VIRGINIA Serving VOLUME 2, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1973
JUNE/JULY 2021
Story on page 12. - Submitted by Chief Terry A. Pettit
Looking Back: VA Fire History Please see page 16.
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 3
In this issue... Norfolk 3-Alarm with Collapse A-Shift crews from all over Norfolk came together to fight a blaze on Colonial Place. See story on page 6
Factory Fire in Crewe Recently, the Farmville Fire Department was called out for mutual aid to Crewe, in Nottway County. See story on page 13
A Service for Virginia Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 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
Stanley House a Total Loss On May 13, 2021, firefighters worked on a fully involved house fire.
BARBARA CONNOLLY: Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ: Editorial Assistant Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES
See story on page 17 COPYRIGHT 2021, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Horse Down in Fairfax County The Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Team, tended to a horse down in a field in the Lorton area. See story on page 23
Training Across Virginia Extensive Fire News coverage of training throughout Virginia. See story on pages 24-32
Antique Fest a Hit Antique Fest was held at the Apple Blossom Mall in Winchester under sunny skies, and cool, crisp mountain weather. See story on page 35
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 31 & 38 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 37 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 37 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 37
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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 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, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, June/July 2021
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Learning from Your Peers? When I joined the fire service, I was aware of some of the traditions that all fire departments seem to embrace. No, I most definitely am not speaking of hazing. Hazing is a ritual that involves risk, pain or harm as part of an initiation into a group. In the most organizations, hazing is frowned upon and has serious consequences. One of the first traditions I learned at a very young age, was to knock with your elbows! If you visit any firehouse, bring a cake. It was a family ritual that every other Friday of the month I ventured with my dad to his firehouse in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Before we left our house, mom had a freshly baked cake ready to go with us. That cake meant a lot to the guys who were sitting at the kitchen table drinking their coffee and involved in conversation. Yes, the firehouse kitchen seemed like a special place where the family of firefighters were always welcomed and could also share their thoughts and ask questions. The kitchen table was also a special place. Firefighters could share their personal experiences with one another. And whether they
wanted it or not, a solution to any problem was offered. Believe it or not, most firefighters were versed in many different aspects of life. Quite a few years back, I visited a neighboring firehouse and noticed a sign above a picnic table. The sign read, “Table of Knowledge.” Having a few years in the fire service, I simply read the sign and didn’t ask questions. A few years later, my breakfast table became known as the roundtable. I have coffee every day at the roundtable and yes, I usually wind up in a discussion that turns into several cups of coffee. The fire service is full of “unwritten rules.” You usually don’t learn about these sacred rules unless you share some time at the roundtable, the table of knowledge, the TV room, or any other place that you can engage in constructive conversation at the firehouse. How many times have you heard, “The new kids just don't get it?” The special places where we can engage in constructive conversation is a place to eliminate future problems by clarifying the social norms and expected conduct that’s not covered by poli-
cy both in the station and on incidents. I am always happy to see members working together as they help each other practice for future practical exams. With the advent of portable training props, I often see small groups of members working to force a door or spring a lock so that they are ready for that early morning automatic alarm. In the fire service, there is no excuse not to know something. Spending a little time sitting with the members of your company will prove to be a wealth of knowledge. Sit down together and discuss recent calls or events that you were at but weren’t sure why things were done in a certain manor. Make sense of the organized chaos by talking with the people who make a difference. Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Norfolk 3-Alarm with Collapse and Residents Displaced
