1st Responder News Southeast July Edition

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JULY, 2019

TWO-ALARM FIRE DESTROYS CRYSTAL BAR IN PASCO COUNTY

PASCO COUNTY FD

Pasco County, FL - Pasco County Fire Rescue assisted Zephyrhills Fire Rescue on a two-alarm fire at the Crystal Bar on Gall Blvd. on May 2nd. At approximately 11:30 A.M., Zephyrhills Fire received a call of a commercial structure fire at the Crystal Bar. - See full story on page 16

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

TENNESSEE

Front side of the home.

AMY MAXWELL

Morning Fire Destroys Home and Displaces Family in Harrison Harrison, TN - At 8:45 A.M. on April 15th, a 911 call was made reporting a fire in a bedroom located at 6915 Sentinel Lane.

Highway 58 firefighters responded and found the nearest fire hydrant 2,200-feet away from the burning structure, prompting them to request a mutual aid response for additional apparatus and manpower. Chattanooga FD and TriCommunity VFD responded to the scene.

Firefighters worked quickly laying 2,200-feet of hose line to get water on the burning structure.

Fire officials reported that three victims escaped the home,

JUMP TO FILE #041519114 two of which had no injuries. The third adult sustained airway burns and was transported to Erlanger Medical Center by HCEMS. The cause of the fire is undetermined and was under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. The home, valued at $100,000, is a total loss.

The American Red Cross responded to assist the displaced family.

- AMY MAXWELL

DJ CORCORAN

Roof Collapse Displaces Knoxville Residents Knoxville, TN - Following an overnight storm on April 19th, units from the Knoxville FD responded to 1100 Lula Powell, 1100 Studio Apartments, for the report of a roof collapse. When firefighters arrived around 1:45 A.M., they found the rubber membrane roof

JUMP TO FILE #041919112 had blown off half of the apartment complex's 'C/D' building, which housed approximately 150 units.

Fire crews evacuated around

70 units in the 'D' building via the Knoxville Police Department, Fire Department and K-Tran buses to the Civic Colosseum. No injuries were reported.

- DJ CORCORAN

COMMAND VEHICLES

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

AMY MAXWELL

Chattanooga Fire assisted with the Mutual Aid response.

Metro Nashville Office of Emergency Management's command vehicle.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

July, 2019

PAGE 3

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

TENNESSEE

ADVERTISER INDEX

PATCH OF THE MONTH

A guide to finding great companies

Company

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.

Page

American Trademark

22

Armor Tuff Flooring

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Done Right Fire

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Firehouse Expo

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Municipal Equipment

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MFRD

Power Surge Causes Fire at Chrisman Motel

Murfreesboro, TN - At approximately 4:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 9th, MFRD responded to the Chrisman Motel at 5630 NW Broad Street. A truck leaving the parking lot snagged a lowhanging power line, causing it to fall on the building and create a power surge. The resulting surge led to a fire in two of the units. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fires, and no occupants or firefighters were injured. In addition to the two units that received moderate fire damage, approximately four-six other units were impacted due to a loss of power. Not all of these rooms were occupied at the time of the fire. The Red Cross is assisting the affected families.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

Raymond James

19

This patch belongs to Firestone Plant Fire Department, located in Shelby County, TN.

Rock Star Training

18

FIRE EQUIPMENT

Water Rescue Innnovations

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

13

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 20 No. 7 - 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.

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DJ CORCORAN

Garage Fire in Knoxville Destroys SUV

Knoxville, TN - At 3:15 P.M. on April 22nd, units from the Knoxville FD responded to 4908 Oakbrook Ct. for the report of a residential fire. When firefighters arrived they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the garage area of the split foyer. Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, but not before the fire involved an SUV parked in the garage. A primary and secondary search for any individuals was completed by additional manpower. One 13-year-old male resident, who had attempted to extinguish the flames from outside with a garden hose, was sent to the hospital with mild smoke inhalation. Arson investigators were on the scene to determine the cause of the fire. No other injuries were reported. The American Red Cross will assist the family with temporary placement.

AMY MAXWELL

Crews laid 2,200-feet of hose to get water to the scene of a house fire in Harrison on April 15th.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

July, 2019

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July, 2019

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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

Illinois: Jacob "Jake" Ringering, 37 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 5, 2019 Death Date: March 5, 2019 Fire Department: Godfrey Fire Protection District Initial Summary: While at the scene of a residential structure fire, Captain Jacob Ringering and three additional firefighters were injured when a portion of the structure collapsed as they attacked the fire. Ringering was taken to the hospital where he passed away from the injuries he sustained. One of the additional firefighters was flown by helicopter to the hospital where he is in stable condition. The two remaining firefighters were treated and released.

Pennsylvania: Michael Bernstein, 46 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 20, 2019 Death Date: March 20, 2019 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Michael Bernstein suffered a medical emergency while on-duty at Engine 78 at Philadelphia International Airport. Bernstein was transported to Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital where he passed away. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined.

