Oklahoma Firefighter magazine Aug-Sept-Oct 2023

Stevens Family

Shores

Official Publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association

2716 N.E. 50th Street OKC, OK 73111 (405) 424-1452 • Fax (405) 424-1032 osfa@osfa.info • www.osfa.info

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 Mike Kelley mkelley@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!

Advertiser’s Index

22 ............. Adams Street 13 ............. Barrow Hanley

2 & 52 ..... Casco Industries 44 ............. Casco Industries 16 ............ Cherokee Nation 19 ............ Conrad Fire Equipment 7 ............. FPP / IFSTA

............. Fred Alger

........... Heartland Fire Trucks

............. ITE Fire & Rescue

............. Kirkpatrick Architecture 42 ............. Lord Abbett 9 & 31 .... NAFECO 25 ............. Nuveen 25 ............. OAEVT 37 ............. PTG 34 ............. Randy Dame 43 ............. River Road 33 ........... Roberts Testing 29 ........... Sharp Testing Services 15 ............. SOS Fire Equipment

CONTACT osfa@osfa.info to place an ad in the magazine

129th OSFA Convention Photos

Meetings - Page 6 n Golf - Page 8 n

Presentations - Page 12

OFCA Board at 2023 OSFA Convention Banquet

129th OSFA CONVENTION

June 7 - 10, 2023 in Tahlequah

251 attendees representing 60 cities & towns

2023-24 OSFA EXECUTIVE BOARD

PRESIDENT

Tony Lopez Midwest City FD tlopez@midwestcityok.org

1ST VICE PRESIDENT Donnie Bennett Oklahoma City FD donben1889@gmail.com

2ND VICE PRESIDENT Cary Provence Yukon FD cprovence@yukonok.gov

3RD VICE PRESIDENT Tom Marcum Mooreland FD tommarcum@pldi.net

PAST PRESIDENT Jim Ed Nimmo Tulsa FD jimnimmo7@gmail.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sept. 13, 2023

David Bain Memorial Golf Tourn. at Lincoln Park Golf Course

Sept. 19, 2023

OSFA Public Education Summit at the Bethany Children’s Center

Oct. 8, 2023

OSFA Statewide Memorial Service at Oklahoma Firefighters Memorial

Oct. 14, 2023

No One Fights Alone Firefighters Gala at Capitol View Event Center

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

129th OSFA CONVENTION Meetings

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

Tom Marcum: OSFA 3rd Vice President’s Report

Greetings OSFA membership! What a great time we had in Tahlequah in June for convention.

Kudos to Jim Ed Nimmo, as well as Tahlequah FD and Tulsa FD, for all of their hard work and time spent in planning and preparation for us to enjoy our week and get some work completed.

I am both honored and humbled to be elected to serve this delegation on the Executive Board. Having attended 10 conventions now, I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed every last one of them. I have gained friends from across the state through this association and I’m looking forward to building on those relationships as I serve you, the membership.

Running a campaign is never easy, nor does anyone expect it to be. It takes a lot of planning and preparation, as well as a lot of time and effort to assure that you visit with anyone and everyone who wants to spend some time getting to know you and asking you about your stance and position on topics that interest them and pertain to them.

I appreciate all of those who supported me, spent time visiting with me, helping me

Q&A with Tom Marcum

OSFA’s new 3rd VP was born and raised in Indiana. He did spend two years in Mooreland as a youth and fell in love with the state. So almost 25 years ago, he moved to Oklahoma with his family.

He has been at Mooreland FD since 2010, serving as Training Lieutenant, Assistant Fire Chief, Fire Chief and now Captain/PIO.

Marcum also served as a Child Welfare Supervisor for Oklahoma Department of Human Services Foster Care & Adoption Services for 20 years.He’s been an IFSTA Training Specialist for the past 3 years.

In a question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Marcum, 53, shared the following:

When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter? In kindergarten, we did a tour of our local fire department and it made an impact on me. Once my family and I settled in Mooreland, I knew I wanted to be on the fire department and serve my community however I could. I’m a late comer to the fire world, but the past 13 years have changed my life literally. It’s a passion of mine to make a difference and serve.

How’d you go about getting into the fire service? I knew most of the people on the Mooreland FD and started attending the monthly meetings. I did this for nearly a year before they decided that I could become a member. After that, I realized I needed to make firefighter training a priority to stay safe and make good decisions while on a fire. Once I started training, I was assigned the role of training others in the department, which led to other teaching and training opportunities.

What have been some highlights of your fire service career so far?

Completing the Oklahoma Executive Fire Officer program in 2017 and being the class-elected speaker for graduation. Being able to see the National Fire Academy in person. Visiting in Washington DC with our state’s congressmen and senators with the Fire Marshal’s group. Serving my community as the Fire Chief for 6 years, working through some large scale wildland incidents and sitting alongside the command staff of 2 Type 1 Incident Management Teams for weeks to control the incidents.

in any way to run a successful campaign for this board.

It is my sincere hope that I’ll be able to serve well and represent ALL the firefighters of our state. While I know the issues facing the volunteers, and what they are needing and asking for, I also understand that as a board member, it’s my responsibility to represent everyone, including the combination departments and career departments of all sizes. While that seems like a huge task, I firmly believe that working together for the best interests of all is not only feasible, but plausible, as well.

As I’m learning the ropes of the board and the pension system in greater detail, please know that I’m open to discussions and input from each of you, and look forward to determining how best to represent you, the firefighter. I’m a pretty open book, and while we may or may not agree on any given topic, know that I’ll always ere on the side of what’s best for as many as possible in any given circumstance.

Again, thank you for your support and I look forward to serving on the OSFA Executive Board. If I can be of assistance, please reach out to me.

Marcum and wife Kim at the Mooreland Football Field last fall during First Responder Appreciation night following a large scale wildland incident north and east of town that lasted 4 days

129th OSFA CONVENTION

129th OSFA Golf Tournament

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

* Photos Courtesy of Moon Dance Photography

Q&A with Tony Lopez

OSFA’s new President was born in Moore and attended Moore HS, OSU-OKC and OCCC. He’s been with Midwest City FD for 33 years -- the only FD he’s worked for. In a recent question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Lopez, 57, shared the following:

When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter?

I was 23 and sitting behind a desk working for Hibdon Tire Centers. I did not know anything about the fire service, but I had some friends that had been applying at different departments. So I look in the help wanted section and saw that Midwest City FD was hiring. I applied, tested and was fortunate enough to get hired my first try.

What are your hopes for the future?

I hope to finish my term as President then retire and spend more time with family.

What was the highlight of the 2023 OSFA Convention for you?

The board wearing cowboy hats as a tribute to Jim Ed.

OSFA ARCHIVE

Here’s a bit of history you may or may not know about your association:

OSFA President Tony Lopez has already announced the theme for his convention next year.

It’s “Back to the Future” and it’s set for June 12-15, 2024, in Midwest City.

117th Annual OSFA Convention

Since OSFA Presidents started picking themes for conventions -- a practice that began 40 years ago -- they usually don’t announce what it is until a few months before convention.

Only one other OSFA President is believed to have hinted at his convention theme so early.

In the four years leading up to his convention in 2011, Bert Norton ended his monthly articles in the Oklahoma Firefighter newspaper with the words “Get Involved.”

And the theme for Norton’s 117th OSFA Convention was “Fully Involved.” By the way, Lopez helped out with that convention -- the last time it was held in Midwest City.

June 8-11, 2011 • Midwest City, Oklahoma

129th OSFA CONVENTION Presentations

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

2023 First In Last Out Award

• Ronnie Walker, Ret. Lawton FD

2023 David Bain Award

• Matt Lay, Tulsa FD

2023 Department/Unit Citation

• Broken Arrow FD

2023 OSFA Board Presentation

• Cliff Davidson, Ringwood FD

2023 Medal of Valor

• A.J. Morrison, Tulsa FD

2023 Shey P. Francis Award

• Mike Harkey, Caney VFD

2023 OSFA Board Presentation

• Tony Lopez to Jim Ed Nimmo

2023 Stavros Scholarship Recipient

• Chloe Blossom, Oaks-Mission HS

2023 Stavros Scholarship Recipient

• Sean Klein, Central HS (Marlow)

Meet the 2023 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 $2,500 scholarships were awarded. The deserving five were picked from a total of 66 applicants.

Chloe Blossom

Oak-Mission High School

Daughter of Melvin D. Blossom Jr., Pawhuska FD Retired

Major: Education at Murray State

“I am very proud to have ties to the Oklahoma Fire Service. Thanks to my dad for all his years of hard work and for me to be able to have the opportunity for this amazing scholarship.”

Chayse Caram Dale High School

Daughter of Reagan Caram, Stillwater FD

Major: Forensic Science & Technology at University of Central Oklahoma

“I am so proud to be a part of a First Responder family, and I am beyond grateful for all that you guys do.”

Question & Answers

Here is what they said:

w Eldon Henderson, Ret. Enid: My favorite board game is Chess. It is a very ancient game enjoyed by millions worldwide. It is an abstract strategy game that does not include elements of luck, but only the skill of the players.

I’ve played chess since I was 10. And although I’m far from a master of the game, I still enjoy matching wits with others.

w Terry Essary, Stillwater: Code Names.

w Mike Kelley, Ret. OKC: Monopoly.

w Corey Conrady, Drummond: Clue.

w Tony Lopez, Midwest City: The Game of Life. I always played it with my girls when they were young.

w Keith Bryant, Ret. OKC: Trivial Pursuit.

w Tom Marcum, Mooreland: My favorite board game of all time is Aggravation. Some people in Oklahoma call it Wahoo. It’s a dice and marble game that I’ve played since I was a kid. It truly lives up to it’s name!

w Jeremy Goodrich, Yukon: Monopoly and Clue.

w Kendra Engle, Women’s Auxiliary: My favorite board game is Wahoo.

Oklahoma Firefighter asked last issue’s readers this question: What is your favorite board game?

w Darren Alexander, Cedar Country: I’m not much of a board game person, but I do love Trivial Pursuit. For some reason, I retain useless information and usually excel at these games, much to my wife’s chagrin when she says “How do you know that?”.

w Donnie Bennet, OKC: Monopoly.

w Aaron Burns, Ret. Broken Arrow: Without a doubt Monopoly.

w Richard Kelley, OKC: Risk.

w Marshall Dunnam, Ret. OKC: I love playing Sequence.

w Bryan West, OSU-FST: My favorite board game is Monopoly. I remember playing it with all my cousins when I was young. We also played a lot of cards.

w Michael Baker, Tulsa: I would say Pictionary. The reason I like Pictionary is that it has some level of activity, and you find out who can -- or cannot -- draw a simple picture. It is good for a group and watching the teams get frustrated with each other is always a win.

w Dan Little, Ret. Tulsa: Chess.

w Kara Owens, Piedmont: Monopoly.

w Greg Roberts, Ret.Norman: Sorry.

Sean Klein Central HS (Marlow)

Grandson of Kenneth W. Klein, Lawton FD Retired

Major: Biology at University of Oklahoma

Which of your achievements so far are you most proud of? “I was my class Valedictorian.”

What are your hopes for the future? “To become an orthopedic surgeon.”

Kelby Ott Omega High School

Son of John Ott, Ames VFD

Major: Animal Sciences at Oklahoma State University

“I am proud to know that not only my dad is currently serving, but that my grandpa is a retired volunteer fireman. I appreciate the dedication and hard work that firefighters provide to their communities. ”

Kinsley Schneider Fargo-Gage HS

Daughter of Matthew Schneider, Fargo VFD

Major: Animal Sciences at Oklahoma State University

“I’m extremely proud that my dad is a volunteer fireman. Being a volunteer fireman in our community is not just about putting out fires. It’s about serving the community and surrounding area whenever and however they are needed. The fire department and their spouses put on the Annual Fargo Festival the weekend after the fourth of July with a parade, games for all ages, and a meal. In a town of 325, we have around 150 people turn out for the annual fundraiser in June.”

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129th OSFA CONVENTION

Fun & Fashion

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

We have recently purchased and relocated to a new location in Wister, Oklahoma. We are working to provide more equipment options and services to our customers. If you need anything at a ll (Advice, insight, quotes, orders, etc.). Contact us anytime.

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OKLAHOMA IS CHEROKEE STRONG

Cherokee Nation is proud to support Oklahoma communities through education and schools, health care, law enforcement and infrastructure. Oklahoma is our home, and we are honored to be part of its success.

PRINCIPAL CHIEF CHUCK HOSKIN JR. DEPUTY CHIEF BRYAN WARNER

Mike Kelley: OSFA Executive Director’s Report

Greetings Brothers and Sisters!

I hope that each of you are having a wonderful summer and staying safe in this heat!

We started the summer in Tahlequah for our 129th annual convention. Many thanks to the Cherokee Nation, the Tulsa and Tahlequah Fire Departments, the many convention volunteers and President Jim Ed Nimmo for hosting a wonderful convention!

Make plans now to join us next year on June 13-15 for the 2024 OSFA Convention. President Tony Lopez and the Midwest City Fire Department look forward to hosting us for another great event.

Conventions require a lot of work and planning, and besides the people mentioned above, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank our incredible staff: Sheri Nickel, Raegan Layne, Madelyn Roth and Lance Gill for their hard work with the many board meetings, ORFA Convention, golf tournament and, of course, the OSFA Convention. These individuals work extremely hard for you, our members, year round and really stepped up for convention itself.

We are always looking for ways to provide value to you, our OSFA members. One way is to give you an opportunity to get group health benefits through being an OSFA member.

If you haven’t logged into the website and updated your information, I would encourage you to do so. There is obviously no obligation to enroll in the coverage, however I would suggest that everyone at least take a look. There will be guarantee issue products available during the month of August. This means no health questions or qualifying for the guarantee issue products during the open enrollment period. Our hope is that our members can take advantage of these offerings if it fits your needs.

We are in what is known as the interim period with the legislature. There will be interim studies conducted by the legislature on minimum standards and funding for our departments. Also, there

will be actuarial studies conducted on legislation that we helped move through the process.

