VIRGINIA Aug./Sept. 2022
Volume 3, No. 4
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 3
In this issue... Vehicle Fire Cause of Oak Hill House Fire Fairfax County units were dispatched for a house fire on Cypress Green Lane in the Oak Hill area of Fairfax County. See story on page 11
1 Burned at Rice Distillery Fire Rice Volunteer Fire Department in Prince Edward County was toned-out for a structure fire. See story on page 14
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Residential Fire Displaces 1 Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to a residential structure fire in the 100 block of Woodrow Avenue.
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Quick Stop on Holman Mill Rd. Randolph Volunteer Fire Department received a call for a house fire on Holman Mill Road. See story on page 24
Fire on the Spirit of Norfolk Norfolk Fire Rescue, along with multiple agencies and jurisdictions worked together to battle a fire on the Spirit of See story on page 28 Norfolk.
Chase City Cadet Handles House Fire Chase City Volunteer Fire Department Cadet member Connor Whitten noticed smoke and fire coming from his grandparent’s home. See story on page 41
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Looking Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 31 & 32 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 38 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 40 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 40
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Page 4, Fire News, August/September 2022
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Where Does Experience Come From? I became a firefighter in 1992. As a probationary firefighter and for the next few years, I constantly found myself challenged to be the best at what I was doing. After a few months, I felt like a seasoned firefighter. Fortunately, one or two of the old-timers kept me in line and made sure my ego wasn't going to get me in trouble. Searching for a theme for this month’s Fire News editorial, I gave thought to my career as I now start my 30th year in the fire service. One of the thoughts that came to mind was the summer of 1995. Throughout that summer, Long Island had an unusual amount of brush fires. Upon our return to the firehouse, one of our senior members always asked how the fire went. It seemed that every time he asked about the fire, the flames were hotter, and the size of the fire increased exponentially. Fast forward to July 2022. Last week my department battled a fatal fire that challenged our members. I know everyone can look back and recall a fire that not only challenged your skills, but also left a scar on your memory. The memory of a fatal fire doesn't go away. You are left with a haunting mark that will always come back to you in some way. Kudos to
my department for making sure our members understood that they did their best to save life and property. I applaud the members of my department who did their best to save the victims of this fire. Now, back to 1995. The Long Island Wildfires of August 1995 started in July of 1995. Yes, throughout the summer of 1995, brush fires were breaking out throughout Terryville, Rocky Point and eventually moved south to the Long Island Pine Barrens. As a firefighter, what goes through your mind as you are responding to a fire and see a dark violent cloud of smoke in the direction that you are traveling? Responding to my first major wildfire, I had no idea what to expect. Thankfully, the crew of experienced firefighters knew what we were in for that day and kept a watchful eye out for one another as the flames exploded around us. I believe 12 departments worked feverishly to bring the blaze under control. Unfortunately, due to the hot and dry conditions, the flames seem to pop out all over Long Island and eventually led to the Long Island Wildfire of 1995. This fire burned approximately 5000 acres. I urge all new firefighters to research this fire. Ask yourself would you be ready to go to work
to bring a major wildfire under control? Keep in mind that every call is a learning experience. Drills help us direct our thoughts and prepare you for dealing with a thought process to battle fires that may cross your path. Experience is what is needed to safely get you through a tough situation. I recommend that on nights you are sitting at the firehouse, take a moment to share some of the difficult fires you have had with your newer members. Talk about the scenario so that your members are aware of how they can stay safe during difficult calls. Be prepared for the return of the unexpected call. -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Cover Story
Fully Involved on Arrival
Stanley Fire Chief Terry A. Pettit reported that the Stanley Fire Department responded to a structure fire involving a house at 0341 on April 20, 2022, on Little Roundhead Drive. The house was set in a wooded area about one-mile south of Stanley and had been abandoned for several years. Chief Pettit stated that the wood frame two-story house was fully ablaze when firefighters arrived. Chief Pettit explained that firefighters had to stretch over 1,800 feet of hose for water supply, as the road leading to the home was too nar-
row for tankers. Damage was estimated at $200,000 and the home was considered a total loss. Chief Pettit reported that six units from the Stanley Fire Department and 24 members responded to the blaze and were on the scene for about four hours. Page County EMS also responded, and no injuries were reported. The Luray Fire Department stood by the Stanley station with an engine to answer other calls. - Submitted by Terry Pettit
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 11