California: Daniel Laird, 41 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 27, 2019 Death Date: March 27, 2019 Fire Department: United States Forest Service Tahoe National Forest Initial Summary: While helping with an aerial delivered prescribed burn in the Sam Houston National Forest in Texas, Captain Daniel Laird’s helicopter went down. Laird passed away from the injuries he sustained in the crash. Other crew members sustained non-lifethreatening injuries.

Connecticut: James "Woody" Woodman, 55 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: October 5, 1999 Death Date: March 29, 2019 Fire Department: West Haven Fire Department

Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic James “Woody” Woodman was a member of Recruit Class #15 at the Connecticut State Fire Academy. Only two days after being out of the academy, on October 5, 1999, Woodman was part of an ambulance crew transporting a child who had been struck by a vehicle to the Yale-New Haven Hospital. As they neared the hospital, the ambulance was broadsided by a bus and rolled over multiple times. Woodman sustained a traumatic brain injury that resulted in his living in a long-term care facility until his death on March 29, 2019. The child who was being transported and other crew members of the ambulance were seriously injured but have all made complete recoveries.

New Jersey: John "Jack" Leming, 78 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 15, 2019 Death Date: April 15, 2019 Fire Department: Cape May Point Volunteer Fire Company #1 Initial Summary: Firefighter John Leming attended a drill on 04/15/2019 at the fire station at approximately 7:00 pm. At the conclusion of the drill, he returned home. During the night, he became ill. His wife called 911 and EMS responded. During transport to a local hospital, Leming went into cardiac arrest and life saving measures were not successful. Leming was pronounced deceased shortly after his arrival at the hospital.

South Dakota: Dwain Hudson, 73 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 17, 2019 Death Date: April 17, 2019 Fire Department: Argyle Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On April 17, 2019, Argyle Volunteer Fire Department was called to an active wildland fire that was endangering structures. While responding as a passenger in the department’s compressed air foam truck, Firefighter Dwain Hudson experienced a medical emergency. Firefighters and EMS personnel immediately provided emergency medical aid to Hudson. He was transported to Custer Regional Hospital where resuscitation efforts continued but were not successful.

Hudson was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

July, 2019

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ALABAMA

PROVIDED

CHIEF RICKY PHILLIPS

Arab Waffle House Struck by Vehicle

Arab, AL - Emergency responders in Arab responded to a vehicle versus building on Saturday, June 1st on North Brindlee Mountain Parkway. On arrival, personnel discovered that a vehicle had left the highway, drove through the Waffle House and came to rest on the other side of the building. No one was injured in the early morning accident, which is being investigated by the Arab Police Department.

PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month� feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Fultondale Fire Department, located in Jefferson County, AL.

Family of Four Killed on Alabama Highway 67 Joppa, AL - On Monday, June 3rd a family of four was killed when the vehicle they were driving in crossed over into the southbound lane and hit a log truck on Alabama Highway 67, located just south of Joppa in Cullman County. Two adults, ages 41 and 23, and two children, ages two and four, were pronounced dead at the scene by the Cullman County Coroner. Highway 67 was closed for several hours while Alabama State Troopers investigated the scene. The driver of the log truck was injured and transported by ambulance to a local hospital for evaluation.

Bob Long

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

PAULDING COUNTY EMA

(Back Row, L to R): Amanda Corn, Greg Corn, Anthony Clonts, Ryan Fleeman, Paul Poss, Wayne Sonnevelt, John N. Morgan, Dakota Smith, Chip Boyd, Timothy Payne, Eric Eberly, Aaron McMichen, Brandon LaDue, Doug Edwards, Charles Caprio, Michelle Boyce and Shannon Caprio. (Front Row, L to R): Tiffany Clark, Tonia Johnson, Zinna Swann and Nicole McMichen.

BARROW COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES

Lightning Simultaneously Sparks Two House Fires in Auburn Auburn, GA - A fast-moving thunderstorm generated lightning that caused two residential structure fires in the same subdivision on Friday afternoon, June 7th.

Barrow County Emergency Services communications officers were alerted to the report of a house fire in the 400 block of Nicole Court around 4:45 P.M. Within seconds, another call came in for a house fire in the 400 block of Lisa Circle, which is one street over in the same Oakcrest neighborhood.

Crews from all stations responded to the area. First arriving fire units reported light smoke and flames coming from the roof line of the first residence. One adult was home at the time but had already exited the structure. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and additional incoming crews were diverted to the second location.

At the second house, heavy smoke and fire was seen coming from the attic space at the back of the residence. The residents of this home were out of town at the time, so firefighters forced entry into the home and made their way upstairs to attack the fire.

“The fire at the Lisa Circle location proved to be a tricky one.

The design of the attic and roof line made for multiple small areas that allowed the fire to run and “hide”.

Our crews did a great job of accessing these limited access areas by opening holes in the ceiling and walls to expose and extinguish the fire,” said Steve Rose, Public Infor-

JUMP TO FILE #061019105 mation Officer.

A Barrow County fire investigator determined that both fires were the result of lighting strikes.

