Fire Watch (Spring 2006)

Updates From Your Executive Board VOLUME 2

Local 3888 Demographics

A History Of The TFS Pipes & Drums Band Tomorrow’s Fire Fighters Today Publications Agreement No: 41203011

Publications Agreement No: 41203011

FIREHALL SHOWCASE: North Command Station 132

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ISSUE 1 | SPRING 2006

YOU TAKE CARE OF FIRES.

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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TORONTO PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION

VOLUME 2

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ISSUE 1

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SPRING 2006

IN THIS ISSUE 25

29

32

49

35

5.

President’s Message

7.

Secretary Treasurer’s Message

9.

Vice President’s Message

12. Letters to the Editor 14. Demographics and Statistics 19. Chaplain’s Corner 23. Benefits - Are You Getting All That You Are Entitled To?

54

49 (ISSN 1715-5134) is published quarterly by the 39 Commissioners Street, Toronto, ON Canada M5A 1A6 Tel.: 416.466.1167 www.torontofirefighters.org E-mail: firewatch@torontofighters.org is published quarterly by Xentel DM Incorporated on behalf of the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association Scott Marks

25. A History of the TFS Pipes and Drums Band 29. St. Patrick’s Day and Toronto’s Parade 32. Station 132 35. Fire Fighter Survival and Rescue 37. Toronto Fire Fighters FIREPAC 41. Collective Agreement Review 45. Executive Talk

Frank Ramagnano & James Coones Tel.: 416.466.1167 Fax: 416.466.6632 E-mail: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org

49. TFS Venturers – Tomorrow’s Fire Fighters Today

Xentel DM Incorporated

51. 2005 A Year of Many Successes 54. 3888 Recent Happenings

Agreement No: 41203011 General Printers, 1001 Ritson Road South, Oshawa ON L1H 4G5 Members of the GCIU Copyright © 2006 Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association Nancy Philippou Tel.: 416.646.3128 Fax: 416.646.3134 Email: nancyp@xentel.com

Merchant Card Acceptance

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, or otherwise without prior written permission from the publisher.

FIRE WATCH is an official communication tool of the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association.

The Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (TPFFA) does not assume responsibility for statements of fact or opinion made by any contributor. Comments made by individuals may not reflect the official position of the TPFFA. Acceptance and publication of articles, advertisements, products and services does not indicate endorsement of same by the TPFFA, and the TPFFA assumes no responsibility for their accuracy.

33

n

57. WSIB – Modified Duties 61. Sports 62. 2006 Upcoming Events

On The Cover TFS Pipes & Drums Band play in the 2004 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Toronto.

Photo by Paul White

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4

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Importance of Foresight!

L

ike any large organization our most basic challenge is providing our membership with the ongoing issues, events and facts about what is occurring in relationship to your job as a Fire Fighter.

The arenas that your Association works tiate in improvements for the future.

Scott Marks in have changed significantly over the Like any successful organization it is last twenty years. Twenty years ago the not sufficient to rest on past successes sential. It was foresight on the part of Association’s work was based around or wait until problems appear before our provincial and local Associations dealing with the day to day concerns of dealing with them. We have to be conthat lead to the request for these legisthe membership; grievances, benefit isstantly looking to the horizon to devellative changes. sues, arranging social events and genop proposals that will benefit and proIt was also the foresight of the OPFFA erally responding to the questions and tect our membership not just today, but and the TPFFA to recognize that the issues that presented themselves to us in the future. changes needed could not be attained on a daily basis. Once every year or two The Membership Communication solely in the bargaining arena. There the Association would enter contract Committee and the Secretary/Treasurwere governance and legislative changnegotiations with the city and in a mater have been focusing, amongst other es that were required. We had to be acter of days or weeks a settlement would things, on maintaining our database. It tive in the political arena to get those be back to the members. Those were must be accurate for us to develop usechanges. Time and time again I hear the good ole days. ful data from it. It must be accurate if some members complain about the AsThat work is still required. sociation’s involvement politically It constitutes much of the and our constant campaign to work that is conducted by have more and more members THE ASSOCIATION HAS TO BE ABLE TO EXTRAPOLATE your executive board officers.

THE NEEDS OF OUR MEMBERS NOT JUST TODAY, BUT contribute time and money to But, there is a whole new YEARS AHEAD. Firepac. Yet these same members realm of responsibilities that would be the first to ask why, if the Association is involved in we were unsuccessful in achievwhich are paramount to making sure Fire we are to keep the membership ining the necessary changes.

Fighters are dealt with fairly. This realm formed and aware of our ongoing isThe work load involved in negotiatincludes being involved at all levels of sues. They cannot maintain this alone, ing improvements grows each year. If government: municipally, provincially it requires your assistance to update us we are not part of the City Budget proand federally. on your moves both at home and at cess and advocating for a properly fundThe Association has to be able to exwork. ed fire service the resources will not be trapolate the needs of our members not The current success with the OMERS available. Just as importantly, the imjust today, but years ahead. To do this Bill 206 is based on all of these factors pact of an improperly funded fire serwe need to keep track and begin to anacoming together. The Ontario Profesvice will have a direct negative effect lyze the data about our membership. sional Fire Fighters Association (OPFon you in your ability to operate effiThe average age of new hires, retireFA) and the Police Association of Onciently at work and may have repercusment, promotions, etc., become critical tario (PAO) have been requesting sions for your health and safety. to ensuring that the changes we are nechanges to the legislation governing While some members may criticize gotiating will benefit our membership OMERS for over ten years. The reason this type of involvement, without it we in the future. for this request is because we know would not have achieved the improveThe Association has gone to great that the needs of our membership have ments we have. Strangely enough I lengths to maintain an accurate datachanged regarding pensions. Members have never heard criticism leveled at base. This is essential if we are to proare coming into the fire service later the improvements by these same memvide you with necessary and timely and later in life and the ability to negobers. They seem more than willing to communications. It is also essential if tiate accelerated pension accrual rates benefit from the improvements. Simply we are to look at what we need to negoand other pension improvements is esput, if we were only to use the

[

]

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH

5

President’s Message ... Continued from page 5

same tactics that we used twenty years ago you would see the fire service and your wages and benefits significantly impacted. We have profile in the community not just because of the work we do, but because we are out there making sure that the work is acknowledged in the community and at the political level.

I know some members will be thinking, “Oh no, another speech about the

importance of Firepac�. Yes it is. Without that level of involvement we would cease to be able to achieve the improvements we have made. Every successful labour organization has recognized the need to be involved at the political level.

The challenge of the Association is to look ahead, determine the future needs of our members and to act today for the needs of tomorrow. That requires con-

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stant review of the demographics of our membership and involvement in advocating for necessary political action.

Scott Marks President, Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888

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Phone (416) 815-0888 Fax (416) 815-3093

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SECRETARY TREASURERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSAGE

A

s this magazine goes to print we are just completing our first quarter of the 2005/2006 fiscal year.

We have had our 2004/2005 finances audited and it, along with the budget for 2005/2006 was approved at our General Members Meeting in January.

The auditor also reviewed the balance sheet for the Fire Fighters Ball and our Magic Show. The auditor found our finances to be in order and the balance sheets reflect a true record of Local 3888 operations.

Our budget process begins in October as we review what individual committees spent. We also ask each committee chair to submit what they

Rank

MUNICIPALITY

believe their needs will be for the following year. We anticipate increases in operating expenses and set the budget to meet these financial needs.

As you may be aware we set our budget to the set amount of union dues we bring in. This is consistent with most unions our size as the chart on page 8 indicates. Some organizations set their dues after determining what their budget needs will be. There are Pros and Cons to both methods. The IAFF and OPFFA set the dues in relation to what is approved by the members at the gen-

Frank Ramagnano

eral conventions. I believe that depending on the organizations, one method may be better suited then the other.

For example, in relation to the IAFF and OPFFA, a committee is formed that evaluates and debates the draft budget. The participants are all

FF 2004

POL. 2004

FF 2005

POL. 2005

FF 2006

POL. 2006

#1

VAUGHAN

$66,585

$66,854

$69,248

$69,194

$71,672

#2

TORONTO ***

$66,852

$66,852

$69,359

$69,359

$71,509

$71,509

#3

BRAMPTON ***

$67,002

$66,853

$69,293

$69,293

$71,455

$71,441

#4

SUDBURY ***

$66,822

$66,821

$69,161

$69,159

$71,236

#5

HALTON HILLS

$63,722

$66,778

$67,227

$69,282

$70,924

#6

CLARINGTON

$66,094

$66,857

$68,209

$69,197

$70,392

#7

ST. THOMAS

$63,918

$63,004

$68,145

$68,145

$70,189

#8

WHITCHURCH

$63,985

$66,854

$66,570

$69,194

$69,257

#9

ORILLIA

$61,692

$66,910

$65,476

$69,252

$68,190

# 10

TIMMINS

$63,560

$63,390

$65,912

$67,510

$68,054

# 11

GEORGINA

$63,702

$66,854

$64,976

$69,194

$66,275

# 12

ORANGEVILLE

$58,657

$64,631

$62,249

$66,893

$66,059

# 13

WASAGA BEACH

$59,281

$66,910

$61,675

$69,252

$65,458

# 14

INNISFIL

$59,879

$65,804

$62,299

$67,800

$64,816

# 15

SMITHS FALLS

$56,400

$63,116

$59,784

$65,789

$63,425

# 16

ELLIOT LAKE

$60,111

$66,910

$61,704

$69,252

$63,339

# 17

RENFREW

$59,000

$66,910

$60,925

$69,252

$62,950

# 18

GANANOQUE

$53,023

$63,866

$56,266

$65,795

$59,127

# 19

AMHERSTBURG

$55,789

$65,789

$57,184

$68,091

$58,614

# 20

NAPANEE

$50,000

$66,910

$54,010

$69,252

$56,660

$70,189

$70,004

$70,474

*** Receiving Recognition Pay

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH

7

Secretary Treasurerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message ... Continued from page 7

TORONTO UNION DUES CHARGED * Salary 2006 as per Memorandum to be ratified Union

Dues Rate

IAFF Local 3888 (TO Fire)

Flat

Cupe Local 79 (TO Inside)

1.55% Cap $60/pay

Cupe Local 416 (TO Outside)

1.55% No Cap

Cupe Local 1 (Hydro)

1.55% No Cap

Toronto Transit Local 113

Flat

Toronto Police Association

Flat TPAAA Widow/Orphans

union leaders and have a very good understanding of the terms and the process. Thus, setting the dues rate to the budget is a preferred method.

A set method allows for the organization to live within their means. This is the preferred method for an organization that meets frequently. The membership can be brought together fairly quickly as well, so the dues are set lower in the event that if the finances fall short, a special assessment can be requested or the dues adjusted. A cushion

8

the Toronto & York Region Labour Council. The per capita Bi-Wk Bi-Wk Bi-Wk taxes to these organizations $33.23 $33.23 $33.23 are as follows: IAFF - $9.17 per $42.63 $49.02 $55.42 member/month, OPFFA $9.62 per member/month and $42.63 $49.02 $55.42 TYRLC - $0.47 per member/ $42.63 $49.02 $55.42 month.This issue of Fire Watch $34.70 $34.70 $34.70 focuses on some of the infor$43.29 $43.29 $43.29 mation we as an organization $2.94 $2.94 $2.94 review and evaluate on an on$8.91 $8.91 $8.91 going basis. This information is useful for bargaining puris not factored in. It is important to note poses and setting goals and objectives that our union dues are the lowest rate for the association. It is also important allowed by the IAFF, and still be eligito review the services we provide in reble for the special loans and grants they lation to other similar organizations. have available if ever the need arises.

We must ensure that we are providing We pay a per capita tax to both the the necessary services and do it at a International Association of Fire Fightcost that is fair and responsible. ers and the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association. By belonging to these organizations it also makes us auFrank Ramagnano tomatic members of The Canadian LaSecretary - Treasurer, bour Congress and the Ontario FederaToronto Professional Fire Fightersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association tion of Labour. We are also members of I.A.F.F. Local 3888 1st FF

$71 509

Capt.

$82 235

DC

$92 962

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE POSITIVE CHANGES IN TORONTO FIRE APPARATUS/ PORTABLE RADIOS hen the former six Metro Toronto fire departments amalgamated, the collective fleet of apparatus which the new City of Toronto acquired was aging and needed to be replaced. The promise of a zero percent tax increase by the amalgamated politicians at City Hall made it very difficult for Toronto Fire Services to receive the money for their budget to update this aging fleet.

W

As your Vice President it has been my mandate that this situation must be addressed and I have made this a priority for this Association. This is a major safety concern for Local 3888 members as well as the citizens of the City. I am pleased to report that during the last couple of years the status of the fleet has improved.

This is in no small part due to the efforts of your Executive and the accomplishments of your Government Relations/FirePac Committees. This group has been able to work with a Mayor and Council that have been generally supportive of Fire Fighters, in addition to a new Fire Chief and his proactive Fire Service administrative staff.

As a result of this collaboration, there is now a five year plan in place to upgrade our fleet according to a number of recommendations contained in a Fire Underwriters Survey. This survey, completed in 2002, noted that “The apparatus itself was found to be, in many cases over age and obsolete and, in some cases, poorly maintained. We would normally expect fire apparatus to have a maximum of fifteen and preferably twelve years of active service. Many of Toronto’s apparatus exceed this requirement.”

At a Toronto Council presentation, where the intent was to encourage Council to maintain and even upgrade the Fire Department budget, the Association emphasized that one of the

main reasons that our trucks last even this long is due to the ongoing maintenance by the mechanical division and the pride that Fire Fighters take in the apparatus that they must use everyday.

The Underwriters attach a numerical rating to their findings, which range between one and ten, with one being the highest classification and ten denoting no protection at all. Under this system, developed by the Insurance Industry, the City of Toronto was assigned a three pending an ongoing review. If the city received a downgrade to a four there would be the potential for a 12 to 15 percent increase in insurance premiums for commercial buildings in the city.

The five year plan, noted earlier, is designed to win the Toronto Fire Services a better numerical ranking while working towards attaining a number one standing. This will definitely enhance the safety factor for Local 3888 members as well as the Citizens of Toronto in addition to minimizing the consequences of apparatus breakdown when dispatched to an emergency.

The Toronto Fire Service is currently made up of 168 vehicles consisting of 128 front line apparatus and 40 spares.

In 2005, only 78 were less than twelve years old, 35 were between twelve and fifteen years and fifty-five were over fifteen years of age. In 2006 the numbers of aged vehicles should begin to improve. We have been informed that the Department has made arrangements for sixteen new apparatus to be

Ed Kennedy

put into service.