Vehicle Fire Cause of Oak Hill House Fire On June 30, 2022, at 2039, Fairfax County units were dispatched for a house fire in the 2400 block of Cypress Green Lane in the Oak Hill area of Fairfax County. Units arrived to a twostory, single-family home with heavy fire visible from the garage. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the fire. Three occupants were home at the time and two were working on an SUV in the garage. They were trying to clean the intake manifold when the vehicle caught fire. The two occupants tried to extinguish the fire with fire extinguishers but were unsuccessful. Red Cross assistance was offered and declined. Damages as a result of the fire were approximately $11,500 for the vehicle and $85,000 for the home. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Portsmouth House Fire Recently, Portsmouth Emergency Communications was alerted to a fire in the area of Portsmouth Boulevard and Columbus Street. Crews from Portsmouth and Navy Region Mid Atlantic arrived to find a two-story vacant home, heavily involved. Crews made an exterior attack but were hindered by live power lines falling on the ground. Aerial and ground master streams were utilized to get the blaze under control. - Photo courtesy of Portsmouth FR
Page 12, Fire News, August/September 2022
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4 Displaced by Chesterfield Fire On July 4, 2022, at 2357, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to the 15500 block of Twisted Cedar Court for a structure fire. Engine 207 arrived to find a two-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling, with heavy fire showing from the bravo side of the structure. Engine 207 began an aggressive fire attack. When Engine 207 made entry, they found heavy fire throughout the attic. Crews began to get a good knock on the fire and the incident was able to be placed under control at 0047. The cause of the fire was improperly discarded fireworks. Two adults and two children were displaced and are being assisted by family and friends. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
Three Notch Road Truck Fire On July 5, 2022, at 0300, Louisa County Fire Rescue responded to a vehicle fire on Three Notch Road. - Photo courtesy of Louisa County FR
Commercial Structure Fire in Vinton
Roanoke County Fire and Rescue responded at 0154, July 2, 2022, to the intersection of East Lee Avenue and South Pollard, in the Town of Vinton, for a commercial structure fire. Crews from Station 2 (Vinton) found heavy smoke and fire showing from the first floor of a two-story building. The fire ultimately damaged four buildings. There were apartments in two of the structures and eight adults from four apartments were displaced. The roof collapsed on the fire building and a collapse zone was established. The 1930s-era building was not structurally sound and a contractor safely demolished the building allowing fire crews to completely extinguish the fire. Another building also suffered a roof collapse and was a total loss. - Submitted by Brian Clingenpeel
6 Displaced by Mill Pond Ct. Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 1000 block of Mill Pond Court for a residential fire. Emergency Communications dispatched the incident at 0120. Engine 3, Ladder 3, and Medic 3 arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear and roof of a two-story residential structure. Crews performed an aggressive interior attack while the ladder and rescue companies performed a search. Crews were able to rescue three animals from the interior and all occupants were out of the structure upon arrival. There was heavy fire damage to the first and second floor of the structure and the attic. Responding units included Car 1, Battalion 1, Battalion 2, Engine 3, Engine 1, Engine 2, Ladder 3, Rescue 1, Medic 3, EMS1, Safety 1, Rehab 6, and Fire Marshalls 1 and 4. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Page 14, Fire News, August/September 2022
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1 Burned at Rice Distillery Fire On June 12, 2022, the Rice Volunteer Fire Department in Prince Edward County was toned-out for a structure fire. Dispatch received further info that it was the Sandy River Distillery on Monroe Church Road, and that one person was burned. Rice’s Chief Wes Reams requested two more departments and requested Air-Med flight, weather permitting. Two ambulances from Prince Edward responded. Farmville and Meherrin responded for manpower. Rice was able to contain the fire to the distillery, stopping it from extending to the tasting room. Crews had the fire under-control in a little more than an hour. Prince Edward Unit 14 attended the burn victim who was blown out of the building on the D side and had second-degree burns to his back and legs and was transported to VCU Medical Center in Richmond. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
Excavator Fire Snuffed Recently, Company 7 was dispatched to the 400-block of Craig Mill Road for a report of a excavator on fire. Chief 7 and Engine 72 arrived on scene to find an excavator with heavy fire and smoke showing. Crews from E72 immediately stretched a front bumper line and began attacking the fire with Class B foam. Additional units on scene included Tanker 75 and Engine 73. - Submitted by Zach Currin
Route 211 Structure Fire On June 24, 2022, at approximately 1330, Little Fork and surrounding stations were dispatched for a structure fire off Route 211 near the Fauquier County border. The initial report was smoke coming from the walls of a residential structure. Little Fork and Amissville arrived to smoke showing from every side of the house. All of the occupants were reported out. Little Fork and Amissville combined their crews and pulled a handline to the rear of the structure, where there was a basement garage located under the firstfloor kitchen area with fire. The crew performed a quick knockdown. Warrenton stretched a line through the front door to check for extension. A unit from Orleans assisted with overhaul. Due to a quick, aggressive attack major damage was limited to the garage and kitchen area. - Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR
Blackrock Lodge Fully Involved on Arrival
The Stanley Fire Department responded for a structure fire at 0248 on April 18, 2022, in the Big Meadows area located on the Skyline Drive. Chief Terry A. Pettit said that upon arrival firefighters found the 10-bedroom Blackrock Lodge fully involved along with a pickup, a maintenance building and the brush around the lodge. Crews were hampered by low water pressure and water had to be shuttled. It took nearly two hours to bring the fire under control and units remained on the scene until 1000. A foam unit was brought to the scene from Merck. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Six units from Stanley and 21 firefighters responded and were assisted by tankers from Elkton, Luray and Shenandoah. An engine from Luray, along with crews from the Shenandoah National Park also assisted. Page County EMS and Stanley Rescue also sent units and no injuries were reported. Shenandoah covered Stanley. - Submitted by Terry Pettit
Page 16, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Apartment Fire Held in Norfolk Norfolk B-Shift crews were called into action for a structure fire on Front Street. Units were dispatched to The Roebuck apartment complex and, on arrival, saw nothing from the exterior. Upon making entry to the fourth floor, they had smoke coming from an apartment. Engine 06, E01, E07, E08, L01, L07, R01, M07, BC01, BC02 and the FM Group responded and crews quickly forced entry. With their attack, along with the assistance of the sprinkler system activation, they were able to extinguish the fire and prevent any extension to adjacent apartments. They also rescued a dog from the apartment, who made quick friends with crews at the scene. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR
Nice Stop by Galax Galax Fire Department responded for a structure fire on South Main Street. Arriving units found a single-wide mobile home with floor to ceiling smoke. The occupants were outside and reported a dog trapped. Firefighters made entry, quickly found and exited with the dog, then went back to the firefight. Thankfully, the fire was contained to the air handler from the air conditioning unit and quickly extinguished. Four children and two adults were home at the time of the fire. Luckily, mom woke up, alerted the rest and evacuated safely. One occupant was transported by Galax Fire for smoke inhalation and a second was treated at the scene by Galax-Grayson EMS. - Photo courtesy of Galax FD
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 17
Residential Fire Displaces 1
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on May 23, 2022, to a residential structure fire in the 100 block of Woodrow Avenue. Emergency Communications was contacted at 0603 and the first unit arrived on scene at 0610. Crews arrived to a single-story residential structure with heavy smoke and fire showing from the rear. Firefighters made entry and performed an aggressive interior attack. A single occupant had evacuated prior to arrival of fire units. The residence sustained heavy fire, smoke and heat damage. The single occupant was displaced by the fire. The fire was under investigation by the Suffolk Department of Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office. Responding units included Battalion 1, Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 4, EMS 1, Ladder 6, Medic 3, Rescue 1, Reserve Rescue 6, Safety 1, Fire Marshal 1, Fire Marshal 7. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Page 18, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Malfunction in Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Cause of Townhouse Fire On June 18, 2022, at approximately 0936, units were dispatched for a reported townhouse fire in the 13000 block of Rose Petal Circle in the Frying Pan area of Fairfax County. Units arrived to a three-story, middle unit townhouse with fire visible from the third floor. Crews were able to quickly bring the fire under control. Fire was mostly contained to the third floor with minor extension into the attic. Two dogs were rescued. The fire was discovered by neighbors who observed fire coming from the third-floor window. Smoke alarms were present and activated, according to witness statements. Fire investigators determined the fire was accidental in nature and started in a third-floor bedroom. The cause of the fire was a malfunction involving a charging, lithium-ion battery pack. Two occupants were displaced because of the fire. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
3 Displaced in Norfolk Trailer Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 1160 block of Nansemond Parkway, the Magnolia Lake Mobile Home Park, for a reported residential trailer on fire. Emergency Communications dispatched the incident at 0127. Engine 1 arrived to heavy fire and smoke showing from the singlewide trailer. An aggressive interior attack and search of the trailer occurred as no one could identify if the residents of the trailer had exited prior to arrival of the firefighters. Engine 1’s crew attacked the fire while Rescue 1’s crew performed a primary search of the interior of the home. There was heavy fire and smoke damage to the entire mobile home. Three adult and several animals were displaced and the American Red Cross assisted them. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Hanover Handles Large Brush Fire Hanover Fire-EMS crews responded to a large brush fire in the 8200 block of Little Florida Road in the county’s east end. Units arrived to find a fast-moving brush fire that was approximately five acres in size. The fire involved two barns and crews requested assistance from the Virginia Department of Forestry for a dozer unit to help control the fire. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County FR
