Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 1
OSFA & ORFA Minority Members on changes in Oklahoma’s Fire Service
OKLAHOMA FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION OKLAHOMA STATESTATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION 2716 N.E. 50th 2716 N.E. St. 50th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Oklahoma City, OK 73111
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Diversity & Inclusion Official publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association
August/September/October 2021
2 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Contents
August/September/October 2021
Volume 38, Issue 2
klahoma Firefighter Official Publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association 2716 N.E. 50th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 424-1452 • Fax (405) 424-1032 osfa@osfa.info • www.osfa.info
Cover Photo - Shelton’s Photograhy Pictured: Sheri Nickel, Donnie Bennett, Tony Lopez
4, 6, 8, 12 - 2021 OSFA Convention Photos
Published quarterly for members of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association to educate its membership, to improve the fire service and to enhance the value and dignity of their profession, either paid or volunteer. Editor in Chief Tippy Pierce tippy@osfa.info Co-Editor Sheri Nickel sherin@osfa.info Managing Editor Penelope Soldan penelopes@osfa.info Get your Oklahoma Firefighter magazine the minute it goes to press! Read it on your smart phone, laptop or other digital device! Simply call (405-424-1452) or email the OSFA office (osfa@osfa.info) and request digital editions!
26-35 - Diversity & Inclusion
Pictured: Oklahoma women firefighters who instructed at Camp Inferno
Advertiser’s Index
36-37 - 2021 OSFA State Fire School OSFA / ORFA UPDATES 5, 7, 11 - OSFA Executive Board 13-14 - OSFA Directors 18 - Memorial Wall of Valor 19 - Museum Report 20 - ORFA Convention Photos 21 - ORFA President’s Report 22 - Women’s Auxiliary Convention Photos 22 - Women’s Auxiliary Report 24 - Stavros Scholarship Recipients OSFA COMMITTEES 37 - Educational Advisory 38-39 - Public Education 40 - Safety & Health
46-51 - OFCA News FEATURES 16 - The Rural Firefighter: Corey Conrady 18 - Ride to Remember Photos 21 - In Memoriam 24 - Question & Answers 44 - Oklahoma Fire Spotlight - Walters FD FIRE SERVICE REPORTS 39 - National Fire Protection Assoc. (NFPA) 42 - Firefighter Near-Miss 43 - Oklahoma Fire Service Chaplains (OFSC) 43 - Fire Service Instructors of Okla. (FSIO) 48 - Oklahoma Firefighters Pension System 50 - Assistant State Fire Marshal 50 - Fire Protection Publications (FPP) 50 - OSU Fire Service Training (OSU-FST)
29 -- Angelo, Gordon & Co 14 -- Beutel Goodman 30 -- Brandywine Global 33 -- Capital Dynamics 2 -- Casco Industries 52 -- Casco Industries 31 -- Chautauqua 51 -- Chief Fire & Safety 10 -- Commonfund Capital 25 -- Conrad Fire Equipment 17 -- DACO Fire Equipment 43 -- FPP Wildland Book 30 -- Fred Alger 45 -- Garcia Hamilton & Assoc 23 -- ITE Fire & Rescue 41 -- John Vance Auto Group 19 -- LGT Capital Partners 37 -- Moore Norman Tech 9 -- NAFECO 18 -- Nuveen 19 -- River Road Asset 21 -- Roberts Testing 35 -- Sharp Testing 15 -- Southwest EVT Conf CONTACT osfa@osfa.info
to place an ad in this magazine Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 3
127th OSFA CONVENTION
June 9 - 12, 2021
268 attendees (including 196 voting members) representing 48 cities & towns Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired
Hominy FD - 100 Years Plaque
Lindsay FD - 100 Years Plaque
Governor Stitt with OSFA Executive Board 4 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
in Guthrie
Cliff Davidson: OSFA President’s Report
O K L A H O M A
Hello everyone! “I was at my grandson’s birthday party and he loves fire trucks. I hope everyone So we called Oklahoma City Fire and they brought a truck out for him. is enjoying their It totally made his day!” summer and getting to enjoy some family Ringwood FD time. It’s amazing how time flies. It seems like just a few days ago I was campaigning in Tulsa to get on the board to serve the firefighters of Oklahoma. I will say it has been a big learning experience and I have enjoyed almost all of it. As with anything, there are highs and lows -- that is part of life and, for sure, part of the fire service. I have enjoyed traveling around and meeting with departments and firefighters around the state. The last year has been a little challenging as far as just making it Q&A with Cliff Davidson to chiefs meetings and other functions around the state. OSFA’s new President was born and raised in Enid. He I know there were many fundraisers canceled joined the Ringwood Fire Department in 2004, served as around the state. I know many volunteer departRingwood Asst. Fire Chief for 10 years and is currently serving his sixth year as Ringwood Fire Chief. ments count on them for their annual budget, In a recent question-and-answer session with Oklahoma and I hope most of you were able to weather that Firefighter, Davidson, 56, shared the following: shortfall. It’s anyone’s guess what lies ahead with the How did you go about getting into the fire service? COVID situation. All we can do is hope and pray I was 39 when I finally joined the fire department. I that it won’t effect everyone as bad as the previous had several family members who were members of the year. Ringwood FD -- uncles, cousins, a brother and a sisterI look forward to serving as the president of in-law. Once I finally joined, I was hooked. And I was fortunate to have one of the best Chief’s your organization this year and face whatever chalanyone could serve under. John Regier instilled in lenges that lie ahead. everyone that just because you are a volunteer doesn’t The death benefit should come back from the mean you can’t be professional. I can’t thank him actuary next session and we will be following that enough for sharing his wisdom. very closely. If you haven’t attended the Memorial Golf TourWhat do you like most about the fire service? nament or Memorial Service, I would encourage Getting to work with fellow members and serving the you to try to attend this year. community. Attending training with fellow firefighters and getting to know them. The Memorial Golf Tournament (Sept. 15) helps Also meeting and getting to know some great fire raise the funds for the Memorial so we can keep up service instructors. Oklahoma is very fortunate to have the maintenance on it. some great instructors. The Memorial (Oct. 3) is our chance to honor our fallen and the ones who have served What have been some before us. highlights of your fire Your Executive Director and Museum service career so far? GetDirector have been working diligently to ting to help others in a time of need and serving get construction started on the maintenance my community. Travelbuilding which will be a great asset for the ing around the state and museum. meeting other firefighters. As with any construction project, it takes What are your hopes time dealing with getting approval from the for the future? That anycity and getting the required permits. one who gets into the fire I would like to take a minute to say thank service gets the training you to the staff at the Museum and the OSFA they need to do the job safely. The training is office. They all work their tails off for the there, but it just involves members of the OSFA. It amazes me the some personal sacrifice amount of work that they get done. to get it. As a business owner, I know what it means The fire service is full to have quality people working for you, and of danger and it can take we are all fortunate to have them working for a life in a second. It takes us. So the next time you see them, tell them training to do the job thank you for what they do. Stay safe! safely so that everyone Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 5 goes home safe.
S T A T E
F I R E F I G H T E R S
A S S O C I A T I O N
127th OSFA CONVENTION
6 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Meetings - Memorial - Parade
Jim Ed Nimmo: OSFA 1st Vice President’s Report I sat down to write for this quarter and had to ask myself “who is this Tulsa FD article for?” I have to believe whoever is reading this is already either in service or retired. I can’t say I ever read an OSFA newsletter before I was a member, and I doubt many people do. Diversity has been an issue that is continually brought up in the fire service -- and every other institution in America -- since well before I started my career in ’99. The nomenclature changes every so often and identity politics can be a large part of what makes headlines these days. The truth is I don’t have the solution. I don’t think anyone does. On the paid side, I have heard that Fire Chiefs face a lot of pressure from political leaders to “make” the fire service reflect the community it serves. On the volunteer side, I suspect it is similar, but on a side of the service that doesn’t exactly have folks beating down the doors to join. I’m not sure of a solution there either. A year or so ago, we went through a class in Tulsa called “Courageous Conversations.” At the request of Chief Baker, a couple of guys came in from Georgia and basically facilitated a dialogue about the difficult
conversations surrounding race and gender in the firehouse. As you might expect if you’ve spent much time in in-service training, there wasn’t a ton of commentary from the membership. It takes a different kind of courage to put yourself out there in front of your peers. Folks tend to feel a lot more comfortable speaking their mind back in the company of their firehouse family and paradoxically, even more comfortable in the warm yet transparent blanket of their spacebook family. A generation or two past the civil rights movement, if I were pressed to predict a long-term solution in the vein of a courageous conversation, it wouldn’t be policy or politics that ultimately solves the issue. It will be family. On the paid side, legacy hires are as big a part of the equation today as they were 60 years ago. I suspect that will continue. However, the make up of an American family is not the same as it was 60 years ago, and those legacies will be different than they were even a generation ago. It could be that simple. While I’m not naïve or hypocritical enough to think that identity won’t play a role in politics 60 years from now, I hope it doesn’t.
Tony Lopez: OSFA 2nd Vice President’s Report Greetings Oklahoma Firefighters! Where has time gone? I can’t believe I’ve been on Midwest City FD the board for over a year now. I think the hardest part of being on the board is writing these articles. A lot has changed over the course of the year. I would like to congratulate Tippy for becoming the permanent executive director. I know he will do a great job. I would like to thank Eric and the Guthrie firefighters for hosting such a good convention. It was a lot of fun. It was great to have a little normalcy back. I know Cliff is already hard at work for his convention. I would also like thank Mike Kelly for his years of dedication to the board. He will be missed. I would like to welcome Donnie Bennett to the board. He will be a good addition.
This past year has been different, to say the least, but we were able to accomplish a lot of things. I would like to thank all of the committee members who dedicate so much of their time to make our organization and our jobs better. If you would like to volunteer for a committee, go to the OSFA website for more information. We are stronger when we all work together. We have the Memorial Golf Tournament and Statewide Memorial Service coming up. I hope as many can attend as possible. There have been some changes to the office staff and I know some of those decisions were very difficult, but I think sometimes change is needed to keep things working the best for our members. Both the office and museum staff work very hard for this organization. I hope everyone has a great and safe summer. Stay safe and God bless.
2021-22 OSFA EXECUTIVE BOARD PRESIDENT
Cliff Davidson
580-554-1886
davidsoncliff@yahoo.com 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Jim Ed Nimmo
918-557-8379
jimnimmo7@gmail.com
2ND VICE PRESIDENT Tony Lopez
405-739-1343
tlopez@midwestcityok.org 3RD VICE PRESIDENT Donnie Bennett
donben1889@gmail.com PAST PRESIDENT Eric Harlow
405-520-2893
ericharlow200@gmail.com
UPCOMING EVENTS Sept. 15, 2021 David Bain Fallen & Living Firefighter Memorial Golf Tournament At OKC’s Lincoln Park West Course Sept. 23, 2021 Oklahoma Public Education Summit Oct. 3, 2021 22nd Annual Oklahoma State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service At Oklahoma Firefighters Museum & Memorial Jan. 26-28, 2022 OFCA Pre-Conference Workshop & Winter Workshop At Stillwater Community Center April 11-13, 2022 100th Annual OFCA Conference Hosted by Moore FD June 7, 2022 41st Annual ORFA Convention in Enid June 8-11, 2022 128th Annual OSFA Convention in Enid Hosted by Ringwood FD
O K L A H O M A S T A T E F I R E F I G H T E R S A S S O C I A T I O N
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 7
127th OSFA CONVENTION
8 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Golf - Shooting Tourney - Picnic
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 9
10 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Donnie Bennett: OSFA 3rd Vice President’s Report
OKC FD
Congratulations and a job well done to Past President Eric Harlow, the Guthrie Fire Department, and the 2021 OSFA Convention Committee on successful convention. A special thank you to the hard-working ladies and gentlemen of the OSFA Staff. Your hard work and dedication play a large part of our organization’s success, and it does not go
unnoticed. Congratulations and a job well done to Past President Mike Kelley. You have tirelessly served as a firefighter and executive board member, and you have set a great example of what it takes to be an asset to the Oklahoma Fire Service. It was truly an honor having someone that I hold in such high esteem, assist in putting on my red jacket for the first time. You have taken care of me since I was a fire recruit, and I appreciate you seeing something in me enough to keep me around and prepare me to serve on the executive board. I have some big shoes to fill, but I won’t let you down. I have mentioned it several times throughout the past few months, but none of this would be possible if I didn’t have such a strong support system and great friends. The constant support of my Wife, IAFF Local #157, and Fire Chief Richard Kelley allows me to be present and motivates me to successfully serve firefighters across the state. I appreciate the membership of the OSFA for entrusting me to serve in this capacity. It is something that I do not take lightly. Understanding the overall commitment, I am looking forward to learning as much I can and working hard to be an asset to our organization and its future.
OKC Fire Station 31 (The Doghouse) and OKC Station 24 at a mobile home fire
Q&A with Donnie Bennett OSFA’s new 3rd VP was born in Oklahoma City and raised in Del City. He has been in the fire service for 13 years -- the first four at Broken Arrow FD and the rest at Oklahoma City FD. In a recent question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Bennett, 35, shared the following: When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter? Becoming a firefighter was a childhood dream, but I knew for sure that I wanted to become a firefighter during my freshman year in High School. How’d you go about getting into the fire service? Due to the competitiveness involved in the fire department hiring process, I furthered my education after high school by going to college, obtaining various job-related certifications and training, and worked as an EMT-Basic prior to getting hired. What do you like best about being a Firefighter? Making a difference alongside great people is definitely what I like best about being a firefighter.
