1st Responder Mid Atlantic Sept Oct Edition

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SEPT/OCT, 2018

TWO-ALARM BLAZE IN SUMMIT POINT SENDS FOUR TO AREA HOSPITALS

JOHN BORELLI

Summit Point, WV - On the morning of June 7th, Jefferson County 911 received reports of a structure fire on Lewisville Road in Summit Point. Dispatchers received the call shortly after 10:00 A.M., reporting smoke coming from the building at 2455 Lewisville Road. The caller stated that one of the occupants may be wheelchair-bound and possibly still inside the building.

- See full story on page 5

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Sept/Oct, 2018

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1st Responder News (ISSN 017-633) - Mid Atlantic Edition - Vol. 18, No. 2 - 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 Street, 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 A division of: errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

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(L to R): Leslie Pope, Karley Womax and Robert L. Lightcap.

CLAYTON FIRE CO.

Clayton Fire Co. Announces Winner of Annual Linda Lightcap Memorial Scholarship Fund Clayton, DE – Each year, the Clayton Fire Company awards a $1,000 scholarship to a member or a family member in memory of Linda Lightcap. Linda was an active member of the ladies auxiliary and died suddenly several years ago. The scholarship was named in her memory.

Linda was the wife of Past President Robert L. Lightcap and the mother of Past Chief Robert J. Lightcap. Her daughter, Sharon, is a member of the ladies auxiliary.

This year’s winner, Karley Womax, was presented with her $1,000 scholarship by chairperson

JUMP TO FILE #070918111 Leslie Pope and Robert L. Lightcap. Karley is the daughter of Kristy and Paul Womax of Clayton. Karley’s mom is an associate member of the company and her brother Ryan is an active firefighter.

Karley will be attending Delaware Tech Terry Campus SEED program, majoring in Elementary Education.

- KEVIN WILSON

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Sept/Oct, 2018

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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

OLD & NEW

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The old and new patch of the District of Columbia Fire Department, located in Washington, D.C.

DC FIRE AND EMS

Chemical Spill Seriously Injures One Person in DC

Washington, DC - Two civilians were injured, one seriously, after coming into contact with a spill from a strong cleaning compound in a northwest apartment building on Friday, July 13th.

A medical local was originally dispatched to 3945 Connecticut Avenue NW at 8:08 A.M. for the report of a person burned. Units that responded on the initial call located and transported two victims, and requested a hazmat assignment for the chemical spill. Members of Rescue Squad 2 and the Hazmat Unit found a small spill that involved a sulfuric acid based cleaning liquid.

The hazmat team contained and absorbed the spill.

Old patch.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

MEMORIAL BOARD

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DC FIRE AND EMS

New patch.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

DC Fire and EMS mourns the loss of Retired Captain James P. Seavey, Sr., who passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2018. Captain Seavey was appointed on May 27, 1986, and was assigned to Truck 1. He retired on January 9, 2016, as the Captain of Truck 11. Rest in Peace, Captain Seavey.

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Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 5

WEST VIRGINIA

Friendship VFD operating on the scene of the 2-Alarm blaze in Summit Point.

JOHN BORELLI

Two-Alarm Blaze in Summit Point Sends Four to Area Hospitals Summit Point, WV - On the morning of June 7th, Jefferson County 911 received reports of a structure fire on Lewisville Road in Summit Point. Dispatchers received the call shortly after 10:00 A.M., reporting smoke coming from the building at 2455 Lewisville Road. The caller stated that one of the occupants may be wheelchair-bound and possibly still inside the building.

Multiple units due on Box 295 from Jefferson County, WV and Clarke County, VA were dispatched out at 10:11 A.M. Units were advised of the caller’s report of possible entrapments and a second-alarm was immediately requested as Independent Fire’s Wagon 4 reported smoke showing from Route 340.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Dept. arrived shortly after dispatch and found heavy smoke coming from the building. Neighbors were able to assist the occupants out of the home prior to the Deputy’s arrival on the scene.

Deputies reported to dispatch that all occupants were out of the building and advised that the house was fully involved. Independent Wagon 4, with the paramedic off of ALS 4, arrived shortly after Jefferson County Deputies and confirmed they had a two-story structure with heavy smoke showing from the 'Alpha' and 'Bravo' sides, and fire showing from the attic on side 'Delta'.

Firefighters deployed an attack line to begin their fire attack as ALS 4 began assessing the patients on the scene, confirming one burn patient and requesting aviation started on the call. Firefighters had heavy fire conditions in the attic, which was rapidly spreading. Firefighters were forced to evacuate Division II of the structure due to heavy fire

JUMP TO FILE #061218110 conditions in the floor joists, compromising structural integrity.

Crews battled the blaze for nearly an hour before getting a significant knock on the flames and bringing the incident under control. Firefighters were committed for several hours conducting extensive overhaul operations.

Remaining crews were able to wrap up operations shortly after 12:00 P.M. The cause of the morning blaze has not been released, but is not believed to be malicious in nature. The building sustained moderate damage and four people sustained injuries as a result of the fire. One patient was airlifted by Air Care 4 to MedStar in Washington, D.C. for serious injuries.

The second occupant and two neighbors that assisted them out of the house were transported by ground to Jefferson Memorial where they were treated and released for non-life-threatening injuries.

Nearly 50 emergency personnel responded to the incident from three different states. Jefferson County crews on the call responded from Citizens VFC Co.2, Friendship VFD Co.1, Independent VFD Co.4, Blue Ridge Mountain VFD Co.5, Middleway VFD Co.6, Bakerton VFD Co.7, Shepherdstown VFD Co.3, and Jefferson County Emergency Services.

Citizens received mutual aid assistance from Clarke County, VA’s John H. Enders Fire & Rescue Squad Co.1 and Washington County, MD’s Rohrersville Fire Co.8.

- WILLIAM KING

Front end of the vehicle while still against the tree it crashed into.

ZACH SIPE

Crash Entraps One, Injures Two in Berkeley Springs Berkeley Springs, WV - On the evening of Tuesday, July 3rd at 6:42 P.M., Berkeley Springs Vol. Fire Company (1) and Morgan County EMS (7) were alerted for a vehicle versus tree with reported entrapment. Morgan County EMS were the first units on the street with Medic 76 and Medic 77, while Captain 1 and Sergeant 1 were en route to the station.