These sixteen vehicles will be made up of ten pumpers, two quints, two brontos, one mini-pump and one air/ light truck. On order for 2007 there are an additional ten pumpers and two more new quints. It is certainly my intention to remain diligent and fully involved in an ongoing political action agenda that will encompass the Fire Department budget process to ensure that we continue to improve the state of our fleet.

Another area where significant progress is being made is in the number of portable radios assigned to each piece of fire apparatus. I can remember not too many years ago when the norm was often one radio per vehicle. We have pointed out to Council that Fire Fighters face a myriad of potential hazards during the performance of their emergency duties. These include visibility problems and building collapse among many others.

Fire Fighters are excluded under the Occupational Health & Safety Act from refusing to accept unsafe work during an emergency for the obvious reason that danger is an accepted risk of our job. However, it is my contention that when we are asked to routinely work in hostile environments that each Fire Fighter be provided with a portable radio. A radio is often our primary lifeline from the interior of a building to the outside and then to Fire Command.

During the past few years we

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH

9

Vice Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message ... Continued from page 9

Age of the Current Fleet APPARATUS

YEAR

CAB & CHASSIS MANUFACTURER

APPARATUS

YEAR

CAB & CHASSIS MANUFACTURER

APPARATUS

YEAR

CAB & CHASSIS MANUFACTURER

111 P

1988

Federal Motors

231 R

2000

Spartan

343 P

2004

Spartan

112 R

1997

Am. La France

231A

2001

Spartan

344 P

1991

Spartan

113 P

1991

Pierce/Lance

232 P

1992

Spartan

345 R

2002

Spartan

113A

1992

Spartan

232 S

2004

Spartan

345A

2002

Spartan

114 A/L

1994

Mack - Box Truck

233 P

1992

Spartan

411 R

1994

E-One

114 P

1994

Spartan

234 P

1993

Spartan

411A

1994

E-One

114 PL

1993

Spartan

235 R

1996

Spartan

412 R

2002

Spartan

10

115 R

1996

Spartan

241 R

2002

Spartan

413 P

1993

Duplex

121 P

1989

White GM

242 P

1993

Spartan

413 R

2002

Spartan

122 R

2002

Spartan

243 R

2000

Spartan

415 P

2002

Spartan

123 P

2002

Spartan

244 P

1993

Spartan

415 PL

1997

E-One

125 P

1988

Mack

244A

1990

E-One

421 A/L

1999

GMC

125A

2002

Spartan

245 P

1994

Spartan

421 R

2001

Spartan

131 P

2004

Spartan

311 P

2004

Spartan

421A

2002

Spartan

131A

2002

Spartan

311A

1985

Mack

422 P

1992

Spartan Gladiator

132 P

1989

Mack

312 P

1998

American La France

423 R

2000

Spartan

133 R

1996

Spartan

312A

2004

Spartan

423A

1990

Mack

133A

1997

Spartan

313 P

1993

Spartan

424 P

1987

Mack

134 R

2000

Spartan

313 S

1992

Spartan

425 R

2002

Spartan

135 P

2004

Spartan

314 P

1998

American La France

426 P

1993

Spartan

1993

Spartan

135A

1999

Spartan Smeal

315 P

426 R

1997

Freightliner

141 P

1997

American La France

315A

2001

Spartan

426A

2004

Spartan

142 P

1992

Pierce/Lance

321 R

2002

Spartan

431 P

1993

Duplex Spartan Gladiator

142A

2001

Spartan

322 P

1995

Spartan

432 P

1992

143 P

1991

Pierce/Lance

322A

2001

Spartan

432 PL

1988

E-One

143 S

2004

Spartan

323 P

1995

Spartan

433 P

1988

Federal Motors

145 P

1990

White GM

324 P

2002

Spartan

433A

1999

Spartan Smeal

146 P

1989

White GM

324A

2004

Spartan

434 R

1998

Am. La France

211 P

1993

Spartan

325 P

1997

Freightliner

435 R

2000

Spartan

212 P

1997

Freightliner

325 R

2000

Spartan

441 R

2001

Spartan

213 P

2004

Spartan

325A

1992

Spartan

441A

2002

Spartan

213A

2001

Spartan

326 R

2000

Spartan

442 P

2004

Spartan

214 R

2000

Spartan

331 P

1998

American La France

443 P

1993

Duplex

215 P

1998

E-One

331 S

1997

Spartan

444 R

1998

Am. La France

215A

1990

E-One

331 T

2005

E-One

445 P

2002

Spartan

222 P

1995

Spartan

332 P

2002

Spartan

445 S

2004

Spartan

222A

1993

Spartan

333 A/L

2004

Freightliner

COM 10

1994

Fleetwood 32

223 P

1994

Spartan

333 P

1998

American La France

COM 30

1992

International

224 P

1990

Spartan

333 T

2005

E-One

Decon 145

1998

224 R

1996

Spartan

334 P

1991

Spartan

F B - 334

1964

225 R

2002

Spartan

335 P

2006

Ford

HAZ 332

2005

Spartan

226 P

1988

Mack

335B P

1997

E-One

HAZ145

1989

Mack

226A

1999

Spartan Smeal

341 R

1997

Volvo

High Rise 332

2005

Spartan

227 P

2002

Spartan

341A

1995

E-One

HMS 234

1991

Ford - Box Truck

231 A/L

1999

GMC

342 P

1986

Mack

HMS 442

1992

Ford F, Super Duty

Vice President’s Message ... Continued from page 10

TFS New Vehicle Status as of February 13, 2006

have seen a number of ‘close calls’ that could have led to a tragedy. Our goal is to have all apparatus issued four portable radios by the end of 2007 and ultimately secure one radio per Fire Fighter before it is mandated due to a ‘Line of Duty’ death investigation.

Once again, an active Government Relations/FirePac committee along with a change in Administration is having a beneficial effect. In 2005, an additional seventy-eight portable radios

were purchased and seventy more are being put into service in both 2006 and 2007. Specialty Trucks, such as the Hazmat and Rescue vehicles, should now each have four radios assigned. I consider it part of my mandate to do all that I can to keep this process moving in a progressive direction.

Health and Safety issues must continue to be front and centre on our union’s agenda. Significant achievements have been made and I remain

optimistic that we will continue to improve in the years ahead.

Ed Kennedy Vice-President, Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888

# of Vehicles

New Truck(s)

Builder Chassis/ Body

Destination

Status

2

Training Pumpers

Spartan/Seagrave

Training

Final inspection scheduled for Feb 1& 2. Delivery soon after.

8

Pumpers

Spartan/Seagrave

146, 342, 121, 426, 111, 433, 226 & 132.

All C & S inspected and delivered. The bodies are in production now. First delivery expected Feb 2006. Will see progress when inspecting Training Pumpers.

2

Additional Pumpers purchased with Provincial funds

Spartan/Seagrave

145, 224

The chassis are now on order, waiting for an inspection date, should be within a month.

1

Tanker

Freightliner/ Dependable

212

Truck is complete and delivered, Training has been done, with follow-up peer training to do. Radio system being installed right now, then to go to the station.

1

Mini Pumper

Ford F550 / Dependable

335

The finished truck is back at Dependable cleaning up some issues, waiting for back-ordered front tires.

2

100’ Rear Mount Aerials

Spartan/Smeal

423 & 325

Just returned from Smeal to inspect the finnished trucks.

Both should be delivered within two weeks after they clean up all items found durring the inspection.

2

Bronto Skylift

E-One

331 & 333

The trucks have been delivered and are being striped and radios installed. Training has been going on for two weeks.

10

Pumpers

Spartan/Seagrave

TBD

Awarded to Seagrave Fire, purchase order and preconstruction meeting pending.

2

Rear Mount Aerials

Spartan/Smeal

TBD

Awarded to Smeal Fire, purchase order and pre-construction meeting pending. Additional four trucks to be ordered for 2006 & 2007. Total of six trucks.

1

Air Light

Freightliner/ Dependable

114

Bid awarded to Dependable, pre-construction meeting held to get the cab and chassis ordered. The remainder of the pre-con to be done soon.

3

Panel Vans

Quartermaster, Info Section, HUSAR

Bid closed Dec 01. Awarded to Donway Ford.

3

Utility Vans

SCBA, Eq, Defib

Bid closed Nov 2. Awarded to Cityview Pontiac Cadilac.

Being delivered this week.

1

Commnad Vehicle

North Comm.

Writing spec

9

Hybrid cars

HQ

Bid closes Dec 01. Awarded to Don Valley Toyota. Delivery expected March / April.

1

3/4 ton 4x4 for HUSAR

HUSAR

Bid closed Nov 17. Awarded to Chrysler.

1

1/2 ton 4x4 pick up for Emerg Planning

Emergency Planning

Writing spec

TBD

District Chief vans

To replace C24

About to submit documents to purchase

Toyota Hylander

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 11

rs e tt e L HOLIDAY MEMORIES FOR THE KIDS On behalf of the Toronto Children’s Breakfast Club and its partners, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Fire Fighters’ Association for your support at our Holidays Christmas party on Thursday, 15th December, 2005.

The party turned out to be the usual success it has been in previous years and I know how much the kids love the Bouncing Machine. Thank you for helping us to put smiles on the faces of the children and creating fun Holiday memories as well as providing as opportunity for them to be part of such a celebration as this.

The Toronto’s Children’s Breakfast Club values the support of the Toronto Fire Fighters Association. I look forward to a continued partnership with you and your team in the coming year.

Happy Holidays and all the best for the new year.

Sincerely, Richard Gosling President Toronto Children’s Breakfast Club

PROUD TO BE A MEMBER I enclosed my payment of IAFF per capita for 2006. I again thank the TPFFA for allowing me to maintain my IAFF membership in this manner.

I should also take this opportunity to thank the TPFFA for including me in the mailing list for the new “Toronto

12

Fire Watch” magazine, which I enjoy reading very much. Local 3888 has produced a superior publication of which all members can be proud.

My sincere best wishes to the executive board and members of Local 3888, IAFF. Sincerely, Charles W. Exton IAFF Retired Active Member

CHRISTMAS DAY HOSPITAL VISIT Thank you for visiting The Scarborough Hospital, General Campus on Christmas morning. Judy shared the highlights of the visit with me when I returned from holidays today.

I understand that we kept you very busy and that you actually paid two trips to Tower Four. Thank you for taking that time to see the children in the clinic too.

On behalf of the children, their families and our staff, I extend best wishes to you and all our fire fighter friends for a happy New Year, and thank you for your continuing support.

Sincerely, Wanda Brown Child Life Specialist The Scarborough Hospital

HEROES BEHIND THE SCENES In presenting the donation cheques to the Salvation Army Christmas

Children’s Fund and the TOMA Burn Foundation I realized that as a fire fighter we receive a great many accolades as fundraisers and in general are looked on as heroes. I’m sure that you have been placed in this position many times and know how this feels. We sometimes forget that the true heroes are the people in the background, who make the donations.

To that end I would like to say that, personally, I greatly appreciate the assistance that you and the Association extended to our chapter in running our recent convention.

With sincere thanks, Norm Clapham President, Ontario Red Knights Motorcycle Club

TRUE MEANING OF BROTHERHOOD I would like to take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of my family for the flowers you sent to my to Mother’s funeral. It was definitely not expected, but it was so much appreciated.

Acts of kindness of that nature reinforce what the brotherhood is all about. Again I can’t thank enough, Local 3888 is a Class Act. Sincerely, Ellard Beaven President Timmins Local 535

FIRE WATCH accepts Letters to the Editor, articles, essays, and photographs from Local 3888 Members, active and retired.

We will also accept fire related submissions from outside authors or photographers.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MAY BE FORWARDED TO: Letter to the Editor FIRE WATCH 39 Commissioners Street Toronto, Ontario Canada M5A 1A6 LETTERS POLICY You may email your letter to: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org FIRE WATCH welcomes letters to the editor to give you – Local 3888 members – an opportunity to express your views, concerns, ideas, or gripes.

We can’t print every letter and in some instances letters will have to be edited due to space limitations.

[

We do not accept attachments. Please paste your letter into the body of your email and use the subject line “Letter to the Editor.”

A BRIDGE TO AFRICA Thank you so much for your article (“TFS Acting Captain Responds to Urgent Need in West Africa”, Winter 2005.) I got a chance to read it and I’m very pleased with the work you did on it.

What started out as an idea to help the fire fighters and the City of Freetown, Sierra Leone in some small way has exploded into a long term venture in sharing technology, used equipment, and friendship for the enrichment, development and advancement of a struggling fire department in a poor African country ravaged by war.

I’m so proud of Chief Stewart and many members of his staff, the many TFS firefighters who have donated material and time to help me, Greg Schultz, for his amazing procurement talents and contacts, and the people, fire departments, and businesses who have donated equipment and supplies who will never meet the people they have helped.

I want to also graciously thank Scott Marks, Frank Ramagnano, and Local 3888 for their support, recognition, and on-going flexibility in helping to make a difference to so many.

God’s blessings, Ron Kyle On behalf of Mercy Ships Canada

]

ARTICLES Before sending a full article submission, we suggest that you forward an outline or suggestion for an article to the Editor.

FIRE WATCH is your magazine, and as such, we will accept articles on any subject related to Local 3888 and the fire community. Subjects could include but are not limited to: health issues, history, sporting events, equipment, training issues, personal essays, etc.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS/QUERIES MAY BE FORWARDED TO: Articles FIRE WATCH 39 Commissioners Street Toronto, Ontario Canada M5A 1A6

[

]

You may email your submission/query to firewatch@torontofirefighters.org We do not accept attachments.

Forward your suggestion in the body of an email and use the subject line “Article submission or query”.

PHOTOGRAPHY Please contact the Editors before forwarding your photographic work for consideration.

