FEMSA News Summer 2010 Newsletter

FEMSA News Summer 2010

The Resource for Public Safety Businesses

www.FEMSA.org

is the proud sponsor of the FEMSA 2010 Summer Newsletter

HILL DAY 2010 GAC: 2010 “Hill Day” A Success, But The Work Only Begins

By Dave Gatton

2010 FEMSA Annual Meeting & Conference Programs The Future of the Fire Service

CFSI DINNER. Page 12

s in

Chicago

San Antonio, Texas October 7-8 Register Now at www.femsa.org PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE. Page 2

Check Out Favorite Haunt

for FRI 2010 Page 18

REMEMBER THE ALAMO. Page 14

MEMBER NEWS. Page 22-26

FEMSA News

President’s Message

Summer 2010

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” – Abraham Lincoln This very simple quote can mean a multitude of things depending upon what you want to apply it to. However, no matter what topic you choose, you can almost always find an application for this type of personal responsibility.

The FEMSA meeting planning and education committees have shown their own brand of personal responsibility by working tirelessly to create an annual meeting program that will provide a superior level of value to the members of FEMSA and FAMA. This year’s program is based around the future of the fire service, and will give you the opportunity to engage in our industry and make it better. I am asking you to attend the annual meeting as your personal responsibility to improve yourself, your company, and our industry.

The FEMSA and FAMA boards also recently showed their personal commitment and responsibility by meeting jointly in Baltimore. This gathering was a new event with the entire goal of the meeting focused on furthering the relationship between the two organizations that has been built over the past several years. Jointly these two organizations are much stronger working together in concert than separately. Whether the issue is centered on apparatus, equipment, services or distribution, these two organizations working together make the message stronger, and the load lighter.

Finally, we as an organization need to promote personal responsibility to the emergency service community we serve. The FEMSA Personal Responsibility Code is the best way for FEMSA members to call attention to the first responders that they need to be properly trained for the equipment they use and for the responses they are asked to complete.

The FEMSA Personal Responsibility Code is an excellent reminder to first responders to ask the question, “Am I trained? Do I understand the risks of the job I have been asked to complete?”

This type of personal responsibility will not only make the emergency service providers safer, but also will allow them to provide a better service to the communities they serve.

There are several examples of the FEMSA PRC in use. My company, for instance, has made the personal commitment to include the FEMSA Personal Responsibility Code with every bid proposal and delivery book we provide. There are many more creative examples than that out there, but hopefully it demonstrates just how easy it is to ask our industry to be personally responsible.

In closing, I am asking you for two things. Visit the FEMSA web site, or contact the FEMSA office and become a registered user of the FEMSA Personal Responsibility Code. It is the best way that you can make safer the industry and people who dedicate their lives to helping others.

The last thing is to sign up and attend the annual meeting. I guarantee you that you will not be disappointed. You will receive more in return than the time and money you will put in.

See you in San Antonio,

Official Publication of The Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association, Inc. P.O. Box 147 Lynnfield, MA 01940-0147 Phone - 781-334-2771 Email - info@femsa.org Website - www.femsa.org Provided to members as a benefit of membership. Articles from members are invited.

FEMSA reserves the right to edit for factual content, brevity and clarity.

Current Active FEMSA Committees:

Annual Meeting Planning Bill Lawson / Janet Wilmoth, Board Liaison • Education Greg Toritto/Crosby Grindle Committee Chairs; Janet Wilmoth, Board Liaison • Governmental Affairs John Granby, Board Liaison • Marketing/Newsletter Joe Skey Committee Chair; Paul Andrews, Board Liaison • Membership Joe Porter, Committee Chair; Roger Weinmeister, Board Liaison • Nominating Lila Gillespie, Committee Chair; Doug Bonney, Board Liaison • Strategic Planning Dan Reese, Board Liaison • Trade Show Advisory Ken Nielsen Board Liaison • UIG Bill Burke, Committee Chair; Don Welch, Board Liaison

Thanks to our advertisers...

Firehouse Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Fire Chief Fire Engineering / FDIC FireRescue Magazine FEMSA Welcomes its newest member BullEx, Inc.

Dan Reese

Ryan O’Donnell, CEO 20 Cirporate Circle Albany, NY 12203 (518) 68-2023 rodonnell@bullexsafety.com www.bullexsafety.com Manufacturer of fire fighter training simulators and rescue mannequins ©Copyright 2010, FEMSA, MA (USA) Editors: Karen Burnham, Dan Reese Newsletter Committee: Jennifer Altfield-Schlett Board Liaison: Paul Andrews Layout: Simon Steinbach Events Calendar: Bob Barraclough

2 Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

We are the #1 media leader committed to connecting you with the largest audience of ďŹ re service personnel and decision makers in the market. Call us today for the answers you need to strategically position your company within the industry.

contents 2 President’s Message 4 5

2010 FEMSA Board of Directors

9

Trade Show Report Card & Advisory Committee

FEMSA & FAMA Annual Meeting

10

NFFF Vulnerability Assessment Program

10

CFSI Silent Auction

11

2010 “Hill Day” A Success, But the Work Only Begins

11

Canadian Governmental Committee (CGC)

12

Annual CFSI Dinner & Seminars

13

FEMSA Partners with USFA...

“Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign”

14 15

“Remember The Alamo!”

FEMSA/FAMA DC Reception & Award Presentation

16

Small Firm Retirement Plans: Two New Studies

16

TECH BIT: Is Your Computer Bland?

18

Favorite Haunts in Chicago

20

Interoperability Technology Today

20

The Impact & Implications of Losing Customers

21

NFPA releases new edition of NFPA 1600®

22

Member News

26

FEMSA 2010 Fire Service Events

4 Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

2010 FEMSA Board of Directors Officers/Executive Committee

FEMSA Professional Resources

Dan Reese (2012) President Alexis Fire Equipment Company (309) 482-6121 danr@alexisfire.com

Karen Burnham Administrator (781) 334-2771 info@femsa.org

Bill Lawson (2011) Vice President PBI Performance Products, Inc. (704) 554-3865 William.lawson@pbiproducts.com

James J. Juneau Legal Counsel (972) 866-8333 jjuneau@juneauboll.com

Melinda Freeman (2012) Secretary-Treasurer Class 1, Inc. (352) 387-0416 mfreeman@idexcorp.com

Bob Grimaldi Travel Planner Rome Travel Bureau, Inc. (904) 495-5055 bobg@rometravel.com

Don Welch (2011) Executive Committee Member Globe Manufacturing Co. (603) 435-8323, x3309 donw@globefiresuits.com

Simon Steinbach Gabe Steinbach Webmaster, Newsletter Windmill Hill Consulting, LLC (314) 504-0945 gabe@windmillhillconsulting.com

Mike Natchipolsky (2012) Firehouse.com (301) 486-3224 mike.natchipolsky@cygnusb2b.com

David Gatton Governmental Affairs Consultant Development Initiatives, Inc. (202) 957-6530 dgatton@dinitiatives.com

Board Members Paul Andrews (2010) FirefighterNation.com Go Forward Media (240) 595-2352 paul@goforwardmedia.com

Rick Singer (2012) Akron Brass Company (330) 287-7023 rsinger@akronbrass.com

Doug Bonney (2011) Kochek Co., Inc. (860) 933-6367 dougbonney@kochek.com

Giff Swayne (2012) Past President Holmatro, Inc. (410) 768-9662 x103 gswayne@holmatro-usa.com

John Granby (2010) Lion Apparel, Inc. (937) 415-2843 jgranby@lionapparel.com

Roger Weinmeister (2010) Executive Committee Member Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc. (970) 667-5146 rogerw@supervac.com

Ken Nielsen (2010) Paratech Incorporated (815) 469-3911 knielsen@paratech.us

Janet Wilmoth (2009) Fire Chief Publications (312) 840-8410 janet@firechief.com

REGISTER NOW!

FEMSA & FAMA ANNUAL/FALL MEETINGS

& CONFERENCE PROGRAMS

“THE FUTURE OF THE FIRE SERVICE” San Antonio, Texas • October 7-8, 2010 YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS: • FEMSA and FAMA business meetings • A great line-up of speakers and events based on feedback from our members • Networking, networking, networking!

CONFERENCE LOCATION Marriott Plaza 555 South Alamo Street San Antonio, TX

TO REGISTER: www.FEMSA.org or www.FAMA.org Want to register, but you aren’t a member? Contact us to find out how!

Karen Burnham at info@femsa.org or info@fama.org

FEMSA & FAMA ANNUAL/FALL MEETINGS Please note: schedule and speakers subject to change.

