Serving DELAWARE Serving Fire, Rescue
VOLUME 23, NO. 6
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since Since 1973 1996 1973
DECEMBER 2020
See story on page 13. - Submitted by Ryan Buff
HAPPY HOLIDAYS from your friends at
Fire News
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 3
In this issue... Trash Truck Fire in Rehoboth Beach Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a vehicle fire on Coastal Highway south of Dewey Beach. See story on page 9
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 bi-monthly 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.
Wilmington House Fire Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to West 9th Street for a house fire with a resident still in the house. See story on page 10
Gas Leak on Marsh Island Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a gas leak at Marsh Island on Camp Arrowhead Road on November 5, 2020. See story on page 16
1 Injured at Laurel 2-Car MVC, Fire
Laurel Fire Department, along with SCEMS, were alerted for an MVC on Bethel Road, reported to be two vehicles in a head-on and one car on fire. See story on page 19
Obituaries Hockessin’s Fred W. Long FCFC’s Joseph Samuel Hughes Blade’s Robert Mullin Elsmere’s John Facciolo Delaware Fire Service’s Mike Rush Rehoboth Beach’s Sudler Dill See story on pages 27, 34 & 35
Carol Faedtke Retires After 39 years of dedicated service to ChristianaCare and the Delaware Fire and EMS community, Carol Faedtke is retiring as the Prehospital Services See story on page 42 Manager.
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 SCEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 24 & 25 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 26 Delaware State Fire School . . . . .pages 28 & 30 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 31 & 32 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42
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: Mark Anderson, Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Christine Bennett, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Sean Byron, Dave Carpenter, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Michele Ehart, Mary Eisenbrey, Mark Felicetti, Dave Ferguson, Robert Fox, Jon Gallo, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Doug Hudson, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Bill Ireland, Jr., Terry Jester, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Chris Lucas, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joseph Mriss, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Dwayne Pearson, Phil Pennington Sr., Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, John Randolph, James Read, Matthew Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Kevin Sipple, Chuck Snyder, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Jack Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 x111 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-776-0500 x111 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $25.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers AdvantEdge Healthcare ........... 13
Provident Agency Inc. .............. 17
Atlantic Emergency Solutions ....................... 5, 15, 22, 23, 33, 43
Rush Uniforms ........................... 9
DPC ................................. 2, 29, 44 ESI .............................................. 9 Fire, Rescue & EMS Today Podcast ..................................... 17 Hanover Fairs USA Interschutz .................................................... 21
Spicer Mullikin ......................... 11 Sutphen ....................................... 7 Terry Farrell ........................... Firefighters Fund ...................... 8 VCI ........................................... 19
Page 4, Fire News, December 2020
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
We Made It! As I gave thought to this editorial, I realized that it is for the December Fire News. Wow, December; can you imagine that 2020 is about to end? Covid-19 has certainly made our lives as first responders difficult. Despite having to change the way we exist at the firehouse, we’ve had to rethink how we handled routine events and calls, while major calls also challenged our chiefs. The fire was never the problem. The problem was reminding members that distancing themselves from one another before, during and after the call was a new requirement. I can’t tell you how many times I walked up to the fireground and forgot my face mask. Thanks to our EMS responders who always politely reminded me to wear my mask as they handed me a new one so I could be protected from Covid-19. As 2020 continued and the number of Covid cases dropped, many of us started to let our guard down. Occasionally, we found out the hard way that this horrible disease is still alive and threatens us. I know of several incidents where members received calls from their chiefs notifying them they were
exposed. It may have happened when a member was exposed to the disease at another location and now responded on a call without wearing a facemask. The result of this mistake ended up with members having to be tested and/or quarantined. Please, remember to wear a face mask when you are in close proximity to people all of the time! In many departments, 2021 elections have been held. If your company has new officers, please give them the support that they need to continue keeping you safe. It is also a good time for new officers to sit down with senior members and officers ending their term to discuss the things that can or cannot be done to keep your company running smoothly. Speaking from experience, I always appreciated the advice I received from experienced members. I always learned something important when I took the time to sit with them over coffee and asked for input. I always love to share my favorite drills which challenged members and I love to share the problems I had as a new officer. To the new officers, take the time to share ideas with the people who
probably made the same mistakes you could make on your very first day in office. In closing, I would like to wish everyone a blessed and happy holiday. Remember the people of your community who are less fortunate. Most likely you are not going to be opening your firehouse to your community as a result of Covid-19 prevention. Even though your doors for socialization will probably be closed, you can still let the community know you are there for them. A simple wave of the hand lets everyone know that they are in your thoughts and prayers during this holiday season. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all! -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, December 2020
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Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office DVFA Executive Meeting: The DVFA Executive Meeting will be held December 13, 2020, at 1000. It will be held at each fire school locatios and simulcast to all locations. There is a limit on how many can attend at each location. We have to limit the Delegates and Alternates to only two (2) from each company. Please register if you are attending and which location you will be attending. Send you registration to the Executive Manager at wjones@dvfassn.com. Funding Deficits: We sent out an e-mail to all presidents asking for information on how much you have lost, comparing this year to last year, on your fund drives, hall rentals and fund
raising events due to the coronavirus. We would like to have this information for our discussions with the state this year. The state has offered money from the CARES Act to small businesses and non-profits. We did not fit the requirements of the non-profits in this round, but are trying to get the next round of CARES Act money for us in order to apply for it. The information on your income losses would greatly help us is those talks. AFG-S: As we have reported before, we were awarded an AFG-S grant by FEMA. This grant was for reimbursement of cost for the Covid-19 expenses. All companies who were part of the regional grant have been notified.
We are currently processing the grant. R & R Task Force: The Executive Manager met with the chair of the Task Force to lay out plans to get the Task Force up and running. It was a very productive meeting and the Task Force should be back up soon. We have all experienced very different times over the last eight months. If the DVFA Office can be of any assistance to you for any of your needs please contact us. Thank you for what you do and stay safe! Warren Jones, Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566 (cell) 302-734-9404 (fax)
DVFA President by Norman Jones Jr., President, DVFA Since the last edition of Fire News Delaware a lot has changed. We now have eight new legislators in the General Assembly, new leadership in the Senate, a new Director of OMB, a new Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, a new Secretary of DelDOT, a new Director of DIVCOMM and the list, in Dover, goes on. If you add the eight new legislators this year to the 15 from the 2018 election that total means over one third of the General Assembly has changed.We have to network with all of these folks. Fortunately, we already know Secretary McQueen and all the group who came on in 2018, but the rest we have to meet to go over our priorities. Because of the Covid-19 crisis, that may be difficult, but the Executive
Manager and I will see how many we can get to before the General Assembly starts in January 2021. Speaking of Covid-19. It is still with us and we appear to be heading for a dark winter as the cases continue to grow. A number of our firefighters have come down with the coronavirus proving we are not exempt from it. At the fire school now, everyone must wear a face covering inside or outside unless you are eating, drinking or have an SCBA on. I worry and pray for all of our fire service members who have been affected by this. If there is a light at the end of the tunnel it is the news that a vaccine is on the horizon. The DVFA and the Fire Commission has worked, behind the scenes, since May to make sure our first responders are on the priority list to receive it when it becomes available. Until that time though, we should follow the fire school’s lead on wearing of masks. Remember we are in the public’s eye and need to lead by example. Now, more the ever we need to put aside our differences and come together united to meet
our goals. We are in a complex combination system that offers many layers of services that has many goals ahead. On the top of our list is funding, cancer legislation, and recruitment and retention help. We also need to continue to educate the public on life safety initiatives such as smoke detectors and home sprinklers. We have a full agenda and, with the legislators starting off in a virtual format, that will be trying. A lot of people may see these as challenges but I see them an opportunities. Opportunities to do this differently and to explore new options. We have already moved into receiving things electronically from Legislative Hall. We are in the process of setting up a communications tree with our legislators and with the key folks in government. In 2021 I ask for a United Fire Service. Let us move to this next chapter together to better our service for all Delawareans. Please use safe practices. We need you all. I look forward to working with everyone. Thank you for what you do.
LADVFA Corner by Karen Workman, President LADVFA This time last year I had held my first meeting as President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. I had no idea after that meeting that it would be the only meeting I would preside over in a years’ time. I never
would have thought that what should have been a one-year term would turn into a twoyear one. This has been an unforgettable year. By now we would have already held our County Fire Prevention Awards ceremony and would be preparing for the State Fire Prevention Awards dinner in January. We are still going to have the award ceremonies, they are just being pushed back to later dates. So please, let your local schools and teachers know
that the Fire Prevention Contests is still a go for this year, just with some modifications to it. With the holidays upon us, please remember safety first with all your decorations. I want to wish everyone Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. Thank you, to all the dedicated men and women of the LADVFA and the DVFA, you are appreciated more than you know. Please stay safe.
