VOLUME 17, NO. 2
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
APRIL 2014
See Page 39 for full story. - DFSN photo by Hit the Plug Photographer Jason Boyce
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April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... Leipsic Battles Barn Blaze Leipsic Fire Company was dispatched along with Smyrna and Little Creek for a structure fire in a large non-dwelling on Raymond Neck Road. See story page 8
Firefighter Hurt in Wilmington Fire Wilmington firefighters on the B-Platoon were dispatched to East 4th Street for a report of a building fire. See story page 11
Seaford and Blades Respond to House Fire 87 Command arrived on location to find a large 3 bay garage well involved with fire. See story page 13
Two-Car Fatal MVA Ambulance crews and firefighters arrived to a two-vehicle accident with one vehicle overturned and drivers and passengers trapped. See story page 16
Dover Ice Water Rescue Training Dover FD Members participated in ice water rescue training at Silver Lake. See story page 20
Lou Angeli Remembered Family, friends and members of the fire service gathered to celebrate the life of Lou Angeli, photographer and film maker. See story page 28
An independently owned news and information resource for the dedicated firefighters, emergency medical technicians, auxiliary members, and public safety officials in the State of Delaware. Thanks to the support of its advertisers, this newspaper is distributed free of charge to every fire station in the First State. Published quarterly by Fire News, Inc., 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. Delaware Fire Service News is a registered trademark and all material contained herein is copyrighted. All rights reserved. Frank C. Trotta, Publisher Tim Edwards, Executive Editor Dennis Whittam, Editor Gary Joyce, Asst. Editor Marie Trotta, Vice President, Production/Sales Cliff Chiesa, Art Director Barbara Connolly, Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler Graphic Artists Warren F. Jones and Thomas J. Mitten, Publishers Emeritus Sal DeVivo, Founding Publisher Contributors: Lou Angeli, Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Mike Carroll, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Richard S. Danner, Michele Ehart, Mark Felicetti, Robert Fox, Charles Frampton Jr., Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Joe Hopple, Davis Horack, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Melissa Kiser, Ryan Knowles, Ann Marie Krystopolski, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Harry Miller, Tom Mitten, Joe Mullen, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Christy Paxson, Phil Pennington Sr., Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, Louden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Brian Slattery, Rick Stewart, William Thomas, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Stephanie Wales, Rob Watts, Steve Watson, Paul Watts, Matt Williams ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-687-0343 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $15.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers 1-800-BoardUp..................... 39
Fire News Vacations............. 12
AdvantEdge Healthcare....... 13
Harrisburg Expo.................. 21
Amer. Military Univ.............. 26 House Republican Caucus.... 19 ASI ....................................... 42
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 40 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 40 Delaware Fire Service In Action . .pages 44 & 45 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46
ISG........................................ 23
Atlantic Emergency Solutions Knox...................................... 16 ........................ 5, 24, 25, 31, 47 Minerva Cleaners..................27 Breaking News Network....... 28 NYSAFC................................41 BSK....................................... 15 Patriot Fire ............................ 7 CFSI..................................... 37 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 37 DMMS.................................. 20 Roll N Rack............................11 DPC ............................. 2, 35, 48 Rush Uniforms......................29 DVFA..................................... 20 Spartan ...................................9 ESI........................................ 29 Spicer Mullikin..................... 22 ESIP McNeil & Co. ............. 16 Ultra Bright Lights ...............12
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Budget Cuts Are Never Good
According to the CFSI website, the White House released its 2015 budget proposal, and recommended cuts to key fire service programs. The $3.9 trillion budget, which is an estimated $250 billion increase over the 2014 levels, contains $38.2 billion for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Sound good? Not really, because this is a decrease of approximately $1 billion from the Fiscal Year 2014. The Assistance to Firefighters (FIRE) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs would be reduced by $10 million. I urge you to visit CFSI.org and read about the rest of the cuts that ultimately affect funding to the Volunteer Fire Assistance Program. Thanks to people like Bill Webb, CFSI's Executive Director, CFSI will begin to work with the other national fire service organizations and our friends in government who support the fire service to shield the programs that affect us from budget cuts in 2015. Fortunately Congress, the Senate and the House Appropriations Committees have supported us in the past. We ask that they continue to do so. Recently, the House approved up to $1 billion in loan guarantees for the Ukraine, backing President Obama's request to help the new government. It is nice to support a cause and to help those in need if you can afford to do so. With impending cuts to fire service programs, I think we have to rethink where the money to help others is coming from. Many are still suffering from the after effects of Hurricane Sandy and the wildfires throughout our country. How does the government even think about cutting funds to the fire service when people in our own communities have not recovered from major events that have had such devastating results? I would like to take the time to thank the Congressional Fire Services Institute, their staff and advisory committee for keeping a watchful eye on the potential cuts that directly have an impact on the fire service and homeland security. Remember to support their mission, which is to, “Educate members of Congress about the fire service so that first responders do not stand alone.” Visit their website at www.CFSI.org and read what they are doing to help you, the first responder. One last reminder: the CFSI Dinner and Seminar is on April 30 and May 1, 2014. Someone from your department should think about attending this event. …Dennis
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April 2014
HOSE CONNECTIONS
ResponderSafety Learning Network Has Over 10,000 Students Are You One of Them? by Steve Austin The ResponderSafety Learning Network, part of the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Emergency Responder Safety Institute, has passed the threshold of 10,000 registered students. Are you and your fellow firefighters taking advantage of this free on-line educational tool? In a state where some departments are responding to far more roadway incidents than working structural alarms it is of the utmost importance that roadway incident scene safety be part of every members’ training. Over the years this column has reported the progress of the CVVFA’s 15-year effort to make highway responses safer. Thanks to the hard work of our members under the leadership of President Jim Watson of Delaware City, a major goal was reached with the registration of the 10,000th student. That is a lot of responders … but a lot more are missing out on the best on-line roadway safety training available. Because so many Delaware State Fire Police members are involved with the CVVFA some of our folks mistakenly think that the training the CVVFA provides is for fire police only. Fact, all the modules in the Learning Network are designed to be topical for firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement, towing and recovery and DOT responders. Signing up for the network is easy. Click on ResponderSaf ety.com and access the learning network from the block on the upper left of the home page. Follow the instructions to create a secure account and you are in. The best part is there is no cost. All modules are tested and upon successful completion a certificate may be printed. Upon presentation of the certificate, the Delaware State Fire School will add the completion of each module to a special section of the DSFS permanent record. The network may be accessed from any device that connects to the internet. Most modules are under 30 minutes long and all have reference materials that either streams or downloads right from the leaning network for added background. Should a student stop
a module in mid-stream, when they log back in, the system takes them to the point they stopped rather than to the beginning of the module. In conjunction with the 10,000 student milestone, the CVVFA has created a special option for departments or associations that wish to track the progress of their members for the purpose of continuing education or other training credits. This option “Third Party Reporting” creates a secure portal for any agency which wishes to receive electronic completion records of its members. This option, which is available for a low onetime fee, reduces paperwork and provides instant access to the department. Students who are members of a department that signs up for this feature have the choice to “opt in” if they so desire. A full explanation of this exciting feature may be found on line and a summary is included in this edition of Delaware Fire Service News in the CVVFA Section. Prince Georges County (MD) Fire Department is currently enrolling in the program and many others have expressed interest. The content of the modules are compliant with the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the new Draft NFPA 1091 “Professional Qualifications for Traffic Control Incident Management,” and contains the content of the four-hour National Traffic Incident Management Course now being taught across the nation. Delaware Emergency Responders owe it to themselves to enroll in this free lifesaving training. There is really no good reason not to.
