Serving DELAWARE Serving Fire, Rescue
VOLUME 23, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973 APRIL 2020
See story on page 37. - Submitted by Ken LaBelle
Helpful COVID-19 Information Please see pages 4 & 49
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 3
In this issue... Multiple Injuries at Fire in Bear On February 29, 2020, Christiana Fire Company, along with automatic aid companies, were dispatched for a residential structure fire in Buckley. See story on page 10
Wind-Assisted Trailer Fire
The Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to assist the Felton Fire Company with a trailer fire on Burnite Mill Road, west of Felton. See story on page 11
MVC with Overturn On March 14, 2020, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to an MVC with overturn on Costal Highway in the vicinity of the old Coast Guard Station. See story on page 18
Car into Brandywine River Claymont Fire Company units were alerted to a unknown vehicle in the Brandywine River. See story on page 25
Sussex County EMS Scores Bronze in the 2020 JEMS Games
On March 5, 2020, Sussex County paramedics found themselves again competing in the annual JEMS Games. See story on page 32
Obituaries Harrington’s Melvin R. Wyatt Holloway Terrace’s Dorothy Romano Carlisle’s Chuck Coverdale Millsboro’s Norman Batchelor See story on pages 46-48
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 33 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50
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.
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 ........... 11 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ....................... 5, 17, 26, 27, 35, 51 Delaware State Senate Democratic Caucus ...................................... 23 Delaware House Democratic Caucus ...................................... 19 Delaware House Republican Caucus ...................................... 21 DPC ................................. 2, 31, 52 Emergency Respnder Reply System ....................................... 22 ESI ............................................ 13 Fire & Rescue Products ............. 4
Fire, Rescue & EMS Today Podcast ..................................... 41 Firehouse Expo .......................... 7 Firehouse Kitchen .................... 25 Provident Agency Inc. .............. 4 Roll N Rack ............................... 37 Rush Uniforms ......................... 13 Senator Chris Coons ................. 18 Sutphen ....................................... 9 Terry Farrell ........................... Firefighters Fund .................... 39 The Fire Store ............................ 8 VCI ............................................ 15 ZiaMatic .................................... 25
Page 4, Fire News, April 2020
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Proactive? Last month, my Fire News editorial addressed my concerns about Covid-19, the Corona Virus. Almost at the same time, the numerous first responder departments in conjunction with health departments have also addressed it. As cases are increasing, many organizations are cancelling events such as parades and sporting events. Should games be cancelled? Should games be played with no spectators? In order to be proactive about Covid-19, everything is on the table to hinder the spread of the virus. However, being proactive isn’t just about health emergencies or Covid-19. A proactive leader recognizes potential problems and focuses on preventing them before they arise. Reactive management deals with problems after they arise or happen, without planning for the future. Flying by the seat of your pants can be dangerous and have devasting results to responders. Can you think of a few people in your department who have set the example of being proactive? I give thanks to people like Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn (retired FDNY), who, for as long as I can remember, has addressed issues that can negatively effect firefighters. His numerous books on a variety of topics, along with his YouTube videos,
have addressed issues that could have detrimental effects on all responders. My editorial is not about Chief Dunn, however, although I do think you should review his books and videos. It is about the mindset of thinking ahead and asking “what if?” I recently attended a Fire Bell Club of NY meeting. The club’s guest speaker, FDNY Assistant Chief Joseph Jardin, spoke about the numerous areas that the Bureau of Fire Prevention is addressing to be proactive in the City of New York. When the class was over, I gave thought to what other departments are doing to be proactive in the firerescue and emergency services. My hometown is growing in leaps and bounds. It seems that every piece of vacant land is being built upon. Lightweight truss construction creates concerns for all firefighters. Have you inspected the new construction in your area? Have you talked with fire marshals regarding the issues of new construction? Have you looked at seasonal construction, such as Halloween horror houses and “fright walks?” Many use materials that are flammable to create partitions that block or divert the walking path of visitors. Chief Jardin pointed out some of the issues and concerns with escape rooms, ones in
which a team of players cooperatively discover clues, solve puzzles, and accomplish tasks in one or more rooms in order to progress and accomplish a timed specific goal. It is definitely a fun event, but many times alterations are made to the rooms that could have a potentially dangerous outcome if something was to go wrong. If you have these forms of entertainment in your district, it is your best interest to be proactive and inspect the facility for possible safety issues. I encourage everyone to take a look at their fire districts proactively in order to prevent situations where you have to react without the knowledge of changes made that might be dangerous to the public and to firefighters. Be Safe, Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, April 2020
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Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office COVID-19: The impact of the Coronavirus has forced the postponement of events throughout Delaware and United States, including the CFSI Dinner and Visit with Senator Coons at CFSI, both of which are discussed below. Check DVFASSN.com for updates on these events and for numerous resources regarding COVID-19. Additionally, the Scholarship due date has been extended until April 30, 2020. CFSI: The Annual Congressional Fire Services Institute Event and Dinner is April 29 and 30, 2020. The dinner is Thursday, April 30. This event supports the CFSI yearly operations. The work they do in supporting the fire service in Washington is fantastic. They are our voice in DC, and Delaware has always been one of the largest supporters. This year the Clayton Fire Company is being honored with
an award. Let’s show our support for Clayton and the CFSI and join the others from Delaware at this year’s dinner. The forms are on the website. Visit with Senator Coons: This year on Thursday, April 30, 2020, at the CFSI, the DVFA has arranged for us to visit with Delaware Senator Coons in his Senate Office Building. After the visit we have arranged a tour of the capitol visitor center. We need to be at the Coons’ office building at 1215. If you are interested please contact the DVFA Office. Conference 2020: The dates for Conference 2020 are September 14-18, 2020, at Dover Downs. Plans are in the works for some great seminars by the State Chiefs and the DVFA in addition to two days of EMS seminars by the State EMS Association. When plans are completed they will be posted to the
DVFA Website (starting in May). 100th Anniversary: Next year — 2021 — is the 100th Anniversary of the DVFA. A 100th Anniversary Committee has already started to work on this Centennial Conference. They are gathering old pictures of each fire company and pictures old or new of any DVFA Event. If you have anything please scan the photos and forward them to the DVFA Office. Thank you. If there is anything the DVFA Office can do for you please contact the office. Thank you and be safe. Warren Jones Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566 (cell) 302-734-9404 (fax)
DVFA President by Norman Jones Jr., President, DVFA I just want to use the platform to address and thank all the first responders and support staffs, in our state, on how they have been handling this Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic. It would seem like communities have gone mad, but the emergency services has stayed calm and steady. When it comes to preparation and a hope for a quick bounce back to the normal, we cannot
be overly optimistic. This is a complete change of lifestyle and we are functioning on a day-today basis right now. With social distancing, regularly scheduled meetings are being canceled or postponed or switched to teleconferencing. Our sense of normal has been shaken. Everything seemed to be slowed down. I'm proud to say our emergency services have not missed a beat. I know this time is difficult for a lot of families. I'm excited for the reconnection of family that we sometimes lose track of due to our work as first responders. While on duty we are ready and prepared. I encourage our membership, when off duty, to make and share special memories with their
loved ones, who a lot of times may be taken for granted. Our country and the world will get through this and that is a fact. However, much of that depends on our actions on- and offduty. Once again the emergency services have shown by example how we step up in a time of need. Whether we personally feel that things are being blown out of proportion or not, we do what we have to do. During times like this it has been proven again that you all are the every-day heroes who keep the world going around. Thank you all for your service!
