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SAN DIEGO - On January 20, 2015 at 12:40 p.m., the San Diego Fire Department was alerted to a fire at 3811 Wildwood Road in Pt. Loma. Multiple calls were advising firefighters of the fire. - See full story on pages 23
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Early morning fire destroys vacant San José warehouse
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On January 14 at 3:40 a.m., San José firefighters responded to reports of fire inside a vacant commercial structure at the corner of 380 Terraine Street and Bassett St. Crews were confronted with a wellinvolved structure JUMP TO FILE # with heavy fire and 012215103 smoke showing throughout. It was a matter of minutes before the roof collapsed keeping crews at bay as companies established a defensive attack from three sides of the building. Aerial master streams were able to hit the vast majority of fire without putting crews inside the structure due to potential collapse. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze to the building of origin with the majority of the fire extinguished by 6:38 a.m.. Assigned were Battalion 1, Battalion 10, Battalion 29, Med 30, 4S3, Engine 1, Engine 7, Engine 3, Engine 8, Engine 5, Engine 6, Engine 16, Truck 1, Truck 30, Truck 29, USAR 34A, USAR 34B, Squad 26, and Squad 30.
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 1 No. 1 - California edition is published bi-monthly, 6 times a year for $15 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in e r r o r . A division of: Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
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Two fitness rules for the New Year: “Begin and Continue” FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty New Jersey: Christopher Hunter, 38 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 14, 2014 Death Date: November 15, 2014 Fire Department: Cinnaminson Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Hunter responded to his last alarm at 3:05 a.m. on November 14. At 1:52 a.m. the next day, Lieutenant Hunter suffered a cardiac arrest at home. He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Pennsylvania: Samir “Sam” P. Ashmar, 51 Rank: Fire Marshal Incident Date: November 20, 2014 Death Date: November 20, 2014 Fire Department: Upper Macungie Township Station 56 Initial Summary: Several hours after responding to a medical call, Fire Marshal Ashmar was found in cardiac arrest at his residence. Ashmar was treated and transported by fellow responders to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, where he succumbed to his injury.
New York: Richard Weisse, Sr., 59 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 15, 2014 Death Date: November 15, 2014 Fire Department: St. James Initial Summary: A short time after responding to a school fire alarm, Firefighter Weisse suffered a medical emergency and passed away. The nature and cause of death are pending further investigation.
New Jersey: Arthur E. “Art” Treon, 62 Rank: County Fire Coordinator/Deputy OEM Coordinator Incident Date: November 18, 2014 Death Date: November 19, 2014 Fire Department: Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Initial Summary: County Fire Coordinator Treon responded to a working multi-family dwelling fire. While operating as fire coordinator, Treon began experiencing chest pains and difficulty breathing and was transported by EMS to Cape Region Medical Center for a suspected heart attack. Fire Coordinator Treon was admitted for possible pneumonia, but subsequently passed away at approximately 10:30 p.m. on November 19th from a nature and cause of injury still to be reported.
Texas: Alejandro Castro, 40 Rank: Pump Operator/Paramedic Incident Date: November 16, 2014 Death Date: November 16, 2014 Fire Department: Brownsville Fire Department Initial Summary: Pump Operator/Paramedic Castro was found unresponsive while on-duty inside of Brownsville Fire Station 8. Castro had succumbed in the fire station to a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined. New York: James Foote, 57 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 18, 2014 Death Date: November 18, 2014 Fire Department: Summit Fire Department Initial Summary: Upon returning inside the station to get warm after cutting down two trees on the fire department grounds, Firefighter Foote fell ill and collapsed. Medical assistance was provided by fellow responders and Foote was transported to Cobleskill Hospital, where he later passed away of a heart attack.
Ohio: Tom Rhamey, 71 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: November 28, 2014 Death Date: November 28, 2014 Fire Department: Western Holmes County Fire and EMS–Lakeville Station Initial Summary: Firefighter-EMT Rhamey fell ill while working at the scene of a residential structure fire. Rhamey was treated and transported by Western Holmes County EMS to Wooster Community Hospital and subsequently flown to Akron City Hospital, where he remained in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit until his passing.
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Three firefighters injured at blaze in South Sacramento South Sacramento, CA. Luckily the injuries sustained by three firefighters at a fire in a two story home on 22nd Avenue on January 12th were not serious. Firefighters were dispatched at 6:23 a.m. to the structure fire at 5253 22nd Avenue. According to published reports, a "mayday" was called by the firefighters after two of the firefighters fell into the basement from the floor of the living room. The third firefighter was taken to the hospital for treatment of
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smoke inhalation. All three firefighters have since been released from the hospital. Fire Chief Walter White stated that the "injured firefighters are in good spirits." The cause and origin of the fire are under investigation by local officials. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH
SACRAMENTO FIRE DEPARTMENT
TRACEY MARTINEZ
Man dies in Rim Forest fire BOB GRAHAM
Station 28 firefighters watch over the plane wreckage as investigators look for clues.
Private plane crashes in Kearny Mesa A Mooney M20L aircraft crashed less than a mile from the end of the runway at Montgomery Field, a municipal airport in the Kearny Mesa area of San Diego. As initial reports of the crash came in, SDFD responded with an Alert 5 assignment, which is a preplanned dispatch, in response to an aircraft crash in a populated area away from the airport. That protocol allows for an automatic second alarm along with the response of the nearest Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) apparatus, Rescue 4 and paramedics. The plane, which reportedly bounced while landing, was apparently going around for another landing attempt when the pilot contacted the control tower and
JUMP TO FILE #102614127
reported that she was experiencing a problem with lift. The control tower advised her to make sure she was at full throttle, which she verified, and then announced the aircraft was going down. The plane landed in a parking area between a Costco and Target after clipping part of the Target building and knocking down a light pole. As the plane hit the ground and spun around, a fire started on the right side of the aircraft. According to San Diego police sources, employees from the Costco sprang into action and
quickly extricated the two women from the aircraft while using fire extinguishers to keep the flames at bay. As SDFD units began arriving, the fire was extinguished. Two women were on the plane, according to San Diego Fire-Rescue spokesperson Lee Swanson. Following a rapid transport to a nearby hospital, one of those women, the passenger, passed away. The pilot sustained major injuries. Two civilians sustained burns and cuts during the rescue attempt. The cause of the accident remains under investigation by the FAA. - BOB GRAHAM
On December 30, 2014 at 9:40 a.m., San Bernardino County firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire with one person possibly trapped at the 1600 block of Hazel Place in Rim Forest. Upon their arrival, the top two floors of the 1,600 square foot, three story home, were fully involved in fire. Firefighters quickly went into attack mode and tried to make entry into the home; however, were hindered by downed live power lines and the house was starting to collapse. Once firefighters were able to make entry, they found an elderly man deceased near the back door of the first floor. Eight pet birds were also found dead inside. The house is located on a steep mountainside and the fire caught surrounding vegetation and two large pine trees on fire. Firefighters were instrumental in keeping the fire from spreading
JUMP TO FILE #010215109
to the two adjacent homes. One out building was lost to the fire. Due to the steep terrain and location of the home, coupled with the narrow windy roads and increment weather, it took 37 firefighters about two hours to bring the fire under control. San Bernardino County Fire responded with six fire engines and two ambulances. Thank you to our cooperators who sent one engine and one patrol from the U.S. Forest Service, one engine from Running Springs Fire Department and one engine from CalFire. The cause of the fire has not been determined as of yet. Investigators stated the home is a complete loss, with estimates over $75,000 in damage. There were no other injuries. - TRACEY MARTINEZ