Bills that have been sent to the actuary this session include an increase in the volunteer multiplier to $10 per year of service, a 2% COLA, a 4% COLA, and a $2,500 increase to the death benefit.

We will be monitoring the activity at the Capitol that potentially affects our members like the aforementioned.

Make sure that you check out our website at osfa. info for upcoming events and resources. Remember that anyone can be a leader and that you can learn from everyone that you meet! You have the privilege of serving your community, don’t take that for granted! Work to improve your knowledge and skills every day.

The best resource and support that we have is each other. So, lift one another up and be willing to listen and share your experience with others. You have the opportunity to be a firefighter and, in my opinion, there is no greater calling! Stay safe and may God Bless you and yours!

PURCHASE AN OKLAHOMA FIREFIGHTER LICENSE TAG!

• Oklahoma Firefighter tags cost $40 a year (on top of regular tag fees)

• $20 goes directly to the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum/Memorial

• Tags can be purchased from local tag agents any time during the year

• Tags can be customized to 6 letters as approved by the Tax Commission

Mike Kelley at the 2023 OSFA Convention banquet with, from left, Raegan Layne, Sheri Nickel, Madelyn Roth and wife Kristi

Sheri Nickel: OSFA Administrative Director’s Report

Hello and welcome to summer. We have transitioned from a drought-ridden state that was literally burning up to flooding rains and the good ol’ summer heat in just the last six months. This is just another example of how diverse Oklahoma is.

The weather hasn’t been the only thing changing for us though. This year has flown by here at the OSFA.

Our calendar has been jam-packed since the first of the year and the staff has been trying to recover from the craziness. It is amazing that the work that just a few employees of an organization can get done.

The guys in the museum have worked several different softball parking events earning money to keep the memorial up and running.

Gene has the fountain flowing and it is just beautiful right now. He has also been working on the new shop building and adjusting the water flow around the building to keep it from flooding.

Lance has kept the museum gift shop in tip-top shape while hosting summer tours for people of all ages.

The biggest change of the year has been the implementation of digital membership. Love it or hate it, it is our new normal.

Both Madelyn and Raegan and sometimes myself fields calls every day from members who don’t understand it, but the calls aren’t coming in as frequently as everyone is learning how to use it.

We are certainly looking forward to the 2024 membership season to see if it will truly be everything we hoped for.

In addition to dealing with that change, the staff has rocked the event season. Not only has Raegan coordinated everything from the Chief’s Winter Workshop to the State Fire School this year, she also completed her Bachelor’s Degree and graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a degree in Strategic Communications.

Mike, Don and Julia survived another legislative session. A couple of bills were sent for actuarial studies, some bills died and a couple were even signed by the Governor that will benefit our firefighters.

And 2023 isn’t over yet!

We are gearing up for the Memorial Golf Tournament, the annual Statewide Memorial and we are looking forward to our inaugural firefighter’s gala.

These three events are coming up fast and we hope to have a good turnout for each one.

We are also in the final months of the 2018 SAFER grant that has funded hundreds of hours of training for volunteer firefighters across the state. There is still a lot of money left for those of you who want to get your Firefighter-2 certification.

We have made application for another $5.1 million dollars to continue funding training, and we are keeping our fingers crossed that we will receive that award.

I recommend that you follow our Facebook page or visit our website frequently to stay up-to- date with the OSFA. And as always, don’t hesitate to call the office with any questions.

Enjoy the rest of your summer and stay safe!

OSFA STAFF

Executive Director Mike Kelley mkelley@osfa.info

Administrative Director Sheri Nickel sherin@osfa.info

Membership Coordinator Madelyn Roth madelynr@osfa.info

Events Coordinator Raegan Layne raeganl@osfa.info

Publications Penelope Soldan penelopes@osfa.info

MUSEUM STAFF

Museum Director Gene Brown geneb@osfa.info

Museum Archivist Bob Noll bobn@osfa.info

Museum Assistant Lance Gill lanceg@osfa.info

Museum Volunteer Greg Roberts groberts1960@gmail.com

Museum Volunteer Andie Hernandez

Madelyn Roth, Raegan Layne and Sheri Nickel

Troy Calvert: Oklahoma Fire Chaplain Report

Somehow, I wound up with the assignment of submitting back-to-back articles for Oklahoma Firefighter.

There is some irony in this situation as unfortunately, part of what I wrote about in the last issue really happened in between these two articles.

In the last issue, I said the following: “Because we are a small town, there is a higher-than-normal chance that we may personally know or even be related to the people that we are summoned to help.”

Last month, I was on vacation in South Dakota with my family, when I received a call from our department informing me of a terrible MVA that tragically ended in the death of two well-known citizens in our part of Western Oklahoma.

The incident location was technically out of our response area, but Clinton Fire often responds to assist nearby departments. This night was no exception as Clinton responded.

As it turned out, the victims were well known friends and relatives of many that responded to the scene that night. My heart sank when I heard this, and I felt completely helpless. The best that I could offer was

condolences over the phone and calls to make sure that someone locally was in contact with all the affected responders.

A debriefing was scheduled for all that were involved in this incident, and I was invited to attend as I often assist other nearby departments.

If you have never witnessed a debriefing, everything that is said there stays there. Confidentiality is critical to the success of any debriefing. There are no recordings or notes taken. Everyone in the room has the opportunity to talk about their role in the incident, as well as what they are feeling with no time limits. Sometimes there are a lot of tears shed, which is extremely healthy.

I was a silent observer in this session, but I teared up just trying to imagine what each of those present were going through. I will say that it touched my heart. This and other debriefings that I have been a part of only serve to reinforce my belief of their necessity and effectiveness.

I cannot stress enough the importance of timely defusings and debriefings after traumatic incidents. It does not have to be a physical trauma to have detrimental effects on all of us, as trauma takes on many forms. Loss of sleep, nightmares and depression are common problems that the human body

experiences.

This can lead to alcohol and substance abuse, personality changes, withdrawal from others and even divorce or suicide.

While some of us may handle these situations better than others, none of us are completely immune to the effects.

I also want to stress that support should not end after the debriefing, as follow up is critically essential. Everyone processes these events differently and on different timelines. It takes as much time as needed.

Follow up support is not only the responsibility of a Chaplain, but everyone’s responsibility. Remember to be your brother or sister’s keeper every single day. If you are not comfortable talking with others, find someone who is, like your department Chaplain.

If your department does not have a Chaplain, reach out to us at okfirechaplains.org. Any of us will be happy to personally assist or put you in touch with the appropriate people or resources.

James 1:12 – Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

Clinton FD

70 attendees representing 20 FDs

Convention Photos by Greg Roberts, Norman FD Retired

Mike Duncan: ORFA President’s Report

Hello everyone! I’m excited to be the President of the Oklahoma Retired Firefighter Association.

We are working on recruitment of new members for the Retirees’ Association and going to areas to promote it.

On July 17, we were in Wagoner County, met with the Chiefs at their County meeting and handed out some some flyers and applications.

On July 20, we were in Medford, met with them and handed out some applications.

We have some legislation we are supporting.

There’s the multiplier for the volunteers to help increase their retirement. The volunteers need a raise in their retirement.

We have 2 COLA bills that have been introduced, one for 2% and one for 4%. We are working with our Senators and Representatives promoting these. Our retirees need a raise, also.

We will work hard on promoting the multiplier for the volunteers and a COLA for our retirees, along with increasing our membership.

If you would like for us to come meet with your department, or if you would like to start a County Retirement Association, give us a call. We would like to come and talk to your group.

Drive safely, as schools will be opening soon.

Q&A with Mike Duncan

ORFA’s new President was born in Tulsa and raised in Bartlesville.

He has been a volunteer firefighter since 1975, starting out with the Tri-County Emergency Fire Service, then going to the Washington County Fire Department and finally joining the Dewey Fire Department in 1995, where he retired in 2017.

In a question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Duncan, 71, shared the following:

When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter?

When I was in high school.

How’d you go about getting into the fire service?

I joined a volunteer department.

What did you like best about being a firefighter? All of it.

What are your hopes for the future?

To help make the Oklahoma Fire Service the best it can be.

What was the highlight of the 2023 ORFA Convention for you?

Being able to see and talk to old and new Brothers and Sisters of the Fire Service.

2023-24 ORFA EXECUTIVE BOARD

PRESIDENT

Mike Duncan Dewey FD Ret. mduncan51@aol.com

1ST VICE PRESIDENT

Dr. Erick Reynolds Milfay FD Ret. rerick@osufpp.org

2ND VICE PRESIDENT

Marshall Dunnam OKC FD Ret. dunnamm@yahoo.com

3RD VICE PRESIDENT

Gordon Gingrich

Tulsa FD Ret. gordongingrich@gmail.com

PAST PRESIDENT

James Fullingim Norman FD Ret. nfdchief@hotmail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Tippy Pierce Moore FD Ret. fftip@swbell.net

Ret. Dewey FD

ORFA Board Members at 2023 OSFA Convention Banquet

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Q&A with Gordon Gingrich

ORFA’s new 3rd Vice President was born and raised in Tulsa. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1979 (Bachelor of Business Administration; Finance) and from Tulsa Junior College in 1982 (Fire Engineering & Safety).

Gingrich joined the Tulsa Fire Department in 1980, and his first assignment was in District 4, E-10 where he served for six years. After 26 years of service, he retired in 2006.

He also served on the Board of Directors for the Firefighters Credit Union for approximately 20 years, serving as chairman for most of that time. And he was on the Board of Directors for the Greater Tulsa YMCA for approximately 15 years, earning the honor of Tulsa Metro YMCA Volunteer of the Year in 2012.

Gingrich and his wife Karen are currently realtors with Keller Williams Advantage.

In a question-and-answer session with Oklahoma Firefighter, Gingrich shared the following:

When did you know you wanted to be a firefighter?

My father served in the Tulsa Police Dept. and Detective Office as I was growing up. He served as FOP President and was a former Chairman of the State Police Pension Board. His service influenced my decision to be a Civil Servant.

What were some highlights of your fire service career?

The day I was promoted to Driver (Lieutenant), I was asked to accept a “Special Assignment” to install and train TFD personnel on a new 800 Mhz radio system.

When that task was completed, I was asked to represent the TFD for the installation of an E911 System and train the Dispatch Staff on a new Computer Aided Dispatch System. It then became my responsibility to manage the TFD Dispatch Division.

After 20 years of administrative work, which included many special projects such as building the Department Budget for several years and Auditing Fire Supply and Records, I retired in 2006 as a Staff Officer.

What were highlights of the 2023 ORFA Convention for you?

My thanks to all that supported me (and a special thank you to Dick Cagle) in becoming the 3rd Vice President of the ORFA. I look forward to working with the outstanding Executive Board and moving the Retirees needs forward.

My hope is that we can expand our membership and continue to grow our influence with the Legislature.

2023 ORFA Past Presidents Lunch at the Oklahoma Firefighters Museum

ORFA members playing in the 2023 OSFA Convention Golf Tournament

Ada Allison: OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Report

I am so glad to be back on the OSFA Women’s Auxillary Board. I hope I can be there to help anyway I can with anything that needs to be done.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve on the board again. I was president in 1994-1995 and I enjoyed it so much. I was president when they broke ground for the Oklahoma Firefighters Memorial.

I haven’t been at the convention for a few years because my husband Herb Allison (Tulsa FD ???) was having health problems, and I really missed them. Herb passed away on Oct. 7, 2022. We were married for 37 years, and were together for five years before that. Between the two of us we have 11 children, 39 grand-children and 25 great grand-children.

Thank you so much to everyone who worked so hard to put the convention together in Tahlequah. I hope everyone had a great time.

I would really like to thank everyone who donated items to the Ladies Auxilary Silent Auction. I would really love to see our Auxillary grow, but we need more members to be able to do that. I would like to invite all the ladies and or their husbands to see everything we do and what we are all about.

Oklahoma Firefighters Museum Needs Your Help

Picture above is what we think is one of the few -- if not the only -- hand engine that ever served in Oklahoma. The engine currently is located in the Beaumont (Texas) FD Museum.

We traced the engine from a picture that was taken in Norman, OK, around 1955. The hand engine was in several locations, primarily in the state of Texas, where it finally ended its journey.

We located the son of the gentleman who purchased this unit and he remembers going with his father in a large truck to get it. He was 8 at the time and remembers only going to a location “somewhere near Tulsa.”

This unit stopped briefly at one of the Norman FD stations, then went to Fort Worth FD Training Academy, then to Grand Prairie and finally to its current location in Beaumont.

The question that we’re trying to answer is this: Where in Oklahoma did this unit serve?

Does anyone have the answer to this question? If you do, please contact Bob Noll at 405-226-9348 or bobn@osfa.info.

This is a very unusual part of the history of the fire service in Oklahoma. If we can get some definitive evidence of its service, then we can try to get this unit returned to Oklahoma for exhibition in the Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum.

The Oklahoma Firefighter’s Museum is making an attempt to locate the names of career and volunteer members who died while serving in the military.

The criteria would be that the deceased veteran would have to either have been drafted or volunteer for any branch of the military. And, as a result of this service, suffered fatal injuries.

Tentatively, the intent is to have a panel at the Memorial here that lists these members for special recognition.

Gene Brown: Firefighters Museum Director’s Report

Hello Everyone! Things have been very busy around the museum.

We parked cars for the Women’s College World Series. This year, we raised $51,000 for your Museum and Memorial. Also, we collected another $13,000 parking cars for the Big 12 Softball Tournament.

The 2023 Ride to Remember brought in $14,000. We also parked cars for the high school state softball tournaments for $2,500 more. That totals over $80,000 this year.

Sorry I missed everyone at convention. We were busy here at the museum. I hated to miss it, but it was worth it to the museum. Our new shop is moving forward. The plumbers and electricians started July 10. This will have us ready to move in and get things moving. We completed the parking lot lights, thanks to Cliff Davidson Electric. Thank you, Cliff, for your much-needed help.

Please remember that the Memorial Golf Tournament is Sept. 13 at Lincoln Park Golf Course. Mark the date to attend. It is always a great time to get together with old friends. We look forward to seeing everyone there.

