1st Responder CA November December Edition

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DECEMBER, 2014 NOV/DEC, 2016

AMMUNITION EXPLODES AS CREWS BATTLE GARAGE FIRE IN ANAHEIM

FERNANDO VILLICANA

Anaheim, CA - On September 28th at approximately 12:17 P.M., Anaheim Fire & Rescue and Garden Grove Fire Department responded to a reported attached garage fire, located under a two-story apartment in the 900 block of Downey Place. Units arrived to find a well involved garage with live rounds of ammunition exploding.

- See full story on page 4

Happy Holidays!

To our advertisers and readers

PAGE 2

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

KAREN COOK

Captain Jim Mitchell, based in Jamul with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, talks with a prospective firefighter at Miramar College’s FCTD Open House.

REDLANDS FD

Redlands FD Rescues Elderly Man from Hillside Redlands, CA - At approximately 1:45 P.M. on October 21st, Redlands FD Battalion-706, Medic Truck 261R, Medic Engine 262R and Medic Engine-264 successfully rescued an elderly male from a hillside in Redlands, near Sunset Drive South.

The gentlemen suffered from possible heat exhaustion and dehydration, but was otherwise uninjured. Crews rapidly deployed a rope rescue system nearly 300-feet down the hillside to safely retrieve him. He received treatment and was stabilized on-scene by Redlands Firefighters/Paramedics.

DID YOU K NOW No one knows who invented the fire hydrant because its patent was actually destroyed in a fire.

Miramar Firefighter Candidate Testing Center Holds Open House San Diego, CA – Miramar College’s Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) held an Open House on Saturday, September 24th, from 10:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. The event was an opportunity for fire departments to recruit firefighters and also for prospective firefighters to get an introduction to the standardized physical fitness test.

Fire departments from northern California joined local departments in setting up tables to hand out job and career information. Candidates were able to talk to recruiters and learn about the departments and the

JUMP TO FILE #100616105 opportunities available.

The physical fitness test course and equipment were available for candidates to try out, starting with the stair climb. They moved on to the hose pull, chainsaw carry, ladder lift, sledge hammer and other specific tasks. The final task was dragging a 175-lb. manikin. The candidates weren’t timed during the practice runs, but will be timed during an actual test. Critical fail errors were explained at each event.

A video produced by the California Joint Apprenticeship Commission, titled “A Day In The Life,” was shown in the classroom adjacent to the testing grounds. The video gives candidates an idea of what the job of a firefighter requires and how to pursue it.

Miramar College’s Firefighter Candidate Testing Center is a valuable tool in achieving the goal of becoming a firefighter. For more information visit their website: http://www.miramarfiretechnology.com/ - KAREN COOK

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KAREN COOK

Chula Vista Fire Explorer Fabian Perez, dragging a 175-pound manikin during the last event of the Candidate Physical Fitness Test (CPAT), while being observed by test proctor Randy James.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

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Nov/Dec, 2016

San Bernardino Residents Catch and Detain Arsonist

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1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

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San Bernardino, CA - On Sunday, September 25th at about 8:15 P.M., firefighters from San Bernardino County Fire and the US Forest Service responded to a reported vegetation fire in lower Waterman Canyon. Upon their arrival, the fire had already been extinguished by a resident. The resident stated that a male subject had started the fire and then gave fire authorities a description. A search of the area turned up negative for the subject described.

Later the next morning just after midnight, another vegetation fire was reported in the same vicinity. At 12:15 A.M., crews from SBCoFD, USFS and CalFire were dispatched to a reported vegetation fire in the area of Lower Waterman Canyon, just in the city limits of San Bernardino. First units arrived onscene and found one-acre of heavy vegetation burning, with a direct threat to the San Bernardino National Forest. Crews engaged in an aggressive attack, knocking the fire down and keeping the fire to two acres. No structures were immediately threatened. Due to the threat to the San Bernardino Forest, SBCoFD entered into unified command.

SBCoFD responded with five Engines, one Batt. Chief, one Fire Investigator, one Dozer, one Hand Crew and two Water Tenders. The United States Forest Service responded with multiple engines,

JUMP TO FILE #092816118 Chief Officers, one Night flying helicopter and air attack overhead. Cal Fire also responded with multiple engines and overhead.

Crews remained on-scene throughout the night and into the morning to fully contain the fire.

Fire Investigators were also onscene to find the cause and origin.

While firefighters fought to contain the fire, investigators were notified that two residents had caught the suspected arsonist and had him detained near the creek. SBCoFire Investigator Brian Headley and US Forest Service Investigator Brandon Smith responded and took custody of the subject.

Investigators determined the subject, later identified as Edwin Lizano, is suspected of deliberately setting both fires. Lizano was charged with two counts of arson and booked at the West Valley Detention Center by San Bernardino Police Officers in lieu of $250,000 bail.

The residents' quick actions may have saved their neighborhood from going up in flames and also helped put an arsonist behind bars.

SBCoFire thanked those residents for being vigilant, “seeing something, saying something."

FERNANDO VILLICANA

- SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

FUTURE 1st RESPONDERS

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 2 No. 4 - 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 error. Omissions or erA division of: rors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

FERNANDO VILLICANA

Ammunition Explodes as Crews Battle Garage Fire in Anaheim

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PUBLICATION CONTENT

Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the "space available" and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.

KAREN COOK

Chula Vista, CA – Southwestern College students provided a kid’s hose pull at the Chula Vista Open House, held on October 1st.

Anaheim, CA - On September 28th at approximately 12:17 P.M., Anaheim Fire & Rescue and Garden Grove Fire Department responded to a reported attached garage fire, located under a two-story apartment in the 900 block of Downey Place. Units arrived to find a well involved garage with live rounds of ammunition exploding. Hazmat was called in as well due to chemicals leaking from the garage. It took approximately 25 minutes to obtain a knock down of the fire.

No injuries were reported and the fire is under investigation.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

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Nov/Dec, 2016

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1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty

Nevada: Yaphet Miller, 43 Rank: Captain Incident Date: September 23, 2016 Death Date: October 5, 2016 Fire Department: North Las Vegas Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Captain Yaphet Miller succumbed to a medical injury suffered after working a multi-alarm fire in a shopping plaza that damaged six businesses on September, 23rd. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported.

Colorado: Jermaine Frye, 31 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: October 25, 2016 Death Date: October 29, 2016 Fire Department: Cimarron Hills Fire Department Initial Summary: The day after being released from the hospital for treatment of a work-related injury he sustained during training, Firefighter/Paramedic Frye was found at his home in cardiac arrest.

According to the fire department, Wescott Fire Protection District responders tried unsuccessfully to revive Frye, but he succumbed to a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined.

New Jersey: Joseph Bichler, 66 Rank: Senior Firefighter Incident Date: October 30, 2016 Death Date: October 31, 2016 Fire Department: Evesham Fire-Rescue (Evesham Fire District #1) Initial Summary: Firefighter Bichler responded to two fire calls on October 30, 2016. These calls were at 1302hrs and 2340hrs, respectively. For both calls, he responded to the station and stood-by until fire apparatus returned and then assisted the apparatus with getting back into service. While at home the following morning, Bichler collapsed in the driveway of his residence. Emergency 911 was called and his home department, Evesham Fire Department, responded along with paramedics for the medical call. Firefighter Bichler was found to be in cardiac arrest. His fellow fire department members performed CPR and transported him to a local hospital where he succumbed.

Wisconsini: John C. Brocker, 65 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 31, 2016 Death Date:October 31, 2016 Fire Department: Town of Oneida Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Brocker responded on a fire unit to a single vehicle vs. utility pole crash. The vehicle was occupied by five teenagers, one of whom died from injuries sustained. Upon arrival, Brocker advised the department chief he was having chest pain. After sitting down, he was given oxygen and began to feel better. A short time later, Firefighter Brocker collapsed in full arrest at the scene. He was transported to St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, WI, where he passed away.

Ohio: Adam Long, 44 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 31, 2016 Death Date: October 31, 2016 Fire Department: Defense Supply Center Columbus Fire and Emergency Services Initial Summary: Firefighter Adam Long suffered a massive cardiac arrest while on-duty. Fellow responders treated Long and transported him to the hospital, but despite all efforts, Firefighter Long passed away.

New Jersey: Alfred A. Stewart, 79 Rank: Firefighter (Former Fire Chief) Incident Date: November 6, 2016 Death Date: November 6, 2016 Fire Department: West Milford Volunteer Fire Company #6 Initial Summary: Firefighter Stewart reported to the fire station for a company drill. He remained alone at the station to perform maintenance duties while other company members attended the drill.

At some point, Stewart ascended a ladder inside the station for these maintenance duties. When fire department personnel returned from the drill, they found Stewart entangled in the fallen ladder. Despite lifesaving efforts, Steward was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. It is unknown whether Stewart suffered a medical emergency while atop the ladder and then fell, or if the ladder had fallen while he was on it, causing his trauma. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of Firefighter Stewart's death.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

REDLANDS FD

Redlands Uses OES Truck to Rescue Injured Motorcycle Rider

Mentone, CA - On November 12th, Redlands Fire Department OES 8638 utilized its 4X4 capabilities to help locate and rescue an injured motorcycle rider in the hills of Mentone. They provided mutual aid to SBCoFd Medic Engine-9 so that crews could more quickly reach and treat the rider, who was in a precarious remote location. The firefighters/paramedics onscene evaluated, stabilized and treated the patient for a possible fractured femur prior to safely extricating him from the hillside. The patient was transported to Kaiser Hospital Fontana in stable condition.

NEWPORT BEACH FD

Newport Beach FD Rescues Dog from House Fire

Newport Beach, CA - Newport Beach Fire crews responded to a structure fire up in Newport Coast at approximately 6:00 P.M. on November 5th. Crews acted quickly and were able to hold and extinguish the fire to the garage area only. While searching for occupants in the smoke filled residence, interior crews rescued a 10-year-old dog that was found hiding in a closet. The dog was examined at the scene by Newport Beach Fire Paramedics and released to his owner. He appeared to be uninjured.

Nov/Dec, 2016

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Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Ventura County Fallen Firefighters Honored at Annual Memorial Service Camarillo, CA – The names of Oxnard Fire Captain Scott Carroll and Ventura County Fire Engineer Ryan S. Osler have been etched into the granite and added to the other 42 names listed on the JUMP TO FILE# Ventura County 103116112 Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

On Saturday, November 5th, the 12th annual memorial ceremony began at 10:00 A.M. on the lawn surrounding the memorial at the Ventura County Government Center. The service was open to the public.

During the service, surviving family members were given a folded flag to honor the fallen firefighters, and a bell rang out as a symbol of the firefighter's last call.

Carroll, 48, was a secondgeneration firefighter with more than 25-years of service. He started as a Federal Firefighter in Ventura and a seasonal firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service before settling in Oxnard. He died on November 30, 2015, of a brain aneurysm.

Osler, 38, died in a line-of-

VENTURA COUNTY FD

Scott Carroll, 48, was a second-generation firefighter with more than 25-years of service.

duty vehicle accident on the Canyon Fire in Santa Barbara County on Wednesday, September 21, 2016. He was a second-generation, 18-year firefighter veteran with the Ventura County Fire Department.

“Both Scott and Ryan demonstrated an extraordinary blend of courage and compassion to face tremendous risks to help others,” said Chief Dustin Gardner. “We gather in memory of them and to honor all the sacrifices of all those who died in the line-of-duty.”

The Ventura County Fallen Firefighters Memorial honors those who died in the line-of-duty from traumatic injury or job-related illness. Since 2004, the annual ceremony represents each of the eight fire agencies serving the county, including Ventura County, Oxnard, Ventura City, Federal Fire, Santa Paula, Fillmore, CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service.

VENTURA COUNTY FD

- VENTURA COUNTY FD

Visit us online for more news around the states.

VENTURA COUNTY FD

www.1rbn.com

Ryan Osler, 38, was a second-generation, 18-year firefighter veteran with the Ventura County Fire Department.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

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Nov/Dec, 2016

Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

Stigma

There is a movement currently going on about stigma and mental illness. In emergency services, if we admit to having a challenge, we do not want our brothers and sisters looking at us in a different light. Why? Are we not human?

Who among us are perfect?

Part of the Stigma Free movement should be understanding your challenges, as well as other people's challenges. Sources indicate that "one-in-five Americans live with a mental health condition." Think about that for a minute; one-in-five. If you have five responders on a truck, one of them may have a mental health issue. Twenty percent of your department may have an issue. Are you or a member of your family or department one that is living with it, but did not seek any help? Are we judging others that have the courage to admit that they need some help?

Let's look at some things that might be in our stations. There may be a member who has lost someone so close to them that they will have a difficult time making it through the upcoming holidays because they are battling with depression as they grieve.

There may be someone who is still having challenges because of a really bad call and they may have PTSD. I know people who are bipolar, have addictions, in major depression, had a stroke, etc.

Should we just tell them to "suck it up, buttercup"? NO! How would

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

you want to be treated? What if it was your child or family member?

Compassion goes a long way.

Whatever mental issues they have does not identify them.

One of my best friends is blind. I do not think of him as "Blind Steve". He is just Steve and life goes on. He will tell me if he needs my assistance. Other times I let him know about a situation coming up that he may need to know about.

If a person in your department has a substance abuse challenge, are you going to just get rid of him from your department, or are you going to be a brother and come along side of them and help to lead them to a program that can assist them. The person may be a great responder BUT they have a challenge and need help.

It is perfectly alright to see a psychologist, psychiatrist, or doctor and get the help that is needed.

If you have physical challenges, hopefully you go to the doctor and get help, so why not mental health? Why not take the course Mental Health First Aid? 'Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.' - Isaiah 41:10 Do not keep trying to make it on your own. God is with you during your struggles. Seek out the help that you, a family member, or member of service may need. Understand those who have the challenges. Let us remove the stigma in emergency services. Let us first get the help that we need and understand those who have mental health issues.

Let emergency services be Stigma Free. Let us get to the point where the stations are safe for all. Let us try to help those with mental health issues.

Happy Holidays and stay safe, Didymus McHugh

D ID YOU K NOW

NEWPORT BEACH FD

NEWPORT BEACH FD

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NEWPORT BEACH FD

After 9/11, famed actor Steve Buscemi rejoined the New York Fire Department to help firefighters sift through the rubble of the World Trade Center.

Four Alarm Commercial Building Fire in Newport Beach Newport Beach, CA - The Newport Beach Fire Department was dispatched on the morning of November 11th for reports of a commercial structure fire located on the west side of town.

Upon arrival, crews found the commercial building fully engulfed in flames. Four-alarms were requested for additional manpower to help battle the blaze. The initial cause of the fire is unknown and still under investigation.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Fire Damages Vacant San Bernardino Home San Bernardino, CA - On Sunday, November 27th at 10:00 A.M., the San Bernardino County FD crews were dispatched to a JUMP TO FILE# reported structure 120116102 fire in the 200 block of East Dumas in the City of San Bernardino. ME231 arrived on-scene in four minutes to find a boarded up, single-story home, with smoke

showing from all sides. Crews went in attack mode and reported heavy smoke throughout the structure. Interior crews coordinated with crews performing vertical ventilation on the roof to clear the smoke, which helped to increase visibility and survivability throughout the structure.

The fire was knocked down after approximately 10 minutes.

Crews completed a search throughout the home to confirm that no one was inside at the time of the fire.

The fire is under investigation; how-

ever, evidence in the home showed that squatters had been living in the home. A board-up company was called to secure the building.

Four Medic Engines, one Medic Truck and one Battalion Chief responded to the fire. Loma Linda and Colton Fire Department also assisted, with one Engine each.

PAGE 11

Nov/Dec, 2016

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

- SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

BRANDON BARSUGLI

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

San Bernardino County Fire Captain Greg Soria explains "Stop, Drop, and Roll" at a recent school program in the City of Victorville.

PAGE 12

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK

1st Responder Newspaper er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

MODESTO FD

Modesto Firefighters Battle Two Fires Overnight Modesto, CA - Modesto area fire crews were busy overnight on November 2nd, fighting two structure fires. Crews were dispatched to the 400 block of Morris Avenue at 11:48 P.M. First arriving crews found a single-story home with heavy fire that was threatening a home to the west. An offensive fire attack was initiated. The lath and plaster construction proved difficult in being able to open the ceilings. Crews searched the house and it was clear of occupants. With the fire growing and

JUMP TO FILE #112316123 the house vacated, crews moved into a defensive fire attack until conditions inside of the home were safe for re-entry. The fire was completely controlled after approximately 35 minutes. The Red Cross was called to assist three displaced adults. The cause is under investigation and damage was estimated at $60,000.

Then, at 4:29 A.M., crews

were dispatched to the 1400 block of Lassen for a vacant home on fire. Crews arrived to find a home, which had burned previously, fully involved with fire. The fire was controlled with a defensive fire attack.

Both fires utilized the resource sharing partnership Modesto FD has in place with Stanislaus Consolidated Fire District and Ceres Fire Department.

- MODESTO FD

Eric Moore has been a firefighter for almost 30 years, first joining the department in November of 1988. The tattoo he chose to get covers his entire back and took almost three months to complete, from September until November of 2014. When asked what inspired him to get this specific tattoo, Eric responded "my inspiration came from the love for my brothers lost on that fateful day and the need for a tribute, as well as my love for what we do and my love of ink." Eric currently works for Daly City Fire Department, located in Daly City, CA.

Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

Fire Call

Sounding the alarm to save our vanishing volunteers

By George Devault Available from: Amazon, Barnes & Noble and also in most book stores Price: $17.95 This book is soft cover measuring six by nine inches And has 297 pages of 36 chapters within seven parts plus an introduction and epilogue. The author was a volunteer firefighter for 30 years in Pennsylvania. Part of that time he was a part paid firefighter in the general vicinity. His plea is a valid one attested to in the seven page introduction. It is an eye opener to the critical shortage of volunteer firefighters there are not only in Pennsylvania but throughout the country. The amount of information and statistics is overwhelming and sounds a signal that many if not most volunteer fire departments are hurting for

members. That said it also gives the average age of today’s volunteer. Let’s just say that if they were professional athletes, they would be well retired! He gives many reasons for the shortage, most of which are legitimate especially when it comes to the economy dictating the need for two or more needs of income within families compounded by the level of stress placed up men and women today. Contributing to that are the multiple ways that people today can be contacted including many kinds of phones, answering machines, e-mail and pagers to name a few. He makes his living at a reputable publisher in which he has progressed to a management position. He is also an organic farmer. His office is across the street from the fire station so when at work it was easy access to respond to a call. He uses part of the book to explain how his journalism job sparked an interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter particularly when he worked the police desk so to speak at a newspaper in large Ohio city. It was after he took a job at the publishing company that he relocated and became a firefighter. He takes the reader through the many variables of being a volunteer. Not taking anything away from the career firefighter (I was one), the volu8nteer is subject to be called to duty at any time. Whereas ca-

reer firefighters work in teams and advance in skills together, the volunteer almost never knows who will show up to answer a call thus it is a guess who will make up this team. The number of personnel showing up is also questionable at a call. I can say that most career FD’s don’t do much better with the numbers game as firefighters are expensive today but even years ago when they weren’t, few departments had adequate manning.

He goes through all aspects of training for volunteers which included inside firefighting. Other parts of the book group all kinds of fires and emergencies fought and handled in a non-perfect world. When reading some of these you may forget that these are volunteers as many of the details resemble those you may have read from other authors in career fire departments. It is a book you will not want to put down unless something real urgent commands your attention! Also, a quick note that on the last page are ways that a person can ease the burden of a volunteer fire department without necessarily joining the ranks.

There are many supportive functions needed such as grant writers, fundraisers, office workers, cooks (for fundraising), attorney for legal matters, tradesmen such as mechanics, electricians, etc., grounds keeping, chaplain, nurse and others.

Nov/Dec, 2016

PAGE 13

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

TODD BENDER

Highland, NY - Tiffany Weaver is 27-years-old, a mother of two, and a member of Highland Hose Company No. 1. She was inspired to join the fire department because of her desire to save lives and assist her community in times of need. Weaver, employed as a phlebotomist at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, NY was previously a member of the Roosevelt Fire Department Rescue Squad in Hyde Park, NY. Highland Hose Lt. Joe DeFellipo is proud to have Tiffany in the department and looks forward to having her complete driver training in the near future. Under the guidance of her fellow firefighters, Tiffany has been honing her driving skills on Highland's 1994 E-One Hurricane.

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Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

County Fire Opens New Fire Station in Needles Needles, CA - Community members and dignitaries attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on October 31st in Needles for the new San Bernardino County Fire Station 32. The ceremony kicked off with a welcome from Assistant Chief Tom Mar- JUMP TO FILE# shall and an 110116100 invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Rev. Canon Janet Hurley, Vicar of St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church. First District Supervisor Robert A. Lovingood was in attendance as the guest speaker, followed by remarks and the unveiling of a dedication plaque from Fire Chief Mark Hartwig. The ribbon cutting ceremony officially welcomed San Bernardino County’s newest fire station to the City of Needles.

San Bernardino County Fire has administered fire protection

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services for the City of Needles since 1977. The new 6,300-square-foot station will help San Bernardino County firefighters continue to proudly serve the City of Needles, the unincorporated region of the county, including Park Moabi, the Colorado River recreation area and the Interstate 40 and Highway 95 corridors. The current Fire Station 31, built in 1953 at 633 Front Street in Needles, is no longer adequate or large enough to support the needs of County Fire.

“The opening of this state-ofthe-art fire station is part of my commitment to enhancing public safety throughout San Bernardino County,” Supervisor Robert Lovingood said.

“The men and women of the San Bernardino County Fire Department do an outstanding job, and this new station will be an important part of their mission to serve residents.”

The new fire station includes an apparatus bay for housing two engines, sleep rooms, restrooms, an exercise room, lobby, kitchen and dining areas. There is also a 600square-foot equipment storage building, constructed adjacent to the main station. The construction meets the current state title 24 energy standards, and the rock scape provides for California’s drought concerns with no need for irrigation.

“The City of Needles and San Bernardino County Fire remain committed to providing sustainable fire, rescue and emergency medical services to its citizens and visitors,” stated Fire Chief Mark Hartwig. “We

look forward to serving the area from Fire Station 32, which now allows room for future growth of fire protection services to the City and surrounding communities. We are honored and proud to serve you.”

The $3.6 million construction project was funded from a Community Development Block Grant and the County’s discretionary general fund. Construction began November

12, 2015 and is scheduled to open right on time and is also on track with the project budget.

In 2012, the Board of Supervisors approved STK Architecture Inc. to design a fire station in Spring Valley Lake and use the design template for future fire stations at a cost savings to taxpayers. The contractor on the Needles project is D. Webb Incorporated of Yucca Valley.

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

The Needles Fire Station mans a fire engine, a brush patrol and a water tender and is staffed 24 hours a day with a professional Fire Captain, Engineer and Firefighter Paramedic, responding to over 1,100 calls for service annually.

- SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

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Nov/Dec, 2016

PAGE 15

Imperial Beach FD Celebrates 70th Anniversary with Open House Imperial Beach, CA – The Imperial Beach Fire Department, established in 1946, celebrated its 70th Anniversary with an Open House on Saturday, October 15th, from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. The fire station, located at 865 Imperial Beach Boulevard, is adjacent to City Hall JUMP TO FILE# and the entire back 101916112 parking lot was used for apparatus on display, information booths and various activities for kids.

Fire apparatus from Cal-Fire, Federal Fire and Coronado also participated in the open house.

National City FD loaned their fire safety trailer for kids to learn what to do in case of a fire. The U.S. Border Patrol and Imperial Beach Lifeguards also had information booths and vehicles on display.

Inside the apparatus bay were quite a few community organizations with information tables.

There were refreshments, health and safety demonstrations and “sidewalk CPR” training, provided by American Medical Response. The San Diego County Sheriff’s department captivated the crowd with a K-9 demonstration, using Fire Captain Jason Bell as the “bad guy.” He attested to the strength of the dog’s jaws clamping down on his arm even through the protective training sleeve.

Around 12:15 P.M., Firefighters John Olsen and William Buchanan demonstrated auto extrication on a car the department had entered into the Burn Institute’s Demolition Derby earlier in the year. The driver’s door was still intact, so they cut it off, cut the posts holding the roof, and then removed it to provide easy access to the manikin “patient” in the seat. About one hour later, a Mercy Air helicopter landed on Imperial Beach Blvd., in front of the fire station, where the public could see it up close.

FF/PM John Olsen cutting the door off the department’s demolition derby car to demonstrate vehicle extrication.

KAREN COOK

- KAREN COOK

IBFD Fire Captain Jason Bell volunteered to be the “bad guy” for the Sheriff’s Dept. K-9 demonstration.

KAREN COOK

PAGE 16

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Structure Fire in Coronado Displaces Residents Coronado, CA - On October 30th, the Newport Beach Fire Department was dispatched to investigate an audible alarm at the Coronado apartments at 8:34 P.M. One fire engine was initially called to investigate the alarm.

During their investigation, crews could smell smoke coming from an unoccupied apartment. A full structure fire response consisting of three fire engines, one ladder truck, a paramedic ambulance and a battalion chief was requested to assist with the fire attack.

After gaining entrance into the apartment, firefighters discovered a fire in the walls of both the second and third floors. The fire originated in the walls directly behind the gas fire place on the secondfloor. The fire then traveled upward to the third-floor.

Firefighters had to open the walls behind the fireplaces on both the second and third floors to gain access and completely extinguish the fire. No occupants were injured during the incident. Firefighters located and extinguished the concealed fire within 15 minutes. The damage to apartments on both floors was estimated to be

DRILLS/TRAINING

To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

JUMP TO FILE #110116103 approximately $30,000, but the building itself was completely saved and did not sustain any structural damage. The residents in one apartment on the third-floor were displaced from their home as a result of the smoke and wall damage, while the residents in neighboring apartments were able to safely re-occupy their homes.

Newport Beach FD facilitated the response of the Red Cross to assist with the resident’s displacement, as well as a new program to Newport Beach called TIP. TIP is an acronym for Trauma Intervention Program and utilizes trained volunteers in the community to assist those in need.

A functioning smoke detector alerted neighboring residents to the fire within the unoccupied structure. Had the smoke detector not sounded and the residents not called when they did, major damage would have resulted to the apartment complex.

- NEWPORT BEACH FD

NEWPORT BEACH FD

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PAGE 17

Coronado FD Hosts Public Safety Open House Coronado, CA - City Fire, Police, Lifeguards, the San Diego Harbor Police and more, participated in Coronado's 24th Annual Public Safety Open House, held on Sunday, October 9th. As part of Fire Prevention Month, streets were closed off Orange Avenue and Sixth Street for apparatus JUMP TO FILE# displays, activities 101416115 for the kids, vehicle extrication demonstration and the landing of two helicopters.

Thousands of citizens and children attend this event, held between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. every year, to meet the firefighters, police officers and rescue personnel that serve the community and to also learn more about the people and organizations in the city and the county.

Live music and entertainment for kids is always a part of the event.

Kids can have their face painted, climb a rock wall, enter a coloring contest and play in a jumpy house.

Apparatus from the Coronado Fire Department, Coronado Police Department, Federal Fire Department, the Navy, San Diego County Hazmat and other San Diego County fire departments and law enforcement agencies, were on display. “Remembrance Rescue Project” Rescue 5, a restored truck from Ground Zero in New York City, was in San Diego County for a few months and on display near Fire Station-36. Fire Prevention classes, including "Stop, Drop, and Roll" and "Learn Not to Burn" were also offered at the Fire Safety House trailer.

The two helicopters that landed were from Mercy Air and the Sheriff’s Department. They landed within 10 minutes of each other on the street next to Fire Station-36 and were open for the public to look at up close.

Coronado’s Truck-37 crew did the vehicle extrication demonstration on an older Ford Explorer. They used cutting tools to take off the front doors of the SUV and then remove the roof. A manikin inside of the car was then carefully taken out of the driver’s seat and placed on a gurney, as if going to a hospital for medical care.

Coronado firefighters demonstrate a vehicle extrication.

KAREN COOK

A San Diego County Sheriff’s Department helicopter landing next to Fire Station-36.

KAREN COOK

- KAREN COOK

PAGE 18

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

International Firefighter Safety Chief Talks to Commissioners At the Association of Fire Districts of NY annual Fall Conference in Saratoga Springs, NY, internationally acclaimed Fire Chief Billy Goldfeder gave the keynote address to approximately 370 JUMP TO FILE# Fire District Com- 101416107 missioners from all over New York state.

Chief Goldfeder brings decades of firefighting experience to his presentations and the address on October 14th was no different. Goldfeder has been in the fire service since 1973 and his career continues today. In addition to currently serving as Deputy Fire Chief for the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department in Loveland, Ohio, he serves as the International Director for the Safety, Health and Survival section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. The 1993 graduate of of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer program serves as an Associate/Contributing Editor for many fire service publications, cohosts a website solely dedicated to the safety and survival of firefighters and in 2001, was appointed Honorary Battalion Chief of the FDNY. Chief Goldfeder came to the conference to stress the need for communication between commissioners and their chiefs. He stressed the need for people who put the fires out to understand the role of the commissioner and the need for commissioners to be involved in the dayto-day operations of the department, without becoming a micro-manager.

The speaker continued by telling everyone in attendance that the commissioners and every person involved in the fire department needs to protect three separate, but equally important customer bases; the district taxpayers, the district's firefighters, and the families of the firefighters. By keeping those three groups in mind at every decision, the district will be better served.

With regard to safety, the chief called on his own experience and expertise to state that most line-ofduty deaths are preventable. He went further by saying that the departments with the most stringent rules and drills have higher call turnout and better safety records. He

BUDDY SHOT

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

KAREN COOK

San Diego, CA – Retired National City Battalion Chief Don Miner with Coronado Fire Captain and director of Miramar’s Fire Technology program, Darren Hall, and San Diego Fire Rescue Capt. J. Harris at the Miramar College Firefighter Candidate Testing Center Open House, held on September 24th.

TODD BENDER

Staatsburg Fire District Commissioner/1st Responder News Correspondent Todd Bender and Chief Goldfeder.

advanced the idea that departments hold frequent drills and firefighters that miss them are not permitted to respond to calls until the drill requirement is met.

Equipment purchasing was also mentioned during the three hour event. Chief Goldfeder stressed the importance of buying equipment such as thermal imaging devices, that will benefit the three customer bases previously mentioned. He argued that equipment that can save lives and property would not be objectionable to the taxpayer, would give the firefighters one more tool to aid in safety, and the families of the firefighters would have some peace of mind.

Chief did say that when equipment is asked for and subsequently purchased, that the commissioners demand that the chief draw up a policy for utilizing the equipment. The theory is that the best tools on the market only work when you take them off of the apparatus and actually use them. He also said that department officers should be

responsible for making sure the policies are observed by the members of the department. On policies themselves, Goldfeder said that three things need to happen before a policy is enforceable; classroom session on the policy, hands on training, and testing on the material covered in the classroom and hands on exercise.

Cancer, the ever-growing problem in the fire industry, was also mentioned. Chief Goldfeder stressed the need for policies that keep firefighters away from fires unless they are wearing their SCBA equipment.

There is enough validated research that shows the correlation between toxic fumes at fires to the diagnosis of cancer among firefighters and commissioners should demand that the appropriate breathing equipment be used at all times. Goldfeder also encouraged the older members in attendance to get periodic cancer screenings due to previous exposure and the benefit of early diagnosis.

- TODD BENDER

NEWPORT BEACH FD

Newport Beach, CA - Newport Beach Firefighters fed approximately 500 people that attended the annual Hearts and Hands event, held recently at the LDS church. Volunteers also prepared care packages for service members who are deployed overseas.

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PAGE 19

FACES OF CALIFORNIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES

To see your “Faces” shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,

Coronado, CA - Southwestern Fire Technology student and Fire Explorer Ken Glimme volunteered at the Coronado Public Safety Open House in October, grilling hotdogs for the public to enjoy.

KAREN COOK

KAREN COOK

Chula Vista, CA – Southwestern College Fire Science students with instructor Steve Bowlin (retired San Diego BC), after setting up the kid’s hose pull and rescue tunnel at Chula Vista’s Open House in October.

KAREN COOK

Chula Vista, CA – Chula Vista Fire Explorers E. Sanchez, K. Glimme and E. Herrera at the Chula Vista Fire Department's annual Fire Prevention Open House, held on October 1st.

Chula Vista, CA – Chula Vista Fire Explorers pose next to Engine-54 at the annual fire Prevention Open House, held on October 1st.

On November 10th, CAL FIRE Director Ken Pimlott and Asst. Deputy Director Daniel Berlant joined Chilean fire officials from CONAF (the CAL FIRE of Chile), to sign an agreement to work together and share information on preventing and responding to wildfires. California's climate and wildfire risk are very similar. The trip was sponsored by the Chile California Council.

San Diego, CA – Chula Vista Fire Explorers attended the Miramar College Firefighter Candidate Testing Center Open House on Saturday, September 24th.

CAL FIRE

KAREN COOK

KAREN COOK

PAGE 20

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Responding to Gas Emergencies STAYING SAFE

Chief Henry Campbell

The following article appeared in this column a few years back, in reference to responding to gas leaks, and will serve as a refresher.

Responding to a reported odor of gas or a possible gas leak can result in either a minor problem, or a much more hazardous condition, depending on the situation.

It may be a pilot light that has gone out on a gas appliance, or a major catastrophic leak resulted in an explosion, causing a fire as witnessed recently in news articles. Having an SOG covering response to gas emergencies will provide you with initial operating procedures that can be modified as the situation warrants.

As always, the first priority is the safety of responders and the public when responding to a gas emergency.

1. Personnel responding to a natural gas emergency should be dressed in full protective clothing and SCBA at all times.

2. If a gas leak is detected, request the local gas company to respond.

3. Evacuate the affected area by at least 150-feet, increase area as may be deemed necessary.

4. Deny access to the area.

5. Operate upwind whenever possible.

6. Locate a water supply in the event of fire or explosion.

7. Remove any possible sources of ignition.

8. Whenever a gas meter is shut off, it should never be turned back on by anyone other than the gas company. Restoration of gas service should be done by gas company personnel only.

In addition, the following may also be included in your SOG: 1. Spot the apparatus a safe distance from the address of the leak. The first arriving company may enter the block area of the leak and other responding apparatus shall stage one block or a safe distance and preferably upwind of the leak and keep vehicles, spectators and/or occupants away.

2. Request traffic control by a police agency or fire police, if needed.

3. Consider evacuation of the structure and other exposures.

4. Try to determine if there is a gas leak and the area of involvement with Combustible Gas Meters.

5. If I gas leak is detected, notify the Gas Company and standby until arrival.

6. Evacuate any endangered occupants in the building, as well as the immediate area.

7. Ventilate structure by opening doors and windows from outside.

8. If using electric or gasoline fans, make sure that they are ex-

plosion-proof type and keep generators clear of the area.

9. Do not ring doorbells and do not operate electric switches inside the building.

9. Natural gas is lighter than air, so always check upper levels above the leak site and place apparatus accordingly.

11. Propane is heavier than air and will gravitate to lower levels and should be checked.

12. Shut off gas supply at the meter or propane tank when possible.

13. Shut off electric power to the building to prevent appliances (refrigerator, oil burner, etc.) from coming on.

14. Suppress or remove all sources of ignition in the immediate area whenever possible.

15. Do not attempt to shut down main line gas valves; this should be done by trained gas company personnel.

16. Allow occupants back into the structure only after levels have been reduced to 0% and the gas company concurs.

The above provides some initial suggestions as to what should be done upon response and what additional actions may also be taken into consideration.

As mentioned previously, gas leaks can be very minor, or they can turn into a disaster in a matter of seconds. There are many variables that contribute to the emergency, such as the source of the leak, what is the location of the leak a building or in the street, how long has the gas been leaking prior to notification, and the potential ignition sources in the immediate area.

Gas emergencies pose many dangers to responding personnel and members should be constantly aware of those hazards and maintain necessary precautions to protect themselves from possible injury and death, should a fire or explosion occur.

Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!

IN SERVICE

To see your In Service shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

KEN SNYDER

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MEET OUR CORRESPONDENTS

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Meet Our Correspondents” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Nov/Dec, 2016

PAGE 21

Chula Vista FD Holds Open House Chula Vista, CA – Chula Vista Fire Department held its annual Fire Prevention Open House at Fire Station-4 and the adjacent training grounds on Saturday, October 1st, from 10:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. Organizations and city departments started setting up early in the morning with the help of Chula Vista’s Fire Explorers, Southwestern College Fire Science students and department employees. American Medical Response had an ambulance on display next to the County Hazmat response van. The Chula Vista Citizen’s Assistance Support Team (CAST), Chula Vista Fire Explorers and a few other organizations had display tables in the apparatus bay.

Chula Vista’s CERT organization had a table in the apparatus bay and also demonstrated how to use a fire extinguisher out near the tower.

Citizens had the opportunity to try using a fire extinguisher to put out a small fire.

JUMP TO FILE #100616108 Chula Vista’s Fire Prevention trailer was open for children to visit and learn about fire safety. Other activities for the children included a puppet show and rides around the training grounds and through the apparatus bay, for adults and children alike, by the Little Fire Truck Company. The popular ride had a long line all the way until the end of the day. Children also lined up for delicious snow cones.

Southwestern College Fire Science students set up an area in the front of the fire station for children to try on kid-size firefighter gear and then run while pulling a 50’ length of hose. They could also crawl through a U-shaped tunnel to rescue a doll or child size manikin.

There were many great video and photo opportunities for adoring parents of kids with giant smiles.

Battalion Chief Chris Manroe staged a two car accident in the training area, with one car on its side and resting on the other car, which had a manikin inside. Firefighters demonstrated vehicle stabilization on the car that was on its side, and extrication on the other car by cutting the roof off to rescue the manikin victim, as BC Manroe narrated. Next, Firefighter Andrew Mathews of USAR-53 rappelled from the third-floor of the training tower to pick up Fire Explorer Eddie Lopez from the second-floor in a rescue demonstration. Both made it safely to the ground.

A Mercy Air helicopter arrived at the Open House just past noon, landing on the cement training ground. Visitors were allowed to look inside for about 90 minutes before the helicopter departed. The Open House ended at 2:00 P.M., just after the helicopter took off.

- KAREN COOK

PROVIDED

"Todd Bender is a Staatsburg Fire District Commissioner in Hyde Park, NY. When not playing with his five-year-old son Logan, or eating pizza with his 21-year-old daughter Megan, or chatting online with his 22-year-old US Army Combat Medic son Ryan, he can be found wandering throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond, looking for stories and pictures to contribute to 1st Responder News.

Todd is a former Dutchess County Legislator who got tired of politics, until he became a fire commissioner, and now he's just exhausted! Todd is always looking for new story ideas and routinely asks for emergency responders to email him at sfdbender64@Gmail.com with their ideas and events."

DID YOU K NOW

?

The Little Fire Truck Co. was a very popular attraction at the Open House.

KAREN COOK

In 1981, a pediatrician saved the life of a 3.2 pound premature baby boy by working around the clock to beat the odds and stabilize him.

In 2011, the pediatrician was pinned inside a burning vehicle after a car collision, but was saved by the premature baby, who had grown up to become a paramedic.

Firefighters remove the roof from this car to demonstrate extrication skills.

KAREN COOK

PAGE 22

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

PAGE 23

California

Fire-Dex Recognizes Hometown Hero, Jamie Brock

CAL FIRE

Firefighters from the Amador-El Dorado Unit show off their Cares T-shirts and the unique design of strength and courage.

Medina, Ohio - November, 2016 Fire-Dex representatives, Todd Herring and Jessica Meade, presented the first Fire-Dex Hometown Hero award to Volunteer Firefighter, Jamie Brock, on November 8, 2016.

