Images and wrap ups of the work in Helene’s aftermath.
See story on pages 4, 6 & 7
Matthews House Fire
Heavy smoke on arrival, but crews bring the fire under control in 20 minutes.
See story on page 11
Raleigh firefighters respond to an active-shooter call, which, fortunately, turns out not to be one.
See story on page 13
Structure Fire
in Mooresville ... Not Mooresville and Troutman
FFs find a car fire under an overhang instead.
See story on page 17
Special Section
Cancer in the Fire Service
See on pages 25 to 35
Remembering 9/11
Amemorial MC ride in Wake County, a stop in Raleigh and a stair climb in Charlotte remembering 9/11.
See story on page 41
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO
TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer
GARYP. JOYCE, Editor
MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production
LYNN SEDLER, Art Director
CLIFFCHIESA, Production Manager
BARBARACONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales
SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager
BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant
GREG JONES, Graphic Artist
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus
CONTRIBUTORS: Kenneth Clouser, Chris Creighton, Kevin Imm, William G. Kennedy Mike Legeros, Andrew Tetreault
COPYRIGHT2024, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEWYORK. ALLRIGHTS RESERVED FOR MORE INFORMATION, (631) 776-0500 Advertising: Ext3, Editorial: Ext 281 or LI@firenews.com
Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions
Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
Proud Member Of:
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713.
page 36
page 37
221 New York State Agencies Deployed to Assist with Hurricane Helene Recovery
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that 221 state and local government workers had been deployed to the southern United States to assist communities in North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia to help with response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Team members included staff from the National Guard, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, Department of Transportation, Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Police, Thruway Authority, Agriculture and Markets, Office of Information Technology Services, New York City, Ulster and Montgomery counties. New York State is continuing to respond to additional requests for assistance related to Helene and was gearing up to provide resources if requested as Hurricane Milton headed toward Florida.
The New York National Guard has dispatched 48 soldiers and airmen to assist the North Carolina National Guard. Sixteen soldiers and three CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters from B Company of the 3rd Battalion 126th Aviation were dispatched from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Rochester (NY) to Greenville South Carolina on September 29, 2024. They operated from a South Carolina National Guard facility in support of missions in North Carolina. As of October 7, the team had moved 89 tons of food, water and rescue equipment and moved 26 response personnel. This includ-
ed Army Special Forces Soldiers from Fort Liberty, North Carolina, and two special reconnaissance vehicles.
Twelve airmen from the 107th Attack Wing’s 107th Fatality Search and Recovery Team were dispatched from Niagara Falls (NY) Air Reserve Station on October 1, 2024. The Airmen are specially trained to locate the remains of people killed in a disaster and respectfully recover them. Twenty engineer soldiers from the 204th Engineer Company with 17 items of engineering equipment, including cranes, front end loaders, skid steers, backhoes, and dump trucks, moved to South Carolina on October 3. The soldiers, who specialize in road building and repair, were slated to deploy into North Carolina.
The New York State Incident Management Team deployed 32 members, made up of skilled emergency response professionals to Asheville. As of this writing, they had helped distribute 478,000 bottles of water, 28,000 gallons of bulk water and 20,000 MREs.
On September 26, a team of 16 swift water rescue personnel, two canines and emergency response equipment deployed to North Carolina where they are assisting the Yancey County Emergency Management Office in Burnsville.
New York City deployed a 46-member Urban Search and Rescue team to North Carolina on September 25, and an 18-member swift water team
on September 27. On October 2, NYC deployed a 34 FDNYmember Incident Management Team to North Carolina, and on October 5, 13 FDNYmembers were deployed to assist with recovery efforts in Tennessee.
In addition, two public information officers from DEC have joined the North Carolina emergency operations center team in Raleigh, and three DHSES disaster recovery specialists are stationed in South Carolina. Nine DOTstaff were deployed with four 100 KWgenerators to Macon, Georgia.
The assistance was primarily deployed as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation's all-hazards national mutual aid system. EMAC has been ratified by U.S. Congress (PL104-321) and is law in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands. EMAC’s Members can share resources from all disciplines, protect personnel who deploy and be reimbursed for mission-related costs. FEMAalso deployed members of the NYS contingent. The New York State Incident Management Team deployed 32 members, made up of skilled emergency response professionals to Asheville, North Carolina. They helped distribute over 478,000 bottles of water, 28,000 gallons of bulk water and 20,000 MREs.
- Submitted by Jeff Wernick
Helping Hurricane Victims
The South Iredell VolunteerFire Department, like so many of the fire departments and agencies in the area deployed to Newland, Elk Park, Linville and Boone areas of western North Carolina to drop off supplies and assist communities in the area. The devastation was unprecedented. Landslides took out anything in theirpaths … it was surreal to see the power of mothernature. Supplies were dropped off at the Linville Fire Department, Open DoorBaptist Church and MountaineerRuritan Club by Ruritan Park. Crews also drove through neighborhoods offering assistance to anyone who needed it.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Scenes from Hurricane Helene...
The response to the impact of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina included the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Communications units and other FEMAvehicles are shown parked at the state emergency operations center in Raleigh.
On September 26, 2024, North Carolina Search and Rescue Task Force 8 departed Raleigh to western North Carolina. They drove in two convoys, starting with their heavy trucks (shown on Interstate 40 in Durham County). NCTF8 was deployed for 23 consecutive days and across three counties, assisting with rescue, recovery and support after Helene. It was the longest deployment in NCTF 8 history. The task force is comprised of members of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill fire departments and Wake County EMS.
