1st Responder Mid Atlantic Nov Dec Edition

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DECEMBER, 2014 DECEMBER, 2018

LUTHERVILLE HOME DESTROYED AFTER TWO FIRES STRIKE WITHIN 14 HOURS

CHARLIE LEWIS

Lutherville, MD - Just before 2:00 P.M. on Thanksgiving Day, November 22nd, Baltimore County 911 received a call for the report of a dwelling fire in the 10700 block of Greenspring Avenue. Units arrived with smoke showing from the chimney and attic area of a large 12,000-square-foot, single-family dwelling.

- See full story on page 14

eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes SEE PAGE 19 FOR DETAILS.

Happy Holidays!

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PAGE 2

Nov/Dec, 2018

New Beginnings

DELAWARE

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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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Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh

Clayton Fire Co. Fire Police Officer Jack Davis was named State Fire Police Officer of the Year.

PROVIDED

Clayton Fire Co. Fire Police Officer Jack Davis Named State Fire Police Officer of the Year Dover, DE - On Wednesday, September 12th, Clayton Fire Company long-time serving Fire Police Officer Jack Davies was named the State Fire Police Officer of the Year during the annual fire police meeting that is held in conjunction with the annual fire conference each year.

“Jack has served the Clayton Fire Company for over 50 years," stated company President Robert Faulkner. "And he continues to respond to almost every call we have; you can always count on Jack.”

Chief of the company, Wes Davis, is the son of Jack and stated, “I think dad comes to more alarms then I do”.

Jack is part of a long serving

JUMP TO FILE #100118109 fire service family. His wife, Georgia, served as the Ladies Auxiliary president; his son has served as fire chief; his grandson, Jack III, serves as a fire captain with Clayton, and his granddaughter, Sara, is an active member of Clayton and Sudlersville, MD fire companies.

In a few months Jack looks forward to his first great-grandchild, who no doubt will be crawling around in a fire station near you. We all thank Jack for his service and dedication to Clayton!

- KEVIN WILSON

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.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

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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.

Just because we may have to get a calendar for a new year does not necessarily mean that we should hold off changing until January 1st. I know that many times we may set New Year’s resolutions, but how many of them do we see through until completion?

There have been so many changes that we have made in our lives that did not wait for January 1st. When did you sign an application to join emergency services or another organization? How about starting a new job, if the fire services is not your paying job?

Did you have a discussion with your wife to make sure that the baby was born on January 1st?

She would laugh.

So, you start to get the point.

We have our clients who have to start new lives because of a house fire, or maybe a diagnosis from the doctor, or a love one died. We have people effected by tornados, wildland fires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. These are traumatic events that we have no choice over, but they are a new beginning. I know that the phrase that I was not wild about was that it was the “new normal”. When someone has something like these events in their life, that comment will be the last thing that they want to hear.

Think about the one person that you just had to rescue from their house and the only thing that they have is that bar of soap that they are clinging onto, or the slippers on their feet. They definitely have a new beginning, but it was thrust upon them.

We do have new beginnings that we can control. You control when you want to stop smoking, start exercising, stop drinking, stop using that substance, or behaving a certain way and get assistance. We do have control of so

much in our lives; there are so many things that we do not realize we have control over, and then things that we have no control over.

There are many new beginnings each and every day. Some we are joyful for, others are full of sadness and despair. The one thing that I want to let you know is that you are not alone in this thing called life. There are people around you to assist you. They may not know what to do but they just may be there to talk with you. But you are not alone.

I have seen so many people who have gone through hell and back, who some people would see as crushed, but they made it through. They had someone, some people that they can rely on. No matter how challenging your new beginning is, remember that you always have God. He has never left you. He is here to listen to your praises and your gripes.

If you ever feel like griping to God, just read from the book of Psalms. Many of the writings are written like the author is coming to God with all their problems and then they get that moment of clarity, the V-8 moment. God is there, is the strength that can be drawn upon.

I wish that you all have the success in your new beginnings.

Please don’t forget that the new beginning can be a minute from now.

Remember the resources that you have, that you know about, and that you may discover resources that you never knew were right around you. Look for the inspiration. Listen to the whispers in the wind. Encouragement can come from anywhere at any time.

I know that this article is being read by the one person who needs encouragement at this particular time. Most people may not believe it, but this is an appointment from God. He wants to give you the strength in your deepest time. He wants to encourage you for your next step.

Get news updates FRANK ROBINSON

The Cheswald, DE Fire Company now operates this 1999 Spartan/LTI 93' Tower Ladder. The unit formally saw service with the Lynbrook, NY (Nassau County) Fire Department.

everyday online! www.1rbn.com

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Nov/Dec, 2018

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

DELAWARE

Eight-Alarm Blaze Destroys Iconic Willey Farms Market in Townsend Townsend, DE - On Monday, November 5th, Townsend Delaware firefighters were alerted for an early morning structure fire in the 4000 block of Dupont Parkway. New Castle County 911 received a call reporting flames showing from the Willey Farms building at 4092 Dupont Parkway at 2:19 A.M. Townsend Fire Co. Station 26 was quickly alerted to the blaze along with crews from Volunteer Hose Co. 27, Citizens Hose Co. 44, and Clayton Fire Co. 45.

Townsend Assistant Chief 268B, Raymond Clark, arrived shortly after dispatch to find heavy fire conditions and reported fire showing.

Chief Clark established Townsend Command and began conducting his scene size-up as units arrived and set up to begin their fire attack.

Command found multiple hazards and quickly decided on a defensive plan of attack, advised dispatch and requested a Tanker Task Force started along with the second and third alarm assignments.

Firefighters were faced with a large 125,000-square-foot commercial complex made up of the main structure with multiple adjoining buildings used for storage and greenhouses. Firefighters worked vigorously with multiple hose lines and set up for ladder pipe operations as incoming units worked to establish a good water supply for operations. Crews battled the blaze for nearly five hours before bringing it under control around 7:17 A.M. Firefighters remained committed on the scene for several more hours conducting overhaul operations and assisting State Fire Marshals.