Several neighbors reported lightning and loud “booms” immediately prior to the discovery of the fires. On Lisa Circle, a neighbor’s dog alerted homeowners that something wasn’t right. In witness statements, the neighbor reported that their dog “started acting weird and barking at the window,” and that was when she looked out and saw the neighbor’s house on fire.

No injuries were reported.

Three cats were removed without incident from the second home and left in the care of a neighbor.

There was light damage to the home on Nicole Ct. and heavy smoke, fire and water damage to the back and roof of the home on Lisa Circle, but fire crews were able to locate and contain that fire and save much of the structure and contents. After the fires were extinguished and all hazards removed, crews secured and protected parts of the homes with tarps to prevent further damage from rain until homeowners can get repairs done.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that lightning strikes are responsible for an estimated 22,600 fires annually.

- STEVE ROSE

Paulding County EMA Gains 21 New Volunteers in CERT Program Dallas, GA – The Paulding County Emergency Management Agency recently held its third Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Training Course, with 21 new members successfully completing the training requirements and application process to hold a position on the team.

Training included classroom study and performance exercises in the following topics: disaster preparedness, CERT organization, disaster psychology, light search and rescue, fire safety, terrorism and disaster medical operations.

These blocks of instruction were delivered on week day evenings in May at the Paulding County Emergency Operations Center.

Graduates of the CERT Basic

JUMP TO FILE #060519106 Training Course include: Michelle Boyce, Chip Boyd, Charles Caprio, Shannon Caprio, Tiffany Clark, Anthony Clonts, Amanda Corn, Greg Corn, Eric Eberly, Doug Edwards, Ryan Fleeman, Tonia Johnson, Brandon LaDue, Aaron McMichen, Nicole McMichen, John N. Morgan, Timothy Payne, Paul Poss, Dakota Smith, Wayne Sonnevelt and Zinna Swann.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security promote the CERT Programs nationally as part of the Presidents Citizen Corps. FEMA supports

CERT through grant funding and sponsoring train the trainer and program manager courses for members of the fire, medical and emergency management community.

Paulding County EMA started its CERT Program in 2016 to assist with shelter management operations, search and rescue of missing persons, Skywarn storm spotter participation, and disaster recovery operations such as tornado or flooding events. CERT volunteers also assist with first-aid, information, lost/found property, suspicious activity monitoring, and general safety at community events such as parades, festivals, and fireworks events.

- PAULDING COUNTY EMA

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.

FRANK ROBINSON

City of Pooler, GA Fire-Rescue operates this 2016 Pierce Enforcer 100' Tiller, designated as Truck 61.

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PAGE 10

July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

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.

WRFD Engine 3's crew dropping lines.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Atlanta Engine 13 first-in at the scene of an apartment building fire, May 10th.

Warner Robins Crews Respond to Fatal House Fire Warner Robins, GA - The City of Warner Robins Fire Department was alerted around 8:00 A.M. on March 31st to 121 Hazel Drive for a house fire with flames visible and possible entrapment.

The Houston County 911 Communications Center began receiving multiple calls reporting a male

JUMP TO FILE #051119115 possibly still inside the fully involved home.

WRFD Brush 1 was first on scene and reported heavy fire in a one-story residential structure. En-

gine 3 was next in and dropped LDH with crews pulling multiple handlines for fire extinguishment.

Once the fire was knocked down, firefighters found an 84year-old male deceased in the front room.

- SHANE SHIFFLETT

PROVIDED BY MATT ROBISON

DeKalb County Fire-Rescue Co. 15 at the scene of a fire alarm in the apartment behind the unit.

Warner Robins Fire Department Ladder 2 en route.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

WRFD firefighters enter the home for victim rescue.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

PROVIDED

St. Marys Fire Department Open House a Success St. Marys, GA - The second annual community open house was held at St. Marys Fire Department headquarters Station 2 on Saturday, April 6th. The event was a huge success, with over 450 people in attendance.

Adults and children alike were able to witness a staged live working ‘structure’ fire from inception all the way through to extinguishment. Chief Robby Horton explained the basic details of fighting fire and reiterated many important fire safety measures, including the importance of working smoke alarms.

Attendees were also able to watch vehicle extrication, practice discharging/flowing water from a fire hose, learn how to maneuver through a firefighter obstacle course and observe demonstrations of, and learn information about, life-saving CPR. They had the opportunity to talk to and ask

JUMP TO FILE #041519111 questions of the Fire Chiefs, firefighters, local law enforcement agencies and Camden County Emergency Management staff.

Young people enjoyed a bouncy house and face painting!

And since firefighters know all about (and enjoy immensely) eating good food, there was plenty available for everyone including pizza, sandwiches of all kinds and homemade hand churned ice cream!

The staff of St. Marys Fire Department would like to thank the members of the community for attending the open house and making this much anticipated event successful.