While en route, Morgan County Communications received a single call reporting a vehicle into a tree with two people in the vehicle. Rescue Squad 1 and Wagon 13, both from Berkeley Springs, responded as Medic 76 and Medic 77 were arriving on scene, confirming reports of a vehicle into the tree with one patient self-extricated and one patient heavily entrapped. With that information, Captain 1 requested Great Cacapon Squad 2 to be dispatched to assist.

The crash was only one-and-ahalf miles from the Berkeley Springs Fire Station; therefore, Rescue Squad 1 and Wagon 13 arrived fairly quickly and Captain 1 established the Fearnow Com-

JUMP TO FILE #070418103 mand. Portable 7-12 advised Captain 1 that aviation had been dispatched and the landing zone was going to be at Warm Springs Middle School, about one-and-a-half miles from the scene. Rescue Squad 1 positioned to secure the vehicle with it's Winch system and crews began stabilizing the vehicle with cribbing while other personnel deployed the hydraulic tools to begin extrication.

Due to the extreme heat, 95degrees at the beginning of incident with a heat index around 106-degrees, Command requested additional manpower from Hancock, Maryland Engine Co. 5, just over half way through the extrication. Hancock Engine 5-2 responded with four and arrived just as crews were finishing extrication. During extrication, MedStar 1 from Washington, D.C's Washington Hospital Center landed at the Warm Springs Middle School.

The crew from MedStar was transported to the scene by a few

Deputy Reserves from the Morgan County Sheriff's Department.

Once the patient was extricated after 57 minutes, they were loaded into the awaiting Medic unit.

The crew from MedStar 1 began assessing the patient and transporting to the awaiting helicopter. Berkeley Springs VFC Engine 11 handled the landing zone at the nearby school. The patient was airlifted to Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, VA. Current conditions of the patient are unknown. The Morgan County, WV Sheriff's Department is handling the crash investigation.

Units on scene included Berkeley Springs VFC Wagon 13, Rescue Squad 1 at the crash site, Engine 11 at the LZ, Great Cacapon VFC Squad 2, Hancock MD's Engine 5-2, Morgan EMS Medic 77, Medic 76, Portable 712 and Chief 7, Morgan County Sheriff's Department, West Virginia State Police, MedStar 1 (Washington Hospital Center), and Morgan County Sheriff's Department Deputy Reserves.

- ZACHARY SIPE

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Sept/Oct, 2018

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In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty

North Carolina: Michael Goodnight, 55 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: July 4, 2018 Death Date: July 4, 2018 Fire Department: West Liberty Fire Department Initial Summary: While responding to a reported traffic incident, Firefighter Michael Goodnight was involved in a two motor vehicle accident and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other adult civilians in the second vehicle involved in the accident had to be extricated from their vehicle and were airlifted to a hospital. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the accident.

Wisconsin: Cory Barr, 34 Rank: Captain Incident Date: July 10, 2018 Death Date: July 10, 2018 Fire Department: Sun Prairie Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain Cory Barr responded with crews to a report of a natural gas leak after a contractor struck a natural gas main in downtown Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. After the firefighters, along with law enforcement, arrived on scene to investigate the source of the leak and evacuate the area, there was an explosion that leveled multiple buildings. Captain Barr suffered injuries after being knocked down under a rubble pile as a result of the explosion and was transported by Sun Prairie EMS to UW Madison where he later passed away. A second firefighter was also injured in the explosion and is in critical, but stable, condition. A third firefighter with a minor injury was also admitted to a hospital.

Three additional firefighters, one police officer, and seven civilians also suffered minor injuries.

New York: Michael F. Cherubini, 71 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: July 4, 2018 Death Date: July 4, 2018

Fire Department: Hague Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While riding as a passenger in a brush truck, at a parade in a nearby town, Lieutenant Cherubini became ill. His wife, who is also a member of the department and was the driver of the brush truck, immediately drove home. He was helped inside of his house by his wife and collapsed soon after. The nature and cause of the medical emergency has yet to be determined.

California: Braden Varney, 36 Rank: Firefighter/Equipment Operator Incident Date: July 14, 2018 Death Date: July 14, 2018 Fire Department: CAL FIRE Initial Summary: Firefighter/Equipment Operator Braden Varney was assigned to the Madera-Mariposa CAL FIRE unit, which has been fighting the 130-acre Ferguson Fire in the Sierra National Forest. On 07/14/2018, Firefighter/Equipment Operator Varney was working on a ridge to create a fire break. The bulldozer Varney was operating overturned and rolled down the ridge causing Varney to suffer fatal injuries. The wreckage was spotted by airplane on 07/15/2018 and crews reached the site and removed Varney's body on 07/16/2018. The accident is being investigated by Cal/OSHA. New York: Zachary J. Fazekas, 19 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: July 14, 2018 Death Date: July 14, 2018 Fire Department: New Hyde Park Fire Department Initial Summary: While driving to an EMS training class, Firefighter Zachary Fazekas was involved in a single vehicle accident and ejected from his motorcycle. Fazekas was pronounced dead at the scene from the injuries he sustained in the accident.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

WEST VIRGINIA

PAGE 7

Not Sure What to Cook?....Stuff It! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

Anytime I have a difficult time figuring out what to make at the firehouse, I usually end up stuffing some peppers. Peppers are a great “vehicle” for stuffing because they are basically a blank canvas flavorwise, especially the watery bell pepper variety; and when it comes time to decide what flavor profile you are going for, have fun with it.

Here are some classic combiHead-on crash entraps one in Berkeley Springs.

Sept/Oct, 2018

nations: -Mexican (Rice, Beans, Ground Beef, Taco Seasoning, Cheddar) -Greek (Rice, Kalamata Olives, Tomato, Onion, Grilled Chicken, Tzatziki Sauce) -Tuscan (Cannellini Beans, Fresh Rosemary, Mushrooms, Ground Pork) -Chicken Parm (Ground Chicken, Tomato Sauce, Garlic, Mozzarella) -Asian (Rice, Bok Choy, Ground Beef, Hoisin Sauce) Stuffed peppers make great firehouse meals because you don’t need five different pots and pans so clean up is nice and easy, which I am sure the entire crew will ap-

preciate! All you need is a baking/sheet pan, cast iron pan, or any ovenproof skillet. They are also a great way to introduce healthier cooking into the firehouse through the use of more vegetables and portion control.

Because it takes a little longer to eat, you tend to eat less.

So next time you need to come up with something new for the firehouse menu, think about stuffing some peppers. And don’t forget to Stay Safe, Eat Well!