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 5
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921 EMS Funding Task Force: The EMS Task Force has completed its report. It is on the DVFA website at dvfassn.com. The report is well worth reading. It lists 9 findings and 13 recommendations. The DVFA has selected 4 of those recommendations to pursue as legislative items for this year. All help is needed to accomplishing those goals. Those selections are: 1. Adopt Legislation to extend the current ambulance premium tax assessment to all health benefits plans that currently do not pay the assessment. 2. Increase the ambulance premium tax assessment rate from .0015 to .0045. 3. Increase the Grant in Aid appropriations for maintenance to ambulances from $4500.00 per company to $6500.00 per ambulance. 4. Adopt legislation to ensure health insurers raise their “allowable” rates to $450.00. CFSI Dinner: The Congressional Fire Services Institute Annual Dinner is May 1, 2014 at the Washington Hilton in Washington D.C. This is the main fund raising event for this great
DVFA Office
organization. These are the folks who led the mission, for us, to have volunteer firefighter’s exempt from the Affordable Care Act. Registration forms are on the DVFA Website. They need your support to continue their valuable mission. Delaware Volunteer Firefighter Day at Legislative Hall: April 8, 2014 is Delaware Volunteer Firefighter Day at Legislative Hall. All interested firefighters or members of the Auxiliaries are asked to attend and celebrate this special day. We will be meeting with the Governor and the Legislators as well as being invited into both houses of the General Assembly. Show you support and join us on the precedent setting day. Recruitment Open Houses: Sunday, April 13, 2014, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. is Open House for recruiting new member's day. We are asking every volunteer fire station in Delaware to be open for visitors and to help new members with
information about joining. This campaign will be heavily promoted. “Would Moving the Conference to the Beach get more companies to participate?” “Are you in favor of a 3 year rule for first place?” “Should the Conference be moved to October?” “Has the time come to have a parade with no competition?” The Conference Parade Committee has met and is asking for your help by filling out a simple conference questionnaire. They are asking everyone to fill one out. The questionnaire is on the DVFA Website at dvfassn.com. Please take the time to complete the form. The DVFA Office is here to help you with any questions or information you may need. Please contact us if you need our services. Take care and be safe in 2014. Warren Jones wjones@dvfassn.com
Melissa Kiser aa@dvfassn.com
DVFA President
by Richard Toulson, President, DVFA It has been a whirlwind couple of months since the last edition of the DFSN. The General Assembly’s EMS Task Force completed their final report and what a report it was (it can be found on our website). I wanted to personally thank Senator Bruce Ennis, the Chairman of the Task Force and Represent- atives William Carson and Mike Cochran the two cochairs, for all of their work and dedication in leading the task force. I also wanted to thank the five fire service members who spent the last five months working on and with this committee. I especially wanted to thank all of companies who got their financial reports completed on time, and all of those who testified in the public hearing meetings. We know the report is being discussed in the circles of Legislative Hall and are hoping for positive results. Recruitment. Wow, the Recruitment and Retention Committee is generating a lot of good things and good publicity for the Delaware fire service. The “Delaware Volunteer Firefighters, Make a Difference Campaign” is on TV, billboards, radio, in movie theaters, and a host of
other places. The feedback from the internet is tremendous. There’s a special Facebook page just for the campaign and so far it has over 3400 likes. They have also generated quite a number of leads for potential new firefighters. They also have a number of exciting new events planned. Please keep an eye on the Facebook page or website, for all the new events. The addresses are firefighter. delaware.gov for both locations. I wanted to congratulate the three firefighters of the year — Gerald Strother of Blades, Patrick Miller of Indian River and Charles “Buck” Dougherty of Magnolia. They are all scheduled to attend the FDIC in Indianapolis and the other events as part of the program. Last year, we worked hard to lobby the governor and general assembly to add $1 million to our Revolving Loan Fund.This money has been
added to the fund. We need you to use it. It is available for ambulances, fire apparatus, and building renovations. The interest rate is two percent. You need to use these funds when you make a purchase. I have really enjoyed all the banquets and awards dinners I have been invited to. It is certainly a pleasure to see all you members receive those very special awards and honors. Our people are very special and deserve all the accolades we can bestow upon them. Lastly, I wanted to remind everyone about two important dates, April 8, and April 13, 2014. April 8 is Delaware Volunteer Firefighter Day at legislative hall. We are asking you all to come, not only to be honored by the governor and legislators but also to help support this very special day! April 13 is Fire Company Open Houses for new members. We are asking every fire company to be open from noon to 1600 for the public to stop by and learn about joining the volunteer fire service. It has been a pleasure to serve as your president. I look forward to meeting and talking with you during the balance of my term. Thank you for your support and all the great work you do in protecting your communities.
LADVFA Corner
by Saralee Stevens, President LADVFA Okay, enough of this cold weather ... and I am sorry that the groundhog saw his shadow. Hopefully, warmer weather is on its way. By the time you read this column the first day of spring will have arrived. I am so looking forward to the warm sunshine, flowers blooming and getting outside and working in the yard. Well, let’s get on with the show. Congratulations are extended to the Seaford Ladies Auxiliary which celebrated its 79th birthday on February 24, 2014, and to the Carlisle Ladies Auxiliary which celebrated its 50th anniversary on March 15, 2014. There are a lot of good things happening in the upcoming months. First, April 8, is Volunteer Day at Legislative Hall. Ladies Auxiliary members, and first responders are invited to meet the governor and legislators. Let’s have a good showing.
The Sussex County Ladies will hold their Spring Banquet on April 16. This year it will be served by the Roxana Ladies at their fire station. The auxiliary seminar is scheduled for April 27 at the Delaware State Fire School, featuring speaker Susan Detwiler on “Fundraising.” Our auxiliaries hold many successful events and we need to share the ideas which will benefit all. Also on April 27, the Hob Ryan Dinner will be held at the Cheswold Fire Company for those ladies auxiliary members who have 25 years or more of service and for the firefighters that have 40 or more years. Please inform your members that qualify for this honor and have them attend. On May 1, the CFSI dinner will be held in Washington. I look forward to representing the state ladies at this event. The LADVFA Executive Meeting will be held on May 5, at 1930, at the Cheswold Fire
Company.The Selbyville Ladies will be serving dinner starting at 1800. Committees should meet immediately following dinner. In closing, I want to remind those auxiliaries that it is important you get the information necessary to complete the forms for Conference. Please take the time to look at last year’s forms, as they did not change that much, and get them in on time. Until next time, like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 7
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Leipsic Battles Barn Blaze
On February 18, 2014, the Leipsic Fire Company was dispatched along with Smyrna and Little Creek for a structure fire in a large non-dwelling on Raymond Neck Road. Upon arrival, units found a 60 x 100-foot pole barn fully involved with the roof collapsed with exposures to a residence and a 10,000 pound propane tank. Two additional engine and tanker companies were requested to maintain water supply. The scene was placed under control with extensive
overhaul after 30 minutes. The cause of the fire was investigated by the State Fire Marshal's office. Companies responding: Leipsic, Little Creek, Smyrna, Cheswold, Townsend and Odessa. Station cover-ups: Dover, Clayton, and Magnolia. - Submitted by Michael Greco, Leipsic Fire Chief; DFSN photos by Gene Shaner
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Old Construction Hampers Overhaul
Indian River Responds
Recently, Cheswold was alerted for a house fire on New Street. The report of a confirmed fire in a bedroom activated automatic mutual aid from Leipsic (rescue company) and Dover (ladder company). Assistant Chief Whitby arrived to find a two-story house with heavy smoke showing and established command. The various crews on the initial response knocked down the bulk of the fire. Units on scene: Cheswold-Engine 43-2, Engine 43-4, and Engine 43-3, Dover-Ladder 46-2 and Engine 46-3, Leipsic-Rescue 53-6, Smyrna-Engine 44-4, Clayton-Engine 45-4, Hartly-Tanker 51 and Engine 51-3, Little Creek-Engine 54-5 covered Cheswold from the fire scene. - Submitted by Jeff Brown, Fire Chief Cheswold VFC
On February 4, 2014, the Indian River (80), Lewes (82) and Millsboro (83) fire companies were alerted for a working structure fire on Starboard Court in the Pot Nets Bayside development off of Long Neck Road. Emergency response units included: Engine #801 and Rescue 80 from the Oak Orchard facility; Engine #80-3 and Engine #80-5 from the Long Neck facility; Delaware State Fire Police; the Delaware State Police; the Office of the State Fire Marshall; the Sussex County Paramedics; and local emergency medical services provider. - Submitted by Steven C. Deery Jr., Indian River Fire Company, Fire Chief
2-Alarmer Draws a Crowd
On January 27, 2014, Stations 1 and 27 (VHC), 4 and 24 (OFC), 26 (TFC), 29 (Port Penn), 44 (Smyrna), 7, 8, 9 and 10 (Aetna) and NCC Medic 5 were dispatched to a working residential fire in Middletown. Rescue 27 arrived to find a two-story single family dwelling with heavy fire showing and extension into a neighboring residence. The incident was upgraded to a second alarm alerting stations 2 and 12 (Chesapeake City, MD), 3, 6 and 12 (Christiana), 45 (Clayton) and 15 (Delaware City). An exterior attack was made
on the fully involved structure while a quick interior attack initiated on the neighboring residence prevented further fire spread. The fire was quickly brought under control and firefighters remained on scene for several hours performing overhaul. Several other houses received radiant heat damage. The state fire marshals office investigated. Cover up units: Engine 43 (Cheswold), 28-5 (Wilmington Manor), Kent County MD Engine 6-7 and Engine 20-5. - Submitted by Tim Murray, DFSN photos by Amy Murray
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
FF Hurt in Wilmington Fire
Recently, Wilmington firefighters on the B-Platoon were dispatched to East 4th Street for a report of a building fire. Upon arriving, units reported smoke was showing from the two-story apartment building on Allen's Alley off of East Fourth Street. Fire suppression companies began an aggressive interior attack while simultaneously searching the building and apartments for occupants; all occupants had exited. The Incident Commander was Deputy Chief Michael Donohue. One firefighter was transported to Wilmington Hospital with a minor injury sustained while fighting the fire. No civilian injuries were reported. The building sustained fire damage to one apartment unit with smoke damage throughout the building. Five residents were displaced and three received housing and recovery services from the Red Cross. Approximately 27 fire and EMS personnel responded to the fire: Engine 2, Squad Engine 1, Squad Engine 3, Engine 5, Ladder 1, Battalion 2, Battalion 6, Battalion 10, Deputy 2, FM13, Ambulance PA2, Wilmington PD, Wilmington License & Inspection, Delmarva Power, and the Red Cross. - Submitted by Captain Richard S. Danner; DFSN photos by John Randolph
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Trailer Fire in Cranston Hts.