LADVFA Corner by Karen Workman, President LADVFA With banquet season starting to slow down, I would like to take the opportunity to thank the auxiliary members for their invitations. I have enjoyed attending all that I was able to, as did
my officers representing me in my absence. I would also like to congratulate all auxiliary members and firefighters who received service awards and special recognition awards. As we are in the middle of a world-wide pandemic, it has made me think more about the roles we play in our communities. Currently, we are having to cancel many gatherings and
fundraisers we need to continue the work we do. However, we continue to work together with our first responders to provide necessary services to the residents of Delaware in a different way. We are adapting to our community needs, as we always do. Please stay safe and take care of yourselves, as you take care of others.
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4 Displaced by Wilmington Fire On January 24, 2020, at 1526, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were alerted to a residential structure fire on North Jessup Street. Units arrived to find fire showing from a two-story, middle-of-the-row dwelling. Crews from Squad 4 and Squrt 3 immediately made an aggressive interior attack, finding fire conditions inside a second-floor bedroom. Battalion Chief Timothy Perkins arrived and requested a fourth engine for RIT. The crews from Ladder 1 and Engine 5 performed searches of all floors, finding no one inside. The scene was placed under control at 1608. The dwelling sustained significant fire and smoke damage. The adjoining dwellings sustained minor smoke damage. The American Red Cross responded to provide aid for three adults and one child displaced by the fire. - Submitted by John Looney
Quick Work at Minquas Bedroom Fire On February 6, 2020, just after 1200, Minquas Station 23 and surrounding units were dispatched to the 200 block of Airport Road for a residential fire. Squad 23, Engine 23, Rescue 23, and Deputy Chief 23 responded. Units arrived to smoke showing from a single-family dwelling. Squad 23 placed a line in service and made quick work of a bedroom fire with assistance from Engine 28. Searches were negative and companies operated for around 90 minutes. Deputy 23 had the Newport Command. - Submitted by Dominick Mills
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Multiple Injuries at Fire in Bear
searches. ALS and BLS units removed the two victims, both as trauma codes. When initial searches of the first floor were partially completed, Chief Cowperthwait temporarily changed to a defensive attack. Two 2-1/2 inch lines and the masterstream from Tower 12 were utilized to knock down the fire allowing crews to re-enter and complete extinguishment. Eight patients were transported with burns and/or smoke inhalation, two of whom were transferred to At 2342 hours on February 29, 2020, Christiana Fire Company, the Crozer Burn Center in Chester (PA). Eight BLS and five ALS along with automatic aid companies, were dispatched for a residen- units were utilized. Companies operated for over four hours and the tial structure fire in the community of Buckley. Units arrived to find residence was destroyed. Responding companies were: Christiana, a two-story single-family residence with heavy fire throughout the Wilmington Manor, Goodwill, Delaware City, Minquas, DE Air first and second floors with two critically injured people on the Guard. front lawn. An interior attack was initiated in order to attempt - Submitted by Dennis Godek
Elsmere Handles Dryer Fire On February 15, 2020, the Elsmere Fire Company was dispatched to the unit block of Sanders Road for a commercial fire. Upon arrival, units found a single-story commercial strip with smoke showing. Clothing was found inside a dryer on fire, and the fire was extinguished. - Submitted by Frank Maule
House Fire on Omni Drive On February 16, 2020, Cheswold, Dover, and Hartly fire companies were dispatched to a house fire on Omni Drive. Command 43 arrived to a single-story residence with smoke showing. Dover Engine 6 placed a handline in service on the main floor. Cheswold Engine 43-3 took a line to the basement when the 360 size up located fire there. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
Millsboro, Indian River Knockdown Mount Joy Fire
Recently, the Millsboro Fire and Indian River Fire companies able to quickly bring the blaze under control. - Submitted by Larry Gum responded to a house fire in the Mount Joy area. All occupants of the home were safely evacuated prior to units’ arrival. Crews were
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 11
Wind-Assisted Trailer Fire
On February 27, 2020, at 1534, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to assist the Felton Fire Company with a trailer fire on Burnite Mill Road, west of Felton. Firefighters arrived to a fully involved trailer. Due to high winds the fire had also spread to a nearby barn. Engine 50-5, Tanker 50-2, Utility 50-8 and A-50 responded on the assist. - Submitted by Earl Brode and Kevin Sipple; photos courtesy of Danielle Scott
Page 12, Fire News, April 2020
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In-District Building Fire
Just before 1000, on February 26, 2020, Engine 17 was alerted for an automatic fire alarm at the La Cabana Restaurant in the Canby Park Shopping Center. Engine 17 arrived and reported smoke showing from the roof. While the box alarm was being dispatched, the E-17 driver secured a water supply from a nearby hydrant while the crew stretched a handline and forced entry into the building. Inside they found a small kitchen fire that had been controlled by the sprinkler system. The hose crew extinguished the fire completely as assisting units were arriving. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Fire, MVC, Injuries Keeps Crews Busy Delaware City assisted Christiana on a residential fire with multiple injuries in the development of Buckley. Squad 15 made the response and assisted with fire suppression efforts. Fourteen minutes later, Station 15 was dispatched for an MVC with subject trapped with multiple patients. Unit 296 was en route to Station 6 (Christian)a for a cover up assignment and was advised to make the response on the crash. Deputy 15 (MacKenzie) advised of no entrapment but requested another BLS. Rescue Engine 15 and C 15 responded to the MVC. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Wilmington House Fire At 0103 on February 17, 2020, Wilmington firefighters on the D Platoon were alerted for a residential structure fire on East 10th Street. Units arrived to find fire showing from the second-floor rear of a two-story, middle-of-the-row dwelling. Crews from Engine 2 and Squrt 3 made an aggressive interior attack, finding fire conditions on the second floor in a rear bedroom with extension into the attic. Battalion Chief Michael Harris arrived and requested a fourth engine for the RIT and an additional ladder company to assist with roof ventilation. The fire extended to the attic area of the adjacent dwelling. One firefighter was injured while combating the fire, and was transported to Wilmington Hospital by EMS. The scene was placed under control at 0140. The dwelling — unoccupied at the time — sustained significant fire and smoke damage. The adjacent dwelling suffered fire damage to the attic area. The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating and Wilmington Licenses and Inspections responded and determined the dwellings to be uninhabitable. - Submitted by John Looney
Christiana Handles Residential Fire
On March 9, 2020, Christiana Fire, along with automatic aid companies, were dispatched to a residential structure fire in the Sherwood Forest Community. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from a split-level single-family dwelling. Crews stretched and operated three handlines to extinguish the fire, which extended from the entrance of the split level, to the first floor and attic. Three dogs were rescued by firefighters and treated at the scene, then taken to a nearby animal hospital. All survived. One firefighter was treated for minor injuries. Companies operated for approximately two hours. Chief Cowperthwait was in command of the units responding, which were: Christiana, Cranston Heights, Aetna Hose, Mill Creek, Wilmington Manor, Goodwill, Minquas and NCCEM. - Submitted by Dennis Godek