- CISSY KELLEY

PROVIDED

July, 2019

PAGE 11

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Arson Deemed Cause of Two-Alarm Structure Fire in Atlanta

Atlanta, GA - Just after 10:15 A.M. on May 10th, the City of Atlanta FD was alerted to the Forest Cove Apartments on New Town Circle for an apartment building fire with possible entrapment. First arriving crews encountered heavy fire conditions from the second floor apartment, prompting command to request a second-alarm assignment. Firefighters threw ground ladders and made interior searches, but found no occupants. Atlanta Fire Investigators quickly determined that the fire was set intentionally and later arrested a 27-year-old woman who is facing a first-degree arson charge after she allegedly set the fire that damaged five apartments. The American Red Cross was on scene assisting 25 displaced occupants with lodging, clothing and food.

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.

BCES

BCES Places New Ambulance Into Service Winder, GA - Barrow County Emergency Services recently placed a new Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance into service. The ambulance, identified as Med 5, replaced an older unit that was reaching the end of its service life. The older, replaced unit will be kept in the fleet to serve as a reserve ambulance.

The new Med 5 is built on a Chevrolet chassis and is gasoline powered vs. the more traditional diesel fuel powered. “We made the decision to move to the gasoline engine platform instead of diesel in order to save on upfront and maintenance cost. We did a lot of research, and this is a shift we are seeing industry-wide as service

JUMP TO FILE #040119112 providers move towards more efficient and cost-effective vehicles,” said Chief Alan Shuman. The apparatus meets the specifications of all other ambulances currently used by BCES and was built in Georgia by Custom Truck and Body Works based in Woodbury, GA. Like all ALS ambulances in the BCES fleet, Med 5 carries all the equipment necessary to provide advanced level pre-hospital care, including a cardiac monitor, advanced airway tools, pharmaceuticals, and a crew consisting of a Paramedic and an EMT.

Med 5 was officially placed into service on March 21, 2019 with a traditional “Push-In” ceremony, and is based at Station 5 on Hwy 211 NW. While it has the possibility to run medical and fire calls anywhere in the county, its “first-due” area of coverage is the northwestern portion of the county.

“We’d like to thank the Barrow Board of Commissioners and the citizens of Barrow County for allocating the funds needed for this purchase. This new Med Unit allows us to continue to provide the highest level of care to the county, and we look forward to many years of service from it,” said Chief Shuman.

- STEVE ROSE

FERMAN TYLER - FIRE CHIEF/EMD

This patch belongs to Bloomingdale Fire Department, located in Chatham County, GA.

BCES

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

GEORGIA

Barrow County Prepares for Mass Casualty Event in Regional Drill Barrow County, GA - “Units, be enroute to an active shooter...” No Public Safety official ever wants to hear those words, but in May, Barrow County Emergency Services communications officers paged out units to a scene with mul- JUMP TO FILE# tiple people injured. 050619131 Thankfully, this was only part of a scheduled drill to assess the readiness of fire, EMS and law enforcement. Upon arrival, crews found multiple “victims”, complete with fake blood and wounds, realistically played by students from Lanier Tech’s Fire Science program and Barrow County CERT members.

This exercise was carried out at

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the Barrow County Sheriff’s Office shooting range and was part of a simultaneous multi-county exercise held in numerous counties throughout NE Georgia. The scenario for the Barrow County exercise involved two shooters in a location where numerous people were gathered.

Responding units had to physically remove patients from the hostile environment, organize patients by severity of injury, and make transport decisions just like they would on a real call. The drill continued at local hospitals as doctors and nurses from Northeast Georgia Medical CenterBarrow received multiple “patients”.

Barrow County EMA Director Penny Clack said, “Realistic training scenarios like this help us to judge our readiness for mass casualty events, and develop policies for responding to these high risk/low frequency events. Overall, we were pleased with our response and will continue to modify our procedures to be as prepared as possible should the unthinkable ever happen here.”

Participating agencies included Barrow County Emergency Services (Fire, EMS, EMA and 911), Barrow County Sheriff’s Office, Air Evac and Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow. Assistance was also provided

by Monroe Police Department.

- STEVE ROSE

BARROW COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES

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.

PAYMENT METHOD

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Bad Call

By Mike Scardino Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522=8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price $27.00

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Bad Call

DeKalb County, GA - DeKalb County Firefighter Truett Stokes at the Central Georgia Firefighters Stair Climb, held in April. Truett was one of over 100 firefighters that climbed 110 flights of stairs.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

This is a 6” x 9” hard cover book with 304 pages. It is a group of memoirs of the author, who worked part time in the late 1960’s on a New York City ambulance in the boro of Queens in order to help pay his tuition in college. There are 43 chapters, plus acknowledgements, and I

can certainly tell you that the title very much gives justice to the majority of these calls.

If you, the reader, ever ponders the idea of wanting to work on an ambulance (that does emergency calls), read this book and realize what real life is, both on the streets and behind closed doors in the homes and workplaces of these patients!

For 24 years I worked both part time in EMS and for a few years answered first responder calls with my fire department, and just when you thought you saw the worst, you eventually see something even more worse! If you thought you had problems, ride an ambulance and see other people’s problems. Then, your own will become less in comparison.