Cranston Heights Fire Company responded to Murray Manor Trailer Park, on Tenth Avenue with a report of bedroom fire. Responding units were R14, 14-2, R23, 30-6, 17-4, Medic 3, A-12, 12-4 and B-2. A Rescue 14 officer upon arrival reporting fire visible, and approximately 10 minutes into the fire an evacuation order was given. - Submitted by Gene Krystopolski
Multiple Companies Battle Snow and Fire
Clayton Fire Company and several other local fire departments responded to a mobile home fire on January 28, 2014. At 2243 just as the snow started covering the road, Clayton Fire Company was dispatched to Clayton Greenspring Road. Clayton Fire Company officials said there was fire in two rooms that crews quickly knocked down. The fire was brought under control in 30 minutes. There were no injuries. They were assisted by: Citizens' Hose Company, Townsend Fire Company, Ambulance 64 from Smyrna, and Kent County paramedics. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
April 2014
Bethel House Fire
On January 22, 2014, the Laurel, Blades, and Seaford Fire Departments were alerted for a house fire in Bethel. Assistant Chief Whaley arrived on scene to find a 2-1/2 story, balloon construction house with fire showing from the C side. First arriving Engine 71-3 advanced a line to the rear of the structure. Engine 814 arrived and advanced a secondary hose line to the division 2 level and began suppression. Engine 81-2 and Tanker 71 arrive and crews assisted with pulling ceilings and a moving a third hose line into the attic. Tower 81 arrived and set up on the D side and crew ventilated the roof and threw ground ladders. Tanker 87 arrived and provided water and additional manpower. The fire is believed to have been started by a heater. Assistant Chief Whaley placed the incident under control at 1925 hours. Last fire units cleared the scene at 2023 hours. Units on scene: Command 81, E-4, E-2, Tower 81, E/T 81-5, E 71-3, E/T 71-2, Rescue 71, E/T 87-9, E 87-3, SCEMS 102, FM 11, FM 16. Special Thanks to Sharptown and Bridgeville Fire Departments for providing cover ups in Laurel and Blades. - Submitted by Dwayne Chaffinch; DFSN photo by Dan Trader from Hit the Plug
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
Seaford and Blades Respond to House Fire
On 2-16-2014 the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department along with the Blades Fire department were alerted for a house fire on Pine St less than a block from fire station 87. Command arrived on location to find a large 3 bay garage well involved with fire. The first 87 engine in put 2 hand lines in service and used one to protect a home that was taking a lot of radiant heat and was showing signs of damage. 71’s engine tanker came in and supplied 87’s engine on scene and 71’s crew assisted with putting the fire out. The building collapsed on three historical vehicles inside the garage. Crews were on scene for nearly an hour and half. The Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the blaze. - DFSN photo by Wayne Barrall photos
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
Vehicle Fire in Indian River
On December 27, 2013, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle fire in the vicinity of Serendipity Restaurant in Oak Orchard. An incident synopsis provided prior to arrival was vehicle fire with exposures to a residential structure. Emergency response units included: Chief 80-15, Engine #80-1 and Rescue 80 from the Oak Orchard facility; Engine #80-3 from the Long Neck facility; as well as the Delaware State Fire Police and the Delaware State Fire Marshal (FM-10). - Submitted by Steven C. Deery Jr, Indian River Fire Company, Fire Chief
April 2014
Vehicle Fire at the Laurel Village Mobile Home Park
- Submitted by Dwayne Chaffinch
Your Horse is Where?
On Valentines Day, the special operations team headquartered at Cheswold was alerted to assist Felton with the rescue of a horse in a swimming pool. The special operations team dispatch also brought Leipsic with an equipment trailer, Hartly with an air unit and Squrt, and members from around the county. After arriving on the scene, one member of the special ops team joined a member of Felton in donning ice rescue suits to enter the frozen pool to calm the animal. A plan was then formulated which involved several steps: 1. Felton would pump the water from the pool to help warm the
horse while the men in the pool would towel the horse dry. 2. The special ops team would build a heavy-duty ramp so the horse could walk out. 3. A large tow truck from Chambers Towing was brought in to lift the horse as a backup plan in case the horse would not use the ramp. The ramp was placed into the drained pool and the horse - apparently not wishing to test the hoist - quickly ran up to safety. - Submitted by Jeff Brown, Fire Chief Cheswold VFC; story by Tucker Dempsey
April 2014
Multiple Sussex Co. Agencies Free Worker Recently, multiple agencies were dispatched to Plantation Drive in the Governor's Grant subdivision in Seaford at about 1045 for a report of construction worker trapped in a collapsed trench. Emergency crews spent nearly two hours stabilizing the trench to prevent further collapse, and then dug by hand, using shovels and a sewer vacuum truck to safely remove the remaining soil so the man could be extricated. The worker was transported by ambulance to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford. More than 50 first responders from across Sussex County responded to the incident. Units from the Sussex County Technical Rescue Team, Blades, Bridgeville and Seaford volunteer fire companies, Seaford Police, Delaware State Police, Sussex County Emergency Medical Services, Sussex County Emergency Operations and Sussex County Environmental Services division responded. - DFSN photo by Wayne Barrall
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15
Vehicle Fire in Dover
On February 7, 2014, the Dover Fire Department was alerted for a vehicle fire with possible exposure at the Royal Farms located on South Dupont Highway. E6 was first on scene under the direction of FF/EMT G. Whitt, and found a vehicle parked in front of the store with its engine compartment fully involved. No exposure issues were present. The crew advanced a 1-3/4 inch attack line from the front bumper and extinguished the fire. The vehicles fuel line ruptured causing a fuel leak and re-ignition of the fire. The crew supplemented their water with AFFF (foam) to extinguish the remaining fire. The gasoline spill was contained. The scene was turned over to the City FMO and DNREC for investigation. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.; DFSN photo by Kerry Widener Welch
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Two-Car Fatal MVA
On February 8, 2014, the Millville, Roxana, Frankford and Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Companies; Sussex County Paramedics; Delaware State Police medical helicopter Trooper 2; and Christiana Care Lifenet 2 medical helicopter were dispatched to an MVA at the intersection of Powell Farm and Burbage Roads. The ambulance crews and firefighters arrived to a two-vehicle accident one of which was overturned. Both vehicles had a driver and passenger trapped. Millville Assistant Chief R.J. Kauffman appointed Fire Lieutenant Craig Temple to oversee the mechanical extrication.
One person was taken to Beebe Medical Center in Lewes by Dagsboro’s B-73. Two were transported to the Christiana Medical Center, one by Trooper 2, and the other by Lifenet 2. The operator of one vehicle did not survive and was turned over to the medical examiner. The scene was turned over to the Delaware State Police for investigation. - Submitted by Bob Powell
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
MVC in Federalsburg Results in Fatality On January 15, 2014, the Federalsburg Fire Department was alerted for an accident on Finchville Road east of town. While en route command was told that three people were trapped in one of the vehicles. Command requested Station 87 Seaford for a rescue truck assist. Eldorado-Brookview fire department also responded. Command arrived to find a T-bone accident. The driver of one car who took a direct impact from the collision was removed from the vehicle in were packaged and transported. The driver later died from the about 10 minutes, as the another crew was working on freeing the injuries received. - DFSN photo by Wayne Barrall front seat passenger. Rescue crews then freed the rear passenger. All
Bus Hits Car, Car Hits House in Dover On March 7, 2014, the Dover Fire Department was alerted for a motor vehicle collision between a bus and a car on N. Governors Avenue. Asst Chief Hall was first on scene in the duty officer vehicle to find a car next to a structure. The vehicle had been struck by a bus then hit a house. The driver of the car was pinned. E6 was first on scene followed shortly by E2. Crews stabilized the vehicle and removed the driver’s side door with rescue tools. The driver was extricated from the vehicle and subsequently transported with two other paassengers to the local Trauma Center for treatment. The City of Dover Inspections Department was called to determine the structural integrity of the residence. The scene was turned over to Dover Police Department for investigation. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.
