Editorial

From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor How Are YourNew Recruits Doing?

In New York, the Fireman’s Association of New York has been encouraging fire departments throughout the state to hold a RecruitNYweekend. I am always amazed at the number of people who stop by the firehouse for this event and had no idea that, according to the National Fire Protection Association, 70 percent of firefighters in the United States are volunteers. This number used to be higher. I joined the volunteer fire service almost 30 years ago. As a kid who grew up in New York City, my wife had no idea that the fire service in our community was 100 percent volunteer. When I decided to join my department — with my wife's blessing of course —we soon realized that being a volunteer firefighter involved a lot more that riding on a truck and fighting an occasional fire. Almost 30 years have passed, and I still find my love for my department is still going strong. Unfortunately, my health has gotten in the way of being first due. I am still active in other ways and try my best to support the members who have followed in my footsteps. Before you take on new members, it is imperative that the Chief of Department sits down with the perspective new member to explain what their obligation to the community entails. I know most departments do this. Unfortunately, the new member doesn’t always realize that he or she may not have the time to volunteer. I joined at a time when my two children were active with school and community sports. I worked 50 miles away from my home. There were many nights that I arrived back home and found myself attending training classes at either my department or at the county fire academy. After I finished the basics, I realized that training never stopped. To maintain active status like most volunteer firefighters, you must participate and maintain your training, drills and response percentages throughout the year. This is where new recruits, no matter what their age, become a problem. I know I am speaking to the choir. If you are reading this, you are aware of the responsibilities of being a first responder. The problem I see is that when we take on new members they really do not understand how much time they need to fulfill their obligation to the fire service.

In my early years I always had to work a second job to pay the bills. Volunteering in the fire service is that second job that pays no bills. If you take on this second occupation, you must be passionate about your decision to protect the community! As a recruiter for the fire service, what do you do to make the person fully understand what their obligation is to your department and to the community that you serve, before they sign on the dotted line? If you find that your new recruits are not living up to your expectations, do not let poor service go by without addressing it immediately.

Recruiting volunteers takes time. Maintaining active, well-trained volunteers can be difficult. Volunteer recruitment is hard work! Volunteer retention is even harder work. Motivating and maintaining new recruits is the job of every member in your department. - Dennis

Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921

CFSI: Thank you all for attending the CFSI event in April.

Recruitment and Retention: The Executive Manager, Tucker Dempsey, Jeff Brown and Jason McCabe met today with the Secretary of Education. The purpose of the meeting was to lay the ground work for a Volunteer Recruitment and Career Path program in the Delaware schools. It was a good first meeting and they are looking forward to follow up meetings.

DVFAOffice

Conference 2022: The date will be September 13 to 16, 2022 at the Chase Center. The Conference Committee is working on the plans for this year’s conference.

SB189: SB189 unanimously passed the Senate and the House. We are now waiting notice from the Governor’s Office about the signing of the bill. This bill increases the fire service tax credit from $500 to $1000.

Rescue Billing, HB413: Mike Shaw has been working with the Insurance Commissioner and they have developed a bill. Mike will report more on this. The bill has been filed.

If you need assistance from the DVFA Office please contact us.

Warren Jones Executive Manager 302-535-4566 wjones@dvfassn.com

by Dan Carrier, President, DVFA Well it’s been a busy few months . I would like to thank everyone who attended the CFSI Dinner in April. This was the 15th year Delaware had 10 percent of the dinner attendance. It just shows Delaware Fire Service is still a leader in the national fire service.

I would like to congratulate Tucker

DVFAPresident

Dempsey on being appointed Director of the Delaware State Fire School. Director Dempsey will be leading the Delaware Fire Service in training to the next level.

Congratulations to the Sussex County Paramedics for there third place finish in the GEMS Games. They still hold the record for most first place wins in the games.

Let’s not forget our LADVFAmembers who are all still coming up with new ways to raise money in the changing times in which we are living for their fire companies so they can continue to operate and protect the citizens of the State of Delaware.

All of this just shows that when the Delaware Fire Service comes together we can ahieve great accomplishments. And the citizens of the State of Delaware benefit by getting top notch Fire and EMS service. So please keep up the great work, and work together so we can provide the best service available to our citizens.

