Oklahoma Firefighter June/July 2020 newspaper by Oklahoma State Firefighters Assoc

Official publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association

June/July 2020 Volume 37, Issue 5

OSFA STRONG! Working together to protect & improve the Oklahoma Fire service ACHILLE n ADA n ADAIR n ADAIR CO TRI-COMMUNITY n AFTON n AGRA n ALDERSON n ALFALFA RURAL n ALINE n ALLEN n ALVA n AMBER n AMES n AMORITA-BYRON n ANADARKO ANTLERS n ARAPAHO n ARDMORE n ARKOMA n ASHER n ATOKA n ATWOOD n BALKO n BARNSDALL n BASIN n BEAR CREEK n BEAVER n BEE BUTCHER PEN n BEGGS n BENGAL BERLIN n BERRYHILL FPD n BESSIE n BETHANY n BETHEL ACRES n BIG CABIN n BESSIE n BILLINGS n BIXBY n BLACKWELL n BLAIR n BLANCHARD n BOISE CITY n BOKCHITO BOKOSHE n BOLEY n BOSWELL n BRAGGS n BRAMAN n BRECKINRIDGE n BRIDGE CREEK FPD n BRISTOW n BROKEN ARROW n BROKEN BOW n BROXTON n BUFFALO BUGTUSSLE n BUNCOMBE CREEK n BURBANK n BURLINGTON n BURNS FLAT n BUTLER n BUTLER VOLUNTEER n BYARS n BYNG n CACHE n CADDO n CALERA n CALUMET n CALVIN CAMARGO n CANADIAN n CANEY n CANTON n CANUTE n CARNEGIE n CARNEY n CARTER n CASHION n CATOOSA n CEDAR COUNTRY FPD n CEMENT n CENTRAL HIGH (SALLISAW) CHANDLER n CHATTANOOGA n CHECOTAH n CHELSEA n CHEROKEE n CHEYENNE n CHICKASHA n CHICKEN CREEK n CHIMNEY ROCK n CHOCTAW n CHOUTEAU n CLAREMORE n CLAYTON CLEAR CREEK n CLEO SPRINGS n CLEORA COMMUNITY n CLEVELAND n CLINTON n CLOUD CHIEF n COALGATE n COGAR n COLBERT n COLCORD n COLE n COLLINSVILLE n COMANCHE COOKSON n COPAN n CORDELL n CORN n CORUM n COVE ACRES n COWETA n COWSKIN RURAL n COYLE n CRESCENT n CRINER HILLS n CROW ROOST n CROWDER n CUSHING CUSTER CITY n CYRIL n DAISY n DAVENPORT n DAVIDSON n DAVIS n DEER CREEK FPD n DEL CITY n DELAWARE n DEPEW n DEWAR n DEWEY n DICKSON n DILL CITY n DOUGHERTY DOVER n DOYLE n DRUMMOND n DRUMRIGHT n DUNCAN n DURANT n DUSTIN n EAKLY n EARLSBORO n EAST DUKE n EDMOND n EL RENO n ELDORADO n ELGIN n ELK CITY ELMORE CITY n EMPIRE n ENID n ERICK n EUFAULA n FAIRFAX n FAIRLAND n FAIRMONT n FAIRVIEW n FALCONHEAD n FARGO n FELT n FITTSTOWN n FLETCHER n FLINT RIDGE FOREST PARK n FORGAN n FORT COBB n FORT COFFEE n FORT SUPPLY n FOSS n FRANCIS n FREDERICK n FREEDOM n FREEDOM HILL n FREENY VALLEY n FRIENDSHIP n GAGE GARBER n GATE n GERONIMO n GLENCOE n GLENPOOL n GOLDSBY n GOLTRY n GORE n GOTEBO n GRACEMONT n GRANDFIELD n GRANITE n GRAYHORSE INDIAN VILLAGE GREEN COUNTRY n GREENLEAF RURAL n GROVE n GUTHRIE n GUYMON n HAMMON n HANNA RURAL n HARRAH n HARTSHORNE n HASKELL n HASTINGS n HAUANI CREEK n HAW CREEK HAWLEY RURAL n HAYWOOD & ARPELAR n HEALDTON n HEAVENER n HELENA n HENNESSEY n HENRYETTA n HESTER n HICKORY n HICKORY HILLS FPD n HIGH HILL n HIGHWAY 9 HINTON n HITCHCOCK n HOBART n HODGEN n HOGEYE n HOLDENVILLE n HOLLIS n HOMINY n HUGO n HULBERT n HUNTER n HYDRO n IDABEL n INDIAHOMA n INDIANOLA n INOLA ISABELLA n JACKTOWN FPD n JAY n JENKS n JENNINGS n JET n JOY n KANSAS n KATIE n KAW CITY n KEEFETON n KELLYVILLE n KENTON n KEOTA n KETCHUM n KEYES n KEYS KEYSTONE n KIEFER n KILDARE n KINGFISHER n KINGSTON n KINTA n KIOWA n KONAWA n KREBS n KREMLIN n LAKE MURRAY VILLAGE n LAKE VALLEY RURAL n LAKEWOOD n LAMAR LAMONT n LANGLEY n LAVERNE n LAWTON n LEBANON n LEEDEY n LENAPAH n LEON COMMUNITY n LEXINGTON n LIBERTY AREA n LINDSAY n LITTLE AXE n LOCUST GROVE LONA VALLEY n LONE GROVE n LONE WOLF n LONGDALE n LOWREY n LOYAL n LUCIEN n LULA n LUTHER n MADILL n MANCHESTER n MANGUM n MANNFORD n MANNSVILLE MARBLE CITY n MARIETTA n MARLAND n MARLOW n MARSHALL n MAUD n MAY n MAYSVILLE n McALESTER n McCORD n McLOUD n MEDFORD n MEEKER n MEERS n MENO n MERIDIAN MERIDIAN COMMUNITY n MESSER n MIAMI n MIDWEST CITY n MILBURN n MILL CREEK n MILLERTON n MINCO n MONROE n MOORE n MOORELAND n MORRIS n MORRISON n MOUNDS MOUNTAIN VIEW n MULDROW n MULHALL n MUSKOGEE n MUSTANG n NEWCASTLE n NEWKIRK n NICHOLS HILLS n NICOMA PARK n NOBLE n NORMAN n NORWOOD RURAL n NUYAKA NW ROGERS CO FPD n OAK CLIFF FPD n OAK GROVE FPD n OAKRIDGE n OCHELATA n OCTAVIA n OGLESBY n OILTON n OKARCHE n OKAY n OKEENE n OKLAHOMA CITY n OKMULGEE n OKTAHA OLIVE n OMEGA RURAL FPD n ONAPA n OPTIMA n ORLANDO n OSAGE HILLS RURAL n OSAGE NATION WILDLAND n OSAGE-PLEASANT VIEW n OWASSO n OWENS & CO n PADEN n PANAMA PAOLI n PARADISE POINT n PAULS VALLEY n PAWHUSKA n PEGGS n PERKINS n PERRY n PERSHING n PHILLIPS 66 n PIEDMONT n PINK n PONCA CITY n POND CREEK n PORUM PORUM LANDING FPA n POST MOUNTAIN n POTEAU n PRAGUE n PRESTON n PRYOR CREEK n PURCELL n PUTNAM n QUAPAW n QUAPAW NATION n QUINTON n RALSTON n RAMONA RANCH DRIVE n RANDLETT n RATTAN n RATLIFF CITY n RAVIA n REAGAN n RENTIESVILLE n REYDON n RICHLAND n RINGLING n RINGWOOD n RIPLEY n ROCK n ROCK TOWNSHIP ROCKY n ROFF n ROLAND n ROLLING HILLS FPD n ROOSEVELT n ROSSTON n RYAN n SALEM-RYAL n SALLISAW n SAND SPRINGS n SAVANNA n SAYRE n SEILING n SEILING RURAL SENTINEL n SHARON COMMUNITY n SHATTUCK n SHAWNEE n SHIDLER n SKIATOOK n SLAPOUT n SLAUGHTERVILLE n SNYDER n SOLDIER CANEY CREEK n SOONER VOLUNTEER SOUTH COFFEYVILLE n SPAULDING n SPAVINAW n SPERRY n SPIRO n SPRING VALLEY n SPRINGER n STERLING n STIGLER n STILLWATER n STILWELL n STONE BLUFF FPD STONEWALL n STRANG n STRATFORD n STRINGTOWN n STROUD n STUART n SUGDEN n SULPHUR n SUMNER n SW LINCOLN CO FPD n TAFT n TAHLEQUAH n TALIHINA n TALOGA TATUMS n TECUMSEH n TEMPLE n TERRAL n TEXANNA n TEXOLA n THACKERVILLE n THE VILLAGE n THOMAS n TIGER MOUNTAIN n TIPTON n TISHOMINGO n TONKAWA n TRI-CITY TRIBBEY n TULSA n TUPELO n TURLEY n TURPIN n TUSHKA n TUTTLE n TWIN LAKES n UNION CITY n VALERO ARDMORE REFINERY n VALLEY VIEW n VALLIANT n VELMA n VIAN VICI n VINITA n WAGONER n WAKITA n WALTERS n WANETTE n WANN n WARNER n WARR ACRES n WASHINGTON VOLUNTEER n WATONGA n WATTS n WAUKOMIS n WAURIKA n WAYNE WAYNOKA n WEATHERFORD n WEBBERS FALLS n WELLSTON n WEST SILOAM SPRINGS n WESTVILLE n WHEELESS-MEXHOMA n WHITEFIELD n WICHITA MOUNTAIN ESTATES WILBURTON n WILLOW n WISTER n WOODCREST FPD n WOODWARD n WRIGHT CITY n WYANDOTTE n WYNNEWOOD n YALE n YUBA n YUKON

I N S I D E

OSFA Executive Board Members’ Comments............................................................. 5-7 OSFA Executive Director’s Report - Steve Lumry ......................................................... 7 Governor Signs COLA Legislation ................................................................................... 7 ORFA Report - President Tippy Pierce ........................................................................... 8 Firefighter Near-Miss Report - Greg Lindsay ............................................................... 10 Inaugural OSFA 100 Year Award Recipients ......................................................... 18-19 Museum News - Gene Brown ......................................................................................... 20 Executive Board Meeting Highlights ............................................................................. 30 Oklahoma Fire Spotlight -- Owasso FD ........................................................................ 33 In Memoriam .................................................................................................................. 35

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OKLAHOMA STATE STATE FIREFIGHTERS FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION OKLAHOMA 2716 N.E. N.E. 50th 50th St. St. 2716 Oklahoma City, City, OK OK 73111 73111 Oklahoma

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2June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

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Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 20203

klahoma Firefighter June/July 2020

Volume 37 — Issue 5

Official Publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association 2716 N.E. 50th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 424-1452 • 1-800-308-5336 Fax (405) 424-1032 osfa@osfa.info • www.osfa.info Published monthly by and 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 Steve Lumry stevel@osfa.info

Managing Editor Penelope Soldan penelopes@osfa.info

Letters to the Editor: Oklahoma Firefighter encourages the

open exchange of ideas, opinions and concerns among members of the fire service community. Letters to the Editor should: concentrate on issues, not personalities; be typed; be signed by the writer and include writer’s telephone number; and be mailed (or emailed) to the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association: 2716 N.E. 50th St., Oklahoma City, OK, 73111 (osfa@osfa.info). Oklahoma Firefighter reserves the right to publish, edit and condense letters according to space limitations and the editor’s judgement. Great care will be taken to ensure the message in the letter is not altered. Anonymous letters will not be published.

Official publication of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association

May 2019 Volume 36, Issue 4

ACTA NON VERBA ( Actions not Words )

Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Oklahoma State 126th OSFAConvention Firefighters

Oklahoma State

Association

Firefighters

125th OSFA

Association

It’s an easy and convenient way to stay on top of what’s happening at OSFA!

Pension & Retirement ... 28

Conrad Fire Equipment .... 15

Phillips Murrah P.C. ......... 3

ITE Fire & Rescue .............. 21

Roberts Testing ................ 22

NAFECO ............................. 2

Sharp Testing ..................... 35

OAEVT .................................. 22

Hosted By Ponca City

OSFA Convention Sponsors’ INDEX

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June 5 - 8, 2019

OKLAHOMA STATE STATE FIREFIGHTERS FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION OKLAHOMA 2716 N.E. N.E. 50th 50th St. St. 2716 Oklahoma City, City, OK OK 73111 73111 Oklahoma

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I N S I D E

2019 OSFA Convention Details .......................................................................................4 OSFA Executive Board Members’ Comments ............................................................5-6 OSFA Executive Director’s Report - Steve Lumry ..........................................................7 OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Report -Marti Carpenter ......................................................8 Firefighter Near-Miss Report - Greg Lindsay ............................................................... 10 Museum News - Gene Brown ........................................................................................13 ORFA Report - President Juan Rodriguez ....................................................................15 House Passes Firefighter Bills ............................................................................... 18-19 Chaplain’s Corner - Kim Hayes .....................................................................................19 Executive Board Meeting Highlights ............................................................................ 24 Oklahoma Fire Spotlight -- Ft. Towson FD .................................................................. 26

Simply call (405-424-1452) or email the OSFA office (osfa@osfa.info) and request digital editions! Please provide your name and address for verification.