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A day in the life of a volunteer firefighter LETTERS TO THE EDITOR It's November 10th 2014, Monday morning, I was only awakened twice during the night by the radio that is being charged in its charger by my night stand. It is a beautiful fall day, with blue skies, comfortable temperatures and birds still singing their songs, delighted by the promise of another day. After a wonderful breakfast and some miss communication with my wife that leaves us both hurt, angry and unresolved, I drive thirty five minutes to work. I'm the bookkeeper and assistant minister at a family size church so I have lots of mail and paper work to sort through, bills to be paid and today I have two counseling appointments, one at 10 a.m. and the other at 12 noon. Both rather intense and incredibly rewarding. I leave the church at around 3:30 for the thirty five minute ride back home, I let my wife know that I'm on my way. About halfway home the radio pager alarm sounds and I listen to what it has to say. There are nine districts in this county and not all the alerts are for our district. I listen to see if it is for my district. “Brush fire on xxx road, tractor involved”. I attempt to contact dispatch but can't get through. It might be the hills, it might be the radio is incorrectly programmed but I don't have time to figure it out. If I'm going to respond to this fire I have to go to the fire house anyway and get my gear and vehicle. I don't have a cell phone signal, we live in a sparsely populated rural county and cell phone service is totally inadequate, so I can't contact my wife to let her know that I'm going to be delayed. I don't hear anything more about the fire on my radio. I open the fire house and call dispatch, as of yet no one has responded to the call and dispatch is about to send out a second page for fire assistance. I let her know that I am at the fire house and that I am responding to the address given. I'm a new volunteer. I've had sixteen hours of formal training on fire pumps and have had some hands on practice under our new chief. I also just completed sixteen hours of training at the Fire academy, “Chief orientation”. Our chief has had us on some practice drills but this is my first actual fire response and I can feel the adrenaline start doing it's job. I am doing a lot of self talk to calm my self down and convince myself that it will all be OK. I know that the chief is at work, he works 12 hour days and another volunteer is prob-
ably on his way to work, he works the second shift, so I take a moment to call another volunteer to see if he is available. His wife answers and tells me he is out hunting and doesn't know when he will be back. I don't want to alarm her so I don't tell her why I'm calling. I get in the brush truck thinking it is a brush fire and head out to the scene. In this rural community there are three stations that provide mutual aid and assistance to one another. This fire is actually in one of the other stations area. I hear that station respond to dispatch that they are on there way and the second station also calls in with sirens going off in the back ground that they are on there way. I know that I was probably the first one actually in a truck and heading for the fire but I'm also the furthest away and was praying that I wouldn't be the first one on the scene. As I got closer to the address I could see black smoke filtering up though the trees, it seemed like it could be a fairly good size fire. Nameless fire station was the first engine (a 1996 model) to respond and as I pulled up I could see that two volunteers were heading up this steep hill with flats to try and control the fire on the ground and that the first water line had not yet been charged so they must have just gotten there. Flynn’s lick was also on the scene. They were assisting with manpower and equipment even though they had a modern 2009 fire engine ready to be put into service. I pulled up next representing Granville and went to the IC (incident commander) and asked how I could assist. He handed me a flat and sent me up the hill. Did I say it was a steep hill? I was the fourth volunteer to climb up. Two were already beating the flames and the third was on the end of a newly pressurized 2-1/2 inch hose. When he opened the nozzle, he lost his footing and fell. Luckily, he had his hand on the nozzle shut off and was able to shut it down before it could get away from him and be out of control on the hill side. I decided that the situation could best be served if I helped the man on the hose. He tried it again with my backup and support and we were able to put out some major flames. Afterward, I took the nozzle and soaked some trees that were still smoldering to avoid a rekindle. While we were up on this hill another line had been pulled off the engine to extinguish the fully engulfed tractor that was beside this very narrow one lane rural road. - CONtINuEd ON pAGE 31
CRAIG ALLYN ROSE/WWW.EMERGENCYPHOTO.ZENFOLIO.COM
San José firefighters rescue family pet, extinguish house fire On Sunday, January 18th, 2015, at 11:42 a.m., the San José Fire Department responded to multiple reports of heavy smoke showing from a one-story residential structure at 2371 Sunny Vista Drive. Upon their arrival, San José Engine 10 confirmed a working fire with smoke and flames showing from the front of the home. Firefighters immediately stretched an attack line into place making access to the seat of the
JUMP TO FILE #012215104
fire through the front door while additional crews set about searching the structure for occupants. No one was home at the time of the blaze, but as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze a resident arrived on scene and informed crews that his miniature dachshund was in the house. Firefighters used a thermal
imaging camera to locate the family pet hiding under a bed. Five occupants of the home were displaced with the American Red Cross Silicon Valley assisting with clothing and shelter. The assignment included Battalion 10, Battalion 1, Med 30, 4B97, Engine 10, Engine 7, Engine 4, Truck 1, Truck 14, and Squad 30. - CRAIG ALLYN ROSE
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
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The Flame Within ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
The Flame Within Memoir of a Firefighter By Wayne Mutza Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 07149-1330 1-800522-8528 E-Mail: support@firepolice-ems.com www.fire-policeems.com Price: $29.95 Call it pulling no punches, all meat and potatoes, telling it like it is, holding nothing back or whatever else you want to call it, this book tells it like it is through the eyes and memory of a Milwaukee firefighter. Wayne Mutza (pronounced
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Mootza) was a gung ho firefighter who made it up to lieutenant before retiring. I actually met him back in 1977 when he was a “cub” as the MFD would refer to the least senior member of a station or a company. I was with a group of buffs from New Jersey, who flew to Milwaukee ultimately on our way to a buff convention in St. Louis, Missouri. We were spending a few days in Milwaukee before driving to Chicago and then took a train to St. Louis. Wayne, who was assigned to Engine 20 at headquarters gave us a tour of the building. He was only on the job for about a year, but I could tell he was a dedicated man to the job. Ask me how I remember his name back that far and I would have to admit that I really do not know, because there are times that I cannot remember what I had for dinner the night before! Anyway, the author gives us an unbiased account of the many years of service in which he performed in different capacities. They includes assignments to engine companies, truck companies, both busy ones and slower ones and the training division as well as details to other special units. Milwaukee, being a major city has many busy stations as well as a number of slower stations. The MFD was involved in first responder calls (medical calls) and like any other fire department, the medical calls are of a much higher volume than fire and other type calls. It is that way in all fire departments. My reasoning is that there are more people than buildings and other things to burn. A building may have more than one fire during its existence, but a person may need an ambulance many more times in comparison. So in the book you will read about mostly medical calls, accident calls and fires with byproducts such as collapses and things along that nature. There are accounts of many serious fires. The author’s imagery puts you right there in the midst of the operation. The medical calls are usually responded to when there is a life threatening situation. As you read the details of some of these calls you will see that little is left to the imagination. You will be exposed to how vicious can be to each other when they are related or not. When I first visited Milwaukee, I was impressed as it looked like a clean town. But after reading this book, I realized that this is a crime ridden city of which no one, not even emergency service personnel are exempt from abuse and disrespect. He also writes about the politics, the social problems within the department and the attitudes that make the job difficult at times to do. He also writes about his own family life and the trials and tribulations that came along with living in this society. I would recommend to anyone who takes an interest in memoirs, especially members and past members of the fire service who can closely identify with the author’s experiences.