WEDNESDAY - OCTOBER 6, 2010: ARRIVAL 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

FEMSA Board Lunch FEMSA Board Meeting

THURSDAY - OCTOBER 7, 2010

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Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

6:30 am 7:00 am - 9:00 am 7:30 am - 8:45 am 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

FAMA Board Breakfast

FAMA Board Meeting FEMSA Member Breakfast FEMSA Annual Business Meeting Lunch Break (on own) FEMSA/FAMA Joint Session Keynote - Future Direction of the Fire Service in North America Dr. Denis Onieal –Superintendent, U.S. Fire Training Academy

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Economy Insight Mark Light - Director, International Association of Fire Chiefs

3:00 pm - 3:15 pm 3:15 pm - 5:00 pm

Break (FEMSA and FAMA)

Fire Chiefs Roundtable Moderator: Chief Dennis Compton (ret.)

Panelists: Mack Borchardt, Fire Chief, Frisco Fire Dept.

Charles Hood, Fire Chief, San Antonio Fire Dept.

Denis Onieal, Superintendent, U.S. Fire Training Academy Shane Ray, Fire Chief, Pleasant View Vol. Fire Dept.

Jay Reardon, Fire Chief, MABAS-Il

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Reception: All members and guests

& CONFERENCE PROGRAMS FRIDAY - OCTOBER 8, 2010 7:30 am 8:00 am - 9:45 am 7:30 am 8:30 am - 9:45 am 8:30 am - 9:45 am 9:45 am - 10:00 am 10:00 am - 10:45 am 10:45 am - 11:30 am 11:30 am - 1:00 pm 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

2:30 pm - 2:45 pm 2:45 pm - 4:00 pm 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

FAMA Member Breakfast

FAMA Business Meeting

FEMSA Member Breakfast Spouse Program: Breakfast “Off the Menu” FEMSA Meeting and Caucus Groups Statistical Data gathering for FEMSA Break (FEMSA and FAMA)

Fire Grant Administration Ross Ashley - Assistant Administrator, Grant Programs Directorate, FEMA Vulnerability Assessment Project Chief Ron Siarnicki - NFFF Lunch (FEMSA and FAMA Members) Fire Drill • Social Media Marketing • Blogging for Manufacturers • Online Surveys • How To Coordinate a “Home Day” • Trade Show Effectiveness • New “Hands Only” CPR Demo + AED Demo • Smart Phone Apps for Business • Legal Issues • Mutual Aid Purchasing • Insurance • Fire Chiefs and Salespeople: Improving the Connection • Break (FEMSA and FAMA) • Member’s Open Mic Presentation (awaiting confirmation) Reception: All members and guests Banquet & Speaker: All members and guests

SATURDAY - OCTOBER 9, 2010: DEPARTURE SAN ANTONIO ATTRACTIONS

There are many things to do. Here is just a sampling to help you plan your visit.

• The Alamo: The old mission where a small band of Texans held out for thirteen days against the centralist army of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. Just a short walk from the River Walk.

• Riverwalk San Antonio: Shops, restaurants and bars along the banks of the San Antonio River.

• Fort Sam Houston: The post is known as the birthplace of military aviation; now known as the home of Army medicine.

• San Antonio Botanical Garden • Market Square (El Mercado): Shopping area patterned after an authentic Mexican market.

• San Antonio Zoological Gardens And Aquarium: Ranked as one of the top zoos in the nation.

• Spanish Governor’s Palace: A national historic landmark • Sea World of San Antonio

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

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FEMSA & FAMA ANNUAL/FALL MEETINGS & CONFERENCE PROGRAMS

SPEAKER BIOS Dennis Compton, Chief (ret.) is a well-known speaker and the author of several books. Compton was the Fire Chief in Mesa, Arizona for five years and Assistant Fire Chief in Phoenix, Arizona, where he served for twenty-seven years. He has served as Chairman of the Executive Board of the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) and Chairman of the Congressional Fire Services Institute’s National Advisory Committee. He is currently Chairman of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors and Chairman of the Home Safety Council Board of Directors.

Mack Borchardt, Chief, Frisco Volunteer Fire Department, joined the Frisco Volunteer Fire Department in the summer of 1973.

Frisco’s then-Mayor appointed him Fire Chief of the Volunteer Fire Department in February 1979. His volunteer status evolved into a paid position with the City of Frisco in 1981. When Frisco’s first and only City Manager, George Purefoy, came to Frisco in 1987, Chief Borchardt moved to the fire department on a full time basis. He continues to wear the hat of ‘Fire Chief’ today.

Charles N. Hood, Chief, San Antonio Fire Department, became fire chief in April 2007. Prior to his current appointment, Hood served more than 23 years in the Phoenix Fire Department, including progressively responsible positions as Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief and Division Chief. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at Texas A&M University in the national Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center. Additionally, Hood is a member of the Red Incident Support Team, a national incident management team on call to respond to natural and manmade disasters.

Dr. Denis Onieal, Superintendent, National Fire Academy, was appointed in 1995. He completed a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1976, a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Fairleigh (Fair-Lee) Dickinson University in 1978 and a Doctor of Education degree from New York University in 1990. He taught in the Master and Doctorate programs in Education at NYU for five years and has over 30 publications in the fire field. Onieal joined the Jersey City Fire Department in 1971, rising through the ranks from firefighter to Deputy Chief, and then acting chief in 1995, leading a uniformed force of over 600 firefighters and officers.

Shane Ray, Chief, Pleasant View (Tenn.) Volunteer Fire Department, began his fire service career in 1984 and worked through the ranks of career and volunteer organizations serving from firefighter to chief. Ray is also Director of Public Fire Protection for the National Fire Sprinkler Association. He is a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, the University of Maryland’s Leadership Development Program, and the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. He is currently an adjunct instructor at the Tenn. Fire Service and Codes Academy as well as the National Fire Academy.

Jay Reardon, Chief, MABAS-II, has served in Fire and Emergency Services since 1967. He has served as Fire Chief in three different states and recently retired from the Village of Northbrook, Illinois. Chief Reardon earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southern Illinois University, a Masters of Public Administration from Western Michigan University, and a Postgraduate Fellowship from Harvard’s JFK School of Government. Chief Reardon currently serves as instructional staff for Southern Illinois University and Northwestern University. He is the previous President (1999-2010) and current Chief Executive Officer for the MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System)-Illinois, coordinating 1,100 member agencies in support of large scale incidents, disaster responses and terrorist attacks.

Mark W. Light, chief executive officer and executive director, International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), is also the chief executive officer of Emergency Services Consulting International (ESCI), a for-profit subsidiary of the IAFC. Before being appointed as the executive director, he served for five and a half years as the Deputy Executive Director. Prior to coming to the IAFC, Light was the Fire Chief in Henrico County, Virginia, and the Deputy Chief of the Roanoke County Fire and Rescue Department. He has a Masters of Public Administration from Virginia Polytechnic and State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Mary Baldwin College.

Don’t miss out on seeing any of these expert presenters—Register for the

FEMSA & FAMA Annual/Fall Meetings & Conference Programs TODAY!

www.FEMSA.org or www.FAMA.org

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Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

Trade Show Report Card and Advisory Committee By: Krystal Higgins & Ken Nielsen

Another trade year has begun and the complete Trade Show Report Card Results are in for 2009. Once again, FEMSA is presenting what we hope is valuable information for members who are major trade show exhibitors. A lot of time, energy, and of course, money is spent at tradeshows; and FEMSA, now with FAMA are the only organizations grading the major fire and emergency services trade shows.

There has been a lot of concern about Fire-Rescue International being held at McCormick Place this year. Chicago has not seen a Fire-Rescue International trade show since 1969.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs has been working hard with McCormick Place staff to get concessions for FEMSA and FAMA members from various unions. The following is a list of a few concessions that are currently being discussed: - New labor work rules that reduce crew sizes and require less overtime pay - Allowing shows to select outside electrical and food service contractors - Auditing contracts to ensure savings are passed on to customers - Establishing one Move-in/Move-out labor bargaining unit, one Assembly/Disassembly bargaining unit, and one Electrical/Production bargaining unit - Expanding exhibitor rights, which include allowing customers to do their own work, regardless of booth size

2009 Trade Show Report Cards

***The use of power tools for polishing apparatus is still under consideration and we will do our best to provide that information when it becomes available.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any suggestions about how to make the Trade Show Report Card more useful, please do not hesitate to let us know.