Jamie received a beautiful award, a new Fire-Dex helmet and a pair of FDXL-100 Red Leather Fire Boots.

Additionally, Fire-Dex will make a $500 donation to the charity of Jamie's choice.

Jamie has served his community in his volunteer firefighter role for more than 30 years. On September 28, 2016, he went above and beyond the call of duty. He heard on his pager of an active shooter at a local school, Townville Elementary School. He immediately rushed to the scene and without hesitation tackled the shooter. He detained the shooter until authorities arrived. His efforts were applauded as likely preventing others from being hurt.

Townville Fire Chief Billy McAdams spoke about how the community is doing after the terrible shooting incident. "We come together as a community as well as a county, state," Chief Billy McAdams said. "We've had a lot of support, a lot of good people helped us. So,

tonight is basically the people that responded that day. It's our time to be together."

Join Fire-Dex in congratulating Townville Volunteer Firefighter, Jamie Brock, our first recipient of a Fire-Dex Hometown Hero award, for his heroic efforts on that fateful day.

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BUDDY SHOT If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

CAL FIRE

Even their littlest supporters look great in the CAL FIRE Cares T-shirts!

CAL FIRE Cares to Wear Pink There is a proven correlation between cancer and firefighters, but cancer, in its many forms, also affects millions of people worldwide. In October, CAL FIRE once again joined forces with police and fire departments, as well as other organizations across the nation, to raise awareness about this terrible disease, with 100% of the proceeds from T-shirt purchases donated to a cancer non-profit.

KAREN COOK

Chula Vista, CA – Chula Vista Firefighter Andrew Mathews, Captain Jeff Ewert and Fire Explorer Eddie Lopez at the Chula Vista FD's annual Fire Prevention Open House, held on October 1st.

PAGE 24

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

EUGENE WEBER JR.

Albion Little River Fire Department is located in Albion, CA (Mendocino County).

BOB LONG

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

PAGE 25

NBA Game Supports Fire Family Foundation

Sacramento, CA - Sacramento basketball fans can cheer on the Kings and support firefighters at an upcoming home game on January 15, 2017.

Purchase tickets for the Sacramento Kings versus the Oklahoma City Thunder in the King’s new Golden 1 Credit Union Center and part of your purchase will be donated to Fire Family Foundation, the charitable hand of Firefighters First Credit Union.

There is a special group pricing of $50-$124 per ticket, and a bonus for those who buy their tickets via the group site: you’ll get to shoot a free throw after the game on the court.

Fans can also stop by the Fire Family Foundation table on the concourse and learn more about the non-profit organization that assists firefighters and their families in need, as well as fire victims.

In 2016, the Foundation dispersed nearly $325,000 in support, helping a variety of individuals including injured firefighters, a fire family member with a medical emergency, and fire victims with a housing crisis.

To purchase tickets to the Kings/Thunder January 15th game, go to kingsgrouptickets.com/firefamily and use the promo code: "Fire" to access the group pricing.

For more information about Fire Family Foundation, visit firefamilyfoundation.org.

- BRENDA REES FOR FIRE FAMILY FOUNDATION

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PAGE 26

Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Kitten Rescued by Unlikely Heroes

(L to R): VCFD Division Chief Norm Plott, VCFD Fire Chief Mark Lorenzen, VC Supervisor Kathy Long, Fillmore Mayor Diane McCall, Fillmore City Manager David Rowlands and Fillmore Fire Chief Keith Gurrola.

VENTURA COUNTY FD

Ventura County Fire Breaks Ground for New Station in Fillmore

Camarillo, CA – The Ventura County Fire Department hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, October 19th, for a new fire station coming to Fillmore in early 2018. VCFD, along with County Supervisor Kathy Long, Fillmore Fire Chief Keith Gurrola and officials from the City of Fillmore, celebrated the start of construction for the future 2.7-acre site of Fire Station 27, located off Highway 126 at 133 C Street in Fillmore. “Today we honor over three decades of partnership between Ventura County Fire Protection District, the City of Fillmore and the community we serve by celebrating a new beginning for a County Fire Station,” said Supervisor Kathy Long, “I am proud to be a part of this important opportunity to enhance public safety in the Santa Clara Valley.”

ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

REDLANDS FD

Redlands, CA - Redlands Fire Station 264 is the pot of gold at the end of this double rainbow!

San Bernardino, CA - A group of unlikely heroes from San Bernardino County Fire (SBCoFD) helped free a trapped kitten from an engine compartment on Thursday, October 20th.

Around 1:30 P.M., a San Bernardino resident arrived in a white JUMP TO FILE# SUV at the San 102416104 Bernardino FD Household Hazardous Waste Material Reuse Store, located at 2824 E. W Street. While the car was parked, Juan Gloria, a Fire Equipment Technician, heard a faint noise coming from the vehicle.

Other staff from SBCoFD Facilities Maintenance and Household Hazardous Waste helped determine that a kitten was trapped within the vehicle’s engine compartment.

Maintenance Specialist Jeff Pollack helped disassemble the vehicle’s air filter and window washer fluid tank where the kitten was stuck.

Randy Miller, Equipment Technician II and John Singleton, Fire Equipment Technician, helped safely remove the kitten. The kitten was physically unharmed during the rescue and returned to the resident to be delivered to its new adoptive home.

The resident claimed that the vehicle’s hood was left open overnight. SBCoFD reminds residents to be cautious of animals searching for warmth inside vehicles, engine compartments and homes as temperatures begin to drop.

- SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

NEWPORT BEACH FD

Sacramento, CA - Newport Beach FD members honored one of their own, Battalion Chief George Pearce, during the California Professional Firefighters Memorial, held in October. A total of 27 names were added to the wall this year. Chief Pearce passed away from cancer in January of 2015, just shortly after retiring.

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA

Nov/Dec, 2016

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Nov/Dec, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - CA