Recently, A-Shift crews from all over Norfolk came together to fight a blaze on Colonial Place. With massive flames showing on arrival, the incident was immediately upgraded to a second alarm, and soon after, a third alarm. Over 50 firefighters battled to affect rescues and to gain control of the fire and, at one point, had to deal with a building collapse. Fire control was obtained in just over two hours. Amazingly, there were only five injuries reported, with only two civilians transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The other three injuries were evaluated at the scene and then released. Crews and the fire marshals remained on scene to conduct their investigation. The three-story building was severely damaged with six units gutted, and all 12 units sustaining water damage. Red Cross responded to assist the civilians who were displaced. Virginia Beach Fire Department, Virginia Beach EMS, and the Chesapeake Fire Department responded for mutual aid assistance. - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Page 8, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Chimney Fire on South Airport Rd. On May 12, 2021, at approximately 0130, crews battled a house fire on South Airport Road. The fire started in the attic next to the chimney. The house was a restored two-story farm house, with a tin roof and fire started in the C- D corner of the attic. The second floor had 5/8inch sheet rock ceilings which held the fire to the attic. All residents were alerted by smoke alarm and got out. Firefighters pulled the ceiling in the C-D corner of the second floor and quickly extinguished the fire. There was heavy damage to the attic. Responding, units were Randolph District Fire
Suffolk Fire & Rescue Residential Structure Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the scene of a residential structure fire on June 2, 2021, in the 400 block of Wilson Street. Emergency Communications was contacted at 0249. Battalion Chief William Kessinger advised that the first units arrived to a two-story duplex with heavy smoke showing from a vacant downstairs apartment. Crews entered the apartment and found a small fire in the front room of the downstairs apartment. The fire was contained to that room and was marked under control at 0303. - Submitted by Tim Kelley, PIO
Department, Farmville Fire Department and a tanker from the Cumberland Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Dan Pempel
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 9
Fort Lee Assists at Wildfire Recently, Fort Lee Engine 1, Engine 2 and wildland units responded to assist crews in Prince George County with a fairly large brush fire. Units operated under the multijurisdiction command for several hours fighting fire and protecting homes. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Brush Fire Season
With the warmer weather moving in, brush fire activity has increased in many areas. Recently, Fort Lee’s Engine and Brush 1 took in a small grass fire within their jurisdiction. The fire was quickly contained by crews without incident. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Page 10, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Improper Disposal of Hot Briquets Causes Burke House Fire On May 2, 2021, at approximately 2142, Fairfax Fire Rescue units were dispatched for a house fire in the 6300 block of Four Oaks Lane in the Burke section of Fairfax County. Units arrived to a two-story, singlefamily home with a heavy volume of fire visible in the garage. Crews worked rapidly to extinguish the fire and limit advancement into home. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire. Both occupants saw smoke and flames in the garage, evacuated and called 911. Fire investigators determined that the fire was accidental in nature and started in the
garage by improper disposal of hot charcoal briquets into a combustible container. Two occupants were displaced because of the fire. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax Fire Rescue
Collapse at Totally Involved House Fire Cumberland Dispatch received a call from a person on Plank Road saying they could see a glow over the trees, from a fire about a half-mile away, near South Airport Road. Dispatch called out Randolph District Fire at 2340. The area is mostly heavy forest with a few houses. No fire could be seen on South Airport Road, and fire units went to North Airport Road, about a half-mile north and found a two-story house fully involved which had already collapsed into the basement. There was nobody in the house as it was being restored. The house fire was under investigation, due to other recent brush fires in the area as well. - Fire News photos by Dan Pempel
5 Displaced at Norfolk House Fire Norfolk A-shift crews from the 2nd Battalion were called recently for a structure fire in Ocean View. Engine 13, E 09, E 15, Navy E 13, L 13, M 09, R 02, BC 02 and BC 03 arrived to find flames showing from a residence, shortly after 0500. Crews worked for just over an hour to obtain fire control, as there was another exposure building at risk as well. Five citizens and their two dogs were displaced, and Red Cross was contacted for assistance. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Firefighters Respond to Residential Structure Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on May 5, 2021, to a residential structure fire in the 300 block of Bank Street in downtown Suffolk. First arriving units found the fire confined to the kitchen area of a first-floor apartment. No occupants were home at the time of the fire, and it is unknown how many persons resided at the residence and were displaced. Responding units included Battalion 1; Engines 1, 2, 3, and 4; Ladders 3 and 6; Safety 1; Medic 1; Rescue 1; and EMS1. - Submitted by Diana Klink
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 11
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Cover Story
Stanley FFs Battle Blaze at Farm
The Stanley Fire Department was called for a large fire involving wooden pallets and machinery at the Hunts Run Farm on Dairy Drive recently. Chief Terry A. Pettit stated that when firefighters arrived a large pile of wooden pallets and discarded doors were ablaze and threatening a nearby building and a fuel storage tank. A large grinder adjacent to the pile was also on fire. Firefighters were able to keep the building from burning and the fuel tank cool until the fire could be brought under control. Due to high winds and the amount of combustible material stored nearby, additional tankers