Eric Harlow: OSFA Past President’s Report Greetings fellow Oklahoma Firefighters! I hope you’re all having a great summer. It’s hard to believe that convention time has come and gone. Let me tell you, four years comes quick. Once you get the honor of being elected to the 3rd Vice President spot, those Guthrie FD next few years pass by quicker than you could ever believe. Before you know, it’s time to host the convention. I hope you all enjoyed this year’s event and being in our beautiful city of Guthrie. I know that myself, our department and our city all were proud to have you with us for a few days! We hope you come back often and visit. First and foremost, I want to thank outgoing Past President Mike Kelley. I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to learn and serve with him on both the OSFA Executive Board and the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System Board of Trustees. Mike is a true leader and one of the most intelligent folks I’ve been around when it comes to talking financial matters related to our pension system. Our board is truly at a loss without him being a part of it. Thank you for all you have done, and continue to do, in support of Oklahoma’s fire service, Mike!
I want to extend a huge welcome to our newly elected 3rd Vice President, Mr. Donnie Bennett of the Oklahoma City Fire Department. Donnie has been an integral part of Local 157 along with several OSFA committees in recent years, and I know he will serve us all well in his new position. I look forward to serving with him in the next year. By the time this is published, we will have our final numbers for the pension system’s FY 21 earnings. As of today, it appears we will have a phenomenal year of growth. It seems like just yesterday we were closing in on being a $3 billion system. Today, we are knocking on the $4 billion dollar door! It’s just crazy how well the investments have done during the last year, especially considering the pandemic. In closing, I want to extend my utmost heartfelt gratitude to all who helped with convention this year -- from the Guthrie and Logan County guys, the City of Guthrie elected officials and staff, the ORFA, OFCA and OSFAWA to the OSFA staff and other departments that chipped in. Planning and hosting the annual convention is no easy task, and it is TRULY a team effort. Thank you all for the work you put in to make this a successful convention! Until next time, stay safe!
O K L A H O M A S T A T E F I R E F I G H T E R S A S S O C I A T I O N
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 11
127th OSFA CONVENTION
Awards Presented
2021 David Bain Award • Mike Bower, Midwest City FD
2021 Shey P. Francis Award • Paddy Metcalf
2021 Department/Unit Citation • Spavinaw FD
2021 First In Last Out Award 2021 Award of Merit 12 • August/September/October Bill Holman, Oklahoma City2021Oklahoma Firefighter • Alex Meron
2021 Heroism Award • Chelsee Meron 2021 Medal of Valor • Lonnie Bolar, Waynoka FD • Taylor Bradford, Waynoka FD
Tippy Pierce: OSFA Executive Director’s Report Hello to all members of the OSFA! This is our second magazine issue. I hope everyone enjoyed the first magazine as much as I did. I feel it was a great improvement from the old newspaper. It had some new things like the Oklahoma Ret. Moore FD Fire Chiefs Section. I would like to thank the OSFA board for the appointment of Executive Director after a year as the Interim Executive Director. I will try to work to help the OSFA move forward in the direction that the membership has set forth at the 127th Convention. All resolutions passed at convention, and only one was modified by the delegates. It was the dues increase, which is to start now in 2023. This was to give more time for cities and towns, to budget for this increase. All of these resolutions are on the OSFA Web site for viewing. The OSFA Board will be picking all the committee members by the time this magazine comes out or shortly thereafter. These committee and their members are the backbone of the OSFA. They do the work that helps give direction to the fire service. The David Bain Memorial Golf Tournament is Sept. 15 at Lincoln Park. It starts at 1 p.m., so call and get yourself registered early to avoid the rush! We plan to eat at the Memorial again afterwards. The Public Fire Education Summit at Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital is Sept. 23 at noon in Bethany. The Statewide Memorial Service is Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. We plan on having loved ones who have lost firefighters here, as was done two years ago. We will also be showing it on Facebook Live for those who cannot attend. We are in the process of adding names to the Wall of Valor and engraving panels for the Living section of the Memorial. We have not added names since 2016. ORFA will host its golf tournament on Oct. 20 in Shawnee, so please mark your calendar. Lunch is at noon and tee-off is 1 p.m. The first phase of the museum expansion should be under way again by the time this magazine gets to you. We have been working through a few issues but we think it is all done. We are waiting on the building permit will get issued. This project has been well over a year working through all the problems and additional changes needed by the City of Oklahoma City. Thanks for the service you provide to the cities and towns across this state as firefighters. Be safe and God Bless each and every one of you for what you do!
OSFA & Museum Staff
Meet Tippy Pierce, Executive Director of OSFA & ORFA
Tippy was born in Guymon and raised in Texhoma in the Panhandle of Oklahoma. In 1973, he joined the Texhoma (Texas) FD. In 1978, he moved to the Texhoma (Okla.) FD where he served as Fire Chief Moore FD Training Majors Mark Murdock, from 1985-88. He was Randy Lemons and Tippy hired by the Moore FD as a firefighter in 1988 and retired in 2009. Tippy has also been activley involved with the OSFA for years. He served on the Educational Advisory Committee from 1983-93; was on the Safety & Health Committee from its inception to 1994, helping write the Mission Statement for the committee; and served on the Legislative Committee from 1994-2013. Pierce also worked for the OSFA from 1988-2005. He started out mowing the lawn and helping out in the museum. By 1994, he was taking care of all the accounts as the comptroller and created the quickbooks program used for bookkeeping by the OSFA. In a recent question-and-answer Playing “cut-throat firefighter” Hearts at the station session with Oklahoma are Tippy, Lynn Miles and Ken Streeter Firefighter, Pierce, 70, shared the following: When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter? In 1962, I got a Texaco pumper. I was 11 and that was where it all started! I would fantasize about putting a fire out with my toy fire truck! What did you like best about being a firefighter? For me, it was being a part of something where you felt as a part of something bigger than yourself and had the opportunity help my fellow man! What did a year as Interim Executive Director teach you? That we have an Executive Board for the OSFA and the ORFA that cares about the fire service and the needs of all the members -- both active and retired, paid or volunteer. We service 16,000+ from 573 departments across Oklahoma.
Executive Director Tippy Pierce tippy@osfa.info
Administrative Director Sheri Nickel sherin@osfa.info
Administrative Assistant/Membership Madelyn Roth madelynr@osfa.info
Administrative Assistant/Events Shelby NeSmith shelbyn@osfa.info
Museum Director Gene Brown geneb@osfa.info
Museum Assistant Quintin James quintinj@osfa.info
Tippy with fellow Moore firefighters Shonn Neidel and Jeff Elmore
Museum Assistant Bob Noll bobn@osfa.info
Museum Assistant Brendon Pierce brendonp@osfa.info
Administrative Publications Museum Assistant Assistant Penelope Soldan Lance Gill Raegan Layne penelopes@osfa.info lanceg@osfa.info raeganl@osfa.infoOklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 13
Sheri Nickel: OSFA Administrative Director’s Report Can you imagine if all of the sudden all of our modern technology -- iPhones, cars with GPS, Bluetooth and backup camera -- or our Wi-Fi was taken away from us and we all had to revert back to what it was like 20 years Orlando FD ago? Or what if the only people allowed on fire departments were white males, the way it was back in the 1950s? While some of us remember those days and would willingly survive and reminisce about the good ol’ days and how times were simpler, some of us would freak out and be miserable. While we all walk around being cool with our fancy iPhones, we need to step back and think about the guy who invented these contraptions -- Steve Jobs. But, without Adele Goldberg, the Apple may not be what it is today. Goldberg was the lone woman among a group of men who, in the 1970s, together, built programming language and developed the infrastructure that was the basis of what we use today.
Who do we have to thank for hybrid car batteries? Here’s a bit of history you may or may not Annie Easley, an know about your association: African-American woman who worked for NASA and At the 34th OSFA Convention developed and implemented code that in 1928, women attending the led to the development of the battery event held a meeting to discuss used in the first hybrid cars. organizing a Women’s Auxiliary. Leonard da Vinci, who painted the The next day, their request Mona Lisa, a renaissance man, a genius to become affiliated with the of art, science and engineering, as well firemen’s association was unanias Michelangelo, sculptor of monumously granted. mental male nudes, are both thought The OSFA Women’s Auxiliary to be gay. held its 89th Convention in June. You may be scratching your head, wondering why I bring up these peo Serving multiple terms as OSFAWA President ple who aren’t related to the fire service in any way. It is to simply point out 1929 & 1931 Mrs. E.H. Miller, McAlester that the diversity of people in society 1939 & 1949 Mrs. Gene Cook, Blackwell throughout time have made a great 1941-46 Mrs. George Stewart, Tulsa impact on who we are today. 1955-56 Mrs. H.O. Whittenton, Sapulpa OSFA has more diverse leadership 1973 & 1976 Mrs. Doug (Glenna) Herren, MWC right now than any other time in the 1977 & 1979 Mrs. John (Lucy) Hardin, Bethany 127-year history of the organization. 1981 & 2011 Mrs. Jerry (Susan) Abraham, Lawton We are a political organization that 1994 & 2012 Mrs. Tippy (Martha) Pierce, Moore has become accustomed to accepting 2004 & 2017 Mrs. Dana (Diana) Cramer, Norman the difference between political parties 2014 & 2021 Mrs. Yogi (Michele) Cole, Tulsa but hasn’t ever welcomed men and women with different ethical identities to the table like we are right now. People who are different from one another in race, gender and other dimensions bring unique information and experiences to bear on the task at hand. Diversity enhances creativity. It encourages the search for fresh information and perspectives, hopefully leading to better decision making and problem solving. We have already started sailing our ship in a different direction with the introduction of the Oklahoma Firefighter magazine and the creation of our new website that will soon offer improved ways of renewing membership or registering for events. We are busy digitizing historical records and updating our data base to be as accurate as possible. Understanding the needs of all of our members has become more important than ever and we are utilizing the talent in all of our employees, board members and committee members to embrace the diversity of our membership and offer a more modern approach to how we do things. Have we cracked the code on diversity and inclusion within this organization? Depends on which perspective you take when forming your opinion. What if the rainbow of historical figures didn’t get a chance to speak up and offer their ideas to make our lives easier? I am most certain that most of us don’t even want to think about Beutel Goodman is a proud supporter of the fighting fire like they did 20-30 years ago. Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Diversity isn’t just about gender or race. It’s also about diversity of background and mindset. We are building relationships that haven’t traditionally been formed and, with that, we are able to offer more opportunities for our members. We are stepping outside of the comfort zone and developing a new energy that may be more attractive to firefighters whom have www.beutelgoodman.com never realized the value of the Association.
OSFA ARCHIVE
Your Success is Our Success.
14 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
MARK YOUR CALENDARS & MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND
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EVTCC TEST: October 15 • 4 p.m. At Edmond Fire Training Center Proctor: Brent Pierce, OKC Fire Maintenance
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Applications Avaiable at www.okevt.org or any OAEVT Officer Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 15
Corey Conrady: The Rural Firefighter This article is dedicated to all fire departments, not just rural, and the kinds of things we deal with as firefighters who live and serve in the communities we live and have grown up in. Just the other day, I was talking with another firefighter who stated “if I had to do it again, I would not work in the town I grew up in, it’s too hard to see the kids and families I know. But on Drummond FD the flip side, it’s great being there to help your friends and family.” Myself, as a young firefighter, I responded to people that I knew or went to school with, the families I went to church with, and their emergencies. The role of a rural firefighter is twofold -- one, to live and interact in the community and two, to serve and support that community. In my career I have been witness to the breaking of a community when a tragedy happens, within the families of that community. The grieving process the whole town goes through, the recovery, and healing process. However, we as the fire service still have a looming cloud over our heads -- line of duty suicides. Several sources below show a growing problem, caused by the things we see, the scenes and how they affect us, and the emotional and mental stress they put on us. USA Today reported that 103 firefighters and 140 police officers died by suicide in 2017, compared to 93 firefighter and 129 officer line-of-duty deaths. According to an article in Law Enforcement Today, “PTSD and depression rates among firefighters and police officers have been found to be as much as five times higher than the rates within the civilian population, which causes these first responders to commit suicide at a considerably higher rate (firefighters: 18/100,000; police officers: 17/100,000; general population 13/100,000).” Warning signs are changes in behavior that include: • Isolation and withdrawal • Aggression • Difficulty sleeping • Changes in mood • Loss of interest in activities • Acting reckless • Overreacting to criticism • Difficulties at work • Discipline issues • Giving away possessions • Ending significant relationships • Humiliation and irritability • Loss of confidence in abilities and skills • Retirement • Tardiness, absenteeism, and poor work performance • Neglecting appearance • Writing a will or buying insurance • Making funeral arrangements • Additionally, while alcohol is a risk factor, alcohol use may also serve as a warning sign. So, what do we do? How do we help our brothers and sisters? 1) First, as officers, we need to educate ourselves on the facts about suicides in the fire service. 2) We need to educate our firefighters and EMS personnel about suicides, the causes, what the signs are, and where and 16 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Meet Corey Conrady, a volunteer with Drummond Fire Department since 1999. He is a member of the OSFA Educational Advisory Committee and will be submitting a regular column for Oklahoma Firefighter. When asked what his column should be called, Corey said, “What do you think about The Rural Firefighter? “My focus would be on the struggles of rural firefighters, their families and the departments across the state -- budget, personnel, vehicle, geography and other issues.”
how they can get help for each other. 3) Remember, “Leaders, Lead from the front.” As officers, we need to be open about our experiences with hard calls and how they affected us. We want to give firefighters permission to open up and talk about what they’ve gone through or are experiencing. When leaders talk about it first, it provides “cover” for others to talk freely. 4) Depression, PTSD, and suicide are NOT SIGNS of weakness. As officers, we need to hammer this message home. 5) The best way to communicate all of this to firefighters is through stories. When you tell a story about a call, how it affected you, and what you did about it (or didn’t) is how we learn. 6) Have an informal and formal process for firefighters to get help. Most importantly, make sure that peer counseling is available. Firefighters (like police and military) are reluctant to talk to individuals who don’t “get it.” Talking to other firefighters is more comfortable and often more productive. 7) For those who need to talk to a behavioral healthcare professional, the National Volunteer Fire Council maintains a directory of local providers who are ready and equipped to help first responders. Providers are vetted and either have firsthand experience with the emergency services or have taken a course through the FBHA. The directory is updated monthly as more providers are added. 8) Our responsibility is to ensure that there is no bullying, abuse, or sexual harassment in our departments. They have no place in a professional volunteer department. If you need immediate support: • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255 (or go to the web site for chat) • National Helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) • Crisis Text Line is available by texting HOME to 741741 • OSFA will respond with help within 48 hours. Call the OSFA office at 405-424-1452 or Executive Director Tippy Pierce at 405-924-1104 • Or call or text me anytime: Corey Conrady, 580-540-0970
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Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 17
Firefighters who gave the supreme sacrifice have the special and most honored space at the Memorial on The Wall of Valor.