The devastating blaze went to eight alarms which included three Tanker Task Force assignments, bringing in units from 12 different counties across the four-state area.

Firefighters faced multiple challenges battling the early morning blaze, including downed power lines, rural water supply operations, which called for multiple water tankers to respond, and combustible materials like propane tanks that were stored inside the building which helped fuel the fire. These challenges along with the threat of structural collapse forced firefighters to remain in a defensive mode battling the blaze from the exterior throughout the incident.

The entire Willey Farms complex was a total loss. Willey Farms dates to 1975 and is a popular landmark in the area, known for giving back to the community. The family that owns the farmers market praised firefighters for their efforts to save the store that morning and announced they have every intent of rebuilding.

The cause of the blaze is not yet known and is currently under investigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office. Delaware State Fire Marshals are currently receiving assistance from the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives due to the magni-

JUMP TO FILE #112718120 tude of the incident. There were no reported civilian injuries during the incident, but two firefighters were transported from the scene by EMS and were last reported to be in stable condition.

The fast-moving blaze took well over 150 firefighters to bring the blaze under control. New Castle County 911 advised that the eightalarm blaze consisted of New Castle County Delaware crews from Townsend Fire Co.26, Volunteer Hose Co.27 & 1, Odessa Fire Co.4 & 24, Delaware City Fire Co.15, Port Penn Fire Co.29, Christiana Fire Co.12, Wilmington Manor Fire Co.28, Hockessin Fire Co.19, Elsmere Fire Co.16, Minquas Fire Co.23, Claymont Fire Co.13, Aetna Hose Hook & Ladder Co.9, Goodwill Fire Co.18, Cranston Heights Fire Co.14, Holloway Terrace Fire Co.20, New Castle County Paramedics, Saint Francis Basic Life Support & Rehab Unit PA200, New Castle Public Safety, and the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office.

New Castle County 911 also showed that they received out-ofcounty mutual aid from Kent County Delaware crews from Bowers Fire Co.40, Camden-Wyoming Fire Co.41, Cheswold Fire Co.43, Citizens Hose Co.44, Clayton Fire Co.45, Dover Fire Co.46, Felton Community Fire Co.48, Frederica Fire Co.49, Hartly V.F.C. Co.51, Leipsic V.F.C. Co.53, Little Creek V.F.C. Co.54, Magnolia V.F.C. Co.55, South Bowers Fire Co.57, Smyma American Legion Ambulance Co.64, and Kent County Department of Public Safety; Sussex County Delaware crews responded from Ellendale Fire Co. Station 75, Memorial V.F.C. Co.89, Greenwood Fire Co.78; Cecil County Maryland crews from Cecilton, Chesapeake City, Singerly; Kent County Maryland crews from Galena V.F.C. Co.3, Millington Community V.F.C. Co.2; Queen Anne County Maryland crews from Sudlersville V.F.C. Station 6; Caroline County Maryland crews from Greensboro V.F.C. Station 600, Golsboro V.F.C. Station 700; Chester County Pennsylvania crews from West Grove Fire Co.22, Avondale Fire Co. 23, Kennett Fire Co.24, Cochranville Fire Co.27, and First West Chester Fire Co.51.

Delaware County Pennsylvania crews responded from Aston Twp. FD Station 17, Bethel Twp. Hose Co.#1 Station 66; Camden County New Jersey crews from Mount Ephraim FD Co.45; Salem County New Jersey crews from Deep Water Fire Co. Station 7, Carney’s Point Fire & Rescue Station 11; and Gloucester County New Jersey crews from East Greenwich Twp. Fire & Rescue Co.19.

-WILLIAM KING

DOVER FD

DOVER FD

Firefighters use ladder pipe operations to bring the Willey Farms blaze under control.

DOVER FD

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Nov/Dec, 2018

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VIRGINIA

Chesterfield Family Escapes Fast-Moving Blaze, Home Destroyed Chesterfield, VA - Four residents and two dogs escaped a dangerous fire in the 15000 block of Fox Branch Lane in Chesterfield on November 26th.

Tones sounded at 9:16 A.M., dispatching Engines 7, 16 and 24, along with Truck 7, Medic 2, Battalions 4 and 3, and the Tactical Safety Officer. A working incident declaration then added Engines 5 and 15, as well as Air Utility.

The first arriving units on scene reported heavy fire conditions from the garage and roof of a two-story, single-family dwelling. “The occupants had self-evacuated,” said Lieutenant Jason Elmore of Chesterfield Fire and EMS. The fire fight started exterior

JUMP TO FILE #112618124 and then moved to interior. Truck 7 pummeled the fire with its master stream. Elmore said the fire was marked under control after about 45 minutes.

According to fire officials, the fire started in the garage and caused extensive damage to the house and two vehicles. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The displaced residents, including two adults, two children and two dogs, are being assisted by family.

- BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT

COURTESY OF CHESTERFIELD FIRE AND EMS

COURTESY OF CHESTERFIELD FIRE AND EMS

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877-541-HERO COURTESY OF CHESTERFIELD FIRE AND EMS

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Nov/Dec, 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

Georgia: Barry Everett, 42 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: August 8, 2018 Death Date: August 8, 2018 Fire Department: DeKalb County Fire Rescue Initial Summary: Firefighter Barry Everett worked a 24-shift and responded to multiple emergencies, the last emergency being at 0000hrs. During shift change, at 0800hrs, Everett was found deceased in bed at the fire station. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported.

California: Andrew Brake, 40 Rank: Heavy Equipment Mechanic Incident Date: August 9, 2018 Death Date: August 9, 2018 Fire Department: CAL FIRE Initial Summary: On Aug. 9, 2018, at 12:19 a.m., Heavy Equipment Mechanic Andrew Brake was driving northbound on Highway 99 when his CAL FIRE support vehicle left the road, hit a tree and burst into flames. He was the only person in the vehicle. The collision happened near Los Molinos in Tehama County. Brake was assigned to the Carr Fire, burning in Shasta and Trinity counties.

