VIRGINIA Serving Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1973
VOLUME 1, NO. 6
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021
- Fire News photo submitted by Abbey Stumpf Story on page 31.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS from your friends at
Fire News
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 3
In this issue... Farmville Porch Fire Extends Farmville Dispatch received a call of a porch on fire and extending to a house in the Hampden-Sydney area.
A Service for Virginia Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
See story on page 6
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
1 Displaced by Norfolk Fire Recently, companies from Norfolk Fire and Rescue responded to a structure fire in Berkley. See story on page 10
House Fire in Woodstock Fire crews responded to a well involved single-family home on September 20, 2020. See story on page 14
Tech Rescue in Fairfax County Fairfax County Fire Rescue crews responded to a dump truck that rolled down an embankment.
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY: Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ: Editorial Assistant Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES COPYRIGHT 2021, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 1 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 280 Fax number: (631) 776-1854 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: tim@firenews.com
See story on page 17
MC Down in Shenandoah Ruckersville Fire units were dispatched to Shenandoah National Park for reports of two motorcyclists down.
Nine Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
See story on page 20 Proud Member Of:
Crater Regional HazMat Team Trains Recently, the Crater Regional Hazardous Materials team were finally able to do some in-person training. See story on page 28
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . pages 23-25 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 26 & 28
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, NY 11713.
Help Wanted PT/FT Advertising Sales Rep • Great Commission • Flexible Hours/Days
Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34
For more info contact: Tim Edwards tim@firenews.com
Page 4, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
We Made It! As I gave thought to this editorial, I realized that it is for the December Fire News. Wow, December; can you imagine that 2020 is about to end? Covid-19 has certainly made our lives as first responders difficult. Despite having to change the way we exist at the firehouse, we’ve had to rethink how we handled routine events and calls, while major calls also challenged our chiefs. The fire was never the problem. The problem was reminding members that distancing themselves from one another before, during and after the call was a new requirement. I can’t tell you how many times I walked up to the fireground and forgot my face mask. Thanks to our EMS responders who always politely reminded me to wear my mask as they handed me a new one so I could be protected from Covid-19. As 2020 continued and the number of Covid cases dropped, many of us started to let our guard down. Occasionally, we found out the hard way that this horrible disease is still alive and threatens us. I know of several incidents where members received calls from their chiefs notifying them they were
exposed. It may have happened when a member was exposed to the disease at another location and now responded on a call without wearing a facemask. The result of this mistake ended up with members having to be tested and/or quarantined. Please, remember to wear a face mask when you are in close proximity to people all of the time! In many departments, 2021 elections have been held. If your company has new officers, please give them the support that they need to continue keeping you safe. It is also a good time for new officers to sit down with senior members and officers ending their term to discuss the things that can or cannot be done to keep your company running smoothly. Speaking from experience, I always appreciated the advice I received from experienced members. I always learned something important when I took the time to sit with them over coffee and asked for input. I always love to share my favorite drills which challenged members and I love to share the problems I had as a new officer. To the new officers, take the time to share ideas with the people who
probably made the same mistakes you could make on your very first day in office. In closing, I would like to wish everyone a blessed and happy holiday. Remember the people of your community who are less fortunate. Most likely you are not going to be opening your firehouse to your community as a result of Covid-19 prevention. Even though your doors for socialization will probably be closed, you can still let the community know you are there for them. A simple wave of the hand lets everyone know that they are in your thoughts and prayers during this holiday season. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all! -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Farmville Porch Fire Extends At 0815 on November 7, 2020, Farmville Dispatch received a call of a porch on fire and extending to the house on Lakeside Road in the Hampden-Sydney area. The following departments were dispatched: Hampden-Sydney, Farmville, Darlington Heights and Merherrin. Upon arrival, lines were setup on the C/D side and the A side. Hampden-Sydney knocked down the fire on the C/D side and vented the C side. The attack line on the A side entered the building to extinguish the fire in the interior. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