Clayton Works MVC On February 5, 2014, Station 45, Ambulance 64, KM6, KM5 and Trooper 4 were dispatched for the MVC with a subject not alert at Oak Hill School and Black Stallion Roads. Command 45 with DC Davis arrived to find a DELDOT plow truck on its side in a ditch. Crews from both trucks stabilized the vehicle prior to removing the operator who was transported by D-64 to Smyrna/Clayton Emergency Room. Clayton had 15 members respond. Units responding: Command 45, Rescue 45, Engine 45-4, D-64, KM6, Station 45 Fire Police. - Submitted by Skip Carrow
MVA with Rescue on Shiloh Church Road - Submitted by Dwayne Chaffinch
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
DVFA Firefighter of the Year
Charles “Buck” Dougherty
Gerald Strother
Three lucky firefighters are on their way to FDIC for a free trip. The three firefighters of the Year are Charles “Buck” Dougherty of the Magnolia Fire Company, Patrick Miller of the Indian River Fire Company and Gerald Strother of the Blades Fire Company. They are the first three recipients of this award. This award was made possible the DVFA SAFER Grant. Three more firefighters will be selected in each of the next three years of the grant. In addition to a free trip to FDIC, these three will also receive free tickets to the Congressional Fire Services Institute Annual Dinner, attendance at the DVFA Annual Conference Luncheon at Dover Downs and other accolades. Charles “Buck” Dougherty is the Deputy Chief and Vice President of the Magnolia Fire Company. He will be attending the Hot Training
Patrick Miller
Classes at the FDIC as well as other FDIC events during the entire week. He said he looks forward to the learning experiences he will obtain at FDIC. Patrick Miller is the President of the Indian River Fire Company. Patrick will be attending the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter Day at Legislative Hall on April 8th and then going to FDIC. Patrick said this award is a great idea, it allows those selected to attend the three key events of the DVFA. Gerald Strother is the Vice President of the Blades Fire Company. Gerald is also attending the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter Day at Legislative Hall and then traveling to FDIC. Gerald is also the Blades Fire Company Recruiter and looks forward to helping the DVFA Recruitment and Retention Committee. All three are truly worthy of this recognition. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Two Transported from Rehoboth Beach MVC Rehoboth Beach Firefighters with assistance of one Engine from Millville Fire Company remove victim from MVC on Route 1 at Shuttle Road. Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Fire Company ambulances transported the two patients. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Retired Deputy Director Steve Martin Recieves Recognition Delaware State Fire School Deputy Director Steve Martin retired from the DSFS and was recognized by the Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission at their March 18, 2014 meeting for his many years of service. - Submitted by Mike McMichael
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 19
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
TRAINING
April 2014
Magnolia Hazmat Training
Ice Water Rescue Training for Dover Fire Department
The Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company has been conducting weekly, Tuesday night training sessions that are well-attended by both newer and experienced members. Most recently, the men and women of Station 55 ran through an in-service Hazardous Materials Response session at the Delaware State Fire School in Dover to keep skills sharp. - Submitted by Earle Dempsey
On February 1, 2014, members of the Dover Fire Department participated in ice water rescue training at Silver Lake. Crews were instructed in safety, self-survival, communications, ice water rescue sled equipment and techniques. Members also partook in shore-based and in-water rescue evolutions. - Submitted by Michael J. O'Connor Jr., DFSN photo by FF Sean Byron
April 2014
TRAINING
Ellendale Drills Forcible Entry
On February 17, 2014, the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company held a forcible entry drill. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 21
Hands-On Ice Rescue Training
On February 17, 2014, several firefighters participated in ice rescue training. This was the hands-on portion and final block of the DSFS Ice Rescue class. Everyone that attended every block of the class held over the past few weeks received a certificate of completion from the Delaware State Fire School. - Submitted by Robin Andino, 2nd Assistant Chief, Camden-Wyoming Fire Company
“Knot� Getting Tangled Training a Success On February 20, 2014, several Camden-Wyoming Fire Company probationary members participated in entanglement training held at the firehouse. The prop was built in house and is used to simulate a variety of situations where a firefighter could become entangled in building materials. All participating members did very well. - Submitted by Robin Andino, 2nd Assistant Chief, Camden-Wyoming Fire Company
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Laurel Fire Dept. Holds its Annual Recognition Banquet
On February 8, 2014, the Laurel Fire Department held its annual recognition banquet at the Fire Hall. About 200 people were in attendance for dinner and a program honoring those who have dedicated themselves to serving Laurel and near-by communities. The highlight of the evening was past-President Calvin Hearn being awarded the Firefighter Service Award for 2013. Also, Zac Lecates was named the "Rookie of the Year." Bill Hearn, Calvin Hearn and Elmer Steele were recognized for having 50 years of service. Greg Adkins received his pin for 35 years of service. Keith Lecates and Wendy Lowe were recognized for 25 years of service. Mark Givens and Shawn Kee received pins for five years of service. Jeff Hill was
honored for his years as Chief of the Fire Department. Tim Walker was awarded a white helmet for his past service as a Fire Officer. Top Responders for Fire Scenes during 2013 were: Zac Lecates, Dwayne Groton, Eric Beyer, Richard Wells, Jim Hollis, Matt Hollis, Mark Oliphant, Mark Sheridan, Brandon Givens and Mike Lowe. Top responders for E.M.S. Calls for the year were: Jeff Hill, A.C. Calloway, Zac Lecates, C.J. Dickerson, Mike Lowe, Cory Pheagel, Adam Ryan and Brett Morris. he Fire Department responded to almost 400 fre alarms last year, made almost 1900 EMS calls and spent countless hours active within the community. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DFSN photos by Dan Trader
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company Appreciation Banquet
- Submitted by Lisa Turner, DFSN photos by Dan Trader
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
Fire Service News & Notes
Kent County FF of the Year Award
April 2014
Laurel FD Installs 2014 Officers Administration Officers; (Left to right): Vice President Barry Sullivan, President Bill Hearn, Treasurer George Torbert, Secretary Mike Carroll.
The Welch, Carrow and King families. On February 22, 2014, the Kent County Firefighters Association held its annual banquet at the Felton Fire Company. During the awards portion of the banquet past-Chief/pastPresident Edward Welch of the Harrington Fire Company was given the William R. "Ace" Carrow and Morris W. King Fireman of the Year award for 2013 for Kent County. The officers and members Edward Welch receiving his award. of the Harrington Fire Company would like to congratulate Ed on this award. - Submitted by Earl K. Brode
Line Officers; (Left to right): Truck Captain Dwayne Chaffinch, Engine Captain Dale Brown, 1st Assistant Chief Eric Whaley, Chief Keith LeCates, Deputy Chief Mark Sheridan, 3rd Assistant Chief Tim West, EMS Captain AC Callaway, Engine Captain Brett Morris. Not Pictured: 2nd Assistant Chief Steve Brittingham, Chief Engineer Mark Oliphant. - Submitted by Dwayne Chaffinch
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
Fire Service News & Notes
Lou Angeli Remembered
On January 18, 2014, family, friends and members of the fire service gathered to celebrate the life of Lou Angeli, photographer and film maker. From his early days to the present, Lou’s photos and videos documented the efforts and equipment used to protect and serve the public in the United States and wherever EMS was needed. His talents will surely be missed. -Submitted by Gene Krystopolski
April 2014
Millville Inks Contract for New Ambulances
On March 5, 2014, members of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company signed a contract with Will Black, the Excellence sales rep for Patriot Fire, to purchase two new Freightliner ambulances. These ambulances will replace two older models that were purchased in 2003 and 2005. Millville’s EMS Chief John Watson said the ambulances being replaced collectively had 433,000 miles on them and were generating high maintenance bills. Over the past three years, the Millville Volunteer Fire Company has responded to over 4800 medical emergencies with its ambulances. The expected delivery date will be sometime in early July 2014. Chief Watson stated the Excellence ambulances have excellent safety components built-in to protect the patient, as well as the EMS personnel, which was a major factor in selecting this company. (From left to right): Denis McMahon, MVFCo Secretary; Will Black, Excellance Sales Rep; Clarke Droney, MVFCo President; & MVFCo EMS Chief John Watson. - Submitted by Bob Powell, PIO
Fire Service News & Notes
April 2014
DVFA Recruitment Campaign in Full Swing
“Are you or someone you know interested in joining the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service?” That’s the question the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association’s Recruitment and Retention Committee is hoping to ask every Delaware citizen over the next four years. The recipient of a four-year SAFER grant through FEMA, the DVFA and its committee are working hard to educate the Delaware public on the many first responder functions in the State, add more volunteers to the ranks, and maintain the ones who are already playing the important response role. Through the www.Firefighter.Delaware.gov website, the Facebook page of the same name, and a broad promotional campaign including radio, TV, billboard, and Internet advertising, a critical message is being sent - Delaware's Volunteer Firefighters Make a Difference! The DVFA is excited about the progress and results of the initiative. Be sure to send any friend or family member to Firefighter.Del aware.gov so they too can begin to Make a Difference - just like you! - Submitted by Earle Dempsey, DVFA Recruitment and Retention Committee
RUSH Uniform Inc.