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @forkandhoseco@gmail.com Check out our website www.forkandhoseco.com for more recipes!

ZACH SIPE

CHICKEN SAUSAGE-STUFFED PEPPERS Head-On Crash in Berkeley W/QUICK MUSHROOM RAGU Springs Sends Four to Hospital Berkeley Springs, WV - During the early afternoon hours of August 25th, crews from Berkeley Springs Volunteer Fire Company, Great Cacapon VFC and Morgan County EMS responded to a headon crash on Cacapon Road, near Cold Run Valley Road. Rescue Squad 1 and Wagon 13 responded almost immediately; Rescue Squad 2 was already on scene, as they had witnessed the crash.

Squad 2 reported multiple patients, with one patient needing extrication. Rescue Squad 1 arrived and assisted with closing the road. Sergeant 1 established command and requested an additional EMS unit for additional patients.

JUMP TO FILE #090718113 After further evaluation, Sergeant 1 requested two additional EMS units for a total of four EMS units for (one) Priority-1 patient, (two) Priority-2 patients and (one) Priority-3 patient.

Morgan County EMS transported a total of four patients to War Memorial Hospital in Berkeley Springs. Crews remained on scene for nearly two hours until the roadway was cleared.

DID YOU K NOW

- ZACHARY SIPE

?

EMTs and Paramedics treat approximately 25-30 million people each year!

Serves 3

STUFFED PEPPER INGREDIENTS: 1 Cup Cooked Rice, White or Brown 4 Bell Peppers, cut in half lengthwise and seeded, ribs removed 1 lb. Chicken Sausage 1 Yellow Onion, sliced thin 1 Cubanelle Pepper, seeded and sliced thin 2 Garlic Cloves, chopped Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt, to taste 1 Cup Panko Breadcrumbs ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese

STUFFED PEPPER PROCEDURE: -Preheat oven to 400* -In a large skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and the chicken sausage. Brown and cook through. Remove and set aside.

-Add the Cubanelle pepper and onions, sauté until onion is translucent. Add the garlic and stir to prevent burning. Remove and place in a bowl with the rice.

-Chop the sausage into bite size pieces and add to the rice/pepper/onion bowl.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

-In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

-Pour the mushroom ragu

(recipe below) into a baking pan. Place the halved peppers on top and stuff with the rice mixture. Top each pepper with the breadcrumb mixture. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

QUICK MUSHROOM RAGU INGREDIENTS:

8 oz. Package of Mushrooms, chopped 28 oz. Crushed Tomatoes 2 Garlic Cloves, chopped 1 Tsp. Dry Basil 1 Tsp. Chili Flakes

PROCEDURE:

-In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add enough olive oil to just cover bottom. Add the chopped mushrooms and stir until all the water is out of them and they start to brown. Lower the heat to low, add the chili flake, garlic and dried basil. When the garlic just starts to color, add the tomatoes. Cook at a simmer while you assemble the peppers.

PAGE 8

Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

VIRGINIA

HENRICO FIRE

Dog Rescued, No Injuries in Henrico House Fire

PROVIDED

Ruckersville Firefighters Complete Water Rescue Despite Access Issues Ruckersville, VA - Ruckersville firefighters were dispatched back on May 31st for a couple trapped in fast-moving flood waters. The initial crew arrived and found one patient trapped in the water with access issues. Truck 27's crew with Lt. Thompson made the decision to take a narrow dirt access road to allow positioning of the truck.

Once backed in, the outriggers were placed with minimum space to spare and the ladder was flown between a narrow opening, allowing 27 Truck’s crew and the HTR techs from the Rescue access to

JUMP TO FILE #061518107 rescue one patient. The female patient was placed in the bucket and flown back where she was treated by awaiting EMS personnel.

This was one of many water related rescues made within 24 hours after the area was hit by significant flooding.

Lt. Thompson’s crew showed why training and crew consistency is invaluable!

Henrico County, VA – Henrico firefighters rescued a dog and there were no injuries after a house fire in Henrico’s east end. Firefighters were called to the 4800 block of Brittles Lane at 4:10 A.M. on July 6th where neighbors were reporting a house on fire and suspected that there were people still inside.

Firefighters fought through heavy smoke and intense heat to

JUMP TO FILE #070918109 search for victims while putting the fire out, but none of the occupants were at home during the time of the fire. Firefighters did find and rescue the occupants' dog. The occupants will be displaced, but will not need Red Cross services.

The cause of the fire is being in-

vestigated by the Henrico Fire Marshal's Office.

This fire was reported by neighbors watching out for other neighbors and Henrico Fire reminds citizens not to assume that any emergency has been reported.

If you see a fire, call 911.

- HENRICO FIRE

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

- SEAN RYAN

Submitting photos and press releases is EASY!

Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly.

Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

FRANK ROBINSON

General Electric of Waynesboro, VA Fire Brigade once ran this 1951 Willys 250/80. It is now privately owned.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

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Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

VIRGINIA

Unattended Food Cooking Leads to Apartment Fire in Henrico Henrico County, VA – Henrico firefighters responded to a report of an apartment fire in the 9000 block of Cloisters West on July 18th just after 7:00 P.M. Firefighters quickly arrived JUMP TO FILE# and extinguished a 071918106 fire in the kitchen of an apartment.

Smoke from the fire got into a neighboring apartment and the occupant was taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. That injury did not appear to be lifethreatening.

The cause of the fire was found to be from unattended food cooking on the stove. Two families, including seven adults and four children, were displaced and will be assisted by the Red Cross.

- HENRICO FIRE

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HENRICO FIRE

Henrico Firefighters Battle Apartment Fire During Heat of Day

Henrico County, VA – Henrico firefighters worked through the heat on July 16th to fight an apartment fire in the 2900 block of Murano Way, near I-295 and Staples Mill Road. The call came in at 2:53 P.M. and firefighters arrived to find a large amount of fire inside, as well as on the outside of the building. Firefighters checked the building for occupants while they extinguished the fire. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Extra fire crews were brought in so that crews could be rotated to cool due to the high temperatures.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Covington Fire Department, located in Covington County, VA.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Firefighting in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 1741-1917 ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

Firefighting in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, 1741-1917

By Chris Eline, Nancy Rutman and Karen Samuels Available from: Karen Samuels karensameuls0@gmail.com (note, number “0”) or from Amazon.com Price: $34.95 This book is softcover, 8 inches by 10 inches, and is 136 pages long. It was put together by the exhaustive research of the three authors mentioned above. I am really not a history buff, but after reviewing this book I was totally impressed by their dedication and relentless pursuit in the details and contents of this book.