Thank you for all you do and all the time you give.

by Pam Ingle, President LADVFA Greetings from the LADVFA! The weather has had a mind of its own for sure, but I hope you are enjoying your spring otherwise.

The State Fire Prevention Awards were presented in April 2022 for the 2021 winners. Great job to all the children who participated. We are very proud of all their hard work.

I was honored to be able to attend the Congressional Fire Service Institute Symposium and Dinner April 6-7, 2022. It was a great learning experience as I attended seminars and the dinner to become more aware of how the CFSI educates members of Congress about fire and life safety issues. This is an amazing organization there to support the fire service.

It is with great sadness that the LADVFA announces the passing of past-State President Eleanor Raye Warrington of Georgetown on April 26, 2022. Eleanor Raye had a huge, loving heart and she would never think twice to share her opinion. She could always make you chuckle, no matter the circumstances. Eleanor Raye will be profoundly missed.

The LADVFAheld its Executive Meeting on Monday, May 2, 2022, at the Cheswold Fire Company. Many issues were discussed including the latest house bills pertaining to the Auxiliaries, SafeServ and its current status, as well as looking to pursue the future process, among other topics. Hopefully we will have more to report back on with these topics at the Conference. We also discussed fires and fire deaths across the state of Delaware. There have been 14 fire deaths since January 2022 yet 10 deaths for the entire 2021 year. Realizing that one is one too many, we all need to be alert, knowledgeable and look out for ourselves as well as others. Don’t ever think you are exempt from this happening to you or someone you know.

I am looking forward to seeing many of you at Conference 2022 which will be held at the Riverfront in Wilmington, September 13-16. Have a happy, healthy and fire-safe summer.

LADVFACorner

House Fire on New Road

Just after2100 on March 31, 2022, Elsmere Station 16 and mutual aid units were dispatched to the 300 block of New Road fora house fire. Engine and Ladder16 arrived to find fire showing from the rearof the residence. Crews from both quickly got a line in service and began to search the residence. Elsmere units were assisted by several mutual aid companies with additional handlines and searching the main fire building and the exposure building. All searches proved negative. - Fire News story by Chief Mark Facciolo; photo by Minquas FC of Newport; Submitted by Frank Maule

Buckley Residential Fire

On March 29, 2022, at 2004, Christiana Fire and automatic aid companies were dispatched to ChandlerCircle in the community of Buckley fora residential structure fire. Engine 12 arrived and reported fire showing from a two-story singlefamily residence. Companies arrived and completed assignments perNCC SOP. Battalion 12 (Lockwood) had command. The fire had extended from the reardeck to the first and second floors and the attic. Three handlines were stretched and operated. The fire was placed undercontrol at 2030. Companies responding: Christiana, Goodwill, Wilmington Manor, Minquas, Cranston Heights, NCCEMS and DSFMO.

- Submitted by Dennis E. Godek

Lawn Mower Fire ... in a Truck

On April 24, 2022, the Seaford VolunteerFire Department was alerted fora vehicle fire. Engine 875 arrived to find a lawnmoweron fire in the bed of a truck that extended into the cab of the truck. The ownerrelated that there were several five-gallon gas cans in front of the mower. Foam was used to control and extinguish the blaze. Crews operated forroughly 30 minutes.

- Submitted by Robin Andino

FireNews.com

Fire News, June 2022, Page 9 Truck Fully Involved in Smyrna

Crews responded to a fully involved truck fire on PierHead Boulevard in Smyrna on May 1, 2022. Two engines and a rescue from Smyrna handled the assignment with one line stretched. No injuries were reported. - Submitted by Mark Rosetti

Looking Back

Millsboro - 1930s

Millsboro Fire Company in the 1930s with theirnew Reo. These coat-and-tie men in theirrubbercoats were the early members of the Millsboro Fire. - Submitted by Larry Gum

Middletown - 2017

- Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray

Seaford Vehicle Fire

On May 3, 2022, the Seaford VolunteerFire Department was alerted fora vehicle fire. Engine 875 arrived and made quick work of extinguishing the blaze. - Submitted by Robin Andino