Oklahoma: Madison Lee Clinton, Jr., 54 Rank: Assistant Chief Incident Date: August 10, 2018 Death Date: August 10, 2018 Fire Department: Friendship Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Assistant Chief Clinton was engaged in fire suppression activities at a residential structure fire. During the operation, the structure collapsed and pinned him under the roof. Clinton died at the scene.

North Carolina: Jeff Holden, 32 Rank: Assistant Chief Incident Date: August 13, 2018 Death Date: August 13, 2018

Fire Department: Orange Rural Fire Department Initial Summary: On Aug. 13, 2018 at 11:09 a.m., Assistant Chief Holden responded to a rescue call for a trapped person that required him to enter a trench on West Ten Road in Efland, North Carolina.

At 2:50 p.m., while still working his shift, Holden was found unresponsive at the fire station. All attempts to revive him by the crew on shift and additional emergency workers were unsuccessful. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported.

Utah: Matthew Burchett, 42 Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date: August 13, 2018 Death Date: August 13, 2018 Fire Department: Draper City Fire Department Initial Summary: Battalion Chief Burchett was injured while on the fire line of the Ranch Fire, a part of the Mendocino Complex Fire north of San Francisco, California. Burchett was airlifted to a local hospital where he passed away from the injuries he sustained. The nature and cause of the fatal injury are still to be reported. Burchett was one of five firefighters sent from the Draper City Fire Department in Utah to help fight the California wildland fires through a mutual aid agreement with CAL FIRE. Pennsylvania: Michael Reese, 53 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: August 23, 2018 Death Date: August 23, 2018 Fire Department: Willow Street Fire Company Initial Summary: Fire Chief Michael Reese responded to a vehicle accident during the early morning hours on 08/23/18. Several hours later that day, Reese suddenly passed away at his home. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

PAGE 7

VIRGINIA

MEMORIAL BOARD If you have photos you would like to see in our Memorial Board feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Chesterfield, VA - Dedicated fire service leader, David Creasy, passed away on October 15, 2018 after a valiant four year battle against cancer.

Half a century of dedicated service to the public and fire service peers, with a plethora of contributions including teaching firefighter cancer on the job risks and safety awareness, untiring efforts to leave a record of fire service history by establishing a fire museum and contributing to Chesterfield Fire and EMS Memorial Wall that honors the fallen first responders of the county, and authoring a book, are only part of David Creasy’s legacy that will be remembered not only by his family, friends and fire service family, but for generations to come that are touched by his work.

Creasy joined the fire service in 1968 as a volunteer with the Manchester Vol. FD. In 1971, he went to work for the Richmond Bureau of Fire and was assigned to Truck Co. #3. On his days off he served as volunteer for the fire service. He left Richmond in 1974 for a career position with the Chesterfield FD. During his 28 year career with Chesterfield Fire and EMS, he worked in nearly every aspect of the department, including the Emergency Operations Division, Communications, Fire Training and Fire Prevention Bureau, before retiring in 2001 as a senior battalion chief/fire marshal.

David returned to work with the Richmond FD in 2008 as the city’s fire marshal.

After retirement, he continued working part-time for Chesterfield FD as an instructor. He also worked as an instructor in the Community College System and with the Virginia Fire Marshal

Academy.

Creasy had a vision of saving and documenting fire service history that he believed was invaluable, not only for memory sake but to share fire department heritage with the new Chesterfield Fire and EMS generation filling the ranks. The fruit of his efforts was “Chesterfield Fire Department-The Original Thirteen Departments”, authored by Creasy and the establishment of the Chesterfield Fire Museum.

Of his book Creasy said, "I love talking with the old timers, finding pictures and information that documents the Chesterfield Fire Department history. I grew up in this department and it gave me a wonderful career. It is a tremendous family; always there in good times and bad. If you need something they are there for you.”

"So much of the history of the volunteer fire departments is gone," Creasy explained in an earlier interview. "Many of the people have moved away or passed on, pictures and records have been thrown away and as mentioned before, there is no one central point that acts as a repository for the fire department history information. On top of this, we have a generation of firefighters that have no idea what it was like back in the day and have no link to the past."

The book took about 4-5 years to pull everything together. Creasy researched newspapers, Board of Supervisors meeting minutes, fire department records, and had visits and talks with some of the old timers. The work with the book publisher then took about 14 months.

Creasy was also gathering and accepting donations of fire department historic memorabilia.

“Having watched the Chesterfield Fire Department grow from 13 individual departments to one outstanding and nationally recognized department was a wonderful experience for me,” Creasy said in an earlier interview. “I think as with a lot of things, people are interested in how it all happened. Several years ago I started to collect memorabilia and organized an exhibit in the County museum.”

HENRICO FIRE

Linda Pond used pictures she had and some out of Creasy’s book to chronicle her husband's career in the Ettrick Vol. Fire Dept. George Pond's relatives were founding members and he rose to the rank of Vol. District Chief.

Resident Displaced After House Fire in Henrico

Creasy was a member of Manchester Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Acca Temple. He was active with the Acca mini patrol.

- HENRICO FIRE

After being diagnosed with cancer, Creasy began an educational campaign for firefighters about the on-the-job risks. Even while undergoing treatments and experiencing sickness and side effects from his cancer and treatments, the dedicated seasoned fire service leader placed others above himself and spread awareness to help save lives.

Henrico County, VA – Henrico firefighters responded to the 9700 block of Willow Glen Lane just before 1:30 P.M. on October 3rd, where a good Samaritan passing by noticed fire coming from a home and alerted the occupant to evacuate while a neighbor was calling 911.

Firefighters soon arrived to find heavy fire shooting from the attic of the home. Crews extinguished the fire, which was so hot that it completely burned away a large portion of the roof and melted the siding on a neighbor’s home. No citizens were injured

JUMP TO FILE #100418105 during the blaze, but one firefighter had to be treated and transported to an area hospital for heat exhaustion like symptoms. The injuries were minor and a quick recovery was expected.