On October 28, members of Battleboro Volunteer Fire Department in Nash County assisted Banner Elk Fire Rescue in Watagua County in the on-going aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Banner Elk also received a donated pumper-tanker from Deep River Fire Department in Lee County, after the hurricane.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
40+ Displaced by Pineville Blaze
On October15, 2024, at 1712, Pineville Fire Department and Carolina Fire Department were alerted to an apartment fire on Oakbrook Drive off Johnston Road. Initial 911 calls reported occupants trapped on the second floor. While en route, Pineville Fire Department Assistant Chief Jason Klemowicz had a smoke headervisible from Lancaster Highway nearCarolina Place Mall. Pineville Fire Department Chief Michael Gerin quickly requested a full apartment fire box response from Charlotte. Chief Gerin arrived within fourminutes to heavy fire showing from the Delta side of a two-story apartment building at the Brook Apartments. Pineville Engine 2 arrived and began a stretch to the second floor, while Charlotte Fire Ladder24-AShift began a primary search. Due to heavy fire conditions, Charlotte Fire Engine 24 hit a second hydrant and began stretching additional lines. Firefighters made an aggressive attack on the quickly advancing fire. Mecklenburg County EMS treated one resident on scene foran ankle injury, but the victim refused transport. Approximately 40 firefighters had the fire undercontrol in about 40 minutes. Ten apartment home units were heavily damaged ordestroyed, and 40-plus residents were displaced and were being assisted by the Red Cross. Firefighters cleared the scene around 2130. - Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Multi-Unit Residential Fire in Raleigh
On October11, 2024, Raleigh Engine 17 was first-arriving from theirnearby station at a multi-unit residential structure fire on Codes Ridge Road. Crews found fire in a rearcornerunit, with extension upward. The fire was attacked from both inside and outside and was controlled in about 45 minutes.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
CarFire Turned Woods Fire
Boiling Springs Lakes Fire Rescue Station 4 was alerted fora vehicle fire nearthe intersection of George II Highway and Cougar Drive. Arriving units discovered the vehicle was actually nearly a mile in the woods bordering the nature conservancy property off the east side of George II. While making access, crews found a fastmoving woods fire in one location and roughly 150 yards furthera separate fire involving a vehicle and spreading rapidly into the woods. Additional resources were quickly requested, bringing brush trucks and forestry units to the scene. All hands worked for roughly two hours to bring the fire undercontrol. Once controlled, the remaining scene was turned overto forestry to assure the fire wouldn’t reignite. The incident was mitigated with no injuries, and aside from the woods and vehicle, no serious property damage. As always, we thank ourassistance from Winnabow, Southport, Bolivia, and NC Forestry and all Station 4 members who operated at the scene and assisted with anotherrun while main units were committed to the fire. - Photo courtesy of Boiling Spring Lakes FR
Holly Springs Garage Fire
On the afternoon of October18, 2024, the Holly Springs Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in a residence on Plumbago Place. Upon arrival, Engine 2 reported fire showing from the garage of a two-story wood frame residence. Two lines were placed in operation by crews and the fire was quickly brought undercontrol. Mutual aid was provided by the Fuquay and Apex fire departments. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by Chris Creighton
Garage Fire Stopped From Spreading
On September25, 2024, at 1105, the South Iredell VolunteerFire Department, along with the Atwell, Mooresville, Shepherds and Mount Mourne fire departments, responded to a structure fire on Walden Drive. Arriving units found smoke and flames coming from an attached garage of a two-story structure. Crews quickly got wateron the fire, keeping it from spreading to the rest of the structure. Additional arriving units stretched an additional line and conducted searches of the structure, which were negative. No injuries were reported, and the cause was being investigated.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
On October7, 2024, at 1025, the Matthews Fire and EMS Department’s Stations 1 and 2, along with automatic aid from Charlotte, were dispatched to a housefire on Joines Drive in Matthews. Matthews Engine 22 arrived within three minutes and reported heavy smoke showing and upgraded the call to a working fire. Engine 22 commenced the fire attack, with Matthews Battalion 1 assuming command and Charlotte Ladder39 assigned to vertical ventilation. Crews were able to control the fire in 20 minutes. Units on the assignment included Matthews Engines 12 and 22, Battalion 1 along with Charlotte Engine 19, Ladder39 and Battalion 7.
- Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy and FullyInvolvedMedia Group
Teamwork Makes Quick Work of Matthews House Fire
Propane Leak at Queens Landing
On November18, 2024, at 1126, Mooresville Fire Rescue and Shepherds VolunteerFire Department responded to a report of a gas leak on RiverHighway at Queens Landing. Acontractordoing work on the property struck a 1000-pound propane tank that was buried causing a leak. Mooresville Hazardous Materials Unit 1 was special called to the scene. Shepherds stretched a precautionary hose line and crews were able to stop the leak, and it was determined to burn off the remaining product in the tank. HazMat techs successfully burned off the remaining product.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Raleigh & Garner at TractorFire
Raleigh and Garnerfirefighters extinguished a tractorfire in a field at the intersection of Rock Quarry and Auburn Knightdale roads on October5, 2024. Adrone captured the aftermath.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Dare County Pile Fire
Mann’s HarborFire Department along with Roanoke Island, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head fire departments, and North Carolina Forest Service and Dare County EMS, fought a large pile fire in Lake neighborhood in East Lake, Dare County.
- Submitted by Lee Goldman
Good Stop at Park Drive Blaze
On November9, 2024, at 1701, the Statesville Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire in the vicinity of Park Drive. Responding units were informed of multiple calls forthis alarm and a large column of smoke could be scene from a distance. Arriving units found a large outbuilding engulfed in fire. Anearby structure sustained damage from the siding melting, but crews quickly got the fire undercontrol in about 20 minutes. Iredell County EMS and Statesville Police Department also responded. The cause was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Fire at Charlotte Recycling Facility
On November13, 2024, at 1501, companies from the Charlotte Fire Department were dispatched fora structure fire at a recycling facility on East 28th Street. Engine 11, which cleared from a call nearby, was also added to the alarm and was on scene within three minutes. Engine 11 reported a fire in a large pile of recyclable materials at the rearof the building, and that fire was spreading to the rearexteriorwall of the building. Due to the size of the pile, Engine 11 and Ladder4 set up monitorlines as well as deploying 1-3/4 inch attack lines. At 1508, a second alarm was declared, bringing an additional ladderand three more engine companies to the scene. Crews checked the building and its roof and found that the fire had not extended into the interiorof the building. Once the fire was sufficiently contained, crews utilized heavy machinery to move and separate sections of the debris pile, so crews could extinguish hot spots. The fire was brought undercontrol at 1634. Units on the initial alarm included Battalion 1; Engines 1, 4, 18 and 8; Ladders 1 and 4; Rescue 11; and Safety 1, with Engine 11 added afterclearing from a nearby call. The second alarm added Engines 15, 6 and 2, Ladder13, Battalion 6, Car6 and fire investigators.
- Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
Mooresville Attic Fire Held
On November3, 2024, at 1758 the Lake Norman Fire Department along with Mooresville, Mount Mourne, Shepherds, Troutman, South Iredell and Sherrills Ford fireboat responded to a structure fire on Buttercup Drive at The Point. Lake Norman Engine 2 was first on the scene and reported smoke showing from the large twostory structure. Crews stretched one hoseline and aggressively attacked a large fire in the crawl space while additional crews searched the house and assisted in extinguishing the fire. Quick actions by firefighters kept the fire from extending to the structure, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. The fire was declared undercontrol at 0819.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
No Active Shooter at Raleigh HS
On October29, 2024, the Raleigh Fire Department responded to an active shooterreport at Broughton High School. Afterarriving at theirstaging location, firefighters donned tactical PPE, which is carried on each fire unit. Arriving Wake County EMS units staged at a separate nearby location. Police found no shooter, norweapon and fire and EMS units were released from the scene.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Drewry Assists Golden Belt and Cokesbury
The Drewry VolunteerFire Department responded with one truck and eight firefighters on November17, 2024, at 1625, to Warrenton Road to assist the Golden Belt and Cokesbury fire departments at a structure fire. - Photo courtesy of Drewry VFD
Pool House Fire
On November18, 2024, at 0457, Mooresville Fire Rescue and Shepherds VolunteerFire Department responded to a structure fire on Castle Drive. Responding units were updated that a pool house was on fire. Mooresville Engine 2 transmitted a working fire fora fully involved structure. Crews quickly stretched one hoseline and knocked down the fire before it could extend to a nearby structure. The fire was extinguished, and a control time of 0513 was transmitted. No injuries were reported, and the cause was under investigation. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Charlotte Apartment Fire
On October1, 2024, at 1729, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a possible apartment fire on Magnolia Tree Lane. The callerwas a passerby who reported seeing smoke coming from the top of the apartment. The callerwas not sure if anyone was home but could heara fire alarm sounding inside and could also heara dog inside the apartment. Engine 23 arrived to smoke showing from the roof and second floor. Battalion 4 assumed command and assigned Engine 65 to horizontal ventilation. Crews were able to rescue a dog from the residence. Control was called at 1741 and damage to the residence was minor. Investigators determined that the cause of the fire was a candle left burning and unattended. Units on the initial assignment included Engines 23, 42, 65 and 15; Tower3; Ladder40; Rescue 11; Battalion 4; and Safety 1. Ladder 23 was nearby on anothercall and cleared to be added to this fire, replacing Ladder40. - Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
Huntersville CarFire on Eastfield Road
On October30, 2024, at 1735, Charlotte Engine 31 and Huntersville Engine 3 were dispatched to a carfire on Eastfield Road, at the intersection of Asbury Chapel Road. Huntersville Fire Department’s Car900 arrived and reported a working car fire. Huntersville Engine 3 arrived and initiated the fire attack, with Charlotte Engine 31 arriving moments laterand assisting the Huntersville crew.
- Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
RimmerFarm Road Barn Fire
On September25, 2024, at 0244, Troutman Fire Rescue, along with Shepherds, Wayside and West Iredell fire departments, responded to a report of a structure fire on RimmerFarm Road. Troutman Engine 1 was first on scene and reported a fully involved barn. They used theirdeck gun and knocked down the fire as a tanker watersupply was being set up. Heavy thunderstorms had passed through the area and a lightning strike to the barn was a possibility. The Iredell County Fire Marshals Office was called to investigate the cause. The barn was destroyed, and the nearby home and hay bales were damaged. No injuries were reported. The fire was declared undercontrol at 0340.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterfirePhotos.com
Charlotte House Fire on Uppergate Lane
On October10, 2024, at 1330, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Uppergate Lane aftera callerreported the side of a house was on fire. Engine 23 arrived and reported fire on the outside of the house involving the electrical meter. Engine 23 assumed command and started fire attack, while Ladder 23 conducted a primary search of the residence and then checked forinteriorextension. The fire was placed undercontrol at 1344.
- Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
Charlotte House Fire on Davenport Drive
On October30, 2024, at 1519, the Charlotte Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Davenport Drive aftera neighborreported smoke coming from the basement. Charlotte Engine 13 arrived to a single-story house with smoke showing. Engine 13 initiated the fire attack in the walk-out basement while Ladder13 conducted a primary search. Tower18 handled vertical ventilation and found the fire had spread to the attic. Engine 5 took a second line into the attic. The fire was controlled in less than 20 minutes. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Units on the initial assignment included Engines 13, 5, 10 and 18, Ladder13, Rescue 10, Battalion 3 and Safety 1. Tower18, Battalion 8 and fire investigators were added on the working fire upgrade.
- Fire News photo by William GKennedy
Charlotte House Fire on Festival Way
On October11, 2024, at 1607, the Charlotte Fire Department received a report of a possible house fire near the intersection of Shadbush Road and Festival Way in East Charlotte. Engine 40 arrived and reported a fire from the garage of the residence. The crews of Engine 40 and Ladder40 were able to quickly control the fire with minimal property damage. Charlotte Fire investigators determined the fire to be accidental, originating in the garage due to discarded smoking material. No injuries were reported to eithercivilians orfirefighters. Units on the initial assignment included Engines 40, 65, 34 and 23, Ladders 40 and 23, Safety 1and Battalion 4, with automatic aid from Harrisburg Engine 32, Ladder31 and Battalion 31.
- Fire News photo by William GKennedy
Mooresville Excavator Fire
On November17, 2024, at 1413, the Mooresville and Shepherds fire departments responded to an excavatoron fire in a construction area off Charlotte Highway. Mooresville Engine 4 was first due and transmitted a working vehicle fire. Crews stretched one line to the fire. Afoam operation was put into operation and the fire was declared under control at 1426. Shepherds Engine 1 stood by with an additional watersupply if needed.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Vehicle Fire on I-77
On October13, 2024, at 1934, Troutman and Mooresville fire rescues were dispatched fora vehicle fire on southbound Interstate 77 by exit 36. Troutman Engine 1 arrived to heavy fire showing from a vehicle. Mooresville Ladder5 assisted upon theirarrival and the fire was extinguished without incident. Control time was 1949.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
South Mulberry Street Structure Fire
On October27, 2024, at 0730, the Statesville Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire on South Mulberry Street by an off-duty firefighter. Ladder1 was the first-due company and were met with heavy fire coming from the two-story structure. One occupant was transported to the hospital by Iredell County EMS with burns and smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. No otherinjuries were reported.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
CarFire, Not a Structure Fire
On October9, 2024, at 0651, the Troutman and Mooresville fire departments were alerted fora car fire at the Iredell CharterAcademy on Home Improvement Street. As units were responding the call was upgraded to a structure fire with a caron fire underthe overhang of the school. Arriving units transmitted a working carfire and cancelled the structure fire response. No injuries were reported.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Diesel Spill on Charlotte Highway
On October31, 2024, at 1445, Troutman Fire Rescue was dispatched to a truck with a fuel leak at the Pilot Truck Stop on Charlotte Highway. Engine 1 responded and found a tractor-trailerhad a punctured saddle tank and had leaked over30 gallons of diesel fuel onto the roadway and was actively leaking. Crews were able to stop the leak and applied speedy dry to dike off the spill. DOTwas notified to determine a clean-up arrangement.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Do You Believe in Magic?