ENGRAVINGS
ON THE WALL
Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial
All Oklahoma firefighters who have served their communities
Over 1,750 names will be engraved on the
for more than 20 years or has had to retire due to an in line of duty disability and are members of an OSFA-member
Memorial Wall this year. If your name does not come up in the search, please check the current engraving list. If you still do not see your name, contact our office.
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE OSFA.INFO/MUSEUM/MEMORIAL
FIND YOUR NAME
Any firefighter who falls into one of the above categories can now use our website to
MEMORIAL
department are recognized.
SEARCH
COMING SOON
find their name on the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial Wall.
2021 Ride To Remember - Riders stop at Firefighters Museum
Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired
18 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Gene Brown: Oklahoma Firefighters Museum Report
I hope everyone had a great time at convention. It was great to see everyone there. We had a great time. In case you have not heard, our fund raising is going great. The Ride to Remember made $14,000. Ret. The Village FD WCWS parking made $43,804. We have been working hard to make our museum the best it can be. The new shop is still in the works. We hope to start construction very On Display at Oklahoma soon. Firefighters Museum It has been a long road, but we are looking forward to getting it underway. We are making progress on the Hollis Truck. It looks very good. We are having trouble finding a wheel for it. When we do, that will really help with completion of this project. With the Memorial Service on Oct 3, plans are underway to make sure it is a great success. Thanks to the hard work of everyone here in the museum, we are moving forward. Please come see us at Fully Functional Gamewell your museum. Alarm System, circa 1900 Stay safe!
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Proud Supporter of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Oklahoma Firefighters Museum was featured on a recent episode of “Discover Oklahoma!” We are thankful our friends chose us to discover and we hope you will, too! If your family, friends or a group (scouts possibly) would like to take a field trip, please consider the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum. This special place respects and shares the history of our fire service.
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 19
40th OSFA CONVENTION
June 8, 2021 in Guthrie
79 delegates and 41 guests representing 21 cities & towns
Inaugural Fire Mark Award • T. Dick Cagle, Tulsa FD Retired “My biggest highlight at the ORFA Convention was the two new awards that were given -- T. Dick Cagle the Fire Mark Award and George Fina the Flambeaux Award. Both awards feature a slab of granite from the Murrah bombing.” -- Tippy Pierce, Executive Director
Inaugural Flambeaux Award • George Fina, OKC FD Retired
20 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Governor Stitt with ORFA Executive Board
2021-22 ORFA Executive Board
Yogi Cole: ORFA Report At this year’s convention, it was decided to raise our membership dues to $3 a month or $36.00 a year. The last increase was in Ret. Tulsa FD 2000 and I believe that we just simply waited to long which put us in a catch-up mode. The cost of doing regular business had increased to the point that we were forced to ask for an increase. We expended funds supporting a COLA for our members and, in the last legislative session, we were suddenly faced with an attack on our Pension System by at least two state Senators. We realized that we could no longer put off a dues increase if we were going to be able to help defend our pension system with the OSFA. The fact is that our system was the best performing system in the state in the last fiscal year and is one of the best performing public pension systems in the country. We are not fully funded but we are moving in the right direction. I have been to two Pension Board meetings and I am extremely impressed with the team that manages our funds. One bill last year would have reduced
the number of firefighters that serve on this board. That would be a mistake. Some of the non firefighters on this board have stated that they are impressed with the firefighter members because they are extremely professional, diligent and do an outstanding job of conducting business. So why change? These are some of the known issues that we may be facing at the next legislative session. Your membership is vital! Our membership committee has restarted since it was shut down due to Covid 19. Doc Reynolds is our new 3rd VP and is heading up that committee and is making plans to travel around the state to encourage new membership and to help setup local chapters where needed. These retiree chapters could be by city or even county wide. These chapters could give you another way to get involved and receive information. If you have an interest please contact us and we will walk you through the process. I hope everyone is doing well. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.
PRESIDENT A.K. “Yogi” Cole, Tulsa ycole@ipa.net 1ST VICE PRESIDENT James Fullingim, Norman nfdchief@hotmail.com 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Mike Duncan, Dewey mduncan51@aol.com
3RD VICE PRESIDENT Dr. Erick “Doc E” Reynolds, Milfay rerick@osufpp.org PAST PRESIDENT George Fina, OKC gomsoc38@gmail.com
Q&A with Dr. Erick Reynolds ORFA’s new 3rd VP was raised in Fredonia, Kan., and attended NOC and OSU. He spent 12 years in the fire Ret. Milfay FD service, both as a volunteer and a Fire Chief. In a recent question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Reynolds, 63, shared the following: When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter? A man asked me to volunteer, and about that time the tone went off, so I went with to a fire and I was hooked from that point on. What were some highlights of your fire service career? Developing the fire training center and training several hundred firefighters along the way. Why did you run for the ORFA Board? I want to help make a difference for the retired volunteers.
In Memoriam ORFA Past Presidents Bud Shepherd and Tim Ford passed away in May 2021. They will be deeply missed. Bud Shepherd, Slaughterville FD The Final Fire Alarm sounded for retired Slaughterville Fire Chief Bud Shepherd on May 1. He was 84. Bud was with Slaughterville FD from 1977-2002, serving as Chief for all but two of those years. Even after retiring, he continued to give of his time and knowledge to the department until his passing. He was ORFA President in 2008 and served on many committees for the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association over the years. Bud married the love of his life, Vonda Brown, in 1960, and they would have celebrated 61 years together this year. Vonda served as OSFA Women’s Auxiliary President in 2002.
Tim Ford, Nichols Hill FD The Final Fire Alarm sounded for retired Nichols Hills FD Captain Tim Ford on May 28. He was 85. Tim was a member of the Nichols Hills Fire Department for over 23 year. He also taught rural fire training for OSU for 7 years and was with central Oklahoma Risk Management services for another 8 years. In 1999, he served as ORFA President. He was the designated golf cart driver for the staff photographer at OSFA Conventions. And for 15 years, he served on the ORFA’s Memorial Honor Guard with Clifford Lewis. Tim was a survivor of the OKC Alfred P. Murrah Building. He was also an OU football season ticket holder for over 50 years.
On April 25 at Boise City FD, the active firefighters treated their retired firefighters to great steaks and great company.
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Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 21
89th OSFA WOMEN’S AUXILIARY CONVENTION
Governor Stitt with OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Executive Board
22 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Haley Thompson: OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Report Hello Ladies! Firstly, I would like to thank Chief Harlow and the Guthrie Fire Department for hosting this past convention. It was a wonderful time! I would also like to thank the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Women’s Auxiliary for electing me as their newest Junior Board Member. I am honored to be able to serve on the board. Now, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Haley Thompson and I am married to Terrell Thompson who is a Corporal at the El Reno Fire Department. I work as an office manager for a commercial plumbing company. This fall, I will be busy starting back to school for a mechanical engineering degree. I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two wonderful fur babies – Layla and Ember. We love going to any sports events, especially professional baseball teams. Go Cubs! My husband and I live in Slaughterville and enjoy our little slice of farm life with cows, horses, a mini donkey, dogs and cats. There, I serve in the Ladies’ Auxiliary for Slaughterville FD, as my fatherin-law (David Thompson) is the chief. 2021-22 Women’s Aux I began participating in events for the Slaughterville Executive Board Ladies’ Auxiliary in 2018 and realized what a great impact PRESIDENT Ashley Corbett the auxiliary played when ashleyc814@att.net a fundraiser raised enough money to buy all new WildVICE PRESIDENT land gear for 25 guys! Kendra Engle I have been fortunate and kedamo10@yahoo.com have been able to see how beneficial a local auxiliary is SECRETARY/TREASURER to the fire department and Courtney Thompson the community. I have seen courtneythompson524@gmail.com the auxiliary bring the comJR BD MEMBER munity together in the good Haley Thompson and the bad times. hthomp933@gmail.com I have been a member of the OSFA Women’s Auxiliary PAST PRESIDENT since I married my husband Michele Cole in 2019. momachel@aol.com Although I have not been a part of the OSFAWA for a long time, I have seen the amazing work that has been done in just a few short years. I have seen thousands of dollars donated to various charities, and being a part that has truly been a fulfilling experience. This year, we gained some new members, and hopefully by next year, we will have a few more local auxiliaries to add to our state auxiliary. The OSFAWA is already working hard in planning some surprises for convention next year! If you are looking for information on starting your own local auxiliary, you can contact any board member. As summer comes to a close and a fall rolls in, we remember the brave firefighters that we have lost this year. The Oklahoma State Firefighters Memorial will be Oct. 3. If you have never been, it is truly a humbling experience, and it is in my opinion one of the best ways I have ever seen to honor the sacrifices that the firefighters and their families have made throughout their careers. I hope to see you there!
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Question & Answers Oklahoma Firefighter asked last issue’s readers this question: What’s the most annoying piece of equipment you deal with regularly? Here is what they said: w Eldon Henderson, Ret. Enid: My computer. Failed OS and software updates, broken hardware, internet outages and system crashes -- the use of this essential piece of equipment can be very annoying. w Darren Alexander, Cedar Country: Radios. Any type of communication equipment. Thinking about putting in old school CBs. w Greg Lindsay, OKC: The clock. Is there ever enough time? w Michael Pettey, Fort Supply: I would have to say the infamous DEAD 6x6 batteries that were fine the day before. w Rick Chisum, Okmulgee: A dying ink pen on a walkthrough inspection. Checked at the office, works fine and no back up. Tenant offers you their pen ... to write them up on corrections. w Tom Marcum, Mooreland: At my previous job, the ladies at the front counter banned me from the postage machine. We all swore that thing hated me! w Jeremy Goodrich, Yukon: Computer and the programs that come with them. Most are not user friendly it seems. w Greg Roberts, Ret. Norman: Electronics connected with the pumps on fire apparatus. w Randy Rose, Ret. OKC: Any computer. They are a pain in the back side! w Craig Hannan, Fire Protection Publications: Does bureaucracy count? w Greg Herbster, Moore: By far, it is my computer. We have a love-hate relationship. I can’t live with it and can’t live without it! w Bert Norton, Midwest City: The copy machine. It always seems to jam up when I am trying to print something. w Kara Owens, Piedmont: It would be electronics -- it seems like you always have to update them or something is always going on with the electronic device/equipment. w Donnie Bennett, OKC: My wireless keyboard. It’s temperamental, but it’s a necessary evil. w Yogi Cole, Ret. Tulsa: An out-of-date computer. w Craig Carruth, Mustang: Well, that would have to be my computer, or should I say my old computer. Now that I have a new one, I may need to update my annoying list. w Colton Castle, Jet: I do not believe there is an annoy piece of fire equipment. Every tool has a specific task it is to be used for and we need to know how to use it correctly.
Next Issue’s Question -“What chore do you absolutely hate doing? Everyone is Welcome to Participate!
Email Your Response to penelopes@osfa.info
24 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Meet the 2021 Stavros Scholarship Recipients The Pete and Lela Stavros Scholarship Foundation was established in 2002. And when the first scholarships were awarded in 2004, five recipients received $500 to help with college expenses. This year, five $2,000 scholarships were awarded. The deserving five were picked from a total of 35 applicants.
Tammy Abbott Shattuck High School Daughter of Timothy Abbott, Shattuck Volunteer FD Retired Major: Nursing at West Texas A&M University “Being able to say that I have ties to the Oklahoma Fire Service is an honor to me. It take brave men and women to do that kind of work, and being able to say my brother is a firefighter and my dad is a retired firefighter makes me extremely proud. “In Shattuck and other small communities, firefighters are all volunteers. This shows how much these men and women care for their communities and the people within them.” Sierra Campbell Grove High School Daughter of Justin Campbell, Grove FD Major: Biology at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah “Through my dad’s involvement within the Oklahoma Fire Service, I have not only gained friends that are more like family, but I have truly learned the significance of putting others before yourself. I have watched my dad countless times leave family events to go offer lifesaving help to whomever needed it. “My plans after graduating college is to attend medical school and become a physician in rural Oklahoma. Emily Foraker
Comanche High School Daughter of Joshua Foraker, Duncan FD Major: Nursing at University of Oklahoma “My dad has been a firefighter for 17 years, so firefighting has always been a big part of my life. He loves his job and is passionate about helping people. “People come up to me all the time and tell me that they know my dad because of something he has done for them or because he ran on one of their calls and helped them, and I always feel so proud of him when I hear that.”