Stay cool and safe this summer!

Ret. The Village FD

-- Bob Noll, Retired Yukon & Firefighters Museum Archivist

Museum Assistant Lance Gill at the 2023 OSFA Convention

Hand Engine that served in Oklahoma

Jan Agnew

Died Jan. 19 (Age 60)

Sam’s Point VFD (2021 to 2023)

Ralph Callaway Jr.

Died June 7 (Age 60)

Newcastle FD (2001 to 2023)

Lynn Cross

Died July 16 (Age 65)

Elmwood FD (1988 to 2023)

Jerimy Jackson

Died June 16 (Age 35) Grove FD (2021 to 2023)

Brian Jantzen

Died May 1 (Age 44)

Ringwood FD (2011 to 2023)

405-834-5975

Danny E. Jones

Died May 30 (Age 63)

Tulsa FD (1991 to 2012)

W.J. Morgan

Died April 19 (Age 53)

Tuttle FD (1993 to 2017)

Sammy J. Perryman

Died April 15 (Age 80)

Tulsa FD (1970 to 1983)

Ricky D. Powell

Died June 30 (Age 61)

Tulsa FD (1985 to 2011)

Jared Rhodes

Died July 11 (Age 33) Sand Springs FD (2013 to 2023)

Donald Ralph Walker Died April 26 (Age 83) Tulsa FD (1968 to 1998)

Galen Shores: Started Family’s Fire Legacy

In 1973, Galen Shores became a volunteer firefighter at Texhoma.

“There weren’t enough people to fight fire,” he said. “They needed more help and I knew I could help.

“And when we finished at a fire, we would all sit together to share our experience to learn how to be better. The camaraderie within the fire service both at the station and off duty is what I enjoyed the most.”

He spent 16 years at Texhoma FD, reaching the rank of Fire Chief. Then he spent another 15 years at Moore FD, retiring in 2004 as Corporal.

And following his footsteps into the fire service have been 12 other family members, including his son Toby and grandson Trae.

“I think it’s so neat

Multi-Generational

For this edition of Oklahoma Firefighter, we are highlighting members of the Oklahoma Fire Service who give a different and deeper meaning to the term “fire family.”

While most everyone would attest that most days, your department feels like one big family -- not always a happy one, but a family -- there are truly so many families who have deep generational ties to the community and department they serve.

THE SHORES

Fire Family History

We some firefighter state, inspiration continuing such All OSFA Layne Editor We families your

to see how inside my own family, we have grown to so many who are part of the Oklahoma Fire Service,” Galen said. “I love seeing my family enjoy their lives as firefighters and watching all my buddies I worked with continue on.

“My best friend since childhood, Tippy Pierce, finally joined me in Texhoma after I kept on and on after him, and he’s the reason I ended up at a Moore. That has been a great part of my career.”

Dalton Farris: Fire Brings Community Together

Two years ago, Dalton Farris joined the Goodwell VFD. Last year, he joined Guymon FD and is currently in Paramedic School.

“I’d say Major Toby Shores is the one who made me want to become a firefighter,” Dalton said of his cousin. “He told me it was a great career and not just a job, and how there is nothing like it.

“And having a cousin of mine be my Assistant Chief is also amazing, He picks at my brain and I pick at his.”

One memorable moment for Dalton so far -- although not a

good one --was being part of the crew battling a fire at his parent’s house.

“We were not able to save it, but being able to fight along with my brother Drew and people I can call my family, it meant a lot,” Dalton said.

“But what really meant a lot is seeing how the community comes together after to help. So many times as firefighters we get caught up in the fire and we forget about the effects afterward. It was very humbling and a time I’ll never forget.”

• Galen Shores (1st Generation)

Texhoma FD (1973 to 1989)

Moore FD (1989 to 2004)

• Toby Shores (2nd Gen.)

Ripley FD (1993 to 1996)

Midwest City FD (2003 to now)

• Trae Shores (3rd Gen.)

Newcastle FD (2019 to 2022)

Tuttle FD (2022 to now)

• Gage Pittman (Toby’s son-in-law)

Anadarko FD (2021 to 2022)

El Reno FD (2022 to now)

• Mark Meyer (Galen’s nephew)

Verdigris FD (1996 to 1998)

Tulsa FD (1998 to 2013)

• Kinsey (Meyer) Blunt (Mark’s daughter)

Fair Oaks VFD (2017 to 2022)

Tulsa FD (2023)

• Brenden Blunt (Kinsey’s husband)

Fair Oaks VFD (2017 to now)

Tulsa Airport FD (2022 to now)

• Hannah Bittner (Mark’s niece)

Rolling Hills VFD (2010 to 2017)

• Ronnie Lathrop (Galen’s brother-in-law)

EMS for 40+ years, OK & TX Panhandles

• Myron Lathrop (Ronnie’s son)

Fire Protection Field (2001 to now)

• Scott Lathrop (Ronnie’s son)

Guymon FD (2006 to now)

• Dalton Farris (Galen’s great-nephew) Goodwell VFD (2021 to 2022)

Guymon FD (2022 to now)

• Drew Farris (Galen’s great-nephew) Goodwell VFD (2022 to now)

Pictured on the cover are 11 of the 13 Shores Fire Family members at their 2023 Family Reunion in July

Galen Shores with 5 of his 7 grandchildren in 2004, right before his retirement

Galen Shores with Moore FD crew

Dalton Farris

Multi-Generational Fire Families

We took time getting to know some of the multi-generational firefighter families in our great state, and we want to share the inspiration and pride they feel continuing a legacy that leaves an impact.

All stories were written by OSFA Events Coordinator Raegan Layne

and Oklahoma Firefighter Editor Penelope Soldan.

We know there are so many families we probably missed, but commitment and dedication

do not go unnoticed. We love using the Oklahoma Firefighter magazine to shine a spotlight on the many different elements, perspectives and stories of being a firefighter in Oklahoma.

We try to always post on our Facebook page @OklahomaStateFirefightersAssn, when we are looking for specifics for an upcoming edition. Be sure to watch for our posts in case you fit what we are looking for!

Scott Lathrop Enjoys Family Reunion Tales

Scott Lathrop grew up around the ambulance station in Boise City where his father was a Paramedic..

“I remember being strapped to a backboard many times acting as a patient for monthly EMS meetings,” Scott said. “I also remember traveling with my father to Amarillo Texas on EMS transfers throughout my younger years. Those memories and many more definitely inspired my career choice as a Public Servant!”

Scott, Galen’s nephew, started as a volunteer firefighter at Guymon FD in 2006, and a year later became a career firefighter. He is currently Assistant Chief of Training & Operations.

“Being a part of a multi-generational firefighter family always makes our family reunions more interesting,” Scott said. “I enjoy the stories that get told that get bigger every year they are told!”

Toby Shores: Loves Being Part of Oklahoma Fire Service Family

Two people inspired Toby Shores to become a firefighter -- his dad Galen Shores and former OSFA Legislative Director Pete Stavros.

He has been serving since 1993, starting at Ripley VFD. He joined Midwest City FD in 2003 and is currently a Major/ EMT-B.

“As a whole, my time in the Oklahoma Fire Service has been filled with family, and not just the family I come from,” Toby said.

“The brotherhood of the fire service creates its own family through the time you spend together. Our days and nights are filled with training, working, having fun, pulling pranks, saving property and lives, seeing the best and the worst day in and day out, cooking, laughing, and much more. Being in the

fire service is a lifestyle, one I’m thankful for everyday.”

Toby’s wife Missy also enjoys the fire family life. And when she saw the topic for this issue, she took the time to coordinate family responses and photos.

“Thank you for this opportunity to showcase our family,” said Missy, who was multi-tasking between taking a CPR Class for nursing school and gathering information from family members. “Fire runs deep through our veins!

“Several of the wives in our family are involved in local and state levels of Ladies Auxiliary, and all of us at some point have been involved with Hydrants of Hope. As a family, we are so proud of that part of our legacy that was started and continues because of Mark, Selina and Kinsey Meyer.”

Kinsey Blunt: Inspired by Her Dad, Taught by Her Cousin

Kinsey Blunt’s dad Mark Meyer founded Hydrants of Hope in 2012. A year later, he was medically discharged from Tulsa FD with stage 4 epthiliod fibro sarcoma.

“Unfortunately, my dad passed away before I had a chance to learn any skills from him,” Kinsey said. “But I will say that it was pretty awesome to have my cousin, Toby Shores, as my firefighter instructor

through OSU-FST. Not too many people get to learn from a family member like that.”

Kinsey tried 4 years for Tulsa Fire before getting the call that her dreams were coming true.

“Unfortunately, my path in the fire service ended abruptly, but my love for the firefighters who serve and have served did not,” Kinsey said. “A piece of my heart will always be in fire service.”

Trae Shores: Carrying on Legacy Gage Pittman: Married into Fire Family

Trae Shores started as a volunteer firefighter at Newcastle FD in 2019. Now he is a Firefighter/A-EMT at Tuttle FD.

“Growing up with my dad and grandpa being firefighters and watching it from a kid’s perspective, then joining in and learning it as a firefighter myself has made a big impact on my career,” Trae said.

“It’s pretty special to carry on the legacy. And I enjoy being able to pass on the knowledge and skills I’ve learned from those before me to the next generation behind me.”

When Gage Pittman watched firefighters help his mom, he knew he wanted to do that.

“They treated her as if she were the most important person to them,” said Gage, who started at Anadarko FD in 2021 and is now a Firefighter/A-EMT at El Reno.

“My immediate family was not in the fire service, but marrying into this family and seeing the generations and now getting to be part of that and continuing on that legacy is an honor.”

Another thing Gage is proud of was getting hired as a firefighter at a young age,

“It can be tough to get looked at without a lot of experience, but persevering until the right department found me was worth the time it took. I’m looking forward to seeing where my career leads.”

Trae Shores

Gage Pittman

Kinsey Blunt with dad Mark Meyer

Toby Shores & Scott Lathrop

Evan & Wes Stevens: Always Racing to be First One to Respond

Evan and Wes Stevens both live about the same distance from Tipton FD. So when calls come in, the brothers race to see who can respond to the station first.

“I think I am actually on the losing end here,” said Evan. “But either way, we usually end up in either the same truck, or within the first two trucks responding.”

Neither brother aspired to be a firefighter. But both knew a bit about the fire service.

Their grandfather worked on the fire crew at Speedway Park in New Mexico. And growing up, both knew Tipton Fire Chief Benjie Miligan.

THE STEVENS Fire Family History

• George Stevens (1st Generation) Speedway Park (NM) Fire Crew (1951 to 1979)

• Evan Stevens (2nd Gen.) Tipton FD (2018 to now)

• Wes Stevens (2nd Gen.) Tipton FD (2019 to now)

“Benjie was my buddy’s father,” Evan said. “He was always in the department, and being around them growing up, I was able to experience the excitement of him rushing to drop what he was doing to respond.

“I never intended to be a firefighter, but one day after moving home, we had a brief chat. I didn’t think I was in town enough to be considered

for a position. After he expressed the need for people and how my extensive construction background could help, he convinced me otherwise.”

For Wes, it was a different story.

“My brother suckered me into it,” he said. “But I couldn’t imagine not being in the department and giving back to our community.”

Both said that their proudest achievement to date is being among Tipton FD’s first volunteer firefighters to receive certifications. They both completed Firefighter 1 training that was offered through the OSFA Safer Grant.

“The firefighter training took place at a local department where we knew a few of the crew members,” Wes said. “They didn’t take it easy on us at all, but we know that they challenged us out of love and a desire for us to come home every time.”

Marcus Koch: From Long Line of OKC Firefighters

Marcus Koch currently serves as Lieutenant at the Oklahoma City Fire Department, and he is proud to be able to serve the citizens of Oklahoma City since 2006.

The Koch’s are no strangers to Oklahoma City firehouses. Marcus serves along side his brother currently, Michael Koch, both following in the footsteps of their father, grandfather and great grandfather, who all served at the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

“Oh and then there is ‘the other Koch’ ... my cousin,” Marcus said. “Yup, if this makes it to print, he’s gonna laugh and I’ll run as he’s doing so!”

While it was obviously a topic of discussion in the household, firefighting was never some-

thing inspired; he felt it was more influenced. He said even though he is a 4th generation firefighter, the profession was never pushed on him. It was a decision he made based on his own calling, desire and love for the camaraderie he got to witness by growing up at the fire station.

When asked to share a story or two of any nature, Marcus shared the following:

“Family or friends who come and go on this crazy ride of a career have many stories that they can laugh about, cry about, or were part of some event that goes beyond measure unless you were there. As I sit here, smiling at thoughts of the jokes, games and conversations that have occurred so far, it allows me to realize that the best way to keep those memories in such a great light is to keep them with the individuals involved. On a side note: If you are outside OKC and you know my name then you have, and will continue to have, all the laughs you need from the OSFA conventions.”

The pride in the long history of service to Oklahoma City Marcus feels is immeasurable. And his proudest moment was pursuing this career, and making it happen.

“To all firefighters who do this job for the love of others, the drive to better others around you, and the determination to better yourself, I tip my hat.”

THE KOCHS Fire Family History

• Floyd Koch (1st Generation) OKC FD (1938 to 1961)

• Edward Koch Sr. (2nd Gen.) OKC FD (1951 to 1974)

• Edward Koch Jr. (3rd Gen.) OKC FD (1980 to 2011)

• Michael Koch (4th Gen.) OKC FD (2000 to now)

• Marcus Koch (4th Gen.) OKC FD (2006 to now)

• Douglas Harris Jr. (cousin) OKC FD (2007 to now)

• Elisha Koch (Michael’s wife) Woodcrest FD (1997 to 2001)

• John Mitchell (Elisha’s father) Woodcrest FD (1997 to 2016)

• Shawn Mitchell (Elisha’s brother) Woodcrest FD (1997 to now)

Brothers Marcus and Michael Koch

Michael Koch Marcus Koch

Brothers Evan and Wes Stevens

Floyd Koch

Edward Koch Sr. Edward Koch Jr.