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 7
Page 8, Fire News, December 2020
Pole Building Fire
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The Blades Volunteer Fire Company, along with mutual aid companies, handled a fire in a five-car pole building early on the morning of October 10, 2020. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
Apartment-Over-Commercial Fire Held in Wilmington Shortly after 1430 on October 6, 2020, Wilmington firefighters on the B Platoon were dispatched for a structure fire on North Market Street. Battalion Chief John Hoban arrived to fire in a three-story, middle-of-the-row, apartments-over-commercial structure. Engine 2 began an aggressive interior fire attack containing the fire to the room of origin. Simultaneously, additional crews searched all levels of the structure for occupants with negative results. The scene was placed under control at 1450. The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office conducted an origin and cause investigation and determined the fire was accidental and thought to have been started with combustible materials next to heating appliance. The following units responded: Engine 2, Engine 1, Squad 4, Squrt 3, Ladder 2, Ladder 1, Battalion 1, Battalion 2, Battalion-12, FM-11, FM-13, FM-14, Deputy 2, Deputy 4, St. Francis EMS, New Castle County Paramedics, and Wilmington License and Inspection. - Submitted by John Looney
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 9
Trash Truck Fire in Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a vehicle fire on Coastal Highway south of Dewey Beach on September 15, 2020. Units arrived to find a Waste Management trash truck whose load had caught fire, dumped on the highway. Southbound Coastal Highway was shut down as crews extinguished the pile with the help of a City of Rehoboth beach loader. Firefighters were on scene for about an hour. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Page 10, Fire News, December 2020
Wilmington House Fire
On November 2, 2020 Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to West 9th Street for a house fire with a resident still in the house. Acting Battalion Chief Robert Pryor arrived to smoke coming from the second floor of a two-story semi-detached residence. The resident thought to be inside was found outside. Engine 6 quickly extinguished the second-floor fire while Ladder 2 searched. All residents were able to escape the house prior to fire department units arriving. Battalion Chief Pryor placed the scene under control at 0545. The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office and Wilmington Licenses and Inspections responded to the scene for the investigation. The residence sustained moderate smoke damage. The American Red Cross assisted three adults and one child. There were no civilian injuries, but one firefighter sustained a minor injury. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Machinery Fire on Enviro Way Blades Volunteer Fire Company, along with mutual aid companies, were alerted for a commercial structure fire on Enviro Way. Units arrived to find machinery on fire inside of the building. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 11
House Fire on S. Dupont Hwy. Station 47 along with Ladder Company 78, Tanker Company 50, BLS 50 and 78 and KM8 responded to a house fire on South Dupont Highway. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Mobile Home Fire in Colonial East Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company assisted Lewes with a mobile home fire in Colonial East on September 17, 2020. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Page 12, Fire News, December 2020
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HVAC Fire on Rt. 24 Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company units assisted Lewes with a structure fire at Dollar General on Route 24 at Peddlers Village. The incident was confined to an HVAC unit. Stations 80 and 85 also responded. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Kitchen Fire in Angola by the Bay Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company units, assisted by Lewes and Indian River, responded to a small kitchen fire at a house on Boat Dock Drive in Angola by the Bay. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
House Fire in Seaford
Wilmington Fire Displaces Resident
Blades Volunteer Fire Company, along with mutual aid companies, handled a house fire on Danny Drive in Seaford on August 30, 2020. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
On November 11, 2020, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to North Jessup Street for a house fire. Squad 4 reported smoke showing from the second floor of a two-story semidetached residence. Battalion Chief Richard Danner requested additional units for assistance. Crews made an aggressive attack and were able to contain the fire to area of origin. Simultaneously, additional crews searched all levels of the dwelling with negative results. The resident was able to escape the house prior to fire department units arriving. Investigators from the Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office for an investigation. Wilmington License and Inspections deemed the property uninhabitable. - Submitted by John Looney
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 13
Cover Story
Mayday Cleared at Jonathan’s Landing Fire
On October 25, 2020, at 1555, the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department, along with units from Camden-Wyoming and Little Creek, were alerted for a structure fire in the 1100 block of West Birdie Lane in the Jonathan’s Landing development. Unit 5516 arrived to find smoke showing. The first arriving truck pulled a handline and began forcible entry to the alpha side. Crews were met with large amounts of heat and smoke while attempting to find the seat of the fire. Shortly after crews entered the building, a Mayday was declared for a firefighter who fell through the floor. The Mayday was cleared moments later when the firefighter was pulled from the basement. He was evaluated by EMS and did not require transport. The crews operated for just over three hours. - Submitted by Ryan Buff
Page 14, Fire News, December 2020
Farmington Shed Fire
Farmington Fire Company operating at a recent manure shed fire on Woodyard Road. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Laurel Makes Quick Response to House Fire
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Five Points Assists Cranston Heights At 1540 on July 9, 2020, Five Points Fire Company was alerted to assist Cranston Heights Fire Company on a commercial structure fire in the 500 block of Hercules Road. Ladder 17 arrived as the first special service unit. The crew split up, with two going to the roof and two going inside to assist the engine crew search for the source of a burning odor. After a short period of time it was determined that the odor was coming from a malfunctioning hot plate used in a processing exhaust hood. Units cleared in about 45 minutes. - Submitted by Five Points FC
Wheatley’s Pond Townhouse Fire
On October 17, 2020, at 2259, Sussex EOC alerted Laurel, Delmar and Sharptown fire departments, along with SCEMS, for a house fire on Pine Grove Road in Hollywood’s Park. Due to Engine 813 being staffed at a pre-arranged standby at one of the area’s haunted houses, they left immediately after dispatch with a crew of four under direction of Chief Engineer Mark Oliphant. Chief Hill also responded. Command arrived to find a single-story ranch-style home with fire showing from Side A. Engine 3 pulled a cross lay to the front door and made a quick knock on the fire. Engine 81-4 with a crew of six arrived and split crews for primary and secondary searches and assisting Engine 3s crew with fire suppression. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Vehicle Fire in Harrington On October 22, 2020, at 0038, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to a vehicle fire on Simpson Street in the area of Peck Avenue. Harrington Police were patrolling the area and found the vehicle on fire. Firefighters arrived to a pickup fully involved several hundred feet off the roadway. Firefighters placed one handline in service and quickly extinguished the fire. The scene was placed under control and the scene was turned over to the Harrington Police Department for investigation. The driver of the truck was treated for minor injuries but refused transport. - Submitted by Earl Brode
On September 1, 2020, Clayton, along with Ladder and Engines 44 and 43, Rescue 51, Engine 26, Ambulance 64 and KM6 were dispatched for a residential structure fire in the 100 Block of Preston Drive in the Village of Wheatley’s Pond. Units arrived to find a two-story middle-of-the-row townhouse with a fire on the second floor. Engine 45 stretched a line while other firefighters handled the searches and checked for extension. The scene was quickly placed under control. - Photo courtesy Joe Jones; Submitted by Skip Carrow
Claymont Assists at PA Structure Fire
Recently, Claymont Fire Company Rescue 13 was dispatched to assist Aston Township Fire Company (PA) with a fully involved structure fire. Crews set up and maintained the RIT assignment for the duration of the fire. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Page 16, Fire News, December 2020
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Five Points Storm Responses On August 7, 2020, around 1830, Five Points Fire Company Squad 17 was alerted to assist Hockessin Fire Company on multiple calls resulting from a heavy thunderstorm which rolled through that area and through northern New Castle County. Chief Manley also responded. Just after responding, 17 units were re-directed to a residential structure fire in the Brandywine Hundred Fire District. The units cleared that call and, again, headed towards the Hockessin area. Chief Manley was heading several calls in the Montchanin and Greenville areas and he also headed to assist. Gator 17 was also requested to the Mt. Cuba area to assist with water rescues due to roads being blocked. Squad 17 and 178 handled multiple incidents in the areas they were assigned, including trees and wires down, water rescues, structure collapses, etc. The units were out until around midnight. During this time, Engine, Ladder and Ambulance 17 remained staffed for any calls in the Five Points area. The storm was later determined to be an EF1 tornado. - Submitted by Five Points FC; photos courtesy of Frank Martin, Jr.