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Jumper Injured at Wilmington Blaze Recently, Wilmington firefighters responded to a structure fire on West 35th Street. The fire forced one civilian to jump from the second floor. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Felton Trailer Fire On February 13, 2020, at approximately 0029, the Felton Fire Company, along with a tanker company from Harrington, were alerted for a trailer fire in the unit block of Lake Forest Circle. Units arrived to find fire showing from the single-wide mobile home. Crews quickly knocked down the bulk of the fire and searched the residence with negative results. Units responding were Engine 48-4, Tanker 48-5, Rescue 48-1, Ambulance 48. Engine 50-1, Engine/Tanker 50-2, Ambulance A-50, and SFMO. - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
Page 14, Fire News, April 2020
Harrington Car Fire On March 9, 2020, at 0354, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched for a vehicle fire at the intersection of Dorman and Grant Streets. Firefighters arrived to an SUV fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters placed a line in service and quickly brought the fire under control. Units on scene were 50 Command, Engine 50-1, Engine 50-5, Ambulance B-50, Fire Police and Harrington Police. The OIC Deputy Chief Kenny Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Delaware City Residential Fire
The Delaware City Fire Company Station 15 and neighboring companies were dispatched for a residential structure fire at 0745 on February 3, 2020. Christiana Fire Company Engine 6 arrived on scene to smoke showing from the basement windows. Deputy 6 assumed Delaware City Command. Squad 15 arrived and supplied Engine 6 from a hydrant at Daisey Bell Lane and McCoy Road. Crews contained the fire to the basement area with smoke damage throughout the residence. - Submitted by Delaware City FC; photo courtesy of Christiana Fire
Claymont Garage Fire
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Felton Debris Fire
On March 2, 2020, at approximately 1933, the Felton Fire Company was alerted for a large debris pile on fire in the unit block of Indian Runner Road. Units arrived and extinguished the fire. - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
Ladder 17 Assists Elsmere
On January 9, 2020, just after 1230, Ladder 17 was alerted to assist Station 16 (Elsmere) on a commercial structure fire located on North Park Drive in Elsmere. Multiple units arrived to find a 1-1/2 story residential over a commercial garage with fire showing from the roof. Command (168) declared this a defensive operation and multiple handlines were deployed as well as the aerial master stream from Ladder 17. Just after arrival of the first units, the Fire Board advised command there could possibly be someone trapped on the second floor. Crews were able to access areas of the second floor via an attached deck. Crews were able to determine there was no one in the building. During the height of the fire, crews also had to deal with the electrical meter on the side of the building burning and shorting out until DelMarva Power was able to turn the power off. The State Fire Marshall was investigating the cause. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Ladder 17 Assists Mill Creek at House Fire
Recently, a box was struck for the Paladin Club Apartments for a multi-residential structure fire. Claymont Fire Company Rescue and Engine 13 responded simultaneously staffed with 11. Deputy B. Harris reported a car on fire in a three-car detached garage. Engine 13 stretched a handline and assisted with suppression. Rescue 13 arrived as first-due special, gaining access to the garages and venting the roof. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
On February 25, 2020, Ladder 17 assisted Mill Creek Fire Company on a residential structure fire on South Jane Way in the Windermere development. Ladder 17 arrived at the front of the house, the crew split, one half throwing ground ladders and the other half overhauling. Multiple other companies assisted. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
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Brandywine Handles Mulch Fire Recently, firefighters from the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company battled an early morning mulch fire. No injuries were reported. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Busy Day for Squad 17 Around 1115 on January 29, 2020, Squad 17 was alerted as the replacement engine for a multi-residential structure fire at the Towers of Valley Run in Claymont. Squad 17 arrived and staged. While returning around 1140, Squad 17 was assigned to another multi-residential fire off Limestone Road in Mill Creek’s district. Units arrived on scene there to fire showing and transmitted a second alarm. Squad 17 was assigned to the Bravo exposure to pull ceilings and look for extension. While returning from this call about 1350, Squad 17 was again alerted as part of the New Castle County Decon Team to respond to people exposed to toxic vapors in the Cannery Shopping Center. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Page 16, Fire News, April 2020
Rosedale Lane Garage Fire
On January 4, 2020, Cheswold, Dover, and Hartly fire companies were dispatched to a house fire on Rosedale Lane. Command 43 arrived to find a single-story home with smoke showing. Engine 433 located a fire in the garage. Crews from all three companies extinguished the fire and completed all searches. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
2 Car Fires in Felton
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Felton Car Fire Extends
On March 3, 2020, at approximately 0402, the Felton Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle on fire with an exposure to a shed in unit block of Firetower Road. Units arrived to find fire showing from the vehicle with extension to the shed. Units responding were Rescue 48-1, Engine 48-4 and Ambulance 48. - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
Millsboro Smoker
On February 29, 2020, the Felton Fire Company was alerted for two vehicles on fire in the Shore Bank parking lot. Units arrived to find fire showing from both vehicles. The fire was quickly knocked down by first arriving crews, and no injuries were reported. - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
The Millsboro Volunteer Fire Company was called to an early morning alarm at the Millsboro Village apartments. Crews discovered unattended cooking, with no extension. Ventilation was implemented to remove smoke condition. - Submitted by Larry Gum
Busy Day for Claymont Rescue 13
Tower 11 Assists Station 13
Recently, the Claymont Fire Company Station 13 was alerted to a rollover MVC on I-495 with a vehicle on fire. En route, Rescue and Engine 13 were advised that Fireboard could see the vehicle on the traffic camera fully involved. The rescue and engine arrived at the same time, with the engine working on fire suppression and the rescue stabilization and hazard mitigation. Two patients were transported to the hospital. Rescue 13 was then dispatched to two first-due box alarms within 10 minutes of each other. Each of the box alarms were quickly put under control. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Recently Tower 11 assisted Station 13 on a working fire at the Towers of Valley Run Condominiums. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Page 18, Fire News, April 2020
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MVC with Overturn
On March 14, 2020, at 2048, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to an MVC with overturn on Costal Highway in the vicinity of the old Coast Guard Station. Upon arrival of the Rehoboth Beach Command two vehicles were involved on the southbound lanes. One vehicle was on its side in the marsh with the occupant trapped. Rehoboth firefighters extricated the victim who was transported to Beebe Medical Center by Rehoboth Beach Ambulance. Other units on scene were Sussex EMS, Delaware State Police and Rehoboth Beach Fire Police. - Submitted by Warren Jones