3rd FloorFire in Wilmington

At 0113 on March 9, 2022, Wilmington Fire units were notified of a residential structure fire on West 18th Street. Engine 5 arrived to fire located on the third floor. Engine 1 assisted with a line and secured a watersupply. Squad 4 completed a search of the building with Ladder1. Ladder2 completed vertical ventilation. The fire extended throughout the third floorand into the roof before units could fully extinguish it. The Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. The following units responded: Engine 3, Engine 1, Engine 5, Engine 2, Squad 4, Ladder1, Ladder2, Battalion-1, Battalion-2, FM-12, St. Francis EMS, New Castle County Paramedics, Wilmington License and Inspection, Wilmington Police, American Red Cross, and Delmarva Power. - Submitted by Matthew Marsella

Well Off Barn Fire

Firefighters from Holloway Terrace Fire Company extinguished a well-off barn fire in the 3000 block of New Castle Avenue on a cold and windy March evening. There were no firefighterinjuries and no loss of livestock. The building had been severely damaged by the time firefighters arrived.

- Submitted by Randy Roberts

CarFire on I-95

On March 19, 2022, at 1803, Squad 17, A-17, TSU-17 and E-22 were alerted foran MVAwith a caron fire on Interstate 95 north in the area of the Little Mill Creek. Squad 17 arrived to find a vehicle fully involved. The Squad crew extinguished the fire while A-17’s EMTs checked forany injuries. No one was found to be injured. Traffic on the northbound lanes of the Interstate were shut down forquite a while causing majordelays. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes

House Fire on S. Dupont

Stations 47, 50 and 78, and Kent County ALS responded to a house fire on South Dupont Highway. First arriving units found fire showing, and the crew from Rescue 47 initiated an interior attack.

- Submitted by Tom Williams

Mayday at Townsend Blaze

Townsend crews arrived to find heavy fire from sides Bravo, Charlie and Delta of a 2-1/2 story single-family home on Railroad Avenue. AMayday was declared but the firefighterwas quickly removed from the dwelling. BLS and ALS transported the injured firefighter. Work was made more difficult due to Collyer’s Mansion conditions.

Page 14, Fire News, June 2022

Assist on Building Fire

- Submitted by Frank Maule

Millsboro Assists

- Submitted by Larry Gum

MajorPropane Tank Leak

- Submitted by Dennis E. Godek Engine Assist at Condo 2nd Alarm

Barn Fire on SugarStick Road

- Submitted by Earl Brode

Beebe Road Fire

- Submitted by Tom Williams

Engine Assists Cranston Heights

- Submitted by Chuck Hayes New Castle Backyard Fire

Cover Story

Dewey Beach Houses, Cars Burn

Recently, the Rehoboth Beach VolunteerFire Company, the Lewes Fire Department and the Bethany Beach Fire Company were dispatched to a report of two houses on fire on Bayard Avenue in Dewey Beach. Upon arrival a third house was also discovered to be on fire. In addition to the houses on fire there were fourvehicles also burning. The fire was called in by Dewey Beach Police OfficerJohn Kane. Companies assisting on the scene were Sussex County EMS and Indian River, Milton, Millville, Millsboro, Memorial, Dagsboro and Ellendale fire companies with Frankford, Greenwood and Carlisle covering Rehoboth and Lewes. Firefighters remained on the scene forfive hours. - Submitted by Warren Jones and Chuck Snyder

Fatal Crash North of Laurel

The Laurel Fire Department, Sussex County EMS and Blades VolunteerFire Company were alerted foran MVAwith entrapment on March 21, 2022, at approximately 1800. Laurel Assistant Chief Mike Lowe responded as 81 Command. Rescue 71 responded from Blades with Fire Chief Jason Hudson. Weatherconditions were difficult due to a passing rainstorm. Laurel EMS and Sussex County EMS arrived to find two patients; one was a priority one with heavy entrapment. Command assigned Chief Hudson as extrication officer. Engine 81-2 was next on the scene with Assistant Chief Joe Thomas as officerwho was assigned operations. Crews worked forabout 20 minutes removing the victim from the vehicle. The male subject was transported to Tidal Health Nanticoke; he died of his injuries three days later. Crews remained on the scene about 90 minutes with clean-up and traffic control.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Whitesville Road MVA