PROVIDED
Mayor Bogaard greets new Pasadena Fire Chief Bertral Washington at City Hall on November 20th
City manager appoints new chief for Pasadena Fire Department Pasadena, CA. City Manager Michael J. Beck announced the appointment of Bertral “Bert” Washington as the new Chief for the Pasadena Fire Department. Chief Washington was expected to assume his new duties effective December 15, 2014. Chief Washington comes from the Clark County Fire Department in Nevada, where he has been Fire Chief since November 2010. Clark County serves a diverse metropolitan community of about 900,000 residents, including the unincorporated areas around Las Vegas and one of the nation’s busiest airports. Prior to serving as Clark County’s Fire Chief, he worked for Las Vegas Fire and Rescue moving through the ranks as a firefighter, paramedic, training officer, Captain, Battalion Chief and Assistant Chief. “Chief Washington’s collaborative leadership style, his experience leading a complex organization and professional training made him the top choice,” City Manager Michael J. Beck said. “Our selection process allowed us to look at many outstanding candidates from across the country and Chief Washington clearly stood out as the best match to lead the Pasadena Fire Department.” Chief Washington said returning to Southern California and working for Pasadena “is a dream come true for my family and me.” “I am honored to become part of the City of Pasadena family, one of the most esteemed cities in the nation. I look forward to serving all of the residents, businesses and visitors with the highly regarded men and women of the
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Pasadena Fire Department and working with the community wherever we can to enhance our city in a variety of ways,” Chief Washington said. Chief Washington has a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in English from Howard University and an associate’s degree in fire science management from the College of Southern Nevada. He is married to Cheri
Washington and has a son, Chandler, 13, and a daughter, Blaire, 11. The fire chief’s top salary is about $228,000 per year, according to information posted on the City’s website. Contract terms will be finalized prior to the onset of his formal duties. Chief Washington replaces Fire Chief Calvin E. Wells, who joined the Pasadena Fire Department in 1979 and has served in numerous positions during his distinguished, 35-year fire service career. Chief Wells retires at the end of 2014. - CITY OF PASADENA
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
TRACEY MARTINEZ
Hesperia Fire Protection District
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Character and integrity in today’s fire and EMS service STAYING SAFE Chief Henry Campbell
It seems that almost on a daily basis when reading a newspaper or online fire service news report there is a member of the fire or EMS service who has managed to become one of that day’s news headlines. The headline blaring the infraction or crime that has supposedly occurred somewhere across our nation and for which the individual has been charged. These offenses cover a vast variety of lifestyles and laws from alcohol and drugs to misdemeanors to felonies; DWI, theft, assault, theft, including stealing secured drugs from ambulances and stocked supply, and a variety of sexual related offenses. They all make their way into the news headlines and bring an embarrassment to the fire and EMS services and the majority of good people, who perform and produce an invaluable service every day protecting life and property. Did these problems exist years ago, or are they a phenomenon of our present and ever changing social culture? I know they existed, though maybe not in the numbers as they do today. Also, 25 years ago there was no news reporting as it exists today with almost immediate coverage of any form of issue that may even seem like news. Social networking provides an instantaneous form of good and bad news as well as video recordings of the incident being reported. Anyone with a cell phone and social network can become a news reporter, providing up to the minute reports that will be picked up and rebroadcast in seconds. Before you know it you can have your name and picture posted around the globe, becoming either a hero or a goat. In moments of weakness, there are some members, who do their own social networking, which can bring embarrassment and humiliation to other members, their department, or municipality. Irresponsible messages may lead to department investigations and prosecution for which these members will be held accountable for their postings on the social network. Be careful of what you post and aware that it may insult or defame someone. After the fact, self-embarrassment and weak apologies are generally dismissed as too little too late. That one moment of anger may come with repercussions lead-
ing to department discipline resulting in discharge from the department, and civil lawsuits and/or criminal charges. What has happened to one’s conscience that discerns right from wrong? Has integrity and moral values, the staunch guardians of our conscience and our actions, disappeared? Does one believe he/she can say and do as they please under freedom of speech? Does one think he/she can commit illegal and criminal acts and not face repercussion? Department rules and regulations tend to keep most members with weak moral values in line, but it is the individual personal character and conscience that should be the guiding light, the moral compass. We perform our daily functions as members of a team and those team operations rely on the trust and respect we have for each other. The About.com web site, http://humanresources.about.com/, defines integrity, the type of integrity we would like to see in all fellow employees and members: “Integrity is one of the fundamental values that employers seek in the employees that they hire. It is the hallmark of a person who demonstrates sound moral and ethical principles at work. “A person who has integrity lives his or her values in relationships with coworkers, customers, and stakeholders. Honesty and trust are central to integrity. Acting with honor and truthfulness are also basic tenets in a person with integrity. “People who demonstrate integrity draw others to them because they are trustworthy and dependable. They are principled and can be counted on to behave in honorable ways even when no one is watching.” As members of the emergency services we have always been held to a higher standard, one that has elevated us from the ordinary citizen, a position in which the public expects us to be honest and trustworthy individuals who extol those virtues as described in the above definition of integrity. We are in a service that requires compassion, trust, responsibility and respect for others; all these personal traits are what mold our character and integrity. A few years ago I received the following poem, author unknown: Destiny Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. Till next time stay safe and God Bless!
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Second alarm pallet yard fire Firefighters responded to a second alarm commercial fire at a pallet yard located on the 13700 block of Santa Ana Ave. in Fontana on Thursday, November 27th at 9:55 p.m. Initial reports stated there were explosions coming from within the pallet yard. Upon arrival minutes later, firefighters found numerous stacks of pallets, some as high as 30 feet, encompassing about four acres, fully engulfed in fire. The business was surrounded on two sides by approximately 30 tractor trailers containing various type cargo. A tractor trailer was burning very close to a single story residence and was spreading towards an adjacent business. Firefighters quickly took action to keep the fire from reaching the home and adjacent commercial tire business. The battle continued as the fire spread into rows of large size tires used on commercial grade heavy equipment. Firefighters had to used Class B foam to extinguish the tire fires. Within two and a half hours, over 65 firefighters from San Bernardino County Fire and partnering fire agencies (Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Rialto, Upland and San Bernardino City) had the fire under control. The explosions were found to be coming from
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propane tanks and acetylene cylinders. A Fontana police officer arrived on scene shortly after the fire erupted and was able to alert the sole occupant of the residence located to the front of the business and bring him to safety. The resident had been sleeping and was unaware of how dangerously close the fire came to the back side of the home. A firefighter sustained a non life-threatening injury and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. There were no injuries to civilians or further evacuations. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by San Bernardino County Fire investigators. The Thanksgiving second alarm fire destroyed the pallet yard, including a workshop on the premises, as well as several tractor trailers and caused minor damage to a residence and moderate damage to the tire company. Firefighters are credited with saving well over $2 million in property and content. Preliminary fire damage and loss is estimated at over $3 million. Surrounding roads were closed until the early
TRACEY MARTINEZ
morning hours. San Bernardino County Fire Inmate Hand Crew 15-2, as well as a county fire dozer, responded to the scene for overhaul and mop
up operations, relieving firefighters and medic engines to return back to service. Numerous piles of pallets and other materials have to be broken up to make sure all
fire was extinguished. Crews were expected to be on scene throughout the morning.
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Jan/Feb, 2015
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - CA
DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
VENTURA COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Spark of Love softball tournament On Tuesday, December 9th, the VCPFA Softball Team competed in a Spark of Love softball tournament in Mira Loma at the Big League Dreams Sports Complex. Toys collected from this event are given to underprivileged children across the southland. Eight fire department teams competed in this tournament. They included Ventura County FD, L.A. City FD, Orange County FD, Riverside FD, Murrieta FD, San Bernardino City FD, Redlands FD and Chula Vista FD. The VCPFA Softball Team went undefeated, 5-0, to capture
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the championship! The least amount of runs scored in any of the five games was 17! This is the second Spark of Love Championship for the team since the tournament’s inception. In 2015, the VCPFA Softball Team will be traveling across the Western United States competing in numerous charity events against other fire agencies. - VENTURA COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT
PROVIDED
The City of Fontana celebrated the groundbreaking of the new and improved Fire Station No. 73, located at 8143 Banana Ave in Fontana, CA. The new station will improve response times and provide efficient delivery of emergency medical and fire service throughout the growth and build out of this portion of the city. The event was hosted by City of Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren, in attendance; The Fontana City Council, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors-Janice Rutherford, San Bernardino County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig, Division Chief Jon McLinn, and Fontana Police Chief Rodney Jones. The approximately 7,000 square foot facility will replace a station built in 1960 and house a paramedic engine, hazardous materials response units and have space for six firefighters.