R
Since 1963
Serving Delaware’s Fire Service Community Since 1963, Rush Uniform has aimed to set the highest standards for family-owned businesses. • Fire • Career • Police • School • Clergy • Postal
Edward “Mike” Rush, Jr. Past President, DE State Fire Chiefs’ Assn. 101 Harrison Ave. Wilmington Manor • New Castle, DE 19720 Tel: 302-328-5444 • Fax: 302-328-2911 Email: mrush@rushuniform.com Website: www.rushuniform.com
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29
DCFC Hosts Community Meeting
On March 10, 2014, a Community meeting, emceed by District #15 State Representative Valerie Longhurst was held at the Delaware City Fire Company Hall. With approximately 300 in attendance, Representative Longhurst received written questions from the audience and selected numerous ones for detail explanations from the panel of 20 experts representing state, county and local agencies, including the PBF refinery, Norfolk/Southern Rail Road and our own Deputy Chief Wally Poppe. - Submitted by Mike McMichael
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
Fire Service News & Notes
A New Arrival
Ambulance Chief Annette Whitby is proud to announce the arrival of a new ambulance. The ambulance body was built by the Horton Ambulance Company based on a 2013 Ford F450 chassis. It went into service on January 11, 2014, and has already transported several patients to the hospital. It will be known as A-43 and joins B-43, which remains in service. - Submitted by Jeff Brown, Fire Chief Cheswold VFC, story by Tucker Dempsey
Ambulance Station 64 Installs Officers
On January 18, 2014, American Legion Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service, Station 64, installed its newly elected officers at their annual Awards and Recognition Banquet. This year elected officers are: Russell Stinson, Captain; Sean Martin, 1st Lieutenant; Samantha DiDonato, 2nd Lieutenant; Eric Neeld, 2nd Lieutenant; and Cathy Baker, Secretary. The Volunteer Board of Directors includes Kelly Chillas, Cathy Baker and Chris Manganelli. The officers were sworn in by the immediate past Captain Bob Jones. The top 10 emergency responders were: Eric Neeld, Jessica Evans, Anthony Jones, Samantha DiDonato, Whitney Jones, Sean Martin, Kelly Chillas, Minor Hardin, Cathy Baker, and, Russell Stinson. The top 10 members in volunteer points were: Russell Stinson, Cathy Baker, Minor Hardin, Kelly Chillas, Sean Martin, Whitney Jones, Samantha DiDonato, Anthony Jones, Rita Paxson, and Michael Havel. Chris Manganelli received the Frank Powell Memorial Award for outstanding service to the ambulance station. Minor Hardin received the Driver of The Year Award. Cathy Baker received the EMT/Driver of The Year Award. Russell Stinson received the EMT of The Year Award. Paul Garcia was recognized as the Staff Member of The Year. Many other Station Awards were given out. After all of the awards and recognitions, an evening of fun and fellowship followed. - Submitted by Captain Russell Stinson
April 2014
Grover Adkins Named Sussex Co. FF of the Year At the February 2014 meeting of the Sussex County Volunteer Firefighters Association the annual Firefighter of the Year Ceremony was held. This year’s recipient was Grover Adkins of Delmar. Mr. Adkins has been a member of Delmar Fire Dept. for 35 years. He serves as Chief Engineer being responsible for all maintenance and training. He serves on many committees, has overseen the purchase of two new ambulances that are due to be delivered, along with being a top responder in fire alarms and fire department functions. Last year he made 92 percent of the fire responses to which Delmar responded. The Sussex County Firefighters Association is pleased to honor Mr. Adkins for his accomplishments. (From left): Doug Butler, Firefighter of the Year Committee, Grover Adkins and Association President Jay Jones. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Small Graduates from Anne Arundel Academy On January 17, 2014, Dover Firefighter/EMT Trey Small graduated from the Anne Arundel County Fire Department Academy and is currently employed with them. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor Jr.
Memorial Fire Co. Hosts Fund Raiser On March 5, 2014, the Memorial Volunteer Fire Company hosted a fund raiser at Grottos of Milford. On Community Pizza Night, for each coupon turned in with dinner, a portion of the proceeds were donated to the department. President Bill Warner said he was very happy with the turnout, an estimated 150 people attended, and thanked Grottos for their generosity. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Farmington Donates Truck to TFFF The Farmington Fire Company recently donated their retired 1979 engine to the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund. Farmington has acquired a new engine (47-5), a 2013 Pierce. The former 47-5 left the Farmington Fire Company in a small ceremony attended by company members on February 7, 2014. The officers and members appreciate the many years of service provided by this truck and wish the receiving department many years of success using it. - Submitted by Jon Gallo
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
Fire Service News & Notes
April 2014
Farmington Appreciation Night
On February 15, 2014, the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company held their Annual Appreciation Night. The Appreciation Night Committee put a great deal of work into the event and welcomed nearly all of the active members, numerous guests and spouses to this special night. As part of the evening, multiple members received service awards representing their years of dedication to the company. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Fireman and Firefighter of the Year. Company President Ronnie Vincent presented
the Fireman of the Year to Vice President Ray Dean and Chief Engineer Carl Roork, recognizing their strong commitment to the company, as well as their consistent attendance at alarms and functions. Fire Chief Tom Williams awarded the Firefighter of the Year to Firefighter TJ Greenlee, who was unable to be present and received his award at a later company function. Chief Williams recognized Greenlee for his improvement over the course of the year and his strong work ethic. - Submitted by Jon Gallo
Millville Volunteer Fire Company Houses Engine 84-1
On December 14, 2013, the members of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company, under the direction of Chief Bob Magee, officially housed its newest piece of apparatus. The members did the traditional housing ceremony of pushing Engine 84-1 into the bay it will occupy. Engine 84-1 is a 2013 E-One/Emax Rescue Pumper on a Typhoon series chassis. It carries 1000 gallons of water and is equipped with a 1500 gpm Q-max Hale pump. It has a six-firefighter cab with five SCBA seats. An onboard hydraulic pump was installed to supply the Halmatro rescue tools it carries. It is equipped with pre-connected spreaders and cutters on the officer
side, along with rams and a portable pump. The front bumper contains a preconnected combitool and basic stabilization tools. The officer side of the engine is completely dedicated to rescue, whereas the driver side is committed to engine company ops. On the driver side there is a dedicated RIT compartment, as well. Engine 84-1 holds 1000 feet of 5-inch hose and 600 feet of three inch. It is equipped with twin 200-foot 1-3/4 inch speed lays, a 200 foot 1-3/4 inch front bumper line, a 350 foot 1-3/4 inch rear hose-line, and a 200 foot 2-1/2 inch rear hose. Engine one was sold by Eric Huovinen of Patriot Fire. - Submitted by Bob Powell, PIO
April 2014
NCC*EMS
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33
NCCo Paramedics Promotions
Ten personnel from New Castle County EMS were recognized at the Department of Public Safety Promotional Ceremony held on January 30, 2014. (L to R) Lt. Kelli A. Zullo, P/Sgt. Christopher A. Johnson, P/Sgt. Michael R. Nichols, P/Sgt. David B. Aber, Captain Mark P. Allston, Lt. Mark R. Logemann, P/Sgt. Michael A. McColley, P/Sgt. Beth A. Bratton-Heck, Lt. Martha L. Russ, Lt. Dawn E. Gulezian.