An impromptu gathering of good friends at FDIC who represent several FEMSA media caucus members included: (l-r) Rich Gluth (Fire Chief), Mary Velline (Firehouse), Paul Andrews (GoForward Media), Janet Wilmoth (Fire Chief), Steve Elias (Firehouse), Gene Prall (Firehouse), and Greg Toritto (Fire Chief)

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

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NFFF Vulnerability Assessment Program

By Chief Ron Siarnicki

O

ver the course of his career, first as a fire chief and now as United States Fire Administrator, Kelvin Cochran has been committed to reducing firefighter injuries and preventable line-of-duty-deaths. This dedication led him to be a leader in his own departments regarding safety practices, and as US Fire Administrator, to begin a rigorous intellectual study of why and how firefighters are injured and killed on the job. Early on in his tenure at USFA, Chief Cochran asked the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) to oversee the development of a new method of reducing line-of- duty injuries and deaths—the Vulnerability Assessment Tool. The NFFF was a natural fit for this partnership as its mission of serving the families of fallen firefighters had recently expanded to lead the fire service in reducing preventable line-of-duty injuries and deaths.

The vulnerability assessment project seeks to reduce firefighter injuries and fatalities by aligning capacity with expectations. At present, most fire departments do not have a systematic way to measure and describe their capacity to deliver emergency services.

In addition, most communities do not have explicit expectations about the level and quality of services their citizens expect from the fire department; nor do most citizens understand the types of risks firefighters are exposed to. The gap between service capacity and service expectations creates vulnerability for firefighter injuries and fatalities. This occurs because firefighters are inherently action oriented, and will attempt to fill the gap between capacity and expectations by taking higher levels of risk. As the gap between capacity and expectations increases, firefighters take higher levels of risk, which results in greater vulnerability for firefighter injuries and fatalities.

The vulnerability assessment will be interactive and available on-line, and will provide fire chiefs and fire officers with a systematic process to evaluate their community risks and resource capabilities, including health and safety programs, and identify areas of vulnerability to historically predictable and preventable risk. At the end of the process, a department will have 10

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

a customized report identifying areas of vulnerability linked to firefighter injuries and deaths. Each report will contain suggestions for “risk reduction alternatives” specific to each identified vulnerability as appropriate, and will transmit to the department industry standards and suggestions to address identified problems. Consequently, fire departments will have results based on scientific analysis to develop operational and strategic plans to implement the risk reduction recommendations necessary to minimize or eliminate predictable causes of line of duty deaths and injuries.

With this data-driven material, fire chiefs will have a completely rationalized manner in which to approach city managers, mayors and financial analysts regarding the most important issues of staffing and equipment purchases. No more will fire chiefs have to make appeals based on emotion or hunches.

They will have data in hand to make prudent appeals for precious resources. Fire departments will be able to use this process to improve their capacity to provide service, change the service level expectations in their communities if necessary, and explore creative and innovative strategies for achieving the same or better levels of service with their current capacity.The vulnerability assessment project is expected to be completed and beta tested within three years.

Remember to be safe so that

“Everyone Goes Home”!!!

Chief Ron Siarnicki is the Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation based in Emmitsburg (MD) on the campus of the National Fire Academy/

USFA.

CFSI Silent Auction

O

n July 24, 2010, the Congressional Fire Services Institute will hold its annual Silent Auction at the Firehouse Expo.

A popular event among trade show attendees, the auction takes place at the entrance to the exhibit hall and offers a wide variety of exciting items on which to bid, including NASCAR tickets, fire helmets, autographed sports merchandise, and many other great items.

CFSI’s success in past years is due in large part to the donations it receives from organizations that have benefited from CFSI’s work on Capitol Hill.

CFSI is not federally funded and derives all its income through various fundraising activities – like the Silent Auction. In this spirit, CFSI is asking for support through contributions having a retail value greater than $75. Typically, entertainment items such as tickets to events and vacation packages, as well as sports and fire service memorabilia, are popular items among bidders. In addition, equipment for individual usage – including helmets, f lashlights and rescue tools – are popular.

In return for donations, CFSI will display a poster with your company’s logo next to the item you have donated, and provide a Certificate of Recognition for your generous donations.

If your organization would like to make a contribution to the Silent Auction, please contact Mike Alderfer at (202) 371-1277. All donations must be received by July 16, 2010.

Follow Us On twitter.com/FEMSANews

2010 “Hill Day” a Success, But the Work Only Begins

Canadian Governmental Committee (CGC)

By Dave Gatton, GAC Consultant

By Bruce Whitehouse, CGC Consultant

T

O

he following comment, taken COMMITTEE from the Executive CANADIAN Summary prepared for The Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence, is a testament to the depth of the challenges facing the fire service in Canada. The 2008 report being referenced is the follow-up to a study first done in 2004.

The study surveyed 100 municipalities.

n April 28-29 the FAMA/FEMSA Government Affairs Committee held its 2010 “Hill Day” in Washington D.C. in conjunction with the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) National Fire & Emergency Services dinner and seminar programs.

By all measures, Hill Day was a tremendous success, thanks to the 30-plus FEMSA and FAMA members who arrived early to make almost 70 separate visits to Congressional offices.

The People on the Front Lines Speak

Our message to Congress was clear and straightforward. In Fiscal Year 2011, fund the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program at $565 million, its Fiscal Year 2009 level. If budget constraints require cutbacks, provide at least $420 million for the program.

… Fully 92 of them responded, and their responses reflect growing frustration with (a) an overall lack of funding; and (b) inflexible funding mechanisms, both of which are preventing Canadian communities from improving their capacity to deal with the kind of emergencies that, sooner or later, we will likely have to face.

This message was delivered officially earlier in the week in the form of a letter to the key House appropriators from FEMSA President Dan Reese and FAMA President Peter Darley. Writing to Representative David Price, Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee for Homeland Security, and Representative Harold Rogers, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, the Presidents told leaders that local government budgets were under severe strain from the recession and that further cuts to the AFG program would compound an already difficult situation to meet the equipment and training needs of the nation’s first responders.

The Executive summary goes on to state “Discouraging is too kind a word” to describe the progress (or lack thereof ) that has been achieved. Among others, the summary references the following critical areas: • Lack of funding for municipalities for maintenance, training and more appropriate equipment once local vulnerabilities have been identified • Failure of senior governments to consult municipal first responders to determine their actual needs

A Very Difficult Federal Budget Year

•

Along with the entire Fire Service, it is extremely important for members of FEMSA and FAMA to write and call their Congressional delegations to express support for FY 2011 AFG funding for $565 million level. President Obama’s $300 million budget request for AFG was better than last year’s request of $185 million, but still falls far short of the $390 million the program received for the current fiscal year. Now the Congressional appropriators must do their work.

It is easy to spot the common ground between the needs of the fire service across North America. Just a quick read of the 10 Important Facts brochures prepared for the Canadian and US fire services will clearly show the consistent challenges being faced by our first responders.

It is extremely important that we stop the trend of funding cuts for the AFG program. We can call this year’s 30 percent cut an aberration, but two consecutive years of cuts would be a dangerous precedent. That is why it is important to fund the program at the $420 million level at a minimum, if Congress can not restore the program to the $565 million level.

This “grass roots” campaign got underway earlier this year with the first of several ad insertions in Forum – the publication of the Canadian Federation of Municipalities. The new CGC website is in the final stages of completion so that when administrators across Canada ask the question – “why does my Fire Department need more money”, or “why do fire trucks cost so much”, there will be a website that can help answer their questions. Stay tuned for word that the www.famafemsacgc.org site is up and running .… with facts that clearly show the true state of the fire service in Canada.

In the meantime, the President has called for a freeze in over all domestic discretionary spending to help address the federal budget deficit. He has also created an independent deficit reduction commission to make recommendations by the end of the year on how to get a handle on the nation’s debt—a laudable objective. These two facts will continue to put severe strain on the nation’s pocket book.

But one thing is clear: with an increasing American population whose baby boomers are retiring, and with continued terrorism threats as most recently experienced in the Times Square bombing attempt, the nation’s first responders will continue to see the need for their services increase, and dramatically so. The AFG program helps meet this essential public service that is at the heart of each citizen’s sense of safety. It is a public purpose worth advocating for and one that we must not shrink from.

Thanks to all the FEMSA and FAMA members who are a part of this effort.

Lack of inoperability among regional first responders

The CGC has embarked on a new approach to help the fire service in helping to bring awareness of these needs to the municipalities, the municipal managers and, hopefully, the politicians as the provincial and federal levels.

At the recent Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs conference and trade show in Toronto, Fire Chief Richard Boyes, President of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs presented John Granby and Steve Lawrence (GAC Chair and Past Chair respectively) with the OAFC President’s Award in recognition of their support and mentorship in getting the CGC up and running.

Last, but certainly not least, the CGC is pleased to announce that Richard Boyes, Fire Chief of Oakville, Ontario and Past President of the OAFC, has accepted the role of Vice Chair on the CGC. Richard’s experience and talents will go a long way to building the necessary relationships and to ensuring that the voice of the fire service is heard loud and clear across the various levels of government.

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

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Dan Reese, Cong. Rob Andrews, Peter Darley

Sean Duffy, Dan Reese, Peter Darley, John Granby, former Cong. Curt Weldon (FEMSA member), Grady North, Jerry Halpin, Gabe Steinbach

22nd Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner and Seminars On April 28th and 29th the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) hosted the 22nd Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner and Seminars.

T

he two day event, located at the Washington Hilton, featured educational seminars conducted by leading fire service and administrative officials. The event culminated with the Annual Fire and Emergency Services Dinner. Over 2,000 fire service leaders were present to hear Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano deliver the keynote address.

The attendees also heard remarks from Congressional Fire Service Caucus Co-Chairs, including Senator Tom Carper, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Congressman Peter King (Chairman of the Fire Caucus) and Congressman Rob Andrews.

In addition to the speeches, the program included award presentations.

The CFSI Board of Directors selected Mr. Kevin O’Connor of the

International Association of Fire Fighters as the recipient of the 2010 CFSI/Motorola Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award.

Established in 1998, the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have been proactive at the local, state, or federal level to improve fire/emergency services and life safety issues.

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) selected the National Volunteer Fire Council, Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the City of New York Fire Department for the 2010 Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. Named after retired-Senator Paul S. Sarbanes of Maryland, a strong advocate of our nation’s firefighters and rescue personnel during his 36-year career in Congress, the award recognizes organizations for their outstanding contributions to firefighter health and safety.

The last presentation was the Dr. Anne W. Phillips Award for Leadership in Fire Safety Education. Sponsored by the Home Safety Council, the award was presented to Sharon Gamache of the National Fire Protection Association.

“We take great pride in hosting this event,” said CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb. “It provides a unique opportunity for fire service leaders, including industry officials, to learn how the federal government is addressing fire service issues and to engage in the legislative process.”

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Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

FEMSA Partners with USFA...“Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign”

Every year, more than 3,000 people die in home fires in the United States; most of whom are in homes without a working smoke alarm. To prevent these deaths, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is sponsoring a nationwide Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign designed to raise awareness about how working, properly installed smoke alarms can lower a person’s chances of dying in a fire.

FEMSA is proud to partner with the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) in this effort.

The U.S. Fire Administration continues to encourage all Americans to properly install and maintain smoke alarm as well as emphasize that “Smoke Alarms Save Lives.” As you know, more than 3,000 people die in home fires each year, and the majority of them have no working smoke alarms. The USFA wants all residents to know that smoke alarms have a lifespan of 10 years. After 10 years have passed, the alarm is no longer reliable and needs to be replaced.

An important part of maintaining a smoke alarm includes replacing it after 10 years of service. It’s a fact: all hardwired or battery- operated smoke alarms, installed before May 2000 should be replaced now! The few minutes it takes to replace a smoke alarm can save the lives of roommates, family members, neighbors and firefighters.

•

Interconnected smoke alarms are best, because if one sounds, they all sound.

If you have any questions, please contact Christy Bennett at cbennett@ hagersharp.com or at 202-842-3600 x242.

For more information on the Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign and other fire prevention information, please visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/ smokealarms. Remember to Install. Inspect. Protect…Smoke Alarms Save Lives.

A FREE smoke alarm installation widget is available to post on your website. The widget is a convenient, automatic and effortless way to remind your colleagues and members to change smoke alarms that are older than 10 years old. Go to http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/notices/ ads.shtm to download the widget, which is available in both English and Spanish.

Homeowners, landlords and renters should check to verify exactly when each smoke alarm in the home was installed. If any smoke alarm was installed before May 2000, now is the time to have it replaced. Feel free to also add the tips below to your website and/or other forms of communiqué.

The USFA offers a few helpful tips on smoke alarms: •

Every residence, and place where people sleep, should be equipped with both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.

•

Place properly installed and maintained smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home.

•

Test smoke alarms monthly and change alkaline batteries at least once every year, or as instructed by the manufacturer. You can use a date you already know, like your birthday or when you change your clocks as a reminder.

•

Write the installation date on the inside cover of the smoke alarm for future reference.

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

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“R e m e m b e r t h e A l a m o! ”

More than 2.5 million people each year visit the 4.2 acre complex known as “The Alamo”. It’s just a few blocks away from the San Antonio Plaza Marriott, host hotel of the FEMSA and FAMA annual fall conference in October.

O

ne of the most gallant stands of courage and undying self-sacrifice which have come down through the pages of history is the defense of the Alamo, which is one of the priceless heritages of Texans.

It was the battle-cry of “Remember the Alamo” that later spurred on the forces of Sam Houston at San Jacinto. Anyone who has ever heard of the brave fight of Colonel Travis and his men is sure to “Remember the Alamo.”

Besieged by Santa Anna, who had reached Bexar on February 23, 1836, Colonel William Barret Travis, with his force of 182, refused to surrender but elected to fight and die, which was almost certain, for what they thought was right. The position of these men was known but no aid reached them. The request to Colonel James W. Fannin for assistance had gone unheeded. No relief was in store. As the Battle of the Alamo was in progress, a part of the Texas Army had assembled in Gonzales under the command of Mosely Baker in the latter part of February. From this army, a gallant band of 32 courageous men under the command of George C. Kimble left to join the garrison at the Alamo. Making their way through the enemy lines, these 32 men joined the doomed defenders and perished with them.

On March 2, 1836, during the siege of the Alamo, Texas independence was declared. Four days later, the document was signed with the blood shed at the Alamo. It was under such conditions that Travis and his men fought off the much larger force under Santa Anna. It was with the love of liberty in his voice and the courage of the faithful and brave that Travis gave his men the none too cheerful choice of the manner in which they wished to die.

Realizing that no help could be expected from the outside and that Santa Anna would soon take the Alamo, Travis addressed his men, told them that they were fated to die for the cause of liberty and the freedom of Texas.

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Their only choice was in which way they would make the sacrifice. He outlined three procedures to them: first, rush the enemy, killing a few but being slaughtered themselves in the hand-to-hand fight by the overpowering Mexican force; second, to surrender, which would eventually result in their massacre by the Mexicans, or, third, to remain in the Alamo and defend it until the last man, thus giving the Texas army more time to form and likewise taking a greater toll among the Mexicans The third choice was the one taken by the men. Their fate was death and they faced it bravely, asking no quarter and giving none. The siege of the Alamo ended on the dawn of March 6, when its gallant defenders were put to the sword. But it was not an idle sacrifice that men like Travis and Davy Crockett and James Bowie made at the Alamo. It was a sacrifice on the altar of liberty.

To learn more about San Antonio, TX. And to Register online now for the Annual Meeting go to www.femsa.org

FEMSA/FAMA DC Reception & Award Presentation

By Steve Lawrence

From left to right: Bill Webb (past award recipient), Mrs. Della Dahl (Cowan), Brian Cowan, Steve Austin (past award recipient), Steve Lawrence (GAC), and John Granby (GAC).

O

n Thursday, April 29th, FEMSA and FAMA hosted a reception at the Hilton Washington that provided a “home” for members to gather and network prior to the CFSI annual dinner that evening. The reception also served as the perfect setting to honor Brian Cowan as the recipient of the FAMA/FEMSA GAC’s prestigious Edward H. McCormack, Jr. Spirit of Excellence Award for 2010.

Brian recently retired from DHS as the Branch Chief of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. He was one of the architects of the AFG as we know it today. The award ceremony was attended by many of Brian’s colleagues at DHS along with past award recipients.

In the spirit of the award, Brian worked quietly within the system to develop the grant programs, yet made his voice heard when needed, just like Ed McCormack did throughout his life. Brian’s vision and ability to work with the system at the federal level has made a huge impact on our businesses and the emergency services industry as a whole.

Over the last several years, members of the GAC developed a personal and professional relationship with Brian and his team that allowed for productive conversations, “out of the limelight”, about the many issues that came out of the crafting of the AFG program.

Through Brian’s support, the FAMA/FEMSA GAC has established a relationship with AFG leadership and staff as a resource for the program going forward.

Please join us in congratulating Brian Cowan as this year’s Spirit of Excellence Award recipient.

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

15

Two New Studies Look at Small Firm Retirement Plans

By Kathryn Tobias, SBA, Washington, DC

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Workers in small firms with fewer than 100 employees are much less likely than larger businesses to have a retirement plan available to them, according to a study released [March 25, 2010] by the Office of Advocacy. A related working paper analyzes the retirement savings behavior of business owners, and finds that retirement account ownership, contribution, and participation rates for all business owners are low; this is especially true of micro-business owners. Both studies use nationally representative data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Income and Program Participation.

“Retirement plan coverage of both business owners and workers is low. These studies give us new information about the particular gaps in retirement plan savings,” said Acting Chief Counsel for Advocacy Susan M. Walthall. “We hope that, armed with this information, policymakers and small business owners can take steps to close the gaps and ensure that workers are able to plan and save adequately for their retirement.”

Small Business Retirement Plan Availability and Worker Participation, by Kathryn Kobe of Economic Consulting Services, finds that the number of companies offering

traditional defined benefit pension plans has been declining steadily, and almost half of the workforce—about 58 million workers— do not have access to any type of retirement plan through their place of work.

Moreover, another 20 million workers do not participate in the plans their employers offer. Nearly 72 percent of workers in small companies have no retirement plan available.

One reason smaller firms may not offer the benefit is the cost of setting up and running a retirement plan.

In Saving for Retirement: A Look at Small Business Owners, Advocacy Economist Jules Lichtenstein offers further evidence for concern that business owners are not saving enough for retirement. This working paper shows that 38.5 percent of owners of businesses with 10 or more employees participated in a 401(k)/Thrift plan, compared with only 16.1 percent of business owners with fewer than 10 employees. These microbusiness owners represent 91 percent of the owners in the sample. The most significant factors affecting participation in individual retirement accounts (IR As) and 401(k)/Thrift plans are homeownership and other retirement plan savings.

The Office of Advocacy, the “small business watchdog” of the federal government, examines the role and status of small business in the economy and independently represents the views of small businesses to federal agencies, Congress, and the President. It is the source for small business statistics presented in user-friendly formats, and it funds research into small business issues.

For more information and a complete copy of the reports, visit the Office of Advocacy website at www.sba.gov/advo.

SBA Number: 10-04 ADVO Contact: Kathryn Tobias (202) 205-6938 kathryn.tobias@sba.gov The Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is an independent voice for small business within the federal government. The presidentially appointed Chief Counsel for Advocacy advances the views, concerns, and interests of small business before Congress, the White House, federal agencies, federal courts, and state policymakers. For more information, visit www.sba.gov/advo, or call (202) 2056533.

TECH BIT: Is Your Computer Bland?

By Gregg Marshall, CPMR, CSP

If your notebook isn’t helping advertise for your company, you are missing a low cost opportunity.

When I got my netbook last year, I read a lot of reviews. Most reviewers mentioned if the netbook case showed fingerprints. I didn’t realize why until I upgraded last year to a thin and light notebook. It is a fingerprint magnet.

I also don’t understand why one color case should cost any more than any other color, yet most netbook/notebooks have case options that cost anywhere from $25 to $300 more.

And at several conferences I’ve attended, I’ve seen developers with notebooks covered in stickers from various sponsors, favorite websites, etc.

Companies like Gelaskins (http://www.gelaskins.

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Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

com/) have been selling thin “stickers” that cover the lid of your notebook (or iPod). But they are generic, artistic covers. They are more personal, but still not unique.

If you don’t have every company laptop covered with something to help promote your products or brands, you are really missing an opportunity.

Recently I discovered a company, Music Skins, which has skins like many other companies, their most recent being the Beatles. But far more exciting is their option to produce a custom skin with anything you want on it.

Imagine having a computer lid that shows off your company whenever you, or your employees, are in public.

MusicSkins LLC is, the leader in music and music-related, high quality, vinyl skin products.

They can be reached at 24 15th St., Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11215, email: info@music-skins. com, Phone:646-827-4264. http://www.musicskins.com.

It could be solely an advertisement for your company or your products. In my case I chose a nice NASA photograph of a night shuttle launch with my company URL prominently displayed. When I speak, with my computer at the podium, the audience will see my company URL.

Gregg Marshall, CPMR, CSP, is a speaker, author and consultant. He can be reached by e-mail at gmarshall@repconnection. com, or visit his website at http://w w w. repconnection.com.

The fire service magazine written exclusively for your best customers:

Apparatus and Emergency Equipment Buyers

& Emergency Equipment www.firemagazine.com For advertising information contact Bob Kelly at rkelly@firemagazine.com or call 914-391-3631

Favorite Haunts in As you prepare for your visit to Chicago for Fire-Rescue International this August, you may find this list helpful for your dining and entertainment pleasure. Most of these establishments may be found around McCormick Place (unless otherwise noted).

by / Chicago Locals Ken Nielsen & Janet Wilmoth

Chinese

Ed Potsticker House (outside of Chinatown) 3139 S. Halsted Evergreen (in Chinatown) 2411 S. Wentworth Phoenix (in Chinatown) 2131 S. Archer Opera (outside of Chinatown) 1301 S. Wabash

Steak

Chicago Firehouse Restaurant 1401 S. Michigan Gene and Georgettie’s 500 N. Franklin Gibson’s 1025 N. Rush Smith & Wolensky 318 N. State (Glenn Bischoff, Editor, Fire Chief) Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse 33 W. Kinzie St. Weber Grill 539 N. State St.

Best Deep Dish Pizza

Calo (Far Northside) 5343 N. Clark (Ken Nielsen, Paratech) Gino’s East 2810 N. Lincoln (Greg Toritto, Associate Publisher, Fire Chief) Lou Malnatt’s 805 S. State (Joelle Pyle, Online Sales Development, Penton) Pizza Metro (Italian style) 1707 W. Division (Sundeé Koffarnus, Art Director, Fire Chief) Primo’s Chicago Pizza 816 W. Van Buren St.

Seafood

Shaw’s 21 E. Hubbard Catch 35 35 W. Wacker Lawrence’s (fast food) 2121 S. Canal Joe’s Stone Crab 60 E. Grand Ave.

Greek

Santorini 800 W. Adams Parliament 314 S. Halsted

Italian

Bruna’s 2424 S. Oakley Tuscany 1014 W .Taylor Merlo on Maple 16 W. Maple Scoozi 410 W. Huron (Joelle Pyle, Online Sales Development, Penton) Vivo Restaurant 838 W. Randolph St.

Mexican/Nuevo Latino Cuernavaca 1158 W. 18th May Street Café (BYOB) 1146 W. Cermak Carnivale 702 W. Fulton Frontera 445 N. Clark

Best Burger & Beer

Skylark 2149 S. Halsted (Ken Nielsen, Paratech) Billy Goat 430 N. Michigan (Greg Toritto, Associate Publisher, Fire Chief) Rock Bottom 1 W. Grand Ave. Mother Hubbard’s 5 W. Hubbard St. O’ Callaghan’s 29 W. Hubbard St. Coogan’s Riverside Saloon 180 N. Wacker Dr. # 1 Rockit Bar & Grill 22 W. Hubbard St. Twin Anchors Restaurant-Tavern 1655 N. Sedgwick St.

Maxwell Street Polish

Jim’s (walk up hotdog stand) 1250 S. Union

Deli

Manny’s 1141 S. Jefferson

Unique

Les Nomades (French prix fixe) 222 E. Ontario 96th Floor John Hancock Building (Janet Wilmoth, Editorial Director, Fire Chief) Arun’s (Thai prix fixe Northside) 4156 W. Kedzie Russian Tea Time 77 E. Adams MK Restaurant 868 N. Franklin Bin 36 339 N. Dearborn St.

Music

Blues- Buddy Guy’s Legends 754 S. Wabash Rock- Reggie’s 2105 S. State Jazz – Close Up 2, 416 S. Clark St. Jazz- Velvet Lounge 67 E. Cermak Jazz- Andy’s 11 E. Hubbard

Fire Rescue International August 24-28, 2010 18

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

Interoperability Technology Today

By Dr. David Boyd, Director’s Message

T

he interoperability progress made nationwide by the emergency response community since the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) first opened its doors in early 2003 has been impressive. Our two-way technological capabilities have significantly improved, our communication methodologies have further developed, and the path towards future progress has become more defined. This immense progress has more clearly specified the information sharing needs of emergency responders. As a result, today’s definition of interoperability has expanded to describe the connectivity of voice and data information.

For this reason, the content of Interoperability Technology Today – a quarterly newsletter published by the Command, Control and Interoperability (CCI) Division within DHS’ Science and Technology Directorate – will broaden to include the evolving meaning and relevance of interoperability among emergency responders.

Interoperability has become a term that resonates at the core of the latest technologies, systems, philosophies, and structures needed to ensure that emergency responders are

equipped with all of the information they need to effectively respond to incidents of any size.

The five Program Areas within CCI – Basic/ Futures Research; Cyber Security; Knowledge Management Tools; Office for Interoperability and Compatibility; and Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Investigative Technologies – are unveiling more critical information tools and methodologies than ever that speak to the instantaneous need for critical communication tools. These capabilities help ensure that our Nation is better prepared to identify, assess, prevent, and minimize the impact of a terrorist attack and natural or manmade disaster achieved through seamless, secure connectivity and information sharing.

The newsletter will continue to provide the latest information on all of the valuable work taking place in partnership with the emergency response community including the new Virtual USA initiative. CCI is partnering with local, tribal, state, and Federal agencies to create a cost-effective nationwide capability that significantly improves information sharing and decision making during emergencies and dayto-day operations. As with all initiatives, the participation and partnership of the emergency response community remains CCI’s highest priority.

The Impact and Implications of Losing Customers

By Mike Henning

A lost customer also means lost feedback [the opportunity to improve] A lost customer means lost sales and revenue that are lost forever A lost customer causes us confusion and asking “why” we didn’t recognize the problem before they left A lost customer means we have also lost a testimonial to use in selling others A lost customer opens us up to potential negative word-of-mouth that might shake up our prospects, customers, suppliers, and staff A lost customer means also having lost all their possible referrals, lost forever A lost customer can have a negative impact on the confidence of our entire staff A lost customer can send messages of doubt to our suppliers, supporters, bankers, marketing partners, etc.

A lost customer forces us to prospect for new customers often, at a time and situation that is all wrong A lost customer and the reduced revenue can slow or even halt plans to grow A lost customer means less money available for maintaining our workforce 20

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

Personal Responsibility Code (PRC) The FEMSA Personal Responsibility Code (PRC) is a code developed by FEMSA members, for FEMSA members, for you to use: - In training manuals and company brochures - Posted on your web sites - On your products The PRC promotes the message that firefighters using the products and services of FEMSA member companies must be properly trained and aware of the role they plan in their own safety.

The PRC provides a uniform warning that encourages firefighters to take responsibility for their own safety by applying some common sense guidelines.

The PRC has gained industry acceptance and is endorsed by the IAFC, FDSOA, FAMA, and by the NFFF’s Everyone Goes Home Life Safety Initiative. Join the ranks of these respected organization and show your endorsement of the PRC by licensing yours today.

Protect your organization and the fire departments you serve … Use the PRC to remind your customers that proper training and safety go hand-in-hand.

Visit www.femsa.org/prc.cfm

NFPA releases new edition of NFPA 1600®

Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs March 19, 2010 – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) released the 2010 Edition of NFPA 1600®, Standard on Disaster/ Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs. It is available for download at no charge on NFPA’s Web site.

The new edition of NFPA 1600 is a completely revised and reorganized version that includes major changes to the technical requirements and definitions.

The chapter on Program Elements now contains four different chapters: Planning, Implementation, Testing and Exercises, and Program Improvement.

“Disasters and emergencies are so unpredictable that organizations must always be prepared to manage them before they occur,” said James M. Shannon, president and CEO of NFPA. “Organizations keep

turning to NFPA 1600 because it helps them develop the best possible strategy for dealing with unforeseen issues.”

NFPA 1600 establishes a common, high level set of criteria for disaster and emergency management and business continuity programs to develop, implement, assess, and maintain these programs. The programs address management, planning, prevention, mitigation, implementation, response, recovery, testing and improvement.

The standard began in 1991 when NFPA’s Standards Council established the Disaster Management Committee to develop a preparedness standard that recognized the crucial components of a comprehensive plan to be used by a wide variety of organizations and businesses. The plan was designed to address preparations for, responses to, and recovery from disasters resulting from natural, human or technological events.

Today, NFPA 1600 is one of NFPA’s most widely implemented standards. It is used by and developed for organizations in both the private and public sector.

NFPA 1600 has been adopted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as the national preparedness standard. Under the provisions of the Support Anti-Terrorism

by Fostering Effective Technologies Act of 2002 (SAFETY Act), DHS has designated NFPA 1600 as a “Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology” (QATT) and certified it as an “Approved Product for Homeland Security.” NFPA 1600, Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs has also been designated for adoption under the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Voluntary Private Sector Preparedness Accreditation and Certification Program (PS-Prep).

FEMSA Members: Share this with your customers - include with your product shipments

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

21

Member News

Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc.

May 4, 2010 - Ferrara Fire Apparatus, Inc. has finished expansion and renovation of its new fire apparatus delivery center. The new delivery center is over twice the size of the previous facility and has three conference rooms at the customers’ disposal. Architecturally appealing, the building is styled after a 19th century fire house with massive arched doorways, double bi-fold doors, copper downspouts and gas lights. The conference rooms are equipped with wireless internet access, printer and phones. Even though Ferrara’s customers may be away from the office, they are still able to stay connected and work from their temporary office.

The delivery center is climate controlled for year round comfort and isolated from the noise that accompanies fire truck manufacturing. Customers are able to thoroughly inspect their apparatus in a quiet, focused atmosphere.

in Computer Science and Business Management, and brings 20 years’ experience in sales management primarily in the area of indirect dealer distribution to this role.

February 2010 – Fire-Dex is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Orazen to Chief Operating Officer.

Mike has a Bachelor of Science in Business from Miami University, Masters in Business Administration from John Carroll University and has extensively studies Best Practices & Family Business at Case Western Reserve. Mike was the President of E.P.G./Trelleborg for six years and with the company for 17 years. He also ran and was an owner of The Edge Sports Performance Academy I Twinsburg, Ohio until it merged in 2009 with Pinnacle Sports.

Mike has a passion for Leadership and Coaching practices, and seeks to provide Fire-Dex with a similar culture.

May 2010 – Kate Walker has been promoted to International Business Development.

Kate received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio State University in Psychology/ Communications. She will be handling all international affairs for Fire-Dex, and will report to Bill Burke. Her extensive product knowledge and superior customer relation skills will continue the growth of the international sales department.

Fire-Dex, LLC January 2010 – Lance Matiste has been promoted to Strategic Account Manager for Fire-Dex. In his 10 years with the company, Lance has been recognized various times for his sales growth and is a threetime recipient of the “MVP Regional Sales Manager of the Year” award. In his new role, he will be working in conjunction with the company’s current distribution channel and regional sales managers to increase the Fire-Dex presence in metro fire departments.

January 2010 – Fire-Dex is pleased to announce the addition of Dave Robinson to the staff. Dave will be the Regional Sales Manager for Great Lakes Region which encompasses Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, western Pennsylvania, and western New York. Dave has a technical degree 22

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

Fire Engineering / FDIC April 16, 2010 - The Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) was held in Indianapolis at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium April 19-24, 2010.

FDIC is a week-long event for firefighters of every rank, consisting of over 60 hands-on training (H.O.T. ®) and pre-conference workshops; 500

classroom sessions; special events hosted around the city; and an exhibition floor that spans both the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. This year’s attendance included 27,471 fire professionals representing every state and 34 countries from around the globe.

During the H.O.T. ® sessions, thousands of firefighters are trained at 18 sites located throughout the city and surrounding areas. These intense evolutions focus on hands-on instruction in realtime scenarios including live burns, collapse rescue, large area search, and extrication.

Following the Opening Ceremony held Wednesday morning, three days of full conference meetings commenced, focusing on hundreds of the most pressing topics and issues that face firefighters today.

“FDIC, first and foremost, is about training firefighters so they can go back to their departments and share what they’ve learned here. We feel our hands-on training and classroom instruction is the finest in the world; we are committed to providing the knowledge and experience they need to save lives and property. We also host the largest national exhibition of fire equipment in the world.

Nationally, municipal budgets are down this year; FDIC’s exhibition floor gives departments from around the country the information and choices they need to make better purchasing decisions,” said Eric Schlett, Executive Director of FDIC. “This year at FDIC, the fire service again proved it has the courage to tackle tough issues, as the diversity panel met and spoke honestly and passionately,” said Bobby Halton, FDIC Education Director. “The fire service also showed it is willing to be introspective as the safety panel explored our shortcomings with candor and honesty. The feeling of brotherhood and sisterhood was pervasive in every gathering, with laughter and hails and farewells resonating with joy and anticipation.”

This year marked the second anniversary of exhibits being held in both the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. Nearly 900 exhibitors unveiled new products and services for the first time at FDIC. On display at the exhibition, attendees had the opportunity to see the latest in innovation of products and services for the fire service. The exhibition ran Thursday through Saturday.

Firefighter One LLC April 26, 2010 - Firefighter One LLC has been experiencing unprecedented levels of growth over the past couple of years and we are extremely grateful to all of you for your continued support.

Business has been great, and as we continue to

gain momentum it is extremely important that we maintain the same level of customer support that has been our trademark since day one.

With this being said it is with great pleasure that we announce two new key hires to our company.

• Captain Randy Frassetto, Surprise (Ariz.) Fire Department, technical editor, Truck Ops • Assistant Chief Todd Harms, Phoenix Fire Department, editorial board member • Fire Chief Ed Hartin, Central Whidbey Island (Wash.) Fire & Rescue, editorial board member Lieutenant Jim McCormack, Indianapolis Fire Department, technical editor, Truck Ops

Dave Ballotta – Operations and Logistics Coordinator Dave has spent the last 7 years working in the fire equipment industry dealing with SCBA/Rescue Tool maintenance and repair. Dave also supported the sales staff with deliveries and product demonstrations.

Born and raised in South Bound Brook, Dave brings 8 years of fire service experience to the table. Dave spent 5 years with the Town Fire Department and transferred to the Bound Brook Fire Department where he currently serves as Asst. Engineer in training on the ladder truck.

Dave’s roll here at Firefighter One is to oversee the shipping, receiving, inventory, and vendor relations.

James Picciuto – Customer Relations Manager James Picciuto was brought on board as our Customer Relations Manager. James brings over 10 years of experience in both sales and sales management to the table, and his ability to build and nurture long term relationships will afford us the ability to offer you the same personal level of service you deserve as we continue to expand our operations.

In addition, he has experience as a small business owner and also possesses a New Jersey Real Estate license. James lives in Succasunna, New Jersey with his wife and two children.

FireRescue Magazine FireRescue Magazine Announces Additions to 2010 Editorial Board FireRescue Magazine, an Elsevier Public Safety publication, is pleased to announce several new editorial board members and technical editors: Chief Brian Crawford, Shreveport (La.) Fire Department, editorial board member and Response Time columnist

• Battalion Chief Todd D. Meyer, Gig Harbor (Wash.) Fire/Medic One, technical editor, Extrication Deputy Fire Coordinator Tiger Schmittendorf, Erie County Department of Emergency Services, Buffalo, N.Y., editorial board member

FireRescue1.com May 8, 2010 - FireRescue1.com Honored with Multiple Awards: Praetorian Group Inc., FireRescue1’s parent company, received a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Small Business Award which recognizes the Top 75 U.S. small businesses. The Blue Ribbon Award recognizes companies that excel in customer service, employee training and community involvement.

In addition, FireRescue1 has won Best Web Publication/trade category at the 2010 recWPA Maggie Awards, which rec ognizes the best in publishing in the Western US. FireRescue1 also received nominations for Best Web or Digital Edition Article for Jason Poremba’s “Flashover: Time to Get Out,” and for Best Use of Social Media for our Facebook Protective Glove Survey.

Honeywell First Responder Products MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. and PARIS, FRANCE, May 19, 2010 – Honeywell (NYSE: HON) and Sperian Protection (Euronext: SPR) today announced Honeywell’s intent to acquire

through a binding sale agreement with Essilor and Mrs. Ginette Dalloz and through the launch of an all-cash tender offer all outstanding shares of Sperian Protection with an aggregate transaction value of approximately USD $1.4 billion, including the assumption of net debt. Sperian Protection is a leader in personal protection equipment (PPE) design and manufacturing and will be combined within Honeywell’s Automation and Control Solutions’ Life Safety business.

In combination with Sperian, Honeywell anticipates that its Safety Products business will benefit from significant synergies, expanded access to global distribution channels, and a strong retail presence. The combined business will offer a full range of complementary “head to toe” products for those who work in environments where safety is paramount, including the general industrial, construction, fire service, and electrical safety segments.

“Sperian Protection’s Board of Directors has unanimously approved the tender offer agreement and intends to recommend Honeywell’s offer upon receipt of a fairness opinion,” said HenriDominique Petit, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sperian Protection. “I’m pleased about the outcome of this process and believe with the Board that the transaction is in the best interests of Sperian, its employees, customers and shareholders, subject to conclusion of fairness opinion from an independent expert.”

The filing of Honeywell’s offer to the French “Autorités des Marchés Financiers” is not subject to any condition precedent and will occur at the latest before the opening of the market on Friday, May 21, 2010. The opening of the offer is subject to approval of the French “Ministère de l’Economie, de l’Industrie et de l’Emploi” on foreign investments and final recommendation of Sperian’s Board of Directors upon receipt of a fairness opinion.

Essilor (holding 15.0% of the capital) and Mrs. Ginette Dalloz (holding directly and indirectly 13.2% of the capital) have entered into a binding agreement for the sale of their Sperian Protection shares to Honeywell, at the same price of €117 per share. This sale is subject to EU and U.S. anti-trust clearance and to the approval of the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Industrie et de l’Emploi on foreign investments. This sale will be completed immediately upon the satisfaction of these conditions precedent.

The completion of the offer would be subject to the successful tender of shares by Sperian shareholders representing no less than 57% of the diluted number of shares (including Essilor and Mrs. Dalloz stakes) as well as EU and U.S. antitrust clearance. Pending regulatory approvals, Honeywell expects the transaction to close in the third quarter of 2010.

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

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Member News

Kochek Company February 19, 2010 – Kochek Company has appointed Jonathan (Jon) Larrabee to the position of Design Engineer. Larrabee will be responsible for designing new products and modifying existing components to incorporate new materials and technologies to meet the future needs of firefighters.

Larrabee has 16 years’ experience in fluid flow dynamics – first, designing components for nuclear submarines, and then designing racing shells for Dirigo/Schoenbrod. For the last 10 years he designed pollution controls devices that use sound waves for cleaning at Putnam-based Controls Concepts, where he was V.P Engineering before moving to Kochek. Jon is a graduate of Worcester Polytechnic Institute with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering.

His qualifying project at WPI was Fluid Flow Dynamics of a Displacement Boat Hull.

L.N. Curtis & sons May 7, 2010 - L.N. Curtis & sons is pleased to announce that it is launching its NEW online ordering website in Summer 2010! Nothing beats putting feet on the street and we still stand by that!

We continue to maintain a full contingent of outside sales professionals and pride ourselves on personal visits to our customers. BUT, we know our customers like to shop on their own time and we’re excited to offer the flexibility of ordering online, plus the ease of searching for the firefighting, rescue and emergency responder products that will enable them to do their job well and safely.

Our customers can still contact us at any of our six locations in the 13 western states and, in Summer 2010, can shop Tools for Heroes® ONLINE at www.LNCURTIS.com!

the NVFC’s Spring Board Meeting on April 30 in Alexandria, VA. Recipients of this year’s awards will receive a trip to Alexandria to attend the award ceremony, a personalized award, and complimentary one-year membership in the NVFC, among other items.

In addition, the recipients of the junior firefighter awards will spend a day on Capitol Hill meeting their Congressional representatives.

Additionally, the Legislative Committee has named Senator Christopher J. Dodd (D-CT) the NVFC Legislator of the Year for 2010, with an award presentation during the Spring Meeting.

The winners of the 2010 NVFC Awards are: Chief John McAuliffe Wethersfield (CT) Volunteer Fire Department NVFC Lifetime Achievement Award Sponsored by Scott Health and Safety (www. scotthealthsafety.com) Earl Cunningham, Jr. Plymouth (PA) Fire Company NVFC Fire Prevention Award Sponsored by First Alert (www.firstalert.com) Michelle Alyssa Carilli Coventry (CT) Volunteer Fire Association NVFC Junior Firefighter of the Year Award Sponsored by Tyco International (www.tyco.com) Westhampton Beach (NY) Fire Department NVFC Junior Firefighter Program of the Year Award Sponsored by Tyco International (www.tyco.com) Senator Christopher J. Dodd (D-CT) NVFC Legislator of the Year The NVFC also reports that it has received a Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grant from the Department of Homeland Security to support the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program. The grant will enable the NVFC to continue many important components of the program, including the Health Fair, Health and Wellness Advocate Workshops, and National Firefighter Health Week, as well as introduce new initiatives in the area of behavioral health.

W.S. Darley & Co. January 2010 – Bill Darley has stepped down as CEO of W.S. Darley & Co. after 60 years. He is succeeded by his son, Paul C. Darley, who now serves as President & CEO. Bill started his career at W.S. Darley & Co. in 1950 after graduating from Purdue University with a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. He became President & CEO in 1976, serving Darley faithfully for 60 years. His leadership over the last 50 years has been remarkable. Bill will remain on as Chairman of the Board.

“While I will never completely ‘retire,’ I am comfortable with the decision and look forward to spending time with my loving wife Fran, 20 grandchildren and other things outside of Darley that I enjoy doing,” noted Bill, maintaining his “nose in – fingers out” mantra.

“While reflecting on the accomplishments of Bill Darley over his life and the contributions he has made, it is hard not to be amazed, stated Paul Darley. He has touched so many lives – not just here at Darley, but in almost everything he does and with everyone he meets – his family, friends, church, community, and the fire service industry.

He has truly left his mark!”

Paul further noted, “I am truly honored to accept this position and humbled by the support from our Board, management team, my siblings and cousins. No one person could ever fill Bill Darley’s shows, but by working together, I am confident that our executive team will continue to lead this company forward in a positive manner.”

POK of North America National Volunteer Fire Council April 2010 - The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has named the recipients of its five national awards. Outstanding individuals and programs from across the country were nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award, Fire Prevention Award, Junior Firefighter of the Year, and Junior Firefighter Program of the Year Award. The awards were presented during a special banquet at 24

Summer 2010 • FEMSA.org

May 2010 – POK of North America has added two manufacture rep groups: Fleming’s Safety Group that will cover the Midwest states of ND, DS, NE, KS, MN, IA, MO, WI, IL, and IN with its staff of seven salesmen; and CM Allen Co. that will cover the Southeast states of TX, OK, AR, LA, MS, AL, GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, WV, KY, and TN with its staff of five salesmen.

POK looks forward to another growing year and thanks you for helping to make it possible.

Western Fire Chiefs Association / FireReccueGPO April 2010 – We are pleased to welcome both

you could spend a lot of time calling around to place ads in regional Web sites. or you could just call us.

The Emergency Services Ad Network (ESAN) contains sites that enable you to brand and create awareness for your firm and its products at a low cost, while reaching thousands of firefighters.

ESAN boasts some of the Web’s best fire and EMS bloggers, regional news, community and information sites in its network stable, including: • Popular firefighting bloggers FireGeezer, STATter911, FireCritic, and more …

• Popular EMS bloggers Happy Medic, Ambulance Driver Files, Medic 999, and more …

• Social and Professional Networks FirefighterNation.com and JEMS Connect • Regionally Targeted Sites including PhillyFireNews.com, FireNews.net, VAFireNews.com, theWatchDesk.com, and others …

• Over 20 Blogs—and growing—in the FireEMSBlogs.com Community • More sites are being added regularly Many of the site partners are focused on niche content or are regionally based, getting ESAN beyond the basics to offer highly targeted advertising opportunities including geographically targeted placements. Advertising includes banners, text links and Rich Media.

Custom programs that include promotion on the social networks and other products are also available.

SAvE TimE ANd hASSlE … AdvErTiSE oN A divErSE ArrAy of dozENS of iNduSTry WEb SiTES All WiTh A SiNglE phoNE cAll. for morE iNformATioN, plEASE coNTAcT: ESAN Sales representative

firerescue magazine and firefighterNation.com Sales representatives

Cindi Richardson (661) 297-4027 cindirichardson@sbcglobal.net

Joe Skey Eastern Sales Representative (856) 673-4000 joe.rhmedia@verizon.net

Sheri Collins Advertising Director/ Western Account Manager (520) 825-3770 sheric@nevpacinc.com

Member News Gregory Keller and Jennifer Winans to the Western Fire Chiefs Association (WFCA) family. The two will be working for the FireRescue Group Purchasing Organization (FRGPO) program as the WFCA Representative and Administrative Assistant, respectively.

Keller and Winans will be responsible for coordinating and conducting FRGPO Advisory Council calls and will be the conduit between the FireRescue GPO program and the fire service, nation-wide. Keller has an Associates’ Degree in Fire Science and a Bachelors’ Degree in Fire Command Administration. Keller’s career in the fire service spans more than 30 years. His time in the uniformed fire service includes Fire Chief (ret.) and Past-President of the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association. Winans holds a Masters Degree in

Education, and has previous work experience in the fire service as the Administrative Staff for the Montana State Fire Chiefs Association. “Keller and Winans bring familiarity, knowledge, credibility and strong relationships gained from years of experience in the fire service to these positions,” said Jessica Heintz, Office Manager of the Western Fire Chiefs Association. “They are a great asset to our Association.”

Member News is provided to members as a benefit of membership. Articles from members are invited. FEMSA reserves the right to edit for factual content, brevity and clarity.

FEMSA Advertising Rates for the Newsletter and Website Quarter Page .........................................$100 Half Page ..............................................$200 Full Page (8.5” x 11”)............................$400

Website rotating 160x600 banner ad, (3 month min.)

Maximum of 4 advertisers in the slot at any given time.

3x ....................................$175/month 6x ....................................$150/month 12x ..................................$125/month Non-Members are welcome to advertise on the FEMSA website or in the FEMSA Newsletter.

A one-time $750 set-up charge applies.

Postings online for FEMSA members is always FREE. Members are allowed to post the following types of events: local, regional and national trade shows; training events and seminars; other Fire/Rescue/EMS events where the public is encouraged to attend.

Submission does not guarantee inclusion. We reserve the right to reject any listings.

2010 FIRE SERVICE EVENTS 2010 SHOW/MEETING

DATE

PLACE

British Columbia Fire Chiefs INTERSCHUTZ 2010 NFPA World Safety Conference Fire 2010 (New York Fire Chiefs) 703-934-4700 Manitoba Fire Chiefs Alberta Fire Chiefs IAFC Southeastern Division New England Fire-Rescue/IAFC N.E. Division Maritimes Fire Chiefs Conf.

IAFC Missouri Valley Division Firehouse Expo: Contact: Mary Velline, 800-827-8009 Texas A & M Municipal School I-Women Conference IAFC Fire-Rescue International

Jun 6-10 Jun 7-12 Jun 7-10 Jun 9-12 Jun 10-12 Jun 19-23 Jun 24-26 Jun 25-27 Jul 4-7 Jul 7-9 Jul 19-25, (Ex. 22-24) Jul 25-31 Aug 23-24 Aug 24-28 (Ex. 27-28)

Penticton, BC Leipzig, Germany Las Vegas, NV Verona, NY Winnipeg, MB Edmonton, ALB Louisville, KY W. Springfield, MA Yarmouth, NS Colorado Springs, CO Baltimore, MD College Station, TX Chicago, IL Chicago, IL

FAMA Tech Meeting Incident Management Symposium (Phoenix FD) IAFC Southwestern Div. New Jersey Firefighters FDSOA Annual Safety Forum Fire-Rescue Canada Firehouse Central/EMS Mary Velline, 800-827-8009 NFFF Memorial Weekend Pittsburgh Fire/Rescue & EMS 800-747-5599 FEMSA/FAMA Annual/Fall Meetings & Conf. Programs FireShowsReno F.I.E.R.O. Fire Station Design Symposium IAFC Volunteer & Combination Officers Symposium

Aug 28 Sep 8-10 Sep TBD Sep 17-18 Sep 19-24, Sep 19-22 Sep 27-Oct 1 Oct 1-3 Oct 2-4 Oct 6-9 Oct 26-27 Oct 31-Nov 1-3 Nov 11-14

Chicago, IL Phoenix, AZ

Contact: Carrie Abernathy at IAFC 703-273-0911

06/04/10

Wildwood, NJ Orlando, FL. Saint John, NB Dallas, TX Emmitsburg, MD Pittsburgh, PA San Antonio, TX Reno, NV Charlotte, NC Clearwater Bch, FL

For updates or corrections, contact Bob Barraclough at 972-618-1599 or rjbarra@aol.com

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