The Henrico Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire. One resident has been displaced and is being assisted by the Red Cross.

Creasy said of his work, “I feel like writing this book not only allows me to enlighten folks, but allows me to feel like I am giving something back by keeping the history of hundreds of firefighters alive.”

Creasy, whose life defined service, spent his whole life giving back, not just for present day, but to the future generations.

Creasy passed away on 10/15/18 after a valiant four year battle against cancer.

BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT HENRICO FIRE

PAGE 8

Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

VIRGINIA

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.

COURTESY OF VIRGINIA STATE POLICE

Virginia State Police officials said that on October 11th at approximately 9:00 P.M., Hanover County Fire & EMS personnel were stopped at a crash scene on I-295 when a southbound tractor-trailer rearended the fire engine and struck four firefighters, killing one.

JOHN CARPENTER

The company patch of Cheriton Vol. Fire Department, located on the Eastern Shore of Northampton County, VA.

HENRICO FIRE

Fire Damages Restaurant in Henrico’s East End

Henrico County, VA – Just after 6:30 A.M. on November 19th, the Henrico 911 center received calls for smoke coming from the roof of a restaurant near the corner of Cedar Fork and Nine Mile Road. Firefighters soon arrived to find thick black smoke coming from the restaurant and quickly entered to extinguish the blaze and make sure there was no one still inside. The fire was extinguished, confining it to the kitchen area and ventilation system, and there was no one trapped.

No injuries were reported. The Henrico Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Fire Lieutenant Dies, Tractor-Trailer Driver Who Struck Hanover Fire Engine Charged Hanover, VA - Lester Labarge, 49, of California, Maryland, has been charged with reckless driving and was cited for defective brakes when the tractortrailer he was driving rear-ended a Hanover County fire engine that was operating at a crash scene on I-295, October 11th.

JUMP TO FILE# Virginia State 101218120 Police officials said that at approximately 9:00 P.M., Hanover County Fire & EMS had stopped on I-295 to render aid to those involved in a two-vehicle crash. The fire engine had its emergency lights activated while stopped in the far left lane and shoulder. A southbound tractortrailer rear-ended the fire engine and struck four firefighters who were outside the fire engine.

One of the firefighters, Lt. Brad Clark, 43, of Mechanicsville, Virginia, died at the scene. Two other firefighters were transported to VCU Medical Center for treatment of life-threatening injuries. A fourth firefighter suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Hanover Fire and EMS reported on October 12th that the conditions of the injured firefighters at VCU Health Systems were as follows: Firefighter/Medic #1 - stable condition; Firefighter/Medic #2 - Se-

Lt. Brad Clark

rious, but stable condition.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled the death of a Hanover County firefighter as related to Tropical Storm Michael.

COURTESY OF HANOVER FIRE AND EMS

The crash remains under investigation and additional charges are pending.

- BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

VIRGINIA

Trailer Fire Displaces Four, Two Pets Perish in Chesterfield Chesterfield, VA - Four occupants in the Bermuda Estates Trailer Park located in the 12300 block of Jefferson Davis Hwy. were displaced, and two pets perished JUMP TO FILE# after a fire broke out 112418113 in a trailer on November 24th.

Tones sounded around 1:21 P.M., dispatching Engines 14, 1 and 17, Truck 14, Medic 1, Battalions 2 and 1, and the Tactical Safety Officer to the scene. Added to the call were Engines 18 and 15, and Air Utility.

Lt. Jason Elmore of Chesterfield Fire and EMS said there were no working smoke alarms in the trailer.

A dog and cat did not survive the fire.

The Red Cross is assisting the displaced occupants and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

- BECKY ROBINETTE WRIGHT

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Fire Damages Henrico Apartment Complex Storage Building Henrico County, VA – Henrico firefighters were on the scene of a garage fire on September 24th in an apartment complex in the 7600 block of Fernwood Street in Henrico’s west end. The fire was reported by maintenance staff and quickly knocked down by firefighters on arrival.

The building JUMP TO FILE# contained a variety 092518103 of pool chemicals so firefighters that operated within the building took special care to decontaminate themselves at the scene, but there was no risk to the public at all. The Henrico Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire, and there were no injuries to citizens or firefighters reported.

- HENRICO FIRE

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HENRICO FIRE

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Nov/Dec, 2018

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES

MARYLAND

INK INK

1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

The driver was trapped and seriously injured and the passenger was ejected and killed in this MVC.

MVC With Ejection and Fatality in Pikesville

New Marlborough, Massachusetts Fire & Rescue Firefighter Brittney Lane designed this beautiful tattoo herself, displaying a dreamcatcher featuring a Maltese cross with her number.

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

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

DID YOU K NOW

Pikesville, MD - Just after 8:00 P.M. on Monday, October 29th, an engine from Baltimore County Fire Department, along with Medic 2 and EMS 5, were alerted to respond to a motor vehicle crash on Milford Mill Road in the area of Baltimore County Police Department Precinct 4, with one person reported ejected from the vehicle.

Upon arrival, responding units found a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with heavy damage in the middle of

JUMP TO FILE #103018139 the road, one person laying in the roadway, and the driver trapped.

Pikesville VFC Squad 322 and Tower 323 were added to the assignment as Rescue Box 2-20 was dispatched.

The ejected victim was pronounced deceased on the scene.

PVFC firefighters extricated the

driver, who was transported to an area hospital by Medic 2 with serious injuries.

An initial BCoPD investigation showed that the Tacoma pickup was traveling eastbound on Milford Mill Road when it left the roadway and struck a street light support pole.

During the crash, the passenger of the truck was ejected.

- MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG

VEHICLE NEWS

?

The Black Dragon Fire of 1987, the largest wildfire in modern times, burned some 20 million acres across China and the Soviet Union, an area about the size of South Carolina.