were called in to help extinguish the blaze. Water was shuttled from a pond three miles from the scene but after two hours of flowing water and the fire still burning it was decided to smother it with large amounts of dirt stockpiled nearby. Six units and 25 firefighters from the Stanley Fire Department responded to the call and were on the scene until midnight. They were assisted by two tankers and two engines from Luray and Shenandoah. The Page County EMS and a unit from the Stanley Rescue Squad also responded. No injuries were reported. - Submitted by Chief Terry A. Pettit
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Factory Fire in Crewe
Recently, the Farmville Fire Department was called out for mutual aid to Crewe, in Nottway County, with their ladder truck. Crewe had an aircraft tire manufacturing factory on fire. The building had a fire wall in the middle of the building, which helped contain the blaze. Also responding were Crewe, Blackstone, Burkeville, Victoria and Ft. Pickett (airport foam unit). The fire started in the B/C corner of the building with fire coming through the roof. The fire wasbrought under control about 1230. - Fire News photos by Dan Pempel & Bill Bernhard
Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 13
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Shed/Garage Fire Spreads
On May 11, 2021, at 1356, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 10500 block of Spring Run Road for a brush fire. Upon arrival, Battalion Chief 1 noticed a smoke column, declared a working incident and requested a working incident engine. Engine 19 quickly arrived to find a fully involved large shed that was spreading to a garage. There was also a vacant trailer as an exposure on the Charlie side. The fire was very fast moving and quickly spread to the Charlie side exposure. At that time command requested two more engines. There were no hydrants in the area, so fire crews used multiple tankers for their water source. The fire was able to be marked under control in about an hour. Crews remained on scene for multiple hours for an excessive amount of overhaul. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Page 16, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Looking Back 2016 Rocky Mount Fire
The April 2016 Rocky Mount fire in the Shenandoah National Park burned more than 10,000 acres before heavy rains helped extinguish it. The blaze burned for days, and over 300 fire personnel were assigned to the incident. - Photos courtesy of Virginia Department of Fire Programs
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 17
Stanley House a Total Loss
The Stanley Fire Department was called to a house fire on May 13, 2021, at 1253. The home was located on Mill Creek Road, three miles North of Stanley. Chief Terry A. Pettit stated that when firefighters arrived the 1-1/2 wood frame was fully ablaze and was a total loss. Chief Pettit stated the probable cause was a spark from a nearby brush pile burning, which ignited an outbuilding adjacent to the house and then spread quickly onto the back of the house
itself. There were no injuries reported. Five Stanley units and 17 firefighters responded and were on the scene for nearly four hours. They were assisted by Luray and Page County EMS. - Submitted by Chief Terry A. Pettit
Roland Drive Fire Norfolk Fire crews on scene of a recent working fire on Roland Drive. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Quick Stop by Fairfax On May 14, 2021, Fairfax units responded to a house fire in the 6000 block of Selwood Place, in the Springfield area. The fire was quickly brought under control by crews. There were no reported firefighter or civilian injuries. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County Fire Rescue
Page 18, Fire News, June/July 2021
Chesterfield Shed Fire
On April 24, 2012, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 5700 block of Canasta Drive for a structure fire. The caller stated that their shed with multiple vehicles inside was on fire. Battalion 1 arrived to find a fully involved 20- x 40-foot shed. Engine 11 quickly got water on the fire and crews went into the defensive mode, protecting exposures. Units were on scene for about three hours. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
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Suffolk Residential Fire Stopped
Suffolk Fire and Rescue units responded on April 27, 2021, to a residential structure fire at the Wilson Pines Apartments complex on East Washington Street in Suffolk. First arriving units found light smoke showing from a second-floor apartment. No residents were home at the time. The fire was quickly knocked down and was confined to the kitchen. The two occupants were offered assistance from the American Red Cross. Responding units included Battalions 4 and 5; Engines 1, 3, 9 and 10; Ladders 3, 5, and 6; Medic 3, EMS-1, and Training 1. Carrolton provided mutual aid to backfill Station 9. The Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause of the fire. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Trailer Fires Spread