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Not Sure They Had That in Mind for a Drive-Thru On March 11, 2020, the Elsmere Fire Company was dispatched to the Wendy’s on Kirkwood Highway for an MVC with rollover. Rescue/Engine-16 Captain Rosa found one vehicle on its roof in the drive-through of Wendy’s. One patient was transported to a nearby hospital. Crews remained on scene for approximately 45 minutes. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Bad Day on Vernon Road On March 4, 2020, at 1938, the Harrington Fire Company along with Kent County EMS (KM-5 and KM-8) and Delaware State Police Aviation were dispatched to an MVC in the 5400 block of Vernon Road. Ambulance B-50 reported a two-vehicle head on collision with one deceased subject ejected from a vehicle and two subjects entrapped in a second vehicle. Farmington was dispatched for the rescue assist. After an extended extrication one pediatric patient was removed and flown by DSP Trooper 2 to AI DuPont Hospital. The adult driver was also removed from the vehicle and transported by DSP Trooper 4 to Christiana Hospital with serious injuries. The person ejected was pronounced at the scene. While operating on this accident units were dispatched to a second accident in the 1800 block of Vernon Road, west of the original accident. Engine 47-4 and Brush 50 cleared the first accident and responded to the second. There was one subject transported from the second accident with minor injuries. Units on scene were Fire Chief 50-15, A-50, B-
50, Rescue 50, Engine 50-1, Brush 50, Rescue 47, Engine 47-4, KM-8, DSP Trooper 2, DSP Trooper 4, Harrington PD, Delaware State Police, Fire Police and Del-Dot. OIC (first accident): Fire Chief Robbie Brode. Second accident: Captain Mark Scribner, Jr. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Multiple Injuries at Delaware City MVC On February 23, 2020, Stations 15 and 29 were dispatched for an MVC with multiple patients. Chief Poppe arrived with 296 and A15 in the 1699 block of South DuPont Highway at one of the vehicles; the other vehicle was in the area of Mid County Lanes. Command had C15 and Rescue Engine 15 stop at Mid County Lanes to assess the second vehicle. A-15 transported two to CER and C-15 obtained an RMA. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Page 22, Fire News, April 2020
MVC Response
Recently, Rehoboth Beach fire crews responded to an MVC. - Submitted by Warren Jones
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MVC on Lancaster Pike
On March 10, 2020, Fire and Rescue crews were alerted for an MVC with entrapment on the 4200 block of Lancaster Pike. Upon arrival, crews found a two-vehicle crash and confirmed entrapment of one person. Crews from Rescue/Engine 16 along with Rescue 14 worked together to remove the trapped patient from the vehicle. Two patients were transported to the trauma center. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Marsh Road MVC Recently, the Clayton Fire Company was dispatched to Marsh Road for an MVC with entrapment. Units arrived, cut one patient out and DSP Trooper 4 flew one patient to Christiana ER. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Overturn with Extrication Station 16 and Station 14 were dispatched for a vehicle on its roof, with one person pinned. Deputy Schweiger, A-16, A-14, Rescue/Engine 16, Rescue 14, and Unit 14-8 responded. Rescue 14 arrived and began stabilization and Rescue/Engine 16 deployed a handline, assisted with patient care and stabilization. One male was transported to the local trauma center with minor injuries. Delaware State Police were investigating. - Submitted by Frank Maule; story by Justin Schweiger
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Harrington Helps Houston at MVC On March 11, 2020, at 0800, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched for a rescue assist with the Houston Fire Company for an MVC with reported entrapment on Carpenter Bridge Road. A patient was removed and airlifted from the scene by DSP Trooper 2. Ambulance B-50, Rescue 50 and Engine 50-5 also responded on the call. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Car into Brandywine River Claymont Fire Company units were alerted to a unknown vehicle in the Brandywine River. Crews from Squad 4 and Ladder 1 entered to the water and confirmed the vehicle was not occupied. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Page 28, Fire News, April 2020
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Wilmington Adopts Gross Decon Policy Wilmington Fire Department has adopted a new policy of gross decon after working fires to help reduce the firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Hay Road High-Angle Rescue Squad 4 assisted New Castle County on a high-angle rescue on Hay Road. Crews removed an injured worker from inside a cooling tower. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
A Very Busy Day for Harrington On February 7, 2020, the Harrington Fire Company was busy responding to several alarms throughout their district as a severe storm with heavy rain and heavy winds came through the area. Beginning at 0847, Harrington and Houston were dispatched to a structure fire at the Food Lion in the Midway Shopping Center. Firefighters arrived to find a fire in a rotisserie cooker that was extinguished by employees. As the storm moved through the area Harrington responded to an electrical hazards call on Jackson Ditch Road, Milford-Harrington Highway, Doctor Smith Road and
Walk Messick Road. Units also responded to trees into residences on Clark Sreet and Raughley Hill Road. Other alarms included assisting Felton with a building fire at Lake Forest High School and a structure collapse on Hills Market Road. No injuries were reported during any of the incidents. During the course of the storm Harrington staffed two ambulances and two pieces of apparatus. A special thanks to the City of Harrington Public Works for assisting with trees down throughout the storm. - Submitted by Earl Brode
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 29
TRAINING
Officer Development Training
Wilmington firefighters continue to participate in the Officer Development Program with ICS 300. Firefighters are obtaining
professional certifications in Fire Officer 1 and 2, Instructor, ICS 300 and Fire Officer 3. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Firefighter Jenga Training
Recently, firefighters from the Felton Fire Company trained with way for members to gain experience with the tools. some hydraulic rescue tools by playing “firefighter Jenga,� a fun - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
Page 30, Fire News, April 2020
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TRAINING
Rehoboth Beach Water Rescue Training Recently, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company trained on water rescue operations. - Submitted by Warren Jones
DSFS Mayday Drill DSFS conducted a Mayday Drill at Millsboro Station 83. Reduced SCBA air capacity, vision obscured, walls to breach, hose to follow, radio to operate with low flow alarm, and obstacles to overcome were some of the scenarios practiced. - Submitted by Larry Gum
Clayton Trains “Training is the backbone of any good fire department,” said past-Chief Jeff Hurlock, Training Advisor of the Clayton Fire Company. Clayton trains on alternating Monday nights as well as other times during the year, and on February 3, 2020, the company split their training class into two groups. One group donned full bunker gear and SCBA, and walked a prescribed course in the station, the first part carrying a hose load on their shoulder the second part was to walk up stairs then pull, by rope, a 50-foot section of 1-½ inch line while on air, a drill designed to give members some idea of how to manage breathing while in an actual fire. The second group worked on three-man engine crews using an officer, firefighter and a driver to deploy a 300-foot line. Once the groups completed the task, they switched, allowing every member to perform both functions. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
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SCEMS
Sussex County EMS Scores Bronze in the 2020 JEMS Games
On March 5, 2020, a team of four Sussex County paramedics walked into a conference hall in Tampa, Florida, and found themselves once again competing for the gold spot in the annual JEMS Games international competition. The darkened hall quickly filled with smoke as sparks flew from firefighters breaching a metal door. As the team from Sussex County approached the stage, they were faced initially with setting up firefighter rehab and caring for a single patient with inhalation injuries. As the scenario progressed, firefighters pulled one patient after another out of the burning residence. The team was challenged with a three adult patients and three pediatric patients pulled from the fire. All of the pediatric patients required an in-depth resuscitation. Then, just as the Sussex County team thought help had arrived, one of the arriving ambulance crew members began to suffer a medical emergency and collapsed. Competing paramedics Bonnie Allard, Chaz Tannermann, Matt Troutman, and alternate Jason Hansen, quickly triaged the patients.
Calling for additional resources and setting up an MCI branch, while simultaneously treating the multiple critical patients, showed everyone in the audience just how well trained and professional this team was. The Sussex County EMS team was awarded bronze for their exceptional performance. This award adds to the many awards that the Sussex County EMS competition team has achieved in its over-10-year history of competitions. The Sussex County EMS Competition Team continues to publicly show the pride in training, care, and the driving force to always better themselves, which runs through the veins of each and every Sussex County paramedic. On behalf of all of Sussex County EMS, we congratulate Bonnie, Chaz, Matt, Jason and a special mention to Austin Kauffman, for carrying on the excellent tradition of the SCEMS Competition Team. - Submitted by Andrew Vickers
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 33
Up Close & Personal On March 2, 2020, the Felton Fire Company was alerted for a large debris pile on fire in the unit block of Indian Runner Road. Units arrived and extinguished the fire. - Submitted by Kevin Sipple
On February 16, 2020, Cheswold, Dover and Hartly fire companies were dispatched to a house fire on Omni Drive. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
An MCFC firefighter on scene at the Coleman Memorial United Methodist Church fire in Dunleith on February 9, 2020. - Submitted by Ken LaBelle
Recently, the Millsboro Fire and Indian River Fire companies responded to a house fire in the Mount Joy area. - Submitted by Larry Gum
Members of Minquas Station 23. - Submitted by Dominick Mills DSFS conducted a Mayday drill at Millsboro Station 83. Reduced SCBA air capacity, vision obscured, walls to breach, hose to follow, radio to operate with low flow alarm, and obstacles to overcome were some of the scenarios practiced. - Submitted by Larry Gum
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DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS Incident Command Structure Training On February 16 and 17, 2020, the Delaware State Fire School held NIMS ICS-400 training. Students learned about the Incident Command Structure, especially as it applies to larger, expanding incidents. Students worked in groups to help solve problems, worked at delegating work, along with the importance in the use of ICS-forms for documentation. - Submitted by Michael Lowe; story and photo from DSFS
Honoring a Young Hero: Ka’Myre Snead On February 26, 2020, members of the Laurel Fire Department along with EMS career staff went to the Laurel Middle School to recognize a student who they were hailing as a hero. Ka’Myre Snead is a sixth grader at LMS. This young man performed a lifesaving procedure on his cousin after she began choking in the lunchroom. After having lunch, representatives of Laurel Fire Department presented Ka’Myre with a plaque recognizing his efforts. His only training had been from watching rescue shows on TV. LFD also provided a tour of apparatus and answered numerous questions about how the department operates. Congratulations Ka’Myre. We are all so proud of you! - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Fire School Director Newman Honors Instructors with Lifetime Status At this year’s Instructors Seminar, held at the Delaware State Fire School on January 26, 2020, Director Robert Newnam announced that individuals would be receiving the status of “Lifetime Instructor.” The entire staff of the Fire School wishes to thank the following for their dedication and contributions made to the education and development of students throughout the state and beyond: Denise Dill, Cliff Neidig, Dave Mast, Russ Amidon, David Anderson, Herb Netsch, Diane Silverman, Alan Silverman and John Clawson. - Submitted by Michael Lowe; story and photo from DSFS
NCC Recruits Air Management Training On February 25, 2020, the 6th New Castle County Fire Academy class became the first class to start using Air Management training. The recruits all donned their 45 minute SCBA units and went on air during the classroom instruction on ropes and knots. The majority of the recruits lasted well beyond the 45 minutes of air the bottle is supposed to supply, and the instructors had to have the last six recruits come off air after wearing their SCBA for three hours without their low air alarms going off. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Fire Officer 2 Ends On February 15 and 16, 2020, DSFS held its last weekend of the Fire Officer 2 blended course. Students did some work online, and then four days in the classroom. Beyond the academic portion of the course, we added simulated incidents to help students with the concept of incident command and practical applications of duties as a Fire Officer 2. Students participated in simulations using our virtual Chestnut Grove to respond and mitigate varying levels of incidents. Students received incidents from a ‘dispatch center’ and utilized several rooms to help simulate the distances between incident commanders and their staff on a fire ground. - Submitted by Michael Lowe; story and photo from DSFS
DSFS Hosts Third Annual Empowerment Day: Women’s Leadership Seminar Empowerment Day: Leadership Seminar 2020 was a fantastic day! We had a great time hosting 60 guests at the Delaware State Fire School during our half-day event. The morning began listening to Keynote Speaker Michaela Hruskova. She discussed her dedication and involvement as a K9 Search and Rescuer Technician with Northeast Search and Rescue in the Pennsylvania and Tri-State area. Michaela also brought her colleagues Nina (with her Dutch Shepherd, Kevlar), Heather (with her German Shepherd, Azyln) and Ken (with his German Shepherd, Tia). Each guest was able to elaborate on their type of rescue and/or recovery K9. The second part of the day was hands-on, mini breakout sessions. Guests (including campers, families and community members) were able to don and doff SCBA in the hazmat room with help and guidance from CFD staff. For the second break-out session, two University of Delaware Officers — Officers Lane and Battles — taught basic principals from the Rape Aggression Defense System program, which teaches realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women. Empowerment Day and Camp Fury Delaware are dedicated to making Delaware a more inclusive, diverse state. We strive to show our many communities how dynamic opportunities are in the responder field. The success of this event is a true reflection of volunteer’s dedication of service to others. Many thanks to Michaela Hruskova and her colleagues, University of Delaware Police Department, the Delaware State Fire School, the amazing staff from CFD and the participants for another wonderful Empowerment Day. For more information about Camp Fury Delaware or Empowerment Day, please follow our social media pages or contact Sarah Highberger (Facebook: Camp Fury Delaware; Instagram: @campfurydelaware; Twitter: @campfuryde). Camp Fury Delaware applications will be released in April 2020. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
DSFS Tests New Training Foam With recent developments and research regarding the reduction of cancer levels in firefighters, the Delaware State Fire School took a proactive approach and performed tests on new training foam to reduce the possibility of exposure to harmful contaminants. Senior staff as well as instructors from the Hazardous Materials program participated in the research and testing. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 37
Cover Story
Major Damage at Church Fire in Dunleith
Fire damaged the kitchen area of the Coleman Memorial United Methodist Church on Anderson Drive in Dunleith on February 9, 2020. The building sustained heavy fire damage to the rear of the church with extensive water and smoke damage throughout the building. - Submitted by Ken LaBelle
Page 38, Fire News, April 2020
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Brooks Banta Honored by Kent County FFA
During the annual Kent County Firefighter’s Association dinner, Brooks Banta, a long-time Levy Court Commissioner and serving as the Levy Court President and an honorary member of the Clayton Fire Company was honored as a past-President Emeritus of the county association. Brooks has worked hard for all of the emergency services in Kent County and has fought to raise funding to the fire companies. The members
of Clayton want to thank Brooks for his years of service. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson, PIO Clayton;
- photos by James Woznicki Kent County Director
Clayton Honors Masten with President’s Award Jim Masten, Associate Member of the Year for the Clayton Fire Company, was presented the President’s Award at the annual appreciation dinner held December 21, 2019, by Kevin L. Wilson, President of the Clayton Fire Company. The President’s Award was started in 2018 to honor one of Clayton’s associate members who, during the year, went above and beyond. “Jim is a two-year member of Clayton and has become one of our most active associate members,” said Wilson. Jim is a Fire Police Officer for Citizen’s Hose of Smyrna. (Left to right): President Kevin L. Wilson and Jim Masten. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
Minquas Gets New Engine Minquas Fire Company has taken delivery of Engine 23, a 2020 Pierce Enforcer. This unit was purchased from and fully equipped by Atlantic Emergency Solutions. Engine 23 has 750gallon water tank, low bed and ladders, and short city-service wheelbase. - Submitted by Don Moorhead
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 39
Delaware City’s Herb Netsch Honored On January 26, 2020, during the Annual Delaware State Fire School Instructor Seminar, Delaware City Fire Company Chief Emeritus Herb Netsch was recognized by the senior staff of the Fire School with the Lifetime Instructor Achievement Award. Chief Emeritus Netsch was an Instructor from September 1996 until February 2017, teaching Hazardous Materials, Fire Brigade Training and NFPA 1081 for 21 years. His teaching however has not stopped at Delaware City as he continues to not only assist with teaching and training classes at the station but can always be seen at the weekly training classes, proving you’re never too old to keep learning! After he received his recognition, he was at the station to do his part
in training members on the new Quint which had 14 members in attendance. One of the most respected role models at Delaware City, the company offers its congratulations to Chief Emeritus Herb Netsch on receiving this prestigious recognition from the Delaware State Fire School. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Farmington’s Richie Smith Gets Fireman of the Year Award Farmington Fire Company President Joe Zeroles presented the 2019 Ronald C. Vincent Fireman of the Year award to Richie Smith. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Page 40, Fire News, April 2020
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New Apparatus for Wilmington The Wilmington Fire Department recently took delivery of three new apparatus. Ladder 1, Engine 1, and Engine 2. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Claymont Awards Plaques to Supporters
Recently, Claymont Fire Company members awarded appreciation Lion in Claymont thanking them for their continuing support over plaques to businesses in their community that continue to provide the last 10 years, supporting the monthly food drive in the commusupport. Plaques were presented to the store managers of ACME in nity. Branmar Plaza, ACME in the F&N Shopping Center and the Food - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Millsboro Hosts Mutual Aid Cos.
Recently, the Millsboro Volunteer Fire Company hosted neighboring mutual aid companies for a night of food, fellowship, games and
drinks. It was another successful hospitality night! - Submitted by Larry Gum
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 41
Wilmington Promotional Ceremony
Petusky Gets Firefighter of the Year Chief Tom Williams presents the 2019 Firefighter of the Year award to Michael Petusky. - Submitted by Tom Williams
On October 10, 2019, at a ceremony at the Louis L. Redding City/County Building, friends and family joined dignitaries to applaud the accomplishments of the following members of the department who were promoted. Promoted to Deputy Chief was Gabriel Pabon, Jr. Promoted to Captain was Thomas Sowinski. Promoted to Lieutenants were Andrew Bowerson, Kevin Weems and Daniel Kincade. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Elsmere’s Brock Becomes Senior Member
Wilmington Halloween Wilmington Engine 5 D set up a table for Halloween 2019 and had a special visitor stop by for some candy. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Fire Prevention
At the February 2020 meeting of the Elsmere Fire Company, Tyler Brock was voted in as senior member. At the March meeting he was assigned his Black Shield from Chief Mark Facciolo. Tyler is a fourth-generation firefighter. Congratulations, Tyler. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Crews from Engine 6, FMO, and Administration visited St Peter’s School during Catholic Schools Week to discuss fire safety. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Brandywine Hundred 2020 Officers Brandywine Hundred Fire Company 1 held their annual election meeting on December 4, 2019 and the following members were elected to proudly serve in 2020. We congratulate the newly elected officers and wish them a successful year. Fireline Officers: Thomas R. Finocchiaro, Fire Chief; Gordy W. Day, Deputy Chief; Alan L. Brown, 1st Assistant Chief; Gordon H. Edwards III, 2nd Assistant Chief. Administrative Officers: Richard T. Perillo, President; Debra L. Finocchiaro, Vice-President; Steven J. Hammerer, Secretary; Scottie T. Schmidt, Treasurer. Board of Directors: Christopher Bonsall; Gordon Edwards, Jr.; Joseph Krieger; William McCracken; Bernard Robinson III; and C. Frank Willette. Appointed Positions for 2020: C. Frank Willette, Chief Engineer; James Salvatore, Assistant Engineer; John Verbanc, Assistant Engineer; Vincent Liberatore, Assistant Engineer; and Michael Cahill, Fire Recorder. Fire Police: Jack Clendaniel, Ron Schmidt, Randy Quinn, Scottie Schmidt and John Woloszyn. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Page 42, Fire News, April 2020
Delaware City Gets New Rig The Delaware City Fire Company placed their new Quint in service on February 23, 2020. The rig is a 2019 Pierce Ascendant 107-foot ladder. Quint 15 has a 450-hp Cummins L9 engine, Allison fifth gen 3000 EVS transmission, 480-gallon water tank, 20gallon foam tank, 2000-gpm Waterous Pump, 800 feet of four-inch hose, 300 feet of three-inch hose, 650 feet of 1-3/4 inch hose and 200 feet of two-inch hose, all required ground ladders and pike poles. Quint 15 carries eDraulic Hurst Tool and Cutter, Bullard Fan, two High Density Streamlight Lights, two Honda gaspowered generators, 3 Stihl saws, 2 TIC cameras, QRAE3 gas meter, six Scott SCBAs, and assorted other equipment. The unit was sold by Brian Bashista of Atlantic Emergency Solutions. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Perry Recognized for Choking Save
Senior Firefighter Marc Perry was recognized for his efforts in saving a young child who was not breathing due to a piece of candy stuck in his throat. Due to Firefighter Perry’s quick actions the candy was removed and the child starting breathing again. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Busy — and Complicated — Fire Day On February 29, 2020, just before midnight, the Rescue Engine was alerted to cover Station 28 (Wilmington Manor) as part of the county regional cover policy as Christiana Fire Company and surrounding mutual aid units operated at a house fire in the Buckley neighborhood. At about 0100, the Rescue Engine was alerted and responded from Station 28 to assist Claymont on a multi-residential structure fire at Towers of Valley Run. Deputy 13 arrived and reported a seven-story highrise with fire showing from the third floor. Rescue Engine 16 arrived and performed searches on the fifth, sixth and seventh floors. All were negative. While both of these fires were active, and several units from the area committed to both scenes, Chief Facciolo and Assistant Chief Edwards took Engine 16 to Station 23 (Minquas 1) and teamed up with Minquas Chief Joe Dierolf and Assistant Chief Brandon Hamm to staff an engine company to provide coverage for the area until other units became available. Another great display of teamwork to provide a service. Great job to all units involved at both fires. - Submitted by Frank Maule; story by Vince Gaines
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Yummmm! Girl Scout Cookies
On March 12, 2020. the Girl Scouts of America Service Unit 11 dropped over the Girl Scout cookies order for the Harrington Fire Company. We thank you for your donation and look forward to enjoying the cookies! - Submitted by Earl Brode
Elsmere Does Some TLC
On March 9, 2020, members and personnel of the Elsmere Fire Company took advantage of the nice weather and showed some much needed attention to the apparatus in between runs, getting them cleaned up and looking good. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Carrow, Yerkes Honored by KCFA Clayton, DE The Kent County Firefighter ’s Association each year awards an award to a member of the county fire service which is nominated by their home company. The award is named in honor of William R. “Ace” Carrow of Clayton and Morris King of Hartly the first two award winners. During the annual Kent County dinner held on February 29, 2020, William R. “Skip” Carrow the son of Ace was awarded the annual award and this year Robert Yerkes of Houston also won the award the first time since the inception of the award. Skip has served in every fire line position as well as most of the administrative positions in the fire company, he serves as a Clayton Town Councilperson, as well as on committees of the county association. Skip has dedicated his life as a public served having retired as a 911 operator supervisor from the Delaware State Police and he currently serves as a 911 operator for the Town of Smyrna. “The company is very proud of Skip’s accomplishments and his dedication to the fire company” stated president Kevin Wilson. Skip’s son Alex serves as the fire chief of Clayton. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 43
New Castle Police Honor Delaware City Fire Police
At the New Castle County Fire Police Installation Banquet on December 9, 2019, Dennis Layton, Sr., was honored as New Castle County Police Department’s Fire Policeman of the Year. The award was presented by Fire Police President Paige Seppanen and recently retired New Castle County Police Department Lieutenant Patrick Malone. Jasper Lakey was presented his Life Membership from the New Castle County Fire Police Association by President Paige Seppanen. Both are Delaware City Fire Company members. Congratulations to Dennis Layton on this prestigious recognition and to Jasper Lakey for his tenure as a Fire Policeman. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Dagsboro Quarter Auction
Dagsboro firefighters in Sussex County, Delaware held a quarter auction at their station on February 22, 2020. Firefighters also took
the time to show off their ‘new’ tanker. - Submitted by Dennis C. Sharpe
Kudos to Marlyn Barr of the Magnolia LA The officers and members of the Magnolia Ladies Auxiliary wish to put forward the name of Marlyn Barr for Kent County Member of the Year. Marlyn, a life member, has been a member of the Auxiliary since 1986. She has faithfully served as our Treasurer for more than 20 years. She has loyally provided council on our accounts by keeping strict records of what we spend and earn on every event. Whether it is serving lunches at the fire school, regular bingos, beef and chicken dumpling meals, quarter auctions, fall craft shows — you name it — she has kept track of every cent we spend and every cent we earn! She has also been the voice of reason when some of us want to go overboard with spending for events. Another task that Marlyn has overseen for many years is the purchasing for our events. Yes, she is the one that goes to the stores to ensure that we get the best price to make every meal. Marlyn is also very involved in her church community. She is also a vital part of her daughters’, sons-in-law’s and granddaughters’ lives as well. She and her late husband George made family a priority while still serving the Magnolia community. When we need extra support for an event her daughters and granddaughters are always there to assist her. I believe she doesn’t see being a member of the Ladies Auxiliary a job, rather she views it as extended family. Finally, we want to mention the praiseworthy cookies, coconut cakes and orange fluff she provides for members! She supports me as she has served many presidents in the past, with patience and encouragement; just as she serves all the members of the Magnolia Ladies Auxiliary. Marlyn Barr’s dedication, commitment and service to our Auxiliary are exemplary. - Submitted by Debra Lawhead, President Magnolia Ladies Auxiliary
Page 44, Fire News, April 2020
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Kent County FA Awards Fireman of the Year to Robert H. Yerkes, Jr.
The William R. ‘Ace’ Carrow and Morris W. King Fireman of the Year Memorial Award was presented to Houston Volunteer Fire Company's Rovert H. ‘Bob’ Yerkes, Jr. Robert joined his department in the mid 1960s and has over 35 years of active service. He is not afraid to step up and lead and has held the offices of President, Vice-President, Treasurer and Director within the Houston Volunteer Fire Company. Robert is a Life Member and was awarded the department’s Fireman of the Year award on two separate occasions. Robert has also served for over 30 years as a Fire Policeman doing a
very important job at emergency scenes, keeping first responders safe. Robert is a past-President of both the Kent County Volunteer Firefighters Association and the Kent County Fire Police Association. Robert is a strong supporter of the young members by serving on several committees and have helped develop scholarships for youth organizations. He has been heard many times saying, “If we don’t support today’s youth, tomorrow we will never have any leaders.” On behalf of the Carrow and the King families, Congratulations! - Submitted by Ralph Satterfield, Editor-in-Chief & Jim Woznicki
Memorial Gets Tower from Selbyville The Memorial Volunteer Fire Company of Slaughter Beach, now has a 1991 Sutphen Tower. The Selbyville Fire Company donated the tower after they received their new engine. Memorial firefighters have trained heavily since the first of the year and the unit is close to being put in service. It features a 1500-gpm pump with 1000 gallons of water with three, 1-3/4 inch cross lays, a 2-1/2 inch attack
line, and three- and five-inch supply lines. Special thanks to Selbyville Chief Bob Eckman, Chief Engineer Jamie Latham and past-Treasurer Ray ‘Biscuit’ Stevens for their assistance, and many thanks to all of the members of Selbyville. - Submitted by Terry Jester
Claymont’s Ed Hassel Honored by VFW Recently, Claymont Life Member Ed Hassel received the First Responder Award from the Delaware Veterans of Foreign Wars. Ed joined the company in June 1969 as a 16-year-old sophomore at Claymont High School from where he graduated in 1971. After a short stint at Motor Sports of Delaware, Ed was hired by Amtrak and retired from them with over 38 years of service. In June 2019, Ed attained 50 years of service to the company and community, an admirable achievement. Ed has been a fire line officer for close to 30 years. He’s also held every fire line position up to and including Chief of the company. Ed’s involvement doesn’t stop at his dedication on the fire and rescue end. Being extremely handy with tools and his knowledge of repair work, Ed spends many hours each week working on projects around the station, saving the company thousands of dollars in maintenance costs annually. From the officers, ladies auxiliary and members of CFC, “Thank you Ed for all you do. It’s well deserved!” - Submitted by Gary Plotts
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 45
Rehoboth Installation and Awards Banquet
2019 Top Responder (top, left to right): John Brasiel; Howard Blizzard; Donald Mitchell, Jr.; Warren Jones; Chuck Snyder; Mike Simpler; Chatham Marsch; Kent Swarts; Stephanie Karl; Ryan Peters; Ralph Karl; Joel Demott; Bryan Burton; Arnie Edelman; Jeremiah Burton; Ted Doyle; John Meng; Gordon Boslet, Jr.; Arnold Pitman; and Leonard Tylecki. New Members for 2019 (above left, left to right): Cody Meade, Cory Henry, Eric Korpon, Jason Powell, Zoe Peters, Ciera Barnett, Sarah Braisel, John Braisel, Sidney Marchetti, Keri Dinkle, Vaughn McCabe III, Carol Reynolds-Wiley, Scott Lawson, Karl Hornberger, and Nick Williams. Not present: Silas Chapman, Logan Cleversy, Greg Cole, Robert Cook, Petr Turin, and Jeff Walls. 2020 Fire Line Officers (above right, left to right): Chief Chuck
Snyder, 1st Assistant Chief Ralph Karl, 2nd Assistant Chief Ronny Blizzard, 3rd Assistant Chief Chatham Marsch, Deputy Chief Vaughn McCabe, Captains, Kent Swarts, Ryan Peters, Gordon Boslet, Jr., and Chief Engineer Donald Mitchell, Jr. 2020 Administrative Officers (below left, left to right): President Danny Mitchell, Treasurer Ted Doyle, Assistant Secretary Leonard Tylecki, Assistant Treasurer John Meng, Executive Committee Member Mike Simpler. 60 Year Active Member to Howard Blizzard: President Daniel Mitchell, Howard Blizzard, and Chief Engineer Donald Mitchell, Jr. (bottom, center). Life Member recipient Harry Mille r(bottom, right): President Daniel Mitchell and Harry Miller. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Page 46, Fire News, April 2020
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New Castle Firefighters Assoc. Awards and Installation
At the Annual Installation Banquet of the New Castle County Volunteer Firefighters Association held at the Delaware City Fire Company, Jim Watson was installed as President of the Association along with his wife Deb who was installed as Secretary, and Wally Poppe who was installed as Treasurer. During the awards portion of the banquet, Deb Watson was present-
Holloway Terrace Ladies Celebrate 98 Years
Over 30 members of the Holloway Terrace Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary celebrated the organization’s 98th anniversary with a delicious dinner at the Big Fish Grill on the Wilmington waterfront. - Submitted by Randy Roberts
ed with the Harold ‘Sonny’ Wilkins Longevity Award by Rich Rodriguez, grandson of Sonny Wilkins. Also, Wally Poppe was recognized by the Association with the Louis J. Amabili Memorial Firefighter of the Year Award. Congratulations to all the newly installed officers and our members for their award recognition’s. - Submitted by Delaware City FC
Obituary
Holloway Terrace’s Dorothy Romano
The Holloway Terrace Fire Co. mourned the passing of Ladies Auxiliary life member Dorothy “Dottie” Romano. She was 73. Dottie was a talented homemaker and friend to the community, but above all else was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Dottie is survived by her husband of 54 years, Wayne ‘Chip’ Romano, Sr., sons Wayne Jr, Michael and Joe; daughter Stephanie Bowers; brothers John and Bruce Hunter, sister Jeanette Sowers; nine grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. - Submitted by Randy Roberts
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Obituaries
Fire News, April 2020, Page 47
Harrington’s Melvin Wyatt
The Officers and members of the Harrington Fire Company, Inc. regret to announce the passing of past-President, past-EMS Captain and Fire Chief Emeritus Melvin Wyatt. Chief Wyatt answered is last alarm on February 11, 2020, and was the oldest living member of the Harrington Fire Company. Chief Wyatt joined the fire company in 1947 and was a 73-year member. He held many offices and served on many committees and Board of Directors. He was President in 1962 and EMS Captain in 1963-1964. He was also a Fire Line Officer for many years and in 2005 the Fire Company made Chief Wyatt a Fire Chief Emeritus. Wyatt was also a past-President of the Kent County Firefighters Association. We will continue to keep the Wyatt family in our thoughts and prayers. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Carlisle’s Chuck Coverdale Chuck Coverdale, 62, of Milford, passed away suddenly on March 3, 2020, at home. Chuck was born in Milford, the son of Charles R. Coverdale and the late Rosemary (Haight) Coverdale. Chuck was a graduate of Milford High School class of 1976. He owned and operated Chuck’s Heating and Air Conditioning in Milford. Chuck was a Life Member of the Carlisle Fire Company, joining in September 1975. As well as serving on numerous committees, he held the positions of President, Secretary, Director 1, Building Superintendent, Fire Police, and was currently serving as Vice-President. During his 44 years of service, Chuck was twice the recipient of the Presidential Award for his dedicated service to the department and community. He also was very active with the Kent and Sussex Volunteer Firefighters Association. Chuck was an Honorary Member of the Ellendale Fire Company and enjoyed cooking and helping the Harrington Fire Company with many of their crab fests and fundraisers. Chuck loved being out on the water. He was an avid and diehard ocean and bay fisherman. He earned his captain’s license and was known to all his fishing buddies as Captain Chuck. In addition to his fishing, he enjoyed scuba diving, hunting and decoy carving. He was also known for his cooking abilities. Chuck was preceded in death by his mother Rosemary T. Coverdale in 2018. He is survived by his patient, caring and loving wife of 37 years Marcia; his son Allen C. Coverdale and his wife Emily; his father Charles R. Coverdale; six brothers and sisters Kathy Jester and husband Ron, Tim Coverdale and wife Debbie, Paul Coverdale and wife Michele, Tommy Coverdale and wife Toni, Jane Pisapia and husband Lou, and Carrie Coverdale-Gynac and her companion Rick Donovan; and three precious grandchildren Alleigh, Ashton and Ayden. A visitation was held 15, 2020 in Grier Hall of the Carlisle Fire Company. Burial was private. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions in Chuck’s memory be sent to Carlisle Fire Company, P.O. Box 292, Milford, DE 19963.
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Obituaries
Millsboro’s Norman Batchelor
In December 2019, the Millsboro Fire Company lost 65-year member Norman Batchelor, who was given a Fireman’s funeral by his fellow members. The last bell was given by past-President and Chief Mike Mitchell. Norman was a member since 1954, and held the office of Fire Chief for 16 years. He was one of the original Fire School Instructors in 1964 and was also past-President of SCVFA and State Chiefs. He also held the position of State Parliamentarian from 1975 to 2015. - Submitted by Larry Gum
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 49
Implementations for ISOs and HSOs During COVID-19 • If personnel are off duty they should not be in the station/admin The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) recommends implementing the following actions during the COVID-19 pan- facilities. demic, if your department has not already: • Eliminate in-person, non-essential meetings. Use teleconferencing • Screen personnel when they are coming on duty and then 12 hours if possible. Promote telecommuting for non-essential personnel. later (24-hour shifts). If they have 100.4°F temperature or signs/symp• Utilize social distancing while on duty. toms of illness, send them home. Ensure your Infection Control Officer • Eliminate social functions (bingo, pancake breakfast, company is notified, if any personnel are identified. meetings, allowing the public into the station for station tours). Some agencies are just using fever/chills and signs/symptoms of a • If there isn’t a plan for reductions in workforce, then work to crerespiratory illness (dyspnea, cough), another agency is saying if they have two or more of the following: muscle aches and pain; nonproduc- ate one — this should be part of your COOP. tive cough; sore throat; runny nose; nausea; send them home. • Have a plan to quarantine personnel if directed (where will they go, what leave status will they be placed on, food, etc.). ** Check with your medical directors/hospital systems, etc. for local recommendations. ** • For volunteer companies with live-ins, have a plan to relocate them if they become ill. • Develop a maximum and minimum staffing level plan per type of apparatus • Continue to promote hygiene pracfor volunteer companies. tices and cleaning of works spaces. • Limit the number of members • Increase the frequency of wiping having patient contact to essendown door handles and all surfaces tial personnel only. at the station and in the apparatus. The virus can live on a surface for • Ensure personnel know up to three days. Make sure your when and how to don the EVT mechanics are aware of the appropriate PPE. Ensure supneed to clean all apparatus. plies of PPE are available and create a reuse protocol for N95 • Ensure that there is a plan if masks based on CDC recompersonnel test positive for mendations to manage limited COVID-19, i.e., a plan for comsupplies. munication and potential coverage during the quarantine period. • Have your communications center implement a flu/COVID-19 • Cease the use of humidifiers in screening process on calls. This stations/bunk rooms. information can be sent to responders • With all the disaster declarations, work while en route to the call so they can don with budget/procurement personnel to track all their PPE prior to making patient contact. purchases such as PPE for possible reimbursement. • When personnel respond to emergencies, have • Work to have “one voice” sending information to the them slow down and assess the scene before entering. Sometimes the department. All formal messages/direction on COVID-19 should come unknowns can be patients with flu-like symptoms. This will allow from one person. This way it avoids duplication and possibly contradicthem to stop and don PPE prior to entering the building. tive information. Reference of information should be from a reputable • A mask should be placed on patients you are concerned about and consistent source, i.e., CDC. potentially having the illness. • If your organization hasn’t set up an IMT for this situation, recom• Limit personnel entering the hospital at time of transfer of care mend one be established. If one is set up, make sure you have an and other needs to visit the hospital. HSO/ISO representative on it. • Allow units to temporarily go out of service to clean their unit, uniform and shower if they run a patient with flu/COVID-19 signs and symptoms. Ensure an exposure form has been completed for tracking purposes.
Page 50, Fire News, April 2020
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Fire Marshal’s Report Family of Five Displaced by Fire in Lewes
John M. Galaska Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a March 18, 2020 structure fire that damaged an occupied mobile home in Lewes, Delaware and displaced a Family of five. The fire, reported shortly after 0500, occurred in the 17000 block of Evette Lane. The Lewes 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 result of this investigation concluded that the fire was accidental in nature, caused by an electrical malfunction on the interior of the structure. Fire damage is estimated at $15,000. There were no reported injuries. Smoke alarms were present and alerted the occupants who escaped the fire. There were no reported injuries. The Red Cross responded to the scene to assist the Victims.
Faulty Cell Phone Charger Starts Fire in Smyrna
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that a fire inside a Smyrna, Delaware home on March 13, 2020 was accidental. The Citizens Hose Company responded to the 300 block of Lake Drive shortly before 0800 for a 911 call reporting a house on fire. Firefighters arrived on the scene and observed smoke pouring from the home. State fire investigators were called to the scene to investigate the fire. The fire was caused by an electrical malfunction in a faulty cell phone charger inside a first-floor bedroom. No one was home when the fire was discovered. There were no reported injuries. Fire damage was estimated at $25,000. Smoke alarms throughout the one story, ranch-style house operated.
New Castle Fire Deliberately Started Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that a fire which heavily damaged a New Castle, Delaware home on March 11, 2020, was deliberately started. The blaze, reported shortly before 2200, occurred in the unit block of Castle Hills Drive in the Castle Hills development. The Good Will Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames engulfing the house. Three firefighters were evaluated for injuries on the scene by the New Castle County paramedics. State fire investigators were called to the scene. The fire was intentionally started inside the dwelling. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $100,000.
Two Burned at Delaware City Refinery Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a fire that occurred on March 11, 2020, at a Delaware refinery in New Castle County that critically injured two workers. Fire and Emergency Medical personnel were dispatched to the Delaware City Refinery at 4550 Wrangle Hill Road near Delaware City, Delaware shortly before 1400 for a report of two burn patients. New Castle County paramedics, fire company medical staff, and the Delaware State Police medical helicopter treated and flew two injured workers to the Christiana Hospital. Deputy fire marshals were notified and responded to the refinery and to the Christiana Hospital to obtain the facts of the incident. Two workers at the Delaware City Refinery sustained burns and were listed in critical condition. Both victims were being assessed at the hospital and prepared for transportation to the Crozer Burn Center in Upland, Pennsylvania.
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Fire News, April 2020, Page 51
Page 52, Fire News, April 2020
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