Stevens brothers (far left and far right) on hose lines

Gary Vap: Training Next Generation of Firefighters, Including His Sons

In 2015, Gary Vap retired after 30 years as a career firefighter. But then he found himself back in the fire service three years later.

He was hired by Pioneer Technology Center in Ponca City to develop and implement a Firefighter/EMT program. He also works part-time for OSU-Fire Service Training, providing training assistance for rural fire departments in the north central region of the state.

“ I have had the privilege to train the next generation of young firefighters, including both of my sons,” Gary said. “It is very rewarding to see former students riding the rigs and being a part of the best job in the world!”

And Gary says the fire service found him.

“While home from college, working on the family farm, I came across a multi victim fatality vehicle accident on a rural country road where the car was on its top in a creek,” Gary said. “After going for help (before the days of cell phones), I returned to the scene and provided what care I could to the victims.

“After first responders arrived at the scene, I helped with the extrication of the victims. And from that experience, I knew what I wanted to do and did pursue the path that led me to the fire service.”

Gary inspired his sons Daniel and Jacob to become firefighters. He also has two brothers-inlaw and numerous cousins serving or retired from the fire service. And he is proud to be part of a multi-generational fire family.

“The fire service is steeped in the history of legacy firefighters,” Gary said. “Many departments value their generational ties to the departments and to their communities in which they serve.

“The traditions carried down make it more than just a job. It is an amazing family of which I am proud to be a part. I didn’t push either of my sons to follow my career path. I wanted them to find their own way, but seeing them advance and grow in their careers sure makes for a proud dad.”

• Gary Vap (1st Generation) Newkirk FD (1985 to 1987) Ponca City FD (1987-2015)

• Daniel Vap (2nd Gen.) Ponca City FD (2020 to now)

• Jacob Vap (2nd Gen.) Blackwell

Daniel Vap took his dad’s Firefighter/EMT class right out of high school. And he was Gary’s first student to obtain an EMT license.

“I grew up in the fire house and seeing the love he had for the job and how everyone up there was like family was awesome,” Daniel said. “For as long as I can remember, the co-workers he was most close with I never really knew as my dad’s co-workers. To me, they were uncles. To him, they were brothers.

“When I enrolled in my dad’s class and got to get hands-on experience, I loved it and it sealed the deal on what I wanted in a career.

“It’s awesome being able to swap stories with my dad and brother, and I feel we learn a little bit from each when we do.

“My dad left a great legacy at PCFD and my brother’s co-workers tell me that he is already shaping up to be a great fireman/AEMT. I’m proud of both of them.”

Daniel Vap: Grew Up With Lots of ‘Uncles’ Jacob Vap: Honored to Serve His Community

Jacob Vap has always had a love for helping others and working in a family/team-oriented environment.

So he became a firefighter like his dad Gary and brother Daniel.

“I think it’s a very honorable life, and I’m glad I can share these values with my father and brother,” said Jacob said.

“There are tons of funny moments from at the dinner table or playing pranks on each other, to the things we’ve heard patients tell us.

Jacob prides himself on being able to help members of community in their times of need.

And he is the proud father of twin boys he and his wife welcomed into their family in July.

Daniel and Gary Vap

Jacob Vap

Travis Fortune: Can Still Recite ‘Kids of Volunteer FF Commandments’

Travis Fortune began his firefighting career at Longdale Fire Department the day he turned 18, serving there with his father.

After being at Longdale FD for eight years leaving as the Assistant Chief, he joined Fairview Fire and served the rest of his 25 years working his way through the ranks.

He become Fairview Fire Chief in 2014. And after 25 years of service, he retired in March of 2022.

Growing up in the fire service, Travis remembers his excitement when his dad would let him ride his bike up to the station for a fire meeting or even ride on the truck during their truck checks.

It was these moments alongside his father, and his father’s chief Paul Hinchey, that inspired him to be a firefighter.

Travis even still remembers the “Kids of Volunteer Firefighter’s commandments”:

• Never park your bicycle/toys behind dad’s truck.

• Keep shoes out of the door and toys off the sidewalk, in case a late night call comes in and he has to respond, so he doesn’t trip over anything.

• Vacations and family events will be delayed because of a call.

• Don’t you dare plan anything on the weekend of the annual benefit supper because the whole family WILL be going, no excuses.

• If the fire phone rang in the house, don’t you dare answer it, unless you wanted dad to smack you in the head with the phone.

• Most important -- don’t let him catch you in the way at the fire scene. You can see the action, but only from a distance.

Growing up, Travis also recalls his excitement when his mother would wake him up in the middle of the night and take him with her to structure fires, because that’s what the wives did on night calls to deliver coffee, food or water.

THE FORTUNES Fire Family History

• Kenny Fortune (1st Generation)

Longdale FD (1974 to 2002)

• Travis Fortune (2nd Gen.)

Longdale FD (1997 to 2005)

Fairview FD (2005 to 2022)

• Brenner Fortune (3rd Gen.)

Fairview FD (2022 to now)

Vance Air Force FF (2023 to now)

His father Kenny Fortune served 25 years on Longdale FD and retired as Assistant Chief. His son Brenner Fortune is a firefighter at Vance Air Force Base and volunteers at Fairview Fire, as well.

“It is a great feeling to be involved in a multi-generational fire family knowing how much my father and myself and hopefully my son wants to serve their community and make a difference,” Travis said.

“I truly think it’s passion that’s bred into a person, and I hope my father felt and my son feels the same pride and dedication I did for wanting to help the people in need on possibly some of the worst days of their lives!”

Cameron Cooper: Wasting No Time Following in His Father’s Footsteps

Cameron Cooper’s hero was his dad, and he wanted to be a firefighter just like him.

So when he was a high school junior, his dad suggested he volunteer somewhere.

He was too young to join the Shawnee FD where his dad served. But he was welcomed into the bay doors at Strother FD, which offers a program allowing high school students to experience what it’s like to be a firefighter.

“This was a whole new world,” Cameron said. “Yes, I had grown up in a firehouse watching my dad train and go out on rides, but to experience this, knowing I was about to enter a whole new world, is an amazing but terrifying feeling.

THE COOPERS Fire Family History

• Craig A. Cooper (1st Generation) Shawnee FD (2000 to 2017)

• Cameron Cooper (2nd Gen.) Strother FD (2020 to 2022) OKC FD (2022-now)

• Lane Cooper (2nd Gen.) Tecumseh FD (2022 to now)

After graduating from high school, Cameron took the next step and enrolled in the OSUOKC Fire Academy to earn certifications and receive training to become a better firefighter. And on Sept. 22, 2022, he received a job offer from the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

“I immediately accepted, and the next chapter of my life began,” Cameron said. “The thing in my career that I’m most proud of is being able to call myself an Oklahoma City Fire Department firefighter. I wholeheartedly believe it is the best department in the entire world, and I’m extremely thankful and humble to be a part of it.”

Sadly, Cameron’s dad was not there to pin the badge on his chest when he graduated from the Class 22-2 Recruit Academy. Craig died of terminal brain cancer in 2021 at age 53.

“He was taken way too soon,” Cameron said. “I remember often visiting him at the firehouse; I remember him letting me climb all over the rigs, put on his gear, play with the tools and spray water. His career was cut short, but he loved the fire service. He once said, ‘I’m just an ordinary man doing extraordinary things for extraordinary people.’

“It is a very great feeling to be a part of a legacy firefighter family. It’s not just about being a firefighter. It is about continuing a legacy that was cut short, but knowing that my brother Lane and I are picking up where my father left off is an honor. And we will do our best to make our dad proud.”

Kenny, Travis and Brenner Fortune

Cameron Cooper and snapshots with his dad Craig

Mike Ward: Family on Tulsa FD for 95 Years

Mike Ward has served on the Tulsa FD for 33 years and counting.

And counting all his family through the years, they have served on the Tulsa FD for 95 consecutive years.

“It’s is a blessing and responsibility handed down to me, my wife and my son currently to carry on the good reputation our generations before us have built,” Mike said. “It’s intimidating but something we take pride in, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Mike has also been blessed to have had extensive conversations with all of his family that served on Tulsa Fire.

And he has tried to soak it all in ... fighting fire in the 1920s ... having to obtain an individual radio license to operate the first “on the fire truck radio” in the 1940s ... the night club arson fires of the 1950s and 1960s through the large fires of urban decay.

Even with so many influentional people in his life, those who inspire him most are his parents.

“My dad, a decorated Vietnam Veteran who served on very active fire companies, worked as a brick mason as a second job to make ends meet and was a school board member in our town of Big Cabin where I grew up,” Mike said.

“And my mother, who served as a stay-athome mom, worked on the Tulsa Fire Ladies Auxiliary (this was prior to females being hired on TFD) and went back to college to become a teacher. Both of them are service-driven people with huge hearts who work hard and care for others.”

Mike is currently a Captain at Engine 17, the same place he roamed as a child because it was dad’s station, too.

“Every single time I walk into the station, I’m truly a kid again, and it’s awesome that my life has come full circle back to Engine 17,” Mike said. “After 33 years, I still can’t wait to go to work. How many people get to say that?!

“I hope to keep doing this until I age out at 65 and then I hope for a long happy retirement traveling the world and spending time with family.”

THE WARDS Fire Family History

• Farl Wagoner (1st Generation)

Tulsa FD (1928 to 1962)

• Quincy Carrens (2nd Gen.)

Tulsa FD (1946 to 1975)

• Darrell Ward (3rd Gen.)

Tulsa FD (1969 to 2003)

• Mike Ward (4th Gen.)

Tulsa FD (1991 to now)

• Ginger Ward (Mike’s wife)

Tulsa FD (1997 to now)

• Colin Ward (5th Gen.)

Tulsa FD (2019 to now)

Colin Ward: Inspired by Dad & Great Grandad

Growing up, Colin Ward thought it was funny how someone always seemed to know his dad Mike.

“ I later learned that they were fellow firefighters or other 911 members,” Colin said. “I always grew up wanting to be just like my dad and save people.

“When I was a junior in high school and trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life, I asked my dad some questions about the job and took an EMT course. I learned about all the ways that firefighters could make a difference in the lives of others.”

Quincy Carrens, Colin’s great grandfather, also made a difference in his life.

“He once told me a story about a fire in

a bowling alley,” Colin remembers. “He said that when they were about to make entry, a popcorn cart rolled out of the door completely engulfed in flames. They knew they had a good fire.

“He said that when they made entry, the flames on the lanes were blue. He described it as a chaotically beautiful experience -- one that could only be experienced by those in the fire service.”

Colin considers joining the fire service to be one of his greatest decisions.

“From becoming part of a family with my crew to the personal growth I’ve achieved over the last few years, the department has helped me to become a better version of myself,” he said.

Colin, Mike and Ginger Ward

Colin Ward

Mike Ward, Darrell Ward, Quincy Carrens & Farl Wagoner

Mike Ward with his grandfather Quincy Carrens

Mike Ward, left, with his son Colin and dad Darrell

Julian Miller: Proud of Family and Collinsville FD Crew

Julian started his Emergency Services career in 1998 working for Alva EMS. In 2000, he began work with Collinsville EMS. In 2008 Collinsville EMS and Collinsville Fire combined services.

Since being hired with CFD, he has held the positions of firefighter, Lieutenant, and now serves as Captain.

Although he was not necessarily looking to become a firefighter when it happened, he is thankful he had his brother and father to go to for questions and advice. He credits them for his inspiration to serve in the fire service and said they were a great resource for him.

“We all know that the world’s problems are solved at the table at the firehouse,” Julian said. “The table in the morning at the start of a shift is one of the many things that I love about having this job. Family, events, sports, politics, the occasional hazing of each other, no topic is really out of bounds.

“Now think about family gatherings, getting to sit there and have a firehouse table talk with your dad and brother. The topics don’t change -- and neither does the hazing -- but you get to listen to what’s happening in the fire service on the northwest side of Oklahoma and occasionally the old retiree chimes in and tells you how it was back in his day.”

Julian also considers his crew that he works with day in and day out part of his family.

“Those guys are extended family,” he said. “Names and faces have changed over the years, but they are all still and will always be like brothers. Standing side by side with them every third day and watching the hard work that they put in for the citizens of Collinsville is the greatest feeling of pride.”

Never having the opportunity to sit and talk to his grandfather and great grandfather about their time in the fire department is something he hates.

But one thing that he always has admired about Alva FD was the history that they have saved, be it photos or run logs. Just getting to see those men in photos or their names on reports that date back to the 1920s is really amazing. Then having a dad and now a brother who works for Alva continue on with that tradition is really special to him.

“The name on your helmet represents who you work for,” he said. “The name on your coat represents who raised you. Do them both justice.”

Bryan Miller: Living Out a Childhood Dream with Alva FD

THE MILLERS Fire Family History

• Fred Miller (1st Generation)

Alva FD (1926 to 1946)

• Marion F. Miller (2nd Gen.)

Alva FD (1948 to 1968)

• Frederick O. Miller (3rd Gen.)

Alva FD (1982 to 2002)

• Ronald Wayne Miller (3rd Gen.)

Offerle (Kan.) FD (1960 to 1996)

• Bryan Miller (4th Gen.)

Alva FD (2005 to now)

• Julian W. Miller (4th Gen.)

Collinsville FD (2008 to now)

Bryan Miller attended OSUOKC in 1999 and majored in Fire Protection Safety and Technologies.

He started his emergency services career in 2001 with the Alva Police Department as a patrolman. He left in 2003 to become a detective in Kansas.

After returning home to Alva in April of 2005, he started his forever career in the fire service with Alva FD as a Firefighter/EMT.

He has a rich family history in the fire service and has always wanted to follow that tradition.

On July 7, 2014, he was promoted to the rank of Assistant Fire Chief and was assigned the duties of being Alva’s first Fire Marshal. On August 17, 2020, he was appointed and sworn in as the new Fire Chief.

Bryan’s favorite story in relation to his firefighting career is when not too many years ago, his 2nd grade teacher showed up to his office. She brought with her a letter Bryan wrote to himself in an 80’s time capsule they buried, asking where he wanted to be in 30 years.