On April 22, 2021, at 1500, Blairs Fire and Rescue responded to Keeling Drive (Paradise Lakes Camp Ground) for a reported structure fire. When units arrived, they found a camper with heavy smoke and fire, which extended to the camper next to it. A third camper was moved away but received moderate damage. The two on fire were total losses. The fire had spread across the roadway to a wooded lot and another camper. The fires were brought under control in approximately an hour. The owner was at home when the fire started and was able to kick out a rear window and escape with minor burns. However, two family pets could not be rescued. One person received burns to her face and head but was in stable condition and remained on scene with family members. The Red Cross was called to assist the families affected. - Fire News photo by Scott Eanes
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 19
Richmond Truck Overturn
Nice Save at 2-Car Head-on
Recently, Richmond crews responded to Interstate 95 North at the Bells Road exit for the report of an overturned tractor trailer, which was carrying cardboard. The truck was leaking diesel fuel, so the HazMat Team was requested. Crews managed to slow the leak and worked with contractors to offload the tanks. There were no reported injuries. - Photo courtesy of Richmond FD
Chesterfield MVA Overturn On April 23, 2021, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 2200 block of Winterfield Road for an MVA overturn. A caller said it appeared everyone was out. Engine 5 arrived to one vehicle overturned with heavy damage to the vehicle. Medic 45 then made patient contact and discovered one green patient and handled a patient refusal. Engine 5 then marked the incident under control and handed the call over to Chesterfield Police Department. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Man Injured in Tractor Accident Suffolk Fire and Rescue and Suffolk Police responded to an accident involving an overturned tractor that pinned an adult male on May 1, 2021, in the 1500 block of Pitchkettle Road. The tractor was being unloaded when the tractor shifted and pinned the adult male victim underneath the rear wheel. Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel performed a technical rescue, utilizing specialized equipment to remove the tractor from the victim. The victim received emergency medical assessment and treatment and was ground transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital with serious injuries. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Recently, crews responded to a two-car head-on MVA in front of the Randolph District fire house on Route 45/Cumberland Road. Lieutenant Bill Bernhard was alone in the firehouse and heard a crash, looked outside and saw the MVA and quickly radioed it in, giving an update on injuries. Two people were injured in one car and one unconscious and not breathing in the other. He did mouth-to-mouth and got that victim breathing. Two Cumberland ambulances treated the patients and Randolph Fire had to pop the door on the one car. The three patients were transported to Chipenham Hospital due to Farmville Hospital being full. - Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
Messy MVA on I-81 South River, Lexington, Raphine and Buena Vista fire departments, and Fairfield Rescue Squad responded to a tanker truck that was rear-ended on Interstate 81 at the 197 milemarker northbound. The tanker was hauling Canola oil and spilled 6000 gallons. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
A Busy Day for Little Fork Volunteers On May 5, 2021, the Little Fork Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company responded to five incidents. The first incident, at 0818, was a several-vehicle collision with entrapment on Rixeyville Road near Deerfield Road. The road was reported as blocked. Units arrived to find a three-vehicle collision, with two vehicles striking head on. There were two occupants trapped. Compounding the issues were several paint cans and mortar bags that had exploded on impact. Ambulance 9-1, Rescue Engine 9 and Chief 9 were the initial units to respond. There were four patients needing transport. Companies 12 and 1403 were requested to assist, providing two transport units and an additional engine company. Little Fork’s Ambulance 9-2 also responded. The patients were quickly extricated by Rescue Engine 9’s crew. All four patients were transported by EMS units to Fauquier Hospital. - Photo courtesy of the Little Fork Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company
Windy Day = Trees Down On May 29, 2021, Chesterfield Fire and EMS Engines 205 and 204 responded to two separate fire public service calls. Both calls were trees down blocking the roadway. Fire units were able to quickly cut up the tree and reopen the roadway. The region dealt with heavy rainfall and strong gusts of wind, which brought in a lot of calls for service throughout the county. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Page 22, Fire News, June/July 2021
Car into Structure
Recently, Fort Lee Fire, as part of the Crater Regional Technical Rescue Team, responded to a vehicle into a structure. Members assisted with removing the vehicle, stabilizing and shoring the house for safety. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 23
Horse Down in Fairfax County
On the morning of May 13, 2021, the Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Team, was contacted for a horse down in a field in the Lorton area of Fairfax County. The vet had been summoned and it was unknown as to how long “Spirit” — a 25-year old — had been down. A size up was performed and the vet examined him and felt that if he were lifted there was an exceptionally good chance he would be able to stand on his own. Fairfax County Engine 420 arrived. Crews decided to move the horse into a better position to apply the Becker sling and perform a lift. The vet administered sedation and crews secured head protection, and then placed a strap under Spirit pulling him into position. Crews used the rescue glide as a surface to move him.
Spirit was then rigged with the Becker sling and the tractor was moved into place. Crews covered the front area of the tractor with flotation devices to protect Spirit (in case he swung back into the machine). The sedation began to wear off as the lift began. Once up, Spirit relied on the sling for some time for balance. Eventually he tried to stand on his own. Crews slowly lowered the sling, and he began to stand without any assistance. Crews kept him in the sling and eventually were able to release him. He stood for a while and then was coaxed into taking some short steps. It took some time, but he eventually walked away and was standing on his own. - Photos courtesy of Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue Team
Tree Worker Rescued Recently, a Norfolk Fire Rescue Special Operations Team was called to a technical rescue off Elmhurst Avenue. E10, M11, L14, R02 and BC03 responded for a tree worker stuck in a disabled lift as a result of a broken hydraulic line. Crews were able to safely bring him down. There were no injuries, and the rescue was complete in just 30 minutes. - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Page 24, Fire News, June/July 2021
Water Rescue by Chesterfield
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On May 8, 2021, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 4600 block of Millridge Parkway at the Swift Creek Reservoir for an above water rescue. The caller advised that there was a capsized boat and that everyone was out and was wearing a PFD. The boat was reported to be about 200 yards from the boat ramp. Boat 7 arrived on scene and quickly got a boat in the water. Battalion 4 arrived and took command. Boat 7 made patient contact and determined there was no injuries and there was only one patient. Boat 7 brought the patient back to land and secured the boat. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Woman Injured in Skydiving Incident Suffolk Police and Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on May 8, 2021, to an incident at the Suffolk Executive Airport. Upon preliminary investigation, it was determined that a female skydiver was injured when she landed on top of an aircraft hangar. Suffolk Fire and Rescue personnel had to utilize the platform of a ladder truck to reach the victim, who received emergency medical assessment and treatment and was ground transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. Responding units included Battalion 1;, Engine 2, Ladder 3, Rescue1, EMS1, Medic 1, and Safety 1. - Submitted by Diana Klink
Training
Water Rescue Training in Chesterfield
Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS crews conducted a water rescue drill, training on multiple scenarios. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn and Hayden Lear
Page 26, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Training
First Establish a Water Supply Recently, Fort Lee firefighters freshened up their skills involving water supply for their pumpers. Drop tanks, like the one shown in the photo, are one of the options they have to get water when fire hydrants are not readily available. - Photo courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Trauma Life Support Training Recently, Fort Lee and Hopewell firefighters completed a twoday Pre-hospital Trauma Life Support class. Training like this teaches providers the best practices to help someone who is injured and bleeding. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Communication is Key Fort Lee members review the communications equipment used by their technical rescue team for confined space rescues. - Photos courtesy of Fort Lee Fire & Emergency Services
Huguenot Rope Training Recently, the Huguenot Volunteer Fire Department trained on ropes and knots. - Fire News photos by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Page 28, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Training
1st In-Person TR Class Held in Norfolk
Recently, Norfolk Fire Rescue held its first technical rescue team drill for the year at Fire Station 1. Of high significance is the fact that this drill marked the first in-person TR drill that’s been held since the pandemic changed the course a bit. Much thanks to the
Technical Rescue Training Committee and to the crews from Station 1, 7 and 14 for making this drill a success. - Photos courtesy of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Page 30, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Training
Teaching Fire Streams Staunton Firefighter Alex Foresman teaching fire streams in the 2021 Rockbridge County Firefighter 1 course. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
Training Never Stops Little Fork Volunteer Fire and Rescue members reviewed and drilled on their current CPR protocols. - Photo courtesy of Little Fork Volunteer Fire & Rescue
Ladder Drills A City of Fairfax Volunteer Fire Department crew drills on Tower Ladder 403. - Photo courtesy of City of Fairfax VFD
Final Burn for FF I 2021 Rockbridge County Firefighter 1 final burn. Departments represented are; Goshen, Rockbridge Baths, South River, Lexington, Buena Vista and Riverheads. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 31
FIRSTNET®: MAKING FIRST RESPONDER HEALTH & WELLNESS A TOP PRIORITY
By Jason Porter, President, Public Sector and FirstNet, AT&T • And, more recently, we’ve added more health and wellness apps Four years ago, the federal government selected AT&T to enter into a public-private partnership to build and manage public safety’s net- to the FirstNet App Catalog and supported conferences and seminars work. And when we set out on this historic and critical initiative, we with 1st Responder Conferences. Moving forward, the FNHWC will serve as the backbone to everycommitted to Be There for America’s first responders. Now, as the FirstNet network turns 3, we’re going beyond our commitment to the thing we do to support the health and wellbeing of first responders. Coalition priorities were developed from the input of over 350 first federal government and have established the FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition (FNHWC) to coordinate how we support holistic responders in professions including law enforcement, fire, emergency communications, emergency management, and emergency medical health and wellness of first responders. Nothing is more important than the lives of first responders and the personnel. Priorities include Post Traumatic Stress, Suicide Prevention, people they serve day in, and day out. These are the men and women Physical Fitness, Stress Management, Resiliency, leadership engagethat run toward emergencies. And we understand the service public ment and others. The coalition will be developing integrated approachsafety provides to our communities does not come without personal es to raising awareness, identifying technical solutions and applications, and local targeted areas to support these priorities. sacrifice and burdens. We believe FirstNet is the most important wireless network in the With more than two dozen members representing more than 1.3 million first responders — including organizations like the country because it’s serving our first responders and the extended pubInternational Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of lic safety community. And we have a responsibility unlike any other Chiefs of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement wireless carrier to deliver for America’s first responders. Shaped by the Executives and National Emergency Management Association, to vision of the first responder community and Congress following the name a few — the mission of the FNHWC is to integrate responder, 9/11 terrorist attacks, FirstNet stands above commercial offerings. It is community, industry and academic capabilities to support the health, built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder wellness and readiness of first responders. We’re focused on collabo- Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) — an independent agency rating with our members to support healthy, well and resilient first within the federal government. The FirstNet network is providing pubresponders that are ready to support public safety at a moment’s notice. lic safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need Our support of first responder health and wellness began long it, unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption for first before the formation of the FNHWC through dedicated financial and responders, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, healthcare workers and law enforcement save resource support to public safety associations and related programs. • For the past two years, we’ve sponsored the IACP Officer Safety lives and protect their communities. Just as FirstNet is built for and by first responders, we want to be & Wellness Symposiums which focus on improving officer safety and wellness to enhance the health and effectiveness of officers, as well as there to support the health and well-being of those who serve their communities every day. the safety of the community. For more information on FirstNet, go to FirstNet.com. • Just last fall we launched a collaboration with All Clear Foundation to help increase the accessibility of education, resources FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks of the and support that will aid first responders who may be struggling with health wellness challenges brought on by the unique stressors of their First Responder Network Authority. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. jobs.
Page 32, Fire News, June/July 2021
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Training
South River Firefighter Brooke Wilmer practicing with the pump during the Rockbridge County Firefighter 1 course. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
Recently, crews participated in the Rockbridge County 2021 Mayday Firefighter Down class. Shown in the photo is South River Firefighter Brooke Wilmer doing the ladder bail. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
South River firefighters doing a night Mayday drill. - Photo courtesy of South River FD
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 33
Up Close & Personal
Three Generations of Stanley Firefighters Sitting on the left is Bruce Stoneberger who has been in the department for 47 years, in the middle is his son Brad Stoneberger who has been in the department for 21 years and on the right is Brad’s son and Bruce’s grandson Brennan Stonebeger who has been in the department for four years. Not pictured is Bruce’s other son Andrew Stoneberger who has been in the department for 20 years and now is working for a private contractor in Iraq. - Submitted by Terry A. Pettit
Chesterfield firefighters after a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Loudon County Deputy Chief Pat Reid with Alcoa’s new brush truck. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
A Chesterfield Fire Marshal at the scene of a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
A Chesterfield firefighter from Engine 20 after a recent alarm. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn & Hayden Lear
Page 34, Fire News, June/July 2021
Virginia Patches
City of Virginia Beach Fire Department.
Spotsylvania Volunteer Fire Department.
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City of Portsmouth Fire Department.
VA Dry Hydrant Grant Program
In rural areas where water mains and conventional fire hydrants are not accessible, installation of permanent dry hydrants may be an alternative solution for firefighting operations. Dry hydrants are non-pressurized pipe systems (typically constructed of inexpensive materials that are easy to maintain) that draft water from an adjacent body of water, such as a pond or stream. One end of the pipe system is situated in the water source, and the other end is available near the roadside, where firefighters can connect to the hydrant and pump from the water source.
Dry Hydrant Grant Program
The Virginia Dry Fire Hydrant grant program provides funding to cover the costs of installation and repair of dry hydrants to support firefighting operations. The program is a joint effort between the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) that provides state level funding on an annual basis for the installation of dry hydrants across the Commonwealth. Program support is available at the request of Virginia fire departments who secure approval from local landowners. The program provides 100 percent of the funding necessary to cover the expenses of new installations and repairs under the program. Virginia fire departments interested in the program are encouraged to seek new locations suitable for dry hydrant installations and to take advantage of the program by submitting a request for funding assistance to the VDOF.
To Apply
Applicant should submit Form 4.30 Dry Fire Hydrant Grant Program Application to the VDOF Fire and Emergency Response Branch. Application Deadline March 31 (each year) A variety of financial assistance programs exist through VDOF and partner agencies for wildfire preparation and suppression, as well as forest management activities. - Courtesy of Virginia Department of Fire Programs
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Antique Fest a Hit
Antique Fest was held on May 1, 2021, at the Apple Blossom Mall in Winchester under bright and sunny skies and cool and crisp mountain weather. Sponsored by Atlantic Emergency Equipment and the Old Dominion Fire Historical Society (ODFHS.com) modern and antique apparatus was displayed until 1500 and then all of the participants did a “Code 3” around the mall allowing all of the
Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 35
apparatus to be photographed (47 units!) Atlantic provided a demo apparatus and sponsored a firetruck rodeo where entrants showed off their driving skills. Firefighters from as far away as the Dakotas and Florida attended. This was held in lieu of the Apple Blossom Festival not having a firefighter’s parade this year. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Suffolk Fire & Rescue Summer Fire and Life Safety Camp Now Taking Applications The Suffolk Department of Fire and Rescue is pleased to announce the return of their popular Summer Fire and Life Safety Camps geared to youth ages six to nine. The half-day local camp runs Monday through Friday and exposes children to what it is like to be a firefighter with Suffolk Fire and Rescue with a variety of fun, challenging, entertaining and educational activities. The mission of the camp is to teach children safety lessons on things around their homes and schools which they encounter every day. Short lectures and lessons are followed by opportunities to actively participate in exercises designed to reinforce topics including firefighting, bike safety, water safety, search-and-rescue practices, first aid, and much more. The fee for each weekly session is $85 per child, which includes a camp t-shirt, various school supplies, and lunch each day except for Friday, when there will be a Camp Graduation for participants. Participants can arrive as early as 0730 and must be picked up by 1300. The sessions run from 0830 to 1230, Monday through Thursday, and 0830 until 1130 on Friday, with Camp Graduation beginning promptly at noon. Transportation to and from the camp is not provided. The available sessions and locations are as follows: Session 1, July 26 - July 30, Station #6, 300 Kings Fork Road Session 2, August 9 - August 13, Station #6, 300 Kings Fork Road The registration deadline is July 2, 2021. You may mail or drop off the application and fee to: Suffolk Fire & Rescue Summer Fire and Life Safety Camp, 300 Kings Fork Road, Suffolk, VA 23434. Checks will
need to be made out to the Jeff T. Messinger Memorial Fund. Space is limited, and Camps will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will not be confirmed for the Camp until the application and payment are received. For additional information, please contact Jeanie Brinkley at 514-4584. Application forms can be downloaded from: www.suffolkva.us/220/Fire-Rescue. - Submitted by Diana Klink
4 Saved at Chase City CO Incident
Fire Marshal Reminds Citizens of Motor Fuel Dispensing and Storage Safety
On the morning of February 15, 2021, at 0209, Company 3 and CCRS were dispatched for an unknown problem. Mecklenburg County Communications received a call from an individual not feeling well with possibly three others unconscious. The communicator recognized it as a possible carbon monoxide related call and passed along the information. Hearing the call dispatched, Sergeant Will Stembridge and Officer Michael Dailey responded to that location. Arriving within a minute, the two officers found a female and male semi-conscious close to the back door. With no regard for their own safety, Sgt. Stembridge and Officer Dailey entered the home and found two children unconscious in bed. The officers brought the children outside and laid them in a truck bed as Chief 3 and 34 were arriving. The two officers removed the adult male and female while Chief 3 and firefighters from E34 rendered aid to the children before the arrival of CCRS. All four later made a full recovery. Lethal amounts of CO were later discovered in the home. These two officers went above and beyond their job description and are true heroes in our community. For this we thank them and presented them both with a challenge coin from our department. From all of us at Chase City Volunteer Fire Department, thank you for all of the extra that you do for our community! Pictured: CCVFD Capt. Josh Whitten, Sgt. Stembridge, and Officer Michael Dailey. - Submitted by Josh Whitten-CCVFD
The Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office would like to remind citizens of the safe ways to dispense flammable fuels such as gas, diesel or heating oil into a portable container for proper storage. Battalion Chief Chris Cornwell, Fire Marshal, notes the following: • Flammable fuels should not be dispensed into portable containers over six gallons, and the containers should be listed and approved for the flammable liquid intended for the portable container. • Portable containers should have a tight closure with a screwed or spring-loaded cover to prevent spills and vapors from escaping. • When transporting gasoline in a portable container, make sure it is secured against tipping and sliding, and never leave it in direct sunlight or in the trunk of a car. • Flammable fuel should never be dispensed into portable cargo tanks or any other container not listed for flammable liquids. • Never fill a container while located in the trunk, passenger area of a car, or in the bed of a pickup truck. • All containers should be placed on the ground and clear of any possible ignition sources, such as the exhaust from a running vehicle. • Fill portable containers slowly to decrease the chance of static electricity buildup and minimize spilling or splattering. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the container opening while refueling. Fill container no more than 95-percent full to allow for expansion. • If gasoline spills on the container, make sure that it has evaporated before you place the container in your vehicle. Report any ground spills to the station attendant. • Never smoke around flammable fuels, and never use your cell phone at any time while dispensing fuel. For more information on fire safety, please contact the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Department at 757-514-4550, or email fireprevbureau@suffolkva.us. - Submitted by Diana Klink
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Fire News, June/July 2021, Page 37
Page 38, Fire News, June/July 2021
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NYSAFC RETURNS TO SYRACUSE FOR THE 115TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE & FIRE 2021 EXPO The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs 115th Annual Conference & FIRE 2021 Expo will be held from July 14-17, 2021, at The Oncenter in Syracuse, NY. A full slate of programs and activities are scheduled for fire and EMS personnel. The exhibit area at The Oncenter has been expanded to include the War Memorial Arena, in addition to the Conference Center next door and an outdoor display area. Hundreds of vendors will be participating. Free One Day Tickets for entry to the expo (Thursday to Saturday) are available from exhibitors. NYSAFC’s Hands-On Training program, led by some of the nation's most respected instructors, has been expanded to allow more students to participate. Training will be held from Thursday to Saturday at the Syracuse Fire Department Training Center. Eight diverse courses, most including live fire evolutions, will be delivered. More than 40 classroom-based programs, including eight EMS CEU sessions, will be open to Conference Full Term Registrants from Wednesday - Saturday at The Oncenter in the Ballroom area (lower level). Seating will be limited due to COVID19 safety guidelines and will be available on a first come, first served basis. This year’s lineup of lecturers includes Mike Gagliano, Tim Klett, John Norman, Thomas Richardson, Dennis Rubin, John Salka, and
many more! Dr. David Griffin of the Charleston (SC) Fire Department will deliver the keynote address “In Honor of the Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy” on Thursday at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown. Special courses include NYSAFC Codes Training, where students can earn in-service codes hours, and a free Fire Investigation Training delivered in partnership with OFPC, where participants can earn course credits. Special pre-registration is required for both programs. Other activities include the FIRE 2021 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Friday at a new venue the Carrier Dome on the campus of Syracuse University. All proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Special registration is required. Network with conference attendees from across the country at the FIRE 2021 Block Party, held after show hours on Friday. South Warren Street will be closed in the area of the Marriott Syracuse Downtown for the celebration, featuring live music, food, and beverages. The Annual Conference & FIRE Expo helps support the not-forprofit NYSAFC in its mission to serve fire and EMS personnel across New York state year-round. The most up-to-date information on FIRE 2021 is available at www.nysfirechiefs.com.
SUPER VAC LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE REDESIGN TO SHOWCASE FULL LINE OF VENTILATION EQUIPMENT
Super Vac, one of the leading manufacturers in fire ventilation equipment, has redesigned its website, supervac.com, to better promote its full lineup of ventilation equipment for firefighting and industrial applications. With dual product lines and the largest breadth of ventilation equipment in both industries, this website makes it easier to navigate Super Vac’s offerings. The website is divided into “Firefighting”
and “Industrial” ventilation equipment and offers a number of resources, like fan comparison guide, ventilation duration calculator and fan placement guidance to help departments and companies select the best ventilation equipment for their needs. The site also includes a number of tools for existing customers, including product manuals, technical videos and a new replacement parts store. The new website also puts special emphasis on Super Vac’s popular battery fan lineup, touted in the fire industry for its compatibility with other batteryoperated tools. (Super Vac will soon be expanding this lineup, so watch for more news to come.) Super Vac is the world’s leading manufacturer in the emergency ventilation products. A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac equips crews with a versatile array of only the
toughest solutions, including the industry’s largest lineup of PPV fans, spanning from eight- to 80-inch blades, as well as smoke ejectors, available in 12-, 16-, 20- and 24inch blades. Super Vac also manufactures rescue saws, rehab misters and other necessities, including the patented Smoke BlockAid for smoke mitigation.