Ten members of the New Castle County Emergency Medical Service were recognized at a Department of Public Safety Promotional Ceremony conducted on January 30, 2014. The event recognized personnel from the Emergency Medical Services Division, Division of Police, and Emergency Communications Division that had been promoted to supervisory or staff positions within their agency. County Executive Thomas P. Gordon and Director of Public Safety Joseph Bryant, Jr., also participated in the ceremony. “This is one of the largest promotional groups in the history of the Emergency Medical Services Division,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. “The promotion of this group is the first step in restoring the EMS Division staff to its authorized levels, and is essential to the proper oversight of the paramedic service and our continuity of operations.” Mark P. Allston was promoted to the rank of EMS Captain. Allston was appointed to New Castle County EMS in October 1991. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and graduated in July 1992. He subsequently held assignments in Field Operations on Medic 1 and Medic 8. In 2003, Allston was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant, where he has held assignments as both a shift commander in the Operations Branch, and Recruitment/Applicant Processing Coordinator in the Administration/Special Operations Branch of the EMS Division. Dawn E. Gulezian was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant. Gulezian was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 1986. She attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and was certified as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1987. She was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004 and served as a Field Training Officer. Lieutenant Gulezian was one of the original paramedics to be promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant in 2005. Kelli A. Zullo was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant. Zullo was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 1992. She attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and was certified as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1993. She served as a Field Training Officer and was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004. She was later promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant in 2005. Lt. Zullo also served as the EMS Division Public Information Officer from 2003 to 2008. Mark R. Logemann was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant. Logemann was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 1995. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program, graduating in 1996. He served as the EMS Division Public Information Officer from 2000 to 2003. Logemann was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004 and served as a Field Training Officer. He was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant in 2009. Martha L. Russ was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant. Russ was appointed to New Castle County EMS as an Emergency Medical
Technician in 1996. She attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and achieved certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1999. She was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004. Russ was promoted to Paramedic Sergeant in 2009. David B. Aber was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant. Aber was appointed to New Castle County EMS in January 2001 following his completion of the paramedic program at the Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. Aber was promoted to the rank of Paramedic First Class in May 2004 and to Paramedic Corporal in June 2007. Aber has served as the EMS Division Training Coordinator for the past two years. Beth A. Bratton-Heck was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant. Bratton-Heck was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 1991. She attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program, graduating in 1992. She was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004. She served as a Field Training Officer and was a member of both the Advanced Life Support (ALS) Bike Team and New Castle County Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team. Christopher A. Johnson was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant. Johnson was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 2002 following his completion of the Delaware Technical and Community College Paramedic Training Program. He was promoted to the rank of Paramedic First Class in 2005 and the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2008. He has served as a Field Training Officer, Assistant Recruiter and member of the New Castle County Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team. Michael A. McColley was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant. McColley was appointed to New Castle County EMS in 1989. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and achieved certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1990. He was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in 2004. He also served as a Field Training Officer. Michael R. Nichols was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant. Nichols was appointed to New Castle County EMS as an Emergency Medical Technician in 1995. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and achieved certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1996. He was selected as one of the first paramedics to be assigned to the New Castle County Police SWAT team, and currently serves as the non-commissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) of the EMS Division’s SWAT medics. Nichols was promoted to Paramedic Corporal in 2004. Above, left to right: Lt. Kelli A. Zullo, P/Sgt. Christopher A. Johnson, P/Sgt. Michael R. Nichols, P/Sgt. David B. Aber, Captain Mark P. Allston, Lt. Mark R. Logemann, P/Sgt. Michael A. McColley, P/Sgt. Beth A. Bratton-Heck, Lt. Martha L. Russ, Lt. Dawn E. Gulezian. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
NCC*EMS
April 2014
NCCo EMS Hosts Second Annual Survivors Reunion
Seven of the survivors that attended the Second Annual Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivors Reunion are pictured with New Castle County EMS Chief Lawrence Tan (far left), and County Executive Thomas Gordon, Chief Administrative Officer David Grimaldi and Director of Public Safety Joseph Bryant, Jr. (far right). The annual Survivors Reunion provides an opportunity to reunite the patients with those that contributed to their successful discharge from the hospital.
On February 28, 2014, the New Castle County Paramedics hosted the Second Annual Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivors Reunion at the county Department of Public Safety Headquarters. The event included cases from January through November 2013 involving an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest that resulted in a successful hospital discharge. The reunion invites the patient an opportunity to return to meet the personnel involved in the response to their incident. “It is our pleasure to recognize the efforts of citizens in our community that stopped to assist a victim, dispatchers that coached the delivery of CPR over the phone, police officers and firefighters that responded and provided CPR or delivered a shock with an automatic external defibrillator, or AED, and the County Paramedics that provided advanced life support care to someone that suffered an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest,” said Chief Lawrence Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. Chief Tan also welcomed some of the patients from 2013 that attended the ceremony.
The Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation was awarded by the Emergency Medical Services Division of the New Castle County Department of Public Safety to uniformed service (EMS, fire service, police and emergency communications) personnel that participated in a pre-hospital sudden cardiac arrest case that resulted in the patient being successfully discharged from the hospital. Successful hospital discharge is achieved when the patient is released with good cerebral performance (CPC 1). Citation recipients must have been personally involved in the delivery of care to the patient as supported by documentation from the case. “We commend the excellent teamwork between the four EMS agencies, twelve fire companies, five police agencies, emergency communications center and 26 citizens that comprise the 179 individuals being recognized today for coming to the aid of someone in need,” stated Chief Tan. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Ms. Sara Johnson is pictured with Chief Lawrence Tan and her co-worker, Ms. Leslie Wells at the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivors Reunion. Johnson collapsed at work on September 23, 2013 and received CPR from Wells in addition to several shocks from an onsite AED. She had pulses restored before transport was initiated from the scene. County Paramedics initiated pre-hospital induced hypothermia during her transport to the hospital.
Dr. Arild Hestvick brought a case of "Lucky SOB" Irish red ale for members of the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company that responded to assist him on January 19, 2013. Dr. Hestvick collapsed at home in sudden cardiac arrest. His wife performed CPR based on instructions she received from the emergency communications center. Hestvick had a return of spontaneous circulation after 29 minutes of intermittent CPR, defibrillation and medication administration and initiation of pre-hospital induced hypothermia. (L to R) Aetna FF/EMT Michael Mareno, Aetna EMT Morgan Cook, Dr. Arild Hestvik, NCC*EMS P/Sgt. Christopher Johnson, Aetna FF/EMT Curtis Gibson and NCC*EMS Paramedic David Buswell. Pictured to left; Personnel from the University of Delaware Police Department, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company of Newark and New Castle County Paramedics stand with Mr. Frank Van Atta (center in plaid shirt) as a summary of the response that occurred on August 25, 2013 are read by S/Lt. Joseph Dudley. Mr. Van Atta collapsed on the North Campus of the University of Delaware and received CPR and two shocks from an AED that eventually restored his pulses. Several of the survivors indicated they were hearing a complete summary of their event for the first time during the reunion.
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
NCC*EMS
April 2014
Kiwanis Recognize Paramedics of the Year
S/Lt. Joseph J. Dudley
Paramedic 1/C Katherine A. Watts
The Kiwanis Club of Wilmington recognized five members of the New Castle County E m e rg e n c y M e d i c a l S e r v i c e a s t h e “Paramedics of the Year” for 2013. Senior Lieutenant Joseph J. Dudley, Paramedic First Class Katherine A. Watts, Paramedic Thomas C. Hobbs, Paramedic Corporal Matthew V. Mitchell and Paramedic William A. Conklin were recognized by the Kiwanis Club during their annual awards dinner on February 19, 2014 at the Hotel DuPont. The New Castle County Paramedics were cited for their February 11, 2013 response to the active shooter incident at the New Castle County Courthouse in Wilmington with multiple patients. S/Lt. Dudley, Paramedic 1/C Watts, Paramedic Hobbs, P/Cpl. Mitchell and Paramedic Conklin were recognized for their successful medical management of a critical incident, through their rapid attention to the needs of the most critically injured patients. Despite the chaos of the scene, the presence of
Paramedic Thomas C. Hobbs
conflicting information and the potential danger of an additional shooter; the paramedics made the decision to move into a potential danger zone and immediately render care. Seven patients were ultimately transported from the scene for further evaluation and treatment. One patient was pronounced dead at the scene. “The honorees worked proficiently and professionally, and placed the welfare of the patients above their own in an effort to render essential medical care during this incident,” stated Chief Lawrence Tan during the ceremony. “Their professionalism and commitment was invaluable to the successful management of this incident.” The award recipients received a certificate from the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington, in addition to a personal letter from United States Senator Thomas R. Carper (D-DE). - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Paramedic Cpl. Matthew V. Mitchell
Paramedic William A. Conklin
Dr. Corballis Honored
Members of the New Castle County EMS Division Honor Guard render honors to Dr. Ben Corballis during services held on December 20, 2013. In the 1970s, Dr. Corballis was one of the founding physicians of what would become the New Castle County Paramedic Service. He would remain a staunch advocate of statewide access to the 911 telephone number, and statewide expansion of paramedic services. Statewide access to pre-hospital advanced life support care was realized with the enactment of the Statewide Paramedic Services Act of 1990. Dr. Corballis was also an honorary member of the Delaware State Ambulance Association. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