His answer? He wanted to be a firefighter; it truly was his childhood dream to carry out his family’s tradition. Bryan credits this dream to his father, Frederick Miller.

He said there was never a time he cannot remember not wanting to be a fireman, just like his dad. He has been and always will be his hero.

There are no words to describe the feeling that comes with being part of a multi-generational fire family and being able to carry on the family legacy. While there is a joy in carrying on those traditions, Bryan also recognizes the sadness. He has always wanted to meet his grandfather, Marion, who passed when he was a baby.

He recalls the countless stories and photos he has received and heard from those who fought fire with him, and recently just was given his fire helmet. Bryan’s greatest hope is that he can be half the man, firefighter, and leader his grandfather was. While he has a deep appreciation for being able to share with his father and brother, there is a piece that will always feel missing never getting to know his grandfather’s stories firsthand.

Brothers Bryan and Julian Miller

Matt Staiger: Glad to Have Family by His Side at Kellyville FD

Matt Staiger currently serves as the Kellyville Fire Chief. He was hired on the Kellyville Volunteer Fire Department in May of 2000.

In his 23 years, he worked up the ranks from firefighter, to Lieutenant, to Captain, to Assistant Chief, and now serves as Fire Chief.

Matt always dreamed of being a firefighter, and was thrilled when the opportunity arose in his hometown.

THE STAIGERS Fire Family History

• Matt Staiger (1st Generation) Kellyville FD (2000 to now)

• Gage Staiger (2nd Gen.)

Kellyville FD (2012 to now)

• Mikayla Staiger (2nd Gen.) Kellyville FD (2015 to now)

• Susan Pace (Gage’s fiancé)

Kellyville FD (2018 to now)

• Sheri Staiger (Matt’s wife) Kellyville FD (2022 to now)

And Matt is extremely proud that his children have chosen to follow in his footsteps. He said being able to see their achievements in the field are priceless.

Both Matt’s son and daughter, Gage Staiger, and Mikayla Staiger, joined the department at the age of 17. Gage got on in 2012 and has served 11 years, and Mikayla got on in 2015 and has been on 8 years.

Gage currently serves as a Captain, and

Mikayla serves as Lieutenant/EMT & Training Officer.

After seeing all the fun they were having, Gage’s fiancé Susan Pace decided she wanted to be a firefighter, and she has served on the department since October of 2018.

Within the last year, Matt’s wife Sheri has also decided to become a firefighter to help on calls when needed; she also does the department’s secretarial work.

“I am extremely proud to have my family by my side, and wouldn’t have it any other way,” he said.

Matt says he is incredibly honored to have seen how Kellyville FD has grown, and he has a great crew by his side.

His most memorable calls are the ones with his children, specifically watching his daughter save a young life, and watching his son be a leader on house fire calls.

Clayton Davison: From Guthrie HS to Guthrie FD

Guthrie Firefighter and Paramedic Clayton Davison played football and baseball at Guthrie High, and the fields were directly across the street from Guthrie FD.

“When my father was on duty, not only was he able to come watch these events, multiple other on-duty guys would spectate also, and it truly further emphasized the feeling of having an extended family.”

Clayton followed his father Rodney Davison and grandfather Bill Weinand into service at Guthrie FD.

And he considers himself fortunate to have grown up in the fire service.

“I was surrounded by guys that not only served their community, but served to be the best dads, friends and mentors they could possibly be to the people and families that surrounded them,” Clayton said. “

“The gratitude and selflessness these guys showed truly inspired me to not only start a career in the fire service, but to

THE DAVISONS Fire Family History

• Bill Weinand (1st Generation) Guthrie FD (1969 to 1994)

• Rodney Davison (2nd Gen.) Guthrie FD (1985 to 2013)

• Clayton Davison (3rd Gen.) Guthrie FD (2019 to now)

begin my career at Guthrie Fire.

“Being a part of a multi-generational firefighter family makes me extremely proud. Being able to walk the halls of past family members and having the opportunity to serve a community that has done so much for me and my family is very humbling and makes me very appreciative for the guys that serve next to me every day.”

Clayton’s father Rodney served 28 years at Guthrie FD, retiring in 2013. He passed away three years later.

“The bond of firefighters is truly unmatched and in 2016,

following the passing of my father, that was my true first experience witnessing that bond,” Clayton said.

“Numerous departments and countless firefighters from actively serving to retired were in attendance for his funeral, and that experience put in to context how big the family of Oklahoma Firefighters truly is.

“And I hope to pass on the work ethic that was instilled into me into future generations of firefighters.”

Gage Staiger, Susan Pace and Mikayla Staiger

Matt Staiger as Fire Chief and with wife Sheri

Clayton Davison

Rodney Davison Bill Weinand

Jacob Stangl: OSFA Public Education Committee Report

The Public Education Committee remains committed to primarily focusing on reducing fire injuries and deaths within our state.

But as we know all too well, these types of incidents are a small portion of the emergency calls our firefighters run on.

Our annual summit has focused on a number of other topics over the years to try and reduce all preventable injuries and

deaths.

One topic in particular has become increasingly relevant in the summer months.

It seems not more than a few days go by without hearing a news story about a drowning in our state. Sadly, Oklahoma ranks in the top 10 in drowning per capita.

According to the CDC, Oklahoma’s rate of 1.75 deaths per 100,00 ranks 8/50.

It may surprise some to know that drowning is the #1 cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of death for children ages 5-14 (CDC).

As we think about the future of the fire

Keith Bryant: Oklahoma State Fire Marshal Report

I was recently asked by Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association Past President Chief James Heap to take part in a work group to identify a minimum standard that would qualify a person for the position of Fire Chief in the State of Oklahoma.

I have also had discussions with the officers of the Fire Marshals Association of Oklahoma about establishing such a standard to qualify someone to serve as a Fire Marshal in the state. I believe that both initiatives are worthwhile and necessary.

But it also asks the bigger questions of is it time to adopt consistent standards for all firefighters in Oklahoma and should all firefighters be required to be certified to these standards.

For many years, nationally recognized standards for fire service certification have existed. I believe that most fire departments in the state use these standards at a minimum as a template for training and certification with many departments formally adopting them.

Obviously, the training entities in the state such as OSU Fire Service Training and the Technology Centers adopt these standards which are accredited by either IFSAC or Pro Board.

However, we still have a gap in firefighter training and certification in that not all departments in Oklahoma adopt and adhere to the same standards, and some follow no standards at all.

Too many times when firefighters are injured or killed in Oklahoma, it is discovered that it was the result of little or no formal training, as well as deviance from recognized practices and procedures.

It is unacceptable that we allow people to participate in this hazardous work without a minimum level of standardized training and certification. Many states in the U.S. have not only adopted required minimum standards for all firefighters in the state but have also put them into law.

Is it time for the Fire Service in Oklahoma to move in this direction? I certainly believe it is time for all Oklahoma Fire Service Organizations in Oklahoma to come together and start the discussion.

service and strategize how to reduce overall injuries and deaths in our state, we hope to see a mindset shift to not only discuss fire safety, but to include all the risks that are most likely to kill and injure those in our communities.

Drowning education and prevention is just one of many ways we can adapt as the fire service to better serve our communities. We look forward to discussing this within the committee and brainstorming ways to reduce these tragedies in our great state.

Craig Hannan: Fire Protection Publications Director

I want to thank those Oklahoma firefighters who attended the IFSJLM Research Symposium in Tulsa on July 8.

I hope you found the Symposium to be valuable. There are a few things I want to share with you from the Symposium.

1. The National Firefighter Registry is now open to all firefighters in the United States. The goal of the Registry is to better understand the link between workplace exposures and cancer among firefighters. The only cost is your time. The information gained from the registry will save the lives of current and future firefighters. Search “National Firefighter Registry” for the link to register.

2. U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell discussed the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) for the American fire and emergency services.

This system will replace NFIRS. Dr. Moore-Merrell stressed that NERIS will be a phased rollout and asked for patience as the system is released. Details on the system and timelines can be found on the USFA webpage.

3. “Science to the Station” was presented by Dr. Sara A. Jahnke. Dr. Jahnke is the Director and Senior Scientist for the Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research. Science to the Station is a free email subscription that shares the latest scientific findings that have practical implications and help for the fire and emergency services. I encourage you to sign up for the updates to keep you and your department informed with the latest best practices. The Research Symposium is a free event that brings to best and brightest in fire service research to Oklahoma. I hope will take advantage of this opportunity.

The 2024 IFSJLM Research Symposium will be on July 13, 2024. I hope to see you there.

Until next time, be safe, be well, be well trained.

Attendees at RS 23, including new OSFA 3VP Tom Marcum (in white).

OKC FD Ret.

Edmond FD

Perkins FD

Caroline Reed: OSU FST Director

Here at Fire Service Training, we have been blessed to receive several new grants that assist us in training the state.

The first award was an AFG grant to build a new burn building. This building will provide many opportunities for successful training of our Oklahoma firefighters.

We are currently working on building an extractor trailer that will assist fire departments that need their gear washed at their location. We have several proposals out currently to help offset the lack of training dollars that we receive from the state.

Currently we are only receiving $1.1 million to train the state. This is the same funding we received in 2000. We are hopeful that we will receive more support from both the state and federal agencies with our pursuit of grant dollars and new funding mechanisms.

In another area, we are taking some time to update our programs and we are currently seeking several new levels for IFSAC and Pro-Board.

We are very excited to share that we are close to completing the following levels: Rope Rescue, Extrication, Officer III, Industrial Fire Brigade Leader and updating Haz Mat Awareness, Haz Mat Ops, and Haz Mat Technician.

We are looking for volunteer fire departments to host the delivery of Firefighter II courses to finish the current SAFER grant.

The course will need to be completed by the end of November 2023. If you would like to host one, please contact Justin Spence at OSU Fire Service Training and schedule before the grant runs out.

Stay safe and be sure to look at our web site OSUFST.ORG for the latest course list.

Kelly Ransdell: NFPA Report

As we all strive to keep up with emerging issues, here are a few things to keep you up to date.

materials in their public outreach efforts.

Resources for electric vehicle owners:

• Understanding Electric Vehicles tip sheet

Electric vehicles

Electric vehicles and motorized micromobility devices (e-bikes and e-scooters) are more popular than ever, but the potential for fire-related hazards associated with the lithium-ion batteries that power these forms of transport is real and often underestimated.

According to a recent report by ERM, a global pure-play sustainability consultancy group, automakers and battery manufacturers worldwide will spend more than $626 billion through 2030 to develop new electric cars, passenger trucks, freight trucks, and buses.

The micromobility market is also expected to grow from $40 billion today to $215 billion by 2030, as stated by Allied Marketing Research.

The growth in both production and use of electric cars, e-bikes, and e-scooters makes the work of educating people about safe practices more important now than ever before.

NFPA and ESFI are providing free safety information and resources for residents to help reduce the risk of injury and damage to property when storing and charging lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes and e-scooters, and electric vehicles.

Firefighters and other first responders are encouraged to use these

• Electric Vehicles: Charging Options and Safety tip sheet

Resources for e-bike and e-scooter owners:

• E-Bike and E-Scooter tip sheet

• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety tip sheet

• Safety with E-Bikes and E-Scooters webpage

NFPA also provides important information, materials, and trainings for firefighters and first responders to learn how to safely deal with emergency situations involving alternative fuel passenger vehicles, trucks, buses, and commercial fleet vehicles.

Resources for first responders:

• Training, response guides, report, and videos for first responders and emergency personnel related to fires involving alternative fuel vehicles (AFV)

• Electric and hybrid vehicle quick reference card

Additional e-bike and e-scooter resources for first responders:

• NFPA Podcast: E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety

• NFPA Journal article, Fall 2022 issue: Full Throttle

In 2020, NFPA introduced Faces of Fire/Electrical, a video awareness campaign focused on electrical hazards and created in collaboration with the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

The series reminds everyone about the importance of taking action – at home and in the workplace – to help stop electrical incidents from happening.

The videos and related resources such as fact sheets, tip sheets, and reports can be found at nfpa. org/facesoffire.

For more tips and resources related to electrical fire safety, visit the NFPA electrical safety webpage.

OFCA Ex Officio

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 have grown up in.

Building a Culture of Safety

This month again we will focus on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s firefighters’ life safety initiatives.

The 7th initiative seeks to “Create a national research agenda and data collection system that relates to the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives.”

The 8th initiative seeks to “Utilize available technology wherever it can produce higher levels of health and safety.”

Research Agenda: An effort to identify particular areas in which research is needed to contribute to the mission of supporting the Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives of the Everyone Goes Home Program (NFFF).

The result is intended to assist the many different organizations and individuals that have a role in conducting, supporting, and encouraging research projects to focus their efforts and resources on the areas that have been identified as important and significant by a group that represents the diverse interests and priorities of the fire service -- all with the overarching goal of eliminating preventable firefighter line-of-duty-injuries and fatalities.

Communication with all fire departments in clear and concise ways is critical to improving the safety of firefighters. Acknowledging the need for research and data was an important step for the fire service to take in 2004. Now it is critical that the identified research be conducted, and the results be transferred and implemented at the local levels. This is the only way that research will impact the life safety of firefighters and the communities they serve.

The research indicates: The majority of fire departments in the country also require firefighters to be trained on five of the six types of recommendations addressed in this evaluation: using PPE (88.9%), fighting structure fires (82.8%), driving safety (77.7%), using radio communication devices (76.2%), using the Incident Command System (69.9%), and maintaining SCBA (60.3%). However, only 7% of the fire departments have a required physical fitness training program, and most (60.9 %) fire departments do not require firefighters to be screened for CVD risk factors and CVD.

Most fire departments (84.0%) ensure that firefighters responsible for driving emergency vehicles receive driver training before being allowed to operate the vehicles. However, in focus group discussions, frontline firefighters said they need to be trained in the class of the vehicle and that home responders need additional training. Most fire departments (84.2%) require their firefighters to wear seat belts while in emergency vehicles, although frontline firefighters say many still are not using them.

Research is driven by accurate and timely data, good input good output!

Technology: A major study conducted in 2006 by the United States Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association focused on the needs of U.S. fire departments. Where technology is concerned, the fire service is certainly gaining ground but lags in important indicators. For instance, 24% of fire departments lack internet access, which means they lack access to information about emerging technology and actual web-based technologies.

An estimated 60% of fire departments do not have enough self-contained breathing apparatus to equip all firefighters on a shift. Three-fifths (60%) of fire departments have at least some SCBA units that are at least 10 years old.

An estimated half (48%) of fire departments do not have enough personal alert system (PASS) devices to equip all their firefighters. These are basics, second nature to many of us, and yet we forget that tens of thousands of firefighters are responding to everyday dangerously lacking basic levels of safety (USFA, Four Years Later—A Second Needs Assessment of the U.S. Fire Service, 2006).

Regarding new and emerging technology, the USFA/NFPA study found the following:

A majority (55%) of fire departments now own thermal imaging cameras, and another one-fourth have plans to acquire them. A previous survey (2001) reported that 24% of departments had such cameras, and the majority of those without them had no plans to acquire one.

Only one department in 17 had mobile data terminals (6% of departments, up 4% from 2001), though the majority of fire departments protecting at least 100,000 population have them. Most departments without mobile data terminals (69% overall) still have no plans to acquire them.

Only one department in 31 has advanced personnel location equipment, though one-fourth of the fire departments protecting communities of at least 500,000 population have them.

Only one department in 18 has the equipment to collect chemical

Drummond FD

or biological samples for remote analysis, though most of the fire departments protecting communities of at least 100,000 population have such equipment.

A Fire Stop Your on Jan. 10, 2023, found these facts to still exist, despite our vast technological advances:

During a fire today, you have the least amount of time to safely exit your burning home than at any time in history.

Your chance of dying in a fire today is higher than 40 years ago. Fire deaths, injuries, and displacement disproportionately affect lower-income communities and people of color.

Safe and affordable housing should not be mutually exclusive. A compounding problem in cities across America is that those who survive are displaced long-term or become homeless due to a lack of personal or local resources.

A total of 99 million people -- or a third of the U.S. population -now live in the Wildland Urban Interface environment, yet most have no idea what WUI is or the dangers it poses.

Fire departments across the United States, both career and volunteer, are experiencing dramatic personnel shortages. This situation is a national problem and without intervention will continue to worsen, affecting the ability to meet emergency call volume demand in many areas.

Technology, including micromobility products powered by lithium-ion batteries, is providing a new wave of fire causes.

Automatic fire suppression systems like sprinklers save lives, yet resistance to these devices remains.

There are several tools to guide the process. One such tool is the Vulnerability Assessment Program (VAP) administered by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. This free assessment is available to all fire departments—volunteer, career, industrial, fire/EMS, and combination services.

Until next time, remember to look out for one another, in the smoke and at the station. Everyone Goes Home!

Sources

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation leads an “Everyone Goes Home” Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives” plan on their web page www. everyonegoeshome.com/16-initiatives that lists 16 attitude initiatives, we as the fire service should strive to implement in our departments.

The National Safety Culture Change Initiative (NSCCI) was developed to advocate for the need for culture change for health and safety within the fire service. This effort is led by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). www.ffsafetyculture.org/

www.firehero.org/2023/01/09/fire-stop-tour-january-10-12-2023/

HELP IS AVAILABLE If You Need Immediate Support in Oklahoma

• Warriors Rest Foundation, Brett Key, 405-252-7489

PTG is proud to be a sponsor of the 2023 OSFA Annual Convention.

We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts to all first responders who have spent countless hours selflessly serving our communities during this unprecedented time.

• First Responders Against Suicide, the Facebook page is also available to message, they are first responders

in

Oklahoma

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255 (or go to website for chat)

• National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

• Crisis Text Line, text HOME to 741741

• OSFA office, 405-424-1452 (will respond within 48 hours)

• Corey Conrady, 580-540-0970 (call or text anytime)

• Oklahoma Fire Service Chaplains, Gary Lillie, Hawley FD, 580-541-5980 (the Facebook page has info for other area contacts)

By Greg Lindsay OKC Fire Department Greg

Lindsay: Firefighter Near-Miss Report

Technology Has a Cost

We know that fire scenes are dynamic. Every time we open a trade journal or read a nearmiss report, something new is identified in a way we had not seen before.

Sometimes technology is the driving force for this development. The latest innovations that seem to provide the most concern for firefighters are the advancements in electric power and how we address these innovations.

The featured report involves an electric vehicle (EV). EVs are becoming more available, and we see new concerns when igniting. The latest technology will always bring innovations in our daily life but can also provide unique challenges. This report details how a vehicle fire in a garage became much more than expected.

Electric Vehicle in Garage Causes Explosion

(Published: 4/17/2023, http://firefighternearmiss.com/Reports?id=16048

Report Number: 23-14382

EVENT NARRATIVE

Initial size-up: Two-story residential with nothing showing, investigating. Post 360, we had a lookout basement and confirmed smoke in the building. I switched to an offensive strategy through the front door utilizing a preconnect.

Event Description: An atmospheric ignition occurred while fighting a plugged-in electric/hybrid vehicle fire inside a closed garage. The result of said atmospheric ignition was the garage door blew off its tracks into the yard, almost injuring a safety officer. Additionally, at the time of the atmospheric ignition, three firefighters were inside the garage, and one firefighter was standing at the garage doorway to the house. A burst of fire blew back the firefighter in the door several feet. All firefighters were uninjured in this event.

Consider the following topics for discussion:

• How often do you interact with an electric or hybrid electric vehicle?

• Discuss what you know about EVs and how controlling a fire in one differs from a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle.

• What is off-gassing? Are you familiar with this hazard as it applies to a vehicle fire?

• What are the ways an EV can be compromised and ignited?

LESSONS LEARNED

Describe the lessons learned at this event. What recommenda-

tions do you have to prevent a similar occurrence? Confirm with the responsible party ensuring life safety needs were met. Ensure you ventilate a charged environment when possible. Utilize a TIC to determine the environment and heat sources. PPE protects you even as much from the unexpected as from the expected.

List any other info that was important for situational awareness. Battery off-gassing and how to manage such in a dynamic firefighting environment is a new tactic for our department. We may have had a safer outcome if we had understood this situation better and possibly considered venting the area before entering and attacking.

Electric vehicles have an excellent safety record, but like any vehicle, there are ways the system can become compromised and catch fire.

NFPA Today published an excellent blog post identifying several ways a battery system can be damaged.

• Thermal Abuse - An outside fire that heats the battery compartment.

• Electrical Abuse - Such as overcharging.

• Mechanical Abuse – An example could be caused by a vehicle accident.

• Internal faults - Could be from low-quality components or errors in manufacturing.

• Environmental impacts - Like abrupt changes in the weather. -- O’Connor, 2021

Though other less common causes can initiate an event, these are the most common.

Besides being burned by an arc or shocked by the electrical charge, we must be very cautious attacking a fire in a battery system. EV fires have several aspects we need to observe.

The first is that when the battery compartment becomes compromised, the electrical charge in each battery is still available. Any short circuit will make the situation worse. The term used most for this hazard is “thermal runaway.”

When a vehicle experiences thermal runaway, batteries heat up and rupture, sometimes violently, releasing the flammable electrolyte in the batteries. This begins the chain reaction that spreads to other battery cells. Because the batteries are contained, heat builds up fast, releasing more energy. The battery cells are placed close to each other, and the heat will transfer to the next cell, causing it to fail. As the heat moves from cell to cell, it spreads fast.

As the reaction doubles, the batteries begin to off-gas from the heat. “The gasses released from batteries are highly flammable and toxic. The type of gas released depends on the battery chemistry

The first photo at right shows a device that punctures the battery compartment under the vehicle. Water is then pumped through this appliance and floods the compartment.

The next photo shows a blanket that covers the vehicle to smother the fire.

The ABC affiliate in Phoenix, AZ, produced a news report on new ways firefighters are extinguishing EV fires. (Video available on Youtube under ABC15 EV fires)

The last photo shows a roll-off container used to completely contain the vehicle. The vehicle is placed in the container and covered with sand or filled with water.

involved but typically includes gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, methane, ethane, and other hydrocarbons. If the gas is able to reach its lower explosive limit before finding an ignition source, then there is the potential for an explosion” (O’Connor, 2021).

Venting the space if the vehicle is inside a garage is vital to this type of fire attack. A final consideration is the power left in the battery pack. “Stranded energy is the term used for when a battery has no safe way of discharging its stored energy” (O’Connor, 2021).

After a fire, it can be challenging to determine the extent of energy left in the batteries and what that can do. It frequently causes reignition hours or days later. Some impound lots refuse to accept EVs that have been involved in a fire due to this reason.

Controlling a vehicle fire of this type requires large volumes of water to complete extinguishment. For isolated locations, protecting exposed areas and allowing the fire to burn itself out may be neces-

sary. Being mindful that when the temperature rises, the batteries can explode violently. Additional caution is essential!

Compared to a standard vehicle fire, EV fires have hazards we are not accustomed to. Learning more about these types of incidents can also extend to managing the home battery backup fires, hoverboard fires, and other types of battery-powered device fires we encounter. Lithium-ion batteries are useful tools in the advancement of technology, but we must manage the incidents effectively.

Sharing how these incidents are managed is an excellent way to advance how firefighting can manage technology.

Works Cited

[ABC15 Arizona]. (2023, May 23). Why AZ fire department plans to bury burning electric vehicles [Video]. Youtube.com.

O’Connor, B. (2021, December 3). Battery Energy Storage Hazards and Failure Modes. NFPA TODAY. Retrieved July 15, 2023, from https://www. nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Publications-and-media/

n MEETING (April 21, 2023)

Gregory Nettleton/Altus – Application For Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 1, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Lay to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”,to “Service”, effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Angelo R. Rivers II/McAlester – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective March 18, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jerimy Meek/Midwest City – Application

For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective April 1, 2023: Motion was made by Davidson seconded by Lopez to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jefferson Bowman/Muskogee – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective December 12, 2021: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Lopez to deny the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Lewis A. Brock/Muskogee – Application

For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective April 1, 2023: Motion was made by Davidson seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

David Branscum/Pona City – Application

For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective April 1, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jeffery A. Poole/Elk City – Application

For “Disability Not In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 15, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Bennet to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Davidson, Lay, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brent Armer/Edmond – Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Davidson and seconded by Lay to approve the request of Armer to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty” Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Lay, Baggett, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Glenn Ballinger/Oklahoma City –Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Motion was made by Bennett seconded by Davidson to approve the request of Ballinger to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Lay, Baggett, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jeffrey Wagnon/Tulsa – Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Lay seconded by Bennett Davidson to approve the request Ballinger to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Lay, Baggett, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Darren Hickson/Tulsa – Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Davidson seconded by Lay to approve the request of Hickson to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Lopez, Bryant, Cramer, Lay, Baggett, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

n MEETING (May 19, 2023)

Matthew K. Payne/Broken Arrow –Application For Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Baggett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

William K. Tummel/Broken Arrow –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Lay and seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

John M. Clift/Chickasha – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

6601 Broadway Ext., OKC, OK 73116 405-522-4600 • 1-800-525-7461 405-522-4643 fax www.okfirepen.state.ok.us

Nathan D. Plagg/El Reno – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective April 29, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 29, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Timothy G. Good/Gage – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective April 22, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Chase W. Morgan/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective May 2, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 2, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Joseph Wheeler/Lawton – Application

For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Bennet to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Chase Musgrave/Noble – Application

For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective May 11, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Lay to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” to “Disability Not in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brian K. Lewis/Norman – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Carri L. Baldwin/Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability in The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Provence seconded by Bennet to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Clellen G. Cody/Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Bennett seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Russell H. Morland/Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Bennett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Matt D. Drummond/Skiatook – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 11, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Lay to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective April 11, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Mark E. Milstead/Tulsa – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 1, 2023: Motion was made by Lay seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jimmy D. South Jr./Woodford – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May 16, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer seconded by Baggett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 16, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Baggett, Cramer, Lay, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jeff Riggs/Tulsa – Request To Modify Pension From Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Baggett to deny the request of Riggs to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty” Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Fullingim, Cramer, Lay, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

n MEETING (June 16, 2023)

Joseph D. McBrayer/Bixby – Application For Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett and seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Baggett, Cramer, Duncan, Bryant, Lopez, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Joe L. Chisum/Collinsville – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Provence and seconded by Baggett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Bryant, Lopez, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Damon Bybee/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty”

Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023.

Chase Rankin Executive Director

Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Bryant, Lopez, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brett S. Ford/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Bryant, Lopez, Laws, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Robert Kizarr/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Bryant, Lopez, Laws and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Mike A. McDaniel/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Bryant, Laws, Lopez and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Steven M. Monostori/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Lopez, Bryant, Laws, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

James Schneider/Lawton – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” , effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Lopez, Bryant, Laws, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Homer P. Harvey Jr./Norman – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Cramer seconded by Provence to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective May 1, 2023. Ayes: , Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Lopez, Bryant, Laws, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Chad A. Ake/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Nimmo, Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Law, Lopez, Bryant and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Harold L. Ake/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023:

Motion made by Cramer seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Johnathan L. Akright/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett seconded by Provence to approve Application for “Disability in Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Laws, Bryant, Lopez and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Christopher Black /Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Provence seconded by Cramer to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan Baggett, Cramer, Laws, Bryant, Lopez, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

John M. Calhoon/Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Marcus Dorsey/Oklahoma City –Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Bennett seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty” effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Baggett, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

David Fields/Oklahoma City- Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett and seconded by Provence to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Julian Gaona III/Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Christopher Hoffman/Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Provence and seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Stephen D. Lewis/Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Cramer and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Curtis R. Maloy /Oklahoma City -Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for “Disability in \Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brennen A. McKellar/Oklahoma City -Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Bennett and seconded by Baggett to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jeral A. Plumlee/Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Cramer and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Michael L. Ralls/Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Baggett to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Richard Reber/Oklahoma City- Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Mark E. Richardson /Oklahoma CityApplication For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Baggett and seconded by Provence to approve Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Billy R. Wilson/Oklahoma City- Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion made by Cramer and seconded by Bennett to approve Application for

“Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Jason Woods/Oklahoma City- Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Provence and seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Charles D. Golden/Tulsa - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was by Provence and seconded by Bennett to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Chase Tyler/Tulsa - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective June 1, 2023: Motion was made by Baggett and seconded by Cramer to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Brant Bonham/Fairview- Application For “Disability Not In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective May, 2023: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Baggett to approve the Application for “Disability Not in the Line of Duty”, effective June 1, 2023. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Bryant, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Tommy Thomson/Oklahoma City –Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Bennett and seconded by Baggett to approve the request of Thomson to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty.” Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: Bryant. Motion carried.