This book is not for the weak, especially if you empathize with the author and the situations faced.

He also writes about his different partners with reference to the personalities, skills and stamina.

This is not a book you would want to put down because each chapter is exciting in its own way!

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July, 2019

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Two-Alarm Fire Destroys Crystal Bar in Pasco County Pasco County, FL - Pasco County Fire Rescue assisted Zephyrhills Fire Rescue on a twoalarm fire at the Crystal Bar on Gall Blvd. on May 2nd.

At approximately 11:30 A.M., Zephyrhills Fire re- JUMP TO FILE# ceived a call of a 050619130 commercial structure fire at the Crystal Bar. Upon arrival, ZFD reported heavy fire through the roof of the bar.

Zephyrhills Fire requested mutual aid from Pasco County Fire Rescue.

Firefighters started their initial fire attack, but were forced to evacuate the bar as the roof started to fail.

It took firefighters approximately two hours to get the fire under control. There were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

- COREY DIERDORFF

PASCO COUNTY FD

Vehicle News

CHUCK LOWE

Fort Lauderdale Engine 8 is a 2018 Sutphen Monarch and is the first apparatus from this manufacturer in the city. The rig features a QTWO 1500-GPM 6� suction two stage pump with a 750-gallon water tank. There is also a FoamPro 3012 system with a 40-gallon foam tank.

RAY BRIANT, BATTALION CHIEF/BSFR

BSFR Fights Early Morning House Fire

CHUCK LOWE

Flagler County Fire Rescue 92, located at the County Airport, has placed this 2018 Ford F450/Osage into service.

Broward County, FL - Just before 6:00 A.M. on May 12th, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue received a call for a residential house fire located at 2721 NW 9th Court. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with heavy smoke and flames issuing from every single window of the single-story unattached duplex. The fire was so intense that any contents inside the home were completely burned and unrecognizable. Given the advanced conditions when firefighters arrived, it appears that the fire may have gone unwitnessed for a period of time before being reported. About 20 firefighters responded to the scene and contained the fire to the single structure. No injuries were reported. While the abandoned home was unoccupied when firefighters arrived on the scene, information was revealed that there may have possibly been squatters occupying the structure prior to their arrival.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

Insanity Defined Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

There are different definitions of insanity. Webster’s describes it as “a severely disordered state of the mind usually occurring as a specific disorder”, or for legal “unsoundness of mind or lack of the ability to understand that prevents one from having the mental capacity required by law to enter into a particular relationship, status, or transaction or that releases one from criminal or civil responsibility”. There are people who define insanity as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. That quote has been credited to so many different people I will not even try to give the credit.

The version that I think we have heard when we joined the fire service is that insanity is being a firefighter. When there is a burning building and all the rats and roaches are running out, we are the ones running in. And we do that willingly.

We have many self-destructive tendencies, according to the public. We willingly put ourselves into situations that people do not want to see, or acknowledge that they even exist. We have seen people who did not survive fires, all ages. We have seen people mangled up in car wrecks.

We have responded to calls with our Brothers and Sisters as the victims. We have responded to calls at our loved one’s houses.

And we do this because we have the skill set that is required.

We have said “hello” to emergency services and “Goodbye” to the age of innocence. We at times take on so much that it affects us.

Maybe not at the scene, or the next one, or the next, but we forget that stress affects us cumulatively. How many of us may have the whiff of a smell that brings us to a bad call? You know the smell that brings you back.

Do you avoid certain parts of town or certain holiday celebrations? I recall on Christmas morning, when I first joined, we had a house fire at about 0800 hours and the house was fully engulfed.

We found out after the fire that

the homeowner perished within three-feet of the door.

We need to find ways to correctly process these thoughts and memories. I have recently spoken with someone who found a member of his station dead in their station, apparently by his own hands.

The person who told me this still told it with tears in his eyes, but he was able to deal with it.

When a life is taken, so much is lost, so much knowledge, humor, love. If we look at it from one side, the person has spent so much time in training and has so much experience that it would be a shame to lose all of that. But the human side of me says, that was someone with a family, mom, dad, brother, uncle, aunt, sister, son, daughter, instructor, mentor, friend, Brother, Sister, someone that we may have answered many calls with. What is that person worth to you? Would you be willing to open up your mouth to help them? Are you willing to ask them what is wrong, when they do not look or act right?

I had a friend who died a while back. He always taught that the human needs a certain amount of hugs a day to thrive. I forgot what the number was. Does it really matter? We all need human contact, a sign of affection. Are you willing to let someone cry on your shoulders? Do you have someone that is close enough that if you need to cry, that you can cry on their shoulders? Don’t worry, you do not have to do it in front of a crowd, if you are not comfortable.

I had someone tell me that their father said that real men don’t cry and that he was never allowed to talk about the problem. Wow, the father basically cursed the son for thirty years. I gave him the safe zone to talk about it. He cried on my shoulders, first time in thirty years. Do you how much that helped and started him in his healing process.