FRANK ROBINSON

The Huntingtown, MD Vol. Fire Department now runs this 2018 Pierce Arrow XT Heavy Rescue.

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

PAGE 13

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

Lutherville Home Destroyed After Two Fires Strike Within 14 Hours of Each Other Lutherville, MD - Just before 2:00 P.M. on Thanksgiving Day, November 22nd, Baltimore County 911 received a call for the report of a dwelling fire in the 10700 block of Greenspring Avenue. Units arrived with smoke showing from the chimJUMP TO FILE# ney and attic area of 112518107 a large 12,000square-foot, singlefamily dwelling.

As an interior attack commenced, Command requested a working fire dispatch and a tanker strike team to respond due to no hydrants in the area. The fire was knocked down a short time later and contained to the area of origin. Units remained on scene for approximately four hours performing overhaul.

At 3:30 A.M. on November 23rd, Engine 14 was dispatched back to the location to investigate the report of a fire in a different part of the house. Engine 14 arrived to find the dwelling now well-involved and immediately requested a full box assignment, as well as a tanker strike team and working fire dispatch. A secondalarm followed shortly after, along with a request for two additional large capacity tankers.

Battalion Chief 23 (Kemp) assumed command and ordered a full evac of the building to set up for exterior operations, placing ladder pipes in service to knock down the fire, as well as setting up operations to protect nearby exposures and wooded area.

As conditions continued to deteriorate, Chief Kemp requested a third-alarm to be dispatched to begin the operation of rotating crews. A serious water supply issue occurred when the engine pumping the ladder pipes and handlines suffered a mechanical failure, forcing the water supply to be rerouted to another engine. As numerous interior and exterior collapses occurred, collapse zones were set up around the dwelling.

The heaviest volume of fire was knocked down at approximately 6:00 A.M. Due to the significant collapse of the dwelling, an excavator was brought in to remove debris so that firefighters could completely extinguish the fire. The operation was scaled down, however, units remained on scene until late that evening to extinguish all remaining hot spots.

The dwelling was a total loss.

No injuries were reported, and the cause of both fires remains under investigation.

- CHARLIE LEWIS

CHARLIE LEWIS

The scene firefighters encountered when they responded to this home, which was the site of a previous working fire just 14 hours earlier.

The scene 12 hours after the start of the second fire. Heavy equipment is used to sift through the collapsed debris so that any remaining fire can be extinguished.

CHARLIE LEWIS

Nov/Dec, 2018

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.

PAGE 15

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The staff of 1st Responder Newspaper would like to extend to our valued readers and advertisers our warmest wishes for a safe & happy holiday season.

May 16 - 19, 2019 Portland, Maine

PAGE 16

Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

MIDDLETOWN VOL. FIRE CO.

Middletown Chief 7, Brent Harne, arrived to find a fully involved barn with partial collapse.

Blaze Destroys Barn North of Burkittsville Burkittsville, MD - On the morning of September 27th, firefighters were alerted on Box 7-8 for a barn fire on Burkittsville Road, south of Middletown. Frederick County 911 received a call reporting the blaze just after 1:30 A.M. The Middletown Vol. Fire Co. was dispatched out with JUMP TO FILE# several other Fred- 101718106 erick County departments due on the box at 1:35 A.M. Within minutes of dispatch, Middletown Engine 72 was on the street responding when they advised Frederick County dispatch that they were approaching the scene with heavy fire showing and requested the Tanker Task Force started on the box.

Middletown Engine 72 arrived to find a 40’x100’ barn fully involved with partial collapse.

Middletown Chief 7, Brent Harne, arrived and established Burkittsville Rd. Command on side 'Alpha' as firefighters began pulling attack lines to commence their fire attack. Upon arrival, Jefferson Fire Chief 20 was assigned to supervise fire attack operations while Brunswick Fire Chief 5-1 handled water supply operations.

Firefighters used multiple attack lines, a blitz-fire nozzle, and wagon pipe operations to battle the early morning blaze. Crews had to conduct rural-water-operations, calling for multiple tankers to respond from surrounding jurisdictions. Firefighters initially worked with a tanker shuttle operation until Myersville Engine 82 was able to establish a draft site at a nearby creek while Middletown Rescue Engine 74 dropped a supply line from the draft site to the incident scene to establish a good water supply.

Crews battled the blaze for

nearly one hour before gaining significant control. Command reported a bulk of the fire knocked and began releasing most of the tankers around 2:47 A.M. Firefighters remained committed for several hours conducting overhaul operations and assisting fire investigators that were on the scene.

The cause of the blaze that destroyed the barn at 6776 Burkittsville Rd. is not currently known and is under investigation by the Frederick County Fire Marshal’s Office. Command was able to confirm that the barn was used as a gym and living quarters, and did not house any farm equipment or livestock.

No injuries were reported during the incident. Fire crews were able to clear the scene later that morning, but did respond back several times throughout the day to assist the Fire Marshal’s Office with extinguishing hot spots that would periodically flare back up.

Middletown VFC Co.7 responded with other Frederick County units from Braddock Heights VFC Co.12, Jefferson Vol. Fire & Rescue Co.20, Myersville VFC Co.8, Brunswick VFC Co.5, Independent Hose Co.1, United Fire Engine Co.3, Wolfsville VFC Co.21, Walkersville VFC Co.11, Frederick County Fire & Rescue Battalion 902, and Frederick Fire & Rescue Safety 900.

Middletown received out-ofcounty mutual aid on the scene from Washington County units from Rohrersville Co.8, Boonsboro Fire Co.6, Washington County Rehab Unit 255, and Loudon County’s Lovettsville VFR Co.12. Additional assistance was received in the way of transfer while crews were committed on the call from Frederick County’s Carroll Manor VFC Co.14, Libertytown VFD Co.17, Urbana VFC Co.23, and Washington County Maryland’s Leitersburg VFC Co.9.

- WILLIAM KING

Crews work to remove the tree embedded in the vehicle and free the trapped passenger.