Robert K. Stern/Tulsa – Request Ot Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Baggett and seconded by Cramer to DENY the request of Stern to modify his pension from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Duncan, Cramer, Laws, Lopez, Baggett, and Green. Nayes: Bryant. Motion carried.

Request To Declare Death In The Line Of Duty/Brian Jantzen/Ringwood – Surviving Spouse Sarah Jantzen: Motion was made by Baggett and seconded by Cramer to modify the request of “Death in the Line of Duty” to “Death Not in Line of Duty” until the Death Certificate is received. Ayes: Bennett, Provence, Cramer, Lay, Laws, Baggett, Green, Lopez, Duncan. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

n CONSENT AGENDA (May 19, 2023)

CHECKS TERMINATED IN APRIL 2023 (Deceased):

Bartlesville Wathena M. Wanner

Bartlesville Joseph F. Veley

Blackwell Roberta M. McKinnis

Covington Beverley A. Bigby

Enid Kriemhilde Sowle

Jet Kelly J. Yoder

Maysville Eva S. Hough

Muskogee Deborah Bassett

OKC Maggie L. Lane

Pawhuska Gregory L. Strahm

Picher Ernest A. Freeman

Purcell Claudine Herrell

Sallisaw Mary C. Walkingstick

Spiro Mary E. Harper

Sulphur Wanda J. Tingle

Talihina Okle B. James

Temple Frank K. Tucker

Tulsa Ed W. Allphin

Tulsa Delberta Jennings

Tulsa Barbara Llewellyn

Tulsa Tommie L. Morris

Wetumka Bernice Neese

Wynnewood Rogers H. Gardner

Yukon Joann A. Carpenter

APPLICATION FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE PENSION SYSTEM:

Elk City Kian Elledge

Elk City Brody Rainey

El Reno Austin Gorbet

Guthrie Mason Davis

Guthrie Jake Logan

Guthrie Jacob Zserdin

Harrah Patrick G. Nessel

Holdenville Tye D. Rambo

Lindsay Britton J. Carpenter

Lindsay Jimmy D. Gordan

Mustang Brandon Bowen Nichols Hills Daniel Morrison

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE:

04/01/2023 Bennington Debra Wood, Widow Of Robin D. Wood Deceased 03/30/2023

02/16/2020

Marietta Crissy Edwards, Widow Of Debra A. Edwards Deceased 02/16/2020

$5,000.00 DEATH BENEFIT:

Bartlesville Stumpff Funeral Home On Behalf Of Bobby L. Ford

Barltesville Stumpff Funeral Home On Behalf Of John R. McGee

Billings Vicki Waggoner, Widow Of Wilfred Waggoner

Bridgecreek Tribute Memorial Care Southwest On Behalf Of Paul Miller

Comanche Melinda J. Newton, Widow Of George E. Newton

Glencoe Joyce Choplin, Widow Of Jim Choplin

Hobart Ray & Martha’s Funeral On Behalf Of Jackie R. Maggard

Pawhuska Kendrick McCartney Johnson On Behalf Of Gregory Straham

Porum King-Sherwood Funeral Home On Behalf Of Connie Spradlin

Tulsa Gary Allphin, Child Of Ed W. Allphin

Tulsa Messinger Indian School On Behalf Of Peter C. Faulkenberry

Tulsa Jack’s Memory Chapel On Behalf Of Bobby J. Kendrick

Tulsa

Delores J. Lewis, Widow Of Kirk P. Lewis

Vici Carole S. Turner, Widow O Gary Turner

Wilburton Joanathan Cook, Child Of John Cook

Wilburton Joanna Cook, Child Of John Cook

Wilburton Jocelyn Cook, Child Of John Cook

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE FOR CONTINUATION:

05/01/2023

APPLICATION FOR DISABILITY IN THE LINE OF DUTY –MODIFY TO SERVICE PENSION:

APPLICATION FOR SERVICE PENSION:

APPLICATION FOR VESTED BENEFIT:

n CONSENT AGENDA (June 16, 2023)

CHECKS TERMINATED IN MAY 2023 (Deceased):

Alva Linda Whitely

Beaver Cornelia Ashlock

Bokoshe Carl Cosgrove

Drumright Peggy S. Eckert

Eufaula Patti J. Pipkins

Hailyville Ralph W. Weaver

Haskell Donald A. Laferry

Norman Anna Stephens

$5,000.00 DEATH BENEFIT:

Pauls Valley Ardis C. Flanagan

Thomas Ina V. Goss

Tulsa Glenda Crawford

Tulsa Donald R. Walker

Tuttle W.J. Morgan Jr.

Weatherford Lorene Saurer

Wilburton Billie F. Donoley

Bennington Debra Wood, Widow Of Robin D. Wood

Caddo Richard H. Shorton, Child Of Kenneth R. Whorton

Del City Bernice G. Harris, Widow Of Danny L. Harris

Enid Ladusau-Evans Funeral On Behalf Of Phillip E. Bennett

Haskell Trina L. Moore, Child Of Donald A. Laferry

Kingfisher Sanders Funeral Home On Behalf Of Glendon Benda

Mannford Mannford Funeral Home On Behalf Of Jimmie L. Cramer

Okarche Huber-Benson Funeral Home On Behalf Of Paul J. Biller

Ponca City Grace Memorial Chapel On Behalf Of Larry D. Brown

Purcell Wilson-Little Funeral Home On Behalf Of Billy H. Bacon

Tuttle John M. Ireland & Son Funeral On Behalf Of W.j. Morgan Jr.

Union City Huber-Reynolds Funeral On Behalf Of Harold W. Ratterman

APPLICATION FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE PENSION SYSTEM:

Altus Isaac Bates

Altus Kade Forster

Altus Thomas Saxon

Altus Robert Young

Anadarko Christian Aranda

Anadarko Rowdy Hoffman

Anadarko Kelby Jennings

Bixby Easton Meaux

Coalgate Brandon Mathews

Collinsville Hunter Claxton

Enid Joshua Pitts

Enid Damon Schaefer

Enid Austin White

Jenks John Boyd

Jenks Billy McCawley

Jenks Trey Smith

Monkey Island Gavin Stone

Moore Luke Field

Moore William French

Moore Justice Hansen

Moore Andrew Powell

Moore John Wingfield

Tuttle Jacob Davis

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE:

05/01/2023 Ringwood Sarah Jantzen, Widow Of Brian Jantzen Deceased 05/01/2023

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE FOR CONTINUATION:

06/01/2023 Anadarko Jayme Wilkerson, Widow Of Dennis Wilkerson

06/01/2020 Cheyenne Janice Howenstine, Widow Of Howenstine 06/01/2023 Copan Carolyn Anderson, Widow Of Dewayne Anderson

06/01/2023 Nichols Hills Darlene Belden, Widow Of Jimmy P. Belden

06/01/2023 OKC Dama Butler,Widow Of Ronald H. Butler

06/01/2023 OKC Beverly Nitzel, Widow Of Michael R. Nitzel

06/01/2023 S Coffeyville Diana Howard, Widow Of Eddie D. Howard

06/01/2023 S Coffeyville Alice Long, Widow Of Rickie L. Long

APPLICATION FOR DISABILITY IN THE LINE OF DUTY –MODIFY TO SERVICE PENSION:

APPLICATION FOR SERVICE

06/01/2023

Wynnewood Sadonas Gardner, Widow Of Rogers Gardner 06/01/2023 Zena Yvonne M. Thompson, Widow of Bret A. Thompson

APPLICATION FOR VESTED BENEFIT:

01/01/2022 Bokchito Melissa Goza

05/21/2022 Butler County Scott A. Weiss

06/04/2023 Commerce Joey D. Williams

10/23/2025 Skiatook Bryn S. Burgess

n CONSENT AGENDA (July 21, 2023)

CHECKS TERMINATED IN JUNE 2023 (Deceased):

Apache Carolyn Lair

Blackwell Tressa Webb

Broken Bow Audey R. Braddy

Carter Charlene Simpson

Commerce Ricky D. Williams

Del City Juanita Westfall

Edmond Jon K. Smith

Heavener Janet T. Tolbert

Konawa Mildred Knoury

Lawton Alma W. McKenzie

$5,000.00 DEATH BENEFIT:

Okarche Leo E. Meyer

OKC Velma L. Dale

OKC Beulah Ford

OKC Nettie J. Mitchell

OKC Samuel L. Musick

OKC Henry D. Smith

Sterling Thelma Henderson

Terral Leonard Langford

Tulsa Danny E. Jones

Tulsa Michael W. Malone

Wellston Chester E. Duncan

Anadarko Ferguson Funeral Home On Behalf Of Dennis W. Wilkerson

Brent Rural Carol A. Webb, Widow Of Stacey L. Webb

Cheyenne Janice Howenstine, Widow Of Cy Howenstine

Commerce Jimmy D. Williams, Death Recipient Of Ricky D. Williams

Coweta Thelma Greene, Widow Of James E. Greene

Haileyville Andrea Weaver, Child Of Ralph W. Weaver

Haileyville Stephanie Wagnon, Child Of Ralph W. Weaver

Luther Boydstone-Bailey Funeral On Behalf Of Eddie L. Steffens, Sr.

Mangum Greer Funeral Home On Behalf Of Richard Perry

Nichols Hills Darlene Belden, Widow Of Jimmy P. Belden

OKC Evans & Miller Funeral Home On Behalf Of Ronald H. Butler

OKC Christon R. Cummings, Child Of Samuel L. Muskick

OKC Beverly A. Nitzel, Widow Of Michael R. Nitzel

OKC Linda S. Mcmahon, Child Of Henry D. Smith

OKC Steven L. Smith, Child Of Henry D. Smith

Ringwood Lanman Funeral Home On Behalf Of Brian S. Jantzen

Sequoyah Lescher-Millsap Funeral On Behalf Of James E. Ackerman

S. Coffeyville David W. Barnes Funeral On Behalf Of Eddie D. Howard

Stilwell Lorie Trentham, Widow Of Ronald S. Trentham

Tulsa David Jones, Death Recipient Of Danny E. Jones

Wynnewood Sadona Sue Garner, Widow Of Rogers H. Gardner

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE FOR CONTINUATION:

APPLICATION FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE PENSION SYSTEM:

Ada Jacob Ausban

Ada Dayton Phillips

Miami John Mate

Muskogee Logan Jones

Muskogee Alex Puckett

Muskogee Jacob Woodard

Noble Austin Long

Oklahoma City Diego Alcala

Oklahoma City Tyler Alderman

Oklahoma City Karsten Allen

Oklahoma City Travis Boyd

Oklahoma City Bryson Bozarth

Oklahoma City Zackery Brashier

Oklahoma City Lunnden Carlson

Oklahoma City Logan Clark

Oklahoma City Dalton Daniel

Oklahoma City Megan Dufy

Oklahoma City Rendon Ferrell

Oklahoma City Jacob Ford

Oklahoma City Alan Fraysur

Oklahoma City Deztinee Gooden

APPLICATION FOR VESTED BENEFIT:

Oklahoma City Mitchell James

Oklahoma City Rodney Molette

Oklahoma City Austin Morris

Oklahoma City Matthew Myrick

Oklahoma City Dejuan Naff

Oklahoma City Joseph Newton

Oklahoma City Gabrielle Ortiz

Oklahoma City Tyler Painter

Oklahoma City Gunnar Pierce

Oklahoma City Samuel Rainwater

Oklahoma City Kaid Ross

Oklahoma City Jacob Seaton

Oklahoma City Matthew Stover

Oklahoma City Justin Tate

Oklahoma City Bradee Thompson

Oklahoma City Braden Travis

Oklahoma City Bailey Vaughn

Oklahoma City William Webber

Pauls Valley James T. Jolly

Seminole Jonathan Blasi

Lindsay Linda F. Scruggs, Widow Of Kenneth Scruggs

07/01/2023 Locust Grove Carol Holman, Widow Of John D. Holman

07/01/2023 Luther Patricia A. Steffens, Widow Eddie L. Steffens Sr.

07/01/2023 Mangum Teresa L. Perry, Widow Of Richard Perry

07/01/2023 Mulhall Nancy K. Fillmore, Widow Of Glen D. Fillmore

07/01/2023 Newcastle Becky Callaway, Widow Of Ralph Callaway

07/01/2023 OKC Karen Adams, Widow Of Kenneth D. Adams

07/01/2023 Stillwater Mary L. Huff, Widow Of John R. Huff

07/01/2023 Stilwell Lorie Trentham Widow Of Ronnie Trentham

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE:

APPLICATION FOR DISABILITY IN THE LINE OF DUTY –MODIFY TO SERVICE PENSION:

REFUND OF CONTRIBUTIONS: Hired Terminated

MIAMI FIRE DEPARTMENT

County: Ottawa

Fire Chief: Chris Chenoweth

MFD formed: 1905

Joined OSFA: 1913

ISO rating: 3

Population: 13,500 (approx)

Square miles served: 80 (approx)

Calls per year: 3000 Fire & EMS (avg)

Personnel: 27

Stations: 2

Engines: 3

Ladders: 1

Brushpumpers: 1

Tankers: 1

Antique Rigs: 1

In 1949, the Miami Fire Department purchased the Seagrave pumper pictured above.

Engine 6 remained in service as a reserve until the 1990s.