It is okay to hang up your Superman cape, once in a while, so that you take care of yourself.

Maybe you need to talk with a peer, a chaplain, a crisis team member, a crisis line, or a psychologist or social worker. It’s okay.

Your family will thank you. You will thank you. Please take care of it instead of picking up the bottle or something worse.

Please stay safe, Didymus McHugh Didymus-mchugh.com

PAGE 17

July, 2019

FLORIDA

CIRONE PHOTOS

The Sea Tow attempts to up-right the helicopter.

Close Call for Two Pilots in Paradise Manatee County, FL - People on jet skis and boats were enjoying a beautiful day along the intracoastal waterway when a helicopter suddenly came crashing down into the water shortly after noon on April 14th.

The BOATPIX.COM helicopter is usually a common sight taking photos of jet skis and boats, but for unknown reasons that day the Robinson 22 came down hard, bouncing off the water. On the second bounce, the rotor blades made contact with the water just

JUMP TO FILE #041419111 off Coquina Beach and caused the helicopter to turn upside down.

A jet skier along with numerous boats saw what happened and made their way to the crash site where they found the pilot and copilot surfacing with inflated life vests. The Manatee County Sheriff's Marine Unit along with the U.S. Coast Guard, West Manatee Fire Rescue, and Beach Rescue

Units also responded to the crash site.

On arrival, the Manatee County Sheriff's Marine unit towed the boat back to Coquina's boat ramp to clear the waterway.

Both the pilot and co-pilot were checked out at the scene and released. The scene was then turned over to Sea Tow to retrieve the helicopter for investigation by the FAA. - WILLIE CIRONE

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

Join the Heroes Team!

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877-541-HERO

CHUCK LOWE

Dunedin District 60 responds in this 2016 Ford Expedition that sports the department's new silver-overred color scheme.

PAGE 18

July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES

FLORIDA

INK INK

1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

OCALA FIRE RESCUE

First Responders Receive Trauma Star Award After Split-Second Decision Saves Newborn’s Life

This tattoo belongs to Daniel Pfeiffer, a 44-year member and past chief of Delran Fire Dept. Station #232 in Delran, NJ. The four helmets in the tattoo represent the four generations of firefighters in his family. "I'm the son of a past station chief, the grandson of a past Delanco fire chief, and my son is currently an engineer with the Lexington Fire Dept. in Lexington, South Carolina," said Daniel.

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

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

Email: captainmrossi@gmail.com

Ocala, FL - Two Ocala Fire Rescue (OFR) responders and two Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) members were recognized for their life-saving actions at an Ocala Regional Medical Center (ORMC) meeting held in March.

Dr. Darwin Ang, Medical Director of Trauma Services for ORMC, presented the Trauma Star Award to OFR Paramedic Ashley

JUMP TO FILE #032919108 Andrews and EMT Timothy Herff, as well as MCFR Paramedic Matthew Kaizer and EMT Cameron Lane. During his presentation, Dr. Ang praised the first responder’s quick judgment calls.

The four individuals were nom-

inated for this award after responding to a motor vehicle accident which resulted in an emergency Csection. Thanks to the crews’ rapid intervention, both the mother and child avoided what could have been a precarious situation and are doing well.

- OCALA FIRE RESCUE

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

LAKE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

On May 2nd, Lake County Fire Rescue Chief Jim Dickerson adopted a 4-year-old Schnauzer from the Lake County Animal Shelter. His new furry friend, affectionately named “Chief,” is described as being laid-back, sweet and reserved.

July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

PAGE 19

FLORIDA

CIRONE PHOTOS

City of Bradenton Takes in Pin Job Bradenton, FL - The city was already dealing with numerous emergency calls on June 1st when the report of an MVA involving a tandem dump truck and midsize car at Manatee and 28th Street East was dispatched. Additional callers reported that an elderly woman was trapped in the car and that the truck was leaking diesel fuel. The roadway was shut down due to the fuel covering the eastbound lanes while the woman was extricated and transported by Manatee County EMS. Southern Manatee Fire and Rescue's Haz-Mat Team was called in to assist with the fuel leak.

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ARMOR-TUFF FLOORS, DIVISION OF ARMORPOXY sales@armor-tuff.com • www.armor-tuff.com • 855-72FLOOR

PAGE 20

July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

Fish in Foil; yes it’s exactly what it sounds like...

FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

CIRONE PHOTOS

Brush Fire in Southern Manatee Fire District

Oneco, FL - Southern Manatee Fire/Rescue was dispatched to a smoke condition at the corner of 15th St. East and 57th Ave. on the afternoon of April 30th. Once on scene a plume of smoke could be seen coming from the wooded area that is also a known area for homeless colonies. Firefighters were hampered by thick vegetation along with high temperatures and low relative humidity as well as a steady wind. Two brush trucks from East Manatee Fire District assisted with the incident. There were no reported injuries and the fire is under investigation.

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING

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

“I will have the dry, flavorless fish please,” said no one ever.