FIRE WATCH does not offer payment for submissions.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 13

Age of # Of Members 3888 members each age

14

22

1

23

5

24

7

25

7

26

7

27

15

28

36

29

30

30

34

31

51

32

73

33

70

34

65

35

71

36

96

37

91

38

101

39

106

40

124

41

149

Captain Years of Service

16

# Of Captains per each service year 3

17

13

18

11

19

4

20

30

21

23

22

21

23

14

24

35

25

70

26

51

27

49

133

50

109

23

51

98

52

95

53

95

54

69

55

64

56

50

57

36

58

34

59

1999

107

70

1998

1

65

L-3888 Average Age 44.23

48

53

43

54

39

55

31

56

24

57

13

58

12

59

9

60

4

61

4

62

2

63

1

# Of District Chief per each service year

3

117

124

52

53

35

48

98

99

51

2

149

18

87

2000

51

34

47

45

2001

49

5

147

12

65

50

33

46

44

162

34

10

158

9

91

2002

49

32

45

6

43

50

66

16.21

54

37

42

40

2003

28

31

148

8

2004

48

34

44

41

60

Average Years of Service

30

36

3

50

42

29

152

40

2005

47

51

43

1

27

29

142

37

Start Date # Of Mem. Left TFS

Demo

46

28

42

# Of Age of Captains Captains each age

2 1

Start Date # Of Mem. Average Age When Starting

1997

137

1996

74

1995

134

1994

69

1993

70

1992

71

1991

131

1990

200

1989

187

1988

137

1987

120

27.91

Average Age When Retiring (since 1998) 55.48

Average Years of Service (when retiring) 30.40

1986

75

Captain Average Age

1985

112

51.08

Age of District Chiefs

# Of District Chiefs each age

1984

95

1983

92

1982

59

45

1

1981

88

1

47

2

1980

105

24

2

48

2

1979

73

25

1

49

4

1978

82

26

2

50

1

1977

67

DC Average Age

27

6

52

2

1976

44

56.06

28

2

53

6

1975

55

2

54

2

1974

66

30

6

55

5

1973

27

31

5

56

7

1972

21

31

32

11

57

7

1971

8

60

10

33

10

58

7

1970

11

61

7

34

2

59

12

1969

8

62

7

35

6

60

2

1968

1

63

1

36

6

61

1

1967

1

64

1

39

1

62

2

1966

2

District Chief Years of Service

29

Captain Average Years of Service 25.64

DC Average Years of Service 31.81

Notes: Officers demographics based on operations division.

Based on data as of January1, 2006

ographics

&STATISTICS

Toronto Fire Services Staff Complement By Rank (As of July 2005) Division

Firefighters

Captains

District Chiefs

Fire Prevention/Education Communications Staff Services Info. & Comm. Sys. Mechanical Maintenance Professional Dev. & Training Emergency Planning Health & Safety Operations Sr. Mgmt. Offices TOTAL

98 60 9 4 31

26 9 5

5 4 2

2,172

7 34 4 2 529

2 5 1 1 65

2,374

617

85

Management/ Excluded Staff/ Local 79

Total

3 2 6 12 3 4

132 75 22 16 43 43 5 3 2,790 14 3,143

24 14* 67

Note: Based on approved positions as reflected in the approved organizational chart. *Includes Administrative Assistant at Dr. Foreman’s Office.

Rank Apparatus

Air/Lights Rank Apparatus

Fire Boat Runs

1

LA421

279

2

LA333

273

3

LA231

150

4

LA114

136

TOTAL RUNS

Haz Trucks

SPECIALTY Rank Apparatus 1

FB334

Runs

Rank Apparatus 1

HR332

1

HZ332

783

2

HZ145

704

Command Vehicles

232

Rank Apparatus

High Rise

Runs

Runs

Runs

1

CMD30

145

3,898

2

CMD10

128

N E S W Total

Have you heard? > ÕÃÊ,>` Ê-« ÀÌÃÊ*iÀÃ > ÌÞ Gord StellickÊ >ÃÊÀi>V i`Ê ÃÊ} > Ê> `°°°Êlost 41 lbs!

Sp e c i a l R a te s *

" " " Ê "1 - ÊUÊ ," ,9Ê-/", Ê "1 /Ê ""

- ]Ê -9Ê Ê / 6 ÊUÊ "- ÊÓ ÇÊ*"1 -Ê* ,Ê7

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Bef ore

-

£ÇxxÊ+Õii Ê-Ì°Ê °Ê­ÜiÃÌÊ vÊ7 `L i®

{£È È ä ££È£

Total 72,175 62,875 102,301 66,255 303,606

v ÀÊ ÀiÊ } Ìi > `Êv> i ÀÃ Ãt

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SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 15

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16

Demographics ... Continued from page 15

PUMPERS & RESCUES 2005 APPARATUS RUN TOTALS

Rank

Apparatus

Runs

Rank

Apparatus

Runs

1

P332

4,685

45

P135

2,200

2

P314

4,672

46

P413

2,196

3

R325

4,337

47

R224

2,194

4

P313

3,678

48

P226

2,177

Rank

Apparatus

Runs

R411

2,168

AERIALS

5

P312

3,486

49

1

A142

2,620

6

P325

3,393

50

P323

2,145

2

A312

2,462

7

P142

3,392

51

P433

2,140

3

PL114

2,442

8

R231

3,289

52

P245

2,136

4

A325

2,318

9

P315

3,247

53

P145

2,096

5

A231

1,947

10

R426

3,185

54

R243

2,072

6

T331

1,923

11

P132

3,126

55

P324

2,010

7

A315

1,896

12

P331

3,113

56

P213

2,010

8

T333

1,877

13

P333

3,080

57

P111

1,974

9

A133

1,720

14

P442

3,030

58

P121

1,932

10

A222

1,641

15

P223

2,992

59

P343

1,922

11

A131

1,628

16

R133

2,943

60

P233

1,905

12

A113

1,585

2,879

61

P123

1,875

13

A244

1,482

A213

1,364

17

R112

SQUADS Rank Apparatus

Runs

1

S313

3,297

2

S331

2,925

3

S143

2,487

4

S232

2,338

5

S445

1,876

DISTRICT CHIEFS & PLATOON CHIEFS

18

P114

2,790

62

R435

1,854

14

19

R134

2,782

63

P131

1,831

15

A322

1,358

20

R421

2,747

64

P431

1,800

16

PL415

1,353

21

P344

2,707

65

P342

1,800

17

A426

1,334

Rank

Apparatus

Runs

C33

5,342

22

P232

2,660

66

P334

1,794

18

A441

1,315

1

23

R341

2,647

67

R444

1,727

19

A125

1,294

2

C31

4,760

2,613

68

P432

1,724

1,267

3

C13

3,134

C14

2,917

24

R345

20

PL432

25

P443

2,551

69

P242

1,679

21

A226

1,246

4

26

P222

2,546

70

R321

1,644

22

A421

1,218

5

C32

2,665

C23

2,501

27

P141

2,542

71

R241

1,617

23

A433

1,149

6

28

R413

2,539

72

R326

1,578

24

A311

1,082

7

C34

2,477

R425

1,516

25

A345

1,018

8

C41

2,455

26

A324

1,015

9

C11

2,376

C42

2,280

29

P146

2,518

73

30

P426

2,507

74

P224

1,501

P212

1,495

31

R115

2,496

75

27

A341

1,002

10

32

R441

2,471

76

P422

1,431

28

A135

942

11

C12

2,253

33

R225

2,443

77

P227

1,412

29

A423

893

12

C22

2,099

C44

1,795

34

P445

2,441

78

R434

1,405

30

A411

733

13

35

P322

2,439

79

P125

1,387

31

A215

654

14

C24

1,689

2,438

80

P424

1,350

15

C43

1,542

C21

1,083

36

P143

37

P244

2,433

81

R412

1,242

16

38

P415

2,397

82

R214

1,223

17

C30

117

C40

107

39

R235

2,340

83

P215

1,119

18

40

P113

2,312

84

P211

1,032

19

C20

89

20

C10

71

41

P234

2,308

85

P335

133

42

R423

2,235

86

P346

25

43

P311

2,216

44

R122

2,206

Note: Based on Information provided by TFS

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 17

'%4 9/52 02/0%249 40-% '"45&3 4"7& -9 #/--)33)/. !3 ,/7 !3 3%26).' 4(% 4/2/.4/ 0/,)#% !33/#)!4)/. !.$ 4(%)2 &!-),)%3 3).#%

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EMAIL ASYED TREBNET COM

3ALES 2EPRESENTATIVE -ULTIPLE !WARD 7INNER

CHAPLAINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CORNER SPRING EXPANSION

T

he Toronto Fire Services Chaplaincy has recently expanded from two Chaplains to four: one for each Command.

Dr. Ron Nickle

Chaplain Emeritus Dr. Ron Nickle envisioned this move and facilitated it before his retirement. Even though he was able to know the six-hundred and fifty fire fighters of former North York, he felt that there was no way that he could come to know the more than threethousand members of the amalgamated force.

His concern was the adequate delivery of pastoral care to all that needed or wanted it; four chaplains were imperative and he is very happy to introduce them at this time.

Reverend Hugh Donnelly joined the TFS in 2003 and is associated with Beaches Presbyterian Church. When Dr. Nickle first approached Hugh he was reluctant to commit -- feeling that he knew nothing about fire trucks or Fire Fighters. Dr. Nickle persisted, was successful and Hugh now exudes an air of knowledge and spirituality that has eased many at incident scenes, in fire stations, and at private functions. He credits Dr. Nickle for his guidance and friendship over the last three years. Even

CHAPLAIN EMERITUS Dr. Ron Nickle 66 Flaming Roseway North York, Ontario M2N 5W8 416.590.9390 rnickle@ca.inter.net

TORONTO FIRE SERVICES CONTACT INFO: CHAPLAINCY SERVICE NORTH COMMAND

EAST COMMAND

Rev. Hugh Donnelly 122 Hannaford Street Toronto, Ontario M4E 3H1

Rev. Hugh Donnelly

416.450.8372 (cell) 416.686.6862 hughdonnelly@rogers.com

SOUTH COMMAND

Rev. Ford Hewlett 16 Verclaire Gate Markham, Ontario L3R 9P6

Rev. Ford Hewlett

WEST COMMAND Dr. Barry Parker 227 Bloor Street East Toronto, Ontario M4W 1C8

Rev. Barry Parker

905.477.6789 ford_hewlett@yahoo.com

416.961.8116 (church) 416.271.7540 (cell) 416.928.3575 bparker@stpaulsbloor.org

Rev. Todd Riley 10 Gentian Drive Etobicoke, Ontario M9C 4E9

Rev. Todd Riley

416.626.2619 416.236.8801 (church) triley@sympatico.ca

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 19

20

Chaplain’s Corner ... Continued from page 19

though his primary responsibility is East Command, he advises that the chaplains have agreed to work as a team and will regularly cross command boundaries whenever required.

The Reverend Todd Riley is looking forward to meeting the members of West Command. His door is open to anyone who has any spiritual questions, needs to talk, or requires any other service that the Chaplaincy may be able to fill.

Reverend S. Ford Hewlett comes to us

TE 911 RkABy

Bac r Popula ! d Deman

from Newfoundland, having resided and served in seven different provinces. He brings a host of life experience to North Command; from uniting starry eyed couples in floral gardens to cell visits, and from standing on reservation burial grounds in Saskatchewan and tornadotorn land in North Edmonton to tender baptisms. He hopes that he can be caring, compassionate, and understanding and hopes to build positive relationships with those in his Command.

South Command Chaplain, Dr. Barry Parker, was a Fire Fighter with the Fort McMurray Fire Department before joining the Ministry as an Anglican Pastor.

Dr. Parker explains, “The human spirit is where the purpose of life lives. When life fragments due to trauma and stress it is ultimately the spirit that takes a beating.” He feels it is his role to support, and provide care for the spirit.

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KEVIN McCARTHY – Local 3888 Executive Board Officer

Benefits

ARE YOU GETTING ALL THAT YOU ARE ENTITLED TO?

“Why is it every year that when bargaining issues come up, the discussion is always about how much more will we be paid? Will it be 3% or 3.5%? Sure at the end of the day we have to keep up with our comparables, and when it comes to wages it is obvious that Fire Fighters understand the monetary issues.”

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omething that gets a lot less attention and is equally if not more important is our BENEFITS. Benefits are sometimes overlooked, down played and not totally understood by our membership. The reality is that benefits account for 20% of our overall contract.

What bothers me is, if someone is shorted a couple of dollars on their pay stub or is not paid for an acting day, I guarantee that the member will contact the Association to have it rectified. I can hear it now, “The city is shorting me $40 dollars.” But if that same person doesn’t get covered for $10 dollars to $50 dollars for a prescription or eye glasses because Manulife denies the claim, it gets dropped because it would be too much of a hassle to pursue. That money is still coming out of your pocket. Now say that happens a few times in the year and that raise everyone is talking about is lost on money that could have been recovered provided that our members made a call to the Benefits Committee.

We have negotiated an agreement with the City (Article 16.12 Benefit Monitoring Committee) that allows our members to have a voice, if Manulife denies a claim. The Benefits Monitoring Committee renamed the Benefits Disputes Resolutions Committee is made up representatives from the city’s Benefits Department and the Association Benefits Committee. This committee will work directly with Manulife as well to ensure that the rights and privileges of our members are upheld. The Benefits Disputes Resolution Committee meets every six weeks or earlier as required. These meetings allow us to put a name and face to claims that were previously denied by Manulife and offer up a means to fix the concerns or at least provide a reason for not approving the claim to our member.

Through this process the Association has been able to identify trends such as a high rate of orthotic claims being delayed, reimbursement in some cases were up to two years in arrears. This same issue has raised enough flags that Manulife in consultation with the Benefits Disputes Resolution Committee will be changing the way they deal with Toronto Fire Fighters orthotic claims in the near future.

There was a similar issue that arose early last year revolving around how Manulife paid out our children’s eye wear

claims from one benefit period to the next, and how they applied the negotiated benefit improvements. The concerns were brought forward by a few of our members which resulted in a vast number of our members getting reimbursements, not even knowing that their claim was paid out incorrectly. It just proves the importance of speaking up for your benefit entitlement regardless of how small an issue.

I am not saying that every six weeks we are able to address everyone’s concerns or that if you contact us with a denied claim we will always get it paid. Obviously that is unrealistic.

But by contacting a member of the Benefits Committee we at least can keep a record of that concern and keep a watchful eye on trends developing. That same inquiry could lead to a realization that this benefit, which is not currently in our Collective Agreement, should be considered at the next round of negotiations. The other way this information is used is to set the bar for what improvements need to be made to our present benefits such as increasing a limit or strengthening the wording of our contract language.

This process decreases the amount of grievances which results in claims being paid quicker without a significant cost to the Association. There are various clauses written into our Collective Agreement Many of our members are unaware of the clauses in our Collective Agreement that allow us to get a claim that is not normally compensated for under our benefits plan paid. If we can prove that this medication, device, or piece of equipment: is life sustaining or is medically necessary. Considering the amount of time it takes to make a call to a member of the Benefits Committee, is it not worth having the piece of mind knowing that you are getting all you deserve?

The point that I have been trying to make throughout this entire article is to use the services that are available to you.