April 2014
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
Fire School Does Presentation at State Chief’s
DSFS Hosts “Women in the Fire Service”
At the January 2014 Meeting of the Delaware State Fire Chief’s Association, the Delaware State Fire School’s Tucker Dempsey did a presentation regarding updated information on Fire Attack in follow-up to the recent National Institute of Standards and Technology Study. Information was presented regarding building construction, ventilation and airflow, as well as fire attack. Presentations regarding these topics can be presented for in-service training by contacting the Fire School. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
On March 8, 2014, the Fire School hosted a special seminar, “Women in the Fire Service.” The presenter was Angela Hughes a lieutenant with the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department. Hughes spoke on the history of women in the fire service, the importance of women working together and IWOMEN, a national organization focused on women in the emergency services. This was not a career or volunteer seminar, but an exchange of information and ideas to enhance knowledge, help create a sisterhood, and spark interest in women to advance in the officer ranks. There were 25 people in attendance. Senior Instructor Bill Walton, who was responsible for the program, stated there will be further seminars on the topic based on this one’s success. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
CVVFA
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
By Claudia Garner
CVVFA President’s Message By Jim Watson, Delaware City Fire Company
The ResponderSafety Learning Network hit 10,000 registered users in March. We are excited by the progress. Based on the size of our potential user group, we believe the current enrollment to be a fraction of the audience that we will develop in years to come. Our goal is to have more than 35,000 users by the end of this year and to double that each year after. Thanks to the DHS and FEMA for their support through the Fire Prevention and Firefighter Safety grant program that makes the network possible. In addition we have developed partnerships and received strong support from the United States Fire Administration, US Department of Justice, the Federal Highway Administration and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Other supporters in the private sector including VFIS and Provident are valued partners. We invite other entities to join us in our goal to make the roadways safer for responders. The network has only just begun with its programming and has already delivered close to 15,000 credit hours to first responders. Our audience is made up of firefighters, police, DOT, EMS and towing profession-
als. Thanks to everyone in the Delaware public safety family who have registered. New programs are coming out on a regular basis; programs like emergency lighting and dealing with traffic during vehicle fires, to name a few. Please let your brother and sister first responders know about the ResponderSafety Learning Network. Our goal is to improve safety on the roadways for responders and the public, while reducing congestion that triggers secondary incidents. Many agencies are looking for ways to integrate our network into their training programs. We have developed a solution. Shortly, we will communicate information about our Secondary Reporting System so use of our network for continuing education will be easier for users and agencies to track progress. If you are interested and would like advance information please let us know. Thanks again for your support from all of us at the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association. "On the Highway, we've got your back"
New Year’s Resolutions: Time for a Fresh Look at Operations As early as ancient times, each January people have been making new promises, reaffirming commitments, and welcoming change for the new year. We vow to ourselves to visit family and friends more, give/help our favorite charity, improve our financial situation, lose weight, quit smoking or perhaps travel more. So I ask, have you done the same in your firehouse? Now is the perfect time to take a fresh new look at your department and operations to make this year your best yet. Challenge yourself and your new leadership with the following 10 focus areas for success: 1. Make a list of our successes in 2013, for example: a. Lives & homes saved b. Successful fundraisers c. No apparatus accidents d.Welcomed x-number of new members/recruits e. Welcomed x-number of new officers f. Training numbers were off the charts 2. Make a list of our challenges in 2013, for example: a. Financial situation growing dim b. Failing apparatus c. Member accused of some type of criminal activity d. Turmoil among our membership e. Lack of training throughout the year f. In the media limelight for negative reasons 3. Identify the talents and strong characteristics of your new leadership and try to line them up with the programs/situations you identified in 1 and 2. Those that have interest in these areas could prove to be valuable assets on the team/committee that oversees this. This may vary from your traditional officer task assignments. Seek out their suggestions to create an improvement plan for the challenges and enhancement plan for the successes! 4. Review your policy, procedures, and protocols to ensure they support your successes and protect you in your challenges. Don't be afraid to make change if one is needed! 5. Provide or enhance an environment for a
healthier crew! Heart attacks are the number one killer in this profession, so resolve to take care of their hearts! Perhaps you find some money in the budget to purchase some gym equipment. Another idea would be to work out a membership deal with your local gym in which you purchase six memberships and everyone can share them. Post monthly recipes in your stations and invite others to share their favorite healthy recipes. 6. Build or enhance a working relationship with
your local media outlets so that you can really get the positive PR out in the community. By doing such, departments will gain the respect of the media and be able to use that to your advantage when negative PR comes your way. In relation, do you have a policy in place that addresses situations in which a member has brought negative PR to your department? 7. Develop or enhance a plan to support the families of your dedicated firefighters. Divorce rate among firefighters is three times the general population for obvious reasons such as long hours away from home, delayed emotional reactions from extreme stress and/or a feeling of being second on
the priority list. As a department, plan family nights at the bowling alley, host family meals in the station or sponsor a spouse bus trip to a local attraction. Help the spouses build a network of support where they can help each other celebrate the good times and encourage during the difficult times with people who understand. 8. Develop or enhance a recognition program for on and off the job successes. Whether it's a simple verbal recognition during the monthly meeting or a gift card to a local eatery for a job well done, you will be pleasantly surprised by the response of saying 'thank you for going above and beyond.' 9. Evaluate your social media status and engagement level. We live in a society that is driven by technology and the ability to communicate instantaneously. Become proactive and use the various social media tools to your advantage in promoting, communicating, and supporting your department and the community. Staying ahead and actively engaging in the technology is proven to be successful, but become knowledgeable as transparency has its 'costs.' 10. Once you have established your New Year's Resolutions, share them with everyone in your department. You will only be as successful as your commitment from the membership. Provide opportunity for your firefighters to review and offer feedback in effort to get their buy-in. It's proven that if you have buy-in from your members, the mission gets carried through. Appoint someone from the leadership to provide frequent status reports on where you stand with your new goals. Don't just make the goals and forget about them. Post them where all can see and talk about them monthly or quarterly to ensure everyone is still working toward the established common goal. It's not too late to look at these ten focus areas and create your departments' New Year Resolutions. Just as you conduct after action reviews of major incidents, review 2013 and open your minds to think about how your department can make 2014 the best yet!
April 2014
Cover Story
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 39
House Saved, Garage and Shed Go
On February 25, 2014, the Laurel, Delmar, and Sharptown Fire Departments were alerted for a garage fire on Sharptown Road, just west of town limits. Assistant Chief Steve Brittingham was in the area and advised Sussex dispatch of a working alarm. Engine 81-4 arrived first on scene and the crew pulled two hose lines and started their attack. E/T 1402 arrived next and pulled into the adjacent driveway and pulled an additional hose line. E/T 74-2 arrived
and provided manpower and water supply. Additional units arrived to provide manpower and water. Quick work from firefighters saved the house from becoming involved. The garage and a shed were consumed. Minor exterior damage was done to the house. The fire is under investigation by Fire Marshal's office, and at this time believed to be started by a heat lamp. - Story by Dwayne Chaffinch; DFSN photo by Hit the Plug Photographer Jason Boyce
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
INSTRUCTOR VIDEOS NOW AVAILABLE FOR FDIC 2014: Event to Kick-off with Hands-On Training (H.O.T.) Courses
Some 30,000 firefighters from around the world are expected to attend FDIC 2014 this spring at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, making it the largest FDIC ever held in its 86-year history. Held April 7-12, the six-day event will commence with an intense curriculum of Hands-On Training courses designed to teach skills, techniques and lessons learned in realtime scenarios, giving firefighters the opportunity to apply newly acquired knowledge to real situations. Nearly 2,500 firefighters are expected to participate in the training. “This year’s Hands-On Training (H.O.T.) courses will be taught by some of the most fireground-proven firefighters in North America. Taking the hard-earned lessons of the fireground into the hands of the most passionate and serious training-oriented firefighters, this year’s educational program will be unsurpassed in depth and scope. Firefighters will walk away with critical new skill sets enabling them to work safer, more effectively and more efficiently while learning the techniques necessary to save lives,” said Chief Bobby Halton (ret.), FDIC Education Director and Editor In Chief of Fire Engineering magazine. Several new courses will be offered this year in addition to courses focused on Advanced Vehicle Extrication, Aerial and Tower
Operations, Essentials of Search and Rescue, Fire Department Rescue Operations, Flashover Simulation, Heavy Vehicle Extrication, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Collapse and Void Search Rescue, Live Fire First-Due Tactics and more. The world’s premier fire training conference and exhibition, FDIC also features 150-plus classroom sessions taught by nearly 500 instructors, and 800 exhibiting companies featuring the latest technologies in fire apparatus, equipment and life-saving product advancements. “For 86 years, the leaders of America's fire service have gathered at FDIC. Coming from every type of department, every background and every rank, they all share one common bond - the knowledge that great firefighters and great fire departments are made from an unfaltering commitment to training and drills. At FDIC, they meet unencumbered by any other mission to discuss fire, the most feared threat to Americans today. At FDIC, the issues confronting all firefighters are reviewed and examined, with the sharing of solutions,” continued Halton.
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April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
April 2014
Fire Service News & Notes
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
2014 Joshua M. Freeman Awards
Left to right: Firefighter/EMT Dylan Sharp, Firefighter/EMT Billy Ireland Jr., Paramedic Gabi Evans, Paramedic Dave Hammerer.
Left to right: Paramedic Dave Hammerer, Past-Chief Tommy Bacon, Firefighter/EMT Dylan Sharp, Kalob Rickards, Firefighter/EMT Billy Ireland Jr., Chief Engineer Bill Ireland Sr., Chief Hunter Holland, Paramedic Gabi Evans.