Richmond High Rise Roof Fire Recently, Richmond Fire Department responded to the 900 block of East Main Street for a reported structure fire. Fire crews arrived to find a 12-story highrise structure with heavy smoke showing. Crews then made access to the roof to determine they were working with heavy fire conditions throughout the roof and a second alarm was struck. Crews determined that the fire had quickly spread from the roof to the 12th floor. Command then declared a third alarm. As this structure was under renovation, crews dealt with FDIs out of service, SP risers cut off, lateral pipes leading to nowhere, and closed valves. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 19
Page 20, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Looking Back Hanover 2021 Multiple crews responded to a structure fire in August 2021, shortly after 1800 in the Mechanicsville area. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County FR
Norfolk - 2021 B shift crews from the 2nd and 3rd Battalions were called back to Philpotts Road in September 2022, just after 2300, for a structure just fire. On arrival they found smoke and flames visible and began an immediate exterior attack. There were no injuries, and no occupants were displaced from this fire. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 21
Louisa County Structure Fire Louisa County crews along with area mutual-aid operated at the scene of a structure fire on Carrs Bridge Road. - Photo courtesy of Louisa County FR
4 FFs Injured in Tappahannock Fire On July 15, 2022, the Tappahannock Fire Department responded to the 200 block of Prince Street for a structure fire. Callers reported smoke inside a furniture store, which was open to the public at the time. Fire crews arrived to find smoke showing from multiple buildings on the block and realized they were dealing with a major blaze. Mutual aid was requested and seven departments from all local jurisdictions and across the state. Crews soon switched to defensive mode, as the fire was quickly spreading, engulfing an entire city block. Crews pulled water from multiple hydrants and additional water from the river. Several 500-gallon tanks of propane exploded. Four firefighters were transported to VCU Medical Center due to heat exhaustion. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
Page 24, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Bathroom Fan Starts House Fire Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Pony Cart Drive around 2200 on July 14, 2022, for a structure fire. The residents were alerted of a fire by smoke detectors and saw smoke coming from the ceiling. Truck 209 arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling. Crews began an aggressive attack on the fire from the interior. Crews also worked on thoroughly searching the house. Crews were able to get a fast knockdown on the fire, and the incident was marked under control. The Chesterfield Fire and EMS Fire Marshall’s Office believes the fire started from a bathroom fan. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
3-Alarm Commercial Fire On July 22, 2022, at 0526, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the Moore Avenue Industrial Area, for a three-alarm warehouse fire. Emergency Communications dispatched the incident at 0526. Battalion 1 arrived to find heavy fire and smoke showing from the roof of the warehouse with warehouses on both sides of the fire warehouse involved and a 500-gallon propane tank exposed. Battalion 1 requested a second alarm due to the size of the building and the amount of fire. While crews attacked the fire from the interior of the exposure warehouses, ladder crews worked the fire from above. Due to the heat and humidity, and the long work cycles, crew rotation and rehabilitation was being performed. Three-alarms were finally requested. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Peanut Trailer Fire On June 13, 2022, the Woodstock Fire Department responded to a trailer fire. First arriving units found a road trailer containing processed peanuts with fire showing. Units from Woodstock, Edinburg, Toms Brook and Shenandoah County spent several hours battling the deep-seated blaze. A tanker shuttle was utilized and extra crews required due to high ambient heat conditions. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Quick Stop on Holman Mill Rd. Recently, Randolph Volunteer Fire Department received a call for a house fire on Holman Mill Road. Everyone was out of the house and the owner was using a garden hose outside trying to stop the fire. Cumberland and Farmville were called to assist. The fire was quickly extinguished. - Submitted by Dan Pempel
Page 26, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Truck Fire on I-66 Fairfax County units worked a truck fire on Interstate-66 westbound just prior to Route 28. No injuries were reported. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Richmond Brush Fire Under the Bridge Recently, Richmond Fire Department responded to the 500 block of Tredegar Street for a reported brush fire. Engine 6’s crew quickly arrived on scene and walked across the foot bridge to where the call was from. Engine 6 soon got on location and advised to all units there was a brush fire underneath the Potter Field Bridge. Engine 6’s officer advised Battalion Chief 3 he believed the only safe way to put the fire out would be to put boats in the water and requested Boats 1 and 2 to the scene. Fire crews then lowered tools from the bridge down to the water rescue crews to extinguish the fire. Fire crews were on scene for about two and a half hours. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