Ethan Hernandez Harding Preparatory High School Grandson of Rick Pate, Sand Springs FD Retired Major: Computer Science at Oklahoma State University “I am very proud to have had a family member firefighter. He has brought some much-needed insight into the lives of the folks people usually overlook until catastrophe strikes. “My goal is to be able to develop artificial intelligence that will have a great impact in the medical field and also offer convenience for the general public.” Emmitt Wilk Washington High School Son of Jonathan Wilk, Norman FD Major: Engineering at University of Tulsa “Having this scholarship is an honor because of the origin of it. My father was a firefighter, as well as my grandfathers. We are proud of our family’s history in this field. “My career goals include going into petroleum engineering. I have always been fascinated with pipelines, how they work, how they are made, what it takes to run them, and the different types there are.”
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Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 25
FIRSTS in the OKLAHOMA FIRE SERVICE (Compiled from Media Reports)
n Donnie Bennett - First Black member of Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Executive Board (elected 3VP in June 2021) n Norita Bridges - One of First 2 Female Tulsa Firefighters (joined in August 1991) n Debbie Brooks - First Female Guymon Volunteer Firefighter (joined in early 2000s) n James Coffey - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Henry L. Collier - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) n Cecil Dixon - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Cledella Evans-Stearns - First Black Female Tulsa Firefighter (joined in 2001) n Herbert Ford - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Tiara Ford - First Female Hominy Firefighter (joined in April 2019) n Melvin A. Franklin - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Raymond Gates - First Black Lawton Firefighter (joined in Sept. 1971) n Kristina Good - First Female Lawton Firefighter (joined in Sept. 2013) n Milton T. Goodwin - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) n Clifford Harn - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) n Cathy Hayes - First Female OKC District Chief of Operations (joined Oklahoma City FD in 1996) n Carl Holmes - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Greta Hurt - First Female District Chief, First Female Training Officer, First Female Fire Investigator and First Female Staff Officer for Tulsa FD n Jayci Jacks - First Female Norman Firefighter (joined in Nov. 2019) n Willard Jenkins - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Cassy Juarez - First Female Stillwater Firefighter (joined in Jan. 2011) n Karen Kirkham - First Female OKC Firefighter (joined in February 1985) n Debra Kuffel - One of First 2 Female Tulsa Firefighters (joined in Aug. 1991) n Algie Lawrence - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Clifford R. Lewis - First Native American ORFA President (2001) n Julie Lynn - First Female State Fire Marshal Commission Committee Chairman (appointed to commission in May 2019) n Marvin O. Nelson - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Sheri Nickel - First Female and First Native American Director at OSFA (Nov. 2018) and First Female Firefighter and Fire Chief at Shattuck FD n Jan Polhemus - First Female to retire from Oak Cliff FD (retired in 2015 after serving 23 years) n Caroline Reed - First Female Director for OSU Fire Service Training (appointed November 2019) n Angie Retzlaff - First Female Tahlequah Firefighter (joined May 2021) n Juan Rodriguez - First Hispanic OSFA President (2006) and First Hispanic ORFA President (2019) n Carlos Rodriguez - One of first 2 Hispanic Guymon Volunteer Firefighters (joined in January 2003) n Edward K. Russell - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Darbie Salamanca Barbie - First Female Latina Guymon Volunteer Firefighter (joined in June 2016) n Kellie Sawyers - First Female Chief, First Female Deputy Chief and First Female Fire Marshal for Oklahoma City FD and First Female President of Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association (2016) n Robert L. Shanks - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) n Maximino Soto - One of first 2 Hispanic Guymon Volunteer Firefighters (joined in January 2003) n Cleatus Q. Stephens - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) n Merle Stripling - One of First 6 Black Tulsa Firefighters (joined in 1956) and First Black Tulsa District Fire Chief n Bob Summers - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n Larissa Upton - First Female Eufaula Firefighter (joined in Feb. 2021) n Charles Q. Wright - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) n James H. Young - One of First 12 Black OKC Firefighters (joined in 1951) If you know of anyone who should be added to this list, please email penelopes@osfa.info
26 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
is a FACT.
DIVERSE
versu
DIVERSITY refers to people of different ages, cultural backgrounds, physical abilities, genders, religions, personalities, educational backgrounds, skills sets, sexual orientation, and more.
IN ar op de
Actions to Create an Inclusive Department: • Empowerment: Encourage your team to learn new skills, bring ideas to the table, and solve problems. Provide opportunities for growth.
•
• Respect. Treat others as you want them to treat you. Learn from different points of view and seek to understand. Handle disagreements in a constructive and professional manner.
•
• Equity. Different people need different things to reach the same goal or demonstrate a skill. As long as the job gets done and safety protocols are followed, it is okay to make adjustments for differences such as height or strength.
Benefits to a Diverse & Inclusive Department: • Strengthens our organization • Builds better communities • Helps with recruitment and retention • Enables effective communication • Helps us meet our mission
• •
Diversity & Inclusion on Display at OSFA
is an ACT.
us
INCLUSIVE
NCLUSION is an environment where all individuals re treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to pportunities and resources, and contribute fully to the epartment’s success.
Accountability. Take responsibility for your decisions and performance. Have pride in your successes, learn from mistakes, and be open to criticism in areas you can improve. Acceptance. Make room for everyone in your department. Each individual brings skills, knowledge, and experience that can benefit the team.
By Penelope Soldan, Oklahoma Firefighter Editor OSFA is evolving. Gone are the days when membership was limited to white males. The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association currently includes a black male executive board member, a Hispanic male executive board member and a Native American female director. There’s also a member fire department in NE Oklahoma with a Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief who are white gay males. And females - gay and straight - also hold membership cards. OSFA is all about diversity and inclusion nowadays. In 1951, however, the association would not accept the dues for Oklahoma City FD’s first 12 black firefighters. They did become members two years later, although there is still an “x” next to their names in the 1953 OSFA records book denoting “colored firefighters.” “I was blown away when I saw that,” said OSFA Executive Director Tippy Pierce, who was born in 1951 and became a volunteer firefighter at Texhoma in 1973. “That just shows you how far we’ve come.” Today’s OSFA is an equal opportunity association that works to protect and improve the Oklahoma Fire Service. Meet a few members who are helping pave the way for other minorities in the Oklahoma Fire Service. Their stories are featured on the next few pages.
Oklahoma City FD’s First Black Firefighters
Camaraderie. Lift up instead of tear down. Remember that we are all on the same team. Help each other out. Courage. Stand up for what you think is right, even when it means taking a risk. Try to find others who can support you.
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 27
Donnie Bennett Sees Positive Changes in Oklahoma Fire Service At the 127th OSFA Convention, es for people who might otherwise be excluded or Oklahoma City FD captain Donnie marginalized. Knowing and understanding the histoBennett became the first black male ry of the OSFA and Oklahoma Fire Service, we have elected to the Executive Board. definitely grown in the right direction, but we still And he is pleased with what is have plenty of work to do when it comes to diversity taking place in the OSFA and Oklaand inclusion. homa Fire Service. “We must open our minds and understand that “I personally find inspiration in talent comes in many forms, and that an individual’s seeing those who have historically work ethic, skill set and intelligence are the qualities been excluded excel, because I unthat truly improve our organizations.” derstand the conscientious work ethic that is required of these individuals to even be In 2016, OKC FD’s Retired Assistant Chief Carl Holmes was honored with State Resolution 85 considered,” he said. congratulating him on receiving the 2016 CFSI/Motorola Solutions Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership “My fire department role models consist Award. Also in attendance were, from left, Sergeant Javvero Baker, Captain Donnie Bennett, of a passionate group of men and women Retired Deputy Major Norris Wilson, Corporal Luvell Spratt III and Corporal Evelyn Taylor. from several different ethnic groups and backgrounds, all of which have poured into their peers with the overall goal of leaving ‘the job’ better than they found it. “This being said, I truly hope that I can be a role model for all firefighters, regardless of their ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, religion, etc., and inspire and awaken firefighters to new possibilities.” Donnie’s introduction to the fire service was his uncle Anthony Wilson (Edmond FD Retired). It was the friendships that his uncle and co-workers maintained on and off duty that inspired him to become a firefighter. And Donnie understands the importance of diversity and inclusion. “Diversity is the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different backgrounds,” he said. “Inclusion is the practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resourc-
Juan Rodriguez Actively Recruited Minorities for Lawton FD in 1990s Juan Rodriguez is the first Hispanic President of the OSFA (2006) and ORFA (2019). He said he never really felt like a minority, but he certainly saw the importance of diversity in the Oklahoma Fire Service. “In the early 1990s, the state legislature passed an amendment to the FPAA where interest arbitrations could be contested by the cities and brought as a citywide vote to the citizens,” Juan said. “I learned then that in order to win a citywide vote, we needed more diversity. “Afterwards, me and some other union representatives actively recruited minorities. It was difficult. I went to churches and barber shops. I feel like I failed. I felt like they looked at me as if I was a Martian. “Youngsters look much closer to home when they are looking for a role model. If they don’t know any role models in their own neighborhood, it is hard to inspire them to come be a firefighter with you.” 28 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
As a young boy, Juan dreamed of becoming a firefighter. And after high school, he went and took tests for the Lawton FD along with a very close friend. His friend was the grandson of Harris Hancock, the longest serving Lawton Fire Chief. Juan did well on the tests -- his friend did not. So at age 19, Juan joined Lawton FD on July 12, 1982. He retired from there as Assistant Chief on June 27, 2013 -- 15 days shy of 31 years. “The simple truth is I never acted like a minority because I never felt like one,” said Juan, who was born in Munich, Germany, and is also part German. “I was competitive in sports, as well as academics. I was also an army brat surrounded by many nationalities throughout my early childhood. “I was never taught about different races as a child and I didn’t differentiate on my own. I felt like we were all in the same boat and only achievement differentiated us. I still believe that.”
Sheri Nickel Took OSFA Director Job to Help All Oklahoma Firefighters
Norita Bridges Believes Firefighters Are Best Judged By Their Strengths
Even before attending her first fire department meeting for Breckinridge VFD in 2000, Sheri dove into an EMT class. And she continues to do all she can for the Oklahoma Fire Service, currently serving as the first female and first Native American Director at OSFA. Sheri was also the first female firefighter and Fire Chief for Shattuck FD, and she has been a volunteer firefighter at Orlando since March 2020. “I am proud to be included in the progress that is being made in today’s society,” Sheri said. “I know there is some history dating back into the 1950s with the OSFA not allowing anyone but white men to be a part of the association. But I don’t feel like any discrimination has been intentional in the recent past. We are just at a good time right now and are fortunate to have the diversity that we do. “And I don’t make decisions based on whether it benefits women or not. I make decisions based on how it helps firefighters. I understand that we are women in a male’s world, and I have no problem with that. I never have tried to be as strong as a man and I am confident that there are a lot of things that women can do on a fire department that men would rather not. “I also believe that a volunteer fire department can utilize talents found in most everyone who wants to be on the fire department. Not everyone can do everything, and if you mentor your people, then you can usually utilize them in one way or another.
Norita Bridges considers herself super lucky that the Tulsa FD took a chance on her. She was one of the first two female Tulsa firefighters to join the department in 1991, and August marks 30 years for her there. “I strive every day to be a mentally and physically strong fireman,” she said. “If any prospective firefighters were to look at me as an example, I hope they see how important it is to work every day on physical fitness and strength. I hope they also see the importance of being mentally strong, able to hump up and do your job and not let your emotions rule you.” Norita hopes those are the qualities that other firefighters see in her. Things like sex, race, etc., she believes, should never be considered when evaluating a firefighter candidate. “Diversity and inclusiveness is great as long as it doesn’t prevent the fire service from doing its job,” Norita said. “The fire service needs physically strong and mentally resilient recruits. “My mom’s cousin died from her injuries sustained in an apartment fire. I doubt she cared that the first arriving company was diverse as she begged dispatch for someone to save her. I doubt she cared that the crew that did come to her aid was actually white males. “I’m guessing all she really cared about was that two firemen had the mental and physical fortitude to brave the heat, hump up and do their jobs to get her out.”
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 29
Adjunct Instructor Cathy Hayes Sees Former Students Become Firefighters Cathy Hayes has achieved a lot in her 24 years departments around the state.” with the Oklahoma City FD. Cathy currently manages the busiest fire district in She has helped professionally develop recruits Oklahoma City with six fire stations, 13 apparatus and 45 to seasoned officers through developing SOPs. personnel under her leadership. She has served on numerous committees. And in And without diversity and inclusion, Cathy does not believe 2015, she became the first female promoted to the she would have such a rewarding career. rank of District Chief in Fire Operations. “I have seen a lot in the past 24 years in the fire service when And Cathy continues to give back to the fire it comes to lack of diversity and inclusion,” she said “From my service by serving standpoint in our department, we are as an adjunct instrucchanging the culture for the better. We tor for Eastern Oklahoma County have focused on mentoring and discussCathy Hayes with some of the firefighters she works with on District 606 Blue Shift Technology Center. She also helped ing our values and are witnessing our develop and coordinates Camp firefighters use those values. Inferno, an annual event that encour“There is improved decision making, ages, empowers and educates women improved recruitment, improved relaabout the fire service profession. tions with the community when private “As an adjunct instructor, it is great and public entities embrace diversity seeing former students get on fire and inclusion within their respective departments around the state,” she professions. said. “The fire service has given me “I believe diversity and incluso much, and I absolutely love what I sion brings positive benefits to the fire do. Teaching fire and EMS courses to service. It creates a work environment the next generation of firefighters is that is efficient, cohesive and a culture an honor! that follows the department’s vision, “Camp Inferno is another way mission and values. that lets me give back. Young women “Is that not what we want from get to dress in full PPE and perform our firefighters while working on an many of the skills of a firefighter. This emergency scene, or while1 working ai162215494180_AlgerAD_OK FireFighterColor.pdf 5/27/21 6:35 event has been successful in that past around the station, or interacting with participants have been hired on fire the public?”