Ardian ................................... 32

LGT Capital Partners ........... 26

Berman Tabacco ................. 25

Lord Abbett .......................... 30

Beutel Goodman ................. 26

Nuveen .................................. 8

Commonfund Capital ......... 11

PIMCO ................................... 27

Garcia Hamilton & Assoc ... 14

PTG ........................................ 8

Grant & Eisenhofer ............. 12

RBC Global ........................... 25

KTMC ..................................... 10

Saxena White ....................... 10

Labaton Sucharow .............. 31

Scott + Scott ........................ 29

Landmark Partners ............. 30

4June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

PresidenT

I’m happy to report that HB 3350 -- our COLA bill -- was signed into law by Governor Stitt. This is the culmination of a 12-year battle to secure a cost of living adjustment for our retirees. This legislation outlines a stair-stepped approach where members who have been retired 5 years or more will receive a 4% increase, those retired 2-5 years will receive a 2% increase and anyone that has been retired less than 2 years will not receive an increase. Thanks to everyone who worked tirelessly on the passage of this crucial legislation during a very difficult legislative session to navigate. As part of balancing the budget, the legislature also reduced the amount of insurance premium tax that will be going into the pension system over the next two years and increased it over the five years following. While we never like to see funding reduced, we are encouraged that our Pension Fund is strong enough to grant a COLA and assist in the State budget in this time of crisis. Your OSFA Board will be monitoring this situation closely over the coming years. The OSFA Board made the decision on May 7 to hold the ORFA and OSFA Conventions as scheduled in June. The decision was made after consulting with elected local leaders and having faith that we will have opened enough to be able to hold the scheduled events.

Mike Kelley

OKC FD

mkelley@local157.org • 405-623-4338

The 39th ORFA Convention is June 9 in Oklahoma City. Immediately following on June 10-13 will be the 126th OSFA Convention and 88th OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Convention. The conventions will be held at the downtown Sheraton (1 N Broadway Ave). This is in the heart of OKC within walking and streetcar distance of many great restaurants, bars and entertainment. I appreciate everyone’s patience and the work of my convention committee and OSFA staff as we continue to plan and adjust to the ever-changing rules. Currently we are limited to 36 total teams in the golf tournament which is full. If the guidance is relaxed, we will be able to add additional teams so if you sign up now you will be placed on a waiting list. We are adjusting in other areas where they are needed to remain in compliance with our State and City guidelines. One such modification is limiting this year’s Memorial Service to delegates and guests only. This decision was made for a number of reasons: we have another Memorial Service later in the year, to limit the number of people in close proximity (social distancing), and several family members of our brothers and sisters that have gone before us are in higher risk categories. Thanks to everyone for your understanding! We plan to live stream the event so anyone who wants to may join us remotely. I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate our OSFA Executive Director Steve Lumry. Steve has

decided after many years of dedicated service to the OSFA to retire at the conclusion of the convention. During his tenure as the Executive Director, we have seen many successes, including a record high in membership and the passage of our No. 1 legislative priority -- a COLA for our retirees. I have had the privilege of serving with Steve on the Oklahoma City Fire Department and with the OSFA, and I can assure you that regardless of his affiliation, you have never met a stauncher advocate or more loyal friend than Steve. Congratulations to Steve and, more importantly, Cheryl! Enjoy your retirement and many blessings to you both! In closing, I would like to thank you, the firefighters of this great state, for allowing me the honor of serving as your president for the last year. I can assure everyone that you have an OSFA Board that truly wants to provide the best for what we believe are the best people anywhere. You demonstrate everyday what the Oklahoma Standard means! The fire service in our proud state takes a backseat to no one! And while I chose this year’s convention theme before the pandemic, I believe it is more fitting today: “Iron Sharpens Iron, Forged Through Adversity.” As I close a chapter in my journey, I feel so blessed to have been challenged and forged by the wonderful group of men and women of the Oklahoma Fire Service. Stay safe and may God Bless you and yours!

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 20205

1st Vice PresidenT n

Eric Harlow

Guthrie FD

ericharlow200@gmail.com Greetings Oklahoma firefighters! It’s hard to believe, but convention time is already here. I hope to see all of you there. I know President Kelley and his Oklahoma City brothers and sisters have an excellent convention planned for us. Be sure and check out the new white water rafting event! Congratulations to all of our retirees on the passing of the COLA bill in the legislature. Governor Stitt signed the bill into law on May 21. This is the culmination of several years of hard work by OSFA, ORFA, and OFCA. Thank you to everybody for their patience, diligence and their willingness to call their legislators when we needed them. This was long overdue and our retirees definitely deserve it. We cannot stop the hard work, though. This COLA barely gets them caught up to where they need to be. We need to continue to push forward for continual raises for our retirees in the future by staying in contact with our legislators. We cannot let them fall as far behind as they did before. I also want to say a huge thank you to all the Representatives and Senators who were on our side and went to bat for us in our time of need to help get this passed. Things are starting to open back up and the economy seems to be improving. Our pension investments showed a positive return over the last month and that is definitely encouraging for the future. I know many of you saw that the legislature diverted our insurance premium tax funds to help balance the state’s general fund budget. Rest assured this money will be paid back with interest. At the May pension board meeting our executive director gave us an overview of how this action will affect our pension system. It really will have very little impact on the system overall -- so small that you won’t even really notice it in the final numbers. In closing, I want to remind everybody to continue social distancing, continue to wash your hands frequently and continue to keep everything sanitized. This pandemic is not completely over, and the longer we continue to take these extra steps to keep things clean and sanitized, the better off we will be to stop it. Stay safe and we will see you in Oklahoma City!

2019-20 OSFA Executive Board PRESIDENT Mike Kelley 405-623-4388 mkelley@local157.org 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Eric Harlow 405-520-2893 ericharlow200@gmail.com 2ND VICE PRESIDENT 580-554-1886

davidsoncliff@yahoo.com

3RD VICE PRESIDENT Jim Ed Nimmo

918-557-8379

jimnimmo7@gmail.com

580-761-5338

IAFFLocal2479@yahoo.com

PAST PRESIDENT Dereck Cassady

Jim Ed Nimmo

Tulsa FD

jimnimmo7@gmail.com 918-557-8379

405-520-2893

Cliff Davidson

3rd vice PresidenT

Well, we finally got the COLA across the finish line. A lot of effort has gone into that over the last few years. I hope it helps those who need it. I am glad to see we are proceeding with the convention and am looking forward to seeing those of you who make it to the city this year. A week or two into the reality of pandemic, or plandemic as some folks have decided to call it, I read or heard a lot of chatter about an old testament story in the bible. Most of it centered around the Passover tradition lined out in Exodus. At the time, folks were trying to find a way to deal with what was a dire prognosis and we were on the edge of Easter. Just eight weeks ago, I can remember people talking about placing red cloth over the casing around their doors to symbolize the lambs blood Moses and Aaron instructed the Israelites to place on theirs in Egypt to protect their first born so they would be “passed over” when the angel of death spread through the land. You can see where folks might draw a parallel between the two. I’m sure this isn’t a new thing, just the first time I had heard people discussing it with the intent of doing it. I can tell you that both of my grandmothers went to church every time the doors were open, one a Baptist and the other Pentecostal, and I was usually dragged along with one or the other when I was growing up. It seems like Passover was usually discussed in Sunday school the week before Easter, but I cannot remember them hanging red fabric over their doors. I decided to go back and read Exodus for myself. I’ll be honest, when I dive into the old testament after a chapter or so I usually feel like Karl Childers when he says, “I don’t understand all of it [The Bible], but I reckon I understand a great deal of it.” Then there are times I feel like Doyle Hargraves when he says, “Yeah, well I can’t understand none of it, this one begat that one, and this one begat that one, and beget and begat and low and behold ...”; I guess I probably shouldn’t finish that line. That’s all from Sling Blade if you haven’t watched it at least 200 times (mostly at the firehouse) like I have. Anyway, without getting in a deep theological discussion, my point is this: God gave the Israelites a set of instructions to follow so that they would be protected, and it worked out along with a plan to honor their deliverance (and God). I don’t remember the part where those instructions included go forth and act like the whole angel of death was just a big hoax. As it stands now, I feel like we were given a path to reduce the spread of this virus and it worked out. I think everyone is getting out a lot more than they were, although I admit a lot of people didn’t alter their daily lives one bit, while some may be overly cautious. The funny part is it seems like those who were talking about placing red cloth across their door, are the most resistant to the most minimal of things to prevent viral spread. Baby boomers who were putting millennials on blast two months ago for being at beaches on spring break are the ones yelling plandemic, hoax, and other nonsense about microchips the loudest. I’m just a guy who doesn’t have a full grasp on the bible, but I know this -- if they really wanted us all microchipped by the end of the week, all they would have to do is tell most of you not to do it and 75% or better of the population would be demanding it without having to wreck the economy in the process. As for me, I’ll just thank the good Lord I made it through the process so far without me or any of my immediate family getting sick, without a $500k medical bill after insurance, or someone close to us dying.

6June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

PAST PREsident

Dereck Cassady

Ponca City FD

IAFFLocal2479@ yahoo.com • 580-761-5338 I sit here and think, Wow, the last five years have flown by. It seems like it was yesterday that we were at Convention in OKC and I was running for the OSFA Board. It has truly been honor to serve on the board. We have had many changes in the last five years. We have added multiple benefits, increased membership, worked on museum expansion and celebrated 125 years as an organization. As I pondered what to put in my last article, I kept getting led back to PTSD and suicide in the fire service. This is something I have written about many times over the last five years. It seems like every day when we see the news, another firefighter has taken his or her life. We as the fire service family need to pull together and become more aware and educated of signs and symptoms associated with these issues. There have been initiatives begun in the fire service to address suicidality. I have had a lot of positive feedback on the article that was written in March 2019, so I decided reun it again. All the credit for this article goes to my wife who wrote this as part of her focus with her master’s program. It is an overview of suicidality in regards to our culture and steps being taken to reduce the numbers of our fallen brothers and bring behavioral health to the forefront. Luckily we are seeing more attention being given to the subject, but we have a lot further to go. Once again, thank you for allowing me to serve on your board for the last five years. According to Carla Jackson (2018), suicide is now the tenth(10th) leading cause of death in the United States and is one of three (3) leading causes of death that are on the rise, the others being drug overdose and Alzheimer’s disease. The unparalleled bravery of first responders is brought to the attention of the public following huge or tragic events in a community, generally through social or news media. However, the public is seldom made to comprehend the fact of the horrors and tragedies that first responders witness first hand on a daily basis. Constant exposure to these events exerts a large toll on those in the fire service and on their mental health. The fire service culture is one that leads personnel to feel isolated, making light of the problem as they envision that others in their tight community have seen or witnessed the same tragedies and not sought help for the after effects. Being upheld as heroes, a person or persons who are admired for their courage, achievements and noble characteristics, also makes seeking help for depression and suicidal ideation difficult. Not only do these men and women feel that it is important to appear stable and heroic to those they work with, but also with the public for which they serve. These things have aided in the rising suicide rates of firefighters across the United States. This paper will outline the fire service culture, mental health and suicidality rates and the programs that are addressing the changing view of the fire service and behavioral health. Culture is defined as a basic or shared assumption, learned by a group, as it works to solve problems. This creates a patterned way of thinking throughout the group (Brauer, 2016). Researchers report that organizational culture creates a value system that frames the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors of its members. Organizational Culture also gives structure to help its members maintain and adapt to their unique job situation (Brauer, 2016). Uniformed professions, such as the military, fire, EMT and police have specific cultures unique to themselves, their service units and their type of work. There are common characteristics, such as a sense of duty and allegiance, which are not found in the same degree in other professions. Brauer (2016) lists the main characteristics of fire service as being relatively isolated from society, using uniforms to identify themselves, having a hierarchical command structure and promotion through existing ranks. The fire service also differs from other organizations by the level of danger that they are exposed to, unusual work schedules, a communal life and strong discipline. During shift, firefighters live in a barrack type facility where they share meals, showering facilities, sleep and common areas. They immerse themselves into the culture that quickly becomes a part of their life fabric on and off duty. Traditions such as looking out for one another are expected even when you may not choose to friend a fellow employee off duty. Bidding to work particular shifts to ensure days on and who you might be