On October17, 2024, at 0938, the Shepherds VolunteerFire Department responded to MVAon Magic Forest Drive. Crews found a carhad struck a house causing structural damage to the house. All involved refused EMS and no one inside the home was injured.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Vehicle into Creek in Charlotte
The Charlotte Fire Department dispatched units to an MVAwith a possible pin on Back Creek Church Road on October24, 2024, at 1617. Charlotte Engine 35 arrived and found a wreck involving a single vehicle that had left the roadway and ended up in Back Creek. Engine 35 reported that there was no pin, howeverthe vehicle was about 10 feet below the road surface which presented some access issues. Battalion Chief 2 arrived, assumed command and upgraded the call to a high angle rescue box to bring additional resources to the scene. Crews from Ladder40 set up a short haul to bring the operator, who was not seriously injured, up to the roadway to awaiting medics. The initial assignment included Charlotte Engine 35, Ladder40, Rescue 11 and Battalion Chief 2. The upgrade brought Engines 27, 34 and 11 and Safety 1 to the scene.
- Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
High Hills Drive 2-Alarmer
On October5, 2024, at 2217, the Shepherds and Mooresville fire departments, along with the North Carolina Forest Service, were dispatched fora grass and woods fire on High Hills Drive. Responding units received additional information of a porch fire at the location with an automatic alarm being received. Lake Norman, Troutman and Mount Mourne fire departments were added to the alarm. Shepherds Engine 3 arrived to a large 2-1/2 story structure and requested a second alarm adding South Iredell, Davidson, Sherrills
set up a masterstream and all operations were exterior. Multiple handlines were put into operation and Mount Mourne Tanker1 brought in a watersupply from a hydrant on River Highway. The fire was darkened down and crews entered the structure and made an interiorattack. Command was terminated at 0520. Iredell County EMS set up a rehab area.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Ford, Troutman and Sherrils Ford’s fire boat to the scene. Mooresville Ladder5
On October30, 2024, at 0548, the Shepherds, Troutman, Mooresville and Wayside fire departments and Iredell County EMS responded to a structure fire on Shepherds Road with a smoke inhalation victim. Arriving units had smoke showing and the victim on the front lawn with theirdog. Crews tended to the victim and searched forthe source of the smoke condition and removed the dog who ran back into the smoke-filled structure. Afan was set up to remove the smoke and it was determined to be a furnace issue. Iredell County EMS treated the occupant forsmoke inhalation and crews secured the furnace.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Furnace Issue at Shepherds Road Smoke Call
Trash Truck T-Bone Extrication in Charlotte
On October9, 2024, at 2249, Charlotte Fire Department Station 1 responded to an MVAwith reported pin at Charlottetowne Avenue and Kenilworth Avenue. Ladder1 and Battalion Chief Michael Gerin arrived and encountered a trash truck that t-boned an SUV with heavy intrusion on the driverside of the SUV. Ladder1 worked with Engine 1 and Rescue 10 utilizing Hurst eDRAULIC tools to extricate the pinned driver. Firefighters freed the driverin approximately 10 minutes. Firefighters also handled a spill afterthe passengerside saddle tank of the garbage truck ruptured. Mecklenburg EMS transported the driverand a front seat passengerto the Level 1 Trauma Centerat Atrium CMC with serious injuries. - Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Nose Gear
Collapse on Take-off
Raleigh-Durham International Airport
CFR units escorted a light plane that suffered a nose gearcollapse while takingoff on September8, 2024. Afterthe gear was repaired, it was escorted by units back to a hangar.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Pedestrian Struck at zMax Dragway
On October31, 2024, at 1035, the Charlotte MotorSpeedway EMS, Security and the Concord Fire Department responded to a pedestrian struck at the four-lane zMax Dragway. Crews stabilized the patient and he was transported to a nearby hospital.
- Fire News photo by Immsterfirephotos.com
Drewry Handles I-85 MVA
The Drewry VolunteerFire Department responded to an MVA involving three vehicles on northbound Interstate 85 at the 221 milemarkeron November9, 2024 at 2250, with one pumperstaffed by seven.
- Photo courtesy of Drewry VFD
Very Early MVAon I-85
The Drewry VolunteerFire Department responded to southbound Interstate 85 at the 227 milemarkeron November19, 2024, at 0200 with two trucks staffed by six personnel to assist Norlina and Hawtree fire departments with a tractor-trailerfire and wreck.
- Photo courtesy of Drewry VFD
~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Firehouse Labs Test Ram AirFire GearDrying Technology
Firehouse Labs conducted a third-party, independent field test of the Ram Air fire gear drying technology. The company is firefighter-owned and boasts a wide range of products engineered to help dry personal protective equipment (PPE). While several options were available, it was decided to test their mid-range model, the TG-6H, which is designed to hold up to 12 pieces of gear, six helmets, and 18 accessories. The company stands by their marketing phrase, “Dry Gear Fast” which our independent analysis supported.
The Review
Over the period of two days, Firehouse Labs thoroughly tested and documented the performance of the Ram Air TG-6H. Accounting for variables to include ambient air temperature and humidity; the testing was conducted under field-level conditions. The gear selected for the testing was purposefully picked to provide a representation of the various manufacturers, designs, materials, and features. As a control, two sets of nearly identical gear (only slightly varied in size) were in the test group with one being subjected to a hang-dry option to identify the ambient air-drying capability. At no time during the test did the evaluator register a temperature over the maximum 105 degrees Fahrenheit established by NFPA1851: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural
Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting.
The simplified explanation of the test is that it relies on measuring the starting weight, wet weight, and then weight of the gear after it has been on the gear dryer for one hour. Even if the gear felt dry, it was not considered dry until it was back to the starting weight.
The Results
Testing revealed that 90% of the time, the gear was dry within one hour. Outliers to the one-hour result were gear that had thick leather knee pads, integrated belts, large solid areas of reflective material, or inner pocket liners that used moisture barrier material, essentially trapping moisture between two non-permeable surfaces.