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by FF1 Professional Safety Services The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our February editions from FF1 Professional Safety Services is a 5.11® Tactical Job Shirt with the new FF1 logo. Our January editions winner of a 5.11® Water Repellent Job Shirt from SAFE-T was Edan Davis from New Jersey. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212.
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The heart of the matter Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh
So what is the symbol of February? It is the heart, usually a red heart. It is usually the symbol for the love and devotion that we have for a love, or someone that we have strong feelings for, a spouse, or a girlfiend or boyfriend, or someone that we ask to be our valentine. Do you remember when you were a child you would hand them out in grammar school? But let's take a look at the heart through the eyes of a firefighter. We know that heart disease is the number one killer of firefighters. I think that nobody will dispute that fact. Throughout our entire careers, we will continue to hear that. There is so much work and research that was done to prove that point. Heart disease will get us. I have seen it affect firefighters of all age groups; the old, middle-aged and also the young. So what can we do to help keep our hearts in good working condition? Eat right, exercise, and relieve stress. Hmm, relieve stress. Chew on that for a minute. But firefighting is stressful and so is being around a firehouse. We will come back to that. Did you think that I would forget to mention to get proper check ups and go for your stress tests? When was the last time that you had your heart checked? Why? Have the firefighters in New Jersey not checked into the Captain Buscio program? Check it out for yourself at http://www.captainsgift.com/ You will be amazed at who you will meet there. Do the brothers in other states have similar opportunities? I met a few brothers from some paid departments. Once they go there, the referaal to others becomes so easy. I met an experienced firefighter, who told his son, who just joined a paid department, to get checked out every year, and the son was in his twenties. Imagine that, the father was giving his son a way to take care of himself. There are so many ways that we can take care of our heart. Did you know that stress can kill? Yes, I know that there is good stress and bad stress. Let's take a look at Critical Incident Stress, for a moment. Some of the signs are: chest pain, elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing. What is this starting to sound like? Does any of this sound a little like a heart attack? Don't believe me? Google it for yourself. So what can we do about reducing our stress on our heart? Did you ever think of meditating?
A friend that I know also thought about writing in a journal. How about praying, reading, running, martial arts, yoga? What is the thing that works for you? We also have stress that sits and festers. We may be ticked off at some people or situations. Maybe you did not get that promotion. Maybe a person at work or the firehouse really gets under your skin. Maybe you do not like what is going on and it eats at you. Maybe the sight of someone raises your temper. Maybe you have problems with your wife, exwife, or girlfriend. Maybe someone is your arch nemisis, like Lex Luther to you being Superman. This will add to stress onto your heart. Maybe you enjoy getting mad. Why? Are you willing to die because you want to hold a grudge against someone? The other person may not even know or care that you are holding a grudge at them. So what are you going to do about it? Choose to live. A book that I read tells us that we are to forgive our people. Forgive them seventy times seven times. But also that we are to pray for those that persecute us. We are to actually love our enemies and do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Yeah, I know what you're thinking, Chappy don't give me that religion stuff. Ok, I won't give it to you in religion. I listened to a very courageous Marine of the 1st Recon Battalion in Vietnam, Clebe McClary. He said something that stayed with me, "FIDO". This is not a dog, but Forget It and Drive On. We need to forget the garbage that people do. If we do not, it will sit in us and do its damage to our heart. Do not give that other person that much control of your life. Refuse to be a victim. Rise above it. Forgive them and pray for them. Forgiveness is a very powerful medicine. Can you imagine what would happen if your ex-wife knew that you forgave her? Can you imagine what would happen to the person, who is trying to get under your skin and loves watching you blow up, if they found out that you forgave them? Release the emotional toxins in your body. Forgive and do good things for your enemy. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Try it. You may be pleasantly surprised. You may find even more good things will come your way. Would you be willing to do it if it meant that you might live longer? Is it worth seeing your kids grow up? Or keeping your spouse? Or enjoying life even more? My brothers, take care of your heart every way that you can.
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Jan/Feb, 2015
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Esta ablishe ed home-lending hom me-lend ding program prrogram m Established will benefit responders b benefit Calif. Califf. first first respon nders Heroe ge expands expand ds its services vices to West West Coastt Heroess Mortgage An established home-lending hom me-lending mortgage marketing program, that thhat has been available only on the East Coast, Coastt, is now expanding to California. The Heroes Heroees Mortgage Program Âą ZKLFK KDV ORQJ VHUYHG SROLFH ÂżUHÂżJKWHUV Âą ZKLFK KDV ORQJ VHUYHG SROLFH ÂżUHÂżJKWHUV medical professionals, professionalss, military personnel and vete rans EMS and rans, annd educators educators – is conconveterans, necting select participating particiipating lenders with these service-oriented buyers to offer offfer fer excluexclu VLYH EHQHÂżWV Heroes can expect from rom participati ng lendlendparticipating ers low interest rates, minimal lender fees, and a promise to get into innto their new home by FRQWUDFW GDWH &RVW HIIIHFWLYH I UHÂżQDQFLQJ RSFRQWUDFW GDWH &RVW HIIHFWLYH UHÂżQDQFLQJ RStions are also available through these lenders. Heroes Mortgage Pro ogram, in conjunction Program, with its participating lenders, l indushas an industry reputation of treat ting these community treating service members withh dignity and respect throughout the entire hhome-buying process. “W We are honored to be b serving and working “We with the true heroes of our ur community ,â€? 1st ReRecommunity,â€? sponder Newspaper Pub blisher Joseph P P.. Belsito Publisher VDLG Âł)LUHÂżJKWHUV DQG RWKHU PHPEHUV RI WKH WKH emer rgency services community com mmunity are an impor r-emergency important part of the fabric of our society society.. They are always there for us, always ays on call. This is just a way to give back to them m and their families. We We are certainlyy excited about abbout the Heroes MortMortgage Program and expec ct it to grow .â€? . expect grow.â€? Through Heroes Mortgage ortgage Program’s Program’s acaccompanying website, prospective buyers will have access to powerful owerful tools provided by our lenders to help get started, such as a national MLS search, and a Buying Power feature that will help calculate alculate precisely what he can af fford. ford. afford. The resources of ourr participating lenders are making the processs even easier Groundeasier.. GroundEUHDNHUV LQ VWDWH RI WKH DUW VWDWH RI WKHH DUW ÂżQDQFLQJ VHUYLFVHUYLFes, these lenders offer offfe ferr new innovations to those seeking their mortgage. m conWhen connected through Heroes Heroes Mortgage Program, the buyer can rest assured ssured that he or she will receive the utmostt respect and attention throughout the entire pprocess. rocess. The experience of Heroes H Mortgage Program’ participating lenders, lennders, along with their gram’ss participating dedication to helping those hose in the service-oriservice-ori-
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radition of commitment tto o the „ TTradition heroe es in the community. community. heroes w interest interest rat es „ Lo Low rates nimal lending ffees ees „ Min Minimal „ &RVW HIIHFWLYH UHÀQDQFLQJ „ &RV VW HIIH HFWLYH UHÀQDQFLQJ novative online ttools ools „ Inn Innovative „ ([S SHULHQFHG ZLWK 9 $ EHQHÀW 9$ WV „ ([SHULHQFHG ZLWK 9$ EHQHÀWV o omise to close by by the „ Pr Promise to contra act date date contract ented community c oward will go a long way toward paving the road to home ownership. Those T interest ted in the program can call (877)) 541interested HERO or visit heroesmortgageprogram.com. m.com.
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
PATCHES If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
PROVIDED
San Bernardino County fire welcomes new firefighter paramedics A total of 28 recruits made the transition from cadet to professional firefighter/paramedic following a graduation ceremony for the members of Tower V, County Fire’s recent new-hire training academy. The cadets, each of whom underwent an intense ten week training program with instruction in firefighting, rescue and EMS, stood as a loved one pinned their newly-earned badge as County Fire staff members, including Fire Chief Mark Hartwig, looked on. Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren was among the dignitaries who spoke during the ceremony. She wished the group safe and successful careers, and said the prayers of many were with each of them. The proceedings began with a
JUMP TO FILE #111714107
performance by the San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters Local 935 Pipes and Drums band. The recruits, comprising 27 males and one female, now begin a year-long probationary period as they fan out to station assignments throughout County Fire’s jurisdiction. The group, whose members hail from throughout Southern California, were praised for their dedication and efforts throughout the tower’s training period. The group represents the first batch of new full-time firefighter hires by County Fire in nearly five years, and will help replenish ranks left thin as a number of fire-
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He had a hilarious sense of wit, “the guy was all humor, even to his last days he was cracking jokes,” said Retired Fire Captain and co-worker Bill Rose. Tracy was commended for an off duty field save in 1990 after performing CPR for 90 minutes while riding a train. Tracy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home in Penryn, CA. Tracy was an avid fisherman, scout leader and enjoyed the out-
Arcata Fire Protection District, Arcata, CA
fighters have promoted or retired. Following is a list of the new firefighter/paramedics and where they’ll be stationed: Adelanto: James Schiller, Daniel Carmichael, David Pingree; Fontana: Nicholas Greenlee, Brandon McGarvey, Mark Howder, David Remery, David Serrano, Jesse Vasquez, Matthew Balteria, Chris Adams-Snape; Hesperia: Ben Gradias, Jeremy Castanon, Kerry Crivello Joshua Tree: Richard Huntling, Brandon Miller, Michael Bruce; Phelan: George Tom, Jared Kurtz, Kent Meeker; Twin Peaks: Brian Bement, Roger Stocker, Scott Albright; Victorville: Andrew Banninger, William Carlson; and Yucca Valley: Russel Warren, Joseph Oehlhof, Landon Pupka - RYAN BECKERS
Retired Roseville Fire Captain dies of occupational cancer December 27, 2014. Retired Fire Captain Tracy Chimenti passed away after a courageous battle with occupational cancer. Tracy was 54 years old and leaves behind his wife, Karen, and 13-year-old son, Ben. Tracy began his career with the City of Roseville Fire Department as a firefighter in 1982. He was promoted to engineer in 1987 and then to captain in 1996. Tracy served the citizens of Roseville for 28 years before retiring in December of 2010. Tracy was known for his kind nature and dedication to the job.
ARCATA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
doors. Tracy will be greatly missed and remembered by his family, friends, and co-workers. Services for Ret. Fire Captain Chimenti were held on Saturday, January 3rd at 11:00 a.m. at Hillside Christian Church (formerly Adventure Christian Church) located at 6401 Stanford Ranch Road, Roseville, CA 95678. Donations can be made to: Roseville Firefighters Charity c/0 Chimenti Family PO Box 638 Roseville, CA 95678 Tax ID # 946130-865 - ROB BAQUERA
SUSANVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PAgE 23
Family displaced and two dogs rescued
PATCHES If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
On January 20, 2015 at 12:40 p.m., the San Diego Fire Department was alerted to a fire at 3811 Wildwood Road in Pt. Loma. Multiple calls were advising firefighters of the fire. JUMP TO FILE # F i r e f i g h t e r s 012115101 arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and fire from the roof of a one story residence. The knockdown on the blaze3 was made difficult due to a small void space/bedroom that appeared was the origin. The blaze was fully extinguished in about 50 minutes and in the process, two small dogs were rescued. No injuries were reported by residents or first responders. The family was displaced and damage estimates are approximately $300,000. The cause of the fire is accidental and undetermined. - JOSEPH AMADOR
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Los Angeles County Fire Department mourns one of its own Los Angeles, CA. Los Angeles County Fire Department Ocean Lifeguard Specialist Brian Kutil, age 42, died on January 15 during a recertification swim exercise. At 7:01 a.m., Kutil, who is a 20year veteran of the Lifeguard Division, JUMP TO FILE # died during the 011515111 annual 500-meter recertification swim exercise at Mira Costa High School in the City of Manhattan Beach. Kutil was immediately treated by L.A. County lifeguards, along with Manhattan Beach Fire Department paramedics, and transported to Little Company of Mary Hospital. Officials said that despite heroic efforts by all involved, he was pronounced dead. “All of us are shocked by this terrible early morning news,” said Fire Chief Daryl L. Osby.
REDLANDS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Redlands battles two structure fires PHOTO COURTESY OF LAFD
“Our hearts go out to his family, friends and his fire department family. Please keep everyone in your thoughts as we mourn his tragic loss.” - BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY!
Redlands, CA. Firefighters battled a pair of unrelated structure fires Monday. No injuries were reported in either blaze. At about 10:15 a.m. on Monday, December 29th, firefighters responded to a structure fire at a mobile home park at 450 Judson St. Firefighters arrived to find a double-wide mobile home well involved with fire. An aggressive interior attack was initiated, but heavy fire and smoke conditions drove firefighters out until the flames could be beaten back from the outside. Firefighters then reentered the structure and were able to bring the flames under control within 20 minutes. The Red Cross was called to assist the female homeowner with shelter and clothing needs. The
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fire was caused by an unattended candle. Damage is estimated at approximately $90,000 in property and contents. Four engine companies, including one from San Bernardino County Fire, one truck company, one medic squad and a Battalion Chief along with an AMR ambulance crew responded. Redlands Police provided traffic and crowd control. Shortly before 2:30 p.m. Monday, Firefighters responded to an apartment fire at a complex at 87 Tennessee St. The first engine company found heavy smoke coming from a single apartment unit. Due to the
threat to adjacent apartments and the values at risk, a second alarm assignment was requested, but cancelled prior to arrival. Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control within 15 minutes, limiting damage to the single apartment, which sustained heavy fire and smoke damage. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours performing mop-up. The cause of the fire was determined to be a heating appliance. Damages were estimated at $75,000. Four engine companies, one truck company, one medic squad and a Battalion Chief responded. Redlands Police assisted with traffic and crowd control. - REDLANDS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to heather@1strespondernews.com BOB GRAHAM
San Diego spreads Christmas cheer San Diego City Firefighters IAFF Local 145 continued building on a yearly tradition, which has passed the 20 year milestone, according to Denise Pendleton, Director of Operations for the local. Working with the San Diego City Schools, the firefighters handed out the staples for a traditional holiday meal to pre-selected families. This year, firefighters and volunteers handed out close to 350 turkeys and bags of potatoes to grateful families at Stations 17 and 19. Not content with just a holiday meal, San Diego Fire Department firefighters have been working all year to provide Santa with transportation via a fire engine as he made a stop in San Diego to deliver Christmas presents to a number of selected families closer to December 25th. Following behind Santa was a truck filled with toys and goodies for children in the neighborhoods, where Santa makes his stops.
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Jan/Feb, 2015
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
FACES OF CALIFORNIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your photos in the newspaper, upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
REDLANDS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire Marshal Phil Gairson, Admin Assistant Diane Rivera-Sedgewick, Admin Assistant Maria Koolhoven, Fire Chief Jeff Frazier and QI RN Rob Tyson of the Redlands Fire Department
CALIFORNIA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
The California City Fire Department, California City Police Department, California Department of Corrections with volunteers assisted Santa Clause with Code 3 deliveries of presents and other needed items to special need and hardship families.
BOB GRAHAM
A group of firefighters stop for a moment
BOB GRAHAM
Firefighters and volunteers spent a busy morning at Station 17.
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1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Jan/Feb, 2015
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
CALIFORNIA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
California City responds to small brush fire The California City Fire Department responded to a small brush fire in the area of Rusche and Poppy Blvd that was rapidly extinguished on December 25th. The fire was investigated by California City Fire Department Arson Investigators and two arson suspects were rapidly apprehended. Both suspects admitted to starting the fire and are being brought to justice. The two suspects were unattended children. This fire grew rapidly and could have claimed the lives of these children.
ARCATA FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
PATCHES If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
EUGENE WEBER JR. BOB GRAHAM
Edwards Air Force Base Fire Department
SDFD crews stand by after snuffing flames before starting overhaul.
San Diego snuffs garage fire A large header rose into the afternoon sky prior to the first caller alerting San Diego Fire Department to the garage fire at 5043 Gardena Avenue in the Bay Park neighborhood of San Diego at 4:58 p.m. on October 25th Responding units were advised that callers were reporting a fully engulfed structure. Engine 25 was the first in engine and its crew quickly commenced the fire attack. The remainder of the assignment consisted of Battalion Chiefs LaMantia and Nilsen, Engines 8, 15, 20 and 23, Truck 20 and Medic units 11 and 61.
JUMP TO FILE #102714100
With multiple apparatus arriving, one engine crew was quickly assigned as the RIC team as multiple hose lines were deployed to bring the flames under control. A large tree overhanging the garage and thick vegetation behind the structure hinted at a much larger fire if crews could not contain the flames quickly. The interior of the garage was packed with possessions and while heavily damaged, SDFD crews
were able to keep the flames confined to the structure, with eves on the A side suffering flame damage as the fire tried to grow. With the flames extinguished, SDFD crews began overhaul as arson investigators arrived. They determined the cause of the fire to be accidental/undetermined and listed smoking or a candle fire inside the garage as the source of ignition. Damage to the structure was set at $100,000 with the contents damage coming in at $50,000. The incident was closed at 7:15 p.m.
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IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com. ®
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1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Jan/Feb, 2015
Page 31
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PAGE 32
Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
TRACEY MARTINEZ
JOSEPH AMADOR
Apartment fire in San Diego On December 30, 2015 at 12:10 p.m. (FS14156393) firefighters were alerted to 4658 Hamilton Ave. (University Heights) Multiple calls to San Diego Fire Department reported a structure fire. Crews arrived on scene to a two story apartment complex with smoke from a lower unit. Initial attack was made and the blaze was knockdown within ten minutes. Firefighters kept the fire from spreading to adjacent units. No one was in the apartment at the time of the fire nor were there any injuries. San Diego Red Cross assisted with the two displaced victims. Approximately $30,000 in damages was reported.
Snowstorm strands motorists across mountains A cold winter storm that brought heavy snow to the San Bernardino Mountains crippled motorists traveling between the High Desert and mountain communities late Tuesday evening, December 30th, leading to a widespread rescue effort by firefighters near the communities of Crestline and Mt. Baldy that went on into early Wednesday morning. Near Crestline, a total of 136 motorists in dozens of vehicles became stranded on the steep, snowy switchbacks on State Highway 138 from one mile north of Old Mill Road to Pilot Rock. As motorists quickly discovered they were stuck, calls came in to County Fire for rescue. An incident command post was established, and County Fire
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crews from the High Desert, Crest Forest and Lake Arrowhead began to count the stranded and check for injuries. No serious collisions or medical emergencies were initially reported. A total of 50 rescued persons were eventually sheltered at the First Baptist Church in Crestline. Red Cross personnel were eventually able to reach them to provide comfort supplies. Some motorists were either able to eventually drive away as plows cleared snow on the periphery of the incident. Still others abandoned their vehicles and walked to shelter or were able to reach their homes. County Fire Snow-Cat appa-
ratus, similar to the machines often seen grooming ski trails, were used to navigate the snowy roads. Staffed with firefighter/paramedics, these crews began to retrieve the stranded. Approximately 25 people were stranded near the Mt. Baldy ski area. Meanwhile, near Mt. Baldy Village, another two dozen motorists awaited rescue. Eventually a total of 40 persons were sheltered at Mt. Baldy Lodge. Others were shuttled down the hill to Fire Station 12 in San Antonio Heights as a more permanent shelter was established. Rescue operations were completed by 3:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 31st. - TRACEY MARTINEZ
DEPARTMENT PROFILES If you have photos you would like to see in our Department ProďŹ les feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
HANFORD PUBLIC SAFETY
Hanford helps out Santa Hanford Fire Department's Engine 2 helped Santa out at the Breakfast with Santa and toy giveaway event at the Longfield Center on December 20, 2014.
YREKA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Yreka City Fire Department provides ďŹ re protection and emergency medical services for the city of Yreka
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Jan/Feb, 2015
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
CALIFORNIA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Motor vehicle accident for California City On Decembe 21, 2014 at 12:43 a.m., the California City Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle accident on Cal City Blvd. east of the train tracks. Medic Engine 190 arrived on scene to find a passenger vehicle on its side in the desert north of the Boulevard. There were two occupants in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Both occupants were wearing their seat belts and remained in the vehicle while it was flipping over. After the crash, the two occupants climbed out of the vehicle. They both suffered minor injuries and declined transport to the hospital. We were assisted by Cal City Police, Kern County Fire Department, Hall Ambulance and Mercy Air. Cal City Police Department is investigating the cause of the accident.
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Vehicle fire destroys carport, damages apartments On Wednesday, January 14, 2015, at 5:16 p.m., units of the San JosĂŠ Fire Department responded to reports of multiple vehicles burning in an apartment carport with fire extending to the adjacent structure. As crews made their way to the scene, a column of smoke could be seen rising from the area prompting Battalion 10 to strike a
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precautionary second-alarm. The first firefighters to arrive dropped attack lines after confirming that three vehicles and the carport were heavily involved in fire. A rapid attack kept the major-
ity of the fire confined to the carport and vehicles with only minor damage done to apartment units. Units assigned were Battalion 10, Battalion 1, Battalion 2, Battalion 29, 4B93, Engine 14, Engine 10, Engine 15, Engine 4, Engine 7, Truck 14, Truck 30, Truck 9, Squad 30, and Squad 26. - CRAIG ALLYN ROSE
PHOTO 50
Car fire for San Rafael San Rafael, CA. Firefighters in San Rafael were dispatched to an early morning car fire in Marin Square. Engine 54 B shift quickly extinguished the flames.
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Jan/Feb, 2015
1st Responder Newspaper - CA
Apartment fire with fatality On January 9, 2015 at 11:25 p.m., San Diego Fire Department crews were dispatched to 3515 Caminito El Rincon #1 in Del Mar/Carmel Valley. SDFD crews arrived on scene to find a two story JUMP TO FILE # apartment building 011215124 with smoke and flames from the bottom unit. An aggressive attack was made to keep the fire from spreading to adjoining units and was eventually knocked down in about ten minutes. During the blaze, firefighterss discovered and rescued one victim with critical burns. The male adult was quickly transported to UCSD Burn Center, where he did not survive his injuries. No firefighters were injured at the blaze and the damages are approximately $20,000.