working with become important during a shift shuffle. There are rituals that begin the work day, new member duties, ranks and internal structure which drives decision frameworks within the organization as well as rules and chain of command direction which are integral to the job for fire suppression and victim safety as well as fire service personnel safety. Skipping steps can lead to an increased risk of death and injury to the firefighter and could also lead to punitive action for failing to follow orders. The weight of this culture can weigh heavy on its followers, creating an environment where Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) lies simmering beneath the outer shell. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA, 2019), PTSD is a mental health disorder that occurs when people witness or experience a traumatic event such as death, threatened death, actual or threatened serious injury, natural disaster, a terrorist or war act or actual or threatened sexual violence. People who have PTSD have intense thoughts or feelings related to the experience long after the event has ended. Those in the fire service not only have one likely event, but several over shortened periods of time, thus causing it to be difficult to recognize what event is actually triggering the response. Some symptoms of PTSD include but are not limited to trouble sleeping, social isolation, trouble concentrating, intrusive thoughts, irritability and feelings of self-blame (APA, 2019). Another category outlined by the APA (2019) is that of symptoms of arousal and reactive actions such as angry outburst and/or behaving in reckless and self-destructive ways which are response to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Research has noted that there is an increased risk linked with firefighters and hazardous drinking behavior due to efforts to control these symptoms. One such research found a 58% rate in binge and hazardous drinking in those polled (Heyman, Dill & Douglas, 2018). The same researchers found an increased rate of depression and a 46.8% rate of reported thinking about suicide during their career (Heyman et al., 2018). In 2015 there were one hundred forty-three (143) reported firefighter suicides compared to one hundred thirtynine (139) in 2016 and one hundred three (103) in 2017 (Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA), 2019). FBHA (2019) reports that it is thought that these numbers only represent 40% of actual fire service suicides. According to Jeff Dill with the FBHA (2019), those in the fire service are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty for their job. The largest barrier to change in suicidality rates in the fire service lies within the culture itself. The men and women who enter the fire service see themselves and their partners as being strong, tough and able, not only physically but mentally as well. In a profession where strength, bravery and heroism are a given, mental health issues and the threat of personnel suicide is often viewed as a weakness that no one wants to talk about. There is an inaccurate perception that mental illness can be career destroying, that those who depend on you for their lives may not be able to count on you as expected. In this climate no one talks about mental health. In 2011, Jeff Dill founded the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA). Dill is dedicated to the issue of fire service mental health. He and his staff travel all over the nation presenting workshops to those organizations who are seeking to put to rest the stigma of PTSD, depression and suicidality in the fire service. Education and awareness must start at the top to help eliminate stigma. Whereas isolation is an integral part of suicidal ideation in the fire service, positive social support within the ranks helps to allow service members to feel that they can go to others and talk. Peer to peer support groups have been one of the most effective programs put into place. Firefighters feel better understood when talking to someone who has shared their same job duties and pressures as well as comparable trauma types (Ali, 2017). Fire service officers should be trained to spot behavioral changes and be willing to ask the hard questions that come with it. Officers must create a supportive environment where members are not afraid to come forward for their own mental health or if they are seeing symptoms in a shift member. Ali (2017) was part of an integral group that created a program to cover awareness, risk factors and prevention. She was assisted by Dr. Mark Holland who is a behavioral health specialist that works locally with the Raleigh, North Carolina fire service. Ali (2017) reports that the reception was overwhelming. The members were thankful for the information and were able to see the need for change in their culture. There is no doubt a long road to reach every fire department and member across the United States, but already members are beginning to have more open talks. They are talking about culture and what changes will look like. There are websites and specialized programs in place specifically for fire service members. Articles are being written, organizations are being created, behavioral health centers are being

2nd vice President

Cliff Davidson

Ringwood FD

580-554-1886 davidsoncliff@yahoo.com

Hello everyone! I hope you all are finding yourselves healthy and well. It’s hard to believe that June is already here. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at convention. I know that President Kelley and his crew have worked diligently to ensure us all a great experience. The OSFA Convention is one of my favorite times of the year, as we all get together and discuss the issues that affect the fire service and try to work together and make the changes needed to benefit our members. It will also be the first time we are together to celebrate the long overdue passing of the COLA. It has been an honor for me to serve the members, and I look forward to serving you all in the years to come. Every year presents new challenges for us. If we all work together, I know we can make the decisions that move us forward. As an organization, we all need to do our part to make the organization stronger. Let’s all work together and do what we can to achieve the goals we are trying to meet. One of those goals is the Museum Expansion. You all can make a difference by donating time or money. We are excited to say that we have approved the construction of the maintenance and storage facility that will be constructed on the East side of the Museum and office building. If you can help with tree removal or dirt work, please contact the Executive Director or one of the Board members. There are many ways that you can help make a difference. If you do not have a firefighter tag, this is one way of helping. For every tag that is purchased, $20 helps with funding. So I encourage each of you to buy a tag. It shows your pride in the organization and what you do. I challenge all of you to take a picture of your tag and make it your profile picture to encourage your fellow firefighters to purchase a tag. (Those spotted around the state are on Page 34). Thank you all for your dedication and support. given the tools to address the symptoms that are leading to fire fighter empowerment instead of isolation. Fire families are looking out for each other. It may be a few years until the numbers post, but until then it appears that there are solid programs being formed to decrease the suicidality rates in the fire service. References Ali, D. (2017). Dena Ali: Awareness level fire service suicide prevention. FDIC International. Tulsa, Ok. Retrieved on February 17, 2019 from https://www.fdic.com/articles/2017/07/dena-ali-awareness-level-fireservice-suicide-prevention.html American Psychiatric Association. (2019). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Brauer, B.R. (2016). The fire and emergency services culture: Can it be changed? Fire Engineering 169(8). Retrieved from https://www.fireengineering.com/articles/print/volume-169/issue-8/features/the-fire-andemergency-services-culture-can-it-be-changed.html Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (n.d.). Retrieved on February 18, 2019 from http://www.ffbha.org/ Heyman, M., Dill, J., Douglas, R., (2018). The Ruderman white paper on mental health and suicide of first responders. Retrieved from https:// issuu.com/rudermanfoundation/docs/first_responder_white_paper_final_ac270d530f8bfb/2 Jackson, C.A. (2018). CDC: Suicide rates up in nearly every state Report finds increases from 1999 through 2016. Firefighter Nation. Retrieved February 18, 2019 from https://www.firefighternation.com/ articles/2018/06/cdc-suicide-rates-up-in-nearly-every-state.html

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 20207

OSFA executive director n

Steve Lumry

OCFD Retired

Of all of the articles I have

written, this one is definitely the toughest for me. We are rolling into convention in the next few weeks and I am excited about that and getting to

see everyone again. The organization is doing really well with the highest number of members we have had in a long time, even without some of the regular members having rejoined for this year yet (I know they will though). Our benefits are as high as they have ever been thanks to the Membership Committee and the FEMA grants providing FFI training, gear and physicals to volunteer members.

We have passed the first COLA legislation in 12 years. I was beginning to think, like many of you, that we were never going to see another COLA. A lot of people did their part (including hopefully you) in this process. However, I would like to call out some folks that did a particularly good job (above and beyond). First, I have to say a huge thank you to Chase Rankin, the pension system director. While he can’t lobby, nothing prevents him from sharing prevalent publicly available information, which helped to educate lawmakers as to the real health of our system. Next would have to be Don Armes and Julia JerniganSmith, our OSFA lobbyists who provided great advice and determination throughout this process. Also, I have to mention Past President Scott Van Horn. Scott was able to have a tremendous behind-the-scenes presence throughout the session with his position as Local 157’s President. Scott always kept me, Don and Julia in the loop with what he was able to pick up at the Capitol. That was something that he didn’t have to do, but it was very helpful that he did. Then there was the OKC Retirees Wednesday Group that met at the Capitol every Wednesday headed by ORFA 1st VP George Fina. I still don’t know why they call it the OKC Retirees Wednesday Group because it was made up of people from all over the state: Tulsa, Moore, Midwest City, Lawton, and at one meeting, everyone from the OSFA Legislative Committee, just to name a few. But, I guess they have to call it something. Matt Lay (2018 OSFA President) was very resourceful and helpful during this fight, as well. Finally, last but not least, I have to include T. Dick Cagle (1998 OSFA President). Dick would call me at random times with some great ideas on how to proceed, and he was the instrument that provided that strongest pieces of information that really helped change the course of the legislation, that being the independently researched economic impact information. And then there were those of you who took the information we supplied and used it to speak to your legislators. That made the difference. We also must publicly thank several key legislators, whom without we would not have a COLA. The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association and their families wanted to say a huge “THANK YOU” to those in the Senate who have fought tirelessly for the COLA legislation. We could not have done it without you. Of course we have to thank the principal authors of the legislation, Rep. Avery Frix and Senator Roger Thompson.

stevel@osfa.info • 405-424-1452

Others who really stood tall in the Senate and worked to ensure the bill’s success were Senators Roland Pederson and Paul Rosino. Due to space limitations, I will stop there even though there were the co-authors, committee leadership, and Senate and House leadership, as well.

We put many miles on our cars this year traveling the state to educate you on the COLA and other issues the OSFA is dealing with in an effort to keep you informed. Between the regional COLA meetings around the state, retiree meetings all around the state, fire department meetings, chiefs meetings, etc., we have gotten to see and speak to many of you and enjoyed every minute of it. We attempted to keep you informed through the Oklahoma Firefighter newspaper, the email blasts, and Facebook without wearing you out. Believe me when I say that is quite a balancing act.

The museum expansion phase 1 is underway and should be completed sometime around the David Bain Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial Golf Tournament. Phase 1 consists of a new 6 bay storage building, driveway and employee parking (that are required under OKC ordinances). This will allow us to get some fire trucks out of the weather, move some out of the museum (and put them on a rotation basis so you see something different each time you come), and clear room inside the museum to begin on the interactive displays. All of this will show past and future donors that we are filling our promises. The Museum Expansion Committee has been instrumental in making that happen and they are to be congratulated.

These are just a small portion of the things that have been worked on at the OSFA this year and are building up for me to say, I have been very privileged and honored to get to serve Oklahoma Firefighters as your Executive Director. After 15 total years at OSFA, 35+ years advocating for firefighters in one form or fashion, I would like to end with a quote from Teddy Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” I am pleased to have joined the line of nine individuals over the last 60 years since OSFA has had an Executive Director position, who can truly say they have met this challenge: OSFA Executive Directors Andy Miller (1960-1974), Bill Liebegott (1974-1976), Louis Bunch (1976-1984), Bob Hollander (1984-1988), Jim Minx (19882006), Chris Bain (2006-2010), Herb Bradshaw (2011-2013) and Phil Ostrander (2014-2018). And soon there will be 10, as I will be retiring effective June 14 (immediately following the close of convention this year). It has been a pleasure. And you know the drill, STAY SAFE!

Governor J. Kevin Stitt Signs COLA Legislation MAY 21 -- The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association is pleased that the Legislature and Governor J. Kevin Stitt have passed HB 3350 by Avery Frix of the House and Roger Thompson of the Senate that provides a cost of living adjustment for Oklahoma Firefighters, Police, Teachers, and State Retirees. Steve Lumry said, “It was an honor to serve 30 years as a firefighter both as a volunteer and then as a career and it continues to be an honor to serve as the Executive Director of the oldest association in Oklahoma. “I know the struggles of proud retired firefighters and their widows that are my friends and colleagues who cannot afford to pay for their health insurance, medication and other necessities out of their pension checks. “This cost of living adjustment is a reasonable measure that will give them some help while helping Oklahoma’s economy. “

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COLA Bill Passes Senate MAY 15 — The Oklahoma State Firefighters Association is pleased that the Senate overwhelmingly passed the COLA for all members of the State Retirement Systems. This is a long overdue benefit that will ease a small portion of the burden of increased costs of groceries, gasoline, life saving medicine, and insurance that firefighters have had to burden on their own for far too long. Firefighters work hard for their entire careers earning less than they could to ensure that they would have a retirement benefit to take care of their families should something happen to them. They further reduced their paychecks throughout their careers to help fund their own pension, again to ensure their families will have a future. Since firefighters do not earn social security through their fire department employment, this is the only opportunity they have to keep up with the cost of living which has increased over 20% since their last COLA over 12 years ago. We are pleased that the Senate showed the compassion to protect the protectors with this COLA.

8June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

ORFA REport

Tippy Pierce Moore FD Retired I would like to thank all retired firefighters across the state of Oklahoma for the opportunity this year to serve as your ORFA President. It has had many rewarding opportunities and challenging times.I know that this new board for 2020-2021 will serve you well. I wish your new ORFA President George Fina all the best, and he will have some great new ideas that will help the retirees across this state. I’m thrilled we were able to get the COLA passed. Your ORFA and OSFA Boards, along with your Executive Director and Lobbyists worked hard to bring the COLA to you. But even though this happened, it is still not enough to repair the last 12 years with no COLAs. We will need to thank them, but we will need to get back to work on more COLAs or catch up to fix the past lost buying power. Please remember that we need to keep our Retired Chapters active. We also need to start new ones in all areas of this great state. If you think you’re too small to have a chapter, work with other fire departments. Maybe start a County Chapter. If we all work together and build the ORFA membership, this is where our power is. This will help us to be able to do more to serve you. I hope that each of you have been able to stay safe with the social distancing. It has changed how we have been able to function as the ORFA Board. We have lots of meetings over the phone and computers. This has changed everyone lives and I hope we can go back to meeting in person, but for now it is the best that we have been able to do. I hope to see you all at the ORFA Convention in Oklahoma City on June 9. God Bless each and everyone of you.

2019-2020 ORFA Executive Board PRESIDENT

Tippy Pierce, Moore • fftip@swbell.net

1ST VICE PRESIDENT

George Fina, OKC • gomsc38@gmail.com

2ND VICE PRESIDENT

A.K. “Yogi” Cole, Tulsa • ycole@ipa.net

3RD VICE PRESIDENT

James Fullingim, Norman • nfdchief@hotmail.com

PAST PRESIDENT

Juan Rodriguez, Lawton • jrod911@gmail.com

2019-2020 Women’s Auxilary Executive Board PRESIDENT

Susan Walker 580-351-4116

VICE PRESIDENT

Michele Cole 918-698-4488

JR BD MEMBER

Kendra Engle 405-630-8898

sw233821@gmail.com

momachel@aol.com

kedamo10@yahoo.com

PAST PRESIDENT

ejv97@cox.net

Erica Koch 405-308-2010

MEET ANITA HOWELL OSFA’S NEW RECEPTIONIST

Anita Howell joined the OSFA staff on May 11. Her dad, Winston Neal, served with the Oklahoma City Fire Department from 1966 to 1988 and retired as the 602 District Chief. Her brother-inlaw, Vernon “Joey” Tennill, served with the Oklahoma City Fire Department from 1984 to 2012. Her uncle, Cary Williamson, is currently the Ardmore Fire Chief. “I have been raised around firefighters my whole life, and I am always proud of my loved ones for putting their lives on the line for others,” Anita said. “They love what they do or did.” Anita, 44, graduated from Edmond Memorial High School in 1994. Prior to coming to OSFA, she was the payroll administrative assistant at Mercer Valve Co., Inc. She worked there for seven years. When asked what she is looking forward to as a member of the OSFA staff, Anita said, “To be a part of the team.”

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20834

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 20209

Question & Answers

Mark Murdock

Oklahoma Firefighter asked last issue’s readers this question:

FSIO President

“If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, what TV show would you pick?” Here is what they said: w Dan Little, Tulsa: That’s an easy one. “The Rockford Files” with James Garner (1974-1980).

w Greg Roberts, Norman Ret.: “Gunsmoke”.

w Clifford Lewis, OKC Ret.: “Life Below Zero” and “Life Below Zero: Port Protection.”

w Melanie Colvin, Lexington: “Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations.” You’d get to travel all over the world, try exotic foods and drinks and enjoy different cultures. Bourdain was a notable chef with a diverse education, who explored international cultures and their cuisine. He would have been interesting to travel and have conversations with.

w Bryan West, OSU-FST: “Last Man Standing.” I like the humor.

w Bert Norton, Midwest City: I would pick to be in “Survivor.”

w Eldon Henderson, Enid Ret.: I would choose “Seinfield” to be trapped in. So many goofy characters and even more goofy plots. Just what we need to escape for awhile right now.

w Mark Murdock, Moore: I ‘d say it would be something like “Gilligan’s Island.” As long as there’s warm sun, a beach and goofy friends!

w Mike Womack, Midwest City: I should’ve been the seventh Brady kid -the special one they kept in the attic.

w S.R. Hunter, Bethany Ret.: The only show worth being trapped in for 30 days would have to be a “National Geographic” special. Maybe ”Around the World in 30 Days.” w Juan Rodriguez, Lawton Ret.: A younger me would have picked “Gilligan’s Island” because of Ginger and Mary Ann. Then “The Big Valley” because Audrey Barkley loved me. Then it would have changed to “The Beverly Hillbillies” so Ellie May could beat me up. A few years later, I would be in “Charlie’s Angel’s getting arrested weekly by Jill Monroe. Then “Wonder Woman” (Lynda Carter), then “WKRP in Cincinnati” (Loni Andersen). Enter the ‘80s and I would be one of the regulars in “Cheers.” Nothing has replaced “Cheers.” Sorry ladies! I’m gonna be hanging with the fellas. The winner is “Cheers.” w Aaron Burns, Broken Arrow Ret.: Without a doubt “Family Guy.” Each episode is hilarious and I could see myself having a beer with the guys. Gigiddy!

w Darren Aexander, Cedar Country: “Expedition Unknown.” I’d run around with Josh Gates and have a ball.

w Trisha Chain, OSFA: I’d definitely pick “Friends.” I don’t think I’d like living in NYC, but the antics of the group would be worth it for a month. Plus, lots of coffee! w Tippy Pierce, Moore Ret.: “Chicago Fire.” w Trent Bryan, El Reno: “Fear Factor.” w Greg Lindsay, Oklahoma City: I think it would be fun to kick it with the crew on “Gilligan’s Island.” w Jeremy Goodrich, Yukon: “Hawaii 5-0.”

Next Month’s Question -“What’s the best event you’ve attended?” Everyone is Welcome to Participate! Email Your Response to penelopes@osfa.info

Moore FD

• Firedoc004@gmail.com

Lead the way! Some believe that leadership skills are not considered important unless you are a boss. I personally believe this is absolutely wrong! As soon as you became a member of the fire service, you took a leadership role within your community. Leadership in the fire department starts at the top with the Fire Chief but it doesn’t simply end there. Leadership is something that should resonate throughout a department no matter what the rank, title or position. If you are an instructor, then you have taken a vital role of leadership in your department. Perhaps you are already in a position of leadership or authority by way of promotional process or appointment. This does not automatically make you a good leader. It takes hark work and effort to make it happen. Being knowledgeable or skillful enough to pass a promotional exam or simply being the popular person doesn’t complete the leadership package. Some say that you cannot learn leadership skills -- you are either a natural born leader or you are not. I don’t believe this is true! With some people, leadership seems to come naturally, but does it? The truth is that the individual has been exposed to or taught good/bad leadership skills from their parents, teachers, coaches etc. It’s how they apply what they have been taught that sets them apart. Then there is the person who is taught the leadership skills, both good and bad, but doesn’t do a good job of applying them. Simply put, they don’t know how or when to apply the necessary leadership skills to be successful. So which category do you fall into?

w Bre Horn, Marshall: This would be a toss up for me between “Grey’s Anatomy” and “NCIS.” w Wayne Mosley, Yukon Ret.: Please don’t judge me, but I would have to pick “The Bold and Beautiful.” And yes, I have watched this soap since its introduction to TV over 35 years ago.

FSIO REPORT

Let’s take a look at some commonly agreed upon areas of good leadership skills: • Good communicator – good speaking and writing skills • Great listening skills! • Confident – not arrogant! • Knowledgeable – not a know-it-all • Modest – not boastful • Fair and ethical – not biased • Consistent • Open-minded • Patient • Trustworthy • Has positive outlook • Has vision and shares it with others

How does this list compare to that of a good instructor? Almost Identical! The number one thing listed nearly every time is good communicator. Effective interpersonal communication is a high priority. Without it you will fail. But there is hope. You can learn and improve your communication skills by learning to listen more and speaking less. Yes, I know you have to speak so that others know what you are thinking, but you can say a lot by not talking all the time, too. Body language says a lot. It’s a hard thing for some to do at first, but a very important lesson to learn nonetheless. Good communication starts by showing the listener that you are actively listening and not just hearing what they are saying. Be engaged in the conversation! A good way to identify your leadership strengths and weaknesses is to make a list of them. Next, make list of people who you believe are good and bad role models in leadership. Identify the strengths that you see in them and write them down. Now do the same with those with poor leadership skills and identify those things you believe are undesirable in leadership. It’s important to identify the bad so you can avoid it. You can learn as much from a poor leader as a good one. Don’t make the same mistakes. Self-evaluation is important, too. But you might be surprised that what you see in yourself is not always what others see in you. Ask a couple of trusted people, who you believe are good leaders, to evaluate your leadership skills, as well. They need to tell you not only your strengths but your weaknesses, too. Here’s the tricky part -- you need to be open-minded to their evaluation and don’t take it personally. It’s tough to hear the negative stuff, but it’s needed for you to make the necessary improvements. Now it is time to compare the list of desirable and non-desirable traits to your strengths and weaknesses and look for areas of improvement. There are numerous classes, books, seminars and other positive examples that we can all learn from. Learning better leadership skills never stops. It’s a life-long process. It is a continuous learning objective that is truly never completed. FSIO and other professional organizations can be great source of education to continue your journey. Until next month stay safe and remember –

LEAD WITH PASSION AND TEACH WITH A PURPOSE!

10June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

NEAR-MISS REPORT

By Greg Lindsay

The Way Things Were Change in any job is inevitable. The fire service is not immune to change, just reluctant. We have learned to do our job in a way that has proven effective over the years, and because of the dangerous nature of our jobs, we tend to want to stick to what works. It’s not hard to see why we choose to rely on our good experiences. There have been many studies identifying how firefighters make decisions. Mostly, we recognize a situation and decide on a course of action based on a previous experience; Recognition Primed Decision Making. We use the things we have seen and experiences we have used, then apply those lessons in the things we do daily. Having this skill saves time when making sound decisions quickly under pressure. For the most part, fire does not change. The things that are changing are the fuels we have in our structures. The furnishings we use are different than they were in the past, the building materials are different, and even the way we live has changed. We all know how an ordinary combustibles fire will progress. We just need to consider what the ordinary combustibles are these days and adjust our tactic to address these changes. Reluctantly, we are changing. How should we go about making these adjustments in our decision-making process? One of the things about how we work is to rely on proven practices to safely perform our job. Without the proven experiences it’s difficult to implement new tactics under pressure. Changing practices may look good on paper, but when firefighter’s lives are at risk it’s hard to elect something other than what has worked well in the past. The time to try new tactics is in a controlled training environment. The indication for trying new tactics should be before an injury occurs, but we have to understand how the tactics work in the first place. The featured report for this month uses a tactic fire companies employed 10 years ago. Before the National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST) and Underwriters Laboratory (UL) studies helped explain how different nozzle streams effected fire behavior, few departments used a transitional attack and opted for the direct method.

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Consider this report and use the outcomes to identify how we may have changed the flow of assignments in the first few minutes of an incident.

Stove fire quickly grows with help from wind Published: 12/30/2010 (http://firefighternearmiss.com/Reports?id=5220)

Companies responded for a “stove” fire. Initial reports from 911 center were, “Fire on a stove, occupant thinks fire is out.” Response time for initial companies, (two engines [heavy rescue OOS], auto-aid engine and command officer) was less than 5 min. Initial first-in report was light smoke showing. By the time the command officer jockeyed his vehicle into a good position, the report was heavy black smoke with flames out of roof. First-due engine was making the hydrant at time of first-in report. They lead out with a 1 3/4” pre-connect, performed a 360, and readied to make an attack. The engine officer reported flames out a kitchen window starting the siding and soffit area on fire. The first engine company began an initial push where they were met by thick black smoke. They were being assisted by the second engine. The ladder company was given the assignment of ventilation. Companies were inside, trying to make a push. The ladder officer was in the process of a 360, when the entire back of the house (kitchen, dinette, family room) flashed over, and the windows failed. Companies never made it further than 10” inside the front foyer. At this time, the wind began pushing the fire back inside the structure toward the companies inside. This lasted for approximately 2 minutes, until companies were pulled out by the ladder officer (C-Division) and a defensive stance was taken. Accountability checks were made. Crews brought a line around to C-Division and knocked down Division 1 fire. Lessons Learned • Fire growth was faster than anticipated due to building construction. • Weather conditions affected fire growth and travel. • Foyer was 2-story open area and wind was pushing fire towards the interior companies. • Second company needed to bring additional attack line instead of assigned S&R. • Companies moved with purpose, but speed needed to be increased.