Five Points Covers Wilmington On July 30, 2020, Five Points Fire Company Ladder 17, covered Wilmington Fire Station 1 while they are out on a high-rise structure fire on North French Street. Ladder 17 handled an automobile crash, a residential CO problem and an automatic fire alarm. - Submitted by Five Points FC
Claymont Handles Gas Leak Recently, a box alarm was transmitted for a smell of gas inside a duplex with a male still inside the residence. Claymont Engine 13-5 and Chief 13 arrived to find a gas leak inside the basement with an unconscious patient. He was removed while a line was stretched by Engine 13’s crew. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Gas Leak on Marsh Island
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a gas leak at Marsh Island on Camp Arrowhead Road on November 5, 2020. Units found a two-inch main had been cut with LNG leaking out under pressure. A shutoff was located shortly after arrival. Units
were on scene for approximately an hour. Chesapeake Utilities responded along with the DEC. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder and Warren Jones
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 17
Rehoboth Beach Handles MVC
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company responded to a two-vehicle MVC on Warrington Road on October 11, 2020. Two patients were transported to the hospital. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder & Warren Jones
Page 18, Fire News, December 2020
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Farmington MVC Station 47 and Ambulance 78 recently operated at a twovehicle MVC on Main Street in Farmington. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Hebron Road MVC Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company members responded to an MVC on Hebron Road recently. Crews found a vehicle up the embankment with no injuries. The car was stabilized and the driver assisted out. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Rollover on Concord Road Blades Volunteer Fire Company along with Laurel Fire Department responded to an MVC with rollover and reported entrapment on Concord Road on August 29, 2020. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
Pedestrian Accident from Domestic Dispute On September 14, 2020, at 2220, the Harrington Fire Company, Kent County EMS (KM-8) and Delaware State Police Aviation were dispatched to a vehicle accident involving a pedestrian in the 100 Block of Mechanic Street. Firefighters arrived and determined that the accident was a result of a domestic dispute and one subject was run over by a car. The injured subject was placed into an ambulance and transported to an LZ in the parking lot of the firehouse. Trooper 2 landed and the patient was flown to Christiana Hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. - Submitted by Earl Brode
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 19
1 Injured at Laurel 2-Car MVC, Fire At 1243 on November 8, 2020, the Laurel Fire Department, along with SCEMS, were alerted for an MVC on Bethel Road, reported to be two vehicles in a head-on and one car on fire. Ambulance 81 arrived to one car well involved with no entrapment and possible exposure to the second vehicle. Unit 814 responded with three with Assistant Chief Lowe as officer. Due to limited manpower, Station 71 Blades was requested for an engine assist. Tanker 71 made a response. Once the fire was knocked out, crews remained on scene for over two hours for clean up. Ambulance 81 obtained an RMA and Ambulance 87 transported one subject to Tidal Health Nanticoke. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
MVA on So. Dupont Highway On October 25, 2020, at 1138, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to an MVA on South DuPont Highway northbound, south of Paradise Alley Road. Firefighters arrived to one vehicle which had left the roadway and struck a metal sign. The driver of the vehicle was not injured and did not require treatment. The crew from Rescue 50 secured the vehicle and confirmed there were no hazards. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Page 20, Fire News, December 2020
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MVC on Coastal Hwy.
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company members responded to an MVC on Coastal Highway in front of the Crab House. One
patient was transported to Beebe Medical Center in Lewes. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder and Warren Jones
Blades, Seaford Handle MVC Blades Volunteer Fire Company, Seaford Fire and paramedics were alerted on September 14, 2020, for an MVC with entrapment on Concord Pond Road. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
MVC, Rollover, Self-Extrication On October 25, 2020, the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company along with the Rescue Company out of Camden-Wyoming Fire Company were alerted for an MVC with rollover on Ponderosa Drive and Nicklaus Lane, with a subject reported trapped. Upon the arrival of EMS units it was discovered that the patient had self extricated and was transported. - Submitted by Ryan Buff
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 21
Vehicle Accident on South Dupont Hwy. On October 21, 2020, at 0808, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to an MVC on South DuPont Highway in the area of Hopkins Cemetery Road. Firefighters arrived to find a car and a pickup pulling a camper involved in the accident. The truck and camper then left the roadway striking a telephone pole and power lines. All the subjects involved in the accident suffered minor
5 Hurt in State Line MVC Recently, Claymont crews were dispatched to Interstate 95 at the Pennsylvania line where crews worked to extricate one patient from a two-vehicle MVC. Five patients were transported with three being trauma alerts. Units operating on scene were Rescue 13, R39 Utility 39, A13, B13, MIC68, MIC140, AMB17, AMB52, M100, M100A, NCC Paramedics, 1/11 Fire Police, PA and DE State Troopers. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
injuries but refused transport to a hospital. The scene was placed under control and all units cleared the scene. The scene was turned over to the Delaware State Police for further investigation. Units on scene: Ambulance A-50, Rescue 50, 50-1, Fire Police, Delaware Electric Co-Op, Del-Dot and Delaware State Police. OIC: Fire Chief Robbie Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Page 24, Fire News, December 2020
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SCEMS
Sussex County Names Robert W. Murray, Jr. as New EMS Director Sussex County is turning to a longtime professional known for having his finger on the pulse of the latest medical training and trends to helm the county’s award-winning paramedic service. County Council, at its July 14, 2020, meeting, appointed Robert W. Murray, Jr., as the next director of Sussex County Emergency Medical Services, the county-run paramedic system that complements local fire/ambulance companies during acute emergency calls. Murray, currently serving as Deputy Director Of Administration, took over for retiring Director Robert A. Stuart at the end of July. As director, Murray will lead more than 100 paramedics and roughly a dozen support staff in one of the largest departments in county government. Sussex County EMS is a nationally accredited, non-transporting service, operating 11 full-time units with paramedics who provide ALS care around the clock, 365 days a year, throughout the county. “I’m honored to be given this opportunity by the County Council to lead some of the most compassionate and gifted paramedics you will find anywhere,” Mr. Murray said. “Our paramedics are some of the best in the country.” Murray, a native of Frankford, has a long and distinguished career with Sussex County EMS, joining the organization in 1994, as a paramedic, eventually rising through the ranks as a Field Training Officer, Training Coordinator, Operations Manager, Deputy Director of operations, Deputy Director of Administration, and now the top post. He was named Paramedic of the Year in 1999, and earned other SCEMS distinctions in 2000, 2003 and 2018. During his tenure, Mr. Murray has been a leading voice within the organization to develop continuing education curriculum that ensures paramedics are trained on the latest urgent care medical protocols and standards, and he has worked with local fire companies and police agencies to coordinate planning and training for mass casualty and active assailant incidents. Outside of his county service, Mr. Murray is a member of the Frankford Fire Company, where he has been a volunteer since 1988, serving as a Chief Line Officer, Fire Chief, and most recently, President. “Robbie brings more than 30 years of education, experience and
expertise in paramedicine and the local volunteer fire service. He’s a public servant through and through,” County Council President Michael H. Vincent said. “Robbie will do a wonderful job as our next director and will ensure our paramedic service continues its proud tradition of ‘Caring People, Quality Service’.” Mr. Murray praised his predecessor, and said he is looking forward to carrying through and expanding on several projects and programs that started in earnest under Director Stuart’s leadership, including the county’s transition from co-located units in local fire companies to free-standing paramedic stations — a new facility, the fifth, is under construction near Seaford. Other initiatives include planning for and relocating the department’s main offices and training center to new space at the County’s Emergency Operations Center, as well as ensuring the department maintains its first-ever accreditation. “Bob has done tremendous work to see this department grow and evolve, and I look forward to continuing that work,” Mr. Murray said. As Sussex County welcomes Mr. Murray to the SCEMS director position, it says goodbye to Director Stuart, who retired July 31 after 29 years of county service. Mr. Stuart, who joined SCEMS in 1990 as a student in the department'’s inaugural year, has served in several roles, including Paramedic, Quality and Training Manager, Deputy Director and, since 2010, Director. Among his proudest achievements during his directorship, Mr. Stuart pointed to SCEMS being recognized in 2011 with the Dick Ferneau Paid EMS Service of the Year Award, earning the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) certification in early 2020, but most importantly having a staff that exemplifies the organization’s motto each and every day. “I’ve been fortunate to be part of an amazing system that has grown from 12 employees and one unit to a system of 11 units staffed by 118 medics,” Mr. Stuart said. “I know SCEMS will continue to excel and be a national leader in ALS under the leadership of Director Murray.” - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
SCEMS Promotes Glenn Marshall In July 2020, Sussex County EMS promoted Glenn Marshall from Special Operations Coordinator to Special Operations Manager. Marshall has held the position of Special Operations Coordinator since 2016. As the Special Operations Coordinator he manages all special events, the HazMat Team, and media relations. He also interacts daily with the shift commanders and often guides them in their participation in special events and other critical events and incidents. As Special Operations Manager he continues to perform all the above duties as well as serving as a back-up for the Deputy Director of Operations in many other operational areas. Marshall previously served as a Field Training Officer, District Supervisor, and Public Information Officer. SCEMS congratulates Marshall on this well-deserved promotion. - Submitted by Sharon Wile
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 25
SCEMS
SCEMS Summer & Fall Awards and Promotions The following awards were presented during summer and fall training sessions. SCEMS congratulates all that were recognized. Length of Service Cody Grosch - 5 years Kristen McAfee - 5 years Cassandra Petralia - 5 years Andrew Weitzel - 5 years Elizabeth Moye - 15 years Barry Hoke - 20 years Carl Davis - 20 years Don Weber - 20 years
Awards Carl Davis Departmental Achievement John Haynie Departmental Achievement Russell Hooper Departmental Achievement John Wright Departmental Achievement
Op-Ed
SCEMS 2019 Physician of the Year
Leah O’Boyle Education Bachelor’s Degree Glenn Marshall Education - Bachelor’s Degree Robbie Murray Departmental Achievement Promotions Calvin Yelverton - Promotion to Field Training Officer (FTO) Cassandra Petralia - Promotion to Field Training Officer (FTO) Kristen McAfee - Promotion to Field Training Officer (FTO) James Rose - Promotion to PI Candace Ernst - Promotion to PII - Submitted by Glenn Marshall - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
Let’s Be Smart and Safety and Success Will Follow
As a 25-plus-year student in public safety, I have told crews to be safe more times than I can count. And yes, I want our crews to be safe all the time. However, as my experience increases, continue to take classes and teach more; I find out that being safe is not our job … being smart is. Our job is dangerous by default. We put people in very dangerous situations, work in some of the most difficult situations outside of combat, and we tell people to be safe. Being safe does not allow us to successfully execute our responsibilities. In a society that is becoming more risk adverse, it is time for our public safety partners to become risk managers. We can do this with three precepts: 1 leading by example; 2 - developing organizations that promote critical thinking and; 3 flawless execution.