On April 8, 2022, at 0300, the DelmarFire Department was dispatched fora serious MVAwith entrapment. Command 74, Paramedic A-74, Truck 74-4, Engine 74-3, Engine-Tanker74-2, Sussex County EMS Medic 102 and DSPHelicopterTrooper2 responded. Units found a two-vehicle incident on Whitesville Road in which both vehicles struck a large tree that had fallen onto the roadway. One vehicle ended up off the roadway and into a swamp in about three-feet of water. There was heavy entrapment in that vehicle. Additional rescue units were requested for manpowerand tools. Laurel Tower81 and Salisbury Rescue 1 responded. Aroof flap and doorremoval were performed. The extrication required 50 minutes. The patient was extricated and initially treated in Paramedic A-74 by DFD and SCEMS paramedics. The ambulance met Trooper2 at an LZ and the patient was flown to Christiana Hospital. Units from Delmar, Laurel, Salisbury and SCEMS were on-scene forapproximately two hours. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

Clayton MVA

Recently, Clayton firefighters responded to a MVAwith overturn.

- Submitted by Skip Carrow

Overturn MVAand Extrication in Smyrna

On April 18, 2022, Stations 44 and 43 along with Station 64 EMS and Kent County Medic 6 dispatched to Big Oak Road and Chapple Yeatman Road in Smyrna foran MVAwith a vehicle overturned. Arriving units found one vehicle overturned with one person trapped and three self-extricated. Units worked forapproximately 15 minutes to extricate the trapped subject. All patients were transported by ground EMS by American Legion Ambulance 64, Cheswold Fire Company EMS and Lepsic Fire Company EMS to local hospitals. - Submitted by Chuck Mankin

MVAand Extrication

On April 3, 2022, Hockessin, with assistance from Cranston Heights and NCC Paramedics, responded to an MVAat Mill Creek and Brackenville Roads with a vehicle off the road and down an embankment. Rescue crews performed extrication of the trapped occupant with Hockessin EMS and Medics providing patient care. Hockessin fire police also had the road closed during this incident. - Photo courtesy of Stephen Carradin, Vinnie Miller & Cranston Heights FC; Submitted by Mark Felicetti

Police Chase Ends in MVA

On May 9, 2022, at approximately 2045, DoverAFB Fire and Emergency Services responded just outside the Housing Main Gate entrance foran MVAwhich was a result of a police chase by DoverPolice. The chase ended when the vehicle went out of control, jumped a curb and hit a tree. Crews stabilized the vehicle and treated people involved in the accident. - Submitted by Howard Smith

Harrington MVA

On March 31, 2022, at 1051 the Harrington Fire Company, Houston Fire Company (Rescue and Ambulance assist), Kent County EMS and Delaware State Police Aviation were dispatched fora report of an MVAwith entrapment on Liberty Street in the area of Thomas Street. Units arrived to a vehicle overturned with negative entrapment. The lone occupant had self-extricated prior to arrival of units and was suffering from minorinjuries. The injured subject was transported by ambulance to a local hospital fortreatment. - Submitted by Earl Brode

FireNews.com

Fire News, June 2022, Page 19 Multiple People Trapped in S. Dupont MVA

Station 47, Rescue Company 50, Ambulances 50, 52, 78, Kent County and Sussex County ALS responded to an MVC with entrapment on South Dupont Highway and Hammondtown Road. Crews arrived to find a two-vehicle MVAwith multiple patients trapped in one vehicle.

- Submitted by Tom Williams

NCC*EMS New Castle County’s Paramedic Academy Application Period Open

The New Castle County Paramedics are excited to announce the application period for the 5th Paramedic Academy is now open. The 5th Academy is expected to start January of 2023. New Castle County Paramedic academies are run in conjunction with the accredited Good Fellowship Paramedic Program, held in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The deadline to apply is August 1, 2022.

What makes the academy such a great opportunity you ask? It’s simple, you not only are paid to go to school (yes paid!) but tuition and books are paid for, you receive medical and dental benefits, as well as uniforms. What’s the catch? We require that you successfully complete the program and sign a five-year service contract, which will begin at day one of employment. While some people may balk at signing a contract, in essence you are guaranteed a job for five years. That’s a pretty sweet deal.

The academy setting has morphed over the past four academies into something which is not only educational but is a cohesive and supportive environment for the recruits. They learn together, study together, experience different events together and then will hit the street together. The didactic portion of the academy is expected to last approximately 12 months and the recruits will then transition to the field portion.

The New Castle County Paramedics are widely regarded as a progressive agency, providing exceptional emergency medical services for some of the most diverse districts in Delaware. We cover everything, from urban to industrial to rural areas. If you want a comprehensive work experience, New Castle County EMS is worth a closer look. We are looking for a motivated group of dedicated individuals who want to provide exceptional pre-hospital care to this community. Come be part of a great team, at a job unlike any other.

Want to know more? Check out our website, https://www.newcastlede.gov/341/EMS or find us on social media. Instagram: @ncc_paramedics; Facebook: New Castle County Paramedics. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC Paramedics Visit the USS Delaware

While clearing an incident at the Port of Wilmington on March 31, 2022, SeniorSergeant PeterSmall and Medic 1B caught a glimpse of the incredible USS Delaware. The nuclearsubmarine was docked at the port fora commissioning commemoration to be held overthe weekend.

NCC*EMS Entrapment in Hockessin

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

House Fire in Middletown; 1 FFTransported

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

MVAWith Entrapment in Wilmington

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

2 Critical in Claymont MVA

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Two Heavily Trapped in Townsend

NCC*EMS Paramedic Richard Orkis Jr. Retires

After32 Years with NCC*EMS

On March 24, 2022, Paramedic First Class Richard Orkis, Jr., was met with a ceremonial walk-out following his final shift after 32 years as a paramedic with New Castle County. The event was attended by current paramedics, retired paramedics, fire service partners, educators, NCC officials, Delaware Technical Community College Staff, friends and Rick’s family. Rick’s wife and children are also paramedics who all work with various agencies in Delaware. New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer was on hand and presented a proclamation to Rick declaring March 24, 2022 as Richard Orkis Jr. Day in New Castle County.

Originally from Chester County in Pennsylvania, Rick moved to Claymont and attended the paramedic program at the Medical Center of Delaware, obtaining his National Registry Paramedic in August of 1991. Rick was active with the Claymont Fire Company as a firefighter, EMTand member of the New Castle County Special Operations Team with certifications in both trench and collapse rescue.

Rick served in multiple roles throughout his decorated career including member of the EMS Bike Team, Field Training Officer (FTO), member of the vehicle design committee, American Heart Association CPR Instructor, State of Delaware Protocol Committee, Assistant Recruiter and High School Mentor. Aman of few words, his clinical skills are some of the best in the business and his calm and cool-underpressure demeanor became a model for those following in his footsteps. He’s a legend in his own right and will certainly be missed by all, especially his Aplatoon family.

Congratulations, Rick, on your retirement and we thank you for touching the lives of thousands over your 32-year career with NCC*EMS! - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC*EMS Holds Promotional Ceremony Delayed by Pandemic

On March 29, 2022, the New Castle County Paramedics held a promotional ceremony forthose promoted to supervisory positions overthe past two years. Due to Covid restrictions, this event was delayed until now. The event was held at the Audion on the University of Delaware’s STAR Campus and celebrated the promotion of eight paramedics including the chief of the division. Those officially receiving theirbadges included Chief Mark R. Logemann, Assistant Chief ChristopherA. Johnson, Lieutenant David B. Aber, Lieutenant Isaac J. Hankins, Lieutenant Autumn M. Tuxward, Sergeant Scott B. Kier, Sergeant Jeffrey R. Russell, and Sergeant Allen C. Short. Lieutenant Tuxward was also presented with the County Executive’s Award forherwork and leadership with building multiple Covid-19 testing initiatives in New Castle County and otherareas throughout the country. Congratulations to all who were recognized during this event. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

Multiple Departments Provide Medical Coverage for Delaware Running Festival in Wilmington

Multiple agencies provided medical coverage forthe Delaware Running Festival held in the City of Wilmington and on the Jack Markell Trail in New Castle. The Delaware Running Festival, by Corrigan Sports Enterprises, was held on Sunday, April 24, 2022, and included a half and full marathon. Participants from the MidAtlantic region ran through the City of Wilmington and along the Jack A. Markell Trail from Tubman-Garrett Park to the City of New Castle and back. Agencies worked togetherand included EMS providers from New Castle County Paramedics, Wilmington Fire, Good Will Fire Company, Five Points Fire Company, Delaware City Fire Company, University of Delaware Emergency Care Unit and New Castle County 911 Centerto provide an efficient medical operation. Personnel coordinated efforts throughout the entire event to assure the thousands of participants remained safe and healthy. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC*EMS Delaware Resuscitation Academy Held in Newark

The Delaware Resuscitation Academy was held on May 4, 2022, by New Castle County Paramedics at the Embassy Suites in Newark. Attendees from the fire service, BLS, neighboring paramedic agencies, law enforcement and hospital partners made up the 50 participants who attended the fullday event. The Resuscitation Academy’s mission is to improve survival from cardiac arrest through a fellowship program designed specifically forfirst responders, EMS providers, managers, and EMS medical directors. The academy models itself afterthe Seattle Resuscitation Academy and includes lecture modules and hands-on skill stations fora stimulating learning environment. Participants gained an understanding of the science behind high performance CPR, performance measures, and the knowledge, skills and ability to increase survival rates. If you missed the program this time, there will be anotheropportunity in Septemberas the Delaware Resuscitation Academy will be presented by New Castle County Paramedics at the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association annual conference. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC Paramedics Participate in MCI Exercise

On April 23, 2022, New Castle County Paramedics participated in a full-scale mass casualty exercise held at the New Castle County Airport. Paramedics along with multiple local fire department and otheragencies worked togetherto triage, treat and transport multiple simulated patients, re-creating an actual emergency. The exercise is held bi-annually to test the airport’s ability to respond to such incidents.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas; photos courtesy of NCC EMS & John Jankowski

New Castle County Paramedics Recognized at Awards Ceremony

On April 11, 2022, the New Castle County Department of Public Safety held its semi-annual awards ceremony for police, paramedics and communications. Below is a full list of paramedics who were recognized fortheirclinical excellence and outstanding performance during critical incidents during the second half of 2021. Three paramedics also got the opportunity to reunite with a patient who was critically injured following a traumatic event. Congratulations to all of those who were recognized fortheiramazing work. Award Recipients

SeniorLieutenant Joseph J. Dudley; Lieutenant Isaac J. Hankins; SeniorSergeant Abigail E. Haas; Sergeant Jeffrey R. Russell; SeniorCorporal Ruoy L. Koontz; Senior Corporal ChristopherO. Rainey; SeniorCorporal Kenneth Sliney (retired); SeniorCorporal Robert A. Taylor; Senior Corporal Jorge H. Vasquez; Corporal ChristopherL. Boyles; Corporal Brian C. Bradford; Corporal Jessica M. Mahon; Paramedic First Class Miguel C. Cruz; Paramedic First Class William J. Doan; Paramedic First Class Michael P. O'Shaughnessy; Paramedic First Class Brittney M. Paoli; Paramedic First Class Jack W. Warrick; Paramedic Matthew A. Casson;and Paramedic Jordan Rivera. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC*EMS Two NCC Paramedics Nominated for Jefferson Award

Two New Castle County Paramedics were named as 2022 Jefferson Award Nominees. This award is given to individuals who have devoted theirlife to exceptional public service and volunteerism in any arena. Lieutenant Autumn M. Tuxward and Senior Corporal ChristopherJ. Schad are just two of the 11 nominated New Castle County unsung hero employees working every day for the greatergood. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

NCC*EMS NCC Paramedics Rock TheirSocks forWorld Down’s Syndrome Day

New Castle County’s Department of Public Safety celebrated World Down’s Syndrome Day by wearing brightly colored, mismatched socks. The karyotype of Down’s Syndrome chromosomes actually looks like mismatched socks! March 21 is symbolic because people with Down Syndrome have three copies of their21st chromosome. Throughout the week of March 21 paramedics were rockin’theirsocks to raise awareness and support the Down’s Syndrome Association of Delaware. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

SCEMS Sussex County EMS Awards Banquet

After a two-year hiatus the annual Sussex County EMS Awards Banquet was able to return as an in-person event. The banquet was held at the Blades Fire Company and the following were recognized for their contributions in 2021. Sussex County EMS and the Sussex County Volunteer Ambulance Association congratulate all the winners for being recognized by their peers. Sussex County EMS Awards

Paramedic of the Year - Maria Berdan; Field Training Officer - Dave Hammerer; Administrative Excellence - Matt Troutman; Support Staff of the Year - Bryan Murray; District Supervisor of the Year - Lars Granholm; EMTof the Year East District - Bo Thomas; EMTof the Year West District - Deanna Loeb; EMS Nurse of the Year - Lindsay White; EMS Physician of the Year - Dr. John Hilton; Emergency Communications Specialist - Dale Roberts; and Caring People - Officer Catherine Hazel, Ocean View PD. SCVFAAof the YearAwards

Fire Chief of the Year - Travis Timmons; Paramedic of the Year Campbell Hollinger; EMTof the Year - Maggie Zwiebel; EMS Supervisor of the Year - Jay Myers; Cliff Lee Award - Nicole Oliphant; Nurse of the Year - Beth Kent; and Police Officer of the Year Liana Dodson. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall; photos courtesy of Wayne Barrall Photography

Coverage continues on next page.

SCEMS

Sussex County EMS Awards Banquet continued from page 29

SCEMS Maria Berdan Selected as Joshua M Freeman ValorAward Winner

Sussex County EMS submitted Paramedic Maria Berdan for the paramedic candidate for the Joshua M Freeman Award. Maria was selected as the paramedic winner and the overall winner. The submitted narrative is below.

“Sussex County EMS is proud to submit Maria Berdan for the Joshua M. Freeman Valor Award.

“Maria was a victim of an assault while on duty in August 2015 causing multiple spinal discs to rupture. The injuries were debilitating and prevented Maria from performing as a field provider during her treatment and recovery process. In lieu of almost guaranteed short and ultimate long-term disability, Maria’s work ethic drove her to receive approval for light duty, which allowed her to work in our administrative office. During that time Maria balanced her schedule with ongoing rehabilitation and her office duties. Maria quickly learned to work the county billing system with limited supervision, allowing her to fill in for an office staff clerk who was on long-term medical leave. This eliminated the need for a part-time position. Maria took the initiative to expand her duties, further reducing the workload of other office and admin staff.

“Just 15 months later in April 2018, Maria was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer which carried with it an extremely high mortality rate. Maria was unwilling to accept the fate of her diagnosis and began the fight of her life. Adouble mastectomy and multiple other surgeries were performed. Maria was also selected to participate in a trial treatment that included radiation and chemotherapy which required constant travel to Baltimore. Maria’s determination and positive attitude never wavered, and the treatment plan was successful. When another opportunity of long-term disability presented itself, Maria chose to return to work full duty, without restriction, in April 2019 all while still receiving cancer treatments.

“Less than one-year later we faced a highly contagious pandemic that preyed on the most vulnerable populations. While all paramedics faced uncertain risk in dealing with Covid, Maria had an even higher risk. The very treatment she required to defeat cancer destroyed her immune system. Despite her doctors begging her to stop working, her desire to work in

the field providing exceptional care never wavered. In the last year while receiving ongoing treatment Maria used just one sick day. In addition to her field work Maria was active with the mass casualty committee (MCI) and the bike team. Members of the bike team are required to pass a demanding physical test annually, and when she was given the opportunity to bypass testing, she refused and would not accept any modifications. She passed the test each year without issue. Maria recently applied and successfully tested for the position of Paramedic Three, which serves as mentor to the shift and fills in as a district supervisor when they are on vacation or completing field shifts. Maria has been a tremendous asset since her promotion. Maria has received several letters of appreciation from patients, families, and partnering fire departments. “Maria Berdan demonstrates valor every day she comes to work and does so with an inspiring positive attitude where failure or quitting is not an option. Maria wants her peers and colleagues to know that despite the most terrifying diagnosis, they can choose to fight, use every resource, and expend all their energy to win the battle, and to simply never quit. “All Sussex County EMS employees are inspired by Maria and appreciate her willingness to share her story. “I am honored to submit paramedic three Maria Berdan for the 2022 Joshua M. Freeman Valor Award.” SCEMS is extremely proud of Maria’s recognition for her courage and dedication to serving the community. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall SCEMS Competition Team Scores

Bronze at JEMS Games

The Sussex County EMS Competition Team has a long history of excellence and this year was nothing short of that. The team continues to do well at the JEMS competition, finishing top three for the last four years running, held in Indianapolis in conjunction with FDIC. The team successfully completed a preliminary competition before the final event composed of four parts: a cardiac arrest of a hypothermic four-year-old lost in the woods; a symptomatic priority 1 calcium channel overdose that required multiple interventions; an MCI involving an explosion; and a knowledge based exam. The team entered the finals against the FDNYand Miami Dade Fire Departments and took part in a scenario that involved a building collapse where: a patient required an amputation; a worker was electrocuted; and a civilian suffered an asthma attack, while another worker was removed with severe burns. The team ultimately represented Sussex County EMS and the state well with a third-place victory. This competition is open to EMS from around the globe and our team is actively preparing for the next competition. In addition to the competition, 12 Sussex County Paramedics attended the conference at JEMS/FDIC where members learned valuable information they brought back to the department to enhance the care that citizens and visitors receive. - Submitted by Matt Troutman

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL DVFAHonors 2021 Posterand Essay Winners

On April 3, 2022 the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association held a program at the Cheswold Fire Company banquet hall honoring the winners of the 2021 Posterand Essay Contest. Paul Eichler, of the Dover/Anne Arundel County Fire Departments and instructorwith the Delaware State Fire School was the Master of Ceremonies. The Life Safety Committee of the DVFAworked very hard to maintain the program during Covid. Hopefully it will expand everfurtherin 2022. Winners pictured: Front row left to right: Jaydah Stratton, Lauryn Gainey, Isabel Bushey, Jaden Krawczyk, Abigail Fortney, Cole Bauer, Annabelle Pettyjohn Ellison James, and Fiona Lenhardt. Second row, left to right: Madeline Howard, Libby Li, Mariah Gibbs, Nathan Rogers, Logan McGraw, Aoife Tierney, Gia Forston, Marisa Golan and Anelise Corbett. Back row, left to right: Kathleen Washinski. Bradley Tomeski, Kamree Morton, Coen Moore, Katherine Malone and SkylarLindenbau. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

Fire Behavior and Flow Path Training at Laurel

The Laurel Fire Department’s training in April was held with Delaware State Fire School InstructorGordon Davis instructing 15 students on fire behaviorand flow path training. Students saw the path of fire and the dangers in a miniature simulated twostory dwelling fire. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

The Spring Basic Skills Class at DSFS

The spring Basic Firefighting Skills class ran at the Delaware State Fire School on the weekends of March 26 and 27, April 2 and 3 and wrapped up on April 9 and 10, with 107 students registered. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL

Sanford School Holds Schoolwide Health Fair

The Sanford School, in Hockessin, held a schoolwide health fair on March 31, 2022. Participants included Hockessin Fire Company, St. Francis EMS, Nemours for Children, the Delaware State Fire School and New Castle County Safekids. Event CoordinatorShannon Helmecki reported the health fairreached approximately 350 students and staff. Pictured: Sadie Perry and Veronica Williams interact with staff of the Delaware State Fire School discussing theirknowledge of Fire Safety. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

Happy Birthday to Sparky!

Everybody’s favorite fire safety dog, Sparky, celebrated his 71st birthday on March 18, 2022. Since 1951, Sparky has helped fire professionals, teachers, civic organizations, corporations, youth programs, and the media deliver invaluable messages about smoke alarms, escape planning, and seasonal safety considerations. As Sparky blew out the battery operated candles on his birthday cake, fire safety officials ask that you take note of important fire and life safety messages, including: • Install working smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. • Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. • Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of each level of the home. Show all doors and windows and point to the two ways out of each room. • Plan and practice your escape drill with everyone in the home. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

DoverPolice Recruits Train at DSFS

On March 17 and 18, 2022, Law Enforcement Fire Survival Training was held at the Delaware State Fire School forthe 3rd Municipal Class of the Dover Police Department. The 24 students participated in two days of training that saw them obtain their ProBoard Hazardous Materials Certification. Also, training was held regarding the structure of Delaware Emergency Services, ladders, fire extinguishers, drags and carries of moving patients, sprinkleroperations as well as fire behavior. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

Pocomoke City, Maryland Honors Local Firefighters

The Pocomoke City (MD) VolunteerFire Company held an event on April 16, 2022, commemorating the 100th anniversary of a fire that destroyed Pocomoke City’s business section on April 17, 1922. Local Fire Departments sent assistance to Pocomoke City from Maryland towns including Snow Hill, Berlin, Crisfield, Princess Anne, Salisbury and Cambridge. Delaware Fire Departments responded from Delmar, Laurel and Seaford. The Seaford Fire Department was represented at the ceremony by Chief Jack Wilson, with Assistant Chief Mike Lowe representing Laurel. - Submitted by Michael Lowe