Firefighters Extinguish Shed Fire On November 20, 2020, Suffolk Fire and Rescue crews responded to a fire involving a detached shed at a residence in the 100 block of Birch Lane. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and flames showing from the detached shed, which was quickly extinguished. The nearby residence had heat damage to the siding. An adult female neighbor sustained minor injuries when she attempted to provide assistance after alerting the residents to the fire. She received emergency medical assessment and treatment and then responded to a local medical facility for further treatment. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Hanover Responds to Apartment Fire
Recently, Hanover Fire-EMS crews battled a two-alarm fire at the Brandy Hill Apartments in Mechanicsville. Thankfully fire and smoke alarms alerted many occupants of the danger. First arriving crews were able to assist many residents to safety. Fourteen apart-
ments were damaged in the incident. The Hanover County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause of the fire. The American Red Cross assisted with temporary housing and recovery. - Photos courtesy of Hanover County Fire & EMS
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 9
Bonsack Area Structure Fire
Roanoke County Fire and Rescue responded at about 2246 on November 6, 2020, to the 2200 block of Coachman Drive in the Bonsack area, for a residential structure fire. First-arriving crews found heavy fire and smoke showing from the rear and garage area of a two-story wood frame. The fire was brought under control in
about 30 minutes. The home was occupied by three adults who evacuated safely but were displaced. Units from the City of Roanoke Fire and EMS and Botetourt County Fire and EMS assisted with the call. The Roanoke County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. - Submitted by Brian Clingenpeel
Page 10, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Norfolk Garage Fire
Norfolk Fire and Rescue companies from the 1st and 3rd Battalions involved detached garage. Crews worked quickly to ensure the fire were dispatched to an early morning structure fire on Hollister was confined to the garage only, and no injuries were sustained, nor Avenue. Flooded streets created several challenges for crews to gain was anyone displaced because of the incident. access to the building. When Engine 2 arrived, they found a fully- Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire &Rescue
1 Displaced by Norfolk Fire
Recently, companies from Norfolk Fire and Rescue responded to a structure fire in Berkley. Engines 1, 2, 6, 7, 8 and 10; Ladders 8 and 10; R01; M09; Chesapeake E01, BC01 and BC02 were met with
heavy smoke and fire and made an aggressive interior attack. There were no injuries, and one citizen was displaced. - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire &Rescue
Residential Structure Fire Displaces 6 Suffolk Fire and Rescue units responded, to a residential structure fire in the 400 block of Culloden Street in the Tynes Park neighborhood on November 19, 2020. Chief Michael Barakey advised that first-arriving fire units found heavy smoke and visible fire showing from the two-story frame structure housing three apartment units. Six adults were displaced and were assisted by the Red Cross. There were no injuries - Submitted by Diana Klink
Page 12, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Pickup Fire on I-81 On October 10, 2020, the Toms Brook Fire Department and Woodstock Fire Department battled a vehicle fire on Interstate 81 at the 288 milemarker. A pickup was completely destroyed. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Firefighters Respond to Residential Structure Fire
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded for a residential structure fire in the 5500 block of Whaleyville Boulevard on September 27, 2020. First units arrived in rural Whaleyville Borough at 1749. Battalion Chief Chuck Knight advised that firefighters found moderate smoke showing from the single-story residence on arrival. No occupants were home at the time. The fire was contained to one room, however, there was smoke damage throughout the home. Responding units included Engines 1, 2 and 8; Tankers 1, 7 and 8; Rescue 1; Medic 8; Safety 1; Battalion 1; and EMS-1. The Fire Marshal’s Office wwas investigating the cause. The Whaleyville Volunteer Fire Department provided assistance with an extra tanker. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Centreville Townhouse Fire Stopped On September 29, 2020, Fairfax County firefighters responded to a townhouse fire in the 14600 block of Stone Crossing Court in Centreville. Occupants were not home at the time of the blaze. A neighbor called 911. Crews found the fire in basement, and it was quickly extinguished without incident. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. The cause of the blaze was under investigation. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County Fire-Rescue