Galax Brush Fire Galax Fire Department was toned out for a brush fire at the intersection of Blackstone and Iron Ridge Roads. Arriving units found a rapidly expanding fire. Brush 14 pulled a line and held the fire while later arriving units cut a containment line around the burn. All units cleared in 30 minutes. - Photo courtesy of Galax FD
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 27
Suffolk Fire & Rescue Respond to Residential Structure Fire Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to a residential structure fire on June 30, 2022, in the 100 block of Castle Court. Battalion Chief Steven Johnson advised that heavy fire was observed from the rear and roof of the single-story residence. A defensive operation occurred to protect nearby dwellings. Two people were at home at the time of the fire and were able to get out safely. One occupant was evaluated and released by paramedics. The occupants were displaced from the home and were working with the American Red Cross. Responding units included B1, B2, B3, E1, E3, E5, E6, E7, E9, FM7, L3, M10, M3, M6, R1, REHAB6, SF1. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
15 Displaced by Portsmouth Blaze At approximately 0137 on April 7, 2022, Portsmouth Emergency Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting an apartment fire on the 100 block of Dahlgren Avenue in the Cradock section of the city. Portsmouth Fire Rescue, Chesapeake Fire, and Navy Region Fire were dispatched to the fire. Firefighters arrived to a two-story, eight-unit multi-family structure with heavy fire and smoke emitting from the second floor. Crews made an aggressive attack on the fire. The large volume of fire heavily damaged the structure and burned through the roof. The fire displaced 13 adults and two children, and Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced occupants. Command deemed the fire under control just around 0330. The cause of the fire was investigated by the Portsmouth Fire Marshal’s Office and ruled accidental in nature. - Photo courtesy of Portsmouth FR
Page 28, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Fire on the Spirit of Norfolk
Norfolk Fire Rescue, along with multiple agencies and jurisdictions worked together to battle a fire on the Spirit of Norfolk. After the truly amazing and heroic efforts of the crew aboard the Spirit to safely evacuate all passengers on the Victory Rover, the ship was then moved to Pier 4 at Naval Station-Norfolk. Throughout the day, a unified command took several different approaches to battling the blaze. However, because water vessels present so many additional accessibility challenges, the fight continued through the night. Naval Station-Norfolk, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, United States
Coast Guard, Virginia Port, Hampton Fire/Rescue, Newport News Fire Department, Portsmouth Fire Rescue and Emergency Services, and the Chesapeake Fire Department contributed to the efforts. Though the devastation is immense for the iconic Spirit of Norfolk cruise ship, there is still much to be thankful for in this incident. All 108 passengers and staff were quickly and safely evacuated, and there were no injuries sustained to any crew members working the incident. - Photos courtesy of Norfolk FR
Page 30, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Don’t Know Why … Units from Albemarle County Fire Rescue and Albemarle County Police Department responded to a submerged vehicle near Greenbrier and Hillsdale Drives. There were no reported injuries. The cause of the vehicle being in the water was unknown. - Photo courtesy of Albemarle County FR
Henrico 2-Car MVA with Extrication Henrico Fire units responded to Oakleys Lane and Williamsburg Road for an MVA with entrapment. Truck 306 quickly arrived on scene to find a two-vehicle accident, one of the vehicles being a Henrico Police vehicle. One green patient was found trapped tapped in their vehicle. Fire crews immediately began a simple extrication process and the patient was soon removed from their vehicle. An additional medic was requested to the scene for two green patients who were transported to a local hospital in unknown condition. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
Apparatus Hit at MVA on I-85 On May 15, 2022, Company 7 and SSRS were dispatched to a two-vehicle MVA on southbound Interstate-85 at the 1 milemarker. Chief 7 arrived and determined the crash was actually on the northbound side. While crews were working, a sedan struck the Command Truck first and proceeded towards first responders before crashing into the back of Engine 72. No first responders were struck, injured nor killed as a result of the secondary crash. Crews determined there were seven patients requiring medical attention and transport. The driver of the sedan that struck the fire apparatus was entrapped and extrication began immediately. The injured were transported via ground transport by Southside Rescue, Warren County EMS, and Boydton Life Station to VCU-CMH in South Hill Virginia. - Submitted by Zach Currin
Fast Extrication on I-85 MVA