In all but one test, the gear that was not back to its starting weight felt dry to touch especially in areas that are prone to holding water like the underarm or groin areas of the gear. This is an impressive result considering that the average amount of water in the wet gear was nearly half a liter.
The inner liner of the gear held more water than the outer shells. However, the various pockets, patches, built-in padding in the elbows and knees, and folds in the fabric of the outer shells proved to be the last areas to dry. Areas like the neck shroud could expedite drying with minor adjustments throughout the drying process; however, these
adjustments were minimal and did not disrupt the drying process.
When questioned about variables that could affect drying time, Ram Air representatives mentioned ambient air temperatures, humidity levels, and many of the gear manufacturing variables that were discovered during testing. Overall, the results were consistent and proved that the gear dryer would “Dry Gear Fast.”
The Product
The Ram Air product line was designed to maximize airflow to each piece of gear on the system. Opening accessory drying ports did not reduce the airflow to other areas and it was noted that there was more than enough air flow to fully inflate any gloves that were placed on the dryer. The controls were easy to understand and built-in safeguards prevented user errors that may damage fire gear. The science behind the volume and consistency of the airflow is impressive but it was also built with firefighters in mind. Sized to fit through a standard doorway, every unit comes with casters to ensure it can be moved around easily and does not require an expensive installation.
Backed by a five-year warranty, this product has proven it can walk the walk, proudly earning the Firehouse Labs Seal of Approval. www.ramair geardryer.com.
~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Enhancing FirefighterSafety: LION’s Commitment to Reducing Exposure Risks
The fire service is making strides in its effort to reduce the number of firefighters who are diagnosed with firefighter-related cancers as more information becomes available. As cancer continues to be a threat facing the fire service, LION has been a leader in providing products and services to help reduce exposure and educate departments on NFPA standards to reduce exposure and stay NFPAcompliant.
LION offers digital training equipment and cleaner burning fire training solutions to reduce exposure to harmful toxins contained in products of combustion during training scenarios. To reduce second-hand contact with PPE after exposure during a call, LION offers TotalCare™ cleaning services, including LION REDZONE™ CO2 cleaning options, to extract smoke deposits and other residue that can become trapped in fibers of PPE gear until properly cleaned.
REDZONE™ particulate-blocking hood that offers an exceptional level of fit, mobility and comfort with added protection.
“LION offers digital training equipment and cleaner burning fire training solutions to reduce exposure to harmful toxins contained in products of combustion during training scenarios.”
Lastly, LION offers firefighting protective gear to reduce the possibility of smoke particulates reaching the body when responding to calls. Working with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and the North Carolina State University Textile Protection and Comfort Center (TPACC), LION developed the REDZONE™ Contaminant Control Package, consisting of a structural turnout with enhanced protection from hazardous particulates contained in smoke and soot that may infiltrate the ensemble interfaces, and the
RedZone substantially reduces particulate ingress at key PPE interface areas as confirmed by the fluorescent aerosol screen test (FAST), performs consistently with existing turnout standards, and requires little to no change in donning/ doffing procedures. The ensemble protects the areas around the wrists, upper calves, chest, stomach, and neck where gaps in traditional PPE interfaces allow infiltration of particulates into the existing ensemble. It does so in a way that is easy for the firefighter, meaning the parts and pieces don’t require additional steps to engage the features. To accomplish this, the coat and pants utilize Dupont’s Nomex Nano particulate-blocking material at the wrists and calves, and in an internal core guard that helps block particulates from entering the waist area. Nomex Nano resists greater than 95% of particulates less than 1.0 microns in size. What LION, DHS, and NC State learned through the development process is how the material is strategically placed to interface with other PPE elements like the gloves, boots, hood, coat, and pants themselves, which results in the true benefit.
Contact your local LION distribution partner such as NAFECO to learn about REDZONE products available exclusively from LION. www.nafeco.com.
Research That Supports the Link Between Firefighting and Cancer
Research spanning decades, continents, and more than 80,000 firefighters validates the connection between firefighting and occupational cancer. Here are some key studies.
The 2017 Blais University of Ottawa study examined chemical exposure occurring during emergency, on-shift fire suppression. The researchers found firefighters absorb harmful chemicals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), through their skin. Firefighters had from three to more than five times the amount of by-products of PAHs in their urine after a fire compared to before the fire.
The 2013 Daniels NIOSH study (phase 1) is the largest study of U.S. firefighters to date. It examined mortality patterns and cancer incidence for 30,000 firefighters. The NIOSH study, which began in 2010, found statistically significant mortality and incidence rates of all cancers and cancers of the esophagus, intestine, lung, kidney, and oral cavity, as well as increased mesothelioma for firefighters compared with the general population. The NIOSH study found excess risk of bladder and prostate cancers at younger ages. The NIOSH study also is significant because it spanned geographical distance
(San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia) and decades (1950-2009). It is one of the few studies to date that has included women and nonwhite firefighters.
The 2015 Daniels NIOSH study (phase 2) examined firefighters’work histories and variables such as fire runs, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and use of diesel exhaust control systems. It compared the cancer risk for firefighters with higher exposures to carcinogens with those who had lower exposures. In this phase, researchers found that lung cancer and leukemia risk increased with exposure.
The 2014 Pukkala Nordic study of 16,422 firefighters from five Nordic countries found an increased risk for all cancers combined among firefighters, similar to the NIOSH phase 1 study. It found significant increases in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer; lung cancer; and prostate cancer from 1961 to 2005.
The 2008 Kang Massachusetts study compared cancer incidence among Massachusetts firefighters with that of Massachusetts police officers and other occupations. When compared with police officers, firefighters were found to have increased cancer risks. This study found
the firefighters had a 90 percent higher risk for brain cancer and an 81 percent higher risk for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Researchers examined data from 1987-2003.
The 2006 LeMasters meta-analysis reviewed data from 32 studies of firefighters for 20 different types of cancer. Risks for 10 types of cancer were “significantly increased” in firefighters. Risks for the other 10 types were increased, though not to the same extent.
The 2006 Fangchao Ma Florida study compared Florida firefighters’cancer incidence rates (rather than mortality) with those of the general Florida population. It was the first such study to include women. Florida researchers examined data for 34,796 male and 2,017 female firefighters and found 1,032 total cases of cancer (970 male & 52 female). The top cancers for male firefighters were prostate (13.7 percent), skin (8.4 percent), colon (7.1 percent), bladder (6.9 percent), and testicular (5.5 percent). The most prominent cancers for female firefighters in Florida were breast (27.8 percent) skin (7.6 percent), thyroid (5.6 percent) and lung (4.6 percent).
- IAFFand FCSN
~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Ten-yearSurvivors Celebrate at Carolina BioOncology Institute
More than 15 years ago, John Powderly, MD, opened Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI) in Huntersville, NC, with a passion to serve the local cancer community. CBOI is an independent communitybased cancer research clinic that serves the Southeast region as a referral hub for metastatic cancer patients’access to Phase 1 clinical research trials. CBOI’s complete focus on Phase 1 clinical trials offers cancer patients a last hope, or a swing at the bat so to speak, with a chance at hitting a home run. The majority of patients who come to CBOI are late-
stage and/or have metastatic disease and have already tried all standardof-care options.
Recently, three patients of Dr. Powderly’s celebrated survival and complete remission lasting more than 10 years. Pictured above from from left to right are Douglas Hurley (Chapel Hill, NC), Penny Singleton (Matthews, NC) and Stephanie McConnell (Mt Ulla, NC). These three cancer patients, with three different cancers (melanoma,
lung adenocarcinoma, triple negative breast cancer) were among the first patients to go on three different Phase 1 clinical trials in 2012-2014 using first generation immune checkpoint drugs
“It’s your body, so you need to understand what’s happening to you and what you’re fighting against. Advocate for yourself. I can’t say it enough: I would flat-out not be here if I had not been this aggressive.” voices Ms. Stephanie McConnel. “I used to say that I’d never do a clinical trial, that I’m nobody’s guinea pig,” Stephanie said. “But when a doctor tells you to go home and die? I have a child. That was not going to be his story.” Recently, she and her son cruised the Mediterranean. “We’re doing all the things I talked about when I said, ‘If I live, this is the life we’re going to have,’” Stephanie says.
The three survivors failed prior standard of care and were faced with options of going into hospice or trying to get accepted into a Phase 1 clinical research trial. They chose the trial and benefited remarkably, starting with an initial positive radiographic response and then progressing into a complete remission that has remained durable over the past decade, without any remaining detectable cancer.
Immune checkpoint drugs have revolutionized the treatment of cancer since they were first approved for melanoma in 2011. Over a dozen immune checkpoint drugs (targeting CTLA-4, PD-1, PDL-1, LAG-3) have been FDAapproved over the past decade. Dr. Powderly has performed the early phase clinical trials for most of these drugs. Currently, CBOI has more than 30 early phase clinical trials focused on immunotherapy that are available to metastatic cancer patients.
CBOI has performed 170 early phase clinical research trials since 2005, which has contributed to the FDA’s commercial approval of 12 immunotherapy drugs. CBOI’s leadership team is recognized globally for excellence in clinical research operations and has contributed to 240 publications of clinical trials that are referenced in the scientific literature by 35,000 citations. For more information call 704-947-6599 or visit www.carolinabiooncology.org.
Chemical Exposure in Firefighting: ACall to Action on CancerRisks ~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Each day, firefighters put their lives at risk to keep their communities safe. They dedicate themselves to mitigating danger, but an unseen and long-term enemy threatens their health and well-being: toxic exposure. Beyond the flames and fumes, firefighters face dangerous and life-altering PFAS/PFOS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) hidden in their gear, the fire suppressants they use, and within the smokey aftermath of extinguished flames.
These toxic compounds found in traditional firefighting foams have been linked to cancer and reproductive harm such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloma, melanoma, testicular cancer, and prostate cancers. Recent studies confirm these toxic compounds exist in not only fire suppression foams but also within their gear and protective clothing, where they are in contact with and absorbed through the skin barrier.
Recognizing this, Five Star Firefighting Solutions sources and offers a variety of truly 100% non-toxic essentials like turnout gear, gloves, fire suppression foams, and lithium-ion fire extinguishers to protect your crew’s health by reducing unnecessary exposure risks. We live by the
chemistry; ensuring every product meets strict, non-toxic standards without compromising an ounce of performance.
Five Star Firefighting Solutions is dedicated to eradicating these toxic hazards with certified, effective, and 100% non-toxic solutions to ensure firefighters can focus on saving lives — without sacrificing their own.
www.fivestarfirefightingsolutions.com
FCSN Training Modules ~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Exposure to Exhaust Fumes, a Growing Concern to the Fire Service
As we recognize National Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month this January, it is essential to focus on the significant risks firefighters face daily. Occupational cancer is a growing concern in the fire service, with vehicle exhaust fumes being a leading contributor. Prolonged exposure to these harmful toxins can significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancer.
At Air Cleaning Specialists, Inc., we have proudly served fire stations across North and South Carolina for over 40 years, providing topof-the-line vehicle exhaust removal and toxic gas monitoring systems. These systems are crucial in reducing firefighters’exposure to carcinogenic diesel fumes, helping protect their health and safety.
As we honor those who protect our communities, it’s vital to invest in technology that safeguards their well-being. Join us in supporting National Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month and ensuring our brave firefighters can return home healthy after every call.
Aircleaningspecialistsinc.com | 919-255-9344.
How to Get Started:
The content on the website is designed to engage our nation’s firefighters and their fire departments in a mass effort to prevent and reduce their risk of occupational cancer. Our curriculum contains information and tools that educate firefighters and raise awareness about why cancer cases are on the rise in the fire service and how to limit their day-to-day exposures to carcinogens.
To access Training Modules go to: www.firefightercancersupport.org
Education Presentations:
There are Five Education Presentation Training Modules in this program; one for each topic to use for a safety stand down. The education presentations will assist in identifying the cancer problem and the steps to take to reduce exposures. The Training Modules are a good discussion tool for firefighters to help educate themselves on reducing the risk of occupational cancer. The five training modules are:
Fire Station Best Practices
Fireground Best Practices
Modifiable Risk Factors
FCSN Survivorship
Occupational CancerProblem in the Fire Service
When using these modules, it is recommended to do so in presenter mode in PowerPoint to capture the instructor notes for the slides.
For more information: www.firefightercancersupport.org.
~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Duke Energy’s Rapid Response to Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene was one of the most impactful storms in the company’s history and required an unprecedented response to ensure swift power restoration for over 1.4 million impacted Duke Energy customers in North Carolina.
Some of our Duke Energy teammates lost their homes and yet they were out in the field, fighting to bring their churches, schools, hospitals and local businesses back online.