Prince Edward Structure Fire Recently, fire departments from Hampden-Sydney, Farmville, Prospect and Darling Heights were dispatched for a building fire in back of a house in the 5800 Block of Back Hampden Sydney Road, in Prince Edward County. That location is in the middle of the four departments. Units received an update from dispatch saying the building was fully involved with tractors inside. Farmville Engine 1 was first on scene, followed by Prospect, which set up a pond for water shuttle. The blaze was brought under control in about 20 minutes. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 13
Norfolk Residential Fire Companies from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Battalion 3 went to work on October 28, 2020. Engines 04, 10 and 14, Ladder 14, Rescue 02, Battalion Chief 03, Medic 04, Chesapeake Engine 01, and Virginia Beach’s Engine 10 responded to the River Forrest Shores section of Norfolk for a residential structure fire. Crews made an aggressive attack and were able to bring the fire under control in 20 minutes. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk Fire & Rescue
Batterson Road Garage Fire Recently, Powhatan County Fire-Rescue responded to a fully involved commercial garage fire with collapse, on Batterson Road. The blaze started shortly after 1300. When crews arrived, they found a fully involved detached garage, and a working fire was transmitted. Fortunately there was a hydrant nearby and no one was injured. The cause was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Page 14, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
5 Displaced in Suffolk Duplex Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue units responded to a duplex fire on November 2, 2020, in the 6000 block of Brookwood Drive. Emergency Communications was contacted at 1810, advising of the fire at the residence in the Wynnwood neighborhood. The first units arrived at 1817. Battalion Chief Barney Howard advised that one duplex sustained significant fire and heat damage, and the adjacent duplex sustained significant smoke damage. There were no injuries. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Fire in Springfield Auto Repair Shop
FireNews.com
2-Alarmer in No-Hydrant Area
Recently, Powhatan Fire and EMS responded to Setting Sun Drive for a second-alarm structure fire. The blaze started just before 1100. When they arrived on scene the house was fully involved. This was a difficult fire to stop due to the lack of hydrants in the area, requiring multiple tankers to be called. All occupants made it out safely. The structure suffered a partial collapse. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
All Out at Structure Fire
On October 6, 2020, at approximately 1151, units from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue and the Fort Belvoir Fire and Emergency Services responded to a reported building fire in the 7600 block of Loisdale Road in the Springfield area of Fairfax County. Units arrived to a large, two-story auto dealership with smoke coming out of multiple garage bays. Crews quickly located fire in and below a vehicle that was being serviced and up on a lift. The fire sprinkler system activated and kept the fire contained until it was able to be fully extinguished by firefighters. Fire investigators determined the fire was caused by the arcing of a battery-operated tool that had been doused in gasoline. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County Fire & Rescue
On September 6, 2020, Company 3 (Chase City), Company 2 (Buckhorn), Lunenburg Company 2 (Victoria), CCRS, LCSO, and VSP responded for a structure fire. Engine 34 with a crew of six arrived to fire showing from side D. The crew of E 34 split into fire attack and search. Knockdown was quickly achieved and luckily all animals were found outside of the home. - Submitted by Josh Whitten
House Fire in Woodstock
Suffolk Fire and Rescue units responded September 26, 2020, to a residential structure fire in the 100 block of Kingsdale Road in the Kingsdale neighborhood. Emergency Communications was contacted at 2015 and the first unit arrived on scene at 2022. Battalion Chief William Kessinger arrived to heavy fire showing from an unoccupied single-story residence. Three adults were displaced and multiple pets perished in the fire, including three dogs, seven kittens, and five snakes. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was ground transported to a local hospital. Responding units included Battalions 1, 2, and 3; Engines 4, 6, and 9; Ladder 3, Medic 6, EMS-2, Safety 1, and Rescue 1. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Fire crews responded to a well involved single-family home at approximately 0215 on September 20, 2020. After conducting a transitional attack, crews extinguished the reminder of the blaze and conducted overhaul for approximately two hours. Two dogs were rescued. Assisting Woodstock were Toms Brook, Strasburg, and Edinburg Fire Companies, Strasburg and Woodstock Rescue, and Shenandoah County Fire and Rescue. The home was destroyed. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Pets Perish in Residential Structure Fire
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 15