CHARLIE LEWIS

Man Trapped and Seriously Injured After Car Strikes Tree in Baltimore City Baltimore, MD - At approximately 10:30 P.M. on November, 3rd, Baltimore City Communications dispatched Rescue Alarm 5670 for the report of a motor vehicle accident with persons trapped in the 3000 block of E. Northern Pkwy., in northeast Baltimore City.

Engine 56 arrived to find a vehicle that had struck a tree, which had become embedded in the vehicle, trapping the passenger. Battalion Chief 4 arrived a short time later and assumed command, declaring

JUMP TO FILE #110418117 the incident a working rescue.

Crews from Engine 56, Squad 54, Truck 30 and Rescue 1 worked to remove the tree from the vehicle and free the heavily entrapped passenger, who was extricated after 40 minutes. The driver and the passenger were both transported to the hospital. The passenger, who suffered severe leg trauma with open

fractures, was taken to a trauma center.

The vehicle was reported to have been traveling eastbound on E. Northern Pkwy. at a high rate of speed when it entered the median, striking and embedding the tree.

The vehicle then drove into the westbound lanes of the road where it continued for another 50-yards before coming to a stop, leaving a wide debris field in its wake.

- CHARLIE LEWIS

CHARLIE LEWIS

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

PAGE 17

MARYLAND

Fire & Rescue Personnel Mourn the Loss of Washington County President, Dale Hill Washington County, MD - On the morning of October 8th, fire trucks from all over Washington County lined East Wilson Boulevard in Hagerstown’s south end, a sight you only see when firefighters are battling a two- JUMP TO FILE# alarm blaze, but on 101218110 this morning there was no smoke or flames to be seen.

Instead, there were over 100 grieving firefighters mourning the loss of one of their own. Firefighters, Paramedics, Police Officers, and several government dignitaries gathered at the Life House Church that morning to pay tribute to one of Washington County’s true icons in the Fire & Rescue service, Dale Lewis Hill.

Serving as Washington County's Volunteer Fire & Rescue President, Dale passed away on September 28th and was laid to rest on Monday, October 8th, surrounded by family, friends and fellow first responders. Dale served the citizens of Washington County for over 40 years. He was devoted to helping others within the community, serving as an active firefighter with the Funkstown Vol. Fire Co., where he eventually moved up through the ranks and served as the company’s president before becoming the president of the Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association.

Dale served in so many ways with different organizations during his career in Public Safety, including volunteering with the Independent Juniors Fire Co. in Hagerstown, and later becoming a career firefighter with the Hagerstown FD. Dale’s career path continued to flourish when he was accepted to the Howard County PD where he served as a police officer, later becoming a Fire Investigator with the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Dale also concentrated on sharing his knowledge with new recruits and became a Maryland Fire & Rescue (MFRI) Instructor.

No matter where his career took him, Dale stayed true to the Funkstown Vol. Fire Co. and the volunteer fire service that he loved so much.

Friends spoke about him during the service and remembered how Dale approached everything head-on and always gave more than 100% when he went after something. Chaplain Richard Bowers with the Maryland State Fireman’s Association and Chaplain for the Washington County Vol. Fire & Rescue Association, compared Dale to a Jack Russell during the service. He told everyone that Dale was a kind and gentle soul, but when you got him riled up he wouldn’t care how big the contender or how big the issue was, that he would fight for what he believed; especially when it came to the volunteer fire service; this made him a fierce advocate which got him a respected reputation that was well known.

At the time of Dale’s untimely death, he remained extremely active, serving as the President of the Washington County Vol. Fire & Rescue Association, as well as being appointed Chairman of Legislative Committee for the Maryland State Fireman’s Association.

Those two positions kept Dale busy, going from meeting to meeting, but you never heard him complain about it.

Chief Oley Griffith from the Boonsboro FD spoke highly of Dale at the service. He shared with everyone how he was on the phone with Dale talking about how they could better the fire service when we lost him. He spoke of how Dale lived, breathed, and slept the Fire Service up until the very end.

Dale took his final ride on Funkstown Vol. Fire Co.’s retired Engine 102 in a procession that stretched over a mile long, escort-

ing him past his firehouse in Funkstown where firefighters covering for Funkstown stood at attention as the house siren sounded while the procession passed by.

The procession continued on, passing the Independent Juniors and Community Rescue Service stations on Eastern Blvd., where onduty firefighters and paramedics had their apparatus pulled out on the apron while they stood at attention in respect of Dale.

The procession came to an end as they passed by the Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association Office on Pennsylvania Ave., arriving at Rest Haven Cemetery located behind the office Dale spent so much time working at for the betterment of the volunteers in Washington County. Upon Dale’s arrival at Rest Haven, firefighters gathered with his family and friends as Reverend Dan Fraley conducted the grave side service.

Services included the firefighter tradition involving the playing of the Bag Pipe rendition of “Amazing Grace” from a group of firefighters from Montgomery County Firefighters Pipes and Drums, a group from the Baltimore Fire Brigade, officers from Howard County Police, and MacMillan Pipes and Drums. The service also included the tradition of sounding “Two Taps” of the bell, which in the fire service signifies that the alarm they were on had ended and units had returned to quarters; in this case it was to signify that Dale had returned home.

Dale was an all-around people person who was easy to work with and loved by many. If he didn’t agree with how something was done, he wouldn’t just complain about it, he would work to come up with options around the problem, which made him a great leader. Dale seemed to always be running from one event or meeting to another, but still was just as dedicated to his family, making time for them whenever he could.

A leader, a father, and a good friend; the loss of Dale has left a large hole in the hearts of so many people, as well as a hole in the Washington County Fire Service.

A good man, a great mentor, and a true advocate has been lost, leaving behind some large shoes to fill.

Our prayers go out to his son Johnathon Michael Hill, and daughter Stacie Marie and her husband Devin Jacob on their loss, as well as Dale’s friends and fellow firefighters.