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202011

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First Responders Self Care By Asa Don Brown, Ph.D., C.C.C., D.N.C.C.M., F.A.A.E.T.S. Member, Board of Professional and Scientific Advisors American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress Diplomate, National Center for Crisis Management Fellow, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress

meals on the go are not ideal for sustaining optimal health. Eating a well balanced and nutritious meal is a key to supporting your immune system. Be conscientious when you prepare your meals. Be certain that you are eating a well-balanced meal.

What comes to mind when you think of self-care? For many, self-care is kicked around like a soccer ball with no intended goal in mind. Self-care is the intentional pursuit to caring for one’s own mental, emotional, and physical health. During this pandemic, time has been a limited commodity for many first responders. First responders are not only maintaining their “normal” routines, but they are now being called upon to act as the frontline in this pandemic. While self-care is often touted as something to attempt or persuade people of the merits of mental health management; it is often misunderstood. Self-care is not about making yourself a psychological powerhouse, rather it is about finding a place of balance and peace. It is about the quality of your life, not necessarily the quantity of your life. Ultimately, self-care is your way with managing life’s events. Self-care does not have to be sitting in a psychologist’s office practicing breathing techniques and discussing what ails you. However, it’s important to recognize that these are unprecedented times and self-care is an essential ingredient to managing your stress. During this unprecedented time, there are various strategies that can help you cope and manage. I have reached out to a variety of colleagues and they have agreed that the following strategies will prove beneficial.

At this time, it is very easy to become sedentary in your daily activity. Physical activity is essential for living a healthy life. As a society, we are spending much less time being physically active. Of course, it does not help that the gyms, parks, tracks, and other venues are closed. You need to be creative when pursuing your physical activity.

ACKNOWLEDGE THE OBSTACLES The pandemic has many first responders working longer shifts with broader requirements. First responders are being confronted with the obstacles of being socially observant and distant; while trying to provide the necessary aide to care for someone suffering. First responders are facing a strange dichotomy: provide care and empathy unto those that they are serving, but do it in a way that you are practicing social distancing. Furthermore, first responders are being required relentless hours away from home and friends. They are being asked to work alongside colleagues, but are being reminded to keep a safe distance. Many first responders are feeling burnt out and exhausted from the constant bombardment of safe practices. Acknowledge the obstacles that you are facing. Recognize that this, too, shall pass. The long hours and the social distancing will not last forever. You, your colleagues, your friends and families will one day be brought together again. PURSUING SELF-CARE Self-care is about the pursuit of good mental and physical health. It is of critical importance that you pursue avenues that provide care to all aspects of your person. It’s about maintaining a regular routine of exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and good mental health. It is about recognizing your limitations and your strengths. The following are habits that can improve your physical and mental health: Eating a Healthy Diet There are many first responders who are typically guilty of eating poor diets. Eating fast-food meals and

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202013 Dr. Asa Don Brown is an author, international speaker, psychologist and consultant. He was born in Tulsa, attended Westmoore High School and currently lives in New York where he trains as a New York State volunteer firefighter.

Be Physically Active

Be Mindful Mindfulness is a not something that most first responders are trained to do. While first responders are becoming more and more aware of the physical strains and problems related to being a first responder; the concept of mindfulness has not become an intricate part of the first responder’s dialogue. Mindfulness is the intentional and conscientious awareness of self and one’s personal surroundings. It is through mindfulness that we are purposefully striving to live in the present moment. It is achieved through a number of mind and body techniques. There are a number of ways to achieve mindfulness, they include: • Deep Breathing Exercises: Breathing is an essential part of life, but for so many this routine has been altered. Are you breathing well? Breathing is a critical part of living a mindful life. Learn to control your breathing through daily breathing exercises. While breathing is a natural and rhythmic event, many have erratic breathing which is often caused by stress, anxieties, and developed fears. Breathing properly helps support the immune system. Deep abdominal breathing promotes full oxygenation of the body. • Daily Meditation: The purpose of meditation is to help center your mind, body, and the flow of your thoughts. Meditation is a great way to achieve mindfulness. It is through meditation that we will implement the breathing technique. It is critically important that you are comfortable and capable of being undisturbed. There are a several techniques to meditation. It is important that you find a technique that matches your personality. Most of all, meditation is about relaxing your mind, body, and spirit. When we meditate we should consider finding a place that is calm and quiet; setting a time limit; becoming aware of our body and our surroundings; capable of deep breathing; being aware and respectful when our mind does wander; and learning from this experience. Meditation is an excellent way of reducing stress, improving our mood, and bringing forth calmness and tranquility into our lives. Prioritize Sleep Sleep is an asset. Sleep deprivation occurs when we are lacking sleep or the quality of our sleep is poor or disturbed. The amount of sleep an individual requires may vary. Moreover, the amount of sleep required for an individual under extreme distress may be different than what is required during a less stressful time. There are two different stages of sleep: Rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM. When we are sleeping deeply, we are in the Non-REM cycle of sleep. When we are in a dream state, we are in a

REM cycle of sleep. The REM and Non-REM stages of sleep will cycle between 3-to-5 times throughout a typical evening. Sleep plays a critical role in repairing and maintaining your physical and cognitive self. Practice Active Listening Active listening is an essential aspect of communication. When we are practicing active listening, we are purposefully listening to the verbal and nonverbal communications of another. Avoid making judgmental statements. Active communication occurs when we are listening with all of our senses. Active listening is a key ingredient of mindfulness. Create a Routine Because we are living in a time of global uncertainty, it is important that you set a routine. Such uncertainties often create feelings of insecurity, stress, and anxiety. Establish an agenda and a schedule. Be certain that you stick to this schedule. Creating a routine creates a sense of normality and familiarity. You will feel as though you have accomplished something. Routines occur when we establish goals and priorities; establish a plan of action; and are consistent. Socially Connect Be certain that you find new ways to socially connect. After all, we are naturally social minded creatures. Social media and technology have created new ways with which we may engage with others. Have you ever considered having a dinner date or playing a board game through a Zoom call? Perhaps, you can establish a regular routine of working out with your friends. During such times, it is easy to become isolated. Do not allow yourself to isolate or avoid others. Even if you consider making an old fashion phone call; it will improve your spirits and make you feel less isolated. Identify new ways with which you may engage others. Identifying Your Triggers Everyone has a trigger that causes them to feel stress, anxiety, or intense emotions. Psychologically, triggers occur when we are experiencing a stimulus that transports us back to a particular time, place or event. The triggers may occur through a particular smell / odor, taste, sound, or memory associated with a particular stimulus. The memories associated with a trigger may be pleasant or unpleasant. It is important that you identify and acknowledge your triggers. Be mindful of when you are experiencing such triggers. Meditation, breathing and mindfulness are excellent ways with which one may manage such emotional upheavals. As a first responder, I recognize the desire to be strong, to be fit, and to think that you can manage life’s grief’s and losses alone. Do not forget that you are a part of a team. First responders are not lone players. Most of all, know that this too shall pass. The sky is not falling and life will return to normal.

14ď źJune/July 2020ď źOklahoma Firefighter

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Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202015

educational Advisory Trent Bryan

El Reno FD

Educational Advisory Committee This is typically the article where the committee chairman gives a report on how State Fire School went. Unfortunately, State Fire School is one of the many things that were on the wrong side of all the societal and governmental changes that have been implemented. The April meeting was also suspended. As we begin to return to normal, our committee plans to return in stages under the guidance of the OSFA Board. The Educational Advisory Committee will reconvene via video conference at least through our May meeting. We hope to get back on track for planning the 2020-2021 State Fire School after the next couple of meetings. The road back to normal is paved with uncertainty right now. There are so many aspects of our lives that have been negatively impacted. One of my first memories of OSFA convention was a booming voice commanding “Clear the Halls.” Richard Walts, the source of that voice, was an important part of OSFA tradition. He is one of the hardest reminders that nothing is guaranteed in life, except we will all leave it one day. We in the fire service have been hit hard during this so called “pandemic.” We have gone to work while others stayed home. Although we are used to risk-

ing our own safety for others, we risked our family’s safety when we made patient contact with inadequate or expired PPE. We dealt with constantly changing information from experts that led to us changing procedures almost daily. We addressed stress in the firehouse and at home. We tried to find time in all of this to address the stress and health of ourselves. Yet, we will endure. Is there light at the end of the tunnel? It looks that way, but how far away is that light? There are already serious signs of a significant economic depression. In my department we are already dealing with furloughs. We have been harder hit than most, but budgets are already being slashed across the state. Mental health is not in a good place, and I have seen anecdotal evidence of a significant rise in suicide. Firefighters are already at higher risk for suicide due to PTSD, and the aftermath of social distancing and other factors may increase that risk. With that being said, please look out for your brothers and sisters, and be honest with yourself. Reach out to OSFA, your department, or even me if

n www.CONRADFIRE.com n (913) 780-5521

you or someone you know is in a dark place. Is the cure worse than the disease? That remains to be seen. This will need to be a data-driven decision, and our ability to track data points on many of the factors caused by our shutdown will be difficult. This is especially true when we look at mental health. It still has a stigma, although it is an order of magnitude better than when I started in the fire service in 2008. In the end, we will probably have to make a qualitative decision rather than a quantitative one. We simply won’t have good enough numbers for a true quantitative conclusion on if shutting down the American economy is better than a different approach. I am cautiously optimistic that we can come up with a plan that addresses safety and freedom in a healthy balance that sacrifices neither. If there was any one group of individuals I would trust to come up with a workable solution, it would be firefighters!

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16June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

2020 OFCA Conference Cancelled Two weeks before the 98th OFCA Conference was to commence, it was called off due to Covid-19 concerns. Hopes were it would be rescheduled in late August, but that arrangement was not possible. So it has been officially cancelled. “It was a difficult decision, but I just kept hitting obstacles from the Covid-19 restrictions, said Bruce Anthony, Tuttle Fire Chief and 2020 OFCA President. “Lost my entertainment, lost a speaker and the banquet hall wanted us to observe social distancing for 150 people, which seemed unrealistic.” Bowling was on the agenda. So was Barry Switzer. And the host hotel was already full. The conference was loaded with lots of never-donebefore-at-the-conference events that would have had a “WOW” response. Instead, refunds will be issued and Grady County will have to wait to host its first-ever OFCA Conference.

OKC 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Sept.OKC 12, 2020 • 8 a.m. 9/11 Memorial At Leadership Square

Oklahoma’s Helicopter Search and Rescue Team at Work By Josh Pearcy, Oklahoma City FD The Helicopter Search and Rescue Team (HSART) from the Oklahoma Task Force One (OKTF-1) Urban Search & Rescue team is one of the newest assets of OKTF-1 for response in the state of Oklahoma. It is deployable through the state resource hotline from the office of Oklahoma Emergency Management (OEM). The HSART team operates through a partnership between the Oklahoma Army National Guard and OKTF-1. In total, the team is made up of 12 helicopter rescue technicians and two search team managers. These members are firefighters from the departments of Oklahoma City, Norman, Tulsa, and Verdigris. The team formed in the fall of 2017 and began training with Oklahoma Army National Guard aviation units from Lexington and Tulsa. The team members serve as helicopter rescue technicians for UH-60 Blackhawks and UH-72 Lakota’s from the Oklahoma Army National Guard. The team is trained to respond to major flood events to provide air support and aerial rescues through hoist operations. The HSART can also be used for rescues of injured victims in large remote wilderness areas of Oklahoma where Patients could be moved from the scene to another area to receive more medical treatment. The team is available 24 hours a day and can be requested through the use of the OEM resource hotline for emergency activations. For stand-by or training events, the team can also be contacted by working through the local emergency manager contact.

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OSFA Committee Sign-Up Form OSFA’s Executive Board is always looking for new people to serve on committees and will make appointments at the June or July Board Meeting. Committee members must have the time to serve and have approval from their employer’s superior officer. Meetings normally last two hours. Committee members traveling over 50 miles round trip receive 55 cents per mile and $5 for lunch. If you would like to serve on a committee, please fill out this form and either put it in the box at the head table during Saturday’s OSFA Convention meeting or mail it to the OSFA Office, 2716 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73111. NAME:________________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT:_________________________________________________

oPAID

oVOLUNTEER

PHONE:______________ EMAIL:_________________________________ Please indicate which committee is suited to your interest: LEGISLATIVE MEMORIAL

EDUCATIONAL ADVISORY

VOLUNTEER FIRE SERVICE

SAFETY & HEALTH

FINANCIAL ADVISORY

PUBLIC EDUCATION

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Oklahoma Firefighterď źJune/July 2020ď ź17

GEAR UP for the 24th Annual David Bain Oklahoma Fallen & Living Firefighters Memorial Golf Tournament Items at left are available online now -- extras (if any) will be available for sale on the day of the tournament

David Bain A few months before the 2012 Memorial Golf Tournament, the OSFA Executive Board voted unanimously to rename it the David Bain Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial Golf Tournament in honor of the man who kick started the Memorial fundraising campaign. David Bain, who succumbed to cancer in 2003 at age 47, spent 22 years on the Midwest City Fire Department. He served in many roles at OSFA, including 1996 OSFA President, Memorial Committee Chairman and Director of Administration.

18June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

Fire Departments Honored for being OS By Penelope Soldan Oklahoma Firefighter Managing Editor

Membership dues for the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association are still coming in, but the current count of members is 517 Fire Departments and Fire Protection Districts. And all 517 are listed on the cover. All total, 693 FDs and FPDs have been OSFA members at one time or another. Some, unfortunately, no longer exist. And 92 have been OSFA members for 100 years or more.

At the 125th OSFA Convention last year in Ponca City, 87 FDs were awarded the 100 Years award for continued membership. Those departments are listed at right. The photos above and below feature representatives of those departments who were on hand to accept the award in person. A total of 41 did so. Departments unable to attend convention received a visit from OSFA staff and a personal plaque presentation. Some FDs even made the plaque the center of a nice display (Perry FD’s display is at right).

Five more FDs will join the 100 Years rank at the 126th OSFA Convention June 11-13 in Oklahoma City. Those FDs are Broken Arrow, Hartshorne, Medford, Sand Springs and Tishomingo.

OSFA Past President Dereck Cassady introduced all the recipients of the inaugural 100 Year awards last year. Here are a few items of interest he shared with the 2019 convention attendees: A new award that was come up with by the Executive Board this year is the 100 Year Award. We got to looking around, it’s the 125th Annual Convention, we have members that have been members since Day One and we have a lot of departments that have been members for 100 continuous years. There’s quite a few of them, so we’re going to try to get through

them fairly quickly. If there is a representative from that department here, when we call your department name, if you’ll come up front, we will get a picture of you with the award. Just a quick explanation. We tried to get something we hope that you would be proud of, that you would be able to display in your fire station to remind your fire department members that you have been members of the association for so long. They’re not overly extravagant because we tried to be as frugal with your dues as we can, but we wanted to make them nice enough that you would be proud to display. • El Reno Fire Department. As you will note at the bottom of the slide, it says they are a Charter Member of OSFA. OSFA was founded in 1894 in El Reno and they got Oklahoma City to sign on very quickly and then Guthrie. Those three members are the Charter Members of the OSFA and others started joining quickly thereafter. If you weren’t aware, we originally were an all volunteer association because even Oklahoma City, El Reno, Guthrie -all of them were volunteers back then and transitioned over the years. • Eufaula Fire Department. I’m also not sure if there is another department, other than Eufaula, that is so proud to be an OSFA member. They have OSFA patches embroidered on their shirts, their caps and their jackets. They are very big supporters and they work hard to serve on our committees and we appreciate them, so you can’t tell me that a volunteer department can’t participate. Obviously we were about 25 years overdue because we had nearly 100 departments that have been members for 100 years, and that’s what makes this organization great. For those of you who were able to make the drive, we appreciate you being here. We hope you have a little bit of time to mingle and talk to people and see what this organization is about and make those contacts and make those connections, because it will help you in every aspect of what you do, and that’s what we’re here for.

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202019

SFA Members for 100 Continuous Years

OKLAHOMA FIRE DEPARTMENTS RECEIVING 100 YEAR AWARDS AT 2019 OSFA CONVENTION Altus Alva Anadarko Antlers Ardmore Atoka Bartlesville Blackwell Bristow Caddo

Chandler Checotah Chickasha Claremore Clinton Coalgate Collinsville Cushing Davis Duncan

Durant El Reno Elk City Enid Eufaula Fairfax Fairview Frederick Geary Guthrie

Guymon Healdton Henryetta Hinton Hobart Holdenville Hollis Hugo Idabel Kiefer

Kingfisher Lawton Madill Mangum Marietta McAlester Miami Morris Muskogee Newkirk

Norman Oilton Oklahoma City Okmulgee Pauls Valley Pawhuska Perry Ponca City Poteau Purcell

Ringling Roff Sallisaw Sapulpa Sayre Shawnee Skiatook Snyder Stillwell Stroud Stillwater Sulphur Tahlequah

Thomas Tonkawa Tulsa Vinita Wagoner Watonga Waurika Waynoka Weatherford Wilburton Woodward Wynnewood Yale

20June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

Museum news Gene Brown Museum Director geneb@osfa.info 405-424-3440

Hello Everyone! Lots going on here at the museum! Although we have been closed to the public, we have been busy. We have been working on new displays, the Memorial, the 54 Ward La France, and a whole lot of cleaning. We will, however, still be closed to the public until at least June 17. The OSFA Board will meet to decide when we will reopen. The Memorial is looking much better. We have removed all the evergreen trees around the Memorial. It looks so much better. We are also working on the lights in the Memorial walls. We hope to complete those in the next two weeks. The 54 Ward LaFrance is running now. We still have a ways to go, but we are making progress. The ride to Remember was postponed until September. We look forward to having them back. Please make plans to attend, as this is a great fund raiser for the Museum. Our fundraising is down this year due to the Women’s Softball College World Series being cancelled. We are still planning to have the Memorial Golf Tournament, and it is set for Sept. 16 at Lincoln Park West Golf Course (4001 NE Grand Blvd). Please plan to come and support your Memorial. Here’s thanking you in advance for your support. Stay Safe! Top Right:

Museum staff hard at work keeping the Memorial grounds looking great.

Bottom Right: Museum archivist Bob Noll giving an in-depth Museum tour for OSFA staff.

Help support your Oklahoma Firefighters Museum Expansion and the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial PURCHASE AN OKLAHOMA FIREFIGHTER LICENSE TAG! Money received from the purchase of each tag goes directly to financing upkeep on the Oklahoma Fallen and Living Firefighters Memorial and Oklahoma Firefighters Museum. Oklahoma Firefighter tags cost $35 a year (on top of regular tag fees) and $20 goes directly to the Museum/Memorial. Tags can be purchased from local tag agents any time during the year -- not just with your regular plate. And they can be customized to 6 letters as approved by the Tax Commission.

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202021

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22June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

NFPA REPORT

Bob Sullivan

Public Education Advisory Committee Updates

bsullivan@nfpa.org • 720-237-1752

National Fire Protection Assoc. SW Regional Director 2020 Firefighter Safety Stand Down Hello OSFA! While COVID-19 will probably be with us for a while, it seems like we’re turning the corner and starting to see improvement, as the number of cases continues to decline, and states are starting to re-open businesses. There aren’t enough “Thank You’s” to go around to thank all of you for your efforts on the front lines during this pandemic, and I’m sure all of you have felt the appreciation of the residents in your communities, and that appreciation is very well-deserved! And speaking of being on the front lines, there are other topics that also deserve equal focus and attention that affect firefighter safety every day. Firefighters operate in dangerous environments all the time, and one of the most dangerous environments (if not just about THE most dangerous environment) nowadays is operating at traffic accidents, fires, medical emergencies, and other types of problems on today’s roadways and highways. As technology continues to rapidly advance, today’s drivers are more distracted than ever before with cell phones and other mobile electronic devices, and new features on vehicles that give the vehicles some self-driving capabilities that might be relied upon too heavily by their drivers. All these factors add up to situations where drivers are often not paying attention to the road in front of them, and firefighters and other emergency workers are being struck, injured and killed on a regular basis at emergency scenes on the nation’s highways. To help focus the attention of the Fire Service on this issue, this year’s theme for the 2020 Firefighter Safety Stand Down during the week of June 14-20, 2020 is: “Building a Superhighway to Safety – Protecting our Responders on Roadways.” During this week, all fire departments are encouraged to suspend all non-emergency activities and concentrate their attention on education and training related to this topic. There is a wealth of resources

n Oklahoma Public Education Summit 2021

available to help. On the NFPA website, a good starting place is by clicking on (or manually entering in your web browser) this link: www.nfpa.org/fireservicequiz , which will take you to the “2020 Fire Service Safety Stand Down Quiz” Sweepstakes. This online interactive quiz is hosted by NFPA in coordination with the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). It includes questions which talk about firefighter safety information in the following standards: NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety, Health, and Wellness Program (Chapter 9 – Traffic Incident Management), and NFPA 1091, Standard for Traffic Incident Management Personnel Professional Qualifications. These standards can be viewed for free on the NFPA website. There are also questions in the quiz related to the Federal Highway Administration’s “Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)”, at: https:// mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/pdfs/2009r1r2/pdf_index.htm . On that page, look for the link to download a copy of the current edition (2009) of this manual. In the manual, the information related to emergency highway incidents is in Section 6I, Control of Traffic Through Traffic Incident Management Areas, on Page 726 of the document. Other websites for information include www.safetystanddown.org , and www.respondersafety.com, which both provide numerous training and information resources, articles, data and statistics, videos, public education materials, and links to other related websites regarding traffic safety. During Firefighter Safety Stand Down Week, please consider investing some time and training in topics related to firefighter safety at roadway emergency scenes. As always, feel free to contact me if I can assist in any way with finding the appropriate resources, and stay safe out there on the highways!

After a successful 2020 Public Education Summit held March 6 in Bethany, the Public Education Advisory Committee has begun preparations for Summit 2021 to be held in the Tulsa area. Stay tuned for updates!

n Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 4-10

The 2020 theme will be announced June 1. To find out what theme was selected, go online to www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Fire-Prevention-Week

n NFPA Responds to Coronavirus

As the threat of coronavirus (COVID-19) grows, it is critical to have the information you need to help mitigate impacts and protect your community. One resource can be found online at www.nfpa. org/Codes-and-Standards/Resources/Standards-inaction/NFPA-responds-to-the-coronavirus

Resources from NVFC’s Share The Load Program (www.nvfc.org/help)

n Reset and Recharge: How to Manage Stress in Uncertain Times – Recorded webinar that discusses strategies responders can use to manage stress and anxiety and to be there for each other during these uncertain times. n Behavioral Health: Understand the Risks and Know the Signs – This video encourages responders to know the signs of behavioral health issues and when to get help. n Suicide Prevention: Talking to a Responder in Need: This video provides tips on how to talk to a firefighter or EMS provider in need of help.

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Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202023

fire service training

Dana Mugavero dmugavero@frsupport.net It’s well known in the fire service, “we take care of our own.” Over the years, I’ve been astonished by the level of generosity bestowed upon a firefighter or their family in need. The massive response in the form of meals, chores and shift coverage will leave you speechless and in awe. This is one of the privileges of being part of such an extraordinary and unique group, being a firefighter. And, as we’ve seen or experienced in life, a strength or good quality, in excess may become a detriment. At times, attempts to assist a firefighter in need will morph into enabling and we may miss opportunities to make a difference with someone that may be struggling. If we’re not careful, our “taking care of” may inadvertently support them right to the edge of the cliff. We enable when we ignore or cover for infidelity, excess drinking or gaps in performance. It’s never with malintent however, the enabling you provide may allow the train to gain momentum without realizing it’s on a collision course. In the realm of substance abuse, an enabler is defined as a person who facilitates the self-destructive behavior of another (www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ enable). Truly “taking care of” a brother or sister firefighter that may be on a path of destruction means having the courage yourself to have difficult conversations and confront him or her. And, I don’t mean just a few attempts. I’m talking about staying consistent with them over time, being vigilant to follow-up on conversations, not allowing yourself to become too busy or distracted. Most of you know exactly whom and what I’m talking about. However, some of the most common warning signs include changes in mood (increased tension, irritability, solemn), attitude (pessimistic, loss of enjoyment in the fire service, increasingly critical) and behavior (missing or slacking at work, withdrawal, increased substance use, or extreme overwork). You don’t have to know what to say, just say something! And, keep on them. If you’re not sure what to do, elicit assistance from someone else that knows and cares about this firefighter. Do not gossip. Choose wisely whom you involve in your concern and be intentional about creating a plan to intervene. Contact a peer support member near you or a therapist if things have reached an overwhelming level. Don’t worry about being wrong, that’s typically just an excuse to get us off the hook because addressing these issues with someone may feel intimidating. It’s time to really, “take care of our own”

Guest Contributor NOTE: OSU-FST Director Caroline Reed reached out to Dana Mugavero for this month’s report that touches on mental health issues in Oklahoma. Dana is Director of First Responder Support Services, PLLC in Tulsa. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing professional counseling since 1995. For nearly 15 years, Dana has provided counseling, training and critical incident response exclusively to public safety personnel and their immediate family members.

in a way that makes a difference when things are not so clear but when one of our own needs your help. In addition to First Responder Support Services, PLLC at 918-749-0034 you may find these additional resources helpful: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Center for Excellence https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com 1-855-900-8437 Confidential hotline that answers calls 24 hours a day. Safe Call Now www.safecallnow.org (206) 459-3020 Safe Call Now was established in April 2009 in the hopes that no other officer, first responder or public safety employee should have to walk through a crisis alone. The program allows for confidential, crisis referral 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls are answered by public safety personnel and mental health professionals who are familiar with your line of work. Serve & Protect www.serveprotect.org (615) 373-8000 Serve and Protect is committed to connecting public safety professionals with mental health, trauma, and chemical dependency care. Phone calls are answered by police officers, retired officers, chaplains and mental health providers who are familiar with public safety. Veterans Crisis Line www.veteranscrisisline.net 1-800-273-8255 Veterans Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support to Veterans and their loved ones. Any Veteran or service member regardless of VA healthcare enrollment status or their discharge status can access this service. The Veterans Crisis Line is able to provide referrals to local crisis supports. Sober www.sober.com Sober.com is an online resource to connect people with AA, NA, AL-ANON meetings as well as inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment.

24June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

www.osufst.org

1723 West Tyler, Stillwater, OK 74078 • (800) 304-5727 • (405) 744-5727 • Fax: (405) 744-7377

June / July 2020 CLASS SCHEDULE Current as of May 20, 2020

Courses are subject to change • Call or check online for changes in courses

All courses are FREE unless otherwise noted

Foundations of Emergency Management (76368) June 1-5 (40 hours) Pittsburg Co. Emergency Mgmt - McAlester

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (77134) June 4 (8 hours) Ada Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76558) June 1 (8 hours) Muskogee Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (76790) June 5-7 (24 hours) Cleveland Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75864) June 2 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department

Swiftwater Rescue Operations (77333) June 6-7 (16 hours) • $3400 - All Participants Salina Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76559) June 2 (8 hours) Muskogee Fire Department

Confined Space Rescue Technician Level I & II (78314) June 6-7 (16 hours) Jenks Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76561) June 2 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician for WMDHazMat Emergencies (76747) June 8-19 (80 hours) Great Plains Technology Center - Lawton

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (77132) June 2 (8 hours) Ada Fire Department

Industrial Fire: 40 Hour NFPA 1081 Advanced Exterior Facility Fire Brigade Member (76847) June 8-12 (40 hours) • $12000 - All Participants OSU/FST/FESTC

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75865) June 3 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76560) June 3 (8 hours) Muskogee Fire Department

Pipeline Awareness for Emergency Responders (78214) June 8 (4 hours) Piedmont Fire Department Flammable Gas Emergencies (LPG) (77827) June 13 (12 hours) Chickasha Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76562) June 3 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Awareness for WMDHazMat Emergencies (78299) June 13 (8 hours) Green Country Technology Center - Okmulgee

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (77133) June 3 (8 hours) Ada Fire Department

Vehicle Rescue Technician Level I Part A (78317) June 13-14 (16 hours) High Plains Technology Center - Woodward

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75866) June 4 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department

Confined Space Rescue Technician Level I & II (78319) June 13-14 (16 hours) Weatherford Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (76563) June 4-July 1 (8 hours) Ardmore Fire Department

Certification: Hazardous Materials Operations (76792) June 14 (8 hours) Cleveland Fire Department

Science of Disaster (76367) June 15-17 (16 hours) Pittsburg Co. Emergency Mgmt - McAlester Trench Rescue Technician Level II (76745) June 15-16 (16 hours) Shawnee Fire Department Confined Space Rescue Technician Level I & II (78322) June 17-18 (16 hours) Blackwell Fire Department Planning: Emergency Operations (76369) June 18-19 (16 hours) Pittsburg Co. Emergency Mgmt - McAlester EMS Instructor Workshop / Bridge (78265) June 18 (8 hours) • $750 - All Participants OSU-FST Classroom - Stillwater Hazardous Materials Operations: Core Competencies (78294) June 19-21 (24 hours) Green Country Technology Center - Okmulgee Hazardous Materials Decontamination OK-RRS Basic Operation (75867) June 20 (6 hours) Guymon Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (78343) June 27 (8 hours) Kingfisher Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75871) June 29 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75872) June 30 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75873) July 1 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Department Fire Officer I: NFPA 1021, 2014 Edition (78120) July 6-10 (48 hours) • $3000 - All Participants El Reno Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75949) July 7 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department

Flammable Gas Emergencies (LPG) (78340) June 20 (12 hours) Weatherford Fire Department

Emergency Services Instructor (Instructor I) (77940) July 7-10 (32 hours) • $3000 - All Participants Northwest Rogers County FPD - Oologah

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (77022) June 22 (8 hours) Yukon Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75950) July 8 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part B (75868) June 24 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75951) July 9 (8 hours) Sapulpa Fire Department

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part B (75869) June 25 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department

Certification: Fire Officer I (77944) July 10 (8 hours) Northwest Rogers County FPD - Oologah

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part B (75870) June 26 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department Rope Rescue Technician Level I Part A (76739) June 27-28 (16 hours) Weatherford Fire Department

Rope Rescue Technician Level 1 Part B (76740) July 11-12 (16 hours) Weatherford Fire Department Certification: Fire Fighter I (78047) July 11 (8 hours) Tulsa Fire Safety Training Center

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202025

www.osufst.org June / July 2020 CLASS SCHEDULE continued HNW_NRG_A_Bleed_Mask_GS_Op2

Courses are subject to change • Call or check online for changes in courses

All courses are FREE unless otherwise noted

Trench Rescue Technician Level I (78369) July 11-12 (16 hours) Blackwell Fire Department Introduction to Farm Rescue (78379) July 11 (8 hours) Piedmont Fire Department Fire Fighter I Live Burn (78049) July 12 (8 hours) Dewey Fire Department Basic Response to Grain Handling Hazards (78378) July 12 (8 hours) Piedmont Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75952) July 13 (8 hours) Shawnee Fire Department HSEEP (76371) July 13-14 (16 hours) Pittsburg Co Emergency Mgmt - McAlester Emergency Services Instructor (Instructor I) (78268) July 13-16 (32 hours) • $3000 - All Participants Quapaw Tribe Fire / EMS Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75953) July 14 (8 hours) Shawnee Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75984) July 15 (8 hours) Shawnee Fire Department Public Information and Warning (76370) July 15-16 (16 hours) Pittsburg Co Emergency Mgmt - McAlester Swiftwater Rescue Operations (78380) July 18-19 (16 hours) • $3600 - All Participants Broken Bow Fire Department Curriculum Development (Instructor II) (78337) July 20-23 (32 hours) • $2500 - Oklahoma Emergency Responders • $4000 - Out-of-state Public Responders Claremore Fire Department

Swiftwater Technician Level II (78381) July 20-21 • $3500 - All Participants Broken Bow Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75987) July 21 (8 hours) McAlester Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (75995) July 21 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75988) July 22 (8 hours) McAlester Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (75996) July 22 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75990) July 23 (8 hours) McAlester Fire Department Hazardous Materials Operations for WMD Refresher (75997) July 23 (8 hours) Enid Fire Department Calling the MAYDAY (77745) July 24 (8 hours) • $850 - All Participants Claremore Fire Department

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Proud to sponsor the 126th OSFA Convention

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Investment Solutions RBC Global Asset Management is honored to sponsor the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association RBC Global Asset Management provides institutional clients with investment solutions to help achieve their goals in ever-changing financial markets. Our commitment to providing investment excellence, with a strong focus on risk management and exemplary client service, is central to all that we do.

Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75991) July 28 (8 hours) Sand Springs Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75993) July 29 (8 hours) Sand Springs Fire Department Hazardous Materials Technician Refresher Part A (75994) July 30 (8 hours) Sand Springs Fire Department

John Utter Head of Institutional Client Service Tel: 612-376-7187 john.utter@rbc.com RBC Global Asset Management (RBC GAM) is the asset management division of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and comprises the following affiliates, all of which are indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of RBC: RBC Global Asset Management (U.S.) Inc. (RBC GAMUS), RBC Global Asset Management Inc., RBC Global Asset Management (UK) Limited (RBC GAM-UK), BlueBay Asset Management LLP, BlueBay Asset Management USA LLC and the asset management division of RBC Investment Management (Asia) Limited. ®/™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. © 2019 RBC Global Asset Management (U.S.) Inc.

26June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

Chaplain’s corner Chuck McDade

Midwest City FD Chaplain

Looking for a New Normal When someone goes through a critical incident, life seldom

returns to “normal.” Instead, we find ourselves looking for a “new” normal in life. As I look back over the last nine months, our nation has been beset with insanity in Washington. Then a pandemic that brought this great nation to it’s knees. Local and state governments ordered everyone to shelter in place. In one state, an individual was arrested for kayaking by himself out on the ocean! When this latest hit to our sanity passes, I wonder what the new normal will look like. Will the new normal be abnormal? I know that I am sounding a little cynical. Some days I admit to feeling uneasy about our country and those we are depending on to keep this nation a place to raise our families. Then I turn off the media and I look around to see people helping one another, and I find that there is a ton of good to be found if we only look for it. Another anchor in the shifting sands of these times is love. Yes, I find it reassuring to know that regardless of my circumstances, there is someone who truly loves me. Those of you who know me would quickly say, “Of

page to Ponder

course, Linda loves you.” And, I would just as quickly agree. She has stuck with me for 51 plus years, though I have to admit there have been some days when she felt hard pressed to say those three all important words. However, I was referring to Someone who has been saying “I love you” every day of my life -- good days and bad. There are days when I can walk with head held high and days when I am too embarrassed to look up. His love has never wavered and it never will. I want you to know that He loves you just as much as He loves me. God is constant and His love for us is not based on our performance. Forget what the world is doing. No matter how crazy the world seems to get, God loves His creation. If you want to know how much, start with John 3:16 in the New Testament. From there, go to Romans 5:8. The New Testament is filled with verses that speak of His love for us. If you have yet to experience His love, I invite you to give it a try. In a world that is more than a little crazy, it’s great to know there is still love. And if you want a little peace, try Romans 5:1.

Ron Middleswart Broken Arrow FD Good morning Oklahoma Firefighters! I know we are considered essential workers. I know we take care of people. But have you noticed how many people have been taking care of us? People have been taking care of us by making masks, delivering food to the stations and other random acts of kindness. Please take the time to thank those people. Remember we are servants of the public. We entered the fire service because we have a willingness to serve.

To post prayer requests and find up-to-date information on the Oklahoma Fire Chaplains, go to www.okfirechaplains.org.

LGT is a proud sponsor of OSFA’s 126th Annual Convention Proud supporter of the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association Visit us at beutelgoodman.com

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202027

Honoring excellence, hard work, and dedication. PIMCO, a global provider of market insights and investment solutions, is proud to support the Oklahoma State Fireﬁghters Association and to honor the dedication and service of its active and retired members.

28June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Chase Rankin

n MEETING (April 17, 2020) Members Online: Mike Kelley, Eric Harlow, Jim Ed Nimmo, Cliff Davidson, Dana Cramer, Brent Baggett, Brent Bryant, Tippy Pierce, Janet Kohls, Dereck Cassady, Matt Lay, Ron Kreiter. Member Absent: Brandy Manek. Others Online: Chase Rankin, Executive Director; Marc Edwards, Legal Counsel; Troy Brown, Tim Nash and Tony Kay & CO; Greg Zavoyna, Brandywine; David Lubchenco, Brian Bitner, and Haicheng, Li: Chautauqua; John Karl, WCM, and Bob McMahon. Steven E. Gales/Blackwell - Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Lay and seconded by Bryant to modify the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, to “Service”, effective April 1,2020: Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried. Loren D. Palmer/Broken Arrow – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Cassady to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes; Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried. Kyle D. Barton/Oklahoma City Application For Disability In The Line Of Duty” Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Cramer and Davidson to approve the Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried. Evan Fenton/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Davidson and seconded by Cramer to approve the “Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried Richard G. Fulton/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Cramer and sec-

onded by Baggett to modify the “Application for “Disability in the Line, to “Service” effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried Lesley C. Norman/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Davidson and seconded by Cramer to approve the “Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried Bryan Steffes/Oklahoma City – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Davidson to approve the “Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried Gary D. Billups/Tulsa – Application For “Disability In The Line Of Duty Pension, Effective April 1, 2020: Motion was made by Lay and seconded by Cramer to approve the “Application for “Disability in the Line of Duty”, effective April 1, 2020. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried Richard Scroggins/Oklahoma City - Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Baggett to approve the request of Scroggins to modify from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty”. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried. Kenneth Gibbens/Tulsa - Request To Modify Pension From “Service” To “Disability In The Line Of Duty”: Motion was made by Cramer and seconded by Lay to approve the request of Gibbens to modify from “Service” to “Disability in the Line of Duty. Ayes: Kelley, Davidson, Lay, Baggett, Cramer, Cassady, Harlow, Kohls, Lay, Nimmo and Pierce. Nayes: None. Motion carried.

Member Services Coordinator

Terri Williams

Executive Director

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

Martha Pierce Vicki Mulbery

Executive Secretary

Accounts Payable Administrator

Than Dinh

Thelisha Clark

Tim Van Horn

Controller

Assistant Director (CFO)

Keely Swonger

Records Administrator

Latoya Battle

Assistant Controller

Data Processor

n CONSENT AGENDA (April 17, 2020) $5,000.00 DEATH BENEFIT: Boswell Clinton Clinton Clinton Colcord Dill City Drummond Drummond Enid Enid Garber Holdenville Hugo Hulbert Laverne Lawton Mustang Shawnee Tulsa Wellston

Jackie Clay, Widow Of John V. Clay Marty L. Byrd, Child Of Bob R. Byrd Donna Warnick, Child Of Bob R. Byrd Bob Brent Byrd, Child Of Bob R. Byrd Wasson Funeral On Behalf Of William W. Crites Affordable Cremation On Behalf Of Terrell D. Cox Michelle Walther, Child Of Lowell F. Bees Terri L. Blair, Child Of Lowell F. Bees Dan Elliott, Child Of Robert L. Elliott Joe P. Elliott, Child Of Robert L. Elliott Patsy McDoniel, Widow Of Malcolm McDoniel Hudson-Phillips Funeral On Behalf Of Andrew Peerson Mary N. Mathis, Widow Of Danny S. Mathis Charlene Craig, Widow Of Sidney K. Craig Sue Mitchell, Child Of Cecil R. Mitchell John T. Schroeder, Child Of John M. Schroeder Alice W. McCracken, Widow Of Billy H. McCracken Carmen Renee Steward, Widow Of Tony W. Steward Moore Funeral Home On Behalf Of Charles F. Childers Jeanne B. Ayes, Widow Of Thomas D. Yates

APPLICATION FOR SERVICE PENSION: 05/24/2020 04/06/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 03/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020

Antlers Blanchard Enid Gould Lookeba McAlester McAlester Muskogee Noble NW Rogers Wainwright Yukon

CHECKS TERMINATED IN APRIL 2020 (Deceased): Amber Ames Bethel Acres Billings Carmen Cheyenne Dill City Drummond Duncan Eufaula Geary Minco Midwest City Oklahoma City Quapaw Rocky Sentinel Wyandotte

Sharan Kennedy Dixie Moore Arnold G. Gaddy Danny Ketts Phillip D. Gregg Della M. Andrews Terrall Cox Lowell F. Bees Alma J. Brinegar Emma Jones Hazel Carrick Minnie Davis William R. Cox Clarence E. Jones Richard L. Taconis Cleve Hill Alberta N. Sell Linda Butterfield

APPLICATION FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE PENSION SYSTEM:

Marvin L. Smith Chad E. Hughes William W. Moss Jr, Burk L. Billington Larry W. Clear Rodney P. Ragan Bobby R. Tucker Orin K. Weant Chalres N. Harmon Guy M. Kerr Michael W. Guthrie Jimmy P. White

Blackwell Dakota Sprague Frederick Cody Middick Guymon Brenton Forman Limestone Kolten Minor Tonkawa Will McEntire Walters Michael Edgmon Wewoka William Gibson

APPLICATION FOR VESTED BENEFIT: 09/29/2027 12/20/2018 03/15/2040

Cromwell Healdton Stillwater

Kenneth Farris Robert D. Aycox Trenton D. Mitchell

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE: 04/28/2020

Oklahoma City

Rebecca Spencer, Widow Of Todd Spencer (Deceased 04/27/2020)

APPLICATION FOR SURVIVING SPOUSE FOR CONTINUATION: 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020 05/01/2020

Hugo Shawnee Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Wellston

Mary N. Mathis, Widow Of Danny S. Mathis Carmen R. Steward, Widow Of Tony W. Steward Charlene Gibbs, Widow Of Ray D. Dawson Deborah Green, Widow Of Eddie D. Green Judy Tumleson, Widow Of George A. Tumleson Jeanne B. Yates, Widow Of Thomas D. Yates Sr.

REFUND OF CONTRIBUTIONS: Jarrett Underwood Clayton T. Humble Landon F. Middleton

Broken Bow Lawton Idabel

Hired

06/06/2006 10/07/2019 05/08/2006

Terminated 12/31/2014 03/11/2020 03/16/2020

NEW COUNTY AND/OR CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT ENTERING THE PENSION SYSTEM: Limestone FPD

Oklahoma Firefighterď źJune/July 2020ď ź29

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30June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

OSFA Executive Board Highlights

Roll Call: Mike Kelley, present; Eric Harlow, video; Cliff Davidson, video; Jim Ed Nimmo, video; Dereck Cassady, present; Tippy Pierce (ORFA), present. Others: Steve Lumry, Gene Brown by video, Trisha Chain, Eric Hamilton, Don Armes by video, Julia Jernigan-Smith by video. Correspondence: Thank you cards from Sandy Thompson, Sara Chain and the Osborne family; invitation to the 25th Annual Remembrance Ceremony. Committee Reports: Board consensus reached in favor of cancelling all remaining committee meetings for the remainder of the committee year, excluding the Educational Advisory Committee. Museum Report: Brown Staff completed some maintenance projects before the Museum was closed to employees, including fixing lights, polishing plaques, and Memorial pool maintenance. Staff also built four display stands for use in the Museum. Museum Expansion Committee: Lumry Lumry and Brown attended a conference call with Hudiburg and will provide flyers to advertise the new donation program that will donate $200 to the expansion project for every Hudiburg vehicle sold to a firefighter. Legislative Report: Armes, Jernigan-Smith The legislature will try to meet in May to discuss only budget and priority bills.

April 16, 2020

Armes and Jernigan-Smith agreed that the explanation video Pension Director Chase Rankin created that was posted on OSFA social media was a well-timed and informative video. Lumry sent a list of legislative candidates to board members; once the session closes, he will be sharing with members how legislators voted on issues that are being tracked.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Volunteer Recruitment & Retention Report: Lumry Training is at a standstill, but OSU FST will begin training with precautions after May 1.

June 10-13, 2020 88th OSFA Women’s Auxiliary Convention in Oklahoma City

NVFC Report: Davidson NVFC has started a program to help volunteers who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19.

Sept.16, 2020 24th David Bain Memorial Golf Tournament at Lincoln Park West Golf Course

OFCA Report: Lumry The OFCA Conference has been rescheduled to August 12-14, and the Board will host an open meeting next week to elect a new 3rd Vice President. ORFA Report: Pierce All operations have been shut down up to the annual Convention.

June 9, 2020 39th ORFA Convention in Oklahoma City June 10-13, 2020 126th OSFA Convention in Oklahoma City

conducted after opening the office; the State Fire School has been rescheduled for May 13-16, 2021; cosponsor updates on federal bills discussed. Board consensus reached for staff to be approved to resume duties, with keeping operations closed to the public until at least the next Board meeting.

We are proud to sponsor the

Executive Director’s Report: Lumry OSFA membership: 489 departments (82%), 2 new (Pershing and Sugden) with 10,420 members. ORFA membership 4,393; Brent Hatcher membership 156; digital Oklahoma Firefighter 938 subscriptions. The fundraiser game through Energy Soccer will most likely be cancelled; receptionist interviews will be

COVID-19 Concerns: Board discussed Convention plans and concerns and decided to reconvene at a special meeting May 7 via video conference to make a final decision.

Oklahoma State Firefighters Association th We are proud to sponsor the 126 Annual Convention. Adjourned: 10:11 a.m. Special meeting: May 7 by video conference.

Oklahoma State We are proud to sponsor the Firefighters Association Oklahoma State th 126 Firefighters Annual Convention. Association 126th Annual Convention.

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Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202031

32June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

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Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202033

n OKLAHOMA FIRE SPOTLIGHT BY GREG ROBERTS

OWASSO FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire Chief: David Hurst FD formed: 1948 Joined OSFA: 1965

Norman FD Retired

If you would like to see your FD featured in a future issue of Oklahoma Firefighter, contact Greg Roberts at 405-424-1452 or groberts1960@gmail.com

Personnel: 61 uniformed, 5 admin. ISO rating: 3x Population: 37,000 (Approx.) Fire district square miles: 48 EMS district square miles: 76 Number of calls: 5,600 (Average) Stations: 4 Brushpumpers: 4 Medic Units: 4 Engines: 3 Tankers: 1 Ladders: 2 Owasso gets its name from an Osage word meaning “End of the Trail” or “Turn Around.” In the 1890s, the railroad built a line extending south from Bartlesville that ended in a turn-around Y near the Owasso Train Depot.

Owasso FD Station 1

OFD Training Center

Owasso Fire Chief David Hurst E-3 2010 Pierce 1500 pump/750 tank

Owasso FD Station 3

T-2 2013 International/KME 500 pump/2100 tank

Owasso FD Station 2

Battalion 1

Tower 4 2018 Pierce 2000 pump/400 tank/100’ ladder

34June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter

OSFA Snapshots

Got something going on at your Fire Department? Share the news! Email photos to osfa@osfa.info

Receiving new bunker gear for fulfilling the

requirements of the OSFA’s SAFER grant were, left to right & top to bottom, Meno FD, Orlando FD, Vinita FD, Olustee FD, Piedmont FD, Ravia

FD, Bristow FD, Kellyville FD and Tiawah FD.

These communities will be better served with well trained volunteers.

Seeing You Around If you are out and about and see a firefighter car tag, snap a pic of it with your smart phone and email it to osfa@osfa.info or send it to an OSFA staff member. We don’t need an exact location, just a city or neighborhood. Spotted on Route 66 in Claremore

Spotted on I-35

Oklahoma FirefighterJune/July 202035

in memoriam Harry Brown, Esquire

Wayne Steely, Norman FD

The Final Fire Alarm sounded for OSFA Honorary Life Member Harry Brown on May 11. He was 89. Harry was also a former OSFA parliamentarian, OFCA Honorary Member and ORFA Honorary Member. He was always a great supporter of the OSFA and was known to assist with pro bono legal advise from

time to time. At the 100th OSFA Covention in 1994, Harry appeared as Judge John H. Pitzer of El Reno, who gave the first Address of Welcome in 1894. He was dressed in period clothing and read the original address. Harry was the husband of Ione Brown, former OSFA Executive Secretary and OFCA Administration Director.

David Nelson II, Choctaw & Jones FD The Final Fire Alarm sounded for Choctaw firefighter David Nelson II on May 11. He was 22. David proudly served on both the Choctaw and Jones Fire Departments. He had tremendous passion for being a firefighter. He graduated from Jones High School in 2016, where he played football, basketball and baseball and also ran track. He graduated from the EOC Fire Academy the same year. Some will remember him as the smiling young boy with the blonde mullet. Some will remember him as the hardworking, loyal and respectful young firefighter. But he will always be known as “Little Man.”

The Final Fire Alarm sounded for Norman Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Steely on May 5. He was 77. Wayne joined the Norman Fire Department in 1969, advanced to the rank of assistant chief July 1986 and retired in 1995 after 26 years of service. Throughout his career and as an assistant chief, Wayne set the bar high as a mentor and role model to many firefighters. The men on his crew often said they trusted his decision making on a fire scene so much that they would walk through fire for him. He will be remembered as a trusted leader and friend in the NFD community. While at the NFD he enjoyed playing football, volleyball, basketball and ping pong with the other firefighters, but he was known as the man to try to beat in ping pong. The story that became a legend at NFD was that he beat another firefighter in ping pong using a chicken leg as a paddle.

Tommy C. Wagner, Panama FD The Final Fire Alarm sounded for Panama firefighter Tommy C. Wagner on April 20. He was 73. Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam. He was also a firefighter with the Panama FD and retired after 20 years of service. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish and spend time at his cabin and camping at the lake. Tommy retired from Dixie Cup after 40 years.

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36June/July 2020Oklahoma Firefighter