A company I worked for had a saying on the wall — “attention to detail drives everything we do” — and that is the truth. The fire service I am familiar with has done an outstanding job over the last 10-plus years to develop a tactical discipline that builds our foundation. This expands on decades of experience and helps us to compensate for the staffing changes and increasing challenges. As we have done this, we have also had to make sure we have not created robots. If you have ever read General Stanly McCrystal’s book Team of Teams, you learn how senior military officials identified they were not winning battles because they were trying to fight a war from a conference room. They realized that by providing the strategy to the best trained operators in the world they would have better success. It was simple, the
SEAL Team knew the mission, the environment, their strengths and weaknesses, it worked, and they started to win. This year, 2020, is the most complex year in the United States and the world since WWII. We have had to be creative and flexible while still paying attention to everything we do. It is time for us to make sure we lead our people in a way that they rely on their training and experience to make the right decisions, while also holding them accountable. If they deviate, or something goes wrong, ask why. Maybe their logic was sound, maybe it wasn’t, but we need to make sure we create a culture where people think and don’t just act. So, yes we want people to be safe, but teach them how to be smart, and safety and success will follow. - Submitted by A.J. Schall, Jr.
Page 26, Fire News, December 2020
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Up Close & Personal
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company at training. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder Roadway Randy the Eagle, and Dr. Candy (Candice McDonald), of Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association would like to remind you to be a superhero by Slowing Down and Moving Over! Be sure to visit ResponderSafety.com for PIO and Public Educator Engagement tools. - Submitted by Dr. Candice McDonald
Rehoboth’s seven finish Basic Firefighting Skills (left to right) Robert Cook, Cole Fluharty, Nick Williams, Mike Capasso, Silas Chapman, Vaughn McCabe III. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Rehoboth firefighters after training at house to be demolished. - Submitted by Warren Jones
On November 11, 2020, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to North Jessup Street for a house fire. - Submitted by John Looney
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 27
Obituaries
Hockessin Fire Company Mourns Loss of Deputy Chief Emeritus Fred W. Long It’s with deep regret and sadness that Hockessin Fire Company announces the passing of one of our icons, and friend to all, Deputy Chief Emeritus Fred W. Long. Fred, who turned 80 this year, joined HFC in March 1959, and for those that spent any time as a HFC firefighter during those years, you knew Fred, fought fire with him, rode on an engine he drove, followed his direction at an incident, but most importantly, you listened to him and respected him. An active firefighter from the beginning, Fred’s first officer position was as 1st Assistant Chief Engineer from 1968-1970, then Chief Engineer for 2 years until moving up to 1st Assistant Chief in 1973. Fred was elected annually in that position through 1986, when the new position of Deputy Chief was created and held by Fred until he stepped down in 2006. He was promptly granted the title of Deputy Chief Emeritus after retiring. 1973 also marked the year Chief Emeritus David P. Roser began his run as Fire Chief. Fred was second in command to Dave and the pair led our Company together for 30 years, until Dave’s retirement in 2003. Fred also spent time on the Board of Trustees and numerous other committees including the Sunshine Committee, where he ensured someone experiencing a hospital stay or recovery received a flower arrangement from the Company.
Fred was also vital to the operation of Memorial Hall. Hired as the full-time custodian in 1971, and in the position until his passing, Fred handled every aspect of the behind the scenes work in the Hall. From cleaning & maintenance to set-up & tear-down, along with plenty of food prep and cooking in the early years. This too includes his help with hundreds of Ladies Auxiliary events. It’s tough to recall him ever missing a day of work, and it’s safe to say he had a hand in every event held in the Hall since the day he started. He knew every aspect of the building from top to bottom, and was the ‘go-to’ person when you needed anything. Back in his active firefighting days, Fred’s time in the Hall also led to him to either driving or riding the seat on daytime fire runs. Before the days of EMS staffing, he would often step in to drive the ambulance if a driver wasn't available. In the evenings, he could be found in the TV room, in his green chair, enjoying the occasional cigar or 2. All of this time at the Station led him to become one of HFCs all-time leading fire responders. Fred devoted his life to our Company, and we are forever indebted and grateful. Each and every one of us had a bond to Fred, and we all hurt with this loss. We will miss his laugh, miss stopping by the Kitchen to catch up, miss watching him dig into a Boston Creme or var-
ious sweets, miss seeing him working in the Hall, miss trying to find him when he would disappear to his still unknown hiding spot, miss eating lunch with him while watching Channel 6 news, miss him riding the seat of 192 at the 4th of July Parade, but overall, just miss him being there. Services are pending. - Submitted by Mark Felicetti
Felton Community Fire Company’s Joseph Samuel Hughes Felton - Joseph Samuel Hughes, 83, passed away on September 22, 2020 peacefully in his home. Joe was born August 8, 1937, the son of the late Paul Bryan Hughes Sr. and EllaBelle Warrington Hughes. He was a 5th generation farmer who loved and cared for the family farm where he was born, lived and died. He was a great steward of the land and was honored with multiple farmer-of-the-year awards and was part of many boards, commissions and advisory councils that worked to promote and conserve farms and farmland. Joseph lived his life on his own terms, doing what he wanted, when he wanted, and where he was happiest…on his land. Joe served in the U.S. Army as a mechanic in Ohio, where he met his wife, Donna Rae (Evans) Hughes. He was a nationally recognized folk artist whose traditional white oak basket work was displayed at the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery and featured in books and publications. He worked with the Delaware Archeology Society for many years and the Hughes Early Man Complex is a Paleo-Indian site that he discovered and was named after him. He was an avid conservationist and environmentalist who took joy in nature and all of its creatures. Though Joseph never went to college, he consumed knowledge constantly and probably read at least 100 non-fiction books a year. His love of literature and reading and his constant need to learn new things has
been passed down to his children. He was preceded by his wife, Donna Rae (Evans) Hughes; and his parents, Paul Sr. and EllaBelle Hughes. Joseph is survived by his two children, Elizabeth Hughes and Bryan Evans Hughes, both of Washington, D.C. His ashes were interred at a private family service at Hopkins Cemetery, Felton. Joe joined the FCFC April 1957, became a life member in 1992 and a 50 year member in 2007. This web site article was prepared on October 10, 2020 by Sandy Wood using information contained in Joe’s obituary published in the Delaware State News, October 1, 2020, and FCFC archive records. - Submitted by Robert Watts
Page 28, Fire News, December 2020
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DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Dover Police Recruits Attend DSFS Training
The Dover Police Department, for the first time in over 20 years, developed their own Police Recruit Class. On November 5 and 6, 2020, they attended the Delaware State Fire School for Law Enforcement Fire Survival Training. Eighteen students were on
hand and received their Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification and completed evolutions in ladders, structural fire behavior, sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Custodial Fire Safety Class The most recent class on Custodial Fire Safety was held on October 28, 2020, with 37 students in attendance. This program, required by school districts across the state, teaches basic principles of acting safely in the case of a fire. The course includes the use of a fire extinguisher and being able to recognize the beginning of a hazardous materials incident among other subjects. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Dover CoC Gets Firefighting Demo On November 5, 2020, the Dover Chamber of Commerce visited the Kent Training Center. They were able to tour the grounds as well as see a structural firefighting demonstration performed by the Dover Fire Department. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Fire School Drone Program Approved by NFPA The Delaware State Fire School is proud to announce that it has become accredited through the Pro Board on NFPA 2400-2019, Unmanned Air Vehicles, Pilot in Command and Visual Observer certifications. This certification is to assure those in the fire service achieve a minimum proficiency of effectively and safely operating UAVs (drones). The testing process developed will be worked out with the school’s current drone programs in the near future now that it has been approved. Thanks to Senior Instructor Tucker Dempsey for his work on this project, the school’s first entirely new standard in years. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Page 30, Fire News, December 2020
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DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Structural Firefighting Skills
A Structural Firefighting Skills class took place at the Delaware State Fire School beginning the weekend of October 17, 2020. Careful and intense planning took place by the Fire School Staff to insure a Covid compliant environment, as well as the best opportu-
nity for education. Eighty students were registered for the class as it was conducted within the new format for student registrations and class flow. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
New Pump Simulator Prop at Delaware State Fire School Delaware State Fire School staff continued training on props from its AFG awards. On October 13, 2020, they began training on their new FAAC Incorporated Pump Simulator. This prop will be able to allow students to be trained on realistic conditions in a controlled setting. It can be used in any kind of weather and without risk of damaging a pumper. It also allows for quicker turnaround time in between skills simulations, as no equipment needs to be repacked or refilled. Programs they are looking to add this prop to are Driver Operator training and possibly Pumper Operator Certification testing to start. This prop can be connected to other FAAC programs and props to allow for full scenarios. One program that it can be linked to is the Incident Command Software also received the same grant. The school will continue advanced training on the ICS program, and simulations will be getting developed to begin to put it into the officer programs in the future. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Staying Busy at DSFS The Delaware State Fire School continues to be active with its industrial programs. It has been running the regularly scheduled classes, like the 24-Hour HazMat Technician course, and also hosting their local industries in refreshing skills in structural firefighting, flammable liquids and gas firefighting, and hazardous materials incidents. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 31
TRAINING
Driver Training in Five Points
Accuracy Counts
Members Bruce Hamm, Mike Natrin and staff members Andrew Happer, Bob Harvey and Gordon Edwards were out on the ladder on September 21, 2020, doing some driver training. They worked on backing skills using traffic cones. While the drivers were working, Captain Thompson (above) went over ground ladder basics with junior members, Emilie Hamm and Angelina Sposato. - Submitted by Five Points FC
On September 2, 2020, firefighters from the Five Points Fire Company trained with their aerial ladder. They practiced setting the ladder with precision, the idea being to gauge the proper distance to place the hanging cone onto the stationary cone on the roof. This helped operators get a feel for the position of the ladder tip when placing at a window or roof edge. Doing it at night added another level of expertise! - Submitted by Five Points FC
Annual Obstacle Course Rehoboth drivers complete annual obstacle course. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Clayton Recognizes 5 for 2019 Rescue During the September company meeting five members were recognized for their efforts in rescuing a female from a 2019 residential fire in Clayton Courts. The fire, which occurred on Camden Circle in Clayton Courts destroyed the victim’s house. Emergency responders rescued two people from the home, one of whom succumbed to her injuries a month-and-a-half later. The members recognized were Captains Austin Moorhead and Jonathan Burnett, past-Chief Robert Davis and Firefighters Dave Ross and Jason Sacco. Representing the Eastern Division of the Betts, past-President Chief Jim Watson, and Vice-President Chief International Association of Fire Chiefs was past-President Chief Terry Jester. Past-Chief Davis was unable to attend the presentaPaul Sterling, past-President Chief Jon Townley, Delaware tion. - Photo courtesy Terry Jester; Submitted by Skip Carrow Director Stephan ‘Redman’ Maichle, past-President Chief Bill
Page 32, Fire News, December 2020
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TRAINING
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company Trains
- Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Hockessin FC Makes 3 Presentations at October Monthly Meeting
(Above and far right): Hockessin honored Career Firefighters William Krupa (left) and Jordan Edgerton (center) for their successful water rescue on August 4, 2020. during the flash flooding that occurred at Lantana Square. Deputy Chief Randy Broadwater noted, not only did they save a person from a submerged vehicle seconds before it was swept under, but both were already in their swift water rescue gear based on the forecast of severe weather. This shaved minutes off of their response and had them on-scene quickly. Both were given Heroic Firefighter Awards for their actions. (Seciond from left): Past President and HFC Historian, Terry Lake and his wife Barbara presented the company with a model of the first station. The handmade model, built by a craftsman in Lancaster
County, features details down to the siren post and phone box above the bay doors! Terry also spoke on the company’s early days and stories about the old station, which was the company’s headquarters from 1936 to 1958. Next month will mark the 84th anniversary of HFC.Special thanks to Terry and Barbara for their long-time work and dedication to our company’s history. (Second from right): Long time HFC member Wayne Ferrante was granted Fire Police Emeritus for his 25 years of responses as fire police. Wayne is moving on to become the company photographer. A member since 1978, Wayne has also held the position of company Secretary since 1983! Congrats Wayne-O! - Submitted by Mark Felicetti
Page 34, Fire News, December 2020
Obituaries
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Blades’ Robert Mullin The Blades Volunteer Fire Company was saddened at the passing of 67-year member Robert ‘Bob’ Mullin. Bob passed away October 3, 2020, after 67 years of faithful service to BVFC and surrounding communities. His stories of our history as a company and the Town of Blades were a wealth of knowledge. Bob will greatly be missed by all. - Submitted by Jason Hudson
Elsmere’s John Facciolo It is with deep regret that the officers and members of the Elsmere Fire Company announced the passing of Life Member John Facciolo. John was an active firefighter and EMT for over 20 years with the company. He is also the father of current Chief Mark Facciolo. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Facciolo family. - Story by Frank Maule, Picture by Janet Arnold Schuhart
The Fireman That Everyone Loved: Mike Rush Edward ‘Mike’ Rush, Jr., one of the most, respected members of the Delaware Fire Service lost a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease, passing away on October 27, 2020, at age 71. Mike’s life was a testament to faith, family and fire service. These three tenants were intertwined in his life like the material woven into the Class A uniforms he sold to firefighters over the years. Mike was a man of faith. He demonstrated that by the respect he had for the church and clergy. Over the years he would encourage firefighters to attend the Blue Mass, a special service for police and fire. He didn’t care if you were Catholic, or of another faith, or even a non-believer. Mike wanted you to experience the “Word” with fellow responders. Of course, there would be a big lunch following, that Mike would always announce, hoping to attract those who were reluctant, but might come if a meal was involved! Mike never preached. His faith in God was demonstrated by the life he led. Mike’s family was at the core of his existence. He started working at his father’s store while a teenager and built with his Dad, and later when he married Winnie, a most successful uniform business. Thousands of firefighters were customers, as too, were the public who came to the store for school uniforms and work clothing. Rush Uniform is a true family-run business operated to the highest ethical standards. Mike was proud that they were a founding member of the Better Business Bureau in Delaware. Mike’s mother Helen admired the fire service and especially the fire
police. The family, in her memory, presented a humanitarian award each year to a deserving fire police officer. Seldom does a business exemplify the level of support that Rush Uniform provides the community it serves. And then there was the fire service. Following his enlistment in the Marine Corps, Mike made a commitment to the Wilmington Manor and Christiania Fire Companies. He held fire line and administrative offices serving for 50 years. He joined and supported many state, regional and national fire service organizations. He wasn’t just a card-carrying member; he actively supported every group with which he was affiliated. As an instructor at the Delaware State Fire School he met and influenced firefighters from all corners of Delaware, making lifelong friends. When you met Mike at a fire service event, he would ask you, “How’s it going?” That wasn’t a hollow greeting. He was interested in you as a member of the fire service and as a friend. He asked you because he cared. There were never unkind words spoken about Mike Rush. He was a firemen’s fireman, respected and prized by all who knew him. His passing left a huge void. He will be remembered as the fireman everyone loved. (Above left): Hundreds of students from Christ the Teacher School, each holding an American Flag assembled as Mike’s funeral procession formed outside of St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church in Glasgow, Delaware. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Obituaries
Fire News, December 2020, Page 35
Rehoboth Beach’s Sudler Dill
Past-Fire Chief and Life Member Sudler Dill answered his last alarm on August 18, 2020, with his family by his side. ‘Dill’ was a 50-year member of the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company where he served his community with honor and dignity.
A memorial service was held on September 5, 2020, at Station 1 downtown, with graveside services held privately. - Submitted by Chuck Snyder
Mahoney-Roche a First for Holloway Terrace On October 13, 2020, Melissa Mahoney-Roche was sworn in as a Fire Police Officer for the Holloway Terrace Fire Company. Swearing in was conducted by New Castle County Sheriff Scott Phillips. Missy (209B) is the first woman to serve in a fire police role in the company’s history. - Submitted by Randy Roberts
Claymont to Get New Apparatus Claymont Fire Company is proud to announce its contract with Pierce and Atlantic Emergency Solutions to replace Ladder 13. This time next year, the apparatus committee should be ready for final inspection of the new Tower 13. Tower 13 will be a 100-foot mid-mount Pierce Ascendant. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Page 36, Fire News, December 2020
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2020 Delaware State Fire Chiefs Awards
(Note: Following are condensed versions of the nominations for the advised of a fire in the ceiling of the basement of a two-story, single2020 Delaware State Fire Chiefs Award for Heroics. - Ed.) family dwelling, with smoke showing. Engine 18’s officer deployed an attack line through the front door and began suppression in the baseSouth Bowers Fire Company ment. Engine 23 stretched a second line and Engine 222 arrived and On June 30, 2020, at 1445, Michael Hignutt, an Assistant Chief with went through the front door, while Engine 12 went through side A. the South Bowers Fire Company was fishing on the South Bowers Ladder 28 laddered and ventilated the basement and Tower 12 made Beach near the Murderkill River with his cousin Timothy Smith, a civil- access through the rear of the sun room where the operator was met with ian. They were at the area for a couple of minutes when they heard fire conditions on the first floor. Engines 18 and 23 encountered heavy fire conditions in the basescreams from three subjects who fell off the jetty channel bags and into the water. Due to the high current of the Murderkill River, the three, ment, which was difficult to access due to a cut-up basement with parwho could not swim, were unable to maneuver the incoming tide. titions. Engine 12 and Tower 12 had fire on the first floor, as well as a Hignutt radioed Kent Center that he had one out of the water, then real- hole in the kitchen floor, which was at the top of the basement stairs. ized that a frantic female, a friend of one of the victims, was in the During this time Engine 18 officer and Squad 23 officer became low water. He entered the water to help the two victims still in the water. on air in the basement and became disoriented. Michael and Timothy pulled the female from the water. The two remainSquad 23 officer called a Mayday. Tower 12 officer (Lombardo) ing people disappeared in the Murderkill River. Tower 12 operator (Shanahan) descended the basement stairs and Hignutt assumed Command 57 of the incident requesting multiple Captain Shanahan was able to locate both firefighters in the basement rescue boats, rescue swimmers and dive teams. This incident involved and guide them outside where they were evaluated by EMS. multiple agencies including the Delaware State Police, Delaware Fish - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait, Chief Christiana FC and Wildlife Police, and the US Coast Guard. Hignutt continued in command of the incident until it eventually turned from a rescue to a recov- Laurel Fire Department ery in the late evening hours, ending the SAR around 2100 hours. On May 21, 2020, at approximately 1630, the Laurel Fire On July 1 at 0900 hours, Hignutt resumed command to search for the Department was alerted for a rescue of a subject trapped under a vehitwo victims thought to still be in the Murderkill River; the two deceased cle. The initial report was for a subject pinned under a vehicle due to the were located just before 1100. jack collapsing while he was working on the vehicle. Mutual aid was Michael Hignutt is a lifetime member of the Delaware Volunteer Fire requested from the Blades Fire Company for a rescue assist due to a Service, serving over 30 years as an extremely active member. He has manpower issue. devoted his life to the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service and has obviousFirefighter Aaron Carey chose to stop at the scene and attempt to renly risked it many times without hesitation. He deserves to be recognized der assistance while waiting for the EMS and fire crews to arrive. On in the highest manner. his arrival, Officers Granadas and Howard from the Laurel Police Timothy Smith, a courageous civilian, was acting as a Good Department also arrived. The three made their way to where it was Samaritan, risking his own life to save another in distress. Smith is an reported the subject was trapped. On arrival at the area they found the example of a true hero and deserves to be recognized in the highest male trapped beneath a vehicle and was not believed to be breathing at the time. manner. Without due regard, Firefighter Carey and Officer Howard were able - Submitted by the South Bowers VFC to lift the vehicle enough to allow Officer Granadas to drag the victim out from beneath the vehicle. Once out from under the vehicle, they Christiana Fire Company On January 31, 2019, at 0623, Tower and Engine 12 were dispatched stayed with the subject and made sure his airway was patent while waitto Bunker Hill Road in Penn Acres South for a house fire. Engine 18 ing for EMS crews to arrive. SCEMS and the Laurel EMS crews arrived Continues on next page
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 37
Clayton Chief New Delaware State Fire Chief’s Director
During the September quarterly meeting of the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association held in Cheswold on September 17, 2020, Fire Chief Alex Carrow of the Clayton Fire Company was sworn in as a director of the association. Chief Carrow is one of many past Clayton members who has served the state fire chiefs over the years. Chief Carrow was sworn in by his father-in-law and former President of the State Fire Chiefs Kevin L. Wilson, and was pinned by his cousin, past-Chief Robbie Brode of the Harrington Fire
Company. The members of Clayton would like to congratulate Chief Carrow on his accomplishment. Alex comes from a fire service family, and is a fourth-generation firefighter. His grandfather and father were both former Chiefs and past Presidents of Clayton, and his grandmother and mother served in the ladies auxiliary; his wife Ashley is an active member of the company. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
Elsmere’s Jack Parisi Honored for Save On October 5, 2020, at the monthly meeting of the Elsmere Fire Company Life Member Jack Parisi was presented a Meritorious Service award by the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association. This award was for saving the life of a bedridden civilian at a house fire in May. The officers and members of the company would like to congratulate Jack! - Submitted by Frank Maule
Continued from previous page and began rendering care to the patient. Once he was stabilized, he was transported to Nanticoke Hospital with possible neck and airway injuries. I honestly believe if it had not been for the heroic actions of these three, the outcome of this incident would have been much more severe. After spending several days in the hospital the subject was released without any extenuating issues, and is doing well today. For these reasons I would like to place the names of Aaron Carey, Corporal Carlos Granadas (LPD), and PFC Daniel Howard (LPD) in nomination for heroic firefighter of the year for the Sussex County Fire Chiefs Association. - Submitted by Jeff Hill, Chief Laurel FD Elsmere Fire Company On the morning of May 31, 2020, at around 1030, Station 16 and mutual aid units were dispatched to the 2600 block of Frederick Avenue for a house fire. Engine 16, Ladder 16, A-16, and 16-8 all made the response within seconds. While units were en route, Fireboard advised that they were receiving additional calls reporting a bedridden occupant trapped. Chief Mark Facciolo (16-8) reported a single-story residence with heavy smoke showing. Engine 16 arrived and began to stretch a line. and Engine 14 arrived and stretched a second handline. Ladder 16
arrived as the first special service and made entry into the residence to begin a search. While Engine 16 was stretching their line, they found off-duty member Jack Parisi, who lives down the street from the dispatched address, had entered the structure without the protection of fire gear and a hoseline, and was able to make his way through the smoke to the rear bedroom where the victim was located. Firefighter Parisi, with the assistance of the victim’s son, were able to get the victim to the kitchen on the Delta-door side. Firefighter Parisi then opened the door and the crew from Engine 16 found Parisi was in need of assistance. Engine 16 officer (Captain Vincent Games) and Engine 16 back up (Firefighter Trevor Fagan) assisted Firefighter Parisi with the removal of the victim, who was turned over to EMS. The patient was transported with minor injuries. While the rescue was being made, Engine 16 nozzleman (Firefighter Michael Wiktorowicz, Jr.,) and the crews of Engine 14 and Engine 23, began to extinguish the fire located in the rear of the structure and the attic. Ladder 16 continued to search the structure which proved negative. Several minutes later ladder 16 officer (Assistant Chief Michael Edwards) advised, the bulk of the fire was extinguished. Crews operated on scene for about two hours. - Submitted by Mark R. Facciolo, Chief Elsmere FC
Page 38, Fire News, December 2020
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Hundreds Attend Move Over Law Demonstration