Page 16, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Horse Down in Rappahannock County On September 18, 2020 at 1637, the Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team was dispatched to assist a veterinarian that was treating a horse — “Pucci” — that was down in a barn in Rappahannock County. The plan was to move Pucci onto the glide, then use the Becker sling to lift him with a tractor. Once on his feet, crews slowly lowered him down until sedation had worn off. He was released and then moved over to a field to graze and told everyone that he was alright by neighing loudly. A big thank you goes out to the team members along with the volunteers who staffed the ambulance and engine company during the incident. Thanks to the Amissville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company for their assistance. - Photo courtesy of The Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team
Regional Water Rescue Incident Ends in Successful Rescue On November 9, 2020, firefighters from Chesterfield, Powhatan and Goochland counties responded to the call of a swimmer in distress. The incident was treated as a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation to locate a missing female who became stuck after her kayak flipped in the James River in between Watkins and Robious Landings. After nearly two hours of no contact, her friends/family tracked her whereabouts using the Find My Friends app which pinged near the 288 Bridge. Chesterfield Fire and EMS sent a full dive assignment to Robious Landing Park where Engine 204, and Battalion Chief 203 searched the shoreline, while other Chesterfield units responded to Watkins Boat Landing with Goochland Fire and Rescue and Powhatan Fire and Rescue. The victim was successfully rescued in this joint departmental effort. - Fire News photo by Christian Davies
Cow Down in Nokesville On October 12, 2020, the Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team was requested to assist with a cow down in a field in Nokesville. Assistance was requested from the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue for manpower. Engine 505 and the battalion chief arrived and crews rolled the cow over onto the rescue glide and secured her head. Crews were operating in rainy conditions so everything was covered in mud. Due to conditions crews used a tractor to pull the rescue glide into the barn. Thank you to the PWCDFR staff that helped with this operation. Also a big thank you to the Little Fork volunteers who assisted and those that staffed the ambulance and engine company while crews were committed to this incident. - Photo courtesy of the Little Fork Technical Large Animal Rescue Team
Hunter Street Closed Due to Gas Leak On October 8, 2020, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the scene of a gas line rupture in the 300 block of Hunter Street in the Pleasant Hill neighborhood. Emergency Communications was made aware of the incident at 1125, in which contractors had ruptured a gas service line. A total of 14 homes were evacuated. Several citizens received shelter on the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Rehab Bus. Virginia Natural Gas crews were also on scene. No injuries were reported. - Submitted by Diana Klink
FireNews.com
Tech Rescue in Fairfax County
On November 3, 2020, at approximately 1318, Fairfax County Fire Rescue crews responded to Hunter Mill Road and Water Falls Lane for a dump truck that rolled down an embankment. Technical rescue resources/techniques were used to get the patient up hill to an awaiting ambulance. The patient was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 17
Page 20, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
3 Hurt in Farmville MVA Recently, Farmville crews responded to an MVA with entrapment off Route 45. Crews from Farmville Squad 1 extricated two occupants and the occupant of the other vehicle was self extricated. Three patients were transported to a local hospital for their injuries. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
MC Down in Shenandoah NP Recently, Ruckersville Fire Company units were dispatched to Spotswood Trail in Shenandoah National Park for reports of two motorcyclists down. Engine 22, Engine 21 and Chief 20 responded along with Greene EMS. One patient was flown to UVA with serious injuries. - Photo courtesy of Ruckersville VFC
4 Injured in Car into Structure Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the Vision works at Stone Village Way for a reported vehicle-versusbuilding call. Upon arrival of Engine Company 20, they discovered one vehicle that had driven through the front of the store. The driver of the vehicle was trapped, along with four other patients that were inside the building at the time. Firefighters made successful rescues and evaluated all patients. Four people were transported. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn and Christian Davies
Truck Accident on Hopewell Bridge Recently, Hopewell Fire and Rescue, Prince George Fire and EMS, Company 5, Company 1 and Company 2 responded to a tractor-trailer accident on 295 South at the 13 milemarker on the Hopewell Bridge. Fortunately, a family of four was out of the vehicle on arrival and transported with minor injuries. - Photo courtesy of Hopewell Fire & Rescue
Page 22, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
Ruckersville MVA
Recently, Ruckersville Engine 21 handled an MVA with an occupant entrapped, in Ruckersville’s first-due area. Engine 21’s crew extricated the patient and assisted rescue with patient care. - Photo courtesy of Ruckersville VFC
Train vs. Vehicle Accident in Downtown Suffolk
Suffolk Police and Suffolk Fire and Rescue units responded to an accident involving a Norfolk Southern train and a passenger vehicle in downtown Suffolk. Emergency Communications was contacted at 0504 on November 20, 2020, advising of an accident that occurred at the railroad crossing at Liberty Street. A Norfolk Southern train was traveling westbound and hit a car at the crossing. The adult male driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle, received emergency medical assessment and treatment for serious injuries and was ground transported to a local hospital for further treatment. There was no derailment. - Submitted by Diana Klink
MCV with Entrapment
Company 12 extricated one individual from a vehicle on its side following an MVC on September 22, 2020, on Spring Street in Woodstock. The extrication took about 10 minutes. Assisting were Woodstock Rescue and Shenandoah County Fire and Rescue. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
FireNews.com
Four Run After MVA in Farmville
The Farmville Volunteer Fire Department and Prince Edward Rescue responded to an MVA on October 28, 2020, at Main and Osborn Streets at about 1400. Upon their arrival the driver of one car said he did not need aid. Crews asked the Farmville Police, where the other driver was, and he advised that the other driver, and three occupants, had fled. Police found two of them about a half-mile away and one needed medical attention. The other two were found later in Cumberland County. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
Chesterfield MVA
Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS, responded to Otterdale Road for an MVA into a tree. Upon arrival, the patient was out of the vehicle, and was transported by Medic 20 to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Head-on Injures 1 on Route 600
Recently, a car and a pickup were traveling on Route 600 (River Road) in opposite directions. The road is unmarked and narrow and the two vehicles hit head on, striking the driver side fenders on both vehicles. Both vehicles overturned and continued rolling down the road. The car had full air bags, the car driver was able to get out of the vehicle with no injuries.The driver of the pickup, which only had dash air bags, had some injuries and was taken to Centra Hospital in Farmville by Prince Edward Rescue. Randolph Engine 47 and Car 4 also responded. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 23
Up Close & Personal
Finesse! Trying to pick up an egg while holding 50 pounds of Hurst equipment with thousands of pounds-per-square-inch of hydraulic pressure behind it takes some serious skill, plus a few cracked eggs. Great job to members who participated, and great training. - Photo courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Recently, fire departments from HampdenSydney, Farmville, Prospect and Darling Heights responded to a fire in Prince Edward County. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
On August 24, 2020, volunteers from Prince George Volunteer Fire Department and career staff from Prince George Fire and EMS participated in vehicle extrication training with their new battery-powered Holmatro tools. - Submitted by Lisa Hartsell
Page 24, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Up Close & Personal
Fairfax County Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief Philippa Durham. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County Fire-Rescue
Firefighters from Powhatan County Fire-Rescue. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Firefighters from the Norfolk Fire Department. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Firefighters of the Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company. - Photo courtesy of Ruckersville VFC
Fort Lee Firefighter Christopher Mitchell. - Photo courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Rockbridge County 2020 FF2 Class Standing (left to right) Dylan Hickok, Jason Myers, Chelsea Brooks, Dakota Boyers, Lisa Davis. Kneeling (left to right) Raymond Owen, Jr.; Wyatt Moran; Dakota Dolin; and Levi Ulrich. The students were from Raphine Fire, South River Fire, Lexington Fire-EMS, Riverheads Fire, and Rockbridge County Fire Rescue. - Photo courtesy of South River Fire Department
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 25
Up Close & Personal
Members of the Cherrydale Volunteer Fire Department. - Photo provided
All in the Family Myself, my wife Amy, and my son Cody are all firefighters. Amy is the first career female firefighter in Nottoway County (Burkeville Fire is a combination department). Our son Cody (17) is now a Junior Firefighter with us in Burkeville and has completed Pro Board certification as FF1 and HazMat Ops - Submitted by JR Tharpe
Firefighters from the Chesterfield Fire Department after a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Powhatan County Fire-Rescue clearing after a fully involved commercial garage fire with collapse on Batterson Road. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
(Above and right): Volunteers from Prince George Volunteer Fire Department and career staff from Prince George Fire and EMS participated in vehicle extrication training with their new batterypowered Holmatro tools. - Submitted by Lisa Hartsell
Page 26, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Training
Crater Tech Rescue Team Training
The Crater Region Technical Rescue Team rope rescue drill was conducted with members from Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg and Prince George fire departments in October.
Recently, the team has added drone capabilities from Prince George. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Train, Train, Train! Keeping your skills up-to-date and proficient is vital for safety. Take the craft seriously and strive to remain efficient in all areas. Recently, Fort Lee Tower Ladder 1 and Medic 2 trained on wildland firefighting operations and area familiarization, with some areas that have a high potential to be impacted from a brush fire. - Photo courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Burn Building Training Volunteers from Prince George Volunteer Fire Department spent several hours on October 26, 2020, performing search and rescue evolutions in zero-visibility conditions. They also worked on aerial truck setup and operations with newer members. Principles of scene size up and incident command were also practiced with future leaders. PGVFD is a team that recognizes everyone’s learning contributions and achievements. And when they train, helping one another helps them all! - Submitted by Lisa Hartsell
Page 28, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Training
Still Flying Recently, members of Chickahominy Station 10 were invited to the Hanover County Municipal Airport for some special aircraft training. The crew of this B17 WWII bomber discussed their pre-flight routines, fuel loads and rescue operations associated with the flying museum. Station 10 is located within a three minute drive of the airport and would respond to any type of aircraft emergency. There are not many of these legendary bombers still flying which made for a unique learning opportunity for the visiting firefighters. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County Fire-Rescue & L. Buchanan
Low-Viz Training for Chesterfield Scuba Rescue Recently, the Chesterfield Fire and EMS Scuba Rescue team did underwater rescue/recovery training in very low-visibility water. Crews put a mannequin in the water, and then other crews searched for it. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Basement Fire Training Recently, Rockbridge County 2020 Firefighter 2 class did a training session in which crews drilled on basement fire scenarios. - Submitted by South River FD
Crater Regional HazMat Team Trains Recently, the Crater Regional Hazardous Materials team were finally able to do some in-person training. The regional HazMat team consist of members from Hopewell Fire and Rescue, Colonial Heights Fire and EMS, Petersburg Fire Department, Prince George County Fire and EMS and Fort Lee Fire and Emergency Services. The training was all about personal protective equipment and doing tasks that may be encountered during a hazmat incident while wearing PPE. - Photo courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 29
Hanover’s New Apparatus
The team from Hanover Fire-EMS @hanoverfireems1 completed inspection of their 2020 Pierce Mfg Arrow XT 100-foot Ascendant Aerial Tower. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County Fire & EMS Department
Ruckersville Gets New Pierce Engine
Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company members recently traveled to Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton, Wisconsin, to conduct a final inspection of new Engine 22. The RVFC is extremely happy with how it has turned out and is anxiously awaiting the new engine’s arrival. - Photo courtesy of Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company
New Fairfax Station 44 Construction Moving Along!
Construction of new Fairfax Station 44, Scotts Run, continues to progress nicely. The new station is being built as part of a development condition to meet growing needs for emergency services in Tyson’s area. Substantial completion is estimated for February 2021 and occupancy in March/April 2021. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County Fire-Rescue
American Heart Association Heartsaver Hero Awards Mike Harmon, EMS Liaison from Bon Secours MRMC, visited to thank members from Ashland Station 1, Engine 401 and Ashland Station 16, and Medic 416 for a job well done. They were commended for their recent successful efforts in reviving a 51-year-old heart attack victim. Outstanding bystander CPR followed by Fire-EMS CPR, early defibrillation and quick transport made the difference in saving a life. Great work everyone and thank you, Bon Secours MRMC for your recognition! (Left to right, front row): Berk Jones and Mike Harmon. (Back row): Carter Gryder, Jacob Wilkinson and Lieutenant Andy Beaulieu. Not pictured: Jake Lumpkin. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County Fire-EMS Department
Farmville Fire Department The Farmville Fire Department, formed in 1870, is located in Prince Edward County. They house an engine, squad, brush truck, utility, ladder truck and a tanker. It provides services to the Town of Farmville and to the surrounding areas in portions of Prince Edward, Cumberland and Buckingham counties. The department’s 45 volunteer members provide fire suppression, education, and prevention services to the nearly 10,000 people in their first-due area from a station located in downtown Farmville. In addition, the department’s Special Operations Unit, the only one of its kind for nearly 50 miles, provides response to and mitigation of incidents involving hazardous materials, suspected terrorist or criminal activity, and when specialized services are requested by other agencies. - Fire News photo by Christian Davies
Staunton Gets New Tiller
Staunton Fire and Rescue recently placed in service their new Pierce Tiller. - Fire News photo by Christian Davies
Page 30, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
NFR’s New Lt. Charles Spencer Davis Congratulations to NFR’s new Lieutenant Charles Spencer Davis. He was sworn in by Fire Chief John DiBacco at Fire Station 7 in the company of his new crew and Battalion Chief. His new assignment is Ladder 07-B Shift. Best of luck, Lieutenant Davis! - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire-Rescue
Norfolk FireRescue Holds Virtual Fire Prevention Presentation Recently, Firefighter Michelle Morgan held a zoom session at Fire Station 1 for some first graders in Norfolk. Because October is Fire Prevention Month, she was able to still reach the students and talk about fire safety, and they still saw a fire truck too! - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire-Rescue
New Apparatus for Hanover Fire-EMS
Recently, Hanover Fire-EMS placed a 2020 Pierce Mid-Mount in service as Truck 413. T413 is the only staffed ladder truck in Hanover County. The county also recently placed in service Medic 410, a 2020 Ford F-350 Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Christian Davies
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 31
Cover Story
Albemarle County Truck Rollover
On November 10, 2020, at approximately 0834, Albemarle County Fire Rescue responded to a tractor trailer that had rolled on its side on the Exit 114 on-ramp from Route 637 onto Interstate 64. First responders from ACFR, Albemarle County Police Department, Charlottesville Fire Department, Western Albemarle Rescue Squad, and Virginia State Police arrived on scene to assist with the rescue. The driver was transported to UVA Hospital. - Submitted by Abbey Stumpf
Page 32, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Looking Back
Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Fort Lee Fire and Emergency Services was founded in 1917 during WWI. It was originally known as Camp Lee. During the many years of growth, reductions and expansion, the fire department has been in some sort of operation for over 100 years. It’s nice to look back at our past and see how we’ve grown and changed. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2020/January 2021, Page 33
SUTPHEN CORPORATION SHATTERS INDUSTRY RECORD
SUTPHEN’S NEW INDUSTRIAL PUMPER IS THIRD-PARTY RATED AT A RECORD 6000 GPM FROM DRAFT Sutphen Corporation, the largest familyowned fire apparatus manufacturer in the nation, announced that its new Sutphen Industrial Solutions Pumper shattered the industry’s record with a third-party rating of 6,000 gallons per minute from draft. While officially rated at 6,000 gallons per minute from draft, the industrial pumper is capable of flowing over 6,500 gallons per minute from draft with unmatched abilities to pump from a pressurized source. “As we continue to innovate and build our industrial portfolio, this record-setting apparatus solidifies Sutphen as a leader in the industrial fire industry,” said Zach Rudy, Sutphen’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “Between our renown pumpers and worldclass aerials, we provide our customers with the best options in the industrial fire market.” Built on a Sutphen extreme-duty, Monarch
chassis, the 304-stainless-steel industrial body was manufactured for the extreme conditions found on an industrial fire ground. Complete with a Double Thunder, Hale’s
6,000 gallon per minute midship pump, and a direct-inject foam system, the unit highlights Sutphen’s abilities to integrate innovation
into every aspect of its trucks. “We are proud to have participated in bringing this powerful, high-quality, heavyduty industrial pumper to the market,” said Jim Kirvida, leader of Sutphen Industrial Solutions. “Collaboration between our two like-minded engineering and manufacturing teams resulted in a record-breaking rating of 6000-plus GPM, proving Sutphen a respected leader in the industrial fire market.” Sutphen and its network of dealers are currently demonstrating the unit across the country while it awaits a buyer. The demonstration unit is available for an accelerated delivery. For additional information regarding the Sutphen Industrial Solution pumper, follow this link: https://www.sutphen.com/ in-stock/demo-479-industrial-pumper/
Page 34, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com
Page 36, Fire News, December 2020/January 2021
FireNews.com