Recently, Company 7 was dispatched into Brunswick County for a reported MVA on Interstate 85 at the 23 milemarker southbound. While still en route, the incident was upgraded to an entrapment and Southside Rescue Squad was added to the assignment for ALS. Chief 7 arrived to a single vehicle on its side, very unstable, with one occupant trapped. Engine 72 (with five) arrived and began setting up Paratech stabilization equipment and Holmatro rescue tools and crews began cutting the many pillars to be able to peel back the roof to gain access to the patient, who was successfully extricated in approximately 14 minutes. On scene agencies included Alberta Fire and EMS, South Hill VFD, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Southside Rescue Squad, and Virginia State Police. Company 7 units on scene included Chief 7, Engine 72, Truck 7 and Unit 79. - Submitted by Zach Currin
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Marine Firefighting School Draws a Crowd
The Port of Virginia and the Regional Maritime Incident Response Team Sponsored the 30th Annual Hampton Roads Marine Firefighting School. The week-long class had 117 students from local fire departments from around the country plus several international students. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 31
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Training for All Contingencies Albemarle County Fire Rescue’s Technical Rescue Team (TRT) practiced a scenario where their trusty mannequin had a medical emergency while climbing some stage rigging and was unconscious and stuck. The TRT worked through the scenario and discussed strategies and options afterwards. ACFR’s TRT provides services for complex rescue situations that require an advanced level of training. Response types include high- and low-angle rescues, light and heavy vehicle extrication, straight wall trench collapse, confined space rescue and machinery rescue. - Photo courtesy of Albemarle County FR
Ivor, Wakefield FDs Train Ivor and Wakefield fire departments put in work with some extrication training. - Photo courtesy of Ivor FD
Woodstock Trains May 26, 2022, Woodstock Fire Department ground ladder training conducted at the Shenandoah County Training Grounds. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Getting to FF II On June 18, 2022, students from across southern Virginia participated in their Virginia Department of Fire Programs Firefighter II (FF2) Structure Fire Evaluation, AKA “Live Burn.” This was only the first step in completing their FF2 course; next the students will have to complete practical scenarios set up by the state and then complete a written examination to finally earn the title of Firefighter II. Of the many students who participated, five volunteers from our agency are enrolled in this course. These students went through rigorous amounts of work and conducted themselves very well. We’d like to thank the team of instructors and other support personnel who made the entire day possible. We’d also like to thank the South Hill VFD Auxiliary for providing students and instructors with a delicious and healthy lunch. Huge thanks go out to Lawrenceville VFD for providing apparatus and also a huge thanks to Southside Rescue for being on site and assisting. We’d also like to thank @kcmediaproductions for being on site and snapping photos of the day’s events. - Submitted by Zach Currin
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 33
AFD Recognized for Cardiac Save Improvments
The Alexandria Fire Department (AFD) has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures to treat patients who suffer severe heart attacks. Since 2014, the first
year of the Mission Lifeline EMS Award program, AFD has been recognized at the highest level for EMS agencies. - Photo courtesy of Alexandria FD
Page 34, Fire News, August/September 2022
Dept. of Fire Honors 4 of the Fallen
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs hosted the 25th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters and Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service on June 4, 2022, at Richmond Raceway. The service honored four fallen firefighters: Battalion Chief Lawrence Phipps, Sr., of Hanover Fire and EMS; Captain Lyndell Woods of Fort Lewis Volunteer Fire Department; Captain Sean Land of Virginia Beach Fire Department; and Firefighter Todd Landreth of Norfolk Fire Department; for their service to the Commonwealth. Each honoree served for more than 20 years. The ceremony included performances by the Virginia Public Safety Pipes and Drums, a presentation of colors from Honor Guard members across the Commonwealth and a fire and EMS apparatus display. VFCA President John Prillaman delivered the keynote address. State flags, flown above the Virginia State Capitol, were presented to the families by Deputy Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Swann. - Submitted by William Merritt
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 35
Albemarle Crew Completes “The Murph”
Albemarle County crews completed “The Murph,” an annual Memorial Day workout to honor fallen SEAL Lieutenant Michael Murphy. Lt Murphy was killed in battle, in Afghanistan in 2005. - Photos courtesy of Albemarle County FR
Page 36, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Fire News Donates $50,000 to Charities
In May, Fire News held a charitable awards event donating a total of $50,000 to five fire-EMS-related charities. The commitment to donate the funds was made by Fire News publisher Frank C. Trotta when the Fire News 9/11 20th Anniversary Issue was released last fall. Publisher Frank C. Trotta and Chief Operating Officer Tim Edwards presented $10,000 checks to the charities, noting that the, “Five charities continue to contribute in a positive way to families affected by the devasting effects of 9/11.” The charities chosen work on a national basis include: The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Foundation, The Ray Pfeifer Foundation, Firefighter Cancer Support Network - NY Chapter and The FealGood Foundation.
Close to 200 people attended including chiefs, commisioners and members from many departments, state and local government officials and others. It was highlighted by the Ceremonial Color Guard provided by the Fire Chiefs Council of Suffolk County and former FDNY Chief of Department Tom Richardson as the key note speaker. “I’d like to thank the Fire News editorial and sales staff for their roundthe-clock work producing the issue, our photographers who donated their images and our advertisers who supported the issue,” said Trotta. Thank you to the South County Ambulance Company for generously providing their facilities, hospitality and to all of their members who volunteered their time to help. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone & Bryan Lopez
Push Back for Ladder 11 Recently, Suffolk Fire and Rescue pushed their all-new Ladder 11 into the bay at Station 5. Suffolk Fire and Rescue is proud to have this incredible resource to help protect and serve the citizens of Suffolk. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Hanover Public Safety Day Hanover County Engine and Medic 406 enjoyed interacting with students from Washington Henry Elementary School for their Public Safety Day recently. Students had great questions and enjoyed learning about the exciting opportunities that being a firefighter can offer. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County FR
Page 38, Fire News, August/September 2022
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SOUTHEASTERN SPECIALTY VEHICLES NAMED LOCAL DEALER OF MARION BODY WORKS FIRE & EMERGENCY APPARATUS
Marion Body Works, the first manufacturer of all aluminum fire & emergency apparatus, proudly welcomes Southeastern Specialty Vehicles to their nationwide dealer network. Southeastern Specialty Vehicles, headquartered at 911 Martin Creek Road in Henderson, NC, will oversee sales and service of Marion apparatus in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Since Donald Pleasants founded the company in 1996, Southeastern Specialty Vehicles has remained family owned while continuing to provide quality service to emergency care providers. Their mission is to help local and global customers meet their needs by translating their knowledge and experience into quality emergency medical, rescue and specialty vehicles. The partnership with Marion Body Works will allow them to do exactly that with the addition of Marion’s custom pumpers, rescues, tankers, and aerials. “The ability to expand our offerings with a trusted partner such as Marion Body Works is the best-case scenario for our growing company.” Said Nikki Pleasants-Mullen, CEO and president of
Southeastern Specialty Vehicles. “We are eager to walk alongside Marion as we both enter the next generation of family ownership and remain proudly family operated.” “Donald, Nikki, and their team have a dedication to their craft and, in alignment with Marion values, continue to maintain their commitment to always keep the customer first.” Said Cal Kanowitz, director of sales and marketing at Marion Body Works. “Bringing Southeastern Specialty Vehicles into the fold ensures that even the mountains of the Carolinas and beyond will be well protected by fire departments with Marion apparatus in their bays.” Learn more about Marion Body Works fire & emergency apparatus here, www.marionbody.com/fire-emergency and contact Southeastern Specialty Vehicles at ssvsales.com today. Pictured (left to right): Cal Kanowitz, Donald Pleasants, Robert Daugherty, Jim Dunn, Dennis Tingen, Trey Daughtridge and Rob Rosenau.
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Fire News, August/September 2022, Page 39
Woodstock Hosts County CofC
On June 8, 2022, Woodstock Fire Department hosted the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce Leadership program for a tour of the fire station and discussions about emergency services and volunteering in the community. - Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Norfolk Gets New Robot
Norfolk Police and Fire Bomb Squad has placed a new robotic platform in service after 16 years. This new robot, the AeroVironment Telemax EVO Hybrid, complements their existing robot and allows greater operational capabilities with new technology. In addition to its primary function of examining hazardous devices for the bomb squad, this new robot supports the Special Operations Hazardous Materials Team — it can remotely monitor atmospheres, manipulate valves and take samples. Though initially developed for German nuclear operators in 1988 following the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, the project has evolved and been further expanded into what it has become today. The equipment was provided by the Urban Areas Security Initiative, a program through the Department of Homeland Security. This is an exceptional tool in our toolbox to utilize when keeping our citizens safe. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR
Fairfax Recruiting on Juneteenth Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department recruiters and firefighters attended the Gum Springs Community Day Juneteenth at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, on Fordson Road. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Page 40, Fire News, August/September 2022
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Albemarle County FR Names DC of Community Risk & Resilience Albemarle County is pleased to welcome Emily Pelliccia as Deputy Chief for Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR). “Deputy Chief Pelliccia has a proven track record of success in establishing collaborative relationships with government officials, businesses, and community members that will be vital as our department grows to meet the needs and challenges of the developing community we serve,” said Albemarle County Fire Rescue Chief Dan Eggleston. Pelliccia began her career as a volunteer with the CharlottesvilleAlbemarle Rescue Squad while she was an undergrad at UVA. Additionally, she has 28 years of fire rescue experience with the Charlottesville Fire Department (CFD). During her years with CFD, Pelliccia served at many levels including Firefighter, EMT, Captain, Batt-alion Chief, Deputy Chief, Emergency Manager, Hazmat Technician, SWAT Paramedic, and Health & Wellness Director. “Her extensive experience and knowledge of the AlbemarleCharlottesville area provides an under-
standing of current and emerging issues impacting emergency services and local government in the area,” continued Eggleston. Pelliccia will lead the Community Risk and Resilience (CRR) Section, which includes the Fire Marshal’s Office and Community Engagement. CRR offers a variety of services and programs designed to reduce risks and promote a safe and healthy community. “I have watched the development of ACFR since its inception and have always admired the organization’s ability to grow in tandem with the growth of the community,” said Deputy Chief Pelliccia. “I look forward to working with the members of ACFR as well as all of our community partners to meet the needs of those who live and visit Albemarle County. I'm excited to work collectively to ensure a safe and vibrant future for the entire community.” Pelliccia began employment with ACFR on June 21, 2022. - Photo courtesy of Albemarle County FR
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Drone Use in Burn Control
Did you know the Virginia Department of Forestry uses drones to ignite some prescribed burns? Drones increase accessibility, give better oversight, and make burns safer if a site presents certain challenges. VDOF specialists recently used drones to ignite and burn a 20-acre parcel of young shortleaf pine in the Whitney State Forest. The understory of this parcel was thick with honeysuckle and various other vines and shrubs that made hand ignition nearly impossible. - Photo courtesy Virginia Department of Forestry
Chase City Cadet Handles House Fire
On July 12, 2022, Chase City Volunteer Fire Department Cadet member Connor Whitten was outside while staying with his grandparents when he noticed a large amount of smoke and fire coming from the underside of his grandparent’s home. Connor immediately ran inside and alerted everyone to the fire and helped evacuate everyone including his two younger brothers and infant cousin. He then grabbed a water hose and extinguished a large amount of fire, preventing further spread before the arrival of Engine 34. We commend Connor on his courage, bravery and commitment to helping others! We would also like to thank Boydton Fire Department, Bacon District Fire Department, South Hill Fire Department, CCRS, and CCPD for all of their assistance. - Photo courtesy of Chase City VFD
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Page 42, Fire News, August/September 2022
VA Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network Second Annual Golf Tournament on September 19 The Virginia Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network will hold its annual Golf Tournament on September 19, 2022, at Lee’s Hill Golf Club in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths for Virginia’s firefighters, and it is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety today. So far this year, 22 Virginia firefighters have reached out to us for assistance as they battle through their cancer treatments. Our mission is to assist theses firefighters, EMS providers and their immediate families diagnosed with cancer by providing badge to badge support as well as to provide training and assistance to fire departments at no cost. There’s no better way to honor those we lost and support the firefighters currently fighting occupational cancer. Please support us by being a sponsor or playing in this worthwhile tournament. For information, please contact Steve Weissman at sweissman@fcsn.net. To register a team or sponsor visit our web site at: www.firefightercancersupport.org/event/va-golf-tournament/.
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