The next time someone asks what the percentage our wage is going up, ask instead what improvements have been made to our benefits. Question why your prescription was not paid for in full. Tell us what improvement in benefits would be best to go after. Most importantly, be sure you get all that to which you are entitled.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 23

24

A History of MARLA FRIEBE – Fire Watch Committee Member

The history of the TFS Pipes and Drums Band is a relatively recent one with the concept of a band being born just after amalgamation in 1998. Fire fighter Andrew Cunningham initially introduced the idea anticipating that a Celtic style formal ‘pipe band’ would be a great asset to our organization, especially at official TFS events and ceremonies.

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ost of the world’s larger urban fire departments have a pipes and drums band. Once the initiative was agreed upon, Fire fighter Cunningham distributed flyers throughout all of the fire stations and office locations announcing an intent to form Toronto’s first ever pipe band.

By July of that year, former Fire Chief Alan Speed authorized a 12member band and the first of numerous band practices was held at the Toronto Fire Academy.

Deputy Chief William Stewart was appointed to oversee the band. Although just a small band in the beginning, they have developed a reputation as a solid pipes and drums band with a quality sound.

On August 7th, 1998 the band was able to provide its first official presence, with Captain John Semple piping, at a department funeral for Acting District Chief Steve Black. Their first official parade did not occur until October 1998 in recognition of Fire Prevention Week. Band members, dressed in borrowed kilts and mismatched tartans, marched in downtown Toronto from City Hall to Metro Hall. Later that month the first new pieces of the band’s musical equipment were purchased, including a bass drum and case, a harness and sticks.

On February 23, 1999 the Pipes and Drums Band attended the Toronto Fire Services Rescue & Merit and Long Service Awards Ceremony at Toronto City Hall Council Chambers, another major achievement in the band’s development. At this official event, which was attended by the Honourable Hilary Weston, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Piper John Semple piped a very impressive Vice-Regal Salute solo.

As every good pipe band should have one, the TFS Pipes and Drums Band requested an official tartan late in 1999. Through the combined efforts of the band, senior staff, and the staff of Burnett’s and Struth Kilts, the tartan was designed within just six weeks and represents many different aspects of the Toronto Fire Services through its varied colours: red represents fire, blue represents water and Fire fighters, white represents Senior Officers and the light that finds its way through the

smoke, gold represents Staff Officers and ties in with the gold on our shoulder flash, and the black background represents our fallen comrades. By December 1999 the band had received its approval from Headquarters for the final version of the tartan, which was to be made by Lochcarron of Scotland, and fifteen kilts were ordered.

Eventually the tartan would be registered with the Scottish Tartan Authority as ‘Toronto Fire Services Tartan’ Registration #003044. Official cap badges were to be added to the uniform later on, as well as navy blue patrol jackets.

Always willing to show their support for their brothers and sisters within other emergency services organizations, the Pipes and Drums Band paraded as a part of a mass band for the funeral of Toronto Police Constable Laura Ellis who died in the line of duty in February 2002. Also marching on that day were Toronto Police, Peel Police, York Region Police, O.P.P. and Ottawa Carleton Police.

More accomplishments occurred two years in a row in August 2004 and 2005 at the Canadian National Exhibition where the band won third place in the 83rd Annual Warriors Day Parade, and took ‘The Honourable Lincoln Alexander Pipe Band Award’ for pipe bands with fewer than 20 members. The Warrior’s Day Parade is the longest running veterans’ parade in the free world, and has been a part of the CNE tradition for the past 83 years; our band takes great pride in proudly

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 25

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Pipes and Drums ... Continued from page 25

representing the Toronto Fire Services and our courageous veterans.

In August 2005, the band once again took top honours at a parade in Phelps, New York where they won First Place Pipe Band and Best Overall Band.

Since 1998, the band has participated in 450 engagements, 65 alone in 2005. Of those 65 engagements, 45 were full band performances, and the rest were solos. They have shown their continued support at TFS Line of Duty Death funerals, seminars, graduations, parades, charities, municipal, provincial and federal Fire Fighter commemorations, memorials, Canada Day celebrations, and Highland Games events. Currently the band consists of 24 playing members, most of whom are TFS Staff, although we do have quite a few members from other emergency services organizations as well. In addition, the band includes five Learners. Current members are:

This current year is going to be a busy one with quite a few events already scheduled for the band. Toronto and Rochester, New York will have the opportunity to see and hear the band at their March St. Patrick Day parades, and in addition the band will be present at the following events:

2006 EXECUTIVE MEMBERS: President and Piper â&#x20AC;˘ Jeff Penfound, Pipe Major â&#x20AC;˘ John Semple, Pipe Sergeant â&#x20AC;˘ Donna Bakewell, Drum Major â&#x20AC;˘ David Sheen, Drum Sergeant â&#x20AC;˘ Adrian Pleasants, Treasurer/Quartermaster & Drummer â&#x20AC;˘ Charlene Rathgeb

The TFS Pipes and Drums Band is a fully department sponsored band that takes its responsibilities very seriously. In order to further develop the band, they are always looking for new and enthusiastic members to join their team, and band members are always willing to provide instruction for new pipers and drummers. Every Thursday evening the band meets at 1900 hours at the Toronto Fire Academy.

PIPERS INCLUDE: Jeff David, Ian Robertson, John Cole, Jeremy Kieffer, Bill Shikatani, Bob Post, Michelle Hirtle, Marc Lesley, Doug North, Gary Ford, Graham Stark, Bill Stark, and Brenda Remy.

DRUMMERS INCLUDE: Tony Melozzie, Mike Morrow, Glenn Watters, Dave Archer, Norm Jones, John McCready, Barb Hacking, and Ian Cochrane.

LEARNERS INCLUDE: Adrian Olley, Jason Horner, Jeffery Chan, Mike Griffen, and Chris Bronnell.

March 1 TFS Rescue & Merit Award Ceremony at the Fire Academy April 8 Toronto Rock Lacrosse Game at the ACC April 16 Beaches Easter Parade July 1 Canada Day at Highland Creek August 20 C.N.E. Warrior Day Parade September 9 Canadian Fallen Firefighterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Memorial in Ottawa

If you have a willingness to learn, or if you would like to book the band to perform at your event, please contact them at: torontofire_ pipesanddrums@hotmail.com or visit: www.toronto.ca/fire/pipes/

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SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 27

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Steve Buckingham – Fire Watch Committee Member

St. Patrick ’s Day AND TORONTO’S PARADE St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated throughout the world on March the 17th every year. We celebrate St. Patrick’s life on the anniversary of his death in 460 A.D.

S

t. Patrick was the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Most of what is known of him comes from his two works, the Confessio, a spiritual biography, and his Espitola, a denunciation of British mistreatment of Irish Christians. St. Patrick described himself as a “most humble-minded man, pouring forth a continuous paean of thanks to his maker for having chosen him as the instrument whereby multitudes, who had worshipped idols and unclean things, had become the people of God” St. Patrick is most known for supposedly driving the snakes from Ireland. It is true there are no snakes in Ireland, but there probably never have been. As in many old pagan religions, serpent symbols were common and often worshipped; driving the snakes from Ireland was probably symbolic of putting an end to that pagan practice.

While not the first to bring Christianity to Ireland, it is Patrick who is said to have encountered the Druids at Tara

and to have abolished their pagan rites. The story holds that he converted the warrior chiefs and princes, baptizing them and thousands of their subjects in the “Holly Wells” that still bear his name.

St. Patrick’s Day has come to be associated with everything Irish: anything green and gold, shamrocks and luck. Most importantly, to those who celebrate it’s intended meaning, St. Patrick’s Day is a traditional day for spiritual renewal and offering prayers for missionaries worldwide.

Since the holiday began in Ireland, where it is still a national holiday and religious observance, it is believed that as the Irish spread out around the world, they took with them their history and celebrations.

Irish Culture is rich in its diversity.

This is reflected in the warm hospitality, delicious traditional dishes, brilliant music and beautiful landscape.

The story of Ireland is an ancient tale, older than the pyramids of Egypt and full of more turmoil, upheaval and romance than any daytime drama.

Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Celtic Society The newly formed Celtic Society is devoted to family, community, music and all things Celtic. This non-profit organization aims to financially support our Pipe Band, local charities and provide incentives such as T-shirts and pins for its members.

This all-inclusive Celtic Society celebrates all Celtic societies from Canada, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England. Its membership is open to anyone who would like to celebrate the Celtic culture.

The cost of membership for any active or retired fire fighter is only $20 annually and this includes you and your significant other. Some of the upcoming events they are focusing on are: the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a Robbie Burns Dinner and Dance, potential discount travel to Celtic countries and functions, and other community events throughout the year.

If you would like more information on the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Celtic Society or wish to join, contact: John Poirier @ Stn. # 242 – A Shift, or home: (905) 655-5342

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 29

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30

St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day ... Continued from page 29

The reputation of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friendly Irishâ&#x20AC;? is not a myth and it is quite normal to see a friendly smile. You will always find a hand outstretched with the greeting â&#x20AC;&#x153;How are you?â&#x20AC;? Irish Pubs are legendary and without a doubt the main center for socializing in Ireland especially in the small towns. You can drink there, eat there, dance there, join a singsong or listen to a group of musicians. We see a lot of the Irish Culture in Canada, especially on the East Coast.

In North American cities with a large Irish population, St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Day is a very big deal. Big cities and small towns alike celebrate with parades, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;wearing of the green,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; music, song and dance, Irish food and drink, and activities for the kids such as crafts, colouring and games.

Many North American cities have been hosting annual parades since the early 1800â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. In fact Montrealâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade dates back to 1824. Torontoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade does not have the history of some of its counterparts in other cities dating back only to 1988, but it is one of the largest.

Our Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation has

become a tradition in recent years providing an opportunity to share fellowship amongst itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s members and with the public we serve.

As we go to print the Association has prepared for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade which begins @ 12:00 noon on Sunday, March 19th. The parade route starts at Bloor Street West and St. George, proceeding along Bloor Street, down Yonge Street, across Queen Street West, and finishing at Nathan Phillips Square.

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SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 31

FIRE STATION 132 13 2 Toronto Fire Fighter JON LASIUK

A

t the beginning of the 1950’s the Township of North York found itself in the middle of a building boom.

Stretching from Victoria Park to the Humber river, the 96,000 residents were still only protected by one full-time firehall on Yonge St. This all changed in 1952 with the opening of Fire Hall #2, at 484 Lawrence Av. W., just east of Bathurst St. Originally staffed with a single pumper, the crew was responsible for all calls between Avenue Rd. and the Humber River!

(A volunteer hall in Humber Summit on Weston Rd. provided their only back-up in the far west areas of the Township). A second pumper would be added the following year with the hiring of seven additional men. These apparatus were some of the first in Canada to be equipped with two-way communications, an essential thing given the vast running distances involved. In those early days Station 2’s Fire Fighters often provided (and received) mutual aid with adjoining full-time departments in Forest Hill, York Township, and Toronto. On most calls help was often a long way away to say the least.

The hall was designed by local architects using the very latest designs of the 1950’s, encompassing a two-bay apparatus floor with living space on the second floor above. The NYFD was so happy with this design, it was later used in no less than eight other stations. Over the following decades Station 2’s running area saw tremendous growth and interesting challenges, including, in 1964 Canada’s biggest mall, Yorkdale Mall. The opening of the Spadina Subway in January 1978 brought even more chal-

32

lenges to Station 2’s running area.

A walk through the area around Lawrence and Bathurst and one is quickly struck by the diversity of the area. The station proudly serves the largest Hasidic Jewish community outside of Montreal.

The 1990’s saw the North York Fire Department with several aging stations in need of repair or replacement. One of these was Station 2. More than forty years old, the department decided it was time to replace the station with brand new facilities. A site on a nearby side street was scouted for construction in order to get the new hall away from the traffic congestion at the corner of Lawrence and Bathurst. With the input of neighbourhood residents though, it was decided to rebuild on the same site as the original hall.

Using the original site would require the relocation of apparatus during the construction period.

With no other hall close enough to provide timely coverage, a temporary station was secured in a QuonPhoto: Jon Lasiuk set hut along the north service road of the Baycrest Geriatric Hospital at 3600 Bathurst St., at the foot of Rajah St. Living quarters were in a mobile home-type trailer. P2 moved to their temporary quarters during the first

Photo: Jon Lasiu

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week of October 1998, while P2A moved to Station 16 on Beffort Rd. On July 28th, 1999, TFS began operating out of its new station on Lawrence Av. West. It was only the second entirely new station to be opened by the newly amalgamated department after Station 225 the previous year. The new building, while substantially bigger than its predecessor, blends in well with the surrounding low-rise apartments using subdued colours and some of the yellow brick common with original buildings in the immediate area.

Shortly thereafter, in the whirlwind of change that followed amalgamation, the station number was changed to 132 on November 28th, 2000. A District Chief began operating out of the hall for the first time after being relocated from Station 134. Later, what had been a two-pump hall since 1953 was reduced to a

single pump, with the second rig going to Station 125 to better protect Sunnybrook Hospital.

While its fire hall landscape has changed dramatically in the last few years, the community of North York has gained - with some of the most architecturally interesting, modern fire halls in the city today protecting an area nothing like its rural suburban roots of yesteryear.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 33

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&RESCUE

FIRE FIGHTER

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Toronto Fire Fighters GEOFF BOISSEAU & JOHN MCGILL

In a joint effort between the Toronto Fire Services and Local 3888, a 24-hour Fire Fighter Survival, Rescue and RIT program has been developed to train TFS Fire Fighters to handle possible fire ground emergencies. In the previous two issues we discussed fire ground survival through training (prevention) and self rescue. This issue we will discuss some of the key points in saving your partner or crewmember in a fire ground emergency. This is the third key element in helping to reduce fire ground injuries and line of duty deaths.

A cold hard fact: You cannot save your partner or another crew member if you cannot save yourself.

Much like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, there is a hierarchy of survival needs on the fire ground. None of us go looking for trouble on the fire ground. On every dispatch we try to make decisions that will reduce as many of the dangers we face as possible. Unfortunately, because of the nature of our job, BAD THINGS CAN HAPPEN. Call it Murphy’s Law or just plain bad luck; the fact of the matter is, at any call, on any given day, something unexpected can happen that could jeopardize your partner, crewmember and/or yourself.

If something catastrophic happens and we cannot save ourselves then how can we be expected to save someone else on the fire ground? The answer is simple, we can’t. If we don’t have the necessary skills to save ourselves then we will become part of the fire ground emergency rather than a part of its solution. It is incumbent upon all of us to know when to save ourselves. This will contribute to both our own personal safety and the safety of our crew and other Fire Fighters on the fire ground.

Any Fire Fighter trying to save their partner or crewmember on the fire ground must not lose sight of the most

important factor of any successful fire ground rescue, the concept of self-preservation. We must ensure that we recognize when we are getting ourselves into a situation that is beyond our capabilities. The belief of staying with that downed Fire Fighter until they are rescued may not be the answer. The “I am not going to leave without my partner” way of thinking, although noble, isn’t the best solution. The simple fact that you are staying with a downed Fire Fighter in hazardous conditions will not save them. In fact it will limit the chance of survival for both of you. If you choose to stay until it is too late for you to make a safe exit then the rescue crew that is coming in to save your partner may now be faced with having to save either you or your partner. The rescue crew will take the one they can save the fastest, first. That might be you. If there are not any more rescuers available or the rescuers do not have the resources to manage more than one Fire Fighter in trouble, then serious decisions will have to be made. There are decisions that no Fire Fighter wants to make in their career. Therefore, by remaining with your partner for too long,

you might have jeopardized the situation greatly. If the rescue crew assists you first then your partner will have to wait even longer to be rescued. At this point, it may be too late.

It is very important, to do everything in our power to save another Fire Fighter as long as we recognize our individual limitations first; remain a part of the solution and do not become part of the problem. When it is time to save yourself, you must. You will be more helpful to a rescue crew by telling them where the Fire Fighter is, what the problem is, what you have done to help and what conditions they will encounter. This is more helpful than being another Fire Fighter in distress.

Being Part of the Solution The essential steps to saving your partner or crewmember are: 1. MAYDAY CALL: Call for help; notify Command by way of a MAYDAY call.

The sooner the call goes in, the sooner help will come. If you think they are in trouble, they are in trouble. Call for help, “MAYDAY, MAYDAY,

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 35

Survival & Rescue ... Continued from page 35

MAYDAY.” 2. AIR SUPPLY: Supply emergency air (only if you can); assess the Fire Fighter’s air supply. Ensure that the Fire Fighter’s SCBA is operational and has not experienced some sort of failure or damage before you commence the equalization.

If you can trans-fill, then do so, but make sure you have enough air to exit safely.

3. DEFENDABLE SPACE: Make a defendable space for the Fire Fighter in distress.

4. PROTECTION: If possible protect them with a hose line to prevent fire advancement.

5. RELOCATION: Re-orientate the Fire Fighter if necessary; relocate them to a safer place or a landmark that a rescue crew can be easily directed to.

6. COMMUNICATION: Ensure you up-

36

date command of any changes in the location of the Fire Fighter in distress as well as yourself; this action will expedite the rescue attempt.

7. ESCAPE ROUTE: Prepare for your emergency exit; re-assess your air supply and plan your escape. Remember a secondary exit is any door, window or wall that you can fit through. If possible get to the closest window to draw attention to your location.

8. CONTINUE UPDATING COMMAND: Notify command if you are exiting and what your intended route of travel will be. Constantly update command of your movements and any landmarks you encounter. This will direct the rescue crew to you and that will enable them to locate the other Fire Fighter in distress. If you are unsure of your escape route, notify command by making a MAYDAY call for yourself. It is

important to know how many Fire Fighters are in distress to aid in rescue efforts.

Not Part of the Problem To rescue your partner or crewmember it is essential that the event does not become more complicated than it needs to be. You can only help matters if you do not make them worse. Help as long as it is safe to do so, and then exit. You will be part of the problem if you stay too long.

If you cannot save yourself, you cannot save your partner or crewmember.

If you cannot save your partner or crewmember, you cannot save another Fire Fighter. Do not make the situation worse. Your fire ground survival depends on it. Next issue we will discuss saving another Fire Fighter on the fire ground during fire operations and not making the situation worse.

TORONTO FIRE FIGHTERS

FIREPAC

By RICK BERENZ – GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEMBER, TPFFA, L3888

S

oon after the amalgamation of the six former Locals that now make up Local 3888, it became evident that a strong political presence, at all three levels of Government, was necessary. It was decided to form a Political Action Committee that would enhance and work with the existing government relations efforts of the Local.

The Political Action Committee, known as Toronto FIREPAC, was to develop and maintain an effective political action fund raising program for our Local. The primary objective of Toronto FIREPAC is to effect the outcome of elections by electing candidates that are strongly committed to improving the lives and safety of Fire Fighters and the citizens that we protect.

In order for this to happen, we had to educate and communicate with the members of the TPFFA about the benefits of a greater political involvement and to create an effective organization and structure to coordinate the association’s involvement in election campaigns.

This required a system by which candidates were researched and then recommended based on how strong their respective positions were on Public Safety and Fire Fighter issues. This selection process was assisted by a candidate survey that is specific to the level of Government (Municipal, Provincial or Federal) office they are seeking. The surveys deal with Fire Fighter public safety issues which fall within their jurisdiction.

Beyond the survey, Toronto FIREPAC relied on available past candidate history and a face to face interview to determine Fire Fighter friendly candidates.

Once candidates are selected, an effective strategy is developed in order to best direct our support and public endorsements of the candidate(s). Toronto FIREPAC is nonpartisan and is dedicated to electing candidates who support our issues and to hold them accountable for their votes once in office regardless of any party affiliation that they may have.

In order for Local 3888 to assist selected candidates to get elected, money is required. Money that is donated

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TORONTO FIREPAC IS NON-PARTISAN AND IS DEDICATED TO ELECTING CANDIDATES WHO SUPPORT OUR ISSUES AND TO HOLD THEM ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR VOTES ONCE IN OFFICE REGARDLESS OF ANY PARTY AFFILIATION THAT THEY MAY HAVE.

2005 DONOR LISTING VOLUNTEERS Ashfield, Kevin Bardecki, Chris Beames, Paul Berenz, Rick Brown Mitch Burtenshaw Adrian Coones, James Doherty, Hugh Flindall John Forrest, Sean Halls, Paul Hamilton Ian Hamilton, Keith Kennedy, Ed Kreposter, Alex Lambert, Will Malonowich, Marlon Marks, Scott Marsden, Don McCarthy, Kevin McKee, Bill McKinnon, Mark Morache, James Ogle Mike Peritore, Gerlando Piercey Randy Ramagnano, Frank Ruller, Nick Service Peter Simkus, Vic Snellings Gord Thorne, Ernie Walsh, Damien PLATINUM Algar, Tim Archer, David Ashfield, Kevin Babcock, Dave Bardecki, Chris Barker, John Barret, Don Beames, Paul Beasley, Cedric Beer, Don Bennet, Ron Berenz, Rick Black, Keith Boisseau, Geoff Bray, Ken Brown, Duncan Brown, Mitch Buckingham, Steve Burnett, Andrew Burtenshaw, Adrian Cannon, Mark Chow, Peter Christensen, Gary Clapham, Norm

Clausen, Derek Coones, James Cooney, Bill Cooper, Jack Cossit, Dave Cotter, Eric Cranswick, David Creed, John Dancy, John Dann, Ken Dion, John Doherty, Kevin Downey, Leo Draper, Mike Dunbar Bruce Edgerton, Mike Enslen James Evans, Bill Eyer, John Eyers, Scott Fletcher, Jim Forrest, Sean Giffin, Colin Graba, Dennis Graziano, John Grimwood, Rob Haigh, Kirk Halls, Paul Hals, Dan Hamilton, Ian Hamilton, Keith Harvey, Peter Hastings, Gary Hickson, Duane Hill, Mike Hoefel, Karl Imray, Tom Jones, Jon Kennedy, Ed Kreposter, Alex Lambert, Will Langford, Mike Latour, Mike Lauzis, Alfred LeBlanc Fred OPFFA Lee, Jim IAFF Can Leslie, Ian Leufkens, Bernard Lubinski, Patrick Macina, Paul MacLeod, John McQueen, Ron Maidment, Keith Mair, Kevin Maitland, Bill Malonowich, Marlon Manning, Paul E Manson, Murray Marks, Scott

Marjama, Milda Marsden, Don Mathews, Travis McCarthy, Kevin McCormack, Don McDougall, Dan McEachern, Doug McGrath, Pat McIlmoyle, Tom McKee, William McKinnon, Mark McLean, Andrew McMannus, Patrick Miranda, George Mogavero, Paul Morache, James Motten, Eric Nearing, Mike Neary, John Neely, Michael Nester, Jeff Nicoll, Lawrence Ogle, Mike Olley, Adrian Payne, David Peck, Don Peritore, Gerlando Pett, Andrew Piperidis, Denis Poirier, John Prothman, Andreas Pucciarelli, Paul Ramagnano, Frank Raynard, Gary Reynolds, Neil Rhodes, Bryan Ritchie, Jack Robinson, Dave Robinson, Jonathon Robson, Rob Ruller, Nick Salmon, Tracey Sargeant, Mark Seifried, Paul Sheen, david Sherwood, Brian Simkis, Victor Sinclair, Michael Smith, Randy Snellings, Gord Stairs, Peter Stewart, Blair Storey, Glen Strapko, Mike Strauss, Doug Thorne, Ernie Trazecak, Peter Tuffner, John Turner, Jack

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 37

FIREPAC ... Continued from page 37

Vanderlinden, John Vavra, Anne Walker, Alexander Walker, Alf Walsh, Damien Welch, Bruce Welsh, Steve Wellwood, Sean Werginz, Mathias West, Chuck White, Dean Wilson, Mark Woodbury, John Yuill, Ian GOLD Ahola, Pekka Alston, Dan Anderson, Greg Andrews, Joe Archer, Tim Barrington, Mike Baxter, Dan Bellmore, Ted Berenz, Dave Bills, Mark Blake, John Charlton, Dave Clark, Norman Colavita, Sam Cullen, Liam Cunningham, Paul DiLenardi, Mario Downes, Matthew Downes Ralph Doyle, Maurice Dyer, John Eldon, Richard Ellement, Darrell Farlie, Ryan Falconer, Dave Gabory, Rick Gallo, Rick Gayman, Tim Geekie, Tim George, Chris Gilcrest, Greg Guy, Chuck Hailey, Greg Hall, Shane Hawley, Bill Hickey, Tony Hill, Bill Hough, Frank Hughes, Kevin Jansen, Craig Jessop, John Knaggs, Chris Krigos, Jim Landman, Eric Loibl, Ron Lowes, Barry Luty, Tim MacLaachlan, John McCannel, Ross McCrae, Ian McLean, Ryan McWade, Laura McWhirter, Paul Mommo, Henry Moonlight, Ryan Morgan, Rick Morrison, Colin Noble, John Oscada, Tom Pace, Herc Patterson, Rob

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Plugowsky, Jason Posa, Robert Ptasiuk, Igor Rivard, Robert Robinson, John Roccacalvo, Peter Romard, Ron Rosen Sara Roynon, Dave Shapiera, Kevin Shean, Perry Shepherd, Joseph Silverthorn, James Stauss, David Stroud, Robert Swiderski, Ed Tanner, Colin Temple, Warren Wallace, Tony Weafer, Paula Wilcox, David Woodroy, Brad Wright, John Zammit, John SILVER Allan, Robert Altieri, Roger Ancio, Michael Aspden, Colin Babcock, Doug Baldwin, Drew Barton, Brent Bellamy, Charles Bennett, Joe Bizzel, Eric Black, Brian Blacklaws, Mike Bonser, Ben (in memory) Bradley, Royal Brown, Glen Buckley, Bertram Cairns, Michael Campbell, Colin Cannon, Jim Cannon, Todd Carleton, Shaun Cherun, Derrick Cioci, Mike Clifford, Tony (in memory) Clipperton, Steven Coleman, James Compton, Mark Cote, Steve Crooke, David R Crummey, Jim Daly, Scott Davidson, Robert Dennison, Craig Dies, Robert Dillon, Jim Dixon, Traci Drimmie, John Dzuba, Paul Ellery, Drew Eyers, Jason Fetke, Jim Fitzgerald,Mike Flammia Bruno Fogarty, Brian Foster, Mark Gambier, Steve Garnavos, Tony Gaudet, Paul Gilchrist, Greg Gobin, Joe Goldsworthy, William

Gooch, Steve Guttenberg, Peter Hamilton, David Hanson, Don Harding, Martin Harrison, Colin Hayes, Don Hayes, Peter Hewson, Rob Hickey, Kieron Hiller, Vernon Hislop,Wayne Hulbert, Jeff Irvine, Brian Ivans, Darren Jakoplevic, Goran Kalic,Michael Kassen, Tom Kaufman, Adina Kennedy, Jason King, Mark Koehler, Peter Kular, ted Kwiatkowski, Paul Lakeman, Morris Leslie, Ken Linka, Vic Linn, Bruce Low, Bill MacDonald, Rick Macken, Murray MacMillan, Eric Markham, Dale Markle, George Martyn-Jones, Marc Matheson, Dave Matheson, Mark McCann, Mike McCraken, James McEachern, Cam McKenna, Ryan McKinnon, Neil McRay, Martin Mecozzi, Mario Miles, Jeff Mitchell, Paul Mogford, Steven Montgomery, Dave Morris, Terrence Mullin, David Neary, Peter O’Connell, Dennis Page, Brad Papakonstantinou, Bill Papastratigakis, S Price, Craig Proctor, Gary Quibell, Mike Radonicich, Mike Rainforth, Mike Redwood, Ryan Reeves, Geoff Robertson, Wayne Sabinao, Al Service, Peter Sharpless, Blair Sherwood, Neil Skerratt, Ted Smith, Blair Smith, Rob Snowdy, Paul Sornberger, Chris Sparkes, Terry Speiran, Ian Spratt, Bill Steffler, Greg Steffler, Jonathan

(union dues are NOT used) by our Members to Toronto FIREPAC may be used in one of two principle ways. The greater portion of the funds raised are used for political action during election campaigns through direct campaign contributions or by purchasing tickets to various political fund raising events. Our attendance at these functions allows Fire Fighter representatives to continue building relationships with the various influential decision makers who are in attendance. Secondly funds are required for the day to day operations of the FIREPAC Committee. This covers items such as the incentive packages given to FIREPAC Members, operation of the web site, purchase of materials used at community events in support of friendly elected officials, along with numerous other miscellaneous expenses.

The monetary contribution, from the Membership, is the life blood of the FIREPAC Committee. Without your involvement and contributions the FIREPAC Committee and Local 3888 would not be nearly as effective in ensuring Fire Fighter issues and concerns were properly understood by the decision makers. By working together we can and have made a positive influence by having access to those in power making political decisions that affect your career as a Professional Fire Fighter.

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WITHOUT YOUR INVOLVEMENT AND CONTRIBUTIONS THE FIREPAC COMMITTEE AND LOCAL 3888 WOULD NOT BE NEARLY AS EFFECTIVE IN ENSURING FIRE FIGHTER ISSUES AND CONCERNS WERE PROPERLY UNDERSTOOD BY THE DECISION MAKERS.

THE FOLLOWING HIGHLIGHTS THE 2004 AND 2005 TORONTO FIREPAC YEARS: 1. Over 500 Toronto Fire Fighters became 2004 Toronto FIREPAC Members. This number increased to over 600 in 2005.

2. In 2004 FIREPAC raised over $60,000. In 2005 the amount raised was in excess of $75,000.

3. Toronto FIREPAC has held two annual FIREPAC recognition nights with many prominent politicians in attendance to congratulate our collective efforts.

4. Federal lobbying has moved the Public Safety Officer Compensation Fund closer to becoming a reality – with a new government in power, new lobbying efforts will have to be redirected. In addition, Federal lobbying also resulted in the passage of Bill C-14, a criminal code amendment the increases the penalties for those setting up traps in illegal grow operations that endanger Fire Fighters.

5. Provincial lobby efforts have resulted in bringing the OMERS Bill 206 to Third Reading and Royal Assent.

FIREPAC ... Continued from page 38

Recent efforts by CUPE to stop this Bill have failed and FIREPAC did “respond to the challenge.”

6. In June of 2004 the Association co-hosted our first ever FIRE OPS 101 day to allow city politicians and the media a chance to spend a day experience the realities of Fire Fighting. This event allowed the Mayor and many Councillors in attendance to better understand our need for a better fleet, radio’s for all Fire ground personnel and the benefits to the citizens of Fire Fighters responding to medical calls. This is turn led to our first Municipal Legislative Lobby day whereby we booked individual meetings with every Member of Council and lobbied them on those issues.

7. The Association was very active in both the 2004 and 2006 Federal elections, backing candidates from all three major federal parties and successfully supporting the campaigns of several Members of Parliament. The physical work of FIREPAC volunteers by pounding in signs, delivering flyers, etc. is invaluable to the campaign of those we support.

8. Association representatives attended numerous fundraising events for supportive politicians in all three levels of government. These events not only allow us to continue to support our political friends, they are also great opportunities to discuss our issues and to continue to build and strengthen our contacts throughout the political arena.

If you are interested in contributing to Toronto FIREPAC, contact the Union Office and ask for information on the various ways in which you can assist. For example, you can donate all or part of a union sub. Fire Department Employees Credit Union Members can contribute through payroll check off or a lump sum contribution by way of a personal cheque to TPFFA. Call (416) 466-1167 for details.

In summary, the continuing success and growth of Toronto FIREPAC is only possible through your support. Successful political involvement takes commitment, time, energy and money but it continues to produce positive results for Fire Fighters. None of this is possible without the volunteer hours and money that you have given. Thank you and let’s see how we can grow for the 2006 year!!

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO SUPPORTED THIS VALUABLE AND EFFECTIVE PROGRAM WITH TIME AND/OR MONEY CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGHOUT 2005.

OUR 2006 FIREPAC MEMBERSHIP DRIVE IS NOW UNDER WAY AND YOUR SUPPORT IS ONCE AGAIN NEEDED AND APPRECIATED.

Stewart, Paul Straub, Ralph Swiderski, Ed Tewnion, Gordon Trudeau, Ryan Tsukamoto, Todd Tullett, Neil VanDeWalker, Darren Vasconcellos, Chris Voss, Graham Vranges, Sonny Walsh, Mike Waterson, Al Watson, Mark Weaver, Scott Wilson, Glen Winkley, David Wittemeir, Martin Wright, Sonny BRONZE Aikins, Gord Allanby, Ken Allen, Gord Anderson, Alan Aprile, Steve Ashleigh, Paul Assaf, Paul Atkinson, Paul Awender, Ken Bacon, David Bailey, Scott Batelann, Rick Bennett, Craig Bentham, Paul Bigham, Jeff Boudewyn, Kevin Bourke, Michael Bradshaw, Tony Brandsetter, Joe Bryant, David Bujokas, Semahj Bull, Steven Carr, Adan Carter, Graham Casarin, Tony Cay, Rick Chambers, Bill Chatland, Dave Chong, Chris Clark, Steve Clarke, Jeff Close, Kenneth Coe, Tod Coleman, Don Coles, Shane Collett, Don Connor, Robert T Cooke, Ken Cooper, Greg Correa, Bruce Cotterill, Derrick Craig, Dannel Craig, Kevin Crawford, John Csepreghi, Janos Czulinski, Peter Dandridge, Bob Dart, Craig Davidson, John Davis, Tom De Amicis, Gino DeBruyn, Mike Demsey, John Demy, Paul Dennis, Rick Divicos, George Dougan, Mike Drenters, Mathew

Dube, Marc Duffield, Steve Dunk, Ernie Edmunds, Brent Elliot, Shane Ennis, Fabian Erwin, Doug Evans, John Falkner, Alan Fekete, Kalman Foote, Drew Forward, Chris Gage, Darryl Gale, James Gallinger, Bruce Gambrelis, Angelo Ganguly, Andrew Gillespie, Glen Gray, Gordon Gunns, Richard Hacking, Barbara Hannah, Glen Har, Levi Harfield, Steve Harrison, Bruce Hasselfelt, Brian Hasson, Mike Hennesey, Peter Hill, John Hoey, Jeff Holder, Leonard Hosein, Imo Hubbard, Nathan Humphries, Bob Hurd, Neil Hygh, Robert Ireland, Shawn Irwin, Bruce Jackson, Wade Jacklin, William Jannusas, Al Jeisel, Perry Jenkins, Andrew Johnson, Wally Jones, Paul Kalliokoski, John Kastely, Michael Kelly, Brian Kelly, Ryan Kendrick, Dan Kennedy, Paul Kerr, Glenn Kilpatrick, Ron Kralic, George Krolow, Ed Kuhn, Peter Kurmey, Dave Lambert, Marilelle Lapinskas, James Lariviere, Kit Leeson, Larry Lines, Ken Ljubicic, Djordje Loukides, William Low,Powin Luke, Diane MacAloney, Ray MacIntyre, Bary MacLennan, Daryl MacSween, Andrew Mallany, Jay Malone, Miles Masters, Scott Mattison, Dave Mazur, Robert McAlinden, Brian McCune, Chris McDonald, Bruce

McGee, Mark McIntyre, Bill Melvin, Chris Merrick, Randy Moody, Murdo Moore, Scott Morgan, Chris Morris, Steven Morrow, Mike Myles, Scott Nagle,Dave Nearing,Brad Nicholls, Dave Nicholson, Keith Oates, Brad O’Dacre, Tim O’Hearn, Sean O’Mara, Steve O’Reilly, Dan Palmer, Matt Partington, Glen Perkons, Juris Pipcans, Richard Pocock, Steve Pos, Jeff Potter, Greg Power, Brian Ptolemy, Rob Ratushniak, Bryan Reid, Karen Richardson, Jeff Richardson, Kenneth Rizzuto, Luigi Robertson, Catherine Rome, Wendy Rowe, Tony Rowland, Chris Ryan, Leo Safian, George Safko, Mike Sanders, Robin Sangster, Brian Sansosti, Marlena Schuchardt, Cam Sell, Dan Sherwood, Neil Simmonds, Jay Smith, David H Smith, David Ian Soares, Mario St. Thomas, Brian Stachiw, Dave Stewart, Terry Straub, Rick Strauss, Dave Stuart, Richard Sykes, Stephen Taylor, David E Tessaro, Chris Thompson, Craig Tyrell, Jerry Verhaeghe, Tom Vernon, Russ Vig, Kelly Vit, Walter Walker, Ivor Walsh, David Warden, Bruce Warner, Eric Webb, Ken Weir, Chris Wickens, Shane Wilhelm, Rob Winders, Noel Wittemeier, Martin Yenn, Ronald Zsepeczky, William

WINTER SPRING 2005 2006 | FIRE WATCH 39

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COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT REVIEW This will be a regular section in which we try to explain different articles of our Collective Agreement.

We will try different methods to help explain the article: Charts, Q&A, examples and re-wording.

Article 45 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Requests for Transfers THIS ARTICLE OF THE COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT WAS MODIFIED IN THE LAST MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT AND IS STILL THE SOURCE OF SOME CONFUSION FOR OUR MEMBERS. THE PARTICULAR SOURCES OF CONFUSION ARE THE EXPERIENCE CATEGORIES AND CROSS COMMAND TRANSFERS. Experience categories set out the preferred makeup of an apparatus; one captain, one acting captain, a fire fighter greater than 10 years, one 6-10 years and one 0-5 years. No one is ever moved or reassigned to meet this makeup, but when vacancies are created the empty categories become available.

SOME BASIC RULES ON THE EXPERIENCE CATEGORY. THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS: â&#x20AC;˘ An experience category is assigned to the vacancy. There may be more than one experience category assigned to a single vacancy. Example - An apparatus has a captain, an a/c, and 2 fire fighters over ten years. This vacancy would be listed as having the 0-5 and 6-10 experience categories open. â&#x20AC;˘ The senior most fire fighter within the open experience category(s) will be assigned to fill the vacancy. â&#x20AC;˘ If no one from the open experience category requests the vacancy than it

will be assigned to the senior most person that has requested the position.* *The one exception to the above rule is where a 0-5 vacancy has been designated for an employee with 0-5 years and/or a recruit. The department is allowed to designate five positions in each command (for a total of twenty (20) over the four platoons) that can only be filled by a 0-5 person. Therefore, if a vacancy occurs in the 0-5 category and the department designates that vacancy, then even if no one in the 0-5 category requests it, it will not be filled by more senior personnel requesting it. These spots are not specifically reserved for recruits. If a 0-5 person requests it they will get it and the department can then move their designation to another apparatus that has a 0-5 vacancy.

Cross command transfers are now filled on; a quarterly basis, prior to the placement of recruits and when promotions are done. Transfers in command are always done before the cross command transfers are administered. So a

3IMPLY THE BEST

vacancy at a specific location may not be available to you if you are coming across command if someone in the command has requested it. You could be more senior to that person in the experience category of the vacancy, but the person in command will be placed first and the cross command transfers are done after.

Example - A vacancy in the 10-15 category exists on P324. A fire fighter with 11 years from A312 has put in a request for P324 and a fire fighter with 24 years from P426 has put in a request for south command with a preference listed for station 324. The fire fighter from A312 will go to P324 and the fire fighter from P426 will be moved to A312.

SOME OF THE OTHER BASIC RULES APPLYING TO CROSS COMMAND TRANSFERS ARE AS FOLLOWS: â&#x20AC;˘ You can request a specific platoon(s) you wish to be transferred to. If the vacancy is not on the platoon that

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SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 41

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CA Review ... Continued from page 41

you requested then you will not be transferred. You can specify more then one platoon.

• You cannot specify a specific location or apparatus. You may state your preference for a station or apparatus. If there are two or more apparatus that have a vacancy in your experience category they will place you on your preference. However, if the vacancy exists in the command you want, on the platoon you have requested, you will be transferred, even if it is not to your preferred location. There is no requirement to put a preferred location on your request.

• If you are promoted into another command you have a preference to return to your former command. You must file your transfer request within thirty (30) days of being promoted and you will be transferred back once a vacancy is available. The transfer request must state that you are applying your preference based on being promoted outside of command. The preference to return overrides someone else that is senior.

There may be other people with a similar priority to return and you will return based on the order that you were promoted. Example – An acting captain from west command is promoted and assigned to Station 114. S/he files a transfer request within the thirty days, requesting to return to west command. A vacancy opens at Station 415. The captain with the preference will be transferred even though there may be a captain with more seniority requesting to go to west command.

When utilizing your preference you do not have a choice of apparatus or pla-

toon. If you do not put your request in within thirty days of being promoted, or remove your transfer request, or put in a new request to another location in any of the other commands, you loose your entitlement to the preference.

• Being moved into a permanent acting position is NOT a promotion. Therefore, personnel are not entitled to the preference.

• Personnel being assigned a permanent acting spot get the vacancy left over after all in command transfers and cross command transfers of acting personnel are done. This applies the same to a person being promoted.

Example - Bob, Bill and Frank - all from the same class of 89 - Bob and Bill are A/ C’s in south but want to go North - a vacancy comes open in north. Frank is next on the list to be picked up and is currently a fire fighter in north. Bob and Bill coin toss for the position in north - Frank goes South to fill the resulting vacancy.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER A FEW BASIC RULES THAT APPLY TO ALL TRANSFERS. THEY ARE: • Transfer requests are kept on file until December 31 of the year following when you put the request in. Example – One fire fighter puts in a request on March 3, 2005. Another fire fighter puts in a request on December 27, 2005. Both requests remain active and on file until December 31, 2006.

• You may only have one transfer request on file at a time. Putting in a second request will automatically negate your earlier request.

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• You do not have the right to turn down a transfer that has been made based on a valid transfer request being on file.

• If you change your mind about a transfer request that you have put in. Send a memo or letter asking that the transfer request be rescinded.

• A transfer request must be in within fourteen days of the F.C.C. being issued for the transfers. In other words, if you file a request on Wednesday and the F.C.C. comes out the following Monday and shows a person junior to you getting the spot, it is because your request was not in within fourteen days.

• When two personnel have the same start date and both want to return to the same former command or request the same apparatus in command, the decision is made by a toss of the coin.

• A good rule to follow is; if there is a location in your command that you wish to work at, put in a request even when there is no vacancy.

• Another good rule is; if there is a specific location in another command that you want, put in a request to get to that command a.s.a.p. Once in the appropriate command you will get the vacancy over anyone from another command provided you meet the experience category.

As always, if you are not sure of the rules when filing a transfer request, contact a member of the Executive Board for assistance.

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SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 43

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44

Executive Kevin Ashfield

Talk

As chair of the Charity and Fundraising Committee I have noticed the toughest job is getting our members to participate in the various events your association is involved in. I applaud all of the members who have participated in the past without your commitment to the association our events would not have been possible. We are all proud of being professional fire fighters and would ask all of our members to consider giving an hour or two to help one of the many charities in your community. Stay Safe!

James Coones As a first term Executive Board Officer I can say that serving the past 15 months for Local 3888 members has been educational, enlightening, rewarding, and at times trying. There is certainly a tremendous amount of time spent by each Executive Board Officer away from their family and friends while defending gains of the past and pursuing more gains for the future. And for this I commend and respect each and every one of them. We have much work ahead of us still to remain a local which will continue to lead and innovate among firefighter associations. I feel we are up to the task and with the growing support, morale, and involvement of the membership, there is little we can not accomplish. I have been fortunate to have had a hand in some very progressive accomplishments so far during my tenure and look forward to being involved in even more over the remainder of my career.

Ian Hamilton The Health & Safety Committee has accomplished much in the past few years, both at the Command & Central Committee Levels. We have worked with administration and committees such as Government Relations, to achieve additional handsets for all front line vehicles, helmet identifiers for crews to assist with the Incident Management System, agreed upon changes to the IM System, a second set of fitted bunker gear for operational crews. Members sit on committees throughout the City dealing with issues such as Pandemic Planning, Mould Policy and various other issues that affect support divisions as well as other City workers. Issues concerning health & safety cover all aspects of our profession, from each piece of equipment to policies/SOGs and arise daily. The Health & Safety Committee, through the Executive continue to work hard on your behalf.

Kevin McCarthy As many of you know the Benefits Committee has been working very hard to put out a benefits booklet. This will not replace our collective agreement but will act as more of a user friendly resource. A copy will be sent to every active member of local 3888. The delay in putting this material out has largely been caused by concerns raised about inaccurate information which was contained in one of the city’s draft booklets. I hope everyone realizes that putting out information that may lead our members into thinking that they did not have coverage for a benefit which in fact they did, could lead to our members not asking for an eligible benefit.

Nevertheless progress has been made through the bargaining process and we are up beat that this material will be made available in the near future. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call a member of the Benefits committee.

Jon Jones I call myself one of Local 3888’s “elder statesmen.” Junior Board members prefer a two-word epithet which refers to our age, and a synonym to flatulence. Still our experience, and their enthusiasm, serves us well. I followed my father’s footsteps into the fire service and the union. I attended my first IAFF Convention with him in 1975, started on the trucks with him in 1981, and won the election he nominated me for in 1984. Since then, I have held every elected position in an IAFF Local from Auditor to President. West Command members now allow me to serve them, joining two other outstanding representatives from our Command. It is a joy to work with the rest of your Executive Board. I believe our current Board is the hardest-working one I have ever had the privilege to sit on. My goals this term are as follows: Continue to honour the contributions made by our members who are killed in the line of duty; Build a stronger Steward’s program; Advocate for a more just administration of Benefits payments.

Keith Hamilton Change without input from all parties, without the input of those who actually have to do the job causes resentment and stress. Since 1978 I’ve seen many changes and I was tired of not having a voice in these changes and so were the people I worked with. I ran for the executive board on a platform of information and communication and was elected in 1991. From 1992 until 2002 I was either the Treasurer or Secretary Treasurer. I’ve been involved in a union office ever since that first election and would like to continue serving the members until my career ends. Being a fire fighter, working with fire fighters and for fire fighters is the best career I could ever have imagined. Thank you for allowing me to carry your voice to those who should hear it and to help make sensible changes to our work.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 45

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46

Executive Talk ... Continued from page 45

Chris Bardecki It continues to be a busy time for the TPFFA Government Relations Committee. Both the Federal and Provincial 2006 Legislative Conferences are coming up later this year, with the Federal Conference slated for late April. We will once again be conducting our lobby education sessions with our Toronto Members of Parliament in Ottawa. Our key issues will be continuing the push for the creation of a Public Safety Officer Compensation Fund and securing federal funding for chemical, biological, radioactive and nuclear emergency response training and preparedness. The Government Relations and FIREPAC Committees also face a very busy election year in 2006 with the Federal election behind us, we continue to work on the approaching municipal election coming this fall. We are also working on the provincial by-election in the Toronto-Danforth riding. Elections really are our opportunity to work to ensure that the people elected to make decisions will be working with us on fire fighter and public safety issues.

Rick Berenz The function of the Public Relations committee is to make the public aware of the numerous ways in which the Association assists individuals or organizations within the City of Toronto. This involves establishing credible relationships within the media circle in order to promote the Association and the Fire Fighters we represent to the general public. The Public Relations Committee must always be concerned with the types of organizations we affiliate the Association with. We have worked very hard at establishing a very high level of respect and credibility as the Toronto Professional Fire Fighter’s Association and as such must be very selective with who we offer public support to. Government officials at all levels are very much aware of our Public Relations and this in turn assists the Association in our lobbying efforts. It is imperative that we do not take this earned credibility and trust for granted. We must always strive to improve our commitment to serve the citizens and City we are sworn to protect, whether it be on duty or off duty. If we are successful at doing this, public perception will continue to be very positive for the Fire Fighters today and well into the future.

Scott Eyers This is my second term on the Executive. Presently I sit on the following standing committees: Entertainment Recreation and Social (Chair), Grievance, Health and Safety Committees. The Entertainment committee organizes the following events: Children’s Christmas Party, Retirement Dinner and the summer Picnic(s). We are in the planning stages for the 2006 picnic(s). In the past we held two picnics because the shift schedule precluded the day shift from attending and difficult for those on nights to attend if we went with one date. The implementation of the 24-hour shift has the committee considering one picnic this year. We are looking at adding other events for the kids this summer and are open to suggestions from the membership. These events provide a social time for our members, as it allows them to get together with those we work with today as well as reminisce with those who may have moved to other commands and/or other shifts over the years. We are also planning for the Retirement Dinner and Dance to be held in the month of May.

Hugh Doherty Many times issues around money become the driving force for those in the bureaucracy. We must continue to ensure that we and our families are protected through contract enhancements, legislation and that we loudly advocate for those in our profession who become stricken with disabilities and for those who pay the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duties. One issue which requires the attention of all our members is that of the Attendance Management Program. Many changes were brought forward as a result of the arbitration on this issue. A major victory was your right to have union representation at any stage of the process. We again urge all members to exercise this right and ensure you have representation at either your informal or formal meetings. We have also been instrumental in addressing the hours of work in the following section, Information, Mechanical and Communications. This has been a benefit to those working in these areas and also increases the services provided to the public. In closing last year your grievance committee addressed in excess of a 150 issues with the corporation. We look forward to continuing to work on your behalf and look forward to any questions or comments you may have.

Kevin Doherty I am in my third term on this Executive board and we all have seen a lot of changes. We are now participating in the 24 hour shift trial period that will be a culture change and we should all give the process an honest effort. I am Chair of the Ceremonial and Bereavement Committee. We have participated in the funerals of the two fire fighters in Yellowknife, the four RCMP officers who were slain, and we traveled to Montreal for the LODD of Marcel Marleau. We put out notices for members to travel to Montreal and only had a passenger van that we sent down. In total we had 25 people that did travel to Montreal and I would like to thank those members who did make the trip. We have plaque presentations scheduled for our members that have died in the line of duty. So please check the web-site and plan to attend. We as an Executive Board have worked tirelessly for you the members of local 3888. There have been many challenges, and there will be more to come, so please support your Executive.

Ernie Thorne I am Chair of the Human Relations Committee, a member of the Bargaining Committee, and the Executive liaison to the WSIB Committee. Your Human Rights are governed by a host of documents. These documents include internal human rights policies, Collective Agreement Provisions on discrimination and harassment, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and the Charter of Rights and Freedom. Your Human Relations Committee is available to discuss, in confidence, any issue or incident that you believe may fall under one (or more) of these areas. WSIB claims and Modified Duty assignments, in particular (upon return from a WSIB illness or injury), continue to cause problems for our members. I need to be contacted as soon as you encounter a problem with your WSIB adjudicator or with the modified work assigned by the Toronto Fire Services’ Medical Office. By working together with all the information you have and as soon thereafter.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 47

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TFS V

Tomorrow’s Fire Fighters Today Written by AL HARRIS AND JASON SCOVELL

V

ocational Scouting in Toronto is a fairly new component in Canadian Scouting. Prior to 1999, there had never been a vocational Scout group in Toronto. That is, until Toronto EMS applied to Scouts Canada for a charter for their new group to be known as the 1st Downsview Vocational Venturer Company and Rover Crew (Toronto EMS MedVents for short). The newly minted MedVents joined the ranks of many other vocational Venturer groups throughout Canada, such as those sponsored by the York Regional Police, Whitby Fire and Emergency Services and the British Columbia EMS to name just a few.

In 1999 and 2000, Toronto Firefighters Al Harris and Mark Hayes, who were then both leaders in Scouting, took notice and began discussions about this newly formed Medical Venturer group operating from TFS/EMS headquarters on Dufferin Street and began planning for what they would need to start a similar group sponsored

by Toronto Fire Services.

As both Al’s son and Mark’s daughter were in Scouting and headed to Venturer age (1417 years), they discussed the possibility of creating a co-ed Fire Venturer Company in the City of Toronto.

In 2001, Al Harris put out a call looking for possible leaders and group committee members. With a few volunteers they were set to begin to put it all together. So Al, Mark and Toronto Firefighter Glenn Gibson met with then Toronto Fire Chief Al Speed, Deputy Chief Rick Simpson, and Division Chief Frank Lamie to outline the formation of a co-ed vocational Scouting Company with a Firefighter-based theme. Approval was given and the three Scout leaders then arranged to meet with Scouts Canada’s Greater Toronto Council to request that a charter group be formed. During this registration process, the Fire Venturer Company was proudly announced to Toronto Fire Services in June 2002 by the publication of AFS 02-89. In that announcement it was noted that curriculum development was underway, that a special uniform would be developed for participants and leaders, and that volunteers were needed to assist. The group was well on their way.

In September of 2002 at the Toronto Fire Academy, 6 young

men met with Al, Mark, Glenn and a few of the group committee members to officially form the 1st Toronto Fire Venturer Company. The Company charter was presented, which also enabled the participation of a Rover Crew, thereby allowing multiple levels of involvement for youths and young adults.

Fire Venturers can take youth 14-17 years of age, and members can participate between the ages of 18-26 as Rovers.

At its core, the Company aims to encourage young people to consider a career in the Fire Services and other emergency services. The curriculum includes training in all aspects of fire technology, fire suppression, fire prevention, and first aid, including CPR. In other words, take the TFS recruit training program and spread it out over 3 years, and then you have a clearer picture of the intent behind the Fire Venturer programming.

In its first year of activity, Al Harris was the key leader/instructor. The youth members were front and centre at a Toronto Fire Services recruit graduation and had a picture taken with former Ontario Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander, who was in attendance in his role as honorary Toronto Fire Chief. Three youth members, including Al Harris’ son Jonathan, came from Al’s 7th Pickering Group and were registered in Number 2 Venturer Company. A picture of the historic moment hangs at TFS Headquarters.

The second year brought new challenges as the home base of the Fire Venturer Company at the Toronto Fire Academy underwent renovations. The group moved its operations to the East Command Fire Training Centre which presented some limitations with respect to the availability of equipment, but which enabled the creation of new approaches to the implementation of the rigorous educational program. The second year also saw the introduction of Glenn Gibson as the key leader/instructor, with Al Harris taking over the role as Chairman.

In the 3rd year of the program’s operation, the key leader/ instructor is District Chief Bill Sullivan from Professional Development and Training. There are approximately 23 youth in the program (Venturers and Rovers) and they meet from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm on the first three Wednesdays of each month throughout the season beginning in September and

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 49

Venturers ... Continued from page 50

ending in June at the Toronto Fire Academy. Unlike a typical Scouting group, they do not camp or take part in apple day. As a vocational Scouting group, they focus their efforts on learning about fire operations, suppression, and prevention through classroom and hands-on training and community service. The group is funded in part by Toronto Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 3888.

TFS Fire Venturers have participated in â&#x20AC;&#x153;McHappy Dayâ&#x20AC;? events, have attended tours of the TFS Communications Centre, and have conducted fire ground operations with full turnout gear by running the training tower stairs, working with water charged fire hoses and conducting search and rescue scenarios in confined spaces. Without a doubt the experience is designed to be as interesting and exciting as any young adult could want, with the added benefit of contributing to the development of what may be a future Fire Fighter in Toronto.

As noted in FCC 04-20, 04-118, and 05-161, and in Union Notice #05-080, volunteers are always needed to assist in the delivery of programs and management of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affairs. Such positions as Advisors, Volunteer Instructors, Treasurer and even Commission/Chairperson are available for your consideration. New leaders are always welcome and should contact Al Harris at Station 225, Platoon D for more information.

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Successes ... Continued from page 51

ations. The letter of intent was fulfilled and the end result is a process that will see our members properly and continuously trained to become company officers within the department.

REBUILDING OF FIRE HALL IN GRENADA 14 fire fighters and Chief Bill Stewart arrived in Grenada on May 31st to assist in the rebuilding of a Fire Hall that was damaged during the hurricanes. Toronto fire fighters received excellent media coverage locally and abroad and were very appreciated by residents, politicians, and fire service members in Grenada.

TRADITIONAL HELMETS At the May general meeting the membership voted to pass a motion by Brother Ron Weltman to pursue the negotiation of a traditional style fire helmet to be purchased by the City for members of Local 3888. Negotiations were successful to pursue this and the details of how they will be purchased and distributed were tentatively agreed to. The process is currently ongoing with a total of 10 helmets from 6 manufacturers that began control testing in March.

MD FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN The 2005-2006 MD fundraising campaign for Local 3888 has nearly tripled its pledge over the previous year. And the fiscal fundraising year isn’t over until the end of March. Through participation in a number of boot drives, an MD hop at the British Show, and MD’s Ontario fire fighter conference, we have been able to raise $38,000 to date. This does not include funds being raised but not totaled yet from two other very notable new events.

The first is a unique music CD that was the brainchild and work of Toronto fire fighter Chris Burrell. Chris formed a band made up entirely of Toronto fire fighters called FIRESOUND. They produced a CD called Burning Love and held a CD launch party. All profits from the sale of this CD will be added to our 2005-2006 MD fundraising total.

Executive Board Officer Rick Berenz who chairs the Public Relations committee struck a deal with JVS Toronto to be a co-sponsor of their annual bowl-a-thon,

which was held on February 28th, in return for 25 percent of the profits to also be added to our fundraising totals. I fully anticipate that we will be exceeding the $50,000 mark in fundraising this year and may even go beyond that. Congratulations to all 3888 volunteers and the charity committee for a job well done!

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS LOBBYING Recently, all eyes were on the OMERS autonomy Bill 206, which had been a decade long lobbying effort at the federal and provincial levels of government.

Through extrodinary lobbying efforts we were able to get this vitally important bill through 1st and 2nd readings in the Ontario legislature in 2005. Since that time it just recently passed 3rd reading and received royal assent to become law in Ontario.

Provincial Bill 58, The Act to amend the safe streets act was given royal assent on December 15th. It was lobbied for jointly by fire fighters and Muscular Dystrophy Canada to allow for us to continue our boot drive fundraising efforts.

At the federal level, a private member’s motion (M153) by MP Peter Julian to allow for the creation of a Public Safety Officer Compensation Fund (PSOCF) was passed and expresses the will of the house to move this issue forward. This fund will help to compensate all public safety officers in Canada who die in the line of duty. Lobbying efforts continue heavily to make this fund become a reality.

PROVINCIAL MEMORIAL DEDICATION On June 5th, hundreds of uniformed fire fighters, retired colleagues, family members, citizens, and prominent members of the provincial government gathered to dedicate the ‘Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial’ at Queen’s Park.

This memorial, along with legislation that recognizes the first Sunday in October as fire fighter’s memorial day had been 5 years in the making. Many thanks need to go to liberal MPP Dave Levac for his introduction of such legislation. Also thanks to Brian George and the OPFFA Executive for their tireless work and lobbying efforts to make this a reality. And to many members of Local 3888 who assisted in the efforts as well as the plan-

ning of the dedication ceremony.

FIRE WATCH MAGAZINE The very magazine that is in your hands currently, mailed out its premiere issue to all 3888 members’ homes on September 19th. It was through dedication, perseverance, and hard work on the part of many, that this valuable member communications publication became a reality. Since its launch it has received many member accolades, and continues to serve the membership well, and generate extra revenue for the Association through the various advertising contained within it.

Of course these are just a few of the notable accomplishments of our Association that come to mind. There were countless hours spent on charity and public relations events, grievance issues and hearings, planning social events for members and retirees, resolving human relations issues between members, station visits and mobilizing of the membership by Stewards, individual benefits issues resolved, funerals, memorials and dedications planned, improvements to members’ health and safety, and much more. None of which should be overlooked or taken for granted.

It is without question that the elected and appointed members of our Association have worked very hard on our behalf over the past year, and it is with great pride and admiration that I acknowledge the accomplishments that have been reaped as a result of that dedication.

And remember, it’s okay to sit around the fire hall table and complain about the real issues that have a negative impact on you and your fellow fire fighters.

But do it in a constructive way that allows the people you have elected to attempt to make positive changes that will hopefully resolve those issues and bring an improvement to the lives of all Brothers and Sisters in the fire service. And perhaps even take the time to talk about some of these successes as well as concerns.

Here’s looking forward to an even more productive and successful year in 2006!

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 53

3888 RECENT HAPPENINGS

Captain Fred Hunter and Acting Captain Gary Muir help Executive Board Officer Rick Berenz deliver toys and a cheque for $500.00 to a family that was burned out of 8 Vendome Place on January 14, 2006.

Brian George, Chris Bardecki, Kevin Ashfield, James Coones, Frank Ramagnano, Scott Marks, Fred LeBlanc, and Rick Miller during celebrations of the passing of Bill 206 on Thursday February 23, 2006.

John Russell of the Protestants (red jersey) and Paul McShane of the Catholics (black jersey) wait for retired fire fighter Val Weir to drop the puck at the ceremonial opening of the 7th annual Celtic Challenge.

The Catholics beat the Protestants 4-2 and took home the Tommy McCullagh Memorial Cup. The Catholics lead the annual event five games to two.

54

Several Executive Board Officers, Stewards, and members of Local 3888 participated in the annual JVS Bowl-A-Thon on Tuesday February 28th. Twenty-Five percent of the events profits will go to MD as part of our fundraising for the 2005-2006 campaign.

Former Toronto Maple Leaf Captain Doug Gilmore dropped by 39 Commissioners Street and spoke with the principal officers regarding www.monstermortgages.ca.

President Scott Marks speaks at Princess Margaret hospital prior to presenting them with a cheque for $120,000, raised mostly by the sale of the 2005 Toronto Fire Fighterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calendar. Also in attendance are Executive Board Officer Kevin Ashfield, Vice President Ed Kennedy, Mayor David Miller, Captain Dave Pineau, and Jessica McColeman.

Frank Ramagnano, Hugh Doherty, Kevin Doherty, Reverend Hugh Donnelly, and Jon Jones stand with Mrs. MacFarlane at station 234 during the plaque dedication ceremony for Brother John MacFarlane.

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 55

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WSIB

MODIFIED DUTIES AS IT RELATES TO THE WORKPLACE SAFETY AND INSURANCE ACT

Ernie Thorne – Local 3888 Executive Board Officer

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA, 1997, plus amendments) is comprised of 13 Parts.

Part V is titled “Return to Work” and this part deals with Modified Duties (as we know it). Participating in the Modified Work Program (i.e. working Modified Duties) is a common step in the Early and Safe Return to Work (ESRTW) process for many of our members.

I

will quote parts of the Act as it relates to this subject and then I will attempt to explain your role in the ESRTW process. Before I begin, however, I need to first explain that all Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) claims are evaluated upon the merits and justice of a case and is not bound by legal precedent (i.e. very similar cases can be adjudicated with very different outcomes and the results of one successful claim cannot be used to win an argument involving another separate claim that may have very similar circumstances).

One of the cornerstones upon which WSIB adjudicators base their decisions when dealing with your claim relating to the ESRTW process is the obligation of the parties (employer and worker) to co-operate.

WSIB Part V Return to Work SECTION 40 Duty to co-operate in return to work 1. The employer of an injured worker shall co-operate in the early and safe return to work of the worker by, a) Contacting the worker as soon as possible after the injury occurs and maintaining communication throughout the period of the worker’s recovery and impairment; b) Attempting to provide suitable employment that is available and consistent with the worker’s functional abilities and that, when possible, restores

the worker’s pre-injury earnings; c) Giving the Board such information as the Board may request concerning the worker’s return to work; and d) .. Doing such other things as may be prescribed.

Same, worker 2. The worker shall co-operate in his or her early and safe return to work by, e) Contacting his or her employer as soon as possible after the injury occurs and maintaining communication throughout the period of the worker’s recovery and impairment; f) Assisting the employer, as may be required or requested, to identify suitable employment that is available and consistent with the worker’s functional abilities and that, when possible, restores his or her pre-injury earnings; g) Giving the Board such information as the Board may request concerning the worker’s return to work; and h) Doing such other things as may be prescribed.

From the above WSIB language, you can see where there is an obligation to co-operate by both the employer and the worker (employee). Co-operation by the employee in this process usually begins and continues from your visits to your treating Health Care Practitioner (HCP) – have them complete the appropriate paperwork and ensure that it gets forwarded to the WSIB (if possible, make a copy for your records).

It is at this point that the RTW process sometimes breaks down and you find yourself being contacted by the Medical Office with an offer of Modified Work (a requirement of the Em-

ployer by the WSIB – see 1 b) above).

A recurring theme for the breakdown is the slow filing of Medical Information (original and/or new Medical Information) by your treating HCP (usually a Doctor) to the WSIB. With no Medical information or with no new Medical information (such as the results of an MRI indicating the injury to be a “tear” as opposed to what was originally thought to be an inflammation), the WSIB adjudicator will make a determination on the suitability of Modified Work offer by the TFS. A second breakdown can occur when the treating HCP (Doctor, Chiropractor, and Physiotherapist) tells you while you are in their office to “stay off work, including no Modified Duties.” If the completed Medical form submitted to WSIB indicates restrictions (which means you can do modified work) or if the Medical form submitted by your treating HCP did not indicate ‘no Modified Duties’ as he/she told you, you will be contacted for modified work. If you receive a phone call from the Medical Office with an offer of Modified work that you believe that you are not capable of, I would ask that you contact me as soon as is practical with all your WSIB Claim information that you have (Claim #, date of injury, nature of injury, name of adjudicator, ongoing treatment, etc.).

There is usually a few days from the time you receive the phone call from the Medical Office and the time they expect you to show up for your Modified Duties assignment. These few days should give us time to determine if there is a breakdown some-

SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 57

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WSIB ... Continued from page 57

where in the processing of your Claim (to contact the WSIB adjudicator, the Emergency Department, your Family Doctor, your physiotherapist, or whomever is involved in your claim).

In addition to the foregoing, I would also recommend that you stay in contact with TFS through the appropriate (by Division) reporting absent telephone number if you are not able to RTW. However, even if you do everything that is required of you, a WSIB adjudicator may still determine that you are capable of Modified duties (see below for section 41 of the Act – Obligation to re-employ).

SECTION 41 Determinations re return to work 3. The Board may determine the following matters on its own initiative or shall determine them if the worker and the employer disagree about the fitness of the worker to return to work: a) If the worker has not returned to work with the employer, the Board shall determine whether the worker is medically able to perform the essential duties of his or her pre-injury employment or to perform suitable

work.

of the Act – Decisions and Appeals).

In closing, I would like to remind you that there are time limits involved in almost every aspect in dealing with your WSIB claim. Report your injury to your supervisor as soon as is practical, seek medical attention if required as soon as is practical, and complete a WSIB Form 6 as soon as is practical (and make copies of everything you can). It is also a good practice to record the dates of any phone calls made or received relating to your Claim as well as the dates of any Medical appointments or procedures. The vast majority of our WSIB Claims submitted by 3888 Members do not encounter any problems. However, if your claim is not one of those, contact a WSIB Committee Member immediately because, once again, we’re dealing with time limits.

b) If the Board has previously determined that the worker is medically able to perform suitable work, the Board shall determine whether the worker is medically able to perform the essential duties of the worker’s pre-injury employment.

The determination by the adjudicator that he/she believes that you are capable of Modified Duties does not necessarily mean that the matter is closed. We have had many adjudicators reverse their decisions for a number of reasons, including the supplying of new medical information. New medical information could include something as simple as advising the adjudicator that you are taking a particular prescribed medication to treat the injury, which is causing your inability to perform Modified work. Other times, if we do not agree with the adjudicator’s ® decision, we may simply have to reCreating Healthier Lives™ Since 1956 fer the decision of Giving you the extra energy to face your workplace challenges, the adjudicator to Shaklee’s Essential Foundation Packs also deliver exceptional mediation or to the nutrition and antioxidant protection each and every day.

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60

SPORTS T.F.D OLDIMERS STANDINGS CONGRATULATIONS BERKLEY, THE 2005â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2006 LEAGUE CHAMPS!

TEAM

WINS

LOSSES

TIES

G.P.

G.F.

G.A.

(+ / -)

POINTS

BERKLEY ST.

10

5

5

D

20

71

61

10

25

COWAN AVE.

9

7

4

20

83

75

8

22

ROSE AVE.

9

8

3

20

68

65

3

21

OSSINGTON AVE.

7

8

5

20

66

67

-1

19

PORTLAND ST.

7

9

4

20

70

84

-14

18

THE BAY

5

10

5

20

81

85

-4

15

EAST COMMAND HOCKEY LEAGUE FINAL STANDINGS 2005â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2006 CONGRATULATIONS GREEN, THE 2005â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2006 LEAGUE CHAMPS!

TEAM

WINS

LOSSES

TIES

G.F.

G.A.

(+ / -)

POINTS

GREEN

13

4

0

114

86

28

26

YELLOW

12

3

2

100

74

26

22

RED

8

5

4

102

97

5

20

BLUE

6

7

4

93

90

3

16

BLUE LITE

4

12

1

90

112

-22

9

GREY

2

14

1

85

125

-40

5

TORONTO FIRE FIGHTERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; HOCKEY LEAGUE FINAL STANDNGS CONGRATULATIONS GREENWOOD. THE 2005â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2006 LEAGUE CHAMPS!

TEAM GREENWOOD

WINS

LOSSES

TIES

D

G.P.

G.F.

G.A.

(+ / -)

POINTS

12

2

5

1

20

88

49

39

29

LOMBARD

10

6

4

20

82

55

27

24

DUNDAS

10

8

2

20

68

59

9

22

CARLAW

8

7

4

20

77

88

-11

20

ADELAIDE

5

12

3

20

58

78

-20

13

COMBINES

3

12

4

20

60

104

-44

10

1

1

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803,*/( '03 :063 #&45 i*/5&3&45w SPRING 2006 | FIRE WATCH 61

2006 UPCOMING EVENTS EVENT

LOCATION

April 3-6, 2006

OPFFA Spring Seminar

Niagara Falls, Renaissance Fallsview

Tuesday, April 18, Night Meeting Only 1900 Hrs

3888 General Union Meeting

RCL Br.527 948 Sheppard Ave. W.

April 23- 26 2006

IAFF Leg Conference

Ottawa

Friday, April 28, 2006

FF Ball

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

Monday, May 8, 2006

Stewards Meeting

3888 Union Office

Wednesday May 10, 2006

Local 3888 Media Awards

Toronto, Ontario

3888 General Union Meeting

RCL Br.527 948 Sheppard Ave. W.

May 28-31 2006

OPFFA 9th Annual Convention

Blue Mountain, Collingwood

Jul.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Stewards Meeting

3888 Union Office

Aug.

August 27 - Sept 1 2006

IAFF Convention

Toronto, Ontario

Apr.

Wednesday May 24, Meeting Only 1900 Hrs.

Night

*

May

DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

DATE*

62

who’s protecting you?

● Canada's largest Auto and Home Insurance Program for Firefighters. ● Live person-to-person communication. ● Staff return calls promptly and properly explain coverages. ● Claims counselling to protect your good insurance record.

2175 Sheppard Avenue East, Suite 307, Willowdale, Ontario M2J 1W8 Telephone: (416) 225-6000 Toll Free 1-888-892-7176 Fax: (416) 225-6890 www.northcity.ca/fire

Just to let you know, we do a lot more than oil changes.

Ask about Jiffy Lube preventive maintenance services.

1349 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Mississauga, ON, 905-624-9724 5706 Hwy #7, Markham, ON, 905-294-5000 8332 Kennedy Rd, Markham, ON, 905-415-0756 2525 Thomas St, Mississauga, ON, 905-821-1569 16635 Yonge St, Newmarket, ON, 905-898-6307 1221 Guelph Line, Burlington, ON, 905-319-0058

645 Third Line, Oakville, ON, 905-847-5313 3020 Unity Dr, Mississauga, ON, 905-607-8143 4230 Dundas Street W, Etobicoke, ON, 416-233-7093 23 Taunton Road West, Oshawa, ON, 905-728-7108 516 Brock St N, Whitby, ON, 905-666-9448