All are residents of Bethlehem and Chris was a member of the BFD for 24 years.

This book is actually a history of four fire departments which represented four sections of the city: North Side, South Side, West Side and Northampton Heights. Bethlehem, nicknamed the “Christmas City”, is in Northampton County and was founded in 1741. The forward is written by the former mayor and councilman. Almost every page has some sort of illustration, whether it be a photo, picture,

painting, map, drawing or what have you, there is much to enjoy when reading this publication. In fact, if a page does not have an illustration, there is one on the opposite page!

Within the pages of the different chapters are three topics including Tools of the Trade (from simple buckets to the Hayes hook & ladder trucks), Memorable Fires, and Faces at the Scene (about memorable personalities).

Some are side stories, but all are interesting. One is about the Norman Horse (Tools of the Trade) on page 25. This type horse was purchased because it was fast, intelligent and strong. It was bred as a war horse and ranged from 5 foot 6 inches to 5 foot 11 inches tall.

There is a picture of this type horse on this page.

On page 29 is a brief about the Matthews hydrant and the reasons behind its design that made it superior. I remember a section of my hometown that has some Matthews hydrants! Sanborn fire insurance maps are also written about. I remember a book of these maps in our fire headquarters.

These maps detailed the structures in town with an overhead drawing.

All in all, this book is a must for anyone interested in history. You will not be disappointed!

The three authors have a partnership called Perseverance Publishing and are working on a another book, Firefighting in Bethlehem, 1981-2018, which would bring the city’s history up to date. It is expected to be published this year.

D ID YOU K NOW

?

There are currently over 1 million firefighters in the United States. About 750,000 of these firefighters are volunteers.

Sept/Oct, 2018

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Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK

1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

"I joined the fire service in April of 2017 and it has quickly become a passion. May 19th, 2018 became the worst day of my life when my wife and I lost our son due to an infection during the pregnancy. I got this tattoo so he will always be with me, and to honor him because he is my hero for saving his mother." -FF Trevor Kelley, East Granby Fire Department

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

VIRGINIA

Teen Steals Chesterfield County Police Cruiser, Crashes During Pursuit Chesterfield, VA - A 19-year-old driver was transported to a hospital

by Chesterfield Fire and EMS for medical evaluation after stealing a Chesterfield County Police Cruiser on July 16th. The teen struck multiple vehicles in different locations before crashing.

According to Elizabeth Caroon, JUMP TO FILE# spokesperson for 071618134 Chesterfield County Police, the incident began around noon when police were called to the McDonald's in the 5900 block of Hopkins Road for the report that a suspect was trying to steal a vehicle.

An employee of the restaurant was with the suspect, as was another male, Caroon explained. An officer arrived on scene soon after. At one point, the suspect entered the officer's marked police vehicle and fled in it. The suspect then struck a nonpolice vehicle in that area; no one was injured, Caroon said.

Officers spotted the stolen vehicle on northbound Chippenham Parkway; the suspect exited Chippenham Parkway and headed west on Midlothian Turnpike as officers pursued him.

According to Caroon, the suspect lost control of the vehicle in the 9500 block of Midlothian Turnpike and went into the median. Officers were able to box the stolen vehicle in and apprehend the suspect.

Charges are pending.

- BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT

A 19-year-old was transported to a hospital by Chesterfield Fire & EMS after stealing a Chesterfield County Police Cruiser on July 16th and striking multiple vehicles in different locations before crashing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHESTERFIELD POLICE DEPT.

COMMAND VEHICLES If you have photos you would like to see in our Command Vehicles feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Members of Defense Logistics Agency-Richmond Fire & EMS respond to incidents in this vehicle.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 13

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Sept/Oct, 2018

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MARYLAND

A Valuable Commodity Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

WCVFRA-PT: MIKE WEGNER

I-70 was shut down for nearly two-and-a-half hours after a Jeep caught fire and struck the guardrail.

One Burn Patient Dies, Three Others Hospitalized After Jeep Catches Fire in Washington County Washington County, MD - On the evening of August 24th, Washington County 911 received multiple calls reporting a vehicle fire on Interstate 70 westbound. Washington County had reports of a vehicle on fire in the area of the 38 Mile Marker with a possible burn patient.

Emergency crews from Mt. Aetna Fire, Myersville Fire and Community Rescue Service were dispatched on the call at 5:29 P.M. Calls continued to flood the 911 center with additional reports that the incident may have been the result of a vehicle accident. Washington County immediately upgraded the assignment to a personal injury collision.

Washington County 911 continued receiving calls as units responded with reports of three burn patients. Dispatchers relayed the patient information to the units, contacted SYSCOM and requested aviation to be launched. Myersville Rescue Engine 8-3 was the first unit to arrive, finding a Jeep Wrangler into a guardrail and fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters deployed their attack line and began their fire attack as other firefighters assisted Myersville Ambulance 8-9 with triage of the patients they had on the scene. Captain Dennis Browne from Community Rescue arrived

JUMP TO FILE #082518104 on scene and established I-70 Command.

Upon arrival of Chief James Sprecher for Community Rescue, Sprecher assumed Command and assigned Captain Browne to handle EMS operations as they evaluated the three occupants of the vehicle for injuries, and Mt. Aetna Deputy Chief Richard Fleming to oversee fire operations. Firefighters were able to get a quick knock on the fire within minutes of their arrival. Captain Browne confirmed with Washington County that they had three burn patients and that they were evaluating a possible fourth patient. EMS personnel quickly evaluated and packaged all patients.

The three occupants of the Jeep were the only patients treated

by EMS. One adult patient was flown by Maryland State Police Aviation Command’s Trooper 3 to Johns Hopkins Bayview Burn Center in Baltimore with severe burns to almost 90% of the body.

A second helicopter was requested by command for two juveniles that also sustained burns, but was later canceled due to its extended ETA to the scene.

The remaining two juvenile

patients were transported by ground to Meritus Medical Center where they were treated and later transferred out to another facility.

The adult transported to Bayview later succumbed to their injuries.

Both juveniles remained hospitalized as of August 26th, but their current conditions are unknown.

Investigators from the Maryland State Police and Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office were called in to investigate the incident. The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office later released their findings, stating that the Jeep Wrangler had caught fire while in motion, causing the driver to lose control and strike the guardrail.

Damages to the Jeep were estimated to be around $8,000. Interstate 70 remained closed for over two hours until the scene was able to be cleared of all hazards by the towing agency.

Emergency crews on the call responded from Washington and Frederick Counties. Companies on the call consisted of personnel from Mt. Aetna Fire Co.16, Funkstown Fire Co.10, Community Rescue Co.75, Frederick County, MD’s Myersville Fire & EMS Co.8, and Maryland State Police Aviation Command’s Trooper 3.

- WILLIAM KING

Visit 1st Responder on the Web at www.1RBN.com

They say that trust is a valuable commodity, and it is. Many times trust has to be earned and not blindly given, except for some rare groups of people. One group of people that trust is given to is emergency services. Emergency services are trusted because when people call 911, they trust us with their lives, the lives of loved ones, and their property. They trust that we know what we are doing and that we can help the situation.

We not only get people’s trust, but people also put their hope in us. When emergency services roll, we get situations that are beyond the client's skill set or resources. A mother hands over a child who is not breathing and they are hoping that we can bring breath to the child’s lungs. A family that has just found a relative on the floor, who has no heartbeat, is hoping that a defibulator and crew can perform CPR to give that person a heartbeat once again.

Emergency services does not get the easy calls. We get called when a car may be wrapped around a tree or telephone pole.

The crew has to work within the Golden Hour to get the person to the hospital. There may be a person trapped in a burning house.

There may be hostages in a bank or supermarket, that law enforcement needs to rescue.

In many situations, emergency services is given the trust and people put all their hope in us. Sometimes we may actually think about all the responsibility that is thrust upon us and it can be overwhelming. We know that when we have little innocent lives, it effects the crews even more. We know that the family put all their hope in us.

Sometimes it is like they think that we can always bring people back from the dead.

We also put our trust and hope in our officers and crew. We trust that our tools and our training will not fail us. We trust that our officers will utilize the resources that are available to them.

There are even times when emergency services may feel helpless. Emergency Responders may have all the training in their brain,

the skill set at their fingertips, but they may not have the proper tools to do the work needed. One of the guys that I used to work with felt that way. He was extensively trained in heavy rescue and on a great team that performed vehicle extrications often. Well, he was following a relative who got into a really bad car accident. He felt helpless because the tools that he used were not there. His truck was not there. His crew was not there.

He saw his relative in pain and knew how important the Golden Hour was, but he could not do anything to get the relative out. He had to put his hope that the town he was in would send the crew in time and that the crew would have the tools and knowledge to do what was necessary.

There are times where we know what to do and can do it, but the officers will not allow it to be done. We may feel helpless but we may not have the same situational awareness that the officer may have. They may have the big picture in view and see that the floors are going to give out, or that the roof may collapse. BUT that does not take away the fact that some of the emergency service workers feel helpless. It may even be extremely difficult for us to handle after the incident, especially if there is a loss of life.

I recently asked a group of emergency responders if they would have joined emergency services if they knew the horrors that they would be seeing. Like I figured, they said that they would do the job no matter what. To me, that is the answer of a true emergency responder; sacrifice ourselves for our fellow man.

I, personally, hope that emergency services knows that the work that is done is noble work and that they should not feel helpless if they are doing all that they can and are trained to do. Anytime that emergency services has doubts they can always put the hope in God. If you do feel that you may have doubts or may feel helpless and need to talk with someone, you can reach out to a chaplain or someone from your local crisis team.

We can always have people put their hope into God. He is always here for you.

Thank you for all you do.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh

Read previous columns from Didymus McHugh and the rest of our staff at www.1RBN.com

Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

PAGE 15

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Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

Pikesville VFC Dedicates Renovated Firehouse & New Medic Unit Pikesville, MD - It was a dark, gray and rainy day outside, but the mood was bright and sunny inside the Pikesville Volunteer Fire Company on Sunday, June 10th, as members dedicated a state-of-the-art firehouse more than 120 JUMP TO FILE # years after the com- 061018104 pany was founded.

The ceremony also marked the official placing into service of PVFC’s newest ambulance, Medic 325.

PVFC’s current firehouse was built in 1963 and a three-bay addition was added in 2003. However, the firehouse was severely lacking in living space and other amenities necessary for today’s volunteer fire service, where an increasing number of volunteers no longer reside in the company’s “first due” district and thus don’t typically respond from home.

The $1.6 million renovation includes the addition of seven offices, a board room, fitness center for members, an additional TV room, a large dining room, new kitchen and storage (all on the first floor), four private “live-in rooms” for members, six two-bed rooms for night crews, three unisex bathrooms, a laundry facility, and a lounge/tv room on the second floor. Renovations were done entirely within the building’s existing footprint.

Exterior building renovations include a new lighted “32” emblem on top of the hose tower, painting of the building, replacement of concrete aprons, refurbishing of the parking lot, new landscaping, refurbishing and relocation of the company firebell, and a “brick garden” for the company’s fundraising efforts. Additions include a museum, where PVFC’s original Gould hand pumper from 1897 and other com-

pany artifacts are on display, and a “community meeting room” of approximately 2,500 square-feet.

Funds for the renovation include $250,000 in private funds (including $100,000 from Ernst & Meta Oppenheimer Charitable Trust, $250,000 in bond bill funding from the 2016 legislative session; a Baltimore County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Loan Fund of approximately $732,000 supported by Senator Amoss (508) funds), and a BCVFA Loan Fund grant of $500,000. PVFC President John Berryman Jr. thanked Senator Bobby Zirkin and state Delegates Dana Stein and Shelly Hettleman for their support in securing the state funding.

BCoFD Assistant Chief Jennifer Aubert-Utz thanked PVFC for being a leader in the county’s fire service, especially for paving the way for female firefighters and emergency medical personnel, and then officially placed Medic 325 into service.

PVFC’s new ambulance has been providing EMS service since late October, responding on more than 1,300 calls for service so far.

The unit is a 2017 Dodge Ram 5500 4-wheel drive with a LifeLine body, which cost approximately $285,000. PVFC is grateful to again have the assistance of Covenant Guild, a PVFC benefactor since 1976, in providing funding assistance for this ambulance, as well funding assistance from Baltimore County.

In a fitting end to the afternoon’s activities, less than 10 minutes after the in-service ceremony, Medic 325 was alerted to an emergency call for a person who had fallen outside the Barnes & Noble store on Reisterstown Road in Pikesville.

- MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

PVFC's original 1897 hand pumper and other fire company artifacts are on display in the new museum at the renovated Pikesville Vol. Fire Co. building.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

Join the Heroes Team!

Becoming part of the Heroes team KDV LWV EHQH¿WV &RQWDFW XV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW EHFRPLQJ D +HURHV &HUWL¿HG DJHQW info@HeroesRealty.com

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877-541-HERO

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 17

MARYLAND

STILL IN SERVICE

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

CHARLIE LEWIS-FACEBOOK.COM/HOSESAXESLADDERS

Little Orleans Vol. Fire Dept. continues to run this 1978 Mack CF 600 as their second-out piece. Refurbed by Pierce in 1994, this engine was originally owned by Martinsburg, WV VFD.

CECIL COUNTY FIRE BLOG

Northeast Fire Co. arrives to find heavy fire conditions at Reb’s Used Cars, located at 513 Mechanics Valley Rd. in North East.

Three-Alarm Fire Damages Used Car Dealership in North East CHARLIE LEWIS-FACEBOOK.COM/HOSESAXESLADDERS

The Orleans Vol. Fire Dept. continues to run this 1986 Interantional Tanker as T-43. It has a 2500-gallon tank and a 1250-GPM pump.

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.

This patch belongs to the College Park Vol. Fire Dept., located in Prince George County, MD.

North East, MD - On the afternoon of August 31st, Cecil County 911 received calls reporting a building fire at Reb’s Used Cars, located at 513 Mechanics Valley Road in North East. The North East Volunteer Fire Co. was dispatched out with several other departments on Box 400 at 4:19 P.M. as calls continued to flood the 911 center.

Cecil County Paramedic 4 marked up directly after dispatch from Paramedic 2’s station, reporting heavy smoke showing from their location. Within a matter of minutes, Paramedic 4 arrived to find a working structure fire, reporting that he had a 40’x60’ steel frame shed with heavy fire conditions and exposures. North East’s Chief 4 arrived directly after Paramedic 4, confirming their report as he established command and requested dispatch to start the second-alarm assignment.

Firefighters attempted to use deck gun operations to begin their attack while also deploying multiple attack lines. Crews were faced with heavy fire conditions that involved a large service bay that contained multiple flammables stored throughout, along with a large number of tires. Firefighters battled the blaze trying to protect surrounding exposures as the fire continued to spread.

Command continued to assess

JUMP TO FILE #091118109 the situation and recognized the need for additional resources and fresh manpower, and called for the third-alarm assignment. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before getting a significant knock down on the flames and gaining control of the blaze. Crews were able to keep the fire contained to the main fire building.

Emergency crews were committed on the scene well into the evening conducting extensive overhaul operations.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Northeast Regional Office had four investigators on the scene working the investigation. The 40’x60’ steel shed, which was the main fire building, was a total loss.

The adjacent two-story building, which housed the business’s offices on the first-floor and three apartments on the second-floor, sustained extensive heat, soot and water damage.

Nine people who lived in the apartments above the office were displaced due to the fire and are currently receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. In a release from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, damage estimates to the structure and its contents are valued to be around $200,000, but no injuries were re-

ported. The cause of the blaze has not yet been released and remains under investigation.

Over 50 emergency personnel responded on the incident from four different counties from Maryland, Pennsylvania and Delaware.

North East VFC Co.4 responded out with additional Cecil County crews from Chesapeake City VFC Co.2, Singerly Fire Co.3, Charlestown Fire Co.5, Community Fire Co. of Perryville Co.6, Water Witch Fire Co.7, Community Fire Co. of Rising Sun Co.8., and Cecil County EMS Paramedic 4.

Additional mutual aid was received on the scene from Harford County, MD’s Level VFC Co.1., Susquehanna Hose Co.5, Lancaster County, PA’s Rawlinsville Fire Co. 5-8, Chester County, PA’s Union Fire Co.21, and New Castle County, DE’s Rehab Unit out of St. Francis Hospital in Wilmington.

Additional assistance was received from Harford County, MD crews from Bel Air VFC Co.3, Abingdon VFC Co.4, Susquehanna Hose Co.5, and Lancaster, PA crews from Bart Twp. Fire Co.5-1 and Quarryville Fire Co.57, who transferred units and covered the area while crews were committed on the incident.

- WILLIAM KING

PAGE 18

Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 19

eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes

For many Americans, funding the down payment necessary to realize a dream of home ownership simply is not possible; and squirreling away the dollars to do so on a limited budget could mean several years of renting and waiting to buy a house. In some cases, first responders and other community service employees have trouble affording homes in the areas where they work.

With a purchase as big as buying a home, a little help can go a long way.

The Advantage Program, introduced to the Heroes Mortgage platform by eLEND, helps hometown heroes like police officers, volunteer and paid firefighters, EMS workers, medical professionals and educators purchase a home within the community where they work, even in high-cost areas. The unique down payment assistance program was specifically designed for those who make a difference in other people’s lives, as well as first time home buyers.

“The Heroes Mortgage platform helps connect members of the emergency services community with lenders that are specifically interested in working with them,” said Joseph P. Belsito, publisher of 1st Responder Newspaper.

“The Advantage Program created by eLEND is exactly what makes the Heroes Mortgage Pro-

“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform. It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”

- BILL PACKER Executive Vice President eLEND

gram a valuable resource for heroes in our community looking for home financing.”

Grant provides help to homebuyers Many buyers wait patiently on the sidelines, saving money and watching interest rates rise. Unlike many other home buying assistance programs, eLEND’s Advantage Program provides a grant for the down pay-

ment. These resources can immediately build a borrower’s buying power, helping them act on a purchase more quickly for either that first home, or a move-up home as the family has grown and needs more space.

Qualified buyers can receive grants up to 2% of the purchase price, minimizing the

down payment dollars needed at closing.

The grant is “forgivable” so it doesn’t have to be paid back, and there are no resale or borrower repayment restrictions. In the state of Wisconsin, appraisal cost (up to $700) is credited back at closing. This program is not yet available in Hawaii or Washington.

To qualify, a borrower need only meet one of the following very flexible requirements: a current, retired, volunteer or professional first responder (police officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.), educator, medical personnel, civil servant or military personnel, or a first-time homebuyer or meet certain income requirements.

“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform,” said Bill Packer, executive vice president of eLEND, a division of American Financial Resources, Inc. “It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”

For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.

For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.

PAGE 20

Sept/Oct, 2018

Bob Long

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

FRANK ROBINSON

Rangers Hose Company in Girardville, PA operates a 1990 Pierce Lance 1250/2500 Pumper Tanker. The unit previously saw service at Hollywood, Maryland Volunteer Fire Department.

PROMO CODE FH16

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 21

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Sept/Oct, 2018

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MARYLAND

Vehicle News

Sandy Spring Vol. Fire Dept. in Montgomery County has taken delivery of new Boat Support 740, a 2017 Dodge/Reading.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075 MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075

Baltimore City firefighters monitor the scene of the underground electrical fire in downtown Baltimore.

Underground Electrical Fire Injures Paramedic in Baltimore City

Fallston Vol. Fire Co. in Harford County has placed this apparatus into service as Brush 1341, a 2017 Ford F350 4WD/WildFire Truck and Equipment 240GPM/250GWT.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075

Baltimore City, MD - Shortly after 6:15 P.M. on Monday, September 24th, multiple calls came in to Baltimore City 911 reporting heavy smoke in the area of N Charles Street and W Lexington Avenue.

First arriving units reported smoke coming from several manholes in the 100 block of N Charles Street, with flames showing and

JUMP TO FILE #092518101 some manhole covers popping off and flying. Operating with a firstalarm assignment, BCFD firefighters stretched several hoselines and evacuated area buildings while awaiting BGE's response to address the underground electrical

fire.

One paramedic was transported to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center after he was thrown to the ground when one of the manhole covers exploded. Trucks 1 and 16 were damaged when the apparatus was struck by flying manhole covers.

- MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 23

MARYLAND

Vehicle News

APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Kingsville Vol. Fire Co. in Baltimore County has placed this apparatus into service as Squad 483. The rig is a 2018 Spartan/4Guys, 1250GPM/750GWT.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075

Engine 91 of Howard County Fire & Emergency Services in operation.

Hoopers Island Vol. Fire Dept. of Dorchester County has placed into service this new 2018 Pierce/Freightliner M2-112, 1250GPM/1500GWT, as Engine 51.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075

APPARATUS FOR SALE

2012 KME Panther Chassis. 22” Raised Roof, Seats 6 Refurbished Walk-In Rescue. Very low miles 3,015.

Includes: Hurst 220 Volt Power Unit, Spreader, Cutter, Rams, Combi-Tool, Reels, Hoses, with a 35KW Generator.

Asking price: $250,000 or best offer! Vehicle in very good condition. Please be adviced that the vehicle will not be available for sale until late December 2018 when our new apparatus is delivered. Contact: (732) 406-5630 or email: keasbeybofc4@yahoo.com.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

PAGE 24

Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

ACTION SHOT If you have photos for our Action Shots feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Baltimore City firefighters arrive at a rowhouse fire in the 2000 block of McElderry Street on June 16th and prepare to make a fire attack.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/FIREPIX1075

A Hagerstown firefighter uses an attack line after the bulk of the fire is knocked with the deck gun on Engine 5.

J.ULRICH

Family of Four Displaced by Early Morning Blaze in Hagerstown Hagerstown, MD - On the morning of September 10th, Washington County received a call reporting a house fire on Noland Drive in the south end of Hagerstown. Hagerstown Fire Department crews were dispatched out at 12:37 A.M. on Box 3-5-4-9 to 1060-C Noland Drive for the call.

Washington County 911 had reports of a fire in the upper bedroom of the residence as additional calls came in from neighbors reporting flames showing from the second floor. Paramedic 268 from Halfway Fire Co. arrived reporting to dispatch that they had fire showing from Divisions I and II and requested the Safety Task Force started.

Hagerstown Engine 5 arrived directly after Paramedic 26-8 and took up position on side 'Alpha' of the structure, placing their deck gun in service to begin their fire attack as 268’s crew checked on the occupants that had already evacuated the unit prior to their arrival on scene. Firefighters had a two-story, brick, multi-unit, townhome style structure with the fire located in unit “C” near the middle of the group of townhomes.

Hagerstown Battalion Command Captain Russ Daiello arrived and established Noland Drive Command, as 268’s crew confirmed with the occupants that everyone was out of the residence involved.

JUMP TO FILE #091718101 Firefighters were able to get a significant knock on the blaze with the deck gun off Engine 5 as interior crews prepared to advance an attack line through the door on side 'Alpha' to conduct their interior attack. Crews’ aggressive tactics allowed them to gain quick control, keeping the fire contained within five minutes of their arrival on scene. Firefighters were committed for over an hour conducting overhaul operations and checking the structure for any extension to the adjoining units on either side of the residence.

Hagerstown City Fire Marshals responded to the scene to begin their investigation into what caused the devastating fire. Fire Marshal Doug Dehaven was able to confirm that the fire was accidental in nature, caused by a lamp that was knocked over in the bedroom. The lamp ended up in between the bed and some clothing on the floor. A working smoke detector alerted the family of five which allowed them to safely evacuate the structure without injury.

The family at 1060-C were the only ones displaced by the fire and are currently receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.

Several other residents in the attached homes were temporarily

evacuated as a precaution during the incident, but were later permitted to return to their homes once the fire was confirmed out.

None of the residents were reported injured during the early morning blaze, but one firefighter did sustain minor injuries during the incident and was transported

by EMS to Meritus Medical Center where they were treated and later released.

Hagerstown Fire Dept. responded with their crews from South End Fire Engine 5, First Hagerstown Hose Engine 1, Antietam Fire Engine 2, Western Enterprise Truck 4, Independent Juniors Engine 3, and Pioneer Hook & Ladder Truck 1. Hagerstown received mutual aid from Halfway VFC Co.26, Funkstown VFC Co.10, Longmeadow VFC Co.27, Washington County Special Operations 20, Washington County Air Unit 25, Washington County Rehab Unit 255, and Hagerstown City Police Auxiliary.

Additional assistance was received from Williamsport Fire Co.2, Boonsboro Fire Co.6, and Frederick County’s Middletown Fire Co.7 who transferred in to cover calls while units were committed at the scene on Noland Drive. All units were clear of the scene by 3:30 A.M. that morning.

- WILLIAM KING

ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway's 1945 International K5 Fire Truck on display at the Washington County Ag Center.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

TERRY RITZ

This 1968 Hahn formerly belonged to the Manchester Fire Department in Carroll County, Maryland.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

PAGE 25

MARYLAND

Bedford Road Squad Struck While Operating at MVA on Interstate 68 Flintstone, MD - On the afternoon of July 30th, Allegany County Communications received multiple calls reporting several different accidents on Interstate 68 eastbound, just west of Flintstone, MD. Reports described JUMP TO FILE# several accidents in 080118101 the area of the 50 mile marker during a heavy rainfall.