With high-heat, dry methods such as grilling and sautéing, you run the risk of overcooking your protein, especially delicate fish.

Cooking in foil is actually derived from the French technique of cooking called “en papillote”, or as it is known in Italian, “al cartoccio”. Essentially it means food cooked in a parcel or package, traditionally made from parchment paper.

To make this a little more “firehouse friendly” we forego the intricate technique of folding parchment and instead use plain ol’ aluminum foil for its ease of sealing. By cooking the ingredi-

ents this way, you are essentially creating a fast cooking, high-heat steam environment, which is perfect for delicate proteins like fish and shrimp. The one downside to this technique is the inability to periodically check on your food to see if it is cooked because of the sealed package, so it may take a few tries for you to figure out this technique.

The other plus side of cooking this way is less cleanup, which is perfect for the firehouse. All your ingredients, aside from any accompaniment like rice or potatoes, are cooked in foil which gets tossed at the end of the meal. Your crew will definitely thank you for that! And while this recipe calls for the package being cooked in an oven, you could definitely use the grill instead. Just use indirect heat by lighting half of the grill on high and placing the packages over the “cool” side; this is perfect for the summer.

With this technique you have to keep in mind the fast cooking

time, so any aromatics or vegetables you add should be quick cooking or cut small and thin enough so that they will cook in time. With vegetables like carrots, bell peppers and celery, the preferred cut would be a julienne (thin strips) or diced (smaller than chopped). While I like to add a little white wine, you can use just water, citrus juice or even stock.

This liquid, while not necessary, will help create a steam environment, along with the steam given off by your other ingredients.

Use your imagination when deciding what flavors you are looking for. A simple combination that works well is butter, garlic and lemon, perfect for sole or shrimp. Thin sliced fennel and orange works great with salmon, for a dinner high in Omega-3’s! Either way, the important thing to remember is to have fun and learn from your mistakes, although this one is pretty hard to mess up! Stay safe, eat well!

FISH IN FOIL WITH CHERRY TOMATOES, LEMON AND CAPERS Serves 4

Ingredients:

4 six-ounce Hake Fillets (Striped Bass, Sole, Trout or any flaky white fish work well) Small package of Cherry Tomatoes 1 Lemon, thin sliced Small Jar of Capers in Brine, drained Handful Fresh Parsley Salt Extra Virgin Olive Oil Splash of White Wine (optional) Aluminum Foil Lt. Heather Love of Volusia County Fire Rescue joined the Hazardous Materials Team in 2004. Love became a certified IAFF 160 hazardous materials technician, a Florida State certified technician and managed the team’s logistics. As the logistics officer, she handled grant programs as well.

In 2007, she was promoted to the position of deputy team leader and managed the cost reimbursement program and planning grant. She is now team leader of HazMat.

VOLUSIA COUNTY FIRE RESCUE

Love is a hazardous materials instructor and assists with the annual Hazardous Materials Symposium. This year, she became the Region 5 representative for the Florida Association of Hazardous Materials Responders.

Love holds an associate's degree in fire science and a bachelor’s degree in homeland security, and is currently enrolled in a master’s degree program in emergency services management.

Procedure:

-Preheat oven to 500°F or as high as it will go.

-Tear off 4 pieces of foil, large enough to fit each fillet with plenty of extra room. Season the fillets well with salt and place on the foil. Fold up the sides of the foil so the ingredients stay put. Drizzle the fish with enough olive oil to cover most of the bottom of

the foil. Evenly distribute the lemon slices on top of the fish, followed by the tomatoes, capers and parsley sprigs. Sprinkle with a pinch more of salt and add a splash of white wine if using. Fold the sides of the foil in and seal well. Place on a tray or sheet pan and

put in the oven. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. This will depend on the thickness and type of fish. If you open the packet and it still looks raw, carefully seal back up and cook longer.

AJ FUSCO

*This recipe and technique also works well on the grill!

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

July, 2019

PAGE 21

FLORIDA

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.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Fast-Moving Fire Rips Through Whitfield Auto Repair Shop

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Fort Lauderdale Fire Department, located in Broward County, FL.

Whitfield, FL - As the first hot work day of the year was coming to an end on April 29th, things heated up for the Southern Manatee Fire & Rescue District when firefighters were dispatched to a commercial fire on 33rd Street East. As units responded they reported a large column of black smoke showing in the area. Firefighters arrived and found a well involved Auto Repair Shop, prompting a second-alarm to be struck. The building was constructed with corrugated metal walls and roof which hampered firefighting efforts. Two workers were treated for what was reported as minor burn injuries. The area around the fire was filled with clutter such as parts, vehicles, boats and RV's, some which also caught fire and made advancement of hose lines difficult. Cedar Hammock Fire District and Manatee County EMS assisted.