MUTUAL AID Gordon Wren
- JOSEPH AMADOR
JOSEPH AMADOR
Have you noticed how law enforcement has adopted and are increasing the use of dash cams and related devices? They even have television shows, showing the dumb things that people do. For whatever reasons, the fire service has been very slow to wrap their arms around this new technology. In fact, a friend recently sent me an article where an Australian firefighter got in trouble with the bosses in his department for capturing eight minutes of "GoPro" helmet camera footage at a serious fire. It sounds like he may have gotten in trouble for uploading the footage to YouTube, where thousands of viewers could observe first hand the dangers of firefighting. I am aware of some departments, who purchase these miniature cameras and then use them afterwards for training and afteraction reviews. Seeing actual footage of the fire certainly adds to the quality of a training session or an AAR. Recently, one of our young, aggressive interior firefighters/officers purchased one of these units at his own expense and turned it on as he and a team of firefighters entered a condominium complex that was well involved in a working fire. It shows the firefighters' advancing up to the second floor, discovering heavy fire above them, and then records a very
loud bang that sounded like a pistol shot. Afterward, when the smoke had cleared, they discovered that the firefighters in question had made it through a near miss. The camera actually recorded a small explosion and a projectile, passing near the firefighters. When they looked at the area, they discovered that the collapsible stairs to the attic did not have the usual springs, but had pressurized struts, similar to what you find installed on the hatchback door of a vehicle. When it exploded, a metal rod a few inches long went across the hallway and through the sheetrock of the wall. There are, of course, concerns about liability and sharing footage outside your own department. In the case of our local firefighter, the footage was used as part of a discussion of emergencies for the month at our local Rockland County Fire Chiefs' Association Meeting. One of our Deputy Fire Coordinators was part of the interior team and co-authored an article on this event for Fire Engineering Magazine, where the information was shared all over the world. This new technology, which is really not that new, can be a tremendous aid if it is handled properly. Hopefully, we will catch up with law enforcement in the years to come.
JEFF ALLEN
Fatal traffic accident in Mt. Baldy At approximately 10:30 a.m. on October 25, 2014, units from San Bernardino County Fire responded to a “walk-in report” at Station 200 in Mt Baldy of a roll over vehicle accident in Ice House Canyon. A bicyclist reported a vehicle came through the brush and landed on the roadway. The first arriving units discovered a vehicle had veered off of Mt Baldy Road and came to rest approximately 700 feet below. The driver, and only occupant,
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was ejected from the vehicle and was determined dead in the field by San Bernardino County Fire paramedics. The driver was discovered in a steep and heavily wooded area between the switch backs of Mt Baldy Rd. Access to the body for the coroner was made possible by cooperation from US Forest Service and San Bernardino
County Fire Glen Helen hand crew. A five foot wide path was cut out of the brush to gain ground access. Use of the path to remove the deceased was not safe and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department helicopter hoisted the body of the deceased for transport to a waiting coroner vehicle. The name of the deceased was not available at the time of this release. - KYLE HAUDUCOEUR
STEVE WHITE
Metal rod discovered after a recent near-miss during a structure fire.
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Kelly named interim fire chief The City of Roseville has named Brian Kelly the Interim Fire Chief. Chief Kelly will fill the top spot in the fire department on a temporary basis while the search for a perma- JUMP TO FILE # nent chief contin- 080713101 ues. Chief Kelly has over 35 years of experience in the fire service, including over 20 years as fire chief of three California Fire Departments. He was the Fire Chief and Emergency Services Director in the City of Millbrae for 12 years, the City of Union City for three years, and the City of San Mateo for five years. He also served as the Fire
Marshal of Sonoma County for three years. Chief Kelly retired in 2008 from the City of San Mateo and has remained actively engaged in regional and national projects to enhance the emergency response readiness of the fire service. He has also served as interim fire chief at two fire departments: Stanislaus Consolidated Fire Protection District and the National Park Service Fire Department at the Presidio of San Francisco. Chief Kelly’s first day was Monday, January 5. Chief Kelly will lead the department while the city goes through the process of identifying and interviewing candidates for the permanent fire chief position.
CHELLE CORDERO
- ROB BAQUERA
9/11 remembered in San Diego The 9/11 attacks on America took place thirteen years ago. It’s said that time causes the past to fade, but that was not the case in San Diego as over a thousand firefighters, police officers, military service members, fire and police support staff along with civilians from throughout southern California gathered to remember that day and those lost with the annual San Diego Memorial Stair Climb, con- JUMP TO FILE # ducted by the San 091214104 Diego Fireman’s Relief Association. Opening ceremonies included renditions of the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America. United States Navy Seals parachuted in to present the American flag to all present. A prayer remembered those lost. San Diego Fire-Rescue’s Copter 2 performed a flyby. Former Navy Seal, Lalo Roberti, who took part in Operation Red Wings was the keynote speaker, reminding all of the important things that America has to offer and is all about. The climb commenced at 8:46 a.m., coinciding with the time that the first plane hit the World Trade Center in New York. For more than three hours, the west stairwell of the San Diego Hilton Bayfront Hotel saw a steady stream of climbers reaching the top floor, descending by elevator and making the climb again, until each climber reached a total of 110 flights. A number of climbers brought their children. As the climb drew to a close, a firefighter who completed the climb, Dylan Dabasinskas, surprised the crowd by taking over the microphone on the stage used during the opening ceremonies. He proceeded to ask his girlfriend,
Keeping the troops happy EMS ISSUES
PROVIDED
BOB GRAHAM
PAGE 37
The problem is becoming more and more prevalent across the country and it belongs to both volunteer and paid services; recruitment and retention is a key issue to the success of EMS agencies. Many agencies spend a lot of time and effort into attracting new members through volunteer retention drives, salary incentives, and various benefits and perks — unfortunately little to no effort is put into retaining members. New members like to feel included. Mentoring programs help new employees learn the ropes of the agency and will add to their comfort level as they do their job. EMS leaders need to choose mentors who have demonstrated the ideals of the agency and will be able to impart those principles to newer members. Offering a mentoring program does more than train new members, it also enforces the concept of team work and makes the mentor partner feel valued and respected for their role in the agency. When possible, social activities also increase the feeling of belonging. Members feel happier about coming to work when they feel they have “friendships” and will tend to feel more loyal to their place of business. Members should feel appreciated; appreciation can come in many ways, salary and bonus incentives can be used for paid EMS members, recognition and rewards (small gift cards, etc) can be used for all. Offering education, uniforms, personal equipment, health benefits and (reduced) membership at gyms and such are also great incentives and should be offered as they can be afforded. Local communities may be able to help with some of the “perks” in volunteer situations. Length of Service Award Programs (LOSAP) are another great incentive for volunteer members. Payback on most incentives is often worth more than the investment and is certainly worth consideration.
Even though it may seem that a member who has already quit isn’t priority when it comes to your recruitment and retention programs, they can be a terrific source of helpful information. Each employee upon leaving should be requested to sit for an exit interview, the interview probably shouldn’t be mandated but can be conveniently timed as the member turns in their equipment or picks up a final paycheck. You’ll want to ask the former member for honest help in identifying the problem areas at your agency, specifically why they left and what might have made them want to stay. It’s important to collect and compare a number of exit surveys to get a good idea of road blocks and disincentives. When people spend a lot of time caring for others in crisis situations, it puts stress on the emotional well-being, if they feel undervalued and taken for granted it may lead to burnout. If exit interviews mention consistent personality problems with a specific individual then perhaps it is time to have an informal discussion with that person or perhaps a change in responsibility. A common complaint with both paid and volunteer services is an inconsistency with the way employees are treated or corrected; everyone has to live by the same rules. Note the employee’s work and educational level, years of service (in and out of your agency), salary/benefits, the amount of time devoted to the position (daily/weekly), and supervisor evaluations. Understand that problems may not stem from anything work related, but may be more personal… in this case was there anything the agency could have done to make things easier (such as scheduling, etc)? When you have a list of problem areas, speak with other agency supervisors and employees for suggestions to fix these problems. Allow employees to make anonymous suggestions or register complaints in a safe manner. When EMS members are allowed to work and learn their jobs, are encouraged to continue their education, and are treated with dignity, they are more likely to give back to the agency in effort, skill and loyalty
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A firefighter makes it to the top floor carrying the American flag.