On November 10, 2013 Kalob Rickards was riding a four wheeler near his grandfather’s farm in Frankford, DE, when he lost control and crashed. Kalob, who was not wearing a helmet at the time, suffered head and facial injuries and was transported by private vehicle to Beebe Medical Center. While in route Kalob began to suffer from an altered mental status and his condition began to rapidly deteriorate. He was taken to the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company where he arrived at 1055. Once there, Kalob was assessed by career Firefighter/EMT Dylan Sharp and career Firefighter/EMT Billy Ireland, Jr., who also serves as Assistant Chief with the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company. They immediately recognized that Kalob was suffering from severe bleeding due to an open skull fracture. They began stabilizing Kalob and called for advanced life support from the Sussex County Emergency Medical Services. Within minutes Sussex County Medic Unit 105 arrived with Paramedics Gabi Evans and Dave Hammerer and they initiated advanced life support measures that would prove to be crucial in the outcome of this incident. The aviation medevac unit was grounded
due to weather conditions therefore Kalob was transported by ambulance to Beebe Medical Center by the team of Sharp, Ireland, Evans and Hammerer. By the time they arrived at the hospital Kalob was intubated to sustain life support and he was unconscious and in critical condition. Kalob was stabilized and eventually transported via medevac helicopter to A.I. Dupont Hospital where he remained in a coma for 10 days. Although Kalob continues to undergo outpatient rehabilitation he is allowed to come home to visit his family and friends on the weekends and he is expected to make a complete recovery from his injuries. Kalob is alive today due to the quick and decisive actions of Firefighter/EMTs Sharp and Ireland and Paramedics Evans and Hammerer. Please join us in honoring the 2014 Joshua M. Freeman Firefighters and Paramedics of the Year for the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company and Sussex County Emergency Medical Services. - Submitted by Patrick Quigley
State Fire Chiefs Recognize Dempsey for Service
New Fire Station for Mill Creek
At the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association Meeting held on March 8, 2014, President Joe Morris and Vice President Stephen Maichle made a presentation to Tucker Dempsey for his service in preparing a presentation for the January State Chief's Meeting. Due to an emergency the scheduled speaker was unable to attend the meeting. With about six hours notice Tucker finalized a program regarding fire attack and the effects of the recent NIST report. (Pictured): President Joe Morris, Tucker Dempsey, Stephen Maichle and Fire School Director Biff Newnam. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
The Mill Creek Fire Company (Stations 2 and 21) started official operations from their new facility on December 28, 2013. The new main fire station (21) is located at 3808 Kirkwood Hwy., approximately 500feet east of the fire sta-
tion they occupied for almost 60 years. The 20,800 square foot building will house fire and EMS operations along with offices for both Fire/EMS and administration. The building was constructed by Commonwealth Construction Company of Delaware and designed and engineered by the architectural firm Pacheco Ross Architects P.A. of New York. Financing was provided by Fulton Bank N.A. and the law firm of Young Conaway Stargatt and Taylor, LLP handled all legal matters. Construction started in September 2012 and completed on December 5, 2013. The building has been in the planning stages for over seven years and cost $5,300,000. The building has sleeping quarters for 15 firefighters/EMT's, training/community room that can hold 64 people, large eat-in kitchen/dining area, three drive through bays and two EMS bays, locker rooms and shower facilities, exercise room, mezzanine storage area, decon room, SCBA room, etc. The engine bays have a radiant floor heating system controlled by two high efficiency natural gas boilers. The advanced HVAC systems and lighting control were also designed to control cost to operate the station. The station will house seven fire apparatus and support vehicles and two BLS units. A dedication and open house is being planned for May 2014. For more information and pictures about the new station please visit www.millcreekfireco.org. - Submitted by Jon Stewart
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service in Action
. les Apartment Fire Cranston Hts. Hand ne Krystopolski - Submitted by Ge
Fatal House Fire in Harrington. - Submitted by 2nd Asst. Chief Earl K. Brode and Chad Robinson
Blades. Partial Collapse in Trader n Da by - DFSN photo Photographer - Hit the Plug Fire
MVC with Propan - Submitted by Steve e Leak. Indian River Fire Co n C. Deery Jr, mpany, Fire Chief
On March 3, 2014, Volunteer Hose was alerted to an MVC with rollover at Industrial Drive. - DFSN photo by Amy Murray
Dover Fire Departm ent Kirby and Hollowa responding to the y - Submitted by Mich Restaurant fire. ael J. O’Connor, Jr .
April 2014
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
Delaware Fire Service in Action
ooper 4 ce 64, KM6 and Tr Station 45, Ambulan ley Corner Road for an Al were dispatched to r. MVC with a rollove rroll Ca ike M by - DFSN photo
Residential Blaze in Clela - DFSN photo by Ed nd Hts.. Testa
Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Firefighters responded to this single car MVC. Two patients were transported to the hospital by Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Fire Company ambulances. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Christiana Fire Company responded to an MVC. Engine 12-6 arrived to find one person trapped in a car that was under a tractor-trailer. - Submitted by Don Moorhead
e in Clayton. Quick Respons Skip Carrow - Submitted by
sponded to a r Fire Company re Ellendale Voluntee cident on Benson Road motor vehicle ac . on February 1, 2014 er rn Tu sa Li by ed itt bm - Su
Stations 1 and 27, Stations 4 and 24 we NCC Medic 5, Trooper 4 and re ale ment, with the vehi rted to an MVC w/entrapcle reporte - DFSN photo by Am d to be on fire. y Murray
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
April 2014
Up Close & Personal
Leipsic Battles Barn Blaze Firefighter Tiki Torres and Leipsic Assistant Chief Joey Marker Battle a barn fire on February 18, 2014 - Submitted by Michael Greco, Leipsic Fire Chief; DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Houston Volunteer Fire Company members with their new ambulance. - DFSN photo by Stephanie Wales
Ellendale Drill On January 20, 2014, the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company held a drill at the Morris Early Childhood center. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Fire Marshal’s Report Occupant Critically Injured in Milton Fire
Michael G. Chionchio, Ass’t. State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a house fire in Milton, Delaware on March 15, 2014 that critically injured one occupant. The blaze, reported just after 0330, occurred in the 30000 block of East Mill Run, Overbrook Shores. The Lewes Fire Company arrived on the scene with the home engulfed in flames. One male resident was rushed to Beebe Hospital and later transferred by helicopter to the Crozer Burn Center in Upland, PA. Heavy fire damage is estimated at $300,000. There were no other reported injuries.
Millsboro Funeral Home Heavily Damaged by Fire
Harry R. Miller Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a fire in Millsboro, Delaware that heavily damaged a three story structure operating as Bennie Smith Funeral Home. The blaze occurred in the 200 block of S. Washington Street and was reported at 1325. The Millsboro Volunteer Fire Company, assisted by Georgetown, Indian River and Dagsboro fire companies extinguished the flames. There were no reported injuries. The investigation determined the fire to be accidental in nature and caused by an electrical malfunction in branch circuit wiring located in 1st
floor ceiling area. Total fire damage was estimat- investigated a fire on ed at $350,000. February 20, 2014 in Townsend, Delaware that injured one perFire at Glasgow High School son. Intentionally Set The blaze, reportRobert L. Fox ed just before 0530, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has occurred in the 200 determined that the building fire on February 24, block of Eaton Drive, Frederick Lodge. The Townsend Fire Company 2014 in Newark, DE is arson. The Christiana Fire Company was alerted to a arrived on the scene with a house trailer engulfed fire alarm in the 1900 block of South College in flames. A 56 year old female resident was taken Ave., Glasgow High School shortly after 1030. to the Christiana Care - Middletown Emergency While responding to the scene a Delaware State Center for smoke inhalation. Heavy fire damage Police School Resource Officer reported smoke is estimated at $70,000 which includes exposure coming from the bathroom. The report brought damage to a house trailer next door to the fire extra Fire Department response to the scene for scene. assistance. Upon arrival of the Fire Department $150,000 Damage in Little Creek Fire found smoke conditions inside of the school. State Fire Marshal Deputies were called to the B. Scott Bullock scene. The investigators determined that the fire Deputy State Fire Marshal The Office of the State Fire Marshal investigatoriginated in a second floor bathroom and was caused by an unknown person or persons intention- ed a house fire that occurred on January 30, 2014, ally igniting combustible materials in the bathroom. in Little Creek, DE in Kent County. The fire was No injuries were reported. The schools fire reported by the home’s occupants shortly after alarm activated and notified the students who 1500 in the 400 block of Main St. in Little Creek, were evacuated in an orderly fashion. Damage is east of Dover. The Little Creek Vol. Fire Co. responded to the estimated at approximately $5,000. call and arrived with heavy smoke and flames coming from the two story dwelling. Assistance Townsend House Trailer Fire was requested from several neighboring fire Injures One companies. The fire was placed under control at Michael G. Chionchio 1605 with no injuries reported. Damages are Assistant State Fire Marshal estimated at $150,000. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office