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Camp Inferno is the Reason Jayci Jacks Became a Firefighter Camp Inferno was created by female firefighters to inspire young women to seek career opportuities in firefighting, law enforcement and EMS. Jayci Jacks attended the annual event a few years back, and now she is the only female currently serving on the Norman FD. She is also Native American/Caucasian and married her wife in March 2021. “It never occurred to me growing up that I could be a firefighter,” said Jayci, who grew up in the small southeastern Oklahoma town of Antlers. “No one ever told me that I couldn’t be a firefighter, but I never saw a female being represented in that way, so I never really thought about it until I became an adult. “It wasn’t until I met my wife’s best friend and she was actually going through the process of becoming a firefighter and started to tell me all of what she was doing, that I thought, ‘what if that was me?’ I wanted to have a job that was physically challenging to me while also letting me be a part of my community and be part of a team. So I enrolled in classes to get my EMT. “I also applied to and was selected to join Camp Inferno to get hands-on training and interaction with other female firefighters to see if this could be something I would be good at. After that, there was no looking back. I began to apply at a couple of departments and was hired on at Norman FD. I’ve been loving my job ever since. “A special thanks to all the women who put on Camp Inferno.” Jayci was hired on at Norman FD with 15 men. They spent
4-and-a-half months together in academy and earned their Fire Firefighter 1 certification, as well as a plethora of rescue certifications such as Ropes 1 & 2, Boat Ops, Swift Water Rescue, trench, Auto Extrication and red cards for Wildland Fires. “I can only speak from my own experience, but my brothers at the NFD have been pretty great to me, for the most part,” Jayci said. “I say for the most part not because anyone is unkind or unwelcoming, but because there are always going to be a few who are trying to figure out the best way to relate and communicate in a way that maybe they haven’t had to in the past. And that’s OK. That’s what it’s all about. I truly believe that this career is a calling. “As far as inclusivity goes, Norman FD has made me feel welcomed and included, hands down. And I’m very appreciative and blessed to call them my family.” Jayci with “three guys who invest in me to constantly make me a better firefighter.” From left are Firefighter Lance Lasley, Captain Jesse Mitchell, Jayci and Driver/Engineer Kyle Bernhardt.
Zackary Turley is proud to serve Quapaw Nation Fire/EMS Firefighting is something Zackary Turley has been around his entire life. His dad was with Miami FD in northeast Oklahoma. So Zackary joined Quapaw Nation Fire/EMS and served 11 years as a firefighter/paramedic and two years as Emergency Medical Services. Now he is an elected official for Quapaw Nation and works directly with Fire/EMS, Emergency Management and the Marshal Service. “We are honored to be a member of the OSFA,” said Zackary, a Native American and a member of the Quapaw Nation. “As a tribal fire department, we have been looked at differently than most departments. “Our department was started in early 2008, and I think a lot of people thought the tribe was going to try to take over the area. That hasn’t been the case, though. “We have developed great relationships with the surrounding area departments. We work with them to provide training opportunities and have mutual aid agreements with almost everyone in the county. Our county has a lot of rural areas, so adding five ALS ambulances to the area has cut response times down and been a benefit to the citizens of the county. And we have been working over the last few years to get into the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension System. This would be great for our firefighters.”
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Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 31
Todd Owens Formed Owens & Co and Patrick Kelley Joined Him
Greta Hurt Gained ‘Celebrity Status’ as a Firefighter
Todd Owens and his family saw a need for a fire department in the NE Oklahoma town of Vera. So they started one in 1991. Owens & Co currently has 11 active firefighters, two auxiliary and one chaplain. Todd has been Owens & Co Fire Chief for all 30 years of its existence. Patrick Kelley has been with the departPatrick Kelley ment for 21 years and currently serves as Assistant Fire Chief. And Todd and Patrick have been together since 1999 and married since 2014. Asked what he thought of the diversity and inclusion in the OSFA and Oklahoma Fire Service, Todd said, “Currently it is great. Of course, it took years to get to the place we are today. “I would hope that I have inspired others to be who they are, with hard work and training.” On the subject of being a possible role model for other gay firefighters, Patrick said, “I always tried my best to work as hard as I could at the station, on calls and at training. I think when you do the job, it inspires others to follow.” Todd was also a paid firefighter at NW Rogers County Fire Protection District prior to starting his own department. He said his grandfather, Robert E. Smith, inspired him to become a firefighter. Patrick said Todd inspired him to become a firefighter. And if anyone wants to become a volunteer firefighter at Owens & Co, contact the FD at owenscofire@gmail.com.
Greta Hurt holds a lot of “firsts” at the Tulsa Fire Department. She was TFD’s first Female District Chief, first Female Training Officer, first Female Fire Investigator and first Female Staff Officer. And during her 15 years in various field ops ranks, she had many fans. “When I first started out, there were barely any women firefighters around, so many times it was like celebrity status when I’d make a call with a little girl around,” Greta said. “I’ve seen many times the wide-eyed look of awe when I peel out of my bunker gear after a fire or incident, and it always makes me feel good. I try my best to do my part and take it seriously. “I look at it as being a sort of professional athlete with little eyes on me (girls AND boys!) at all times. I think it is really great that these days it’s not a rarity or big deal to encounter a female firefighter. It is becoming normal that women are firefighters, and that is Greta Hurt was promoted to District Chief in 2015 exciting!” along with Pete Matlock and Jerald Edwards Greta has been at Tulsa FD for 23 years total. Among the positions she’s held are Fire Training and EMS Officer, Fire Investigator, Code Enforcement Officer/Juvenile Fire Setter Prevention Specialist, Tulsa Regional Fire Academy Director and Administrative Chief. Currently she is Chief of Health and Safety. “I think it is exciting to see so many more women firefighters (and others with diverse qualities) in our state and across the country. “When I came on, there was no social media to let you see that there were other women firefighters around, so many times it felt lonely and there was no one to reach out to for help or to vent or talk something out. “As far as the general culture of diversity in the fire service -- whether it be with gender, race, sexual orientation, or merely diversity in thoughts and opinions -- I still think it is a very, very slow moving wheel, and change is still very difficult. “But, I also think at least now fire department administrators are open to hiring women, minorities and others. I believe sheer numbers will make a difference. Hiring more women, minorities and others with diverse qualities will lead to friendships and conversations around the firehouse coffee table, which will in turn lead to good and positive change culturally – but this definitely takes time.”
Help support your Oklahoma Firefighters Museum Expansion and Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial PURCHASE AN OKLAHOMA FIREFIGHTER LICENSE TAG! Money received from the purchase of each tag goes directly to financing upkeep on the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial and Oklahoma Firefighters Museum. Oklahoma Firefighter tags cost $40 a year (on top of regular tag fees) and $20 goes directly to the Museum/Memorial.
32 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Tags can be purchased from local tag agents any time during the year -- not just with your regular plate. And they can be customized to 6 letters as approved by the Tax Commission. Forms for Oklahoma Firefighter tags can be downloaded from www.osfa.info.
Guymon’s Diverse Fire Department Featured in The Washington Post In 2018, The Washington Post sent a reporter and photographer to Guymon, OK, for a story on diversity. “They spent approximately three days here in Guymon covering our department and other events going on in the month of May here,” Guymon Fire Chief Grant Wadley said. “It was very humbling for them to write up the article of our diverse department. The report in The Washington Post said that about a third of the volunteer firefighters at Guymon FD were Latino. Guymon FD Administrative Staff and Shift at the Guymon High School 2021 graduation. Now, three years later, Grant says it’s a little Five new Guymon volunteer firefighters are pictured, and four of them are Hispanic more than one-third -- 40 volunteer firefighters, with 16 being Hispanic/Latino. And one of those firefighters is Darbie Salamanca Barbie, Guymon FD’s first female Latina volunteer firefighter. “I was on the department the very first night two Hispanic men applied and were accepted on the Volunteer Fire side,” Grant said. They attended every meeting and every training event which got them used to the Fire Service and other firefighters. “There were many times we learned from them such as Public Education projects to include our Hispanic and Latino population here in Guymon. Lt. Herrera, FF Gonzales and FF “One of the biggest positive Pub Ed projects we have is our Pallacios on the end of an attack “Smoke Alarm” program where firefighters go into an area of town line during a large vehicle fire. Firefighter ICE Rescue team memGonzoles and Pallacios arrive at bers Uribe and Saucedo assist Ice and install smoke alarms in homes. incidents with their PPE in their rescue member Forman in January “Having one of the bilingual Hispanic firefighters in the group personal vehicles at live training event in Guymon made installing and teaching in a Hispanic populated home easier, understandable and more comfortable for the home owners. It was a win-win for everyone involved. “This still is the situation, but now it’s in so many other areas in our fire department. Those first two Hispanic firefighters -- Maximino Soto and Carlos Rodriguez -- started in January 2003 and are still active and well-respected in our department today. Capital Dynamics is a proud supporter of The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association (OSFA) and salutes the work of all the active and retired members. With our 13 offices worldwide and over 160 professionals, Capital Dynamics is a continued supporter of OSFA’s purpose to create, maintain, and perpetuate a fraternal spirit among its members, to suggest helpful legislation, to educate its members, and to enhance the value and dignity of the firefighting profession. Capital Dynamics is distinguished by its deep and sustained partnerships with clients, a culture that attracts entrepreneurial thought leaders and a commitment to provide innovative ideas and solutions for its clients.
Firefighter and Rescue Operators Jesus Uribe, Horacio Amador, and David Salcedo are at Lake Meredith in the Texas Panhandle at boat training. This is Horacio and Salcedo’s first live water training with Guymon FD
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Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 33
Aaron Burns Glad to See Changes in the Fire Service for Gay Firefighters When Aaron Burns was a paid firefighter EMT at Broken Arrow FD, he wanted to come out. But times were different in the 1990s and early 2000s. He did, however, help implement one change that will benefit future Broken Arrow firefighters. Here is Aaron’s story: “I remember the Union sending me to Miami Florida to take a Human Relations Conference put on by IAFF,” Aaron said. “It was the very first one and the late Buddy Moss was the coordinator. “I attended every session I could take, and I discussed my dilemma with Buddy about a dozen times over the 4-day event. He said, ‘That’s why we are here.’ I came back from Miami with big plans and lots of ideas, but it dead-ended with just one change. “I was able to convince the brotherhood that we had to change our constitution and by-laws to not be discriminative against any groups. The guys who showed up at the meeting approved the change, so I was proud of that. That by-law change will let the new recruits be themselves and will be there forever.” “I remember calling Buddy three or four times over the next year
For Summer Ladd, Caney VFD is All About Family & Community Summer Ladd is a wife and mother of three children. When she saw a female firefighter juggling motherhood and fire training, she thought she’d give it a try. “While in nursing school, I started taking note of the first responders in our community, what they did and how hard they worked,” said Summer, who is Hispanic/Caucasion and one of five women on Caney CVFD’s roster of 18 active members. “I particularly took note of one woman on the department who served as a lieutenant, Kimberly Harkey. She was a wife and mother and somehow balanced calls, fire training and furthering her education through it all. “Her diligence, hard work and passion in serving her community stood out to me and piqued my interest. And that is what inspired me to become a firefighter.” Summer is a Captain for Caney and has been on the department for 14 years. She is also a National Registered Paramedic, a Licensed Practical Nurse with the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, a certified EMS instructor with OSU FST and a certified American Heart Association CPR Instructor. “One of my favorite things to do is to teach our high school kids and community CPR,” Summer said. “It is important to me to provide my community with essential life-saving tools. “Being a member of Caney Volunteer Fire Department is part of mine and my family’s life. Serving beside my husband Derrick, who is also an active firefighter and officer on our department, is something that our three children have grown up being a part of, and they are seeing the rewards of being a volunteer firefighter first hand. “Being a firefighter in the Oklahoma Fire Service, I have learned that no matter your race, gender or ethnicity, everyone has a job and purpose that they are suited for. On scene or serving our community, the diversity and inclusion among members of the Oklahoma Fire Service all have one goal -- to serve and educate our community and keep them safe to the best of our ability and training.” 34 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
and telling him that I wanted to come out. He never discouraged it but always said, ‘Don’t put yourself in danger.’ My biggest fear about coming out as gay was that I would lose my life in a fire -- not by the rage itself, but by personal rage of one of the guys in the fire with me. “I never fully came out to my department, but a few guys knew that I was gay and it did not matter to them. I did my job -- very very well, I think -- and those guys are still friends, and many are still with the department. I would still take a bullet for local 2551. “I am finally out and open and willing to discuss my nightmares and sleepless nights with anyone who wants an insider’s perspective. Also, any firefighter who just wants to talk about the position they are in and how to make it through the next day, I would gladly speak to you and try to help. Email me at bafire@cox.net. “I think things have changed at Broken Arrow, so there may be hope for everyone who can do the job and to be yourself. I understand the pension board will pay same sex benefits if you were married legally for at least two years and continue to be married at the time of the member’s death. That is very nice to know, as I asked about that in 2004 and could not get an answer.”
Clifford Lewis Fought Fires in both the Air Force and Oklahoma City Clifford Lewis spent four years as a Fire Protection Specialist in the U.S. Air Force. His main duty was as an aircraft crash/ rescue firefighter. When he left the Air Force, the Oklahoma City FD was hiring firefighters. So he applied and was hired. He served 27 years with OCFD, 12 years on the rigs fighting fires and 15 in the Fire Marshal’s office as a Fire Investigator. Now Clifford spends time helping other Oklahoma Fire Service retirees. He is the first Native American President of the Oklahoma Retired Firefighters Association (ORFA) and has served on ORFA’s Memorial Honor Guard for 20+ years. “I am a Mvskoke (Creek) American Indian,” he said. “There were American Indians on the OKC FD when I was hired, but I don’t know how many. And during my service with OKC and my working with other local and statewide retired firefighters, I have not experienced any problems because of my heritage. “I just tried my best in serving as a firefighter for the department and for the citizens, both on the job and off the job.”