In a sea of high visibility vests, firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS and tow truck drivers joined together as one voice in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on September 8, 2020, to push for Pennsylvania’s Steer Clear Law to be rebranded as the Move Over Law and to establish a point system for Move Over violations and doubling the fines. This legislation — Senate Bill 1281 — was introduced by Senators Doug Mastriano and Kim Ward. The loved ones of the lost spoke to the crowd about the fallen. The event started with a parade of almost a hundred fire, police and towing apparatus in
the capitol. This was followed by the family of Tyler Laudenslager, a Halifax firefighter, husband, young father, and a tow truck driver whose life was ended when he was struck and killed by a driver, which spoke to raise awareness of line-of-duty deaths caused by vehicles. Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association (CVVFA) members from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware and Illinois traveled to the rally to stand in unity with their brothers and sisters. Doctor Candice McDonald, 2nd Vice-President of CVVFA,
represented the Emergency Responder Safety Institute and addressed the crowd to voice support for the passing of this bill. CVVFA has been active in addressing this issue for more than 20 years and has provided thousands with tactics to operate in a safer manner through ResponderSafety.com. - Photos by Yvette Graham; submitted by Dr. Candice McDonald
Clayton Receives Sarbanes Award On October 28, 2020, the Clayton Fire Company received the Paul Sarbanes Safety Award from Executive Director of the CFSI Bill Webb and Director of the NFFF Ron Sarnicki. The Paul Sarbanes Safety Award was one of only three awards given this year. The award was presented for the department’s cancer awareness and member safety program started by Clayton several years ago. President Kevin L. Wilson stated, “We have been doing this for over twenty years when past-Chief and Safety Officer Rodney Whalen obtained a washer and dryer for our members to use, long before we realized that we were trying to prevent cancer.” The company also recently purchased barrier hoods to better protect its interior firefighters from harmful products, and have taken a big part in educating our members on the dangers associated with cancer-caus-
ing byproducts. Governor Carney was on hand, as well as Senator Bruce Ennis and Representative Bill Carson and many other Delaware Fire Service officials. The members would like to thank the CFSI and NFFF for choosing Clayton as one of the three winners. - Submitted by Skip Carrow
Lowe’s of Camden Hosts Safety Day On October 10, 2020, the Lowe’s Store of Camden hosted a Safety Day. Lowe’s staff provided giveaway bags for the children who attended as well as set up for the event. The Camden-Wyoming Fire Department, Kent County EMS and the Delaware State Fire School participated with informational displays for those who attended. Pictured are Lowe’s staff and members of the Camden-Wyoming Fire Department. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Elsmere Service Awards On October 5, 2020, at the monthly meeting of the Elsmere Fire Company, President Ken Dunn, Sr., presented members with their service awards for 2020. The following members were awarded: Douglas Briggs, Michael Wiktorowicz, Jr., Luis Colon and Joshua Rosa (five years); Krista Foulke and Dylan Harper (10 years); Gabe Bukowski (15); Mark Facciolo and Stephen Facciolo (20); Todd Reese (25); Nicholas Rodriguez and Denise Zielinski (30); Matt Schaal (35); Patrick Giles, Thomas Kapa and Frank Southard (40); Todd Finch, Dennis Godek and Patrick Ramone (50); John F. Maloney (55); Warren Jones and Roger Mclaren (60). Congratulations from the officers and members! - Submitted by Frank Maule
Laurel Firefighters and Police Officers Honored for Role in Rescue
On September 28, 2020, President of the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association, Steven Deery and Committee Chairman James Watson were present at the Laurel Fire Department for an awards ceremony honoring members of the Laurel Fire Department and Laurel Police Department who took part in the rescue that saved the life of a Laurel resident on May 21, 2020. At approximately 1630, the Laurel Fire Department and Sussex County EMS were alerted for a residential rescue in the 500 block of East Fourth Street. Firefighter/Engineer Aaron Carey and Laurel Police Officers Daniel Howard and Carlos Grandas found an individual trapped under a vehicle due to the collapse of a jack. Carey and Howard were able to lift the vehicle enough to have Officer Grandas and Officer Riley Parker slide the victim free to the care of Assistant Chief of EMS Doug Butler and Firefighter EMT Leah Croy. The victim was transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital and suffered no long-term effects from the incident. Everyone at the Laurel Fire Department the Town of Laurel and the Laurel Police Department are proud to have these members. Great job to all involved! - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Fire News, December 2020, Page 39
Delaware Fire Commission Honors Ingle Delaware Fire Commission Chairman Ron Marvel presented Fire Marshal Grover P. Ingle with his declaration and pin for 30 years of dedicated state service. The Fire Commission thanked Fire Marshal Ingle for his dedication. He is a tremendous asset to not only the Fire Commission and agency, but every citizen that visits and lives in Delaware. - Submitted by Ron Marvel
Clayton Gets Grant from Sinise Foundation
The Clayton Fire Company was recently awarded a grant from the Gary Sinse Foundation for the purchase of 2 FAST Rescue Solutions rescue boards. The FAST rescue boards are another tool that allows an easier removal of downed firefighters or rapid egress of a patient from a dangerous area. Both boards were purchased with monies awarded from the Sinise Foundation. The Clayton Fire Company would like to thank the foundation for their generous grant, and Chris Simpson from FAST Rescue Solutions for his help with this project. - Submitted by Skip Carrow
Times, They Are a Changin’
Claymont Community Safety Work
Recently, a few Claymont Fire Company members, along with New Castle County Police, set up in the Knollwood section of town, where they gave out 19 smoke detectors to those in need and spoke to children about fire safety. They discussed having an exit plan from your home, a meeting place outside and Stop, Drop and Roll. It was a good day with some great weather to get out and meet their residents. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
A rare occurrence in the Delaware Fire Service is a fire station closing. Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company decommissioned Fire Station 8 in August 2020. The company will reduce its footprint from four to three stations and close Aetna Hall located in the same building in an effort to “right-size” the company to meet the needs of a much different Newark than when the building was first constructed. In its heyday, four pieces of apparatus and an ambulance filled the house. All were staffed by home response. Over the past several years, because of traffic, responders could barely reach the station. Changing demographics left very few members living in proximity. Station 8 was dedicated on October 12, 1963. No other fire company in Delaware, outside of the Wilmington Fire Department, operated out of multiple stations. The 1973 and 1988 DVFA Conventions were held in this building. The property is under contract to a developer who intends to demolish it and construct a retail establishment. - Submitted by Steve Austin
Page 40, Fire News, December 2020
Cheswold Honors 50-Year Member Geraldine Lynch The Cheswold Ladies Auxiliary was proud to celebrate Geraldine Lynch for 50 years of service. ‘Jerry’ has been a very active and dedicated member and has held the office of President, Vice-President and, for 25 years, was Recording Secretary as well as Historian. Jerry also brought into the auxiliary her two daughters, who are now life members, and a granddaughter. She truly exemplifies the meaning of the word volunteer. We are proud to add her to our list of 50-year members. - Submitted by Dorothy Dempsey
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Sussex County Emergency Services Install Officers for 2020-2021 At the October meeting of the Sussex County Firefighters Association, hosted by the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company, officers were installed for the coming year. Officers for the County Firefighters will be: President - Jim Arrington, Bridgeville; 1st Vice-President - Russell Hooper, Jr., Roxana; 2nd Vice-President David Ruff, Blades; Secretary - Guy Hudson, Roxana; and Treasurer Ray Stevens, Selbyville County Fire Chiefs: President - Joe Thompson, III, Indian River. County Fire Police: President - Wayne Bowden, Dagsboro. County Ambulance Association: President - Jill Brittingham, Dagsboro. Pictured are the County Firefighters Association officers being installed by Chief Jack Cannon, of Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company: President Jim Arrington, 1st Vice-President Russell Hooper, Jr., 2nd Vice-President David Ruff, Secretary Guy Hudson, pastPresident Doug Hudson, Treasurer Ray Stevens and West Director Elmer Steele. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Companies Receive Donation from Burrsville Ruritan
On October 8, 2020, the Harrington Fire Company along with the Farmington, Greenwood and Greensboro (Caroline County, MD) fire companies were all presented donations from the Burrsville Ruritan Club at their regular monthly meeting. Following a wonderful dinner served by Ruritan, each company was presented with their donation. This is an annual event that the Ruritan does for
these companies. We are very thankful to have the wonderful support we get from the Ruritan Club and our community. Thank you again for your support. Accepting the donation on behalf of the Harrington Fire Company(above) was Deputy Chief Kenny Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Special Olympics Truck Convoy
On September 26, 2020, the annual Delaware Special Olympics Truck Convoy was held in Harrington. The event started at the Delaware State Fairgrounds from where the trucks traveled a route that when through the Harrington and Felton areas and ended up back at the fairgrounds. This year there was close to 200 trucks that participated. We would like to thank Special Olympics-Delaware for putting on such a wonderful event and all the people who came out to support it. A special thanks to the following organizations that assisted us this year with the convoy:
Fire Police (Kent and Sussex Counties); Del-Dot; Harrington Police; Milford Police (Patrol and Motor Units); Felton Police; Harrington Fire Company; Greenwood Fire Company; Camden; Wyoming Fire Company; Frederica Fire Company; Memorial Fire Company (Slaughter Beach); Bowers Fire Company; Felton Fire Company; Town of Felton; Delaware State Police (Patrol and Motor Units) Hope to see everyone next year and thank you for your continued support! - Submitted by Earl Brode
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Fire News, December 2020, Page 41
Rehoboth Beach Hosts Fire Prevention Week Event
On October 4, 2020, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, partnered with the Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition to host a Fire Prevention Week Event at Rehoboth’s Station 1. The highlight of the event were demonstrations by the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board. Their demonstration showed an actual sprinkler activation with a fire starting in a trash can. Michael Wilson of the National Fire Sprinkler Association gave a demonstration on sprinklers and how effective they can be in homes that are on fire. One of the misconceptions that some people have is that excessive smoke is what causes the sprinklers to activate, but he explained it is excessive heat that allows the sprinklers to go off. People stuck in a fire want to avoid a point called flashover, which occurs three
Claymont Distributes Smoke Detectors The Claymont Fire Prevention team were in the Radnor Green section of town giving away smoke detectors. Members distributed 43 detectors, and assisted five homeowners with installation. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
to five minutes from when the fire starts. According to the Sprinkler Association, no one survives when a flashover occurs. Sprinklers greatly increase the odds of escaping. “Fire sprinklers are by far the most important way of ensuring that you can get out of your house safely,” Wilson said. “Smoke alarms, while they will alert you to a fire, are not going to clear the way in the event a fire is blocking your way out.” Local legislators, including Delaware Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf, Senator Ernie Lopez and Mayor Stan Mills, were present to gather information regarding the importance of the protection offered by residential fire sprinklers and support the Fire Safety programs. - Submitted by Michael Lowe & Chuck Snyder
Page 42, Fire News, December 2020
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Fire Marshal’s Report Two Kent County Fires Investigated B. Scott Bullock, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office investigated two residential fires that occurred on Sunday, November 22, 2020 in Kent County. The first fire occurred shortly before 1400 in the 100 block of Sunrise Drive in the Jockey Hollow development in Clayton. The Clayton Fire Company arrived to heavy fire involving a two-story single-family dwelling. Assistance was requested from several neighboring DE and MD fire companies. Deputy State Fire Marshals responded to investigate the cause of the fire and determined the fire began on the exterior of the home when embers from an unattended fire pit spread to the dwelling. No injuries were reported and damages are estimated at $150,000. The second fire occurred at 1605 in the 200 block of Melissa Street in the Alexanders Village development in Magnolia. The Magnolia Fire Company responded to the fire and arrived to heavy fire and smoke involving the attached garage with extension into the dwelling. The Felton and Camden-Wyoming Fire Companies responded to assist. Damages are estimated at $100,000.
Auto Center Damaged by Fire in Delmar John M. Galaska, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a structure fire that damaged a commercial property in Delmar on November 17, 2020. The fire, reported shortly before 1300, occurred to the structure in the 8000 block of Waller Road at Delmar Auto Center. The Delmar Fire Department arrived on the scene and found smoke and flames coming from two structures at the property. Mutual aid fire companies assisted at the scene. The investigation revealed that the fire was accidental in nature and was
caused by open burning that spread into the adjacent structures. Fire damage is estimated at $250,000. The structures were occupied at the time of the fire. One subject was treated for smoke inhalation.
Fatal Fire in Wilmington Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated an apartment building fire that occurred on October 27, 2020, in Wilmington and killed a 70-year-old woman. The blaze, reported shortly before 1800, occurred in the 300 block of North Maryland Avenue. The Five Points Fire Company arrived on the scene to find smoke pouring from the three-story structure. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $100,000. The cause of the fire remained under investigation.
Seaford Storage Structure Damaged by Fire John M. Galaska, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a fire that damaged a storage structure located in Seaford on October 17, 2020. The fire, reported shortly after 0100, occurred in the 300 block of Virginia Avenue and damaged a storage structure located on the property of the Western Sussex Boys and Girls Club. The Seaford Volunteer Fire Department arrived on the scene and found smoke and flames coming from the structure. Mutual aid fire companies assisted at the scene. State fire investigators were called to the scene and performed an investigation to determine the fire’s origin and cause. The cause of the fire has been identified as an accidental electrical malfunction on the interior of the structure. Fire damage is estimated at $50,000.
Fire and EMS Community Thanks Carol Faedtke on Her Retirement After 39 years of dedicated service to ChristianaCare and the Delaware Fire and EMS community, Carol Faedtke is retiring as the Prehospital Services Manager. Carol started her nursing career at age 12 as a volunteer with the Wilmington Medical Center. She graduated the Nursing School of Wilmington in December 1991. Her first nursing assignment was on the neurosurgery floor. She transitioned from neurosurgery to the ER in 1986, and in 1988 she entered the world of EMS and became a Paramedic Preceptor for New Castle County. In 1994, she returned to the Emergency Department and became one of the first Mobile Intensive Care Nurses (MICN) for ChristianaCare. Carol can proudly say that she was on the first MICN ambulance run, and the first MICN flight with DSP Aviation. Many people don’t realize that Carol is one of the key players responsible for nurses being able to work outside of a hospital. Carol was part of a group that petitioned the Board of Nursing to recognize MICN nurses, and that these nurses should be allowed to follow protocols outside of the hospital; performing such skills as intubation, surgical cricothyrotomies, and other EMS interventions when on interfacility transfers. In addition, Carol was part of the team that transitioned Delaware from Ambulance Attendants to EMTs. Carol flew many MICN missions with DSP Aviation during her time as an MICN nurse, growing her love for EMS and aviation. In 2000, Carol became Chief Flight Nurse and assisted with the implementation of the LifeNet 6-1 critical care helicopter, which completed its first
flight in 2001. Carol furthered her education in 2003 being awarded a Masters of Jurisprudence in Health Law from Widener Law School. In 2006, Carol placed LifeNet 6-4 in service in Georgetown, Delaware, and we saw the implementation of the ChristianaCare MICN ground team ambulances. In addition, Carol oversaw the implementation of the ChristianaCare Transfer Center, which coordinates all transports in and out of Christiana Hospital and handles hundreds of phone calls a day. The transport team has grown from 300 missions its first year to a combined MICN ground and flight team 6,000 transports a year. Carol has created an entire system of ambulances and helicopters that move Delaware’s and surrounding state’s patients between a network of regional hospitals. Carol has been a key player in the Delaware Trauma System, and has been involved with the state trauma committee for many years. Never far from her EMS roots, Carol has continued to precept paramedic students and is regional faculty for American Heart Association and the National Association of EMTs. In 2011, Carol was appointed by Governor Markell to serve in a medical advisory capacity on EMS matters to the state Fire Commission. Carol has shared her knowledge with the EMS community as a PHTLS instructor and has presented multiple times at the State Trauma Symposium and the DVFA conference. Carol Faedtke retires from service having made her mark on the Delaware EMS system, and through her actions and leadership; improving the outcomes of tens of thousands of patients within the Delaware healthcare system. The Delaware Fire and EMS community thank Carol for her leadership and wish her well in retirement. - Submitted by Jeffery Cox, Flight Paramedic