A fundraising effort is currently underway in order to finance the restoration of the rig so that it may be used for parades and other public events.

FIRE

BY GREG ROBERTS Ret. Norman FD

(Steve Loftin photo, 1988)

E-3 2020 Freightliner/Pierce 1250 pump/1000 tank

L-11 2010 Pierce 1500 pump/500 tank/75’ ladder

E-4 2003 Pierce 1500 pump/750 tank

E-12 1989 Pierce 1250 pump/500 tank

T-8 2021 Freightliner/Pierce 1000 pump/2000 tank

Miami FD 1912 Chief Chenoweth

2023 OSFA STATE FIRE SCHOOL

190 attendees representing 85 FDs

May 4-6 in Tulsa, Owasso & Broken Arrow

Oklahoma Firefighter

OKC FD

Richard Kelley: OFCA President’s Report

Greetings Brothers and Sisters!

This summer has been really crazy with lots of rain and storms during July, which is usually very dry in Oklahoma.

Be safe and stay hydrated during the upcoming hot months as you protect the customers in your community.

I hope everyone had a great time at the OSFA Convention, as I was unable to attend due to a conflict in my schedule.

I hear it was a great convention with lots of discussions and great activities. Congratulations to Tom Marcum on his election to OSFA 3rd Vice-President.

As we move toward the beginning of the school year and subsequently the fall season, it is time to continue our focus on Community Risk Reduction (CRR) activities.

Unfortunately, every year Oklahoma is in the top 10 for fire fatalities per capita and this is something we all have to work together to reduce or eliminate.

2023-24

Executive Board

OFCA PRESIDENT

Richard Kelley richard.kelley@okc.gov

1ST VICE PRESIDENT Craig Carruth ccarruth@cityofmustang.org

2ND VICE PRESIDENT Michael Baker mbaker@cityoftulsa.org

3RD VICE PRESIDENT Terry Essary terry.essary@stillwater.org

OFCA PAST PRESIDENT James Heap jrheap@pldi.net

OFCA DIRECTOR

Kent Lagaly klagaly901@gmail.com

Although we are many months away, it is never too early to prepare for the upcoming Chiefs Winter Workshop in January 2024.

I hope everyone makes plans to attend as it is a great time to learn, grow and network with other fire department leaders. Chief Michael Baker, TFD, will do an outstanding job and I am excited to see his vision in building and preparing for this event coming to fruition.

Speaking of preparations, in April 2024, I will have the honor to host the Annual Chiefs Conference in Oklahoma City. The dates are April 10-12 at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown OKC. Plan to attend both events and build your network while learning with our incredible fire service family.

Remember you are a fire service leader so never underestimate your level of influence and always strive to make a positive difference in the lives of the people around you.

Until next time, strive for excellence because Leaders are not born, they are made.

Craig Carruth: OFCA 1st Vice President’s Report

Greetings Everyone! I hope everyone is doing well!

By the time you are reading this, summer will be wrapping up soon and we will be transitioning into the fall season.

This summer has been one of the wettest in memory and has provided much-needed rain to the majority of our state, which is a blessing.

Unfortunately, this amount of rain also provided for a substantial growth in vegetation, which could prove to make an active end of summer and start of fall wildfire season.

We should take this time to assure our apparatus and members are prepared to meet the potential increase in wildland and wildland urban interface calls for service.

In addition to the expected transition in seasons is also the start of a new school

year, football season, hunting season, and, of course, fire prevention month.

If you haven’t recently taken the opportunity to visit the senior living areas within your community and share the message of fire prevention, I encourage you to do so.

Most of the time we focus all of our attention on the school age during the month of October, but let’s not forget the message applies to all age groups.

If you don’t believe me, comb through your CRR data and you will probably find several calls for service due to “food on the stove.”

I hope all departments will take the opportunity to cast a broader net and educate as many people as possible on fire risks to help reduce the number of fire-related deaths within our state.

As the Legislative Committee Chair, I would like to let everyone know all of OFCA resolutions that were passed at the conference in April have all been added,

and the updated version of the OFCA Constitution and By-Laws is now online.

The documents can be viewed through the OSFA website under the OFCA tab. A big shout out goes to Raegan Layne, OFCA Administrative Assistant, who worked extremely hard to get the updates made and the documents published online.

One last thing I would like to mention is the upcoming Southwestern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Educational Conference.

This year, the conference will be held Oct. 17-20 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and will feature guest speakers Chief Frank Leeb (FDNY), Chief Scott Thompson (The Colony, TX), and Jason Hoevelmann (Florissant Fire Protection District, MO), just to name a few.

For more information and to get registered, please visit the SWD-IAFC website. Until next time, Stay Safe!

Terry Essary: OFCA 3rd Vice President’s Report

I hope everyone had an epic summer!

My favorite time of the year is the week around the 4th of July, and this year I was able to take my family to Colorado to get a break from the heat and breathe some fresh mountain air in Creede, Colorado.

We all had a great time (mostly) creating memories and focusing on being present and in the moment. I hope that you all purposely take some time to create great memories with your friends, family members and the brothers and sisters that you work with.

I want to touch on a subject that is near and dear to me, and also something that I struggle with.

We are wired to take care of everyone around us, and somehow we forget how important it is to take care of ourselves along the way. For some reason it almost feels selfish to dedicate specific time to work out and relax.

But the reality is, if we don’t take care of ourselves, then at some point we will no longer be as effective as we could be or even suffer a major health crisis. So I hope that we can reframe the topic and see just how important it is to spend time taking care of our mental, physical, and emotional health.

As fire chiefs and fire officers, we are leaders in our departments and serve as role models for our firefighters. We should set an example for others to follow, and our fitness and health levels heavily influence the culture and behavior within our departments. By prioritizing our own well-being, we encourage a culture of wellness and fitness among our personnel, promoting better overall health and job performance.

When we place a high priority on our overall health, it helps create a department culture that reduces the risk of injuries and accidents. Also, fitness plays a large role in how we mentally and emotionally deal with stresses on and off the job.

Physical fitness plays a vital role in our ability to think clearly and make sound judgments under pressure. It also enables

us to communicate clearly and maintain composure, ensuring that instructions are understood and executed efficiently. We all know that the demands of our profession take a toll on the body over time. Staying fit and healthy will help mitigate the risks associated with the job and promote long-term well-being.

Regular exercise, proper nutrition, proper sleep, and stress management techniques can reduce the likelihood of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure.

By taking care of our own health, fire chiefs and fire officers can continue to serve their communities effectively and enjoy a fulfilling career -- not to mention being able to enjoy a fulfilling retirement!

Overall, the importance of fitness and health for fire chiefs and fire officers extends beyond personal well-being. It impacts job performance, safety, leadership, and the overall culture within our fire departments, ultimately benefiting both our firefighters and the people they serve.

Mustang FD

Wet down ceremony for Stillwater

Tulsa FD

Michael Baker: OFCA 2nd Vice President’s Report

As I get older, the statement, “where has (insert current month) gone” becomes more frequent.

We are already mid-way through the summer, and I was already hit with a back-toschool advertisement this week.

June was memorable for the Tulsa Fire Department and the entire city due to the Father’s Day Derecho that literally blew the city away. This was a hidden disaster for several days as we attempted to handle what used to be considered once-in-a-career level firefighting.

With 117 mph straight winds hitting a large portion of the city, we were hit with over a thousand requests for service in the first 24 hours. Early on, these calls were for power lines downs, damaged natural gas meters and structure fires (59 over the first few hours of the event).

With 220,000 residents without power, this quickly became a humanitarian disaster. Power-dependent breathing machines and oxygen equipment obviously became useless, and this pushed everyone to the hospital.

The weather reminded us of who is boss as the heat descended over the city causing a shortage of ice and heat-related emergencies. Tree branches quickly dried, and we shifted into fire prevention mode as the risk of debris fires expanded.

As someone who worked the 2007 Ice Storm, I thought situations like these would be a once-in-a-career event.

Unfortunately, these complex weather events are becoming standard for Oklahoma and no community is immune.

The hardest workers in this situation were the members of the Tulsa Fire Department who did the best they could to clear holding requests for service and simply do their job.

We were very fortunate to have no significant injures even though we were walking in the dark with power lines at every turn. We learned many lessons from this event, and it is always good to work through a situation where you are without power, even if you have an emergency generator.

How will you communicate when mobile devices are without service? How do you take care of the firefighters’ families while they are on duty and their family home is without power?

Take a moment to review your department’s internal disaster plan. Clearly, we didn’t expect to have to use it so frequently.

Not everything in June and July was a disaster.

On July 8, Tulsa was honored to remain the host city for the annual International Fire Service Journal of Leadership and Management (IFSJLM)(ifsjlm.org) Research Symposium.

This one-day event brought many distinguished fire service leaders and researchers together to share their perspectives on the current state of the global fire program.

A few highlighted speakers for the day were Dr. Steve Kerber from UL who gave an update on their new perspective on fire dynamics and lithium-ion battery fires. Dr. Sara Jahnke spoke on her team’s research on bullying in the fire service.

And the audience heard an update from the U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell on the transition of fire service data away from NFIRS and the new NERIS system. Dr. Moore-Merrell and several of the day’s speakers took some time to visit Tulsa Fire Station No. 4 and hear from the on-duty firefighters about what they are experiencing at the neighborhood level. Keep your eye out for the event next year. The cost is free, and it is a great way to spend the day updating your craft.

The weekend of July 8 was also the start of the IFSTA Validation Conference. Congratulations to IFSTA which celebrates 90 years of service this year. We are blessed to have such several high-quality fire service academic organizations in our state.

The OFCA Education Committee has been selected and we will gather quickly to begin planning the Winter Workshop. At this rate, January will be here quickly, and we want to ensure that this year’s workshop is a great experience. Keep your eye out for additional information.

Enjoy your summer with friends and family and make sure you are staying hydrated as the Oklahoma heat is upon us!

Dr. Sara Janke (wearing black) along with several other fire service researchers, listen as US Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell asks questions of Tulsa firefighters on a visit to TFD Station 4 on July 8

Example of the massive trees damaged by 117 mph winds in Tulsa on June 17

ABOVE: Stillwater City Manager Norman McNickle’s last city council meeting after serving Stillwater for over 46 years

BELOW: Badge pinning ceremony for Stillwater FD Assistant Chief Halcomb

Frederick FD

James Heap: OFCA Past President’s Report

Greetings Oklahoma Fire Service!

I hope everyone has had a good summer with family and friends.

Hopefully each of you has had an opportunity to take a vacation and had a chance to relax a little bit.

The rains have been a blessing and hopefully the drought has been broken.

Work on the fire chief standard that I have mentioned before has begun and we

are progressing quite well.

For those who don’t know, a group of fire service stakeholders are working to establish a minimum standard and new chief training requirements for all fire chiefs in Oklahoma.

I know that most people don’t like change, but we feel this change is needed to help prevent deaths and injuries of firefighters and civilians.

I realize this may not be popular with everyone and I understand your concerns. But if we can prevent just one death, it will be worth the effort.

Every citizen deserves and expects to have a competent and efficient response to their calls for help.

We believe that this begins with an adequately trained fire chief. They could then lead by example and expect their firefighters to also meet a standard to provide that service to their citizens.

I hope that each of you will accept the fact that we need to accomplish this endeavor. It is what’s best for the Oklaho ma fire service and, more importantly, the people we serve, the citizens of Oklaho ma. Please stay safe!

The Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association is excited to launch our new digital membership portal for 2023-2024 memberships. This system will be beneficial to members and will help staff be more efficient in getting memberships updated and processed with correct information. It will require patience on our part as well as yours as we maneuver through the changes together but recognize that as we all become comfortable with this system that we will all find that it will save time.

The OFCA will no longer be printing membership cards for members. Members will access their cards through their member profile, which only becomes active after your OFCA membership summary is completed and paid for. The member will login to their individual member profile the same as they do to access their cards for the OSFA, and they will then be able to access their membership card for print or screenshot. Our office will continue to mail window decals for each NEW (First Time Free) member on the summary. Additional decals may be purchased, and are $3 per decal.

Per Constitutional Resolution 2023-03, which was voted on, and passed on April 14, 2023 at the 101st Annual OFCA Conference. The membership dues increase will be as follows:

ARTICLE 6 - MEMBERSHIP DUES

Section 1. Active Members. Active Member, as defined in Article 4, Section 2, dues shall be $55.00 per year. – $5.00 of said dues shall be dedicated to the Keith Bryan Memorial Scholarship Fund and said dedicated dues shall be placed in a 501c3 account as provided by the Internal Revenue Code.

Section 2. Retired Active Members. Retired Active Members, as defined in Article 4, Section 3, dues shall be $40.00 per year.

Section 3. Sustaining Members. Sustaining members, as defined

in Article 4, Section 4, dues shall be $30.00 per year.- $5.00 of said dues shall be dedicated to the Keith Bryan Memorial Scholarship Fund and said dedicated dues shall be placed in a 501c3 account as provided by the Internal Revenue Code.

Because every year there is confusion, we wanted to clarify a few common misconceptions regarding the OFCA Membership. This membership is not intended to be for your whole department. While any member of your department can join, it is more common for only your chief/assistant chief/ chief officers to be paid members, as they are the only ones who get voting rights. Anyone on your department that serves as a chief officer or shift commander must be paid for as an active member. Anyone on your department that does not serve in those positions that would like to be a member of the OFCA must be paid for as a sustaining member. The system will require you to provide us with the rank/ title of each person you have on your summary before you will be able to submit it. Please note once you have submitted your membership, an invoice will be created and emailed to you based on what you submit. These invoices are manually made, so dependent on time, date, etc. of submission; it is likely the invoice will not be received immediately. Please be patient.

On our website, https://osfa.info/ofca/join , you will find a picture step-by-step tutorial with instructions on how to access the new portal for membership. Please follow the instructions accordingly. If you have trouble, please call our office and speak with Raegan Layne at 405-424-1452.

Thank you for your commitment to the OFCA!

It is Time to Renew Your Membership with the Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association!

OFCA Board members at 2023 ORFA Convention & in the 129th annual OSFA Convention Golf Tournament