Sierra Lawrence, who had climbed with him and had no clue what was coming, to marry him. She said yes. On September 11, 2001, 343 FDNY firefighters, 23 NYPD police officers, 37 Port Authority officers and 16 EMT’s were killed. 2,606 people were lost as the World Trade Center buildings collapsed. In the Pentagon, 125 peo-
ple were killed. In the air, 391 people on flights 11, 77, 93 and 175 were lost. 3,051 children lost a parent. The toll continues to climb as those, who took part in the rescue efforts. succumb to a number of causes. Never forget. - BOB GRAHAM
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HANFORD FIREFIGHTERS, LOCAL 3898
Hanford celebrates with badge pinning During the first week of January, the Hanford Fire Department held a badge-pinning ceremony for Engineer Isaac Buller, who was promoted to Fire Engineer, and for new Firefighters Andrew Barksdale, Chris Frediani, Chandler Harris, and Jacob Maxson, who were hired to fill empty positions created from people leaving the HFD as well as promotions. Congratulations to Isaac and a big welcome to our fire department family for our new firefighters.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE
Hartwig continues service on California Commission on Emergency Medical Services
CHERYL NAGY
San Bernardino County ShakeOut is a huge success All county departments in addition to numerous cities and towns, residents, businesses and school children throughout the county participated in this year’s Great California ShakeOut drill. This year’s activities also included: County Board of Supervisors proclamation recognizing the Countywide participation, coordination of ShakeOut participation by all county departments, countywide test of the online WebEOC online incident management system by all county departments, and multiple city, towns and partner agencies, satellite phone tests for San Bernardino County Fire, Board of Supervisors and other county
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partners, coordination of countywide HAM radio test with county departments and partner agencies, staffing of Board of Supervisors’ Situation/Policy Room during the ShakeOut drill, use of Emergency Alert System test in conjunction with the ShakeOut efforts countywide are coordinated through the work of the San Bernardino County ShakeOut Committee. The committee is made up of key personnel from various county departments and led by San Bernardino County Fire, Office of Emergency Services.
San Bernardino County is home to the San Andreas Fault, which has the potential to produce a “great earthquake” measuring 8.0 or larger. Such a quake would be devastating to the county and the surrounding region. The drill helps reinforce the need for people to know what to do when the earth begins to move. Experts agree that in California the greatest risk of injury will result from non-structural hazards. San Bernardino County Fire, Office of Emergency Services reminds you that when the earth begins to move drop, cover and hold on! - CHERYL NAGY
On January 12, San Bernardino County Fire Chief Mark Hartwig was reappointed by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. to the California Commission on Emergency Medical Services (EMS), a position he has held since December 2012. The Commission on Emergency Medical Services supports the role of EMS agencies to ensure that patients have adequate access to quality emergency medical services, and to ensure the long term stability of these services. The Commission reviews and approves regulations, standards, and guidelines that are developed by the authority to implement its EMS responsibilities. They make recommendations for further development and future directions of EMS in the State based upon evaluations of the EMS systems. Amongst other things, the Commission also advises the Director with regard to communications, medical equipment, training personnel, facilities and other components of the EMS system. Representing the California Fire Chiefs Association, Chief Hartwig vows to continue efforts to effectively deliver and enhance EMS and move forward into
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Mobile Integrated Healthcare; to include Community Paramedicine. Community Paramedicine is part of the changing evolution of EMS to move into a fully integrated component of the healthcare system. The program targets locally identified health care needs and increases access to care by providing the right level of service based on the individual’s medical need. Mark Hartwig has been fire chief of the San Bernardino County Fire Department since 2011. He served as deputy fire chief at the Rancho Cucamonga Fire District from 2007 to 2011, where he was battalion chief from 2005 to 2007. Hartwig served in several positions at the San Bernardino County Fire Department from 1992 to 2005, including fire captain, apparatus engineer and training and safety officer. Hartwig earned a Master of Science degree in emergency medical services from California State University Long Beach. - TRACEY MARTINEZ
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As I stood in the middle of this burnt out hill satisfied that we all did an outstanding job, I realized how out of breath I was. I felt weak. I held on to the flat that I was given for support and was surprised at how long it was taking me to recover my breath. Then I realized that one possible reason that might be contributing to my not being able to breath was that the air I was breathing was full of smoke. I could feel it irritating my lungs and throat. It also occurred to me that I was the oldest volunteer out there. One was 16, others were in there 20's, 30's and 40's. Oh, and did I mention it was a very steep hill? In the aftermath as we discussed what worked and what we could have done better it was determined that we probably pulled a pre-connected hose off the truck that wasn't long enough to reach all the way up the hill. I was remembering my training about pressure lost in the hose and how you also have to factor in gravity if you are on an elevated surface shooting upwards. I also thought about respirators and the lack there of. We could have been breathing in poison oak or sumac smoke from the hill side and were unprotected. It was also apparent that you need two men on a high pressure hose, especially on a steep hill with poor footing. We discussed who would do what in terms of reporting the fire to the fire marshals office and determined that the cause of the fire originated with the tractor and spread in both directions and up the hill side. We also discussed that there was no property owner there to talk with us to give us his account of what had happened. Just then my cell phone went off, I was surprised that I had service. It was my wife, worried to almost tears because I was now two hours past my arrival time back home. She had been texting and calling and was close to coming out to look for me, fearful that something had happened to me. I reassured her that I was alright. We all finished up at the scene and I carefully turned my truck around so that I could head for the station house. Nameless
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FIREFIGHTER PROFILES
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR -Continued from page 12
Jan/Feb, 2015
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
had responded with a tanker in case we needed more water and he had to move to let me leave. As I headed back for the station it occurred to me that if I didn't write this down and share it with the community that no one but a hand full of volunteers would ever know what had happened. I don't know if we saved any wild live habitats. I don't know if we could have lost any barns or structures if we hadn't showed up. What I do know is that a few men came out based on a phone call for help. I know that they didn't get paid and I know that they are all trained and experienced volunteers. I know that I take great pride and feel privileged to be counted in their ranks. I know that the response was quick, all the vehicles had been well maintained and were in good condition to fight fires. I also know that even seasoned, experienced fighters are always open to learn more and get even better every time they are called out. I only wish more people knew what they did and appreciated them more. It's a dirty, smelly, hard and dangerous job for which there is probably too little thanks. When I finally got home I was tired and hungry. My wife had been to the dentist that afternoon and wasn't up to fixing any dinner. I fixed up some spaghetti and sauce, offered her some and went down into the basement, (my man cave) to eat and unwind. While I was down there I needed to call my daughter. She was very distraught that her middle son had been arrested and she was losing her dream job at the end of this month. She lives five and a half hours from us. All I could do was comfort her, listen to her and tell her how much I cared and that I love her no matter what. I wanted to be able to reach through the phone and just hug her, but I couldn't. I felt powerless. When we hung up I had to go to God in prayer for a divine right outcome for my daughter and my grandson. Peace and healing between my wife and I, and gratitude that I was home safe and sound. What a day!! - DAVID TORRES
In 2007, I began mentoring Fire Explorer Rafael Llamas for a career in the fire service when Rafael was 14 years old. December 31st was his last day in the program due to the age restriction, which is 21 years of age for Explorer Post 101. Rafael spent his last day on a ride out with me at Station 8 (La Sierra). Most 21 year olds wouldn't dream of missing a New Year's Eve party or going out, but Rafael's decision to volunteer his time once again proved his dedication to our profession. During his time as an explorer, he has accomplished so much. I am very proud to have been his mentor. I know he will be such a valuable asset to any organization or department. Good job Rafael and thank you for your service to the City of Riverside Fire Department and Fire Explorer Post 101. - JEFF LEWIS
CITY OF RIVERSIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT
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