As Tulsa Training Officer, Julie Lynn Offered Good Advice to All Cadets When Julie Lynn joined the Tulsa FD in 1998, there were no female facilities. And since some male firefighters didn’t approve of sleeping arrangements in the open bunk rooms, many times she and Tulsa’s other female firefighters slept in the watch rooms. “I was one of two females in my academy class,” said Julie, who is now the first female State Fire Marshal Commission Committee Chairman. “There were two females employed with Tulsa Fire when we hired on. But there wasn’t any guidance given by the previous females because they, too, were still learning the process. “And I definitely was one of the first females to be pregnant in our department and paved the way for that adventure. “I have definitely seen more acceptance of females in the Oklahoma Fire service the last several years. The fire service needs members of all different sizes and make up. This field is all about team work, working together and keeping our communities safe.” Julie served a couple of years as Tulsa FD’s Training Chief and was fortunate to have several women come through the academy. “It was great to teach not only the new women what to expect at the fire station, but also teach the new male cadets what to expect working with females in the stations. “I hope to show the newer generation that promoting through the ranks is difficult but can be accomplished. Never to give up. My greatest role models I had were not females. It’s finding those who want to help you succeed and are willing to push you out of your comfort zone to make you a better person and a better member of the fire service.”
Tony Lopez Finds His True Calling with MWC FD Tony Lopez didn’t know anything about the Oklahoma Fire Service when he was 23. He just simply answered a help wanted ad for the Midwest City FD. Now, 31 years later, he is one of only two Hispanics to ever serve on the OSFA Executive Board. His term as OSFA President will begin in June 2023. “I was fortunate enough to get hired by the Midwest City FD my first try,” said Tony, whose current title is Assistant Chief (Shift Commander). “And when I hired on in 1990, I did not know any firefighters. I believe it was a true calling. And I believe we are well represented by all.” Tony believes he is the second Hispanic to serve on the Midwest City FD. The first was Ron Donnelly. When asked about being a role model for other minority firefighters, Tony said, “I don’t know about being a role model, but if I happen to be, it would be OK.”
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2021 OSFA STATE FIRE SCHOOL
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Cary Provence: Educational Advisory Committee Report Greetings Oklahoma Firefighters! Hope you are all doing well and surviving this odd heat and rain combination we have been experiencing lately. I’m reporting on the 2021 OSFA State Fire School, as well as the upcoming 2022 school. Like all of you did as well, the Educational Advisory Committee had an interesting two years leading up to the school. Having to cancel the 2020 school was devastating to us and did not come as an Yukon FD easy decision, but it did have a silver lining. It gave us the time and opportunity to make the 2021 school a success, and that was not an easy task. The OSFA staff and Educational Advisory Committee worked extremely hard to make it happen. With four separate sites and all the Covid restrictions, it was a challenge, to say the least. But like Oklahoma Fire Service always does, we faced the challenge head on and came out on top. We ended with a total of 182 individual students attending classes with a total enrollment of 271. Special thanks go to the Tulsa, Sand Springs, Owasso and Broken Arrow Fire Departments for not only allowing us to use their training facilities, but also being so helpful in the logistics of the individual H.O.T. classes. Now on to next year and the 2022 Oklahoma State Fire School. The newly elected OSFA board is working now to form the committee, and once established, members will be hard at work to deliver what we hope to be a bigger and better school. We also seem to have a better handle on the multiple site model of the school that appears to be the future of it for now. Look forward to seeing a lot of you soon and doing anything I can to help the Oklahoma Fire Service. Stay safe and keep pushing forward!
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 37
The Children's Center Rehabilitation Hospital
6800 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008
OKLAHOMA PUBLIC EDUCATION SUMMIT SEPTEMBER 23, 2021 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Chief Tonya Hoover U.S. Fire Administrator (Acting) United Stated Fire Administration
Kelly Ransdell Regional Director National Fire Protection Association
ABOUT US
Mike Klumpp ATV Safety Coordinator ATV Ride Safe Oklahoma
CORE TOPICS
Oklahoma Public Education Summit is a FREE event sponsored by the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association's Public Education Committee and the National Fire Protection Association. Come broaden your public education knowledge by hearing from our keynote speakers, visiting with our state and national vendors and enjoy lunch on us while networking with other departments across the state.
National Trends Oklahoma State Issues Oklahoma ATV Safety NFPA updates/resources Fire Prevention Week
SPACE IS LIMITED REGISTER NOW AT WWW.OSFA.INFO/EVENTS
If you are part of a volunteer department and cannot attend due to work, please send aFirefighter spouse or a fire/city representative in your place. 38 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma
Louis Marschik: OSFA Public Education Committee Report Hello Brothers and Sisters of Oklahoma! A quick shout out to Chief Harlow, OSFA and everyone else involved for putting on a great convention. There was a common thread of material that was shared by three speakers that pertained to our Ret. OKC FD committee, but more importantly to the lives of all our residents in Oklahoma. If you missed it, the topic was “Smoke Alarms.” Yes, this word is nothing new to the fire department dictionary, but it is one that needs to be re-visited again and again. Unfortunately, State Fire Marshal G. Keith Bryant stated we are ranked #49 in the country for fire fatalities per capita. I believe Mississippi is the only other state sitting in the basement with us. This is not just troubling, but saddening. In the past year, we have lost complete families and a couple of Oklahoma firefighters, primarily in mobile homes that were not covered by properly operating smoke alarms. These devices would have awoken the occupants and given them a chance to exit their homes and would have given our firefighters a much greater opportunity for rescue/survival. This article is useless unless we have some possible solutions to address this horrible statistic. We do! We have 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms available at the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum and also in Tulsa. If your department would like to get some of these FREE alarms, contact Gene Brown at the museum (405-424-3440). He is even willing to bring them to you if you are not able to pick them up. So, what’s the catch? Really, there is none, except we need documentation of where they were installed. The main reason for this documentation is so we can request more alarms in the future. Vision 2020 donated these alarms and all they ask is “where are they going?” We also have a few specialty alarms for the deaf. This is also a chance for you to promote your community by pro-actively working to prevent fire fatalities. We may not save the house, but we can improve the chances of saving their lives. Installing the smoke alarms also provides an opportunity to educate residents about other possible fire/injury potential you may notice in or around the house. Let us know if you are installing alarms, so we can recognize your department. Louis Marschik retired from the Oklahoma City FD on July 1. He will continue to be part of the Public Education Committee and submit quarterly reports. He will also begin working for Safe Kids Oklahoma in September. SKO is part of Safe Kids Worldwide, the leaders in injury prevention for children from birth to 19 years of age. “I will provide guidance for the fire prevention topic, but will mainly be teaching bike & pedestrian safety around Oklahoma,” he said.
Kelly Ransdell: NFPA Report To celebrate the anniversary of NFPA we launched a dynamic 3D artwork piece that was commissioned to celebrate the 125th anniversary of NFPA. Back in 1896, NFPA began advancing safety in a new industrialized nation by facilitating the development of codes and standards – initially to help solve challenges with sprinklers and electrical systems. In the years since, the NFPA standards development process has morphed significantly. Today, volunteers from 42 countries fill more than 9,000 NFPA technical committee seats and produce over 325 consensus codes and standards, and 40,000 members look to the organization for relevant resources and technical expertise. As it moves deeper into its second century, NFPA is considered an information and knowledge leader, highly regarded for developing codes and standards, conducting research, providing data, educating audiences on safety hazards, training on best practices, highlighting policy issues, offering digital solutions, and for connecting the dots on safety with its Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem. NFPA, the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 95 years, has announced “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” as the theme for 2021 Fire Prevention Week Oct. 3-9. From beeps to chirps, this year’s campaign works to better educate the public about the sounds smoke alarms make, what those sounds mean and how to respond to them.
According to the latest NFPA “Smoke Alarms in the U.S.” report, working smoke alarms in the home reduce the risk of dying in a reported fire by more than half. However, almost three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms (41 percent) or smoke alarms that failed to operate (16 percent); missing or non-functional power sources, including missing or disconnected batteries, dead batteries, and disconnected hardwired alarms or other AC power issues, are the most common factors when smoke alarms fail to operate. Key messages for “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety” include: • When a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide (CO) alarm sounds, respond immediately by exiting the home as quickly as possible. • If your alarm begins to chirp, it may mean that the batteries are running low and need to be replaced. If the alarm continues to chirp after the batteries are replaced, or the alarm is more than 10 years old, it is time to replace the alarm. • Test all smoke and CO alarms monthly. Press the test button to make sure the alarm is working. • If there is someone in your household who is deaf or hard of hearing, install bed shaker and strobe light alarms that will alert that person to fire. • Know the difference between the sound of a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide alarm – three beeps for smoke alarms; four beeps for carbon monoxide alarms.
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OSFA Safety & Health Committee Reports Larry Hansen: Page to Ponder Rehab is Not Just for Quitters Taking place each year during the third full week of June, Safety Stand Down highlights critRet. OKC FD ical safety, health, and survival issues for fire and emergency services personnel. Departments were asked to suspend all non-emergency activities during the week to focus their attention on safety and health education efforts. A week is provided to ensure that all duty shifts can participate. The 2021 Safety Stand Down took place June 20-26. The theme was “Rebuild Rehab.” This theme focused on the critical importance of physical and psychological rehab to mitigate the physiological and mental impacts of firefighting. The goal was to make sure everyone is ready to respond to the next emergency. The expectation is that departments would re-visit rehab procedures to ensure that post-incident protocol covers all areas of health and safety, including cardiac, nutrition, exposure, psychological, hydration and heat stress. Did you and/or your department take the time to focus and revisit your rehab protocols? Do you have rehab protocols? Old school thought is that rehab is for quitters. This is not true anymore and science has shown that a physically and emotionally well-rehabbed firefighter is more efficient and productive as compared to an exhausted, dehydrated, emotionally depleted firefighter. Overall, I think we do well with the physical rehab of our firefighters. We understand the need to provide hydration and cooling systems during emergency incidents and training evolutions. I think we fall short on the emotional or mental health rehab for our personnel. According to a study cited in Fire Engineering, more than 45 percent of firefighters have considered suicide, and 15 percent have attempted it. Deaths by suicide in 2018 exceeded lineof-duty deaths. In a 2018 survey conducted by the International Association of Fire Fighters of 7,000 firefighters nationwide, respondents overwhelmingly reported “that stressful or traumatic experiences on the job have impacted their mental health. Among the struggles they say are directly connected to the job: 19 percent have had thoughts of suicide, 27 percent have struggled with substance abuse, 59 percent have experienced family and relationship problems, and 65 percent are haunted by memories of bad calls.” We as fire service professionals, both active and retired, need to be more proactive in the mental health field for our firefighters. We are good with having yearly physical wellness exams and fit testing for face masks. Do we provide annual or bi-annual mental wellness checkups for our firefighters? Should we? Is it legal? These questions should be investigated and answered accordingly. Does your department provide exit interviews when a firefighter retires? Most departments do not. They simply say thank you for your service, here is your going away trinket and grab the next person up to fill the vacant position. If this profession is truly about sisterhood and brotherhood, then why don’t we take the time to make sure our firefighters emotional 40 August/September/October 2021Oklahoma Firefighter
Melanie Colvin: Live Long & Prosper It seems like summertime is passing by faster than some might want it to. The heat can wear us out, but it is nice to be able to hit the lakes, swimming pools, camp sites and fishing ponds Lexington FD for some much-needed relaxation. I hope that each of you have been able to take some personal time to enjoy life a little bit. With today’s busy schedules and shift changes, overtime, family obligations, etc, we tend to lose sleep, time and forget to take some time for ourselves. Self-Care is something we don’t always put on the priority list of to-dos. But what happens when we don’t? Life gets overwhelming and we lose sight of the important parts we should be enjoying. So many things affect our ability for self-care. We work hard. Work overtime. Stay up late and get up early. We spend our days sleep deprived and dragging. I know I am guilty of pushing too hard for too long and not taking down time to recover and decompress. This can affect our entire world. Being able to have that time to rejuvenate ourselves affects our moods and energy levels. We tend to take more time to appreciate the small things in life that can give us great joy. If we’re too busy we miss those small fleeting moments that pass to soon. Your child’s laughter, Oklahoma sunrises and sunsets, the smile from your significant other and enjoying a meal with a loved one are all things and so many more, that can be taken for granted if we don’t slow down enough to appreciate them. I know some people who have gratitude journals and write down one thing each day they are grateful for. They say that by doing this they can go back and read what they were grateful for when they need a moment of inspiration or a reminder of all the wonderful things that they have witnessed. I do my best to stop in the moment and enjoy. Be present and soak in the greatness that is happening before you. These moments are gone in a flash. Life can change in an instant. Don’t regret not taking the time to enjoy the moment. well-being is just as important as our physical well-being? It makes sense that a physically and emotionally fit crew of firefighters showing up on scene of a citizen’s emergency will be able to mitigate the problem more efficiently. The citizens deserve nothing less from us. There are many resources that fire departments can use or develop if their goal is to have physically fit and emotionally fit firefighters. Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Peer Support teams, Fire Service Chaplains, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), Non-fire service clergy, fire officer and chief officer training on mental health. Probably the biggest thing we can do is to change the fire service culture on how we view emotional and mental health rehab. It has got to be OK not to be OK. This will only work, though, if fire departments and municipalities are willing to put value in their personnel and provide programs, resources, and time to make sure our firefighters are mentally and physically rehabbed throughout our careers and post retirement. Until Next Time, Stay Safe and Be Nice to One Another.
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By Greg LindsayNear-Miss OKC Fire Department Greg Lindsay: Firefighter Report Continual Assessment Operations on the fire ground are a process that needs our attention. Due to the dynamic Oklahoma City FD nature, these operations change rapidly and evolve from small to large with every passing minute. Rapid, aggressive actions can bring a positive outcome, but each assignment requires careful examination of the conditions and the experience to know how far and how fast to go. It is almost impossible to overstate the need for continually assessing size-up and fire progress. The featured report begins with an initial account of fire on division two. As more crews arrived, the assignments continued to focus on a fire in division two. As companies made progress, reports from the interior updated the Incident Commander’s situational awareness, and a change of tactics became necessary. The complete report can be found at http:// firefighternearmiss.com/Reports?id=15903. As you read, consider how operations would progress in your department from your windshield “SCAN” through the conclusion of the incident. CONTINUAL SIZE-UP AND GOOD COMMUNICATION DURING FIRE ATTACK What was the initial size-up? Two-story single-family with a basement. Smoke showing from the second-floor window. Event Description The near-miss occurred during the early stages of a fire attack at a single-family dwelling fire. Units were dispatched for a house fire with smoke coming from the second floor. The regular first-due and second-due companies for this address were not available. Delayed arrival times may not have contributed to this near-miss but are worth mentioning as factors that could have led to a chain of events causing a tragic outcome given slightly different circumstances. The first unit arrived at a two-story single-family dwelling with smoke showing from Side Bravo. The crew completed a 360 size-up and reported smoke showing from “every opening” and no exterior basement access. The second engine arrived and stretched a line to the Alpha side first-floor entrance preparing for an attack on what was assumed to be a second-floor fire. The command unit arrived on the scene shortly after and directly behind Truck 1 and Truck 2, assumed command, and gave an additional size-up. Moments later, the first engine relayed a priority message about a hole in the floor directly inside the front door, and all units should back out. Command asked for a long alert tone and backed firefighters out of the front door, ensuring no other
companies made entry via that entrance. Command also checked the accountability of the units in the immediate hazard area. All units were accounted for, and the fire attack was redirected with the second engine and the third truck through a Side Delta entrance which gave direct access into the basement where the fire was located. The first due engine and Truck 1 held their position on the first floor. From the description of these events, consider the following: • What would your initial concerns be if you had arrived to find this structure with smoke showing from the second floor? • The initial 360 revealed no basement access and smoke showing from every side. What assignments should receive priority in your assessment? • This fire occurred in April at 2:30 in the afternoon. From the photo above, how likely is the house to be occupied at the time of the fire? • Discuss the potential adverse outcomes from this event. Describe the lessons learned at this event. What specific recommendations do you have regarding the lessons learned? Overall, units did an excellent job of communicating and adjusting to the situation presented to avoid a potentially negative outcome. Size-up is critical to identifying a basement fire. When one is indicated, every effort should be given to make an attack directly into the basement, avoiding a situation similar to what occurred at this incident. That being said, there was little to no indication of a working basement fire during the early stages of this incident. Given the time of day and the fact that no occupants were home, it is believed the fire had significant burn time before the fire department was dispatched. This true ordinary construction home was built in 1948, with interior framing of dimensional lumber. While houses of this construction type and era are typically very stable under fire conditions, with the extended burn time, significant portions of structural floor members were either partially or wholly burned away, leading to the hole on the first floor. Describe the leading practices you noticed at this incident: Excellent communication among crews with proper actions by command. We have all been told not to judge a book by its cover. Generally, this means that our first impressions are not always the most accurate. The first impression of an event will only cover so much.
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Looking deeper into the incident is always necessary if you want to improve situational awareness. If only part of the information available is used, we are guessing about the rest of the incident scene. Constant assessment requires us to complete 360 surveys, maintain vigilance in receiving status updates from fireground companies, and re-evaluating tactics when conditions warrant. Understanding the incident usually leads to safer fireground operations. The author of this report indicated there was no visible evidence of a basement fire in the early stages of this incident. However, we always suspect a fire to originate on the lowest level of the residence. By doing so, when we enter on a level other than the lowest, precautions like sounding the floor and noting excessive heat are the best indicators for structural compromise. This can be extremely difficult to assess when smoke conditions obscure visibility. Coordinating ventilation with fire attack crews has proven essential, but hidden fires frequently hamper our ability to synchronize these assignments. When one task outpaces the other, additional caution is necessary. In this case, I find it helpful to assign an experienced officer to manage the coordination and observe/control the ventilation flow path. One final thought about this fire; with the current emphasis to close the door while you are sleeping (Close while you doze), we may have an additional indicator that an occupied room is protected from fire in another part of the structure. In this case, the 360-report indicated smoke showing from every opening. If the initial report revealed one or two windows that did not have a significant smoke indication, I could assume these may be survivable spaces with the possibility of a protected occupant. Initiating a directed search through these windows from the exterior could be valuable. Reports like this one that include descriptions with photographs tell a different story. Narratives that describe conditions are a vital part of this system, but incorporating photos can amplify understanding. Consider including pictures with your report, and consider including www.Firefighternearmiss.com when sharing an event that could prevent an injury or save a life.
Hole in Floor From Above
Hole in Floor From Below
Kara Owens: FSIO President’s Report
Ryan Ashley, Midwest City FD, won the Kubota RTV-XG850 at the OSFA Convention Banquet. The UTV raffle was organized by ORFA as a fundraiser for the Firefighters Museum Expansion project.
Terry Sampson: Fire Chaplain Report Are you starting to feel the effects of age? Other than the numbers on the calendar slipping by, what Tulsa FD are some of the signs that the hours, days, months, or years are passing for you? Like most of us, there are many moments in my past that make up time. But I had one event that really opened my eyes to my age. The other day, mom and I got a phone call from one of our granddaughters. Now the common call from her is an update on what is happening in her life (she lives out of state). And what kid or grandkid is too timid to ask for money? But this phone call was a first for this chaplain. She asked if “grandpa” would be the minister at her wedding next year. Talk about mixed feelings. Part of me was very happy that she would ask me be that part in the next big step in their life. The other part gave me the feeling of old age. I have been retired from full-time employment for about five years and have now served the Tulsa Fire Department as a chaplain for the last two years. Over the years, I have been a missionary, school teacher, pilot, aircraft mechanic, motorcycle rider, volunteer firefighter and husband to a great wife and now with nine grandchildren. But hands down the greatest thing that has seen me through life is my love for and service to the Lord. When I was a senior in high school, I was taken to a Youth For Christ meeting on a very cold winter evening. At that meeting, I gave my life to Christ and He has been walking with me as the years have passed. As a firefighter, you see things that the general public really does not want to see. The hardest has to be children badly hurt or killed in very painful ways. My question as a chaplain is, how do you keep your mental compass pointed true north as the years pass as you see so much? Over the years, the bad events that have tried to upset my life are things that the Lord has helped me to walk through. As a chaplain, the strongest firefighters I know are the ones who can take a knee to the Lord and ask for His help. Do you know the Lord on a personal level so He can help you as the years pass?
Dare to be the difference! Dare to leave a positive legacy! This statement can be taken various ways. How do you take it? As a challenge? As a Piedmont FD criticism? As an instructor, have you thought about what kind of difference you have made in a student’s life/career? Have you made a positive impact on a student? Have you learned something new today? Better yet, did you share what you learned with anyone else? Why did you not share it with someone else? What instructor do you know who has left a lasting impact on you? FSIO will be opening up applications for the Ray Davidson Instructor of the year. Be sure to go like our facebook page and watch for the nominations to open. The instructor of the year will be announced at our 40th annual FSIO Conference that will be held Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at the Edmond Fire Training grounds. Chief Jim Annis of Skiatook Fire Department will be one of our guest speakers. He will be covering several different topics; you definitely don’t want to miss his presentation! Have passion, stay humble and never forget where you came from and who helped you get to where you are at now.
TRAINING SOLUTIONS for Every Need PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER, SECOND EDITION • Written to NFPA 1035, Standard on Fire and Life Safety Educator, Public Information Officer, Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist and Youth Firesetter Program Manager Professional Qualifications • Complete revision of our previous edition • Features an overview of the skills and knowledge a PIO needs to perform the diverse and demanding tasks associated with the position
ITEM# 36347
Available through the OSFA Museum! Call 405-424-3440 to order.
Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 43
BY GREG ROBERTS n OKLAHOMA FIRE SPOTLIGHT
Ret. Norman FD
WALTERS FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire Chief: David Taylor FD Formed: 1913 Joined OSFA: 1921 Personnel: 4 paid, 18 volunteers ISO Rating: 5 Population: 2,700 (approx.) Square Miles Covered (Fire): 320
Calls per year: 120 (approx.) Number of Stations: 1 Number of Engines: 2 Number of Brushpumpers: 4 Number of Tankers: 2 Number of Rescue Units: 1
Historic Footnote: Walters was incorporated in 1902. In that year, Cache Creek flooded the town, prompting the residents to move to a 160acre townsite directly south. In 1912, Cotton County was formed from the southern
portion of Comanche County and Walters was selected by voters to be the county seat. Cotton County was the 77th and final county formed in Oklahoma.
E-1 2004 Freightliner/E-One 1250 pump/1000 tank
Walters Fire Chief, David Taylor, receives WFD’s 100 year membership award from OSFA’s Executive Board at the 127th OSFA Convention in Guthrie E-4 1969 Young Crusader 1250 pump/350 tank
BP-10 1972 AM General 18 HP/200 pump/Twin 500 gallon tanks
R-8 1986 Ford/E-One 250 pump/250 tank
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BP-2 1973 Ford/Boardman 23 HP/200 pump/300 tank
Proudly Supporting the Oklahoma State FirefightersAssociation and the127thAnnualConvention
GH&A manages approximately $17 billion in high quality fixed income assets in various strategies along the yield curve.* GH&A is 100% employee owned, and is certified as a Texas HUB and a MBE/MWBE firm in several states. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Janna Hamilton/ Partner (o) 713.853.2309 (m) 561.212.0530 Janna@GarciaHamiltonAssociates.com www.GarciaHamiltonAssociates.com *Data as of March 2021 Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 45
99th OFCA CONFERENCE April 22 in MWC
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Greg Herbster: OFCA President’s Report What a crazy ride the fire service has had in the last 18 months. It is great to see how all of our departments managed to get through one of the most difficult years in recent history. We have all been challenged and pushed beyond our comfort zones working through this pandemic. Though difficulties have been thrust upon us, we have risen to the challenge. Through our trials comes triumph. As we get to the backside of this pandemic, we are going to see many positive changes in emergency services that will better protect our members and provide better care for our citizens. I believe this is a historic year for our pension system, and the amount of firefighters retiring across the state is a reflection upon that. Oklahoma Firefighter’s Pension Executive Director Chase Rankin and his staff have done an exemplary job managing our pension, but because of their efforts to give us an unbelievable retirement, we are challenged with filling the voids of those retiring. For reasons unbeknownst to me, our application pools have been on a steady decline over the last decade. We owe it to our citizens and our
membership to continue to hire qualified, dedicated and selfless public servants who have a desire to put others before themselves. This has been a daunting task of late and is going to take the efforts Moore FD of all us to correct. We must all do a better job promoting and recruiting young men and women into the fire service. As Chief Officers, we have to think outside the box and come up with new methods of outreach in our communities. We are all faced with different limitations and hurdles that we must overcome to provide the resources that are needed to make this happen. This is one example of why it is so important to get involved in the OFCA -- so we can network, build relationships and share ideas. Our recruitment struggles are not going to be resolved over night, but by us working together and sharing ideas, we will be more productive in finding solutions. Our chief’s board is working hard to provide education and leadership growth across our state, so please get involved and join us in making it the best it can be. Until next time, stay safe and stay involved.
2021-22 OFCA Executive Board PRESIDENT Greg Herbster
gregherbster@cityofmoore.com
1ST VICE PRESIDENT James Heap jrheap@pldi.net
2ND VICE PRESIDENT Richard Kelley richard.kelley@okc.gov
3RD VICE PRESIDENT Craig Carruth
ccarruth@cityofmustang.org
PAST PRESIDENT Bert Norton
bnorton@midwestcityok.org
OFCA DIRECTOR Kent Lagaly
klagaly@cityofelreno.com
James Heap: OFCA 1st Vice President’s Report Greetings Oklahoma Fire Service! I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and have been able to get out and make some memories Frederick FD with your family. My family and I are preparing to go to Red River, New Mexico, for a well-anticipated break from the everyday grind at the firehouse. We are looking forward to a week of fun in the mountains. As I am writing this article, we have received unusual rains and have had below normal temperatures here in Southwest Oklahoma. It is odd for our area to have so much moisture and green grass around the 4th of July. I enjoyed getting to see friends from around the state at the OSFA Convention in Guthrie. Chief Harlow and the Guthrie Fire Department hosted a memorable event. The fire apparatus parade was a nice addition to the normal activities that are available each year. The OFCA Board is continuing to build a relationship with the Oklahoma Municipal League. A few years ago, Mike Fina, son of George Fina retired from OKC Fire Department, was appointed executive director of OML. George has always been a strong voice for the fire service,
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and Mike growing up with a father that is so involved understands our issues. It is important that the fire service and OML work together to achieve positive results for our cause, the OFCA Executive Board members at 2021 OSFA Convention Oklahoma Fire Service. The last couple of ing those who suffer from mental illness, years, the fire organizations and OML have been able to work to- no matter how slight the case may be, and getting those individuals the help they gether to get different legislation passed. need. One of the bills that passed in 2021 We can do a better job of pre-employcreates a process for cities and towns to ment screening which could help prevent have Public Safety Districts. This bill will issues later. allow municipalities to take to the vote of I know there are mixed opinions about the people an option to add up to a 5 mill this issue, but I think it is something that levy on ad valorem taxes to help fund is going to have to be addressed sooner public safety services. OML is planning to have some training than later. Chief Richard Kelley has started planfocused on fire chiefs and chief officers at ning the OFCA Winter Workshop to be their annual conference held this Septemheld Jan. 26-28 in Stillwater. ber in OKC. If there are any particular topics you I encourage all fire chiefs to take would like to see covered, reach out to advantage of this opportunity and help Richard. I am certain he will have an strengthen our relationship. As a chief, if exceptional program put together. your city is a member of OML then you Start making plans to attend so you are a member, as well. can take advantage of the educational and Another issue we need to address is networking opportunities there. the metal health of our fellow firefighters. Stay safe and healthy! Oklahoma FirefighterAugust/September/October 2021 47 We need to do a better job of recogniz-
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Richard Kelley: OFCA 2nd Vice President’s Report O K L A H O M A F I R E C H I E F S A S S O C I A T I O N
Greetings Brothers and Sisters! This year, we will focus on numerous topics, including As summer is coming to an end and kids leadership, difficult conversations, mentoring, retention and are going back to school, I hope that everyone recruiting, and labor relations. had an opportunity to travel or get away. Please make plans to attend so we can support and learn Time away is extremely important to from each other. recharge and refocus on being a positive In October, the fire service will once again focus on CommuOklahoma City FD influence within your organization. It is also nity Risk Reduction with Fire Prevention Week. a great opportunity to spend time Although this week is a great with those that are significant in our time to focus on reducing the risk lives. of injuries and death to our resiIn June, I had an opportunity dence, it should go without noting to meet with our department and that we should maintain this focus discuss the Firefighter Safety Standthroughout the entire year. down which provided a chance for Oklahoma is one of the states everyone to focus on the topic of with the highest structure fire death Rebuild Rehab. rate per capita in the U.S. As fire During this time, we were able service leaders, we must address to reflect on 2020 and focus on the this issue at all levels through positive attributes from the full installation of smoke alarms and year of change, consternation, and other fire safety programs. learning. If your department does not I want to share some of the have a smoke alarm program, take lessons learned from the challenges on that project and develop one for we all faced in public safety: your community. Governor Stitt with OFCA Executive Board Leadership sometimes falls to • We are stronger and better those who are appointed formally, together than individually. but we each understand that all our personnel are leaders. • We can do anything when we work together. Never underestimate your level of influence, no matter what • We will never be perfect, but we will always strive for collar brass is on your shirt. excellence. Leadership is a verb which requires action and influence in • Resiliency is more important than ever in our field of a positive manner to improve our great profession. Now more service. than ever, the fire service needs great leaders, so continue to • We have great people who can do extraordinary things. learn and improve daily. Until next time, strive for excellence Currently, the OFCA Board is preparing for an outstanding because leaders are not born, they are made. 2022 Chiefs Winter Workshop Jan. 26-28 in Stillwater.
Chase Rankin: Firefighter’s Pension Executive Director While we are still tallying the final results of the plan year ending June 30, 2021, the preliminary investment return for the year is 31.79%. This is the single highest return for the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension System and should be, once again, among the best returns in the entire country. OFCA Ex Officio We are so pleased with the return, and it is a wonderful reflection of the solid investment team that is in place to manage the assets of your System, as well as the hard work and dedication to the process by the board, investment consultant and staff. This brings the average annual return of the System to 8.87% each year since July 1, 1989. Since the actuarial assumed rate of return for the System is 7.5%, we are continuing to beat our benchmark with this part of the funding of our plan. Speaking of actuary, it is important to note that the actuary will not recognize the entirety of this investment gain in one year. They use a five-year-smoothing model to calculate the “actuarial value of assets.” In a year, such as this, where the return is significantly different than the normal year, the actuarial value of assets can differ
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quite a lot from the “market value of assets.” This is because the actuary uses a five-year average of returns and only recognizes 20% of the experienced gain (the portion over 7.5%) to calculate the “health” of the System. This is important to prevent decision makers from making drastic decisions based on wild swings in the market (good or bad). The good news for us is that if we maintain our 7.5% for the next five years, we will experience a gain each year as we smooth the 31.79% into the plan. This is an excellent place to be so that there is a cushion in place should the markets be less co-operative than they were this year. All this is to say that I expect an excellent bill of health from the actuary this year and the excess return only gives us further confidence that this plan is solidly on the path to being “fully funded.” The board of the System has put together an amazing portfolio under the direction of the investment consultant. They remain committed to the process which I believe will continue to have success well into the future. It is an honor to be a part of this success and to serve you as the Executive Director of the System. Please stay safe out there and know that we have you covered for your financial future.
Craig Carruth: OFCA 3rd Vice President’s Report Greetings Everyone! I hope the delivery of this edition finds everyone doing well. We are quickly approaching the changing of seasons from summer to fall. With the unseasonable increase in rainfall for almost everyone in the state during June and Mustang FD the first part of July, this has the potential to be a very active fall wildfire season. Please take time to review the importance of proactive hydration and proper wildland fire tactics with your department members. It may also be a good idea to take this opportunity to put our Vision 20/20 knowledge to work and educate our communities on how to become fire adaptive. In addition to the fall, there are a couple of venues with great educational opportunities quickly approaching. The first venue approaching is the Southwestern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Conference. This is a five state regional conference for fire service leaders, which is to be held Oct. 6-8 in Midwest City at the Reed Center. Chief Bert Norton has put together an outstanding conference filled with talented national and local fire service educators that is sure to not disappoint. The second venue quickly approaching is the Chiefs Winter Workshop Jan. 26-28 in Stillwater. I am excited about what is in store, as Chief Richard Kelley is working extremely hard to set up a wonderful educational and networking event for us to enjoy. Start checking the websites (SWD-IAFC and OFSA) to get registered to attend some of the best educational opportunities set for fire service leaders in 2021 and early 2022. On another note, as OFCA 3rd Vice President, I reached out to the OSFA to gather statistics on the number of fire departments registered with the OSFA, how many members are registered with the OSFA, and how many members are registered with the OFCA. The data I was given in return shows the following: OSFA member departments: 573 • 80% Volunteer • 13% Combination • 7% Paid OFCA member departments: 205 • 59% Volunteer • 21% Combination • 20% Paid
The membership letter is addressed to the Fire Chief of every department in our system (906 departments). The data caused me to ask this question: why do we not (at a minimum) have 906 members in both the OFCA and OSFA? I pause to question the data further, as this publication reaches more than 16,000 firefighters and fire service organizations. The OFCA and OSFA do a tremendous amount of work to educate and represent the Oklahoma Fire Service as a whole, regardless of the type of department represented or the rank in which any one person holds. That being said, I would like to challenge those who are not currently active to become active, and to remind everyone that membership to the OFCA is open to everyone. The cost to join is half the price of a cup of coffee per month ($3 for chief officer) and even less for a sustaining member ($1.5 non-voting rights). The amount of education, representation, and connection with other leaders in the fire service is mind boggling for the minimal membership fee. It is not too late to join. Simply go to the OSFA website and follow the OFCA link to become a member today. Stay Safe and Get Active.
Bert Norton: OFCA Past President’s Report Hello Oklahoma Fire Leaders! I hope all is well and you are enjoying the cooler temperatures than usual for us. The legislative session has come to a wrap and our legislators have headed back home to their regular roles and making rounds. Midwest City FD I would encourage you to invite them over to visit or meet them at one of their update locations they are providing to the district. I know that redistricting is taking place and many of you will be getting a new representative, so take the time to get to know them. The Fire Chief’s board will be busy the next quarter working on getting the Winter Workshop set up for January. I know Chief Richard Kelley is getting a lot done and he has heard what you want to see and is trying to make that happen. It’s not to early to place that on your calendar. We are working on updating the Fire Chief’s handbook that is on the website. Years ago, the board put together a handbook of important numbers and things that you might need as the Fire Chief. If there is anything that you think we need to add to this, please let us know and we will work to get it done. Moving on to the Southwestern Division of the IAFC. We will be hosting the educational conference this year in Oklahoma. It will be Oct. 6-8 in Midwest City at the Reed Conference Center. If you are not an IAFC member, you can still attend the educational portion of the conference. Registration will be open soon for that and we have several guest speakers coming to town who are national speakers to present at the conference. I think this will be worth the money and I hope you will attend. If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Until next time, Stay Safe and Get Involved!
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Guest Speakers for IAFC SW Division Conference • Chief Brian Brush, Midwest City FD • Chief Bob Hoff, Chicago FD (Ret.) • Chief Anthony Kastros, Sacramento Metro Fire District (Ret.) • Dr. Haley Murphy, Oklahoma State University • Chief Peter Van Dorpe, Algonquin-Lake in the Hills FPD (Ret.) • Chief Mike Walker, Oklahoma City FD
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O K L A H O M A F I R E C H I E F S A S S O C I A T I O N
James Fullingim: Asst. State Fire Marshal The question of who is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in Oklahoma in respect to fire code compliance probably is not at the top of your list of important questions. However, the topic is worth understanding. The fire codes are written and adopted to protect lives, not only the lives of the public but the firefighters as well. In Oklahoma, the building and fire codes are adopted by the State Legislature as the minimum standard. All commercial buildings must be built to these standards unless local code exceeds the minimum state fire code. In the cases of individual counties or municipalities exercising their option as the AHJ, they accept the responsibility to ensure these codes are enforced. Any county, town or city may assume this role within the area they govern. Otherwise, the responsibility falls within the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Additionally, this allows the local authority to require items not adopted by the State in the minimum code. OFCA Ex Officio
It is a myth that if you build within an unincorporated area of a county there are no code requirements. The State Fire Marshal’s Office maintains a list of governmental entities that have elected to serve as the AHJ locally. Each of these bodies is required to submit a letter to our office every three years stating their intentions to act in this capacity and select the elements of the process for which they will assume responsibility. The letter requires the signature of the top elected official, the City Attorney and the Fire Chief or designee. While we encourage and promote the local assumption as the AHJ maintaining control of the building process, we cannot stress enough that Fire Chiefs and other local elected officials fully understand the ramifications, responsibilities and even liabilities involved. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is available and recommends you consult with us as you consider this option.
Caroline Reed: OSU FST Director I just want to take a few minutes to share with you what your State Training Agency has been doing recently. We hosted our first instructor enrichment day at GorOFCA Ex Officio don Cooper Career Tech Center in Shawnee. We had a great turn out and positive feedback about the training. Our instructors are the life blood of our organization. One idea that our Management staff had was to start instructor reading groups or small book clubs. Currently our instructors are reading the following books: “The Energy Bus,” “Power of Positive Teams” and “Mount of Olives.” All three of these books are helping to provide positive, encouraging messages for our daily development. We have a new EMS Coordinator, JW Snell. He is stepping into Mike Duncan’s role after his retirement in August. Mike has been a part of this organization for over 25 years and we wish him all the best in his retirement. If you need courses or EMS cards, please reach out to J. W. OSU FST has a new ordering system for EMS cards located on our website at OSUFST.org under the EMS tab. Now you do not have to call the office for cards. Our IFSAC and Pro Board Accreditation Department has been working on transitioning to a new test bank software. During this transition, we have moved all of our test banks to a new system and brought in an external audit team to review all the test questions to ensure its accuracy. This project is scheduled to be complete by the end of August and ready for our fall training season. We are working with Career Tech through this process and will have those tests updated by the end of August, as well. If you need to set up a re-test or schedule a test for the Fall, please reach out to Rodney Foster from our office. The training grounds are also undergoing a face lift. We will be repaving the road to our facilities at the end of August. Our new fire truck is on order, and we have met with the architects to start designing our new training classroom building. We have also launched our new website, so please visit it and sign up for a course in the future.
Craig Hannan: Fire Protection Publications Director IFSTA and FPP: Trained to Train You Greetings Oklahoma Firefighters! I hope you are well.
Fire Protection Publications (FPP) is an extension unit within the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University. FPP serves as the headquarters for the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA), and our primary function is to publish and disseminate fire service training manuals as proposed and validated by IFSTA. Of our 65 full time staff, at least 28 have some level of IFSAC or ProBoard certification ranging from Firefighter I and Fire Officer II to Hazardous Materials Technician and Airport Rescue Firefighter. Many other staff have had non-certification level training in fire and emergency services. In addition to our team’s assigned role with FPP, we feel having a better understanding of the fire and emergency services industry OFCA Ex Officio
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brings added benefit to IFSTA/FPP products. Taking classes to earn certifications allows the FPP team to place themselves in the role of students using IFSTA/FPP products. Now more than ever, a need for alternative learning and teaching options is at the forefront of training efforts across the nation. Our added perspective helps us ensure IFSTA/FPP products provide the best and most holistic experience for the students who use our products. Not only do we publish hard copy manuals, we produce eProducts to meet the needs of trainees who are fully immersed in the capabilities of digital learning. FPP has four team members who are active volunteer firefighters serving in their communities and eight team members who are retired career/volunteer or military firefighters. For many years, IFSTA used the slogan “Written by firefighters, for firefighters,” and when you combine the talent and work our staff with those firefighters on the IFSTA Validation committees, that slogan stands.Until next time, be safe, be well, be well trained.
OUR PURPOSE
OFCA MEMBERSHIP
To improve fire department administration, fire prevention, fire suppression and fire services delivery throughout the State of Oklahoma by providing educational, networking, coordination and support opportunities to its memebers.
Membership is open to ALL Active & Retired Fire Service Personnel.
Chief Officers & Shift Commanders $36 per year
First-Time Members are FREE. Membership runs July 1-June 30
Retired Members $26 per year
*Sustaining Members $18 per year
*Sustaining Members include all active members of a fire department --public, private or military-- or fire service agency. Sustaining Members are entitled to all privileges and benefits except voting and holding office.
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