Emergency crews from Baltimore Pike VFD, Bedford Road VFD and Flintstone VFC were dispatched out to investigate the accidents around 1:32 P.M. Units arrived to find two separate accidents at the 53 mile marker, approximately a half mile apart.

Bedford Road Squad 3 arrived and took up position to supply blocking for Flintstone’s Ambulance as they checked the occupants involved. Firefighters checked both accident scenes, confirming no life-threatening injuries and securing any hazards found. Crews were on the scene for nearly an hour when an additional accident occurred.

Flintstone was in the process of obtaining their patient refusals when a silver sedan approached the accident and came to a complete stop in the fast lane, causing it to be struck from behind by a dump truck. The sedan was forced into Squad 3 and pushed the unit approximately 10-15 feet from its position.

At 2:10 P.M., Squad 3 reported to Allegany Dispatch that they had been involved in an accident with possible entrapments.

Squad 3 quickly assessed the scene and requested additional units to assist as firefighters began evaluating the occupants of both vehicles involved.

Firefighters found that both occupants were not entrapped and were able to safely assist them out of the vehicle without the need of extrication tools. EMS personnel began evaluating both patients as additional units responded to the scene to assist. The driver of the dump truck involved was uninjured from the accident. The occupants of the sedan were both transported to Western Maryland Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.

Squad 3 was unoccupied at the time of the collision and no emergency service personnel were injured during the accident. The incident was under investigation by the Maryland State Police.

Chief Eddie Collins of Bedford Road VFD posted on social media later that day, taking advantage of a bad situation to remind the community of why fire departments use the larger apparatus to block for EMS crews. He also made remarks reminding everyone of the “SLOW DOWN & MOVE OVER” law, which re-

BEDFORD ROAD V.F.D.

Bedford Road Squad 3 was struck while blocking for EMS crews on an accident scene at the 53 mile marker of Interstate 68 west of Flintstone, MD.

quires motorists to change lanes into an available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicles, or slow down to 10 MPH under the posted speed limit if they

are unable to change lanes. This incident could have possibly been avoided, but also could have been worse if Squad 3 wouldn’t have been positioned the way they were.

Fire and EMS crews on the scene that day consisted of Baltimore Pike VFC Co.4, Bedford Road VFD Co.3, Flintstone VFC Co.12, Bowman’s Addition VFC

Co.11, Orleans VFD Co.43, and Allegany County Department of Emergency Services.

- WILLIAM KING

PAGE 26

Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

Nearly 30 Displaced by Apartment Building Fire in Hagerstown Hagerstown, MD - On the evening of August 10th, Washington County 911 began receiving calls just after 7:30 P.M., reporting an apartment building on fire in the north end of Hagerstown. The initial caller reported that they could see flames coming from the roof of 1419 Kensington Drive at the Hyde Park Apartment Complex.

Hagerstown Fire Dept. and surrounding companies due on Box 32-4-1 were dispatched out on the assignment at 7:35 P.M. Hagerstown’s Battalion Commander, Captain Russ Daiello, marked up directly after dispatch and was advised of the caller’s report as additional calls came in reporting the blaze.

Antietam Fire Company’s Special Unit 3-2 arrived shortly after dispatch, confirming a working fire with flames through the roof. Captain Daiello immediately requested the Safety Assignment started as he approached the scene. Special Unit 3-2 assessed the scene, reporting a three-story, multi-residential structure with fire showing on side 'Bravo' of the structure. Captain Daiello arrived on the scene and established Kensington Drive Command as firefighters prepared for their fire attack.

Firefighters deployed multiple

JUMP TO FILE #082418100 attack lines and set up for ladder pipe operations as heavy flames worked their way across the roof of the building. Interior crews conducted their search for victims, which came up negative. Crews battled the blaze for nearly 20 minutes before knocking down a large bulk of the fire. Firefighters remained committed on the scene for several hours conducting extensive overhaul operations and assisting the city Fire Marshal’s office.

The incident caused heavy smoke and water damage throughout the structure, along with substantial fire damage. The structure was deemed unsafe by Hagerstown City Building Inspectors and had to be condemned due to the amount of damage and partial collapse issues within the structure. Nearly 30 occupants were displaced by the blaze.

All occupants were directed to the Community Center where American Red Cross personnel were set up to gather information from the affected victims. It was later confirmed that all occupants that were home at the time of the blaze were able to safely evacuate the structure after being alerted by the smoke and fire alarm systems in the complex. Two

uninjured kittens were found by firefighters as they checked the structure, but no injuries were reported during the incident.

Hagerstown City Fire Marshals were on the scene late Friday night into Saturday morning investigating the incident trying to determine a point of origin and cause. Fire department operations were complete shortly after midnight. Captain Daiello terminated Command around 12:27 A.M. Saturday morning, releasing the remaining units that were on the scene, except for one engine who remained for a short duration.

All fire department units were clear of the scene by 1:30 A.M. Saturday morning. City Fire Marshals were later able to determine that a malfunctioning bathroom exhaust fan caused the blaze.

Over 60 emergency personnel responded on the call from multiple agencies. Hagerstown Fire Dept. units responded from Antietam Fire Engine 2 & Special Unit 3-2, First Hagerstown Hose Engine 1, Independent Juniors Engine 3, Western Enterprise Fire Engine 4 & Truck 4, South End Fire Engine 5, and Pioneer Hook & Ladder Truck 1.

Hagerstown crews received assistance on the scene from Longmeadow Fire Co.27, Maugansville Fire Co.13, Funkstown Fire Co.10,

Washington County Special Operations 20, Washington County Division of Emergency Services, Community Rescue Co.75, Franklin County PA’s Rescue Hose Co.3, Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Safety 207, Washington County Air Unit 25, Washington County Rehab 255, Hagerstown City Police Auxiliary, Washington County Fire Police, and the American Red

WCVFRA-PT: JOHANNA WOLFE

Cross.

Transfer crews from Boonsboro Fire Co.6, Franklin County PA’s Waynesboro Fire Co.2, and Frederick County MD’s Walkersville Fire Co.11 responded into Hagerstown to cover the area while crews were committed on the call.

- WILLIAM KING

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Sept/Oct, 2018

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Sept/Oct, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA