1st Responder News Southeast October

The Southeast Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR

SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 24 WWW.1RBN.COM

OCTOBER, 2020

VEHICLE FIRE THREATENS FUEL PUMP IN OCALA

OCALA FIRE RESCUE

FL - On September 2nd, Ocala Fire Rescue units responded to a vehicle fire at the 2500 block of East Silver Springs Boulevard at 4:04 P.M. Crews arrived to find a pickup truck, with its engine compartment engulfed in flames, parked a few yards away from a fuel pump at a gas station.

- See full story on page 8

Join our Team of Dispatchers Paging with a Rewards Program!

Visit our website to fill out an application.

www.1rwn.com

PAGE 2

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

ALABAMA

CHIEF RICKY PHILLIPS

Traffic Accident on Brindlee Mtn Parkway Arab FD work a two car wreck on Wednesday, September 9th at the intersection of North Brindlee Mountain Parkway and 4th Avenue. No injuries were reported. The accident was investigated by Arab Police.

CHIEF RICKY PHILLIPS

Early Morning Fire in Arab Arab Fire Department was dispatched to a working structure fire in the early morning hours of September 9th. Arab Ladder 1 arrived to find a residential structure well involved. A primary search was conducted while an initial attack was started. The structure was cleared and fire attack continued. 4C-VFD provided water supply for the operation as a part of an automatic aid response. Personnel were on scene for about two hours. No one was injured in the incident.

Marshall County Arson Task Force is conducting an investigation into the fires cause.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

CHIEF RICKY PHILLIPS

Arab FD Works Two Car Wreck Arab FD, Arab PD and Marshall Health Systems EMS worked a two car wreck on Friday, September 11th on US Highway 231 South in front of the Arab Electric Coop. Arab FD Car 10 was first to arrive, reporting two occupied vehicles with extrication needed in one of the cars. Arab Ladder 1 arrived with Lt. Kyle Powell assuming operations while the crew of Ladder 1 used hydraulic rescue tools to gain access to the driver of one vehicle while medics from Marshall treated the second vehicle’s driver. Both drivers were transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Arab Police are investigating.

Area 24 location on the beach

SHANE SHIFFLETT

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

ADVERTISER INDEX

A guide to finding great companies

Company

Page

ATV Safety Training

22

Backstop USA

8

Firehouse Expo

13

Kimtek

9

Kochek

15

Municipal Equipment

24

NAFECO

5,23

Raynor Garage Doors

19

Raymond James

19

Team Equipment Inc. Waterous

SHANE SHIFFLETT

WRFD Engine Cuts Patient Out on Watson Blvd Warner Robins, GA - On August 28th, Houston Healthcare EMS was alerted to Corder Road at Watson Blvd for an accident with injuries. Med 1 arrived and found multi vehicles involved requesting assistance from WRFD for a confinement.

Dispatch alerted Engine 4 to the scene to assist. Engine arrived under the direction of Lt. Martin & began the extrication.

Once extricated the patient was packaged and transported to Houston Healthcare. Engine 4 remained on scene till the towing company removed the vehicle. Warner Robins Police investigated the accident scene.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

WORKING FACES

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

3 17

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 21 No. 10 - South East edition is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Georgia Firefighters climb Stone Mountain

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 info@belsito.net

PUBLICATION CONTENT

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

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Lt. Mark Gibson doing morning operational checks on Engine 9.

We Wear Red every Friday to support our service members who are far from home.

Stone Mountain, GA - At 8:00 A.M., on September 11th, over 150 firefighters and police officers began the 2.2 mile trek in the hot humid Georgia heat to the top of Stone Mountain.

During the climb, firefighters paused each time to remember horrible events that took place in 2001. Firefighters came together from all over Georgia to honor the men & women who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11/2001. Once photos were taken & a small break from climbing, firefighters made the trek back to the bottom where the DeKalb County Fire Reserve Team provided snacks & water. Thank You for everyone who came out. Never Forget 343.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 5

PAGE 6

October, 2020

1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com

EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER

Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@Belsito.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER

Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR

Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• CIRCULATION MANAGER

Michelle Rosa (Michelle@1stResponder.com) ••• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Joe Belsito (Joe@1stRespondernews.com)

••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)

EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS •••

Rick Billings (Cartoon) AJ Fusco (Food Blog) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Video, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Robert “Pip” Piparo (Health & Fitness) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS •••

Suzanne Boisvert • Albert Borroto • David Burns • Tim Cavender • Willie Cirone • DJ Corcoran • Scott Dakin • Corey Dierdorff • Chris Dilley • Brad Dykens • Joel Gordon • Freddy Howell • Steve Huffman • Michael Hunnicutt • Patrick Juliano • Michael Kane • William King • Heather Langston • Kate Lind • Ashley Lopez • Chuck Lowe • Steve Mapes • Amy Maxwell • Ashley McDonald • Michael Moser • Elisha Pappacoda • Ricky Phillips • Charlie Robbins • Frank Robinson • Steve Rose • Stephen Sabo • Shane Shifflett • Kevin Snider • Ken Snyder • Sasha Staton • Eugene Weber Jr. • Matt Whiteshield

EDITORIAL INFORMATION

Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1stResponderNews.com

ADVERTISING INFORMATION

If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:

845-534-7500 ext. 211 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Advertising@1stResponderNews.com

CIRCULATION INFORMATION

1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $36 per year.

845-534-7500 ext. 220 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Circulation@1stResponderNews.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING

1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices.

As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scanning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce the highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.

845-534-7500 ext. 214 • (fax) 845-534-0055

In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

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

New Jersey: Ronnie Cordero, 61 Rank: Assistant Chief Incident Date: April 1, 2020 Death Date: April 22, 2020 Fire Department: Little Falls Fire Department Initial Summary: On Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Assistant Chief Ronnie Cordero drove the fire department apparatus to a service call at a residence. During that call, the crew came in close contact with the homeowner who stated that his son tested positive for COVID-19. He also stated that he had just returned from the hospital with COVID-19 related symptoms. The following day, the homeowner was transported by EMS to the hospital where he tested positive for the virus. Some of the EMS and fire personnel that Assistant Chief Cordero came in close contact with during this call and other responses were then tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies. Assistant Chief Ronnie Cordero was hospitalized on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, and passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, from the disease.

West Virginia: Russell K. Roberson, 42 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 21, 2020 Death Date: June 21, 2020 Fire Department:Iaeger Vol. Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday evening, June 20, 2020, firefighters from the Iaeger Volunteer Fire Department, as well as several other departments, responded to the scene of a residential fire. On Sunday, June 21, 2020, firefighters again responded to the same residence for a possible rekindle. While at the scene, Firefighter Russell K. Roberson evacuated a home owner from a second residence that had started to burn. He became ill and while being transported to the hospital, passed away.

The cause of his death has not yet been determined.

Missouri: Ron Wehlage, Jr., 40 Rank: Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Incident Date: June 27, 2020 Death Date: June 30, 2020 Fire Department: De Soto Rural Fire

Protection District Initial Summary: On Saturday evening, June 27, 2020, Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Ron Wehlage, Jr., responded to a residential fire. After his work duty ended on Sunday morning, June 28, 2020, he returned home.

On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, he did not show up for his next shift. Someone was sent to check on him and found Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Wehlage deceased at his home from an apparent heart attack. Individuals attempted to contact Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Wehlage on Sunday, June 28, 2020, but all attempts were unsuccessful.

West Virginia: Jason Cuffee, 27 Rank: Firefighter/Medic Incident Date: July 19, 2020 Death Date: July 20, 2020 Fire Department: Charleston Fire Department Initial Summary: At approximately 2330hrs., on Sunday, July 19, 2020, Firefighter/Medic Jason Cuffee was working at the Charleston Fire Department, Station 3. When he failed to respond to a call, his coworkers became concerned and went to check on him. They found Firefighter/Medic Cuffee unresponsive. They immediately performed CPR, and was then transported to the hospital where Firefighter Medic Cuffee was pronounced deceased in the early morning hours of Monday, July 20, 2020. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.

Georgia: Justin Robinson, 50 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: July 14, 2020 Death Date: July 21, 2020 Fire Department: Haralson County Fire Departmen Initial Summary: On Tuesday, July 14, 2020, Firefighter Justin Robinson was at the scene of a motor vehicle accident performing extrication of injured patients.

While at the crash site, he went into cardiac arrest.

Crews immediately initiated life saving measures and Firefighter Robinson was transported to the local hospital, where he passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

PAGE 7

October, 2020

GEORGIA

PROVIDED

Godfrey Promotes to Lieutenant

Winder, GA - Joshua Godfrey recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant for Barrow County Emergency Services (BCES). In his new role, Godfrey will supervise a crew of firefighters and EMTs, and is responsible for the station’s operation for his assigned shift. Godfrey began his fire service career in 2003, and joined BCES four years ago. In addition to being a EMT, he holds certifications as a HazMat Tech, Public Fire and Life Safety Educator, and a Public Safety Telecommunicator. Godfrey is currently assigned to Station 3 in Bethlehem on C-Shift.

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.

Wendy's aftermath

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Heavy fire on arrival at Wendy’s Around 9:30 P.M., Atlanta Fire Rescue Department was alerted to the Wendy’s Restaurant at 125 University Ave SW near I-75. Atlanta Fire apparatus had to stage and watch as the fire grow due to over 1000 protestors in and around the Wendy’s. Firefighters finally began to battle the blaze around 11 p.m., but by then a section of the interior appeared to be engulfed in flames.

The fire was started after windows were smashed and fireworks were

JUMP TO FILE #090320107 launched inside and a brush fire was also burning outside.

Earlier, the protesters set fire to cars parked outside the Wendy’s, and shut down part of Interstate 75/85, which is a major thoroughfare Atlanta.

A warrant for the women’s arrest was issued a few days after the

fire. Atlanta Fire Rescue tweeted then that White "has been identified as a suspect in the arson fire that burned down the Wendy's Restaurant (125 University Ave) on Saturday, June 13th."

The restaurant has been the site of several other shootings since the night of the fire & it remains closed with no plans of re-opening.

- SHANE SHIFFLETT

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Houston County Fire Bonaire Station 2 & Houston Healthcare EMS.

IN SERVICE

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

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Savannah & Chatham Fire work crash on Truman Pkwy

Perry Fire Engine 1 - 2017 Pierce Saber 1500/750.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

On August 22nd, Chatham Dispatch alerted Savanah Fire Engines 2 & 7 along with Chatham Fire-EMS for a vehicle accident with reported rollover on NB Truman Parkway near Montgomery Crossroads. Chatham County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene & found a single vehicle upright with injuries on the Whitlock Ave bridge. Chatham Emergency vehicles handled the accident with Savannah Fire going into service. The Sheriff’s Office blocked Truman for scene safety and directed vehicles onto Whitlock Ave.

PAGE 8

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Vehicle Fire Threatens Fuel Pump in Ocala On September 2nd, Ocala Fire Rescue units responded to a vehicle fire at the 2500 block of East Silver Springs Boulevard at 4:04 p.m. Engines 2, 3, and 5, Rescues 2 and 3, Squad 7, a Safety Officer, and Battalion Chief 11 were dispatched to the call.

Crews arrived to find a pick-up truck, with its engine com- JUMP TO FILE# partment engulfed in 090320100 flames, parked a few yards away from a fuel pump at a gas station.

Firefighters secured the scene and began battling the flames. The fire was completely extinguished within five minutes. No injuries were reported.

Knowing what to do in case of a vehicle fire can save your life. If you suspect your vehicle is on fire, please stop the car, turn off the ignition, step away from the vehicle, and call 9-1-1. The Ocala Police Department and Marion County Fire Rescue also responded.

- OCALA FIRE RESCUE

BACKSTOP

OCALA FIRE RESCUE

THE FULLY AUTOMATIC REVERSE BRAKING SYSTEM MINIMIZE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING OBSTACLES BACKSTOP applies the brakes instantly and automatically when a reversing vehicle contacts an obstacle.

COST SAVINGS Installing BACKSTOP minimizes damage costs to both the installed vehicle and surrounding obstacles.

May reduce insurance premiums.

MINIMIZE VEHICLE DAMAGE BACKSTOP projects beyond the rear of the vehicle, minimizing collision damage to doors, lights, and rear steps.

MAXIMUM SAFETY BACKSTOP’s instant and automatic braking system is much faster than a driver’s reaction time.

The brakes remain applied until the driver manually releases the brakes by shifting the vehicle out of reverse gear.

EASY INSTALLATION The BACKSTOP manual provides installation Instructions for almost any truck or emergency vehicle.

Don’t Back Up Without Backstop Backstop USA

18 Hollywood Blvd. S * Forked River, NJ 08731 Phone: 609-971-2756 * Toll Fre: (Outside NJ) 888-745-2983 * Fax: 609-971-2793 Email: support@backstop-usa.com * Website: wwwkstop-usa.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 9

PAGE 10

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

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

PROVIDED FRANK ROBINSON

Hillsborough Fire Rescue operates a 2013 E-One 2000/300/100' Tower Ladder.

CHUCK LOWE

Hillsborough County Engine 32 runs a 2018 Pierce Saber 2000 GPM pumper that carries 750 gallons of water.

Rainy Sunday Leads to Several Vehicle Crashes in Ocala Ocala, Fl - On Sunday, August 30th, rainy weather and slick roads led Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters to respond to several motor vehicle accidents. From fender benders to rollovers, wet roads resulted in an overabundance of traffic incident calls. Among the more notable occurrences were a rollover, a vehicle versus building, and a jackknifed truck. At 8:40 A.M. Ocala fire crews were dispatched to a vehicle rollover on I-75 NB, between mile marker 352 and mile marker 354.

While en route, crews learned that the vehicle was accessible from an interior road. Approaching the

JUMP TO FILE #083120103 scene from NW 37th Avenue, crews gained access to a pick-up truck lying on its side. The driver - sole occupant - was assessed and transported to the hospital for evaluation. No other injuries were reported.

A few hours later, crews responded to a vehicle versus building. At 1:31 p.m. firefighters arrived at the scene of a vehicle crash that resulted in an SUV impacting the Paddock Park Animal Care Center.

Three patients were transported to the hospital. No pet injuries were reported.

One hour later, fire crews made their way to I-75, where a pick-up truck with a trailer jackknifed over the State Road 40 overpass, blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Although traffic on I-75 NB was affected for some time, no injuries were reported.

Ocala Fire Rescue reminds drivers to slow down, avoid hard breaks, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles while driving on wet roads or under rainy conditions.

- PROVIDED

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.

CHUCK LOWE

Orlando Engine 15 operates a 2007 Sutphen Monarch 1500 GPM pumper. This apparatus carries 500 gallons of water and 30 gallons of foam.

CHUCK LOWE

Pasco County Mobile Air 2 operates this 2010 Freightliner FL106 that was built by Emergency One.

PROVIDED

Holt Fire District, Unit 30, Holt, Fla., in the northwest Florida panhandle. The figure in the middle represents the Holt Gophers (a Florida land tortoise), long identified with Holt and Holt School.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 11

FLORIDA

During Pandemic, Protecting Both Responders and the Public Requires a Special Touch The Coronavirus--or COVID 19--pandemic is global, indiscriminate, highly infectious and potentially deadly.

It has changed the way the world does business, and how JUMP TO FILE# 090120101 first responders carry out their critical duties. To conduct their work in manner that keeps them, as well as those who they come in contact with, safe and well, public safety personnel are increasingly managing risk through no-physical-contact interventions.

For the U.S. Coast Guard, there continues to be a need to provide search and rescue assistance from the air and on the sea.

“The Coast Guard is still operating and continuing to provide search and rescue assistance,” said Cmdr. Mike Baird, CDR Mike Baird, Response Department Head for Coast Guard Sector North Bend, Ore. “We’re implementing tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to keep our responders as safe as possible. We have adapted these TTPs to the way that we fly and operate. Our rescue swimmers are trained as EMTs, and are in the best position to evaluate the situation on scene and notify the flight crew about the patient's condition.” Baird said the Sector has trained personnel on the TTPs, and on how and when to don personal protective equipment (PPE). “When conducting lifesaving interventions, our aircrews use normal procedures and, when necessary, implement the COVID 19 TTP. The goal is to save lives and keep the aircrew safe.”

As Rescue Swimmers can’t wear an N95 mask or avoid contact during a water rescue, the survivor is quickly evaluated after being rescued. If they show signs or symptoms of COVID-19, the crew dons their PPE and the Sector Command Center is notified.

Co-located with Coast Guard Air Station North Bend, the Sector North Bend is also taking other precautions, including instituting a disaggregated work schedule, avoiding close contact, and, when possible, having personnel work remotely. Gatherings are limited to a few people and all hands meetings and morning quarters have been replaced by group emails and individual contact through the chain of command.

“In addition to increasing the cleaning schedule at the station, off going and oncoming air and boat crews wipe down their duty rooms,” Baird said. “If we can’t

social-distance, we wear masks.

Eliminating our large gatherings makes passing information more difficult. We’re relying on our department heads, division officers, and especially our chief petty officers to pass the word.”

Customs and Border Protection Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has implemented a proactive, multi-layered approach to minimize their employees’ exposure to COVID-19 as they fulfill CBP’s critical national security mission. According to Dennis Smith, a CBP spokesman, and consistent with its social distancing guidelines, the CBP workforce is teleworking when possible. “CBP has equipped its workforce with videoconferencing, teleconferencing and other tools and guidance to ensure swift, efficient, and timely communication between frontline personnel and teleworking employees,” Smith said.

“CBP has ensured that personnel who cannot telework have ready access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including nitrile gloves and N95 respirators, as well as comprehensive guidance for the use of that equipment.

We have also issued cleaning guidelines to all CBP facilities to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

CBP took early action to ensure that all Sectors and Field Offices were stocked with PPE, including eye protection and disposable outer garments. CBP also provided comprehensive guidance to all personnel on using PPE based on infectious disease risks, job functions and job settings,” he said. The CBP Senior Medical Advisor and Occupational Safety and Health team established robust procedures and guidance for supervisors and personnel to assess risk from potential COVID-19 exposure, and recommended actions to ensure mission continuity during this complex, novel and evolving pandemic. At facilities where an exposure has occurred, all employees are notified as soon as possible. Employees who have been in direct contact with a colleague who has tested positive for COVID-19 are provided with guidance based on the specific risks associated with the exposure.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our workforce and the American people. CBP will continue to take every necessary precaution to keep our employees, their families and the American people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Smith said.

No-touch rescues The job of a lifeguard at a beach or pool is inherently dangerous. Even when

PROVIDED

Responders are using remote controlled rescue systems like the Hydronalix E.M.I.L.Y. (Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard) to conduct touch-free rescues.

beaches are closed, there are people in the water in trouble and in need of intervention. This year the added risk of COVID 19 is requiring new safeguards, including temperature checks, social distancing, wearing masks, cleaning chairs and equipment and additional training to monitor people for signs of the virus. Performing interventions requires new protocols, such as no-contact CPR. Much of a lifeguard’s duties are preventative. According to the U.S. Lifesaving Association, beach lifeguards executed more than 8 million preventative actions in 2018 compared with 86,000 rescues.

Carl Commenator, a vice president with Hydronalix, manufacturer of the EMILY (Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard) remote-controlled unmanned surface vehicle, said the current pandemic response has drawn attention to EMILY’s inherently COVID-19 compliant capability. “EMILY allows first responders to save someone from drowning without having to make contact with the individual, thereby maintaining a safe distance and preventing the first responder from contracting the virus or other communicable disease,” Commenator said. Capt. Pat O’Neill of the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) Lifeguards Unit said the EMILY is one of the techniques lifeguards can

use to conduct rescues that are safe for rescuers and swimmers in trouble. “If there’s no rescuer, there’s nobody to save the victim,” O’Neill said.

In addition to saving victims, Fernando Boiteux, Chief of the LACFD Lifeguards Unit, said the EMILY system protects workers and can reduce the potential for costly workers compensation claims from responders who contract COVID-19 in the line of duty.

“EMILY is a very useful tool for lifesaving and search and rescue. It makes our operation more efficient, and as a manager, it can save us money,” Boiteux said.

Clear communications at a distance Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs), made by San Diego, Calif.-based Genasys Inc., are being used by public safety personnel and first responders in more than 450 U.S. cities and in 72 countries to communicate to people at safe, stand-off distances in a variety of everyday duties and elevated risk operations.

"Homeland security and public safety agencies in several countries, including the U.S., Australia, Colombia, India, Spain, Poland, Morocco, South Africa, Thailand and Malaysia are using LRAD systems in the agencies’ COVID-19 responses," said David Schnell, Vice President for Business Development for Genasys, Inc. "Our mobile voice broadcast systems

enable operators to safely communicate critical information to individuals and groups from extended standoff distances."

LRAD COVID-19 uses include communicating to people inside vehicles and buildings, facilitating Coronavirus drivethrough testing, communication to outdoor testing areas, and quarantine and curfew notifications.

Beyond COVID-19 applications, Schnell said one Florida sheriff’s department is using a helicopter-mounted LRAD to broadcast air-to ground warnings to beachgoers that include strong currents, shark sightings or water pollution. Lifeguards in San Diego have found LRADs are more effective than bullhorns in warning swimmers of rip-tides, rogue waves or encroaching motorboats.

All lifeguard towers in San Diego are outfitted with LRADs, with lifeguards at Coronado Beach using their LRADs almost every day, he said. Genasys public warning system are also installed in several California cities, including Mill Valley, Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, to warn residents and visitors of wildfires, flooding, tsunamis and other critical events.

Newport Beach is also using its Genasys system to deliver COVID-19 information and notifications, Schnell said.

- EDWARD LUNDQUIST

PAGE 12

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

CIRONE PHOTOS

CIRONE PHOTOS

Chief Lee Whitehurst President Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association welcomes everyone.

CIRONE PHOTOS

CIRONE PHOTOS

Social Distancing and the event was streamed on social media.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Manatee County Fire Academy Holds Lpg Live Fire Day Manatee County Emergency Services Honor Guard.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Like any School Manatee County Fire Academy has been effected by the Pandemic, canceled classes, limited size and class size. With four classes running at the same time with 45 students total, most of the lecture was done on line with Zoom. Now back on the Fireground making up time. Most Students will graduate in Mid to late September.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Pasco County Fire Rescue Announces The Rollout of the DECON 1 Program In 2020 fire service history was set to be made in Pasco County.

The first of its kind, on-scene decontamination apparatus aimed at modernizing firefighter health and wellness, was placed JUMP TO FILE# in service. The unit 091520107 is called PCFR Decon 1.

Decon 1 is an on-scene gear delivery and decontamination process that provides Pasco County firefighters with clean gear after every fire, Hazardous Materials incident, and significant EMS incident before returning to the station. The decontamination apparatus is staffed 24/7 with a firefighter/decon technician,

Get your personal copy of

The SE Edition

Name:______________________

Telephone:___________________ Address:____________________ City: ______________________

State:_____ Zip: _____________ __ $36 for one year subscription

__ $60 for two year subscription

PAYMENT METHOD

__ Check

__ Money Order __ Charge card

Card # _____________________ Exp:____________

Signature ___________________

Send payment to: 1ST RESPONDER NEWSPAPER 1 ARDMORE STREET NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553

Amount enclosed: ______

For Credit Card Orders: just fax this to (845) 534-0055 or subscribe online at

www.1RBN.com

backed up by two alternate decon technicians.

So, how did we get here? As in many fire departments across America, Pasco County Fire Rescue recognized the need to implement and define on-scene decontamination. A committee was formed and met to identify the parameters of Tox-Decontamination and how we should move forward. The tedious task of determining what and how to decon was started. We also needed to identify what type of equipment is necessary to complete the on-scene decontamination process.

As with many new programs, they often morph, and the Pasco County Fire Rescue's initial ToxDecon program was no exception.

During 2017, after many meetings and much research, a plan was created and prepared for implementation.

Our revisions are made because new research is available, or new equipment is needed. At times we discovered what we were doing was sufficient, but at other times we found a superior way to complete the task of on-scene decon.

The vision of Decon 1 started during discussions about the purchasing process for the second set of gear for each firefighter, the required documentation for each set

by NFPA (Advanced inspections, cleanings, repairs, etc.), and then managing the equipment for each shift. The discussion also revolved around the importance of Decon for our Firefighters.

Our Decon 1 process boasts five different stations: Station 1 – Gross Decon Station 2 – equipment drop Station 3 – PPE drop Station 4 – shelter to clean/change contaminated uniform Station 5 – clean PPE distribution This system can quickly expand or contract based on incident needs.

With a rough idea of what we wanted, Decon 1 began to come together. We first discussed PPE, how much was needed, what sizes, how we were going to carry it, and how we would distribute it. We also included in the PPE: helmet headbands changed out on the scene, exchanged gloves, exchanged hoods, and finally exchanged radio straps.

Decon 1 is currently carrying 160 sets of gear with a complete variety of sizes for our firefighters. To keep all equipment and supplies organized, we implemented a hanging system and storage bins. Over the next 12 months, we are transitioning to use RFID to assist us in tracking the PPE. The conversations moved to the type of apparatus to be used in this application. Should we purchase a stock vehicle, use a trailer or custom build? We decided to move forward with a 24' stock box truck to begin the program. We quickly realized the need for a purpose-built unit, and moved on with plans to design and build a custom, one of a kind apparatus.

PROVIDED

Besides, the PPE that will be carried on Decon 1, supplies needed to operate on the scene are: • Pneumatic Shelter • Tarps • Cones • Green buckets with brushes • ¾" hose and nozzle, adaptor • Large laundry bin • Decon bags /6 mil bags • Seat covers • Decon wipes • Tyvek with PAPR – for technicians • Slides After being in service for a couple weeks, we have discovered a need for additional items: a small table and chair set, toolbox, 10x10 canopy, cooler for refreshments/water, and extra lights.

These have been purchased.

We are adhering to "shower within the hour" protocol; however, when you consider the variety of carcinogenic products firefighters are exposed to, we felt the need to add another component to our on-scene decon process. We need to get our firefighters as clean as possible before they leave the fire ground. This included having a change of clothes available on the scene, a safe, modest way to change inside a portable shelter, and wipes to ensure the removal of additional carcinogens.

To address on-scene needs, we are outfitting a "go-bag" for all firefighters. While on shift, Firefighters must carry a change of duty uniform, undergarments, and shoes inside their go-bag. The go-bag will be used when the firefighter enters the portable shelter to clean and change their dirty dress. One of our operational considerations during a hazardous materials incident is Time, Distance, and Shielding.

Using decon wipes and changing clothes helps us to reach this concept.

Decon isn't meant to be just another "check in the box" for our incident commanders; it needs to be a working group within the Incident Management System. To achieve this, the Decon Technician is assigned as the Decon group leader on an incident. This allows the technician to manage their division while still working under the Incident Commander.

We committed to assigning staff 24/7 with sworn personnel. Our technicians will be required to: • become NFPA 1851 certified, • manage all assigned PPE on their

assigned shift, • launder all contaminated gear, • return cleaned gear to personnel, and • of course, maintain Decon 1 supply.

We are doing a "soft rollout" to work through all details and identify where we need to make changes and improvements. We are planning to evaluate at 30, 60, and 90 days, after which recommendations will be made to finalize an Administrative Order concerning Decon 1 and its operation. We are open to receive feedback from all stakeholders. To date, the overwhelming response has been positive from our firefighters and Union. We are finding the firefighters are most interested in using the decon wipes and receiving clean gear.

We are excited to share our experiences regarding PCFR Decon 1.

If you have questions or recommendations, my contact information is below.

John Schmidt Division Chief – Health, Safety, and Training Pasco County Fire Rescue jschmidt@pascocountyfl.net - PROVIDED

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

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

Kochek and AWG Team Up to Deliver Outstanding Valve Quality Kochek Company, LLC has announced its new alliance with AWG Fittings GmbH. The two companies have partnered to provide Kochek loose equipment dealers with the superior performance and reliability for which AWG valves are known throughout the industry.

As Kochek's primary supplier of several sizes of gate, ball, intake, hydrassist, manifold, siamese, and pressure relief valves, AWG plays an important role in Kochek's efforts to ensure the continued satisfaction of its dealers and customers. With every order, Kochek custom fits each valve to exacting specifications.

Kochek President and CEO, George J. Wessner, said of the relationship with AWG, "We're thrilled to work with AWG to make this quality possible for our

customers. They rely on their Kochek equipment when it matters most, and our valve performance is something they can always count on in the field."

About Kochek Headquartered in Putnam, CT, Kochek Company is a leading producer of water movement products for fire, water works, and irrigation markets throughout North America and abroad. In order to achieve its mission to manufacture and deliver the highest quality products at competitive prices, Kochek follows the guiding principles of lean manufacturing. More information about Kochek and the company's entire product line may be found at www.kochek.com.

- PROVIDED

FLORIDA

Four Transported After Two Collisions Involving Motorcycles in Ocala Ocala, Fl - On September 6th, Ocala Fire Rescue responded to two separate vehicle versus motorcycle calls within an hour of each other, earlier today.

At 3:19 p.m. Engine 1 and Rescue 1 were dispatched to a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of N. Pine Avenue and NW 22nd Street. Crews arrived at the scene of an accident involving a car and a motorcycle to find four ambulatory individuals and one patient laying on the ground.

The patient on the ground, the motorcycle driver, was trauma alerted to the hospital. No other injuries were reported.

Shortly thereafter, Engines 1, 3, and 5, and Rescue 3 were dis-

patched a similar call.

At 3:54 p.m. crews were advised of a collision involving a motorcycle on W. Anthony Road and NW. 35th Street. This time the incident involved four people, one of which was ambulatory.

Both the driver and passenger of the motorcycle were trauma alerted to the hospital.

The passenger of the vehicle involved was also transported to the hospital. The driver of the vehicle had no injuries to report.

Ocala Police Department, and Marion County Fire Rescue also responded.

- OCALA FIRE RESCUE

Read more stories from around each state on our website! www.1rbn.com

October, 2020

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Firefighters Save Dog from Apartment Fire in Ocala

Bob Long

PROVIDED

Ocala, Fl - On September 11th, Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) responded to reports of a fire alarm at Canterbury Circle apartment complex at 7:38 P.M. OFR Engines 3, 4, and 6, Rescue 3, Squad 7, Battalion Chief 22, and a Safety Officer were JUMP TO FILE# dispatched to the call 091320115 at the 3500 block of SW 38th Terrace.

Upon arrival, crews encountered a strong smell of smoke near the unit that triggered the fire alarm. Without residents to facilitate access, firefighters forced entry into the unit. Upon entering, crews found a dog attempting to exit the smoke-filled staircase of the second-floor duplex unit. The dog was removed and taken to safety.

Engine crews made their way up the stairs to find a fire in the kitchen and an active sprinkler system dousing the flames. The fire was under control by 7:52 P.M. and extinguished by 7:56 P.M. The sprinkler system was deactivated, and overhaul operations began.

Four people (two second-floor unit residents and two from the firstfloor unit) were displaced due to significant water damage. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is unknown.

The Ocala Police Department, Ocala Electric Utility, and Marion County Fire Rescue also responded.

- OCALA FIRE RESCUE

VOLUSIA COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

Volusia County HazMat Response On the morning of Sepember 10th, Volusia County Fire Rescue's Hazardous Materials Team (HazMat) responded to a rollover accident involving a dump truck. The truck offloaded approximately 65 gallons of diesel fuel onto the roadway in DeLand. One trauma alert was called.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Say it with me now...KEEN Wah! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

Pasco County Fire Rescue Hits the Streets

Firefighters from across the county geared up, turned their emergency lights on, waved signs, and hit the roads to remind drivers to slow down. With signs in hand, they greeted drivers as they drove through school zones and told them to keep an extra watchful eye. Pasco County Fire Rescue felt it was important this year due to COVID 19 and the extended lack of busses on the roadway. We are happy to report that there were no pedestrians struck on the first day of school. Thank you to all the careful and alert drivers in Pasco County!

Kochek Introduces New, Upgraded Pistol Grip Ball Valves September 14, 2020--Putnam, CT - Kochek Company, LLC has announced that new, custom Scotty pistol grip ball valves are replacing its former offerings.

The new Kochek ball valves in 1.0” and 1.5" sizes are now sourced directly from Scotty® Firefighter to ensure durability and top-quality performance. To further meet the rigorous demands of the field, Kochek re-engineered the Scotty models to include a lightweight aluminum full-time 360º female swivel on all models and aluminum male threads on most models, excluding those with 1.5” NH Male threads.

These high-flow pistol grip ball valves are compatible with most 1.0” and 1.5” threaded nozzles, allowing for flow rates up to 100 GPM. They come with a bail positioned on top, permitting reliable, smooth shut-off operation.

All Kochek's standard finishes and colors are available on the aluminum components, and laser engraving is available.

Scotty® Firefighter, a division of Scott Plastics Limited based in British Columbia, Canada, manufactures forestry hand pumps and backpacks, foam and gel systems,

nozzles, wrenches, adapters, connectors, and valves. A complete product view is found at www.ScottyFire.com.

About Kochek Headquartered in Putnam, CT, Kochek Company is a leading producer of water movement products for fire, water works, and irrigation markets throughout North America and abroad. In order to achieve its mission to manufacture and deliver the highest quality products at competitive prices, Kochek follows the guiding principles of lean manufacturing. More information about Kochek and the company's entire product line may be found at www.kochek.com.

- PROVIDED

So in case you missed it or didn’t know, quinoa is pronounced KEEN-wah. If you have been living under a rock, you wouldn’t know that this ancient “grain”/superfood has become extremely popular over the last few years.

And while its popularity is in its infancy here in the United States, historical evidence puts its domestication for human consumption 34 thousand years ago in Peru and Bolivia. But perhaps its biggest misconception is that it isn’t actually a grain at all. In fact, quinoa is the seed from a flowering plant in the amaranth family. It is more closely related to spinach than say rice. Because of this, it is a gluten-free food, which makes it

Serves 2-4

perfect for those with gluten allergies. Many recipes that contain grains such as wheat, rice and barley can easily be substituted with quinoa. They even make quinoa flour for baking!

So now that we have the pronunciation down, let’s talk about cooking with quinoa. In the firehouse, I have found that it's hit or miss when it comes to putting out a successful meal using this delicious ingredient. Those who haven’t tried it are often reluctant just based on the name alone. And some just don’t like the texture, like when one of my partners said it felt like he was eating sand, which I find to be a little bit of an exaggeration. The great thing about quinoa is that while it certainly has its own flavor, it is mild enough to “play well in the sandbox” with other flavors, sort of like rice. It is delicious on its own, cooked in some chicken stock or seasoned water, but using it in other ways is where I find it to be more accessible to others

who may have not tried it. I have used it successfully in casseroles and stir-frys, but one of my favorite applications is to use it as a stuffing, like in this recipe for stuffed acorn squash. And it is seasonally versatile as well.

While this acorn squash recipe is perfect for the fall, a cold quinoa salad with cucumber and tomato is delicious for the summer. Maybe use it in a Spring quinoa bowl with peas, lemon and mint. Or how about using it as a base for beef stew in the winter?! Seriously though, you get the idea.

And besides its versatility, it is extremely healthy. In fact, a 2017 study in the Journal of Nutraceuticals and Food Science found that when compared to other cereals like wheat, corn and barley, quinoa has more protein and a greater balance of essential amino acids. Not only is it a good source of protein and fiber, it is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

It is no wonder this crop was so important to the Incan people!

QUINOA-CHICKEN SAUSAGE STUFFED ACORN SQUASH

Ingredients:

2 Acorn Squash, cut in half horizontally, seeds and stringy flesh scooped out. ½ lb. Chicken Sausage, casing removed ½ Apple, seeded and chopped ½ Onion, chopped 1 Garlic Clove, diced 4 Sage Leaves, diced 1 tsp. Paprika 1 tsp. Ground Cumin 3/4 Cup Dry Quinoa, cooked according to package 3/4 Cup Shredded White Cheddar Cheese, reserve half for garnish Salt, to taste EVOO Optional: Finely chopped chives for garnish

AJ FUSCO

• Add the cooked quinoa to the sausage mixture and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Preheat oven to 400* F

• While the squash is baking, cook the quinoa according to the package and brown the sausage in a drizzle of EVOO in a medium saute pan. Using a slotted spoon, remove cooked sausage and set aside in a bowl.

• Place squash on a foil lined sheet pan, cut side down.

Roast for 25 minutes or until soft. Remove from the oven.

• Add the garlic, sage and spices to the pan and cook until fragrant. Remove the onion-apple mixture and add it to the cooked sausage.

• Garnish with chives and serve.

Procedure:

• Trim both ends of the acorn squash off. Cut the squash in half horizontally and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh. Drizzle with EVOO and a pinch of salt.

• In the same pan, add the onions and saute until lightly browned. Add the apples and saute until the apples start to soften.

• Add half of the shredded cheddar to the mix and stir.

Place the cooked squash on the same sheet pan cut side up. Stuff with quinoa-sausage mix, top with more cheese and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is browned.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

CIRONE PHOTOS

City of Bradenton Fire Assists with Body Recovery in Manatee River Shortly after 9:30 A.M. Sunday morning, September 6th, a call came into City of Bradenton Dispatch reporting a person floating in the Manatee River. Units responded to the 200 block of Riverside Dr East near Manatee Memorial Hospital, City of Bradenton Fire Boat was requested to help with what would now be a recovery. Bradenton Fire brought the body to shore, this incident is under investigation by City of Bradenton Police.

VOLUSIA COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

Entrapment in Volusia County On September 15th, Volusia County Fire Rescue, Edgewater Fire and Rescue, Port Orange Fire and Rescue and New Smyrna Beach Fire Department responded to a vehicle rollover with heavy entrapment. The vehicle was in three feet of water in the median of a Volusia County highway. One patient was listed as a trauma alert and flown to a trauma center while another patient was transported immediately via ground to a local hospital. A third patient was treated on the scene.

October, 2020

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

DEPARTMENT PROFILE

If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

City of Marathon Florida Fire

Pasco County Fire Rescue Responds to Car into Home in Jasmine Lakes

On the morning of August 20th, Pasco County Fire Rescue responded to a single SUV through the front of a home in the 7700 Block of Jasmine Blvd. in New Port Richey. When firefighters arrived, they reported a single-vehicle through the front of the house. Thankfully the driver of the vehicle and no one inside the home was injured. Firefighters from Engine 11 and Squad 1 called for a building inspector and shored up the resident's home. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

See more features on

www.1rbn.com PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

PAGE 21

October, 2020

FLORIDA

Pasco County Fire Rescue Chief Cassin Honors Firefighter Hambone with a Permanent Plaque at Station 13 for his Dedicated Service Have you ever wondered where the name for Hambone Way in Wesley Chapel came from?

In February of 2015, many of Pasco County Dignitaries and Leaders, including the Greater Wesley Chamber of Commerce, gathered to christen what was previously an JUMP TO FILE# unidentified road, 082420101 as “Hambone Way”. Hambone Way in Wesley Chapel, Florida, is named after devoted firefighter William Hammond, who has dedicated over 18 years of service to the citizens of Pasco County, specifically, the heart of the Wesley Chapel area known as “Angus Valley”.

Recently, Fire Chief Scott

Cassin made an appearance at Pasco County Fire Rescue Station 13 to present and dedicate a plaque of the article reporting the establishment of “Hambone Way” originally published in “The Laker” Wesley Chapel/New Tampa edition on February 25, 2015, to Firefighter Hammond.

The plaque will remain a permanent fixture in the station and will serve in the tradition of showcasing the history of the specific station within its lobby. The Fire Chief, commending Firefighter Hambone’s dedication, expressed that he is “truly grateful to have the opportunity to honor an individual who has been of instrumental value to the department”.

- PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

TENNESSEE

DRILLS/TRAINING

PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

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

PROVIDED

Challenge Coin Received

by MTAS Steve Cross

Congratulations to Steve Cross from MTAS on receiving the “Challenge Coin.” Steve was nominated by Chief Richard Shasteen. Steve is a retired firefighter with Columbia and now the fire consultant for MTAS. Steve helped Tullahoma Fire Department with the Berry Brady Act training and with our Assistant Chief search and interview process. He spends many hours helping fire departments statewide improve their services. We appreciate your support and dedication!

Pasco County Firefighters Train with Bayflite 4 on their new Bell 407 Helicopter

COREY DIERDORFF

PAGE 22

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FIREFIGHTER, From Rookie to Chief ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

FIREFIGHTER From Rookie to Chief

By A. I Dower

Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $19.95

This is a soft cover book measuring 6 inches by 9 inches and has 164 pages plus nine pages of black and white photos. The author at present will be 95 years old this year. He joined the London Fire Brigade in 1950 and retired in 1983 after rising from rookie to chief and then inspector. There are 13 chapters of interesting reading starting with a chapter before the fire service and building on each subsequent chapter which was memoirs of each rank that he held. I believe that he may have had intended to address British readers

because there is no glossary to explain many terms used by the British fire service which different from the United States fire service. Nevertheless it is a colorful read especially trying to figure out what certain terms or titles may mean. Sometimes I had to go to the search engine of my computer to find a definition here and there. Add to that the jargon spoken by the English much of which Americans may describe as slang, and you have interesting stories. Although he spent his career in many assignments in many different types of areas, he explains about his experiences battling fires and emergencies of all kinds. He does not dwell on many of these calls some of which were tragic and others at times humorous. We must not forget fire station routines and atmospheres of comradery which are always fun to read about and those can be found in the book. One of this things which amused me the most is how the British could take a noun or verb that Americans would be familiar with and present with another word or term. In those cases I would say to myself, “Yeah I guess you could call it that also!� In any event I believe this is an interesting book to read for anyone who has the time. The photos are at the end of the book and are mostly group photos or presentation.

He and his late wife are in one photo.

She is credited with being an important inspiration to him when he did his writing. He now resides in Spain.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

October, 2020

PAGE 23

PAGE 24

October, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE