Fire news de fall 2013

VOLUME 15, NO. 5

SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY

FALL 2013

See Page 55 for full story.

-DFSN photo by Lou Angeli

A Publication of

WWW.FIRENEWS .COM

Welcome to the DVFA/ LADVFA Conference see page 8

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3

In this issue...

1 Dead, 1 Injured, 1 FF Injured The Townsend Fire Company was dispatched to a residential fire on Money Road.

See story page 10

Fire at Smyrna’s Fairway Inn Recently, Citizens’ Hose Company of Smyrna was dispatched to an early morning fire at Fairways Inn. See story on page 15

Not a Day for Shovels in Leipsic Citizens’ Hose Company, Station 44 assisted by Tanker Company 53, in Leipsic shoveling grain.

See story page 17

Quick Action in Car Fire Two people and their dog escaped injury when their vehicle caught fire while at a traffic light.

See story page 21

Water, Water Everywhere …

After heavy rains the Dover Fire Department responded to over 15 calls for service.

See story page 35

Flight 93 Memorial Park A Wilmington group traveled to the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County.

See story page 56

PLUS:

Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 NCC*EMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 32-34 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 40 & 52 CVVFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 41-44 Delaware Fire Service In Action . .pages 47 & 48 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 54

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, Dwayne Chaffinch, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Richard S. Danner, Michele Ehart, Mark Felicetti, Robert Fox, Charles Frampton Jr., Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Anthony Goode, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Joe Hopple, David Horack, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Terry Jester, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Melissa Kiser, Ryan Knowles, Ann Marie Krystopolski, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Harry Miller, Tom Mitten, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, New Castle County EMS, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Christy Paxson, Phil Pennington Sr., Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, John Randolph, Todd Reilly, Louden Robertson, Chad Robinson, Penny Rodimak, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Brian Slattery, Rick Stewart, Sussex County EMS, William Thomas, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Stephanie Wales, Steve Watson, Paul Watts, Rob Watts, Matt Williams ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request.

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Index of Advertisers 1-800 Board Up.....................36 AdvantEdge Healthcare........26 Amer. Military Univ...............35 ASI ........................................51 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ................................5, 30, 31, 59 Bay Health.............................23 Breaking News Network........40 CruiseToAnywhere.com....... 39 Delaware House of Representatives Rep. Caucus ... 19 DMMS.................................. 17 DP Fire & Safety................... 15 DPC ....................................2, 60 ESI.........................................16 ESIP McNeil & Co. ............. 14 Fesco Emergency Sales.......... 7 Fire News Vacations............. 14 Fire Research......................... 9 Gennaro................................ 12 International Conference for Fire Executives.....................52

ISG.........................................10 Liberty Artworks................... 37 Loughlin Ladder................... 20 Michael P. Dallessandro.......38 Mid Atlantic Rescue Systems ..11, 27 Minerva Cleaners..................24 Performance Advantage ...... 39 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 18 PNC ...................................... 21 Rep. Larry Mitchell.............. 29 Roll N Rack............................44 Royal Pest..............................22 Rush Uniforms......................46 Spartan .................................13 Sen. Coons ...........................28 Sen. Hall-Long & Ennis ....17 Talleyville.......................................47 The Fire Store..............................25 Thomas Hornung.......................16 Tri-State Battery..........................18 Ultra Bright Lights................20 VFIS......................................22

Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News

From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Are You Ready?

Looking at the calendar I suddenly realized that summer is coming to an end and schools have reopened their doors to welcome back students. Whenever schools reopen, responders must remain alert for changing traffic patterns as you respond to calls. Go slow!

Beware of the student who might be late for school and run out in front of you to catch the bus that is just about to leave without them.

Beware of the driver, who realizes they forgot to pick up their child and in rushing to pick up the kids, cuts in front of you while you are driving the rig to a call. Slow down and be aware that September brings changes in traffic patterns.

September is also the month that you should start to think about your fire safety programs. Are you ready to reach out to your community in October to educate them about fire safety? Now is the time to purchase your coloring books, stickers and hats so that they arrive on time for your program. Have you thought about your program? Is it up to date? Most programs I have participated in are tailored to a community. However it is necessary to think out of the box and ask yourself what needs to be done, if anything, to include education about carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms.

Telling people to change batteries may not be enough. In certain areas, you may have to reach out with a program that involves your junior firefighters to actually help change batteries. Contact your Fire Safety Educators Association to see what they have to offer to enhance your program.

I urge you to check out the U.S. Fire Administration website at www.usfa.fema. gov/citizens/. FEMA has a special page to help you with ideas about fire safety. Have you thought of taking a course to make you a better instructor? Check out www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/nfaonline/browse/fireprev_pe.shtm and enroll in FEMA's Q0118 class. The self-study course for Community Safety Educators is a short, fun, "easy-to-take" webbased course that focuses on how to do a better job of planning, implementing, and evaluating safety programs in your community.

Let’s make the 2013 fire safety education program something that your entire community remembers. Yes, it is time to get ready for fire safety education. …Dennis

Fall 2013

HOSE CONNECTIONS

Conference Venue Change Shows DVFA Can Take Care of Business

by Steve Austin Just weeks after signing a contract to extend the DVFA agreement to host the annual conference at the Sheraton, management announced that the property had been sold to Delaware State University and would cease to be a hotel.

There is a lot to be said about getting notice 15 minutes before the public announcement, as well as the ethics of business people who would sign an extension of a contract only to void it days later.

In these tough economic times one can’t help feeling bad for the dedicated employees of the Sheraton, who for many years worked very hard to make our conferences enjoyable and productive.

In the true spirit of the fire service, our DVFA leadership adapted and overcame with minimum inconvenience to the thousands of our members who participate in the conference in September. Behind the scenes our officers and directors and executive manager moved quickly to make the best of a situation that could have easily become a real cluster. Our conference committee responded and one of our longterm volunteers, DVFA pastPresident Elmer Steele, worked to negotiate a deal with Dover Downs Hotel.

If you have never been involved in planning a major event it is hard to imagine the challenges facing a committee of folks who plan years ahead to ensure our members and guests

have the best possible experience at DVFA events. Around the nation we are known for our organizational skills and our Delaware Fire Service Hospitality. It is a reputation that is earned by the dedication and hard work of everyone on the conference committee. The manner in which these dedicated volunteers worked to correct a situation not of their making is in the finest tradition of the Delaware Fire Service.

All of us are prepared to deal with the unknown. We train for the unexpected and respond to emergencies in a timely and professional manner. It is comforting to know that those virtues are instilled in the members of our Conference Committee who treated the change in business conditions the same way they deal with an emergency call.

There is a reason that the DVFA is considered one of, if not the best run fire association in the country. It is because of our people behind the scenes. Make sure you thank them.

Where Are Your Department’s Photos? & follow us on

Go To FireNews.com and Click on Link

As Delaware Fire Service News celebrates 17 years of publication, we would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories.

Feel free to e-mail your photos to Tim@FireNews.com.

We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us.

Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.”

We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue.

- Ed.

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 5

Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921 Conference 2013: Welcome to Conference 2013 and welcome to Dover Downs. The move to Dover Downs, while hectic, we hope will prove to be exciting, entertaining and enjoyable. There is so much to do at Dover Downs without ever leaving the building. There is the casino and if you are not into gambling, there are 10 places to eat, including world class restaurants. If you just want to sit around and have a drink there are five lounges or bars. If you are staying at the hotel there is an indoor pool, a sauna, a spa and a fitness room.

Conference Events: A lot has changed with the new location, beginning with Meet your Host, which will be in the Fire and Ice Lounge in the casino. The Opening Ceremony on Thursday will feature the usual great honors bestowed on our members and some very special things. The stage will be used, and the DVFA choir will perform on the stage, at the Opening Ceremony, making it a wonderful start to the event. You should plan to be at the Ladies Hall of Recognition Ceremony and see if you can guess the recipients. Just as important, is the Non-heroic Firefighter of the Year. This year’s recipient could be (or is) a man you all know and love. You wouldn’t want to miss his introduction. Lastly, the Opening Ceremony will close with

DVFA Office

a special movie presentation of the Delaware Fire Service. The Memorial Service on Friday will feature the DVFA/LADVFA Choir in a new setting and an expanded “Pipes and Drums” tribute. This conference will be an exciting new adventure with more vendors, restaurants, and some surprises provided by Dover Downs. When enjoying the services of Dover Downs please tell them you are with the DVFA so we receive future discounts.

Dover Downs Capital Club Card. The trick to making your way around Dover Downs is the Capital Club card. With the card you can take advantage of discounts for valet parking, food discounts at the Festival Buffet, and other discounts in the casino and hotel. To get your card, go to the Capital Club on the Casino Floor. Everyone checking in with the DVFA will receive a $25 credit to use in the casino with your Capital Club card.

Apparatus Inventory. According to Delaware Insurance Statue, we are supposed to compile and send to the Insurance Office a listing of all apparatus at each fire station. The forms are on the DVFA website. With the new EMS Task Force these forms could be very important in our quest to find a fixed EMS funding solution. Please go on line, download the forms, fill them out and send them

into the DVFA Office.

SAFER Grant. The new $946,000 SAFER grant the DVFA was awarded went into effect in July. We are in the initial planning phases of getting this grant up and rolling. One of the important facets of the grant is establishing communications with each fire company’s Recruiter or Membership Committee Chairman. We need to know who these folks are and how to contact them. Please send us that information if you have not already done so.

Thank you.

Fire Company Meetings: During the past year and a half we have been visiting every fire company meeting to tell the DVFA story. We have just a few companies left to visit. Please give us a call so we can schedule your meeting. The companies left are: Carlisle, Marydel, South Bowers, Cheswold, Little Creek, Talleyville, Odessa, Port Penn, Aetna, Minquas, Georgetown and Frankford.

DVFA Office: The DVFA office is here to help you with anything we can. If you have an event you want posted on our calendar, let us know. If you have a flyer you need faxed to all the companies, send it to us.

Have a great conference. Take care and be safe!

Warren Jones Melissa Kiser

DVFA President

by Charles H. Boyer, President, DVFA This year and my term as your president are coming to an end, and it has been a really busy one for the DVFA. The legislative session was really full of new items for us and 13 new legislators. The DVFA Officers, the Government Affairs Committee and the Execu-tive Manager should be commended for a great job. While we did not achieve all of our goals we laid the ground work to hopefully achieve them.

Being President of the DVFA has been a great honor for me and I have enjoyed representing you at many events. I wanted to thank you for your hospitality at the many banquets, ladies nights, and other fire company and association events. I sincerely thank you for your kindness.

I have traveled many miles and met many new

faces. I want to personally thank all the members of the Delaware Fire Service for the great job they do, every day, for the citizens of Delaware.

I also wanted to congratulate LADVFA President Penny Rodimak and her officers for a successful year. I really enjoyed working with the ladies during our terms together. I would like to congratulate Chief’s President Glen Gillespie, Fire Police President Dave Snell and EMS President Ed Angwin for their outstanding leadership.

A very special thank you goes out to Elmer Steele, John McKenzie and the entire conference committee, who handled a very tough situation when the Sheraton left us. They had very few weeks to move our conference and get things set up anew. They pulled a rabbit out of the hat and have promised some surprises for you all at Dover Downs.

We have many challenges ahead, with Recruitment and Retention goals and Legislative issues, and more, but I am sure the talented people of the Delaware Fire Service and the DVFA Leadership will be up to those challenges and do their usual great job.

In closing, I wish incoming President Richard Toulson and his officers the best of luck. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your President.

LADVFA Corner

by Penny Rodimak, President LADVFA It has been a long year with all the invitations, dinners, and meetings up and down the state. I have renewed old and made new friendships. This presidency sure has been a learning experience. How was I to handle all that was required of me? One was to relearn to write something for DFSN. I was never a great writer.

When I started this new endeavor, it scared me.

How do you handle that feeling? One needs to know that you are not alone while on your journey. Look behind you and see all who are following and waiting for you to ask for aid or advice.

Some people are very sure of themselves and don’t need help. Me? I am not that way. I always like to know who may offer good advice. Look to the past presidents of the LADVFA, of the three counties, and of each auxiliary. These ladies held their offices with an efficient hand and with pride. They are what help make up part of the LADVFA. What makes up the other part ? Just look to the

other members who have not held any offices in any auxiliary.You’d better believe they can offer assistance. These are the ones that take notes at meetings, listen to you, and watch every movement. They may not be a past-president but they know how to give their opinions and ideas. You may never know when they will take up the cross and run for an office. One needs to be there for them.

Oh! I forgot about some others who are helpful — on the firefighter side. Even though this team fights fires, or rides the ambulances, you can depend on them for advice and assistance, as well.

In the beginning, as President of the Hartly Ladies Auxiliary, I would not ask questions or for help. I figured that the members put me in that office because I knew what to do. Wrong! After a while in office, I learned to ask anyone for their advice and opinions.

I guess what I am saying is don't be afraid to get help or think that you don’t need the help from anyone. We all need to ask. No matter what office anyone holds. In this organization, we are very big fami-

ly and family helps one another.

I pray that when the day comes that I will be able to give good advice to someone when they see the need to ask. May someone out there see their opportunity to run for an office. As you see, there are quite a lot to give a hand. My hand is open to anyone anytime. My congratulations go out to all those who gave me a helping hand.

May all members have the best year they can. To the in coming officers of the DVFAand LADVFA, have a great year and enjoy.

May God’s eyes and ears be upon you and may he guide you on your journey in your Auxiliary.

Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Dover Downs Hotel and Casino 19th Annual Conference Agenda September 9-14, 2013 Saturday, September 7, 2013 0800 - 1600 BLS Games

Delaware State Fire School

Sunday, September 8, 2013 0800 - 1700 Emergency Pediatric Care (EPC) 0800 - 1600 BLS Games (if needed)

Delaware State Fire School Delaware State Fire School

Monday, September 9, 2013 0700 - 0800 Registration/Continental Breakfast 0800 - 1600 EMS CEU Classes 0800 - 1700 EMS Exhibits 0800 - 1230 BLS Games Finals 0800 - 1230 BLS Games Ready room 1830 - 2100 Grant Process Updates seminar 1800 - 1930 Psychological Emergencies (PTSD, Suicide & more)

Ballroom B Ballroom B Ballroom Pre Function Ballroom A Chesapeake Room Chesapeake Room Delaware State Fire School (Jerry Brennan)

Tuesday, September 10, 2013 0700 - 0800 Registration/Continental Breakfast 0800 - 1600 EMS CEU Classes 0800 - 1300 EMS Exhibits 0900 - 1100 Pension Workshop seminar 0900- 1100 Fire Photography seminar 1300- 1500 Workman’s Comp seminar 1300- 1500 Auditor’s seminar 1730 - 1830 Past President’s Reception (Invitation Only) 1830 - 2200 Past Presidents Banquet (Invitation Only) 1830 - 2100 Apparatus Maintenance seminar 1800 - 1930 Considerations for Field Training EMS

Ballroom B Ballroom B Ballroom Pre Function Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Ballroom A Ballroom A Chesapeake Room Delaware State Fire School (Ralph Neil)

Wednesday, September 11, 2013 0700 - 0800 Registration/Continental Breakfast 0800 - 1500 EMS CEU Classes 0800 - 1700 Exhibits 0800 - 1500 DVFA Golf Tournament 0830 - 1400 LADVFA Golf Tournament 0900 - 1100 Legal Issues Facing the Fire Service seminar 0900 - 1100 Dr. Harry Carter seminar 1300 - 1500 DVFA Round Table Discussion seminar 1700 - 1800 Fire Police Past Pres. Reception (Invitation Only) 1800 - 1900 Fire Police Reception 1900 - 2230 Fire Police Association Dinner Meeting 1730 - 1830 Ambulance Association Reception 1830 - 2200 Ambulance Association Dinner Meeting 1930 - 2330 Meet Your Host

Ballroom B Ballroom B Pre Function Area/South Lot Rookery North Golf Club Dover Par 3 Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Chesapeake Room Lobby Bar Ballroom B&C Ballroom B&C Ballroom A Ballroom A Fire & Ice Lounge

Thursday, September 12, 2013 0900 Continental Breakfast 0730 - 1200 DVFA/LADVFA Registration 0800 - 1700 Exhibits 0800 - 1700 H.O.T.S. 0830 - 1030 Joint Opening Ceremonies 1130 - 1430 DVFA Conference Meeting 1215 - 1500 LADVFA Luncheon 1730 - 1730 DVFA/LADVFA Mutual Relief Meeting 1700 - 1800 Fire Chief’s Past Pres. Reception (Invitation Only) 1800 - 2200 Fire Chief’s Association Dinner Meeting 1830 - 2230 LADVFA Hospitality Night

Pre Function Area Chesapeake/Silver Lake Room Pre Function Area/South Lot Delaware State Fire School Ballroom B&C Ballroom C Ballroom A&B Ballroom C Cheswold Fire Hall Cheswold Fire Hall Ballroom A&B

Friday, September 13, 2013 0730 - 0900 Continental Breakfast 0730 - 1130 DVFA Registration 0800 - 1700 Exhibits 0800 - 1700 H.O.T.S. 0800 - 1030 Joint Memorial Service 1030 - 1115 LADVFA Registration 1130 - 1430 LADVFA Meeting 1045 - 1145 Past President’s & VIP Reception (Invitation Only) 1215 - 1500 DVFA Educational Luncheon 1700 - 1800 Joint Installation Ceremonies 1800 - 2100 Immediate Past President’s Reception (Invitation Only) 2030 - 2400 Dance

Pre Function Area Chesapeake Room Pre Function Area/South Lot Delaware State Fire School Ballroom B&C Silver Lake/Ballroom C Ballroom C Lobby Bar Ballroom A&B Ballroom C Ballroom A Ballroom B

Saturday, September 14, 2013 0800 - 0900 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Kent County) 0900 - 1000 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Sussex County) 1000 - 1100 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (New Castle County) 0800 - 1000 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Out of State) 1300 DVFA/LADVFA Conference Parade

Dover High School Dover High School Dover High School Dover High School Downtown Dover

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 9

Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

1 Dead, 1 Injured, 1 FF Injured

On June 29, 2013, shortly before midnight the Townsend Fire Company was dispatched to a residential fire on Money Road. Units arrived at single-story dwelling with heavy fire showing. A second alarm was activated. One resident, who escaped the blaze, was transported to Christiana Hospital in serious condition, a second was reported missing. Command 26 ordered an exterior attack and Tower 27 knocked down the bulk of the fire, allowing for advancement and overhaul. During overhaul, a firefighter was injured when a wall collapsed and trapped him briefly. He was evaluated on scene by EMS and transported to Christiana Hospital in stable con-

dition. Teams working an in-depth secondary search of the residence discovered the body of the missing resident. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated the cause of the blaze.

Assisting Townsend were: Volunteer Hose Co. of Middletown, Odessa Fire Co., Port Penn Fire Co., Delaware City Fire Co., Belvedere Fire Co., Christiana Fire Co. Aetna Fire co., Wilm.

Manor Fire Co., Clayton Fire Co, Citizens Hose Co., American Legion Ambulance, Galena Fire co., Millington Fire Co., Hacks Point Fire Co., Cecilton Fire Co., New Castle County Medics.

- DFSN photos by Michele Ehart and Gene Shaner

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11

Delmar FD/PD Make Save

On August 5, 2013, the Delmar (74), Laurel (81), and Salisbury Station 2 were alerted for a structure fire with a subject trapped.

Deputy 74 (Rementer) arrived on scene and established command.

He and a Delmar PD officer used a ladder to asist a subject down from the second floor. E 74-3 arrived and advanced a hose line into the building. E 81-4 arrived and assisted with a secondary hose line.

Truck 2 arrived and opened up the roof. Truck 74 arrived and set up on the A and B corner. E 81-2 and Rescue 74 provided manpow-

er. Deputy 74 requested additional engines to the scene bringing in Hebron 507 and Gumboro 79-1. Tower 81 arrived and threw ladders to the windows. Firefighters worked for approximately two hours to bring the incident under control. One subject was transported to PRMC with minor injuries. Sharptown and Blades Fire Companies provided stand-by at stations 74 and 81.

- DFSN photos by Billy Adkins, story by Dwayne Chaffinch

Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Harrington Raceway Fire

Shed Fire at Dickerson Farms

On July 29, 2013, Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to a small structure fire at the Harrington Raceway and Casino. It was an exterior fire on the structure.

- DFSN photo by Chad Robinson

On July 17, 2013, Volunteer Hose was alerted to an unknown type of fire in the Dickerson Farms development. First units arrived to find a shed engulfed in flames along with some shrubbery. The fire was quickly extinguished and the situation was placed under control and the units returned to their stations.

- DFSN story courtesy of Volunteer Hose Company

Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

11 Puppies Saved in Middletown

At 1751 on July 18, 2013, the Volunteer Hose Company, Odessa Fire Company and Townsend Fire Company were alerted to a residential fire on Cole Boulevard in Middletown. Upon arrival 27-8 gave a report of multi-family dwelling with heavy fire showing from the C side. Handlines were advanced from the rear of the structure and the front door and a good stop of the fire was completed. Rescue 24 crew performed ventilation. Search of the building and the attached units found 11 puppies that were removed and returned to the owners. Despite the extreme outside temperature the members of all fire companies did a good job of preventing the fire from advancing to other units. Mutual aid and support came from: Middletown Police Department, Town of Middletown Utility department, Units 27-8, Tower 27, Rescue 27, 27-5, 27-3, 1-6, A-27, U 27, Rescue 24, 26-2, B-15, 15-5, 29-6, B-6, A-10, Medic 5, medic 6, Galena Engine 3, FM-18, FM22, MPD. - DFSN photo by Amy Murray; story courtesy of Volunteer Hose Company

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15

Fire at Smyrna’s Fairway Inn

Recently, Citizens’ Hose Company of Smyrna was dispatched to an early morning fire at Fairways Inn just south of Smyrna. The cause of the fire is under investigation with the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Smyrna was assisted by Leipsic and Cheswold Fire Companies.

- DFSN photos by Gene Shaner

DP Fire & Safety Inc. Supplying the fire service since 1984

Office: 302-994-8866 • Fax: 302-994-8229 Contact your salesman today: Delaware and Lower Eastern Shore Maryland, ask for Dave Pruitt or Ted Price. Pennsylvania and Northern Maryland, ask for Andrew Vattilana.

Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

7 FDs Respond to Dupont Highway Blaze

On August 7, 2013, at 0221, Harrington, Houston and Felton Fire Frederica and Greenwood responded. Carlisle Fire Company Companies were dispatched to a working structure fire on South provided a standby for Station 50.

- DFSN photo by Chad Robinson Dupont Highway. Assistance was later requested and Farmington,

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17

Not a Day for Shovels in Leipsic

On June 30, 2013, Citizens’ Hose Company, Station 44 assisted by Tanker Company 53, in Leipsic took turns working though a very humid day shoveling grain from under a dryer located off Route 9 and Fleming Landing.

- DFSN photos by Gene Shaner

Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Quick Work at Rehoboth Beach Blaze

12,000 Gallons Fail to Douse Hay Bale Fire

On June 23, 2013, at 0035, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a house fire on Norwood Street in West Rehoboth. The fire was contained to the outside of the structure and extinguished by Rehoboth Beach firefighters. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated the incident.

- DFSN photo by Warren Jones

Station 75 and Command 75 responded to a field fire on July 26, 2013, at 0153. B75 arrived on scene, and reported fully involved hay bales on fire in the middle of field. Memorial (Sta. 89) and Milton (Sta. 85) assisted at the scene and Georgetown (Sta. 77) assisted at the station. After several hours and 12,000 gallons of water, Command 75 gave orders to let it burn. DNREC was on scene with DEL-DOT. - DFSN photo by Lisa Turner

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 19

Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Fatal Fire in West Bay

On July 27, 2013, at 0858, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a reported working house fire with possible subject trapped in the 34000 block North Drive, in the development of West Bay, off of Camp Arrowhead Road. The Lewes Fire Company, Indian River Fire Company and Sussex County EMS were also dispatched to assist. A male subject, was found by Rehoboth Beach and Lewes firefighters in a side bedroom. The was removed and transported to Beebe Hospital by Rehoboth Beach Fire Company EMS and Sussex County Paramedics. Delaware State Troopers and neighbors tried unsuccessfully to rescue the victim but were driven back by the heat and smoke. Also, two dogs were found dead in the residence. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Fatal Investigation Team is investigating the incident. The Bethany Beach Fire Company covered the Rehoboth Beach district during the alarm.

- DFSN photos by Patrick Miller and Rehoboth Beach Fire Company, - submitted by Warren Jones

LIGHTS YOU CAN SEE, LIGHTS YOU CAN AFFORD

www.UltraBrightLightz.com 1-888-562-5125

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 21

2 + Dog Escape from MVC

Two people and their dog escaped injury when their vehicle caught fire while at a traffic light on southbound 13 on August 9, 2013. Firefighters from Townsend Fire Company arrived to heavy fire from the vehicle. The occupants were alerted to the fire by a motorist who pulled beside them at the red light and reported smoke from the car's underside. Within minutes flames were evident and the occupants vacated the vehicle. The fire was thought to be caused by an electrical problem.

- DFSN photos by Michele Ehart

Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News

Rollover at Blackbird Creek

Upon arrival of Townsend Fire Company, one person was found still seat belted and suspended upside down on July 17, 2013, as a result of an accident on Route 1 southbound at Blackbird Creek. The person was quickly extricated and transported to Christiana Hospital in stable condition. Witnesses on scene say the vehicle lost control and rolled several times before coming to a stop on its roof. State Police investigated the incident.

- DFSN photos by Michele Ehart

Fall 2013

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23

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Delaware Fire Service News, Page 25

MVC on Patriots Way Requires Extrication

Millsboro firefighters responded to an MVC on Patriots Way. The patient was extricated and transported via helicopter.

- DFSN photos by Larry Gum

Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Difficult Save by Townsend

On August 23, 2013, firefighters from Townsend Fire Company responded to this accident with the assistance of Middletown Fire arrived at a single-vehicle accident on Blackbird Landing Road to Company, and New Castle County Medics. Delaware State Police find one person trapped in the vehicle lodged in the trees. The per- investigated the cause. son was transported to Christiana hospital by Trooper 4 in serious - DFSN photo by Michele Ehart condition after a lengthy and difficult extrication. Firefighters

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27

MVC in Middletown Village

On August 11, 2013, Volunteer Hose Company responded to an control and units returned to the station.

- DFSN photo and story courtesy of Volunteer Hose Company MVC in Middletown Village. Units arrived to find a single vehicle had left the roadway and hit a pole. The incident was placed under

Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Car vs Motor Home in Rehoboth Beach

On June 22, 2013, at 1826, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire fighters and transported to Beebe Medical Center. Northbound Company and the Sussex County EMS were dispatched to a motor Route 1 was closed for about an hour and rerouted by Rehoboth vehicle collision on Coastal Highway. Upon arrival a subject was Beach Fire Police. Delaware State Police investigated the incident.

- DFSN photo by Warren Jones trapped in the vehicle, which was partially lodged under a parked motor home. The subject was extricated by Rehoboth Beach fire-

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29

7 Injured in Rte 24 Head-On

On June 15, 2013, at 0015, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company Apparatus Quint 86, under command of Chief Harry Miller, was returning from a call on Coastal Highway when they came across a serious head-on motor vehicle collision on Route 24, the John J. Williams Highway, in the vicinity of the Lewes/Rehoboth Fire Station 3. Extrication was executed by the Rehoboth Beach and Lewes firefighters. Seven people were injured and transported by Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Millsboro Fire Companies and Mid-Sussex Rescue Ambulances to various hospitals in Sussex County. Sussex County EMS was also on the scene administering to patients. Delaware State Police investigated the crash. Route 24 was closed down for almost two hours by Rehoboth Beach Fire Company Fire Police.

- DFSN photo by Warren Jones

Heavy Rain Hampers Millsboro Response

Millsboro firefighters responded to an MVC with rollover on Gravel Hill Road. The extrication took place during a heavy rain.

- DFSN photo by Larry Gum

Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News

NCC*EMS

Fall 2013

One Medevac’d at Silverside MVC On July 12, 2013, New Castle County Paramedics provided care to a patient trapped in their vehicle during an early morning crash at the intersection of Silverside Road and Marsh Road. Fire company personnel extricated the patient during a 25 minute rescue operation. The patient was transported by state police helicopter to the Christiana Hospital. New Castle County Paramedics activated a "trauma alert" for the patient from the scene.

- Submitted by New Castle County EMS

FFs Rehabbed at Market St. Blaze On July 22, 2013, New Castle County Paramedics responded to a working house fire in the 2100 block of North Market Street in Wilmington. The Wilmington Fire Department struck a second alarm after arriving on scene and reporting smoke showing from the structure. County paramedics provided medical support to the firefighters and coordinated rehab operations at the scene.

- Submitted by New Castle County EMS

NCC*EMS

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33

NCCo EMS Accepting Applications for Paramedic Training The New Castle County Government is accepting applications for entry-level paramedic candidates to be enrolled in a paramedic training program. The county Office of Human Resources will be accepting applications both online (www.nccde.org/hr) or via printed applications at the New Castle County Government Center until October 7, 2013. The selected candidates will be hired by New Castle County and enrolled in the paramedic training program. Selected individuals will be required to sign a fiveyear service obligation contract.

Potential applicants are required to have at least three (3) years of experience in the operation of automotive equipment and possession of a high school diploma or GED. New Castle County will be conducting information sessions to provide an overview of the steps in the selection process and answer questions regarding paramedic training. Successful candidates will be hired by New Castle County and entered in a paramedic training program where they must maintain passing grades, remain enrolled and achieve certifications both as a Nationally Registered and Delaware paramedic.

Interested persons may contact Mr. John Troy in the Office of Human Resources at 302-395-5161, or visit the New Castle County EMS website at www.nccde.org/ems.

- Submitted by New Castle County EMS

NCCo Paramedics Appoint EMS Chaplain The New Castle County Paramedics have appointed the first chaplain to the Emergency Medical Services Division. Reverend John C. McVoy, III, of the Diocese of Wilmington has been designated as the Chaplain for the New Castle County Paramedics. Father McVoy is a hospital chaplain at Christiana Care Health Systems, and resides at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Wilmington.

He is also the assistant pastor at St. Patrick’s and St. Mary’s Church, also in Wilmington.

“The types of situations encountered by the paramedics on a daily basis would be shocking to most citizens,” said County Executive Thomas P. Gordon. “It’s great that they will have a chaplain to assist in monitoring and caring for the well-being of our paramedics.”

The designation of chaplain is an honorary role within the Emergency Medical Services Division, similar to the chaplain assigned to the New Castle County Police, and is not a salaried position within the Department of Public Safety. The EMS chaplain provides a broad and diverse range of services including care and support to staff regarding critical incidents, stress management, loss/grief and other personal or professional concerns brought forward by the paramedics.

“We are grateful to have found someone with Father McVoy's experience and background that

was willing to assist our personnel,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. “He is a welcome addition to support our field paramedics, whether the assistance needed is for professional or personal reasons.”

New Castle County EMS is a career paramedic service within the county Department of Public Safety that is nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance

Services (CAAS). The agency has an authorized staff of 117 personnel, which includes 95 paramedics and eight field supervisors.

In the photo are newly designated EMS Chaplain Fr. John C. McVoy, III with the New Castle County EMS senior staff. (L to R): Assistant Chief Richard Krett, Fr. John McVoy, Chief Lawrence Tan and Assistant Chief Daniel Seador.

- Submitted by New Castle County EMS

Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News

NCC*EMS

Fall 2013

NCCo Medics Recognized by Kiwanis

Five New Castle County Paramedics were recognized as the Kiwanis Club Paramedics of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2013 during an awards luncheon at the Hotel DuPont on July 17, 2013. The Emergency Medical Services Division personnel (left to right, above: Paramedic William Conklin, Paramedic Thomas Hobbs, S/Lt. Joseph Dudley and Paramedic First Class Katherine Watts. Not pictured: Paramedic Corporal Matthew Mitchell) were commended for their actions during an active shooter incident at the New Castle County Courthouse in February.

On the morning of February 11, 2013, New Castle County Paramedics were dispatched to the New Castle County Courthouse at 550 N. King Street for a report of a shooting with multiple victims. Medic 1 with Paramedic First Class Katherine Watts and Paramedic William Conklin and Medic 8 with Paramedic First Class Matthew Mitchell and Paramedic Thomas Hobbs were dispatched on the initial response. EMS Senior Lieutenant Joseph Dudley, as the shift command, also responded to the incident.

Arriving paramedics encountered a dynamic situation, as evidenced by a stream of ongoing and sometimes conflicting information from the emergency communications center.

Varying information regarding the location and number of patients, the location and status of the shooter, and even the potential for additional shooters at the scene was being transmitted by the communications center to the on-scene personnel.

Medic 8 was first to arrive on scene, followed shortly by Medic 1 and S/Lt. Dudley.

The arriving paramedics decided to enter the lobby area of the courthouse where the shooting had taken place, and immediately encountered two patients with multiple gunshot wounds in traumatic cardiac arrest. A third patient was located at the side of the lobby area and was determined to be deceased.

The first arriving paramedic crew transmitted a radio report that indicated the preliminary number and severity of the patients encountered by the crew. The report was updated a short time later with the presence of three additional patients that had been wounded in the exchange of gunfire.

The New Castle County Paramedics were recognized for their contributions to the successful medical management of the critical incident through their quick attention to the needs of the most critically injured patients.

Despite the chaos of the scene, the presence of conflicting information and the potential danger of an additional shooter; the paramedics made the decision to move into a potential danger zone to begin rendering care. The early radio report by the first arriving crew provided essential information for the EMS commander, permitting him to evaluate the need for additional medical resources, and to begin the notification of the receiving hospital. Seven patients were ultimately transported from the scene to the Christiana Hospital.

“All of the paramedics and EMS personnel at the scene worked proficiently and professionally during this event,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. “Their professional commitment was invaluable to the successful management of this incident.”

- Submitted by New Castle County EMS

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35

Water, Water Everywhere ‌

On July 12, 2013, a slow-moving weather front dumped several period. Most calls were for water rescues of subjects submerged in inches of rain on the Delmarva Peninsula. The Dover Fire their vehicle. - DFSN photos by Bert Gartrell and Stephanie Wales; story submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr. Department responded to over 15 calls for service in a two-hour

Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Busy — and Wet — Day in Bethany Beach

On July 12, 2013, a surprise rain storm that dumped between seven and nine inches of rain in less than 12 hours caused a busy day for the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company. With ground already saturated from a very wet summer, the water quickly overcame storm drainage. Hollywood Street at headquarters flooded, backing up into the east bays and up the front ramp. Equipment was moved to the front ramp and the five-ton Army truck, 70-9 (purchased for super storm Sandy), was made ready for service. Multiple calls were

handled, ranging from a transformer fire, to a child locked in an automobile and a vehicle crash. Unit 70-9 was also used at the Villas in Bethany West to remove flood victims. During downtime the water rescue crews used “Lake Hollywood” for some training time.

As the rain subsided, firefighters opened drains on Hollywood Street and hosed off the firehouse bringing the station back to normal around 2000.

- DFSN photos by Joe Hopple

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37

Teach Your Children Well ‌

On August 1, 2013, Volunteer Hose went to St. Anne’s School for a fire prevention presentation. Students were shown what gear looked like and what fire fighters looked like in the event they were encountered during an emergency.

Children tried on gear and had several discussions of what to do and what not to do in the event of an emergency.

- DFSN photos by Amy Murray

Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Volunteer Hose Holds Open House

On August 17, 2013, the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown held their annual open house during the Middletown Olde Tyme Peach Festival. The firehouse was open for the community to walk through and see several different displays, including appara-

tus from Belvedere, Odessa and Townsend Fire Companies. In addition there were displays from Delaware State Fire School, Middletown Police Department and Chesapeake Utilities. A good time was had by all.

- DFSN photos by Amy Murray; story courtesy of Volunteer Hose Company

Fall 2013

Come by and see our DVFA Conference booth at Dover Downs

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 39

Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News

TRAINING

Millsboro firefighters take part in dry hydrant draft training at Betts Pond, Millsboro.

- DFSN photos by Larry Gum

Fall 2013

CVVFA

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41

By Claudia Garner

CVVFA Annual Convention

(Above) Duty crews from the Shippensburg, PA, Fire Department pose with the Fire House Dolls at the CVVFA Convention Picnic.

(Right) Caden Garner of Shippensburg, PA, and the Fire House Dolls at the CVVFA Annual Banquet. Caden was given the honor of closing the Convention by President Jim Watson.

Feds, CVVFA National Traffic Incident Training The Federal Highway Administration has entered into an agreement with the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association to provide outreach to the fire service for the new National Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Course that is being rolled out across the country.

The course now in the “Train the Trainer” stage provides multi-discipline training for

responders at no cost. The CVVFA will provide advice to FHWA on how to encourage fire department participation in the classes.

Chief Rich Marinucci, a CVVFA Member and a past-President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, will be the point person for the association on the project.

The National TIM course teaches responder safety, safe quick clearance and interop-

erable communications. These are elements of the National Unified Goal for Traffic Incident Management.

It is the goal of the CVVFA to encourage all members of the fire and EMS to enroll in the TIM course. The course is being taught by leading instructors across the country. A number of the instructors are CVVFA members.

USFA and DoJ Contract with CVVFA

Dr. Harry Carter ResponderSafety.com Editor

The USFA and the Department of Justice have contracted with the CVVFA to maintain and enhance outreach for fire, EMS and law enforcement through the ResponderSafety.com website.

The site, launched in 2001, is the most comprehensive web portal for all things concerning highway incident scene safety and traffic incident management.

The site’s executive editor is Chief Harry Carter. The chief researcher is Howard Cohen a member of Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company. Other experts from transportation,

towing and recovery, and law enforcement contribute their skills.

Respondersafety.com updates every day with a complete list of all knownm “struck by” incidents in the United States. The site has free downloads, SOPs and training programs along with many downloadable videos. Respondersafety.com also has companion Facebook, YouTube and Twitter pages. Readers can receive e-mail updates from the site by registering their name and e-mail address. The USFA has provided support for the site since the day it launched.

CVVFA

Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

By Claudia Garner

CVVFA 112th Convention Parade Prize Winners Shippensburg, PA -- August 3, 2013 Best Appearing Uniformed Fire Company with Music with 25 or more members: 1st Place Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Cumberland Valley Hose Company of Shippensburg, PA): Citizens Fire Company No. 1 of Newport, PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Steve and Peg Flickinger of Newport, Pa. in memory of Past President H.M. Flickinger, Jr.): West End Fire and Rescue of Shippensburg PA Best Appearing Engine 1250 GPM or Larger: 1st Place David O. Gabler & Harold E. Snyder Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by Franklin Fire Company #4 of Chambersburg, PA): Duncannon Fire Company of Duncannon PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by First Hose Company of Hagerstown, MD): Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway MD Best Appearing Engine under 1250 GPM: 1st Place Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Provident Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, PA): Hancock Fire Company of Hancock MD 2nd Place Plaque and $40.00 (Sponsored by the Mont Alto Volunteer Fire Company of Mont Alto, PA): No Winner Best Appearing Aerial Device: 1st Place Robert J. Gerhart Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by Junior Hose and Truck Company #2 of Chambersburg, PA): Cumberland Valley Hose Company No. 2 of Shippensburg PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Mason Dixon Fire Store of Hagerstown, MD): McConnellsburg Fire Co. of McConnellsburg PA Best Appearing Engine/Tanker: 1st Place Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by Perry House of Awards, Newport, PA): Duncannon Fire Company of Duncannon PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Rescue Hose Company #1 of Greencastle, PA): Fannett Metal Fire Company of Fannett Metal PA President's Award: 1st Place Chief Elmer J Ellison Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Aetna Hose, Hook, and Ladder Company of Newark, DE): Cumberland Valley Hose Company #2 of Shippensburg PA 2nd Place Guy M. Flory Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Vigilant Hose Company #1 of Shippensburg, PA): Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Co. of Newark DE Best Appearing Rescue or Squad: 1st Place William E. Haug Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Mill Creek Fire Company of Wilmington, DE): Vigilant Hose Company of Emmitsburg MD 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Dave's Truck Repair of Chambersburg, PA): Mercersburg Fire Company of Mercersburg PA Best Appearing Ambulance/ Basic Life Support: 1st Place Merle Kauffman Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Goodwill Steam Engine and Hose Company #3 of Chambersburg, PA): South Mountain Fire Department of Fayetteville PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by the Mont Alto Ambulance Squad of Mont Alto, PA): No Winner Best Appearing Ambulance/Advanced Life Support: 1st Place James McGowan Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Newport Ambulance League of Newport, DE): No Winner 2nd Place Louise Fahreney Memorial Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway, MD): No Winner Best Appearing Special Unit-Air, Wagon, Traffic, Utility, Command: 1st Place Secretary Emeritus Louise Dell Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Active Members of the CVVFA): Shartlesville Community Fire Company of Shartlesville PA

2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Past President Walter Robertson of Stuarts Draft, VA): New Kingstown Fire Co. of New Kingstown PA Best Appearing Brush Truck: 1st Place Barbara L. Fischer & Dennis P. Deshong Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Company of McConnellsburg, PA): McConnellsburg Fire Co. of McConnellsburg PA 2nd Place Past President Charles D. Baker Memorial Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Past President Wayne Baker): Upper Frankford Fire Co. of Newville PA Best Marked Fire Apparatus for Highway Incident Scene Safety: 1st Place Emergency Responder Safety Institute Plaque and $50 (Sponsored

by Chief Crawford G. Wiestling of Prior Lake, MN): Duncannon Fire Co. of Duncannon PA Best Marked Ambulance for Highway Safety Incident Scene Safety: 1st Place Deputy Chief Mark Reid Sr. Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored

by Chief Stephen M. Reid of Myersville, MD): South Mountain Fire Co. of Fayetteville PA Best Appearing Antique Hand Drawn Pumper or Hose Reed: 1st Place Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by Past President Steve Austin of Newark, DE): Friendship Hose Co. No. 1 of Newville PA 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Past President George Dove of Winchester, VA): Vigilant Fire Co. of Slatington PA Best Appearing Antique Fire Engine Driven in the Parade: 1st Place Reverend Dr. David R. Hoover & Past President Martin I. Mowen Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Company of McConnellsburg, PA): Independent Jr. Fire Co. No. 3 of Hagerstown MD 2nd Place Plaque and $40 (Sponsored by Past President Robert P. Cumberland Jr. of Westminster, MD): Mike Whitzel of Dillsburg PA Fire Dept. Owned Apparatus that Traveled the Farthest Distance: 1st Place Robert K. Wright Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by the Citizens Fire Company #1 of Newport, PA): Delaware City Fire Co. of Delaware City DE Best Appearing Privately Owned Fire Dept. Antique Apparatus: 1st Place Past President Raymond T. Kimble Memorial Plaque and $50 (Sponsored by Emergency Vehicle Specialist of Hagerstown, MD): Steve Austin of Newark DE

1.

2.

3.

4.

Judges Awards: Vigilant Fire Company of Slatington PA $40 Ivan Bretzman Family of Mt. Holly Springs PA $40 Cumberland County Fire Safety Trailer of Carlisle PA $40 South Newton Township Fire Company of Walnut Bottom PA $40

CVVFA

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43

By Claudia Garner

ResponderSafety Learning Network Funded Through Grant for 2013 The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association received a FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant to continue building and delivering its free on-line learning network providing roadway incident safety training to responders.

The ResponderSafety Learning Network may be accessed from any device that can be connected to the Internet. Modules are about one-half hour long and are tested. Students may print a certificate upon successful completion of the course. Records are maintained securely and are password protected. Almost 7,000 students have taken the opportunity to register for the network. There is no cost.

The CVVFA is working with several jurisdictions in order to provide CEUs to students who need them for recertification. The modules are high quality and are designed for adult education. If a student has to stop the module for any reason the system will return to the point where it stopped when the student logs back on, thus saving time.

At least seven modules are available, with more on the way, thanks to the grant. Experts in many areas of roadway response contribute their knowledge to the network. Access the ResponderSafety Learning Network at www.respondersafety.com.

Jim Watson of Delaware City Fire Company Elected CVVFA President

The Reputation Management Movement

By Candice McDonald, M.A. In addition to the typical media outlets reporting the damaging behavior of firefighters, the smartphone has created an era of citizen journalism.

One person now has the ability to have a dialogue with millions of people through social media. Honest mistakes and deviant behaviors are being shared worldwide with just one click. In response, the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Fireman’s Association (CVVFA) continues to take an active role in promoting a positive reputation management movement among the fire service.

In October, two members of CVVFA’s reputation management team will travel to Sissonville, West Virginia, to facilitate a full-day Reputation Management workshop at the 2nd Annual Fire Officer Training Weekend.

Attendees will spend the day participating in activities designed to prevent, address, and recover from damaging behaviors that threaten the integrity of the fire service.

In addition to providing in-person trainings, CVVFA is also expanding the FirefighterBehavior.com website to serve as a resource in addressing common behavioral issues. The website will continue to highlight articles published across the country of impacting behavioral threats to the fire service. Another upcoming feature to the website will be a monthly column on best practices for addressing reputation management issues.

The website is not the only place CVVFA’s reputation management best practices will be featured. The reputation management team has also been busy providing articles for groups such as the International Association of Fire Chiefs and a soon to be released firefighter lifestyle magazine.

CVVFA is committed to empowering fire departments across the country to take a proactive approach to keeping themselves from making frontpage news for the wrong reasons. Visit www.firefighterbehavior.com for more information and to download your copy of the National Firefighter Code of Ethics.

Jim Watson of the Delaware City Fire Company was elected President of the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association for 2013-2014. Jim is an active member of Delaware City. The Company actively supports the mission of the CVVFA. Delaware City under President Watson's guidance has helped produce two national roadway safety Public Service Announcements (PSAs) for the CVVFA. Jim was installed at the 112th Annual Convention in Shippensburg PA with his family in attendance, along with a contingent of Delaware City and DVFA leaders at the annual banquet.

In his acceptance speech he indicated his agenda was to take the CVVFA to another level. He plans to update the strategic plan and to encourage younger fire service members to join. Since becoming President he has attended the FASNY Convention in Albany, New York. He also approved a new initiative involving the CVVFA Fire Service Reputation Management Committee whose members will be presenting programs on how fire departments can preserve and protect their reputation by the proper use of social media.

Jim served previously as President of the New Castle County Fire Chiefs Association, the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association and the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News

CVVFA

Fall 2013

By Claudia Garner

13-Year Old Wins CVVFA Youth Leadership Award Thirteen year old Madison Definbaugh, the youngest Keynote Speaker in CVVFA History, received the Chief Gary “Happy Jack” Easton Youth Leadership Award at the 112th annual CVVFA Convention in Shippensburg, PA. Madison has been empowering other youth to enhance their knowledge of the chance of a disaster through Ohio Fire Corps’ “Enhance for the Chance” youth preparedness program since 2011. This program uses peer advocates to spread the message of fire prevention and disaster preparedness to other youth.

Madison got her start while serving as the Safety Officer for her local 4H Club. She helped start the Enhance for the Chance program with the help of her mother in 2011 and has reached out to over 1,000 people.

Madison was accompanied by her mother Candice McDonald, her brother and other family members. They attended the CVVFA Convention. Madison and the many of her family members are involved in the fire service and are members of the CVVFA. The Chief Gary “Happy Jack” Easton Memorial Award honors the late chief of the Berkeley Springs Volunteer Fire Company who was a leader in recruiting and training young people for the volunteer fire service. Many of “Happy Jack’s” boys are now leaders in the fire service.

CVVFA Safety Institute Director Wins Joe Bukowski Award Jack Sullivan, Director of Training of the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Emergency Responder Safety Institute, received the Joe Bukowski Memorial Award for his steadfast devotion to protecting emergency responders on the highways.

Sullivan is considered one if not the best roadway incident scene safety instructors in the nation. Jack served as an instructor and assistant chief in Chester County, PA, and was a member of Lionville Fire Company when in 1998, 10 members were struck, killing one in an incident on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Since then Jack has dedicated his career to preventing this type of incident. He was honored at the 112th Annual CVVFA Convention in Shippensburg, PA, where earlier in the day he presented a class to responders. The award is made in memory of the late Joe Bukowski a CVVFA past-President. His vision helped establish the Emergency Responder Safety Institute. Joe was a life member of the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company of Newark, DE, and had served as President of the Delaware State Fire Police Association. Sullivan (left) received the award from Joe’s wife, Karen, past-CVVFA President and Committee Chair Chief Steve Flickinger and CVVFA President Steve Haines.

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45

Antique Corner A Classic ’54 Foamite

by Bob Romig

This article will feature a classic rig once owned by Aetna HH&L Co., in Newark, Delaware, and now owned by Shirley and Steve Austin. The rig is a 1954 American LaFrance Foamite, 750 gpm. Invader pumper that I believe was also known as a 700 Series since the pump panel is on the officer's side instead of on the driver’s side.

The Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company of Newark, DE, took delivery of this ALF pumper, serial # L4982 around March 24, 1954, for the price of $15,700. The engine is equipped with a 300 gallon water tank, 750 gpm pump and a 30 gallon on board foam system. It was designated as Engine 102 (otherwise known as One-Oh-Two). Two of Engine 102’s memorable alarms involved airplane disasters; the crash of a U.S. Army plane into the Newark Lumber Company in 1955, and the crash of Pam Am Flight 214 in Elkton, Maryland, near the Delaware state line in 1963. In the early 1970s Engine 102 was retired from service and sold to a summer camp in New York to be used as an amusement ride for children.

In 2003, Steve, a Life Member of Aetna HH&L learned that the engine still existed and was located in Michigan, where a private owner had it for sale. Shirley and Steve Austin acquired the engine in 2003 and for almost 10 years it underwent a complete frame-up restoration.

Engine 102 arrived back in Newark for the first time in over 40 years on December 15, 2012, just in time for Aetna’s 125th Anniversary Celebration in 2013. (I think Steve forgot to tell Shirley that this was

“their” Christmas present!)

Two of their closest fire service friends, one in Delaware and one in Maryland, provided restoration services. Jim Kimble of Emergency Vehicle Specialists in Hagerstown, Maryland, completed the mechanical and body work. Past-Chief Lynn Rogers (Milton Fire Department) of Rogers Signs in Milton, DE, applied the 22-carat gold leaf lettering and decoration with exacting detail. We are honored to be able to bring Engine 102 “home” to again become part of the rich heritage of the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company of Newark, Delaware.

The rig has already participated in the Cumberland Valley Firemen’s Association parade in Shippensburg, PA, and will be, I believe, in the Pennsylvania State Firemen’s Parade in West Chester, PA, the last weekend of September.

This rig was also featured on the back cover of Enjine-Enjine as the “Owners Pride,” a quarterly publication of SPAAMFAA. Having known Steve and Shirley for many years now, I am proud to be able to have seen this rig come back to life and I know that it will be shown proudly by Steve and Shirley at parades and musters and, of course, in his museum. For those of you who do not know, Steve has a small museum attached to his home in Newark. He has lots of fire service history on display, including my old ALF Chemical cart that he also had refurbished. Please contact him if you are interested in visiting his museum at steveaustin@earthlink.net.

- DFSN Story by by Bob Romig; before photo by Michael Doran; finished product photo by Chuck Snyder

Antique Fire Apparatus Maintenance

By Bob Romig I just wanted to let all of you who may be getting your antique rigs has one) and makes sure the fluid is clean and full, that the brakes are in ready for the annual DVFA convention parade to make sure that you working order … including the emergency brake. You should make sure that you check the running lights if you have any on your rig. I know check all the mechanical stuff on them also.

On July 4, 2013, in Bangor, ME, the fire department had their 1930 most of you have a good engineer in-house that maintains your rolling antique in the annual parade and the brakes failed on it and the rig ran stock so just make sure that Ole Betsy gets checked out also. Some of into the back of an antique John Deere tractor throwing the driver under these rigs may not have been on the road since last convention and I’m the wheels of the fire truck and resulting in his death. An investigation sure that you want it to be ready to roll and shine at the state convenby the Fire Department and police indicated that the master cylinder was tion.

Good luck to all of the companies with antiques in the parade. not full and what fluid was in the unit was contaminated.

Just be sure that someone checks the master cylinder (if your vehicle

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL

Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Agencies Assist UD in RA Fire Safety Training

DSU RAs Come to DSFS for Fire Safety Training

Under the direction of Kevin McSweeney, Fire Protection Engineer with University of Delaware’s Department of Environmental Health Safety, resident assistants received fire safety training on August 20, 2013. Partners included the Mill Creek and Aetna Hose Fire Companies, the city of Newark Fire Marshal’s Office, campus law enforcement, the State of Delaware’s Fire Marshal’s Office and the Delaware State Fire School. Approximately 250 students received training, learned of hazards in dorm rooms, stovetop fire safety and did an escape from a residence hall filled with simulated smoke.

– DFSN story by Michael Lowe, DSFS

On August 12, 2013, the 2013 Resident Assistants (RA) of Delaware State University attended the Delaware State Fire School for their annual fire training. RAs studied safety issues, and did their fire safety training. Seventy-one students were in attendance. Lessons included an overall discussion of fire safety and escape planning in a campus setting, as well as fire extinguisher training, kitchen fire safety and infectious control.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS

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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

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 47

Delaware Fire Service in Action

42 .

Cover up for Station ie Wales an ph - DFSN photo by Ste

Motorhome fire stopped before townhouse ignites.

- DFSN photo by Amy Murray

Plane Down, no pr - DFSN photo by M oblem in Dover. ichael J. O'Connor , Jr.

MVC with wires down on Laurel Road.

- DFSN photo by Dwayne Chaffinch

Page 48, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service in Action

th entrapment.

Harrington MVA wi ief Earl K. Brode t Asst. Ch - DFSN story by 1s

One extricated in Dover MVA. - DFSN photo by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.

VC. Four injured at M urray M y Am by oto - DFSN ph

Townsend FC resp onds to MVC. - DFSN photo by M ichele Ehart

Quick work at Middletown MVC. - DFSN photo by Amy Murray

One serious in rout - DFSN photo by M e 1 MVA. ichele Ehart

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 49

Delaware Firefighters’ Night with the Wilmington Blue Rocks

The 2013 Firefighters’ Night with the Wilmington Blue Rocks was held on Sunday, July 28, with a 1700 game against the Carolina Mudcats. Despite threatening skies and an hour-long rain delay at the outset, more than 100 members of Delaware’s Fire/Rescue/EMS community turned out to cheer on Wilmington’s minor league baseball team and enjoy some special moments.

As part of the festivities, NCCVFA president Dan Carrier and LA-NCCVFA president Karen Barlow each threw out a ceremonial first pitch. Along with that, members of the DVFA Choir performed “God Bless America” and the “National Anthem” before the game. Their performance of the anthem came with about an hour’s notice, as the originally scheduled performer was unable to attend.

The choir handled both selections masterfully.

The Delaware Fire Service News was on hand to capture all the festivities and say “Hi” to all our friends. We even noticed a special “fan” of the fire service enjoying the newspaper.

- DFSN photos by Tom Mitten and Frank C. Trotta

Page 50, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Up Close & Personal

Wilmington 2-Alarmer.

- DFSN photo by Lou Angeli

Millsboro firefighters after house fire on Lawson Road.

- DFSN photo by Larry Gum

Ernie Mocci and Bob Nickerson of Lewes Fire Department, at Safe Kids event. - DFSN photo by Michael Lowe

Thankful cat saved by Bowers FC Firefighters.

- DFSN photo by Stephanie Wales

Kent County Meeting.

- DFSN photo by Stephanie Wales

Rehoboth house fire.

- DFSN photo by Patrick Miller

Wilmington 2-Alarmer.

- DFSN photo by Lou Angeli

Wilmington Ladder 1 crew.

- DFSN photo by Brian Slattery

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 51

9/11 WTC Heart of Steel

A piece of history arrived in the City of Wilmington Fire Department on August 31, 2013, at Fire Station 1 at 2nd and West Streets in Wilmington. This history reflects the growing support for men and women who served their country and those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

A two-by-two foot portion of steel from the World Trade Center arrived in Wilmington as part of a 22-stop ride from Atlanta to New York

City. The ride was sponsored by Bikers for America’s Bravest.

The “Heart of Steel,” as the piece is called, was housed in each of the City’s 6 Fire Stations and at Fire Headquarters for one day. The 9/11 Heart of Steel was then escorted to the Mayor’s Office and City Council Office for Viewing by City Leadership.

Bikers for America’s Bravest is a fundraiser for “smart homes” built by the Tunnels to

Tower Foundation, which helps build homes that are specially designed for “the most catastrophically injured American service members.” The homes are built to be adaptive for those who have lost multiple limbs. Bikers for America’s Bravest is using this multi-state ride as a way to help gain support.

- DFSN story by Wilmington Fire Chief Anthony Goode - DFSN photos by Brian Slattery

Page 52, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Mass Casualty Incident Drill

Recently, Ellendale Fire Department held a Mass Casualty Incident and Medics triaged the patients. A special thanks goes out to the drill with Sussex County EMS and the Greenwood Fire local Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts for their help and to Fitzgerald for Department. The drill tested EMS, medics and firefighters on sta- the donation of the bus and car.

- DFSN photo by Lisa Turner bilization and extrication on a school bus and car accident. EMS

Fall 2013

DFS News & Notes Eastern IAFC at FRI

The officers from the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chief's at FRI in Chicgo. Left to right are: President Jon Holcolme, NJ; 1st VP Paul Whorrall, NY; 2nd VP Bill Betts, DE; Sec/Treas Jon Townley, DE; Director Terry Jester, DE; Director Paul Sterling, MD; Director Hanna Stahl, PA; International Director Bill Walton, DE; Director Jim Yates, NJ; Director/Past Pres. Pete Mellitts, MD. Missing is Director Bud Phillips, NY. The FRI -- Fire Rescue International -- was held in Chicago on August 12-17, 2013. On Wednesday the officers from the Eastern Division held itheir board meeting at the Marriott. On Thursday, the Eastern Division hosted its annual. conference luncheon at the McCormick Center to a full room of Eastern Division members.

President Holcolme conducted the meeting during the luncheon with several officers and guests making presentations. The highlight of the meeting was the announcements of years of service awards to many Eastern Division members. Congratulations and thanks from the officers to our dedicated members. Our new website will be operational shortly with many great links to training and updated info. Please do not forget to sign up for the “Daily Dispatch.” A super site that keeps you updated on events in your state and highlights from others. Please take advantage of the GPO “Group Purchasing Organization.” We all need ways to save money and this is at the top of the list. The FRI was a huge success for all that attended.

- DFSN article by Terry Jester, photo by Pete Mellitts

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 53

M&T Bank Presents Check

M & T Bank presents check for DVFA Partner’s in Progress Program. Pictured with DVFA Executive Manager, Warren Jones, are Keith Atkins, Business Relationship Manager; Michele Wagner, Bethany Beach Branch Manager; and Michelle Gallagher, Longneck Branch manager.

Blades Fire Company Wins Seaford Burn Tournament

Bowers Ladies Auxiliary Supporting Breast Cancer and Diabetes Awareness - Submitted by Todd Reilly

Miss Swamp Rat 2013 Crowned

- DFSN photo by Stephanie Wales

Four Trophies for Laurel On Wednesday June 19, 2013 the Laurel Fire Department participated in the Maryland Firemen’s Convention parade in Ocean City. Five pieces of apparatus were taken, with three of them winning trophies. Our Ambulance and Engine received Honorable Mentions, and our Tower won for Best Aerial Platform. A total of four trophies were brought back to Laurel in all. We also received Second Best Appearing Delaware Fire Department. Thank You to the Judges who enjoyed viewing our Apparatus and rewarding them.

- Story and photo by Dwayne Chaffinch

On Saturday, June 15, 2013, 8 Firemen and 1 special guest competed for the Miss Swamp Rat title. A special thank you goes out to the Gee You Will Project for lending gowns for the ladies (“gentlemen”) to wear. The loosely titled “Beauty Contest” began years ago as part of the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary “HeeHaw Show”.

The tradition was revived two years ago as part of another event, but was the headlining event. All proceeds benefit the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

The “Winner of Miss Swamp Rat 2013” was Peach Parfait Cotton Candy the Queen. The participants in this year’s contest were: Numchuck “Peach Parfait Cotton Candy”, Steve “Stephanie” Johnson, Logan “Lucy” Jones, Wayne “Clair” Sennett, Tony “Tammy Sue” Jones, Brent “Brenda” Scott, Andy “Candy” and “Dummie BJ” Jones, Joey “Josephine” Bradford, Kent “Kentina” Glasco.

Special performance from the “Swampettes” straight from Ellendale Swamp, LDele and visitor from Kentucky and Emcee Jay Jones.

- DFSN photo by Lisa Turner

Page 54, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

ANNOUNCEMENTS Talleyville Fire Prevention Fair and Open House

and power of attorney created for free by a lawyer so that if the unthinkable happens, you are prepared. Everyone should have these documents prepared to protect your family. For appointments, information, rules On Sunday, September 22, 2013, (rain date September 29), the and eligibility call Dom at 302-477-2016 or e-mail wills4heroesde@ Talleyville Fire Company will host their annual Fire Prevention Fair and mail.widener.edu. You must call or e-mail and make an appointment.

Open House from 1000 to 1600 at the Concord Plaza on Silverside Road. The 7th Annual Antique and Classic Car Show benefitting the Start Your Engines and Head to Dover for Ronald McDonald House of Delaware will also take place during the open house. This is a fun event for the entire family and free refreshFirefighter Appreciation Day ments will be served.

What could be better than a great day of NASCAR racing at the Monster Mile? How about a great day of racing with family, friends and firefighters? Show your support for Adult Halloween Party at Bowers your local heroes at the 6th Annual Firefighter Fire Hall Appreciation Day on September 29, 2013, sponsored On Friday November 1, 2013, the Bowers Fire by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Company will host an Adult Halloween Party from (NFFF).

2100 to 0100. Cost is $10 per person or $15 per couTickets for this special package are $109 and ple. Prizes awarded for costumes and pumpkin decoinclude a race ticket, access to a pre-race hospitality rating. Call Arin for more information and advance tent including an all-you-can-eat buffet and beverages tickets at 302-228-0583. (beer, soda and water), and a trackside access pass before the race. Driver Jamie McMurray will also make an appearance and answer questions. Proceeds from the Sussex County Wills For Heroes ticket sales support the NFFF's efforts to honor our nation’s Program fallen firefighters and provide assistance to their survivors.

The Sussex County Wills For Heroes program will take place on “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation helps the survivors of October 5, 2013, from 1130 until late afternoon at the Sussex County those who died in the line of duty find support, comfort and resources EMS headquarters - Sussex County WEST complex (intersection of US they need as they begin to rebuild their lives,” explained Cathy Hedrick, 9 and US 113 in Georgetown). This free service is available to all pub- the mother of a fallen firefighters and director of corporate relations for lic safety workers including paid or volunteer, police, fire, EMS or dis- the NFFF. “The number of line of duty deaths that the fire service has patchers. experienced this year has been devastating and the foundation has been Wills for Heroes programs provide essential legal documents free of working tirelessly to bring comfort to our newest survivors. This event charge to our nation’s first responders, including wills, living wills, and allows people to have fun and show their admiration for our firefighters powers of attorney. By helping first responders plan now, they ensure while supporting the important work of the NFFF.” their family’s legal affairs are in order before a tragedy hits. The Since 2008, the event has raised more than $390,000 for the NFFF. 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit Wills for Heroes Foundation supports For more information about Firefighter Appreciation Day at Dover these Wills programs, giving back to the community and “protecting International Speedway or to order tickets, go to www.monstermileofthose who protect us.” fers.com/nfff or call 1-800-441-RACE. You and your spouse/significant other can have your will, living will

Body Recovered From The Brandywine River On July 21 at 1345 Wilmington Fire Department Units on the “C” Platoon were dispatched to the Brandywine River in the area below the Washington Street Bridge for the rescue/recovery of a person in the water. Upon arrival, Battalion Chief James Jobes was met by a Wilmington Police Officer who pointed out the location of a person in the water approximately 50 to 75 feet off of the north side of the Brandywine River.

Chief Jobes initiated the response of the Wilmington Fire Department Special Operations units which provides for the response of all technical equipment and trained rescue personnel needed to provide the safest possible water rescue/recovery operation. Fire Department units were deployed on both the north and the south sides of the river. Four rescuers from the south riverbank entered the water and recovered the jumper. Unfortunately the jumper was pronounced dead by the New Castle County paramedics and the scene was turned over to Wilmington Police Department for the investigation.

- Story by Captain Richard S. Danner, photo by John Randolph

Afternoon Building Fire In Wilmington

On July 22, 2013 at 1341, Wilmington firefighters on the D-Platoon were dispatched to North Market Street for a report of a building fire.

Upon arriving, Battalion Chief Raymond Brock reported that heavy smoke was showing from the large, three-story, corner building that has a vacant commercial occupancy on the ground floor with residential apartments on the upper floors. Chief Brock quickly added additional Fire Department units to the call due to the complexity of the large building and high atmospheric temperatures.

Fire suppression companies began an aggressive interior attack while simultaneously searching the building and apartments for trapped occupants. All occupants were found to have exited the building prior to the Fire Department's arrival. Firefighting units found some difficulty in finding the seat of the fire due to the compartmentation of the interior building spaces. Deputy Chief Michael Donohue arrived and ordered a second alarm which brought additional firefighting units from both the City's on duty and reserve forces as well as assistance from neighboring volunteer fire companies.

- Story by Captain Richard S. Danner, photo by John Randolph

Fall 2013

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 55

Cover Story

2-Alarm Blaze Strikes Wilmington

A noonday fire on August 22, 2013, at 4th and Orange Streets in Wilmington went to two alarms, after a stubborn blaze in a condemned 200-year-old building put city firefighters to work. The fire at the former Gross Lighting store and warehouse was deep seated and spreading quickly when Deputy Chief Michael Donahue called for the second alarm, bringing the WFD’s entire on-duty force including: Squad-1, Skyboom 2, Squad-3, Squrt-4, Engine-5, Engine-6, Ladder-1, Tower Ladder-2 and Engine-25 from Talleyville Fire Company. In addition, St Francis EMS, New Castle County Paramedics, Office of Licenses and Inspections and Delaware State Police Helicopter Trooper-4 were on scene.

Following Mayday calls, DC Donahue ordered evacuation of the

building complex and companies transitioned into elevated master streams operations. The fire load was extremely high with lighting and electrical products stacked floor to ceiling in the building's warehouse section. Wilmington Licenses and Inspections condemned the building about a year ago, and according to the owner, it was being brought up to code when the fire broke out. Three firefighters were injured, including D/C Donahue, two of whom were transported to Wilmington Hospital by St Francis EMS and County Paramedics. County companies covered Wilmington Stations as recalled city firefighters restored three engines and a ladder to protect the city.

- DFSN photos by Lou Angeli

Page 56, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Visit To Flight 93 Memorial Park Proceeds from “Requiem for 9/11” concert donated

On June 25, 2013, I was privileged to be part of a group from the Wilmington area which traveled to the hills of rural Southwestern Pennsylvania to visit the Flight 93 National Memorial, located near Shanksville in Somerset County. The primary purpose of our visit was to present a check for $10,000 to the Flight 93 Memorial Fund, the proceeds from the debut performance of the “Requiem for 9/11,” a classical composition by noted Wilmington musician, conductor and teacher Wilson Gault Somers. As organizers of the concert, we selected the Flight 93 Memorial as the recipient of proceeds from the inaugural performance.

Prior to September 11, 2001, the tiny borough of Shanksville, some 65 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, was hardly known beyond its 300-orso residents and their neighbors. But on that fateful Tuesday morning, and forever after, Shanksville became synonymous with New York City and Washington, DC, as the three sights where commercial aircraft, hijacked by a group of terrorists, crashed and resulted in the deaths of more than 3,000 people. The Pennsylvania site, as we all know, was not the targeted destination of Flight 93.

Situated on around 400 acres, within a total of some 2,000 acres, the memorial is a U.S. National Park, actually located in Stoneycreek Township, about two-miles north of Shanksville. While a temporary memorial was established shortly after the crash, the first phase of the permanent memorial was opened to visitors on September 10, 2011, honoring the 10th anniversary of the terror attack. Already, the Flight 93

National Memorial is the fourth most visited National Park in America.

The design of the memorial truly commemorates the heroic actions of the 40 passengers and crew members on United Airlines Flight 93, who recognized the hijacked airliner they were on was part of a bigger terrorist action, and banded together to keep the hijackers from reaching their ultimate target, widely believed to be the U.S. Capitol. The “wall of names” was erected along the final flight path of the ill-fated jet, leading visitors’ eyes toward the point of impact, known as the “Sacred Ground.” Each hero’s name is engraved on an eight-foot tall, three-inch thick slab of polished white granite. The slabs are cantilevered one to another, with one inch of space between each slab, signifying the individuality of each of the 40 heroes who acted as one on that day.

Plans call for a visitors’ center to be built at the top of a bluff that overlooks the wall and Sacred Ground. Another addition to the memorial will be the “Tower of Voices,” a 93-foot high structure containing 40 wind chimes. Forty groves of 40 trees each —1,600 trees in all — will be planted on the site.

The Flight 93 National Memorial adopted as its slogan, “A common field one day ... A field of honor forever.” Given the opportunity to visit, learn and reflect on this elegantly simple, incredibly meaningful tribute to the 40 “ordinary heroes” who made the ultimate sacrifice on that fateful day, I wholeheartedly agree and encourage you to visit this incredible memorial. It is something special to behold.

- DFSN story and photos by Tom Mitten

Fall 2013

MICHAEL DALLESSANDRO (WWW.RESPONDSMART.COM) IS NOW OFFERING CUSTOM DRIVER TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS The package includes a complete review of your current driver S.O.G.s with recommendations on how to protect your department from liability. Mike also completes an onsite-evaluation of a fire department’s specific roadway and traffic hazards in their first due area and develops a new driver training curriculum that incorporates those hazards and information on your FDs specific apparatus including new custom designed driver training check off sheets. A two-hour “train the trainer” session is also conducted when the project is delivered to your fire department that shows your officers and trainers how to use the new material. This project can help your department prevent liability, promote safety and may help your ISO score in the driver training category. For more information e-mail Mike at MPDBUS1@aol.com.

Delaware Fire Service News, Page 57

FIRE RESEARCH CORP. ANNOUNCES ERIC DOTY AS NORTHEAST SALES MANAGER Fire Research Corporation is pleased to announce the addition of Eric Doty as Northeast Regional Sales Manager. Based in Elmira, New York, Eric will be working with distributors and OEMs from Maine to Virginia. Eric served four years in the Air Force and has a bachelors degree in engineering from Northern Arizona University. He has 26-years experience working with customers as a field engineer, technical trainer, sales representative and regional sales manager.

For nine years Eric worked in the fire service industry and looks forward to reconnecting with all the customers and friends that he has made over the years.

When Eric is not working he enjoys spending time with family and participating in outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, four wheeling, hunting and fishing.

Page 58, Delaware Fire Service News

Fall 2013

Fire Marshal’s Report Delmar Fire Caused By Electrical Malfunction

Delaware. One person was found deceased inside a burning home.

The blaze, reported shortly after 1100, occurred in the 3100 block of Bryant’s Corner Road. The Hartly Fire Company arrived on the scene with smoke pouring from the one-story home. Firefighters discovered one person dead inside after the fire was extinguished. A second occupant escaped and was taken to the Kent General Hospital. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $100,000.

Harry Miller, Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office investigated a dwelling fire that occurred on August 5, 2013, at approximately 1449, on the 200 block of North Second Street in Delmar.

The Delmar Fire Company responded to the scene and was assisted by the Laurel and Gumboro Fire Companies.

Upon arrival they encountered heavy smoke.

Felton Church Heavily The home, not equipped with working smoke Damaged By Fire detectors, was occupied at the time of the fire.

No injuries were reported. Damages have been Michael G. Chionchio, Ass’t. State Fire Marshal estimated at $75,000. DSFM investigators have The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office determined that the fire originated on the sec- investigated a fire that heavily damaged the ond floor, caused by an electrical malfunction. Cedar Grove Wesleyan Church near Felton.

The blaze, reported on August 11, 2013, shortly after 0500, occurred in the 1300 block of Cedar Electrical Overload Grove Church Road. The Felton Fire Company Sparks Blaze arrived on the scene with the building engulfed B. Scott Bullock, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office in flames. The Felton Fire Company was assisthas determined a house fire that occurred July ed by several other fire companies. Damages 10, 2013, in Frederica was accidental in nature. are expected to exceed $250,000.

The fire was reported by the occupants at 2015 in the 100 block of Whitwell Delight Drive just west of Bowers Beach in Kent County.

The Bowers Fire Company arrived on location with fire on the exterior of the single family dwelling. Assistance was requested from the Frederica, Magnolia, and Little Creek fire companies, as well as, Kent County Paramedics.

The fire was placed under control at 2050.

Deputy State Fire Marshal’s responded and determined the fire originated at a liquid-fueled electrical generator next to the home, and was caused by an electrical overload.

Harrington Fire Ruled Arson

Michael G. Chionchio, Ass’t. State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that the fire that damaged a house trailer near Harrington was deliberately started.

The arson, reported just before 1300, occurred in the 3100 block of Hills Market Road in southwest Kent County. The Harrington Fire Company arrived on the scene with smoke coming from the dwelling.

Deputy fire marshals were called to the scene Fatal Car Fire in Delmar to conduct the investigation and were able to locate the fire’s origin and determined the cause. Michael G. Chionchio,Ass’t. State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office Heavy fire damage was estimated at $10,000. investigated a August 13, 2013, automobile fire in Delmar. One person was found dead inside Wyoming Storage Building the burning vehicle.

Destroyed By Fire The blaze, reported shortly before 1800, Michael G. Chionchio,Ass’t. State Fire Marshal State fire investigators from the Delaware occurred in the 35000 block of Mount Herman Office of the State Fire Marshal have deter- Circle near Columbia Road. The Delmar Fire mined that a fire that destroyed a Wyoming Company responded and extinguished the fire.

The vehicle was found burning in a cornfield storage building was accidental.

The blaze, reported shortly after 1900, approximately half-mile from the roadway. occurred in the 100 block of Second Street. The Fire marshals along with Delaware State Police Camden Wyoming Fire Company extinguished detectives are working together on the case. the fire with neighboring companies assisting.

Investigators determined the fire originated in the building’s electrical system.

Fan Malfunction Results In $275,000 Damage

Michael G. Chionchio, Ass’t. State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has ruled that the house fire in Newark on July 22, Michael G. Chionchio,Ass’t. State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office 2013, was accidental. The blaze, reported shortinvestigated a fire on August 29, 2013 in Hartly, ly after 1930, occurred in the 1500 block of Iron Hill Road. The Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder

Fatal Fire In Hartly

Company along with assisting fire companies extinguished the fire.

The fire originated inside the attic of the home when an electric ventilation fan malfunctioned igniting nearby combustible materials.

Heavy fire damage was estimated at $275,000.

The home was equipped with operating smoke alarms.

Bear, DE Fire Results In $1 Million Damage

Robert L. Fox, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office investigated an apartment building fire that occurred on September 2, 2013, in Bear. The Christiana Fire Company was alerted to the fire in the 5600 block of Byron Court at the Village of Canterbury Apartments shortly after 2030.

Upon arrival heavy smoke and flames were reported coming from the building. The fire quickly went to a second alarm bringing several neighboring fire companies to the scene.

One resident was injured and treated at the scene by New Castle Paramedics and EMS personnel and transported to Christiana Hospital.

Damage to the apartment building was extensive and estimated at approximately $1 million dollars. Several residents were displaced and were being assisted by the Red Cross of Delmarva.

Claymont Fire Ruled Arson

Robert L. Fox, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office is has determined that the building fire in Claymont, DE on August 12, 2013, is arson.

The Claymont Fire Company was called to the 2600 block of Philadelphia Pike, shortly before 0500 this morning for a building fire.

Upon arrival heavy smoke and fire was seen coming from the building. The fire quickly went to a second alarm bringing several fire companies to the scene to assist.

State Fire Marshal Deputies were called to the scene and have determined that the fire was intentionally started by unknown person or persons. There were no injuries reported. Damage to the structure is extensive and estimated at approximately $550,000.

Smoke Alarm Alerts Sleeping Travel Trailer Occupants

Robert L. Fox, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that the travel trailer fire in Middletown on July 13, 2013, was accidental.

The Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown was called to the 200 block of Beckington Court, in the Lakeside community shortly after 0130. Firefighters found the trailer involved in fire and extending into a nearby home.

State fire investigators were called to the scene and have determined the accidental fire originated in the engine compartment and quickly spread to the rest of the vehicle.

The fire heavily damaged the vehicle and caused minor damage to the residence causing approximately $10,000 in damages. The travel trailer was equipped with a battery operated smoke alarm. The smoke alarm alerted the occupants who were sleeping inside.Everyone escaped without injury.