Close coordination with state, local and federal agencies helped our crews get access to highimpact areas faster than anticipated, accelerating restoration timelines for our customers.
In the Carolinas alone, our crews replaced 15,000 transformers, 14,000 poles and 12 million feet of cable – grueling restoration work that required ingenuity. Teams used drones to assessdamage. They flew helicopters to help set power poles. Two lineworkers hiked throughmountainous, muddy terrain to help reconnect portions of the grid and restore power to
Asheville’s VAMedical Center, while other teammates brought in a 200,000-pound mobile substation along the Swannanoa River. www.duke-energy.com
What Firefighters Need to Know About the NFR
Any FirefighterCan Join the NFR
The NFR (National Firefighters Registry for cancer) is open to all U.S. firefighters, not just those with a previous diagnosis of cancer. Having many types of firefighters join the NFR is crucial to examining relationships between firefighter activities and cancer. NIOSH encourages all firefighters to participate in the NFR, including:
Active, former, and retired firefighters; Career, paid-on-call, and volunteer firefighters; Structural firefighters; Wildland firefighters; Industrial firefighters; Military firefighters; Instructors; Fire investigators; and Other fire service members
Registration is Open
Firefighters can join the NFR through the secure web portal. Participation is voluntary. Registration will take about 30 minutes. The NFR is a long-term project that will include voluntary, but important, follow-up questionnaires. Continued participation in the NFR is key to protecting firefighter health. The more researchers know about cancer in the fire service, the more we can do to prevent it.
How it Works
Learn how the NFR will help researchers investigate the link between firefighting and cancer; https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/firefighters/registry.html.
Personal Information Will Be Kept Confidential
Privacy and data security are top priorities for the NFR. Identifying information (like name and date of birth) are protected by an Assurance of Confidentiality. Data are protected by numerous safeguards that meet strict Federal guidelines. For more information, watch our video. – IAFF& FCSN
~ CANCERINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~
Reduce CancerRisk Off the Job
The risk factors most linked to increased cancer rates include numerous modifiable factors. Knowing and making small changes can reduce cancer risks significantly. For example, quitting tobacco before the age of 40 reduces the risk of dying from smoking-related diseases by 90 percent.
ALCOHOL
It is well studied that consuming alcohol can increase the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx, liver, and breast. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies alcohol as a group 1 carcinogen. The risk is increased by the amount you consume.
Data collected over the last decade demonstrate that the fire service has a high rate of heavy and binge drinking. The amount of alcohol consumed over time is the most important factor in raising cancer risk. Alcohol metabolizes into acetaldehyde, which most researchers say is the leading cause for the increase in risk.?
What Can You Do?
Drink in moderation: According to the American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention, it is best not to drink alcohol. People who choose to drink alcohol should limit their intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink a day for women.
Firefighters have lower rates of cigarette smoking than the general population; however, cigars and smokeless tobacco are used at a higher rate. Tobacco use can cause several cancers, including cancer
of the lung, larynx, mouth, esophagus, throat, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, pancreas, colon and rectum, cervix, and acute myeloid leukemia. Smokeless tobacco is linked to increased risks of mouth, esophagus, and pancreas.
TOBACCO
What Can You Do?
Quit using tobacco products. There is no safe level of tobacco use. Quitting smoking today will immediately reduce the risk for cancers associated with tobacco use and have substantial gains in life expectancy compared with those who continue to smoke. Also, quitting smoking at the time of a cancer diagnosis reduces the risk of death.
Sun exposure is a risk that we have control over reducing. The sun, sunlamps, and tanning booths are all sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that damages the skin. Excessive UVexposure is directly linked to skin cancer. The risk for melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is increased with exposure to UVradiation from all sources.
SUNLIGHT
What
Can You Do?
Limit the amount of time spent in the sun and protect your skin by using sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF). Reduce your time in the sun, especially between mid-morning and late afternoon, and avoid other sources of UVradiation, such as tanning beds. Keep in mind that UVradiation is reflected by sand, water, snow and ice and can go through windshields and windows. - FCSN
Up Close & Personal
Firefighters from Charlotte Engine 19 aftera recent structure fire.
- Fire News photo by William GKennedy
Chief Fire
InvestigatorJim Pearce examines the scene of a multi-unit residential structure fire in Raleigh on Codes Ridge Road on October11, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Charlotte Fire Department Engine 39-C Shift FirefighterKenny Schott II aftera recent natural gas leak call in Station 39’s area.
- Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMedia Group.com
Charlotte Fire Department A-Shift Safety OfficerWill Kellerat a house fire in North Charlotte on September11, 2024.
- Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaG roup.com
Harmony Fire Department and North Iredell Rescue at a recent tractor pull standby.
- Fire News photo by Immsterfirephotos. com
Mecklenburg County Chief Fire Marshal
Ted Panagiotopoulos on the scene of an apartment fire in Pineville on October 15, 2024.
- Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMedia Group.com
It’s a Family Affair Stony Point Fire Department’s Abernathy’s family tradition (left to right) Jacob, Assistant Chief with 12 years of service; Billy, a Captain with 56 years of service; Scotty, Chief of Department with 38 years of service; and James a Firefighterwith 16 years of service; totaling over122 years of service to the community by one family.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Concord Fire Fighters set up at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos. com
Neighbors Helping Neighbors - Civic Federal Credit Unions: Helping First Responders,
Health Care Workers and More
As a credit union that believes in neighbors helping neighbors, we are moved to support our local government communities in western North Carolina following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Our hearts are with those affected by this disaster, and like you, we are committed to helping them rebuild.
The Civic Local Foundation, the foundation for Local Government and Civic Federal Credit Unions, designated its first quarter 2025 grant funds of $75,000 to relief efforts, with an additional $50,000 in donations from credit union employees, partners and vendors collected to date through the Foundation’s disaster relief fundraising efforts, in partnership with the NC Association of Regional Councils of Governments (NCARCOG).
“As a local government credit union, we are proud to be the trusted source for ongoing, secure donations to help first responders, health care workers and more, move forward from this disaster,” said Ruth Barnes, chair of Civic Local Foundation and board director for Civic Credit Union.
Grants of $2,500 are being distributed to local government
employees through NCARCOG. Nearly 400 grant applications have been received to date from local government employees who have lost their primary homes or personal vehicles from Hurricane Helene flooding. Due to the need, the Foundation and the NCARCOG are now issuing a call for additional support from donors across North Carolina.
We want to thank all of you who have donated and supported in rebuilding our communities – our work is not done. We know that we’re stronger together, and rebuilding our communities requires time, resiliency and community effort.
We ask that you join us, as neighbors helping neighbors. Donate to Hurricane Helene relief efforts, hear from NCARCOG Chairman Justin Hembree and learn more about Civic Local Foundation.
RapidSOS Aquires eDispatches
Move Aims to Provide the Critical Situational Awareness Needed in an Emergency.
RapidSOS, the intelligent safety company, announced the acquisition of eDispatches, an industry leader in providing communication services to emergency responders. This strategic move aims to provide the critical situational awareness needed in an emergency by leveraging RapidSOS’intelligent safety platform and eDispatches’communications technology to field responders in an emergency.The acquisition of eDispatches joins RapidSOS’2022 purchase of IamResponding.
For the past decade, thousands of public safety agencies have shaped RapidSOS’technology roadmap.
eDispatches addresses limitations in traditional two-tone paging systems often used by emergency responders, which can be hindered by range or topography.
The collaboration between RapidSOS and eDispatches marks a significant milestone in the evolution of first-response technology. eDispatches has been dedicated to providing value-driven, secondary notification services to the emergency responder community. By joining forces, RapidSOS and eDispatches are poised to deliver next-generation communication solutions that can improve emergency response times and outcomes on a broader scale, benefiting more communities and individuals in need.
“One of the critical benefits of this acquisition is the expansion of intelligent safety data to field responders. By providing additional context in an emergency, first responders will have the information they need to facilitate more efficient and effective responses,” said Michael Martin, CEO and co-founder of RapidSOS.
Eric Valliere Confirmed as FDSOAChairfor a New 3-YearTerm
Eric Valliere, the current Chair of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA), has been reappointed to a new three-year term beginning in January 2025. Valliere expressed his enthusiasm for maintaining his leadership role and looks forward to advancing FDSOAinitiatives with the support of the dedicated Board of Directors team and new management team. His reappointment reflects FDSOA’s confidence in his vision and commitment to strengthening safety standards within the fire service industry.
Join us at the 2025 FDSOA Health Safety & Apparatus Conference this January 2025 in St Pete Beach FL(Go to FDSOA.org for more information)
Matthews Recruit Graduation & Promotion Ceremony
On the evening of October 7, 2024, Matthews Fire and EMS held a promotion and graduation ceremony at the Matthews Playhouse. During the ceremony, three battalion chiefs were appointed into newly created positions. Battalion Chief Peter Blaich, and Greg Hildreth were outside new promotions to Matthews Fire and EMS, while Captain Ryan Hanes was internally promoted to Battalion Chief. All three new battalion chiefs were all pinned by Deputy Chief Kent Davis.
Captain promotions also took place for 10 members, as well as the graduation of 14 new firefighter recruits. All these promotions and new recruit hires are signs of expansion, continued growth, and years of planning, dedication and hard work that will only further benefit the residents and visitors in the Town of Matthews.
These 14 recruits spent months training and studying, putting in long hours and dedication in conjunction with Rowan-Cabarrus Community College to get to this monumental moment in their careers.
- Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Western Wake FR Covers State Fair
The North Carolina State Fairwas held in Raleigh from October17 to October24, 2024. Western Wake Fire Rescue again provided on-site fire, rescue, and first responderservices each day, with an engine, brush truck, and two UTVs. Also during the fair, the North Carolina Forest Service displayed several pieces of current and vintage fire equipment as part of their exhibits.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
The Outer Banks 9/11 Memorial Walk
Local first responders from multiple county and town agencies attended the OuterBanks 9/11 Memorial Walk, along with many residents of Dare County. The walk started at the new Dare County EMS Station 1/Kill Devil Hills Firehouse Station 14 and went to the top of the Wright Brothers monument and back. The walk is a 5K and many firefighters did the walk in full turnout gear. This is the third yearof the event which and has grown to 200 participants.
- Submitted by Lee Goldman
Cool Springs Truck-or-Treat
On the evening of October26,
the
scare-free kids’zone was added and was a big hit forthe smaller children who might be afraid to go into the scare zone. The volunteers spent theirSaturday preparing and decorating the inside of the fire station foranothersuccessful event.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
2024,
Cool Springs VolunteerFire Department held its annual Truck-or-Treat event, which is always a community favorite. Over850 members of the community came out in costume to enjoy the spooky fire house and get some of the 500 pounds of candy that was given out to the children. This yeara
Remembering 9/11
On the morning of September8, 2024, the Dragon Slayers Motorcycle Club of Wake County held a 9/11 memorial ride. They started at Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson on South Saunders Street and proceeded to the North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Memorial at Nash Square in downtown Raleigh, and across the street from
Fire Station 1. Ashort memorial service was held that included placing a wreath at the memorial and saying a prayer. The riders then rode 25 miles east to the Wake County chapter’s clubhouse for food and fellowship.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
National Fallen FFs 9/11 StairClimb in Charlotte
Every year, participants take part in an annual 9/11 stairclimb. The Charlotte Memorial StairClimb has taken place since September2012, and pays tribute to fallen heroes who were lost on September11, 2001. On September7, 2024, civilians, firefighters, EMTs and others took part in the 12th annual National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Charlotte 9/11 StairClimb. Climbers simulated climbing the equivalent of 110 stories of the World Trade Centerin NYC at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Participants walked 3 laps up and down the Jerry Richardson Stadium some in full firefighterPPE, while proudly carrying the picture of a fallen hero who was killed on 9/11. First responders from across the country attend the Charlotte climb every year, including Flint Hill Fire Department Chaplain Michael Davis and his wife Janet. Janet Davis has participated in the Charlotte 9/11 StairClimb for12 years and plans to participate as long as it is held. Fully Involved Media Group was grateful to sponsorFloor11 forthe 2024 Climb.
- Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com.
New Station for Knightdale FD
Concord Fire Department
On October11, 2024, the Knightdale Fire Department in Wake County opened theirnew Fire Station 1. The 16,128-square-foot, $7.2 million facility is located at 7747 Forestville Road. It houses Engine 31 and Battalion 1, along with heavy rescue and a tanker. It also houses Wake County EMS. The fire and EMS units were relocated from the town’s Public Safety Centeron Steeple Square Court.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
Garner’s Firemen’s Festival
The GarnerFire Department in Wake County held theirannual firemen’s festival on October5, 2024. The Main Street parade featured both Garnerrigs and visiting apparatus.
