Fire News Kentucky, July/August 2023

Story on page 6.

- Photos courtesy of London Laurel Rescue Squad

ALearning Experience

Lone Oaks FD responds for a brush fire and learns some tricks for fighting a bamboo grove fire.

See story on page 9

Lexington City Council Fire Fighting Intro

The Lexington City Council gets an up close look at firefighting, courtesy of Lexington FD.

See story on page 13

Hot Times, Hot Cars

Zoneton warns of weather, cars, kids and pets.

See story on page 18

Louisville’s McAdam and Martin Remembered

Sean McAdam and John Martin are honored at the NFF Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg.

See story on page 19

Thanking Their Paramedics

Lexington First Platoon hold an appreciation breakfast for their paramedics.

See story on page 24

Obituary

LODD

Ashland’s Mitch Todd Christian

See story on page 26

AService for Kentucky Firefighters and EMS Providers

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From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

When Does Training End?

I recently overheard a conversation between two firefighters who were talking about all of the experience they had in their department. I looked up and asked, “how many years have you been in the department?” I actually chuckled when I was told by one of the members that he had six years of experience in the fire service. I am willing to bet that as you read my last sentence, you too have a smile on your face. Truthfully, being a first responder is a job that requires constant training and practice from your first day on the job until your last.

Years of service does not necessarily qualify you to say that you are an experienced responder. This time of the year, I get nervous because we are entering brush fire season. Let’s face it, many firefighters have very little experience fighting brush fires. I am sure if you have been in the fire service for a few years, you have encountered a brush fire that might appear large to you upon arrival, but in reality it was a small fire that was quickly knocked down by two or three members who were lucky enough to be part of the crew on the brush truck. The fire that I worry about is the wind-driven brush fire that manages to take advantage of the strong winds of spring and runs through an area like a freight

train. The next time you sit in your ready room, share stories of brush fires of the past that have challenged your department.

Training never ends. All responders need to know every aspect of their job. Are you able to perform your job when the conditions get rough? Ask yourself if you are truly physically fit to perform under challenging conditions. Kudos to those members that go to the gym regularly to maintain their fitness and cardio performance.

Are you a student of your craft? Do you read articles that talk about recent fires or new products? When was the last time you came down to the firehouse and took a short rope and performed some of the basic knots with which you’re supposed to be proficient? Do you know how to use that knot to quickly hoist a line or a tool to a roof? If you think you can, challenge yourself and do it! Talking about forcing a door is not the same as doing it. Don’t wait for the yearly drill on a specific tool. You must remain proficient in the techniques and operations that you use every day.

Regardless of your years of experience, your current rank or your rank from the past, lead by example. Remain dedicated to your job. Study, practice, try new things, and ask

questions! Astory of the past that is shared with one another means nothing if it does not end with a lesson being shared and learned by others.

When the alarm sounds, respond to the call with enthusiasm. If you miss the truck, stay at the firehouse until the truck returns. Offer to fill bottles, wash tools, and hear the story about the call.

When does training end? I say never!

- Dennis

Cover Story

Tree Down Traps Driveron Cherry Ave.

London Laurel Rescue Squad responded to a two-vehicle MVA recently. Strong winds blew a very large tree overthe roadway of Cherry Avenue and trapped one driverunderthe tree along and took live powerand communication lines with it. Afterutilities were disconnected, responders cleared a path to the vehicle wit h chainsaws. Specific branches of the tree had to remain in place for safe weight distribution. Responders were able to open the driver’s doorand the occupant walked out. The driverreported no injuries. Also responding were Ambulance Inc. of Laurel County, Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, and West Knox Fire Department.

- Photos courtesy of London Laurel Rescue Squad

NATIONALFALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION AND FIRSTRESPONDER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE SELECTNEW CHIEFEXECUTIVE OFFICER

Following the recent retirement announcement of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) Executive Director Chief Ron Siarnicki, the NFFF and FRCE Board of Directors began a nationwide search for a replacement. Utilizing the services of Vetted Solutions, a Washington DC-based executive search firm specializing in non-profit work, the Board-established search committee has selected NFFF Managing Director Victor Stagnaro to lead the organization after Chief Siarnicki finishes his term in December of 2023.

Victor Stagnaro joined the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation staff in 2010 and serves as the Managing Director, overseeing NFFF’s Family and Fire Service Programs, Marketing, and Business Management. Prior to that, he served for 25 years with the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department and retired as the Deputy Fire Chief of Emergency Operations in early 2010. His involvement with the Foundation dates back to 1998, when he served as the Incident Commander for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend for several years; he also served as a member of the initial Ne w York Response Team on 9/11 for the Foundation.

“We are delighted to have Victor take the reins of our organization as he has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and commitment to the mission of both the NFFF and FRCE since joining our team. It was an exhaustive process, and he clearly exhibited the capabilities to take over this leadership role. We look forward to what he will do to move both organizations forward,” said Troy Markel, Chairman of the NFFF Board of Directors.

“I have known Victor back to the days when he served with the Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department and his level of professionalism and commitment to excellence has been his mainstay in all that he has been involved with. I know he will take the FRCE to new levels as it continues to service our Public Safety Partners,” said Chief Ernie Mitchell, Chairman of the FRCE Board of Directors.

Pembroke Handles MVA

Recently, Pembroke Fire Department’s Deputy Chief Peterson and Mini Pumper 1752 with Captain Stealy, responded to a single-car MVA. Injuries were minor.

- Photo courtesy of Pembroke FD

Hwy. 552 MVA with Extrication

Recently, the London-Laurel Rescue Squad responded to an MVAwith entrapment on Highway 552. Responders extricated one patient forEMS afterstabilizing the vehicle. Also responding were Ambulance Inc. of Laurel County, the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office and Lily Fire and Rescue. - Photo courtesy of London-Laurel RS

Up Close & Personal

Firefighters from the Hebron Fire Protection District. - Photos courtesy of Hebron FD

Lessons Learned at Bamboo Fire

About 1600 on EasterSunday 2023, the Lone Oak Fire Department received a call fora field/grass fire. Firefighters responded with the qui ck attack truck, with a pumperforextra water. Upon arrival firefighters discovered a structure fire, and added a ladder, anotherpumperand automatic aid from Concord Fire to the call. The Quick Attack Truck got to the house and drove to the backyard to find a grove of bamboo on fire. As he ran out of waterthe first pumper arrived and pulled two cross lays. The othertwo trucks arrived and pulled anothercross lay. There were three residences with back yards on fire from the bamboo. There were tiny explosions going off the entire time and the smoke was so thick crews donned SCBAs to fight the fire. The heat was so intense it melted siding on two of the houses. The small explosions were from the airbeing trapped in the hollow parts of the bamboo and expanding from the heat and exploding. Bamboo is very flammable and burns very hot. It also has compounds in it that are highly flammable. Its ignition temperature is 509 F. and when it is burning ,the fumes are toxic and contain heavy metals. We had never fought a bamboo fire so it was a learning experience, and we would like to warn otherfirefighters about the dangers of bamboo fires.

- Submitted by Debbie Peck, Assistant Chief

Zoneton Handles Log SplitterAccident

Recently, Zoneton Fire and Bullitt County EMS responded to a person who had fingers caught in a log splitter. We’d like to raise people’s awareness that accidents happen quickly and without warning. Accidents can be reduced by maintaining equipment in good repair, reading and following all the safety rules that come with equipment, not being in a hurry and keeping yourmind on the task at hand. Fortunately, the staff at University of Louisville/Jewish Hospital’s hand care centeris very good and the prognosis in this instance was fora complete recovery. We hope by sharing this story, we can reinforce things people already know (but might appreciate a reminderfor).

- Photos courtesy of Zoneton FD

Lawn Mowers on Fire in Madisonville

Madisonville firefighters responded to lawn mowers on fire at Rural King recently.

- Submitted by John Dunning

Madisonville Trains on WaterSafety

With the summerheat ramping up, more and more people are taking advantage of ourlocal parks and wateropportunities. With the increase of people on the water, the Madisonville Fire Departme nt took advantage of the warm weatherto do some boat training on Grapevine Lake. - Photos courtesy of Madisonville FD

Henderson Trains on SAR

Henderson Fire Department Engine 1’s crew drilling on searchand-rescue operations.

- Photo courtesy of Henderson FD

Lexington City Council Gets a Taste of Firefighting

The Lexington Fire Department would like to thank the Lexington City council members who could attend this year’s Council Field Day. Field Day allows Lexington’s City Council members and theiraides to learn what we do hands-on. This year, attendees were able to rappel from the tower, extinguish a fire, cut up a car, watch an EMS scenario play out, and learn more about the Lexington Fire Department. And special thanks to the Training Academy, the Community Services Bureau, Community Paramedicine, ourFire and EMS crews, and ourLFD executive staff forhosting and organizing such a fun and educational event.

- Photos courtesy of Lexington FD

Madisonville

C-Shift Trains

Madisonville C-Shift took advantage of some beautiful weatherto train on parapet walls at the Mark Boaz Training Centerat Station 4.

- Photos courtesy of Madisonville FD

Training ForAll in Lexington

It is no easy task to get 500-plus firefighters on the same page, orin this case, in the same classroom. One of the ways we orchestrate training when we can’t get everyone to the same class is through instructional videos. Captain Chris Rudd of Rescue 1 and FirefighterFrank Handshoe from the Fire Training Academy filmed an elevatorrescue class beneficial to all firefighters and ourcommunity. - Photos courtesy of Lexington FD

Hebron Trains

When not responding to calls for service, the men and women of the Hebron Fire Protection District spend several hours of each day training forthe next emergency. Here is Ladder41 training on Stoke’s basket operations.

- Photos courtesy of Hebron FD

Hot Times, Hot Cars

Summer heat is approaching. Each year we get too many calls about kids and pets being locked in hot cars. Acar can heat up by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes and become deadly. Children are more vulnerable to heatstroke. Please take the extra second or two to confirm no one remains in a vehicle before pressing the lock button.

This week we practiced getting into locked cars, should time be on our side. But, if the occupant appears to be in distress, the axe or window punch is coming out right away. We won’t hesitate when it comes to safety.

We will only respond if there is a child or pet locked in a vehicle. There are other services available to unlock vehicles if keys are merely forgotten.

- Photos courtesy of Zoneton FD

Fire Academy Graduates 21 Recruits

On May 12, 2023, the Fire Academy of Kentucky graduated 21 recruits from Class 002. Recruits from 10 fire departments across the Commonwealth spent five days a week participating in daily physical fitness routines and firefightertraining to become proficient in fire-

fighteroperations. These recruits will return to theirrespective departments fully certified and ready to protect the citizens of their communities. Planning and preparation forClass 003 is underway and will begin in August.

- Submitted by Ericka Cole

Louisville’s McAdam and Martin Remembered

Every year, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation hosts the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, MD. The mem orial is an official national tribute to firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. At this year’s event (2023) Louisville Fire Department Firefighters Sean McAdam and John Martin were honored at the memorial. Louisville’s Big FourBridge glows red that night in respect for ourfallen and theirfamilies.

- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD

Zoneton

Attends Field Day

Zoneton firefighters were recently invited to Brooks Elementary School fortheir field-day festivities. They enjoyed being drenched on a warm day.

- Photos courtesy of Zoneton FD

Louisville FFs Help the WHAS Crusade forChildren

Assisting at Kentucky Derby Day

Each year, Louisville firefighters help the WHAS Crusade for Children make life better for children with special needs. Recently, Louisville Engine 20 (Highlands) kicked off the Crusade weekend with their friends at Nazareth Nursing Home. Many residents at Nazareth were once Crusade Kids, and they are passionate about the Crusade. They are also fond of our firefighters.

Nazareth collected $359 to donate on behalf of Engine 20! Their generosity, kindness and desire to give back is inspiring! We encourage the community to help LFD make life better for children

with special needs. One hundred percent of the money raised provides critical resources for the most precious and vulnerable individuals in our community.

Ways to Give:

• WHASCrusade.org

• CashApp $crusadechildren

• Venmo CrusadeForChildren

• PayPal WHAS Crusade for Children

• Mail 520 W. Chestnut St, Louisville KY40202

Remember to include the Louisville Fire Department’s name with your donation.

- Photo courtesy of Louisville FD

Members of the Lexington Fire Department assisted the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Hazardous Incident Response Team at the Kentucky Derby. - Photo courtesy of Lexington FD

Members of the City of Corbin FD Get New Engine

The Corbin Fire Department announced the addition of a new fire engine to its fleet. The department has purchased a 2022 Spartan FC94. South East Apparatus custom built the apparatus to specifications designed by the fire department. This is the first new fire apparatus purchase since 2001, and it will be replacing a 1998 EOne demo model truck. The new engine has 450 horsepower; a 1,500-gpm pump; 1,000-gallon watertank; and custom graphics. It is named Engine 2, and will serve the citizens of the city of Corbin betterwith its updated technology. The hoses are longerand its pump system is loaded with a foam technology that assists putting out fires quicker, automatic equipment that regulates itself in comparison to the old engine which an operatorhad to do manually. The project in addition to some new equipment cost about $465,000 and has taken about 14 months from design to the final stages.

- Submitted by Nathan Kirby

Madisonville Hosts Kindergarten Class

Madisonville firefighters had an amazing time today with the kindergarten classes from Earlington Elementary School. EES Students learned about fire safety, took a station and truck tour, and got to spray water! If yourchild orgroup would like to come and see the fire department, we are always eagerto give tours. Please contact us first at 270824-2148 so we can consult with the battalion chief about any training or otherduty that is scheduled.

- Photos courtesy of Madisonville FD

Pembroke’s Lt. Lestienne Relocating

The Pembroke Fire Department recently said goodbye to Lieutenant Richard Lestienne, Jr., and his family as they are moving to Tennessee. It’s been an honorto have Richard and his family with us forthe last three-and-half years. Lieutenant Lestienne, Jr., will be missed, but the dooris always open when you guys are in the area.

- Photos courtesy of Pembroke FD

Thanking OurMedics

Lexington Fire Department First Platoon officers hosted a Paramedic Appreciation Breakfast at the Local 526 Union Hall forall of the First Platoon Paramedics assigned to their12 ambulances (24 total medics). This idea began on Second Platoon this yearand was brought to First Platoon by Captain Jason Picklesimerof Engine 4 and Captain Adam Day of Engine 8, each of whom also delivered a quick encouragement on the topic of leadership. Attendees were honored to have retired LFD Paramedic/FirefighterJeff Godby speak about his 22yearcareeron LFD Ambulances. Each paramedic left with a gift as a small token of the appreciation fortheir hard work and professionalism. OurBuggy crews are busy day and night in high stress enviroments. First Platoon Officers wished to create a culture where thankfulness is communicated to ourparamedics and appreciation is demonstrated. Ourmedics are valued and their hard work does not go unnoticed. Keep up the great work paramedics! Keep up the leadership LFD officers.

- Photos courtesy of Lt. Larkin Lair & Lexington FD

Henderson at Health Fair

Recently, Henderson firefighters participated in a health fair held at The Gathering Place.

- Photos courtesy of Henderson FD

Obituary Ashland’s Mitch Todd Christian

The Ashland Fire Department is saddened to announce the Line of Duty Death of retired Battalion Chief Mitch Todd Christian. BC Christian lost his battle with occupational related cancer on April 10, 2023.

He began his career as a Firefighter with the Ashland Fire Department in March 1995. He was promoted through the ranks and retired as a Battalion Chief after 25 years of service in August 2020.

BC Christian was involved in the dive team and part of many recoveries across our region. He was one of the early in-house fire investiga-

Patches

From left:

Nelson Fire Rescue

Brownsville Fire Department

Knottsville Fire & EMS

tors for the department and was a proud member of the International Association of Firefighters Local 706.

BC Christian was born February 6, 1963, in Ashland, Kentucky, a son of the late Jack Henry and Myrna Gail McCallister Christian. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years Debbie Greathouse Christian; a son Jeremy Christian and his wife Ginger of Ocean Springs, Mississippi; a daughter Ayla Christian and her husband David Chaltas of Ashland; grandchildren Lucius, Daisy, Andrea, Isaac and Boone; two brothers Brian Christian of Racel;

BC Christian adored his grandchildren and his best times were spent with them. He was a 1981 graduate of Raceland High School. Mitch enjoyed running track and playing football for the Raceland Rams.

In the coming days, weeks, and months, we ask you keep the family in your thoughts and prayers. - Submitted by the Ashland FD

Gordon Christian and his wife Joan of Worthington; and a sister Jennifer Christian of Chapin, South Carolina; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.