- WILLIAM KING

WCVFRA-PT: JAMIE SPRECHER-BARKDOLL

FF Dale Hill of the Funkstown Vol. Fire Co., who served as the President of the Washington County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, was laid to rest on Monday, October 8th, surrounded by family, friends and over 100 mourning First Responders.

WCVFRA-PT: NATASHA GEARHART

Firefighters from Funkstown Fire Co. escort President Hill to his final resting place at Rest Haven.

WASHINGTON COUNTY PUBLIC RELATIONS: KATIE YODER

PAGE 18

Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

From Horses to Horsepower ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

From Horses to Horsepower

By Jack Wright Available from: The Fireman’s Hall Store 215-923-1438 W e b s i t e : Firemanshallstore.com Price $45.00 + Shipping This book is hard cover, 8 ¾ inch by 11 1/4 inch and has 272 pages of both black and white and color photos. The author is the Philadelphia Fire Department Historian and he has put together extensive, magnificent work!

I've had the privilege and honor to contribute in a small way to the making of this book. In 1979, before I knew the author, I had an interest in Philadelphia fire apparatus and wrote to the fire commissioner for permission to photograph their apparatus for a historical collection for myself.

I received the permission and spent the entire year photographing their apparatus, resulting in getting all but four of them, which included both active and spare apparatus except for ambulances and chief cars.

I completed my mission the following year. It was the year that they took delivery of 32

American LaFrance pumpers, so in essence, 1979 was the best year for photos since they had many different makes and models or rolling stock. The author, after meeting me, asked for copies of the trucks which I gladly provided, and many are in this book! It filled many of the gaps in his collection.

Be that as it may, he has compiled nine chapters of history of PFD apparatus which includes every make and model the department ever owned, detailed down to the number of each that had been ordered. Philadelphia through the years has had many interesting units. For many years they purchased pumpers with commercial chassis, mostly with International tilt cab, which was different for a large city. Nevertheless, that is what makes an apparatus buff’s hobby so interesting…to photograph rare makes, models and combinations. You the reader will share all of these as you thumb through this history!

The airport crash trucks are of particular interest because they are purchased by the Department of Commerce and operated by Philadelphia firefighters. A couple of unique apparatus are the Calavar 125-foot Firebird operated

by Ladder 2, and a Fire Halftrack that was originally quartered at Engine 62 and Ladder 34, and later at Engine 69 which is near the international airport.

In my many years of reviewing books, this one is one of my favorites. If you purchased it, you will be glad you did!

DID Y OU K NOW

?

Firefighters worked to keep the gas-fed fire contained as crews from Baltimore Gas & Electric work to find and shut off the main.

CHARLIE LEWIS

Seven Baltimore Firefighters Hurt in Explosion During Two-Alarm Apartment Fire Baltimore, MD - Just after 3:00 P.M. on October 17th, Baltimore firefighters were dispatched to Box Alarm 27-1 in the 4400 block of Bowleys Lane for the report of a building fire. Units arrived and reported smoke showing from the third floor of a threestory garden style apartment building, with people jumping from the windows. A working fire dispatch was requested and then a second-alarm shortly thereafter.

An explosion occurred during an interior attack that injured seven firefighters, sending two of them into the basement. A MAYDAY was sounded and Hazmat

JUMP TO FILE #101918100 and multiple EMS units were requested. An uncontrolled gas leak continued to fuel the fire and an emergency response team from the Baltimore Gas & Electric Company was brought in.

Firefighters continued to battle the fire from the exterior while gas crews worked to locate and shut off the main. The gas was shut down and the fire was placed under control at 12:55 A.M. Crews remained on the scene until approximately 3:00 A.M. performing overhaul.

Six firefighters were transported to the burn unit at Bayview Hospital, and one was transported to the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Hospital. Three civilians were also transported, one in critical condition.

The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time. Units from the Baltimore County Fire Dept., Office of Emergency Management and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms assisted on this incident.

- CHARLIE LEWIS

Spontaneous combustion is real. Some fuel sources can generate their own heat—by rotting, for instance.

Pistachios have so much natural oil and are so prone to heat-generating fat decomposition that the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code regards them as dangerous.

The rear of the building shows heavy damage from the explosion.

CHARLIE LEWIS

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 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.

Bob Long

PAGE 20

Nov/Dec, 2018

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.

CHUCK LOWE

Joppa-Magnolia operated this 2010 Pierce Arrow XT 100' Aerial.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

PAGE 21

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

DRILLS/TRAINING If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

On November 11th, members from the Reisterstown Volunteer Fire Company (#41), the Franklin Fire Station (#56), and the Rockdale Towing Company came together to practice stabilization and extrication techniques on vehicles using scenarios such as a school bus and ambulance overturned into each other, and an RV vehicle on top of a car. The drill was held on the property of Peter’s Body Shop.

Box 234 Association was also on hand to help provide food and beverages to the crews.

CHARLIE LEWIS

CHARLIE LEWIS

CHARLIE LEWIS

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

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Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

MARYLAND

No Injuries in Two-Car Crash Near Pikesville Beltway Pikesville, MD - Just after 10:00 A.M. on Sunday, October 28th, Pikesville VFC Engine 321 and Tower 323, along with Baltimore County FD Medic 2, were alerted for a motor vehicle crash reported on the inner loop of the Beltway, between Reisterstown Rd. and Park Heights JUMP TO FILE# Ave. 102818102 Medic 2 was first to arrive and reported a two-vehicle crash involving a Chevy SUV and Honda passenger car, with both vehicles off the roadway just prior to Exit 21. Firefighters and EMS personnel assessed the occupants of both vehicles, all of whom declined medical attention.

Also responding to the scene was a Baltimore County Police Dept. 4th Precinct unit, a Trooper from the Maryland State Police Golden Ring barrack, and the State Highway Administration CHART unit.

- MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG

Pikesville VFC firefighters and BCoFD Medic 2 EMS personnel at the scene of the Beltway crash.

MICHAEL SCHWARTZBERG/PVFC

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Nov/Dec, 2018

PAGE 25

WEST VIRGINIA

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.

View from Washington St., looking at passenger side of vehicle.

ZACH SIPE

Extrication Conducted at Berkeley Springs MVA, One Transported to Trauma Center

This patch belongs to District of Columbia Fire Department Ladder 17, located in George Washington County, Washington D.C. EUGENE WEBER JR.

DC FIRE AND EMS

Fast-Moving Blaze Displaces Logan Circle Residents

Washington, DC - Six residents were displaced, but nobody was injured after fire erupted in the basement of a Logan Circle neighborhood building on Sunday, November 25th. A Box Alarm was dispatched shortly after 1:30 P.M. for 1410 11th Street NW. First arriving units found fire showing on the alley side of a three-story end row structure that contained several apartments. A Working Fire dispatch was immediately requested. Firefighters mounted an interior attack on the flames, containing them with only minor extension to the first floor. All occupants safely escaped, and firefighters were able to locate and remove a cat that was found still inside. Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of the blaze.

Berkeley Springs, WV - At approximately 2:59 A.M. on Wednesday, September 12th, Berkeley Springs Vol. Fire Co. and Morgan County EMS were alerted for a motor vehicle crash in the 200 block of South Washington Street in downtown Berkeley Springs, JUMP TO FILE# about 3/10 of a mile 091618100 from Berkeley Springs' firehouse.

Sgt. 1 and Medic 7-6 responded to the scene at 3:01 A.M. Sgt. 1 arrived on scene at 3:03 A.M. and found one vehicle that had struck two trees before going airborne and striking the southern most embankment of Warm Springs Run. The vehicle subsequently rolled over at least one complete time before landing upright, trapping the driver of the vehicle.

As Sgt. 1 reported findings, EMS was arriving on the scene and Sgt. 1 proceeded to the station for the rescue squad. While en route to the station, Sgt. 1 requested the next due engine company and rescue squad, bringing in Great Cacapon VFC Engine 21 and Hancock, MD Rescue Squad 59.

Rescue Squad 1 arrived on scene within one minute and Sgt. 1 established South Washington Command. The crew from RS1 stabilized the vehicle and was beginning extrication at 3:08 A.M. when Command requested an additional engine company for manpower due to the possibility of an extended extrication time.

Squad 1's crew removed the driver's side rear door, as the driver's door was ripped off during impact. Washington County Rescue Squad 59, Great Cacapon Engine 21, and Washington County

View from driver's side looking towards engine compartment.

ZACH SIPE

Engine 5-1 all arrived within the course of the next 10 minutes as crews continued to extricate.

Crews removed the patient and packaged them for transport. Morgan County EMS transported the patient as Priority 1 to Winchester Medical Center as aviation was requested, but subsequently denied due to weather. The current condition of the patient is unknown. The Berkeley Springs Police Dept. is investigating the accident.

Units operating on the scene were Berkeley Springs VFC Rescue Squad 1, Berkeley Springs VFC Car 1, Hancock MD Rescue Squad 59, Great Cacapon VFC Engine 21, Hancock MD VFC Engine 5-1, Morgan County EMS Medic 76, Morgan County EMS Medic 77, Morgan County EMS Medic 7-12, and Berkeley Springs Police Dept.

- ZACHARY SIPE

PAGE 26

Nov/Dec, 2018

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

JOHN LOYER

Three-Alarm Fire Ravages Wooden DC Apartment Complex for Seniors Washington, DC – A devastating three-alarm fire ravaged a senior affordable housing complex in southeast DC on Wednesday, September 19th, leaving residents of the 161 occupied units displaced and at least four injured. The massive plumes of smoke could be seen throughout the district and lingered long enough to produce school closings due to air quality. This was reportedly the wooden building’s third major fire in the past 10 years.

“They had to call in the Marines, that's how bad this has gotten, yet in city councils and state houses throughout the United States, those who make money off of the promotion of combustible wooden structures are telling lawmakers that their products are perfectly safe,” said Kevin Lawlor, a spokesperson for Build with Strength, a coalition of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association comprised of fire safety professionals, engineers, architects, community groups and industry experts committed to strengthening the nation’s building codes. “In our nation’s capital, where our laws are made, let’s hope that images of Marines, first responders, and good Samaritans rushing to save senior citizens from the very structure that was built to protect them is a catalyst for strengthening our building codes to prohibit the use of combustible materials.”

The entire complex consisted of affordable housing, with many of the seniors disabled and unable to flee on their own. Marines were seen carrying paralyzed residents out of the building, and the fire department released a video showing a firefighter carrying a resident down a ladder leaning against the side of the apartment

JUMP TO FILE #100818113 building. Video from the scene showed people rushing toward the building with wheelchairs to rescue residents inside. Local schools and businesses were closed following the fire.

Compounding the danger was a brick façade, masking the weak wooden structural make-up of the building. “A passerby, reporter, first responder, or even a tenant wouldn’t know that the structure and frame of the building was actually something more akin to firewood than brick until, as it did in this situation, a spark becomes a devasting fire that endangers the lives of an at-risk population, puts

people on the street, and diverts the fire, police and medical resources of an entire city toward an entirely preventable event,” continued Lawlor.

This blaze comes on the heels of a disturbing trend of fires in the Washington, DC area. Earlier that week, Prince George’s County, Maryland saw a devastating threealarm fire that led to 132 displaced people and $2.2 million worth of

damages. On a single day this May, two fires struck Prince George’s County and Fairfax County, Virginia, with the latter also striking a senior housing development.

Build with Strength, a coalition of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA), has launched a campaign to educate citizens, local and state officials, and industry experts about

the inherent dangers of woodframed construction, particularly in multi-story, residential and commercial buildings. As a grassroots organization, they work with local elected officials and industry workers, from architects to project managers, to advocate for the safety benefits of working with concrete-based construction.

- DDC PUBLIC AFFAIRS

1ST Responder Newspaper - MA

Nov/Dec, 2018

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Nov/Dec, 2018

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