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

STEPHEN SABO

Town of Lake Park Holds FirstEver "Battle of the Badges" Lake Park, FL - The Town of Lake Park recently held its firstever "Battle of the Badges" kickball game, with Palm Beach County Fire/Rescue firefighters versus Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office deputies. The trash talk before the game was pretty evident; something about tasers and hoses being brandished. However, when it was all said and done the firefighters outgunned the deputies 9-1. Static displays from both departments were featured for the community to learn about what each does and there were also areas set up for the kids to play in. Everyone had a great time and the two teams are already looking forward to next year's event.

CHUCK LOWE

West Palm Beach Engine 7's crew, (L to R): FF Kerrigan, Captain Rosenberg and FF Galvez.

PAGE 22

July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

FLORIDA

STILL IN SERVICE

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

Members of Avalon Fire Rescue participate in weekly training. The driver trainees practice their pump and water shuttle operations with a few of the district's oldest fire apparatus. At 30-years-old, these trucks are still operational and in great shape.

J. STEPHENSON

MICHAEL KANE, PIO

BSFR Responds to Multi-Vehicle Accident

Reedy Creek FD (Walt Disney World) still runs this 1986 E One 6x6 250/250 60' Aerial.

FRANK ROBINSON

Broward County, FL - At approximately 10:00 A.M. on May 31st, BSO deputies and BSFR firefighters responded to a crash involving a semi-trailer, dump truck and Ford Escape. All vehicles collided at the intersection of McIntosh Rd. and Eller Dr., near the entrance of Port Everglades.

After colliding, the dump truck flipped onto its side. The driver was transported to Broward Health with minor injuries. The driver of the Ford had to be extricated from the vehicle and was transported to Broward Health, also with minor injuries. The driver of the semi-trailer did not require medical treatment. Approximately 100-gallons of diesel fuel had leaked from the dump truck onto the roadway, however Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue's HazMat team was successful in mitigating the hazard and prevented any environmental threats.

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

July, 2019

PAGE 23

FLORIDA

CLERMONT FD

City of Clermont FD Holds Badge Pinning & Promotional Ceremony

FLFR COURTESY

A 10-foot flame can be seen during burn-off procedure.

Hillsboro Beach Residents Awakened by HazMat Incident Hillsboro Beach, FL - Residents in the small community of Hillsboro Beach awoke on the morning of May 29th to a spectacular sight; a 10-foot flame shooting into the air.

That was the scene when Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue and Fort Lauderdale Hazardous Materials Teams responded to the Port de Mer Condominium located at 1237 Hillsboro Mile.

The Hillsboro Beach Police Department requested the response from firefighters after a police officer smelled gas in the area just before 6:00 A.M. This prompted a full hazardous materials response. When firefighters arrived to investigate they identified that the source of the leak was a malfunctioning gas relief valve attached to a 1,000-gallon underground tank.

A relief valve is designed to activate when gases from pressurized containers or tanks reach or are near harmful pressures. It appears that in this case the warm

Clermont, FL - The City of Clermont FD held a Badge Pinning and Promotional Ceremony on April 24th to recognize personnel over a 12-month period who were hired in the position of Fire Captain and Plans Examiner, appointed Fire & Life Safety Educator and promoted after a competitive process in the rank of Assistant Chief, Fire Marshal, Lieutenant and Engineer. Pictured (L to R): Engineer John Savelli, Engineer Jacob Greenwell, Lt. Jimmy Pacheco, Lt. Bruce Wisniewski, Engineer Blake McCorkle, Fire Marshal Jennifer Pierce, Fire Plans Examiner Frank Patterson, Fire & Life Safety Educator Sarah Jones, Engineer Jorge Pallisso, Fire Capt. Lindsay Judah, Engineer David Barragan, Lt. Luke Brear, Lt. Wayne Nichols, Engineer Billy Whitaker, Engineer Jeff Brimmer and Assistant Chief Bill Harrison were joined by family, friends and city members for the ceremony.

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

JUMP TO FILE #060319101 weather expanded the gas pressures inside the vessel, causing the relief valve to actuate, as it should. Unfortunately however, the valve did not re-seat and continued to leak propane gas.

Firefighters were forced to conduct a gas burn-off where the remnants of gas inside the tank are attached to a flare stack and lit aflame, which safely controls the release of gas and prevents an uncontrolled, spontaneous ignitionwhich is extremely dangerous.

Once firefighters completed the burn-off, the faulty valve was replaced without further incident.

About a dozen apartments had been temporarily evacuated as a precaution, but no injuries were reported. A1A was closed in both directions and reopened once the hazard was completely mitigated.

- MICHAEL KANE

CHRIS DILLEY

Duval County, FL - Firefighters from the 125th Fighter Wing Florida Air National Guard and the State of Florida MCA Fire Department attended an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) annual refresher training course at the Fire Academy of the South on April 3rd. The training involved multiple scenarios to include fire extinguishers, search & rescue, hose line management, and ARFF vehicle operations.

Props were utilized during the training including the fuselage of a decommissioned 727 airliner and an aircraft fire trainer capable of simulating aircraft fires. Pictured are firefighters using a wheeled 150-lb. dry chemical extinguisher on a pressure fueled fire.

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July, 2019

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE