1st Responder Texas Spring

The Texas Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

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SPRING, 2016

NO INJURIES AT AUSTIN STRUCTURE FIRE

BATTALION CHIEF ROB BREDAHL

A house fire on the afternoon of February 17, 2016, in NW Austin resulted in $430,000 in structural damage and $200,000 in content damage. Thankfully, no one was injured, but five people are now displaced since the home is a total loss.

- See full story on page 8

LOOK INSIDE FOR THE 1ST RESPONDER 2016 FDIC PREVIEW SUPPLEMENT!

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com

Dallas Fire-Rescue Engine 4

WWW.SMITHBROTHERSFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM

SHERI HEMRICK, WWW.GOTPICTURES.US

Heartbreaking house fire Abilene Fire Department Station 1 runs with this Ferrera.

MIKE MILLER

Just outside of Hillsboro, Texas stood a 99 year old home, until the night of February 15th.

The home was listed as a Historical Site in Texas. It was known as the Lackawanna Ranch and was riginally built in 1917 by Doc Scofield.

Dr. Scofield was a doctor, rancher, and County Judge in Hill County. This is the second time a home has burned on the site. The home was empty and awaiting renovations at the time of the fire.

JUMP TO FILE #021716103 A passerby reported the fire, and by the time the first fire department arrived, the structure was fully engulfed. Former residents and owners of the house gathered around during the fire and shared stories of growing up in the house.

Responding departments were Hillsboro, Itasca, Covington, Blum, Grandview, Woodbury,

Bynum, Abbott and Peoria.

Hillsboro’s ladder truck was used to extinguish the fire, while other trucks were used to extinguish the fire in an unattached building.

Several tankers were used to keep Hillsboro’s ladder truck filled. First call went out at 8:58 p.m., and the last firefighters left the scene at 6:00 a.m. the next morning.

- SHERI HEMRICK

WWW.SMITHBROTHERSFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM

Texarkana Fire Department runs with this Pierce as Quint 1

JASON EVANS

Two alarm fire tapped out in Dallas On the afternoon of Feb. 8th, Dallas Fire-Rescue, along with the Mesquite, Seagoville and Dallas County Fire Departments responded collectively to a fire in and around a mobile home park at 15200 Budeudy Drive. What began as a single mobile home on fire, quickly spread, as a result of the high winds (NW 20-29 mph), to three adjacent mobile homes and some nearby brush. Operations were ongoing for quite some time as firefighters from all agencies continue working to put out all the flames. There were no reported injuries. The fire cause is still under investigation.

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Spring, 2016

Crews knock down fire in Watauga house

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FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

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Watauga, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, and Keller Fire Departments worked a house fire on Murel Drive on March 14th.

Watauga units were busy on an EMS call initially, so neighboring JUMP TO FILE North Richland #032816120 Hills and Haltom City were able to arrive first.

Watauga and Keller were not too far behind, and all crews worked together to knock down the fire in the one story house.

On a bright note, a dog that hid out in the backyard was returned to it’s owner by North Richland Hills Battalion Chief Rainwater, who received a gracious hug.

15

Raymond James Red Knights

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

9

19

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 2 No. 1 - Texas edition is published quarterly, 4 times a year for $15 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore St., New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or erA division of: rors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

TEXAS TASK FORCE 1

Flooding in Deweyville Deweyville, TX. Members of Texas Task Force 1 from the Austin Fire Department assisted in evacuations from record flooding in East Texas recently.

ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos you would like to see in our Antique Apparatus feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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This 1923 Southern (500 gpm) once ran with the Dallas Fire Department.

Lieutenant Carrie Stewart, the Class 118 coordinator, was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after the class started in May 2015. She was out for treatment for more than a month. Upon her return to work, she was presented with this Halligan tool, which is on stage at today's graduation. It was carried by the cadets during everything they did while she was out. Every day, the Team Leaders and cadets would send Lt. Stewart a picture of the entire class doing something with the Halligan to show their support for her.

As you can see, it's been symbolically decorated with colored cords. The cadets came up with this gesture from their experience with military traditions. And we're happy to tell you that she is winning the fight over breast cancer!

Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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Spring, 2016

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COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Henry Campbell (Staying Safe) Lori Hodgkinson (FF Fitness) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf, Video) CORRESPONDENTS

Christian Bove • Pat Canales • Michelle DeCrane Jason Evans • Deborah Foster

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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

North Carolina: Joshua Woods, 24 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: January 12, 2016 Death Date: January 12, 2016 Fire Department: Siler City Fire Department Initial Summary: While driving his personal vehicle in response to an emergency call, Firefighter Woods lost control causing the car to crash. Firefighter Woods passed away from the injuries he sustained in the vehicle accident.

Wyoming: Clarence "Speed" Hartbank, 79 Rank: Deputy Chief Incident Date: September 10, 2015 Death Date: January 13, 2016 Fire Department: Fremont County Fire District Initial Summary: On September 10, 2015, Deputy Chief Clarence "Speed" Hartbank fell approximately 15 feet through the ceiling of a bunker while fighting a grass and structure fire in rural Fremont County, near Lander, Wyoming. Hartbank suffered second and third degree burns over 38 percent of his body, seven broken ribs and a punctured lung. Hartbank was flown to Swedish Medical Center in Colorado and went through numerous surgeries in the months since the incident. On January 13, 2016, Hartbank passed away at the Swedish Medical Center from the injuries he sustained.

Ohio: Scott D. Bruggeman, 45 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 18, 2014 Death Date: January 18, 2016 Fire Department: Middletown Division of Fire Initial Summary: On March 18, 2014, Firefighter Scott D. Bruggeman suffered a heart attack while restraining an uncooperative patient in the Atrium Medical Center emergency room. Bruggeman was subsequently diagnosed with sarcoidosis and underwent several heart surgeries. After the last surgery which occurred in November 2015, Bruggeman was placed in hospice care. On January 18, 2016, Firefighter Bruggeman passed away from injuries sustained.

Arkansas: Ronald Jason Adams, 29 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: January 22, 2016 Death Date: January 22, 2016 Fire Department: East Pulaski County Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Adams was shot and killed by a resident at the scene of an emergency medical response call. Investigation of the fatal incident continues by local and state authorities.

North Carolina: James R. Varnell, 53 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: February 2, 2016 Texas: Richard J. Cano, 35 Death Date: February 2, 2016 Rank: Firefighter Fire Department: Bakertown Volunteer Fire Incident Date: November 22, 2015 Department Death Date: November 29, 2015 Initial Summary: Firefighter Varnell was at the fire Fire Department: Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Dedepartment attending training. As Varnell was partment Initial Summary: Firefighter Richard J. Cano preparing to depart, he became ill and fellow reworked a 24-hour shift from 0600hrs on November, sponders quickly came to his aid with basic life sup21, 2015, to 0600hrs on November 22, 2015. During port measures. As more assistance arrived, advanced that shift, Cano responded to three incidents. Cano life support was provided as Varnell was transported was dispatched with Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Depart- to the hospital where he succumbed to a nature and ment's Engine 1 to the last of these incidents, a three- cause of injury still to be determined. alarm apartment fire, at 0138hrs and cleared the scene at 0345hrs. At the end of his shift at 0600hrs, Connecticut: James J. Butler, Jr. , 50 Cano returned home and went to sleep. At 0845hrs Rank: Chief Driver that same day, Cano's wife observed him in distress Incident Date: February 7, 2016 and subsequently stop breathing. She immediately Death Date: February 7, 2016 called 911. Upon arrival, responders found Cano's Fire Department: Derby Fire Department wife performing CPR. Care was taken over by the Paugassett Hook & Ladder Company #4 ambulance crew and advanced life saving measures Initial Summary: Upon returning to the fire house were performed during transport to the hospital. from responding to a fire alarm activation with his Cano was turned over to a hospital emergency room fire company, Chief Driver Butler complained to felnurse with a pulse. He was in the hospital's intensive low firefighters that he did not feel well. While at care unit for a week, but never regained conscious- his residence several hours later, Butler succumbed ness. Firefighter Cano passed away on November to a nature and cause of illness still to be determined.

29, 2015, at 1930 hrs.

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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SAN ANTONIO FD

Congratulations to San Antonio Engine 28

BATTALION CHIEF ROB BREDAHL

No injuries at Austin structure fire

A house fire on the afternoon of Feb. 17 in NW Austin resulted in $430,000 in structural damage and $200,000 in content damage. Thankfully, no one was injured, but five people are now displaced since the home is a total loss. The cause is still under investigation.

Congratulations to Engine 28's A Shift. They were recognized by the San Antonio Chapter of the Texas Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) for their actions on December 28th during the Wedgwood fire.

The following is from their citation which accompanied their SAR Fire Safety/EMS Commendation Medal.

Engine 28 A Shift has distinguished itself and the San Antonio Fire Department through the actions of Captain Christopher M. Casals, Acting Engineer Omar E. Mercado, Firefighter Roland G. Castro, and Firefighter Christopher M. Fink on 28 December 2014.

Engine 28 was the first San Antonio Fire Department apparatus

JUMP TO FILE #112015109 on a mutual aid request by Castle Hills Fire Department at the Wedgewood Apartment Complex third alarm structure fire. Engine 28 arrived on the scene to find an 11 story geriatric apartment complex with multiple floors on fire and numerous residents in danger.

Engine 28 entered the burning structure and assumed Lobby Sector Command of the structure housing approximately 120 geriatric residents. From the lobby, Engine 28 was able to oversee the extrication of victims from the above floors and initial medical care for residents.

Firefighters Mercado, Castro

and Fink provided the hands on care to both victims and firefighters allowing for safe entry and egress.

They controlled the elevator and the alarm panel allowing for an organized and controlled effort.

Their professionalism brought order to a chaotic situation, allowing for a safe mitigation of the event. It is this commitment and dedication to Service and to Fire Safety that resonates from Engine 28A, Captain Casals and those he leads.

These actions reflect great credit on himself, the firemen serving on Engine 28, the San Antonio Fire Department and the Citizens of San Antonio.

- SAN ANTONIO FD

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

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The Texarkana Fire Department runs with this F-150 as Battalion 1

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Apparatus and personal vehicle response safety STAYING SAFE

Chief Henry Campbell

From dispatch to return to station at the conclusion of the incident, one must maintain a constant vigilance relative to a safe response, be it on apparatus or ones personal vehicle. Each year, firefighters/EMS personnel are killed in motor vehicle crashes with slightly under half of these deaths occurring while responding. I mention only deaths, but how many more were injured? How many civilian injuries and deaths? What was the loss in apparatus and operating expenses? How was the local responding departments insurance impacted? Response can be very deadly and very expensive.

Responding to the scene of an emergency, whether driving your personal vehicle or driving an emergency vehicle, requires careful thought and control in order to complete a safe response. In either response mode, you are of no value if you don’t arrive safely. You may further complicate the initial response if you are involved in your own emergency and will now require assistance!

The response begins with your size-up, the day of the week, time of day, weather conditions, and vehicle conditions. Is an alternate response route suggested due to prevailing conditions? Do you know where you are going? If not, find out before starting out as you will have other responsibilities and concerns, and the added anxiety that comes with not being sure of your destination will detract you from those responsibilities.

When responding in your personal vehicle remember you are not an Emergency Vehicle, rather just another vehicle sharing the road with no spe-

cial privileges. You must comply with all traffic regulations whether responding to the fire station or directly to the scene of the emergency. The blue light identifies you as a volunteer member of the Fire/EMS department responding to an emergency call. If the driver in front of you is kind enough to yield the right of way, be thankful, the next one may not. Be patient, no matter how important you think you are.

Responding with your personal vehicle or driving apparatus, do not pass through red traffic lights, stop signs, do not cross traffic lines or pass unsuspecting motorists, and do not exceed the speed limit. Yield at all yield signs and yield whenever the other driver fails to do so. Should there be a crash, you will be judged by what action you took to avoid the crash, even if you had the right of way. I am oft reminded of an old verse “Here lies the body of Robert Gray, He died maintaining his right of way, He is dead, just as dead, As if he had been wrong!”

Reckless driving of your personal vehicle or an emergency vehicle can lead to accidents, and accidents can lead to injury and death. No matter the consequences of injury and/or death, ultimately there will be lawsuits and trials and it is always more difficult than you think to exonerate yourself in a court of law.

Responding while driving an emergency vehicle includes all of the above, and requires additional considerations, skill, and proper mental attitude. Emergency apparatus drivers should be selected upon satisfactory completion of an emergency vehicle operators training program. Just because someone drives a truck for a living does not qualify him or her for a position as an emergency vehicle driver. Mental attitude is as equally important as mastering the driving skills. Some drivers get behind the

wheel of an emergency vehicle and think they “own the road,” driving to out race the speed of the siren. They are asking for trouble, an accident waiting to happen, a seat behind the steering wheel is not for them.

Emergency vehicle response requires maintaining the apparatus in good mechanical condition, all equipment secured and stored properly, and warning lights and audible sounding devices operating properly.

The response begins with dispatch, ensuring all personnel are onboard, in full protective gear, and all secured with seat belts, including you.

A slow, cautious exit from the station, which may require personnel to stop vehicular traffic in the street and if so, stopping for them to board and fasten seat belts.

Now as you begin your response with your valuable cargo, being alert and driving with caution will be your major concerns. Red warning lights must be on and you must be sounding an audible warning device to be in an Emergency Vehicle mode. Should the response not warrant “lights and siren” then, you are not considered an emergency vehicle and are required to comply with all traffic laws and regulations.

When responding as an Emergency Vehicle with “lights and siren,” you may cautiously violate some traffic regulations. You may cross traffic lines and lanes, pass through red traffic signals, and exceed the posted speed limit. My recommendation is DON’T. Never exceed the speed limit while responding; should you be involved in a crash, it will be used against you. Excessive speed does not help to reduce response time; it only increases the risk for crashes, resulting in injury and death. Always stop for red traffic lights and stop signs, looking in all directions before continuing ahead. Look twice!

Anticipate vehicles passing vehicles that have stopped to yield you the

right of way. Be alert for children playing and their increased excitement as you pass and the potential for them to do the unexpected. Scan all sides of the street for vehicles that may be entering the roadway from residential driveways, shopping malls, etc.

Almost everyone is in a hurry today with the radio blasting, preoccupied while they eat, drink, do their hair, read, talk on a cell phone or a myriad of other things. The one thing they may not be doing is paying attention to their driving, adding to your responsibilities for a safe response.

Upon your safe arrival at the scene of the emergency (turn your siren and unnecessary lights off!), locate your emergency vehicle according to need, department SOP’s, or as directed by an officer. If at all possible, try not to block the road unless that is the intent.

Additional apparatus/ambulances may be required and the closer to the scene they can locate, the more efficient. All apparatus should be chocked once at its final destination. Should you have re-

sponded to the scene in your personal vehicle; park it out of the way, preferably a half-block or more away.

Returning to quarters is done in full compliance with the traffic laws.

No lights, no sirens, and no needless haste, with all passengers riding with their seat belts fastened. When approaching quarters you may wish to turn your warning lights on, come to a complete stop and permit personnel to disembark and control street traffic to facilitate your backing into quarters.

Once the apparatus/ambulance is safely in quarters, it is time to prepare for another safe dispatch.

One final subject is BACKING UP. Extreme caution and a guide are required when backing up. Never back up if it can be avoided, many fender bender type crashes occur when backing up, some resulting in injuries and deaths.

Remember, whether driving for pleasure or driving an emergency vehicle, driving is a full time chore, requiring your full attention.

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Large grassfire

Rockport, TS. Large grassfire was battled with RVFD, FVFD and a wildfire crew from Aransas Wildlife Refuge and LVFD on stand by with Rockport Fire Corp. furnishing water on January 4th.

Crews could not get to the fire because of water in the field. We had to let the fire come to us and some put out by crews on foot and some by six wheeler from Refuge. Crews had one building with dogs inside, but the fire burned around it. We had crew at the barn with cutters to let them out if it came to that. Crews were at the scene for quite some time for flare ups.

Bill Snodgrass Executive Secretary Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club, Inc.®

1677 Jackson Rd. • Columbus, OH 43223 Secretary@redknightsmc.com View our web page at: WWW.REDKNIGHTSMC.com

"Loyal to Our Duty"

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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Spring, 2016

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

The Texarkana Fire Department runs with this Ford Ram 2500 as Squad 1

WWW.SMITHBROTHERSFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM

ROCKPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

Single vehicle wreck Dallas Fire-Rescue Tac 18

WWW.SMITHBROTHERSFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM

Rockport, TX. A single vehicle wreck sent one person to a local hospital on February 15th.

Upon arrival, crews found a single vehicle with one person inside still with a partially demolished cottage, a gas leak and possible water main leak. FVFD, EMS, RPD, ACSO, and city utilities responded to the scene.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

CHRIS WILKINSON, AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Executive fire officer program Congratulations to Austin Fire Department Assistant Chief Richard Davis, who recently graduated from the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer program. This four-year comprehensive curriculum provides senior fire officers with a broad perspective on various facets of fire and emergency services administration. The courses and accompanying research examine how to exercise leadership when dealing with difficult or unique problems within communities.

GARY SMITH

50 percent involved upon arrival Rockport, TX. Firefighters responded to an early morning structure fire on North Doughty on February 15th at about 5:45 a.m. On arrival, the structure was over 50% involved. No one was living in home, but it had quite a bit of stuff stored inside. The structure was a total loss. FVFD asssisted RVFD with EMS standing by until mop up was completed. No injuries were reported. Thanks once again to Fulton for all the manpower and transporting water to scene.

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

CHAD HODGE, DALLAS FIRE-RESCUE

Plane lands in Dallas on belly At 10:32 a.m. on February 3rd, Dallas Fire-Rescue Department members were assigned to an Alert 3, at the Dallas Executive Airport, for a plane that had reportedly landed with it’s wheels up. When firefighters arrived at the runway, they observed a plane on it’s belly. Thankfully, there was no fire reported, and everyone (unknown number) on the plane was already exiting. No injuries were reported.

SHERI HEMRICK, WWW.GOTPICTURES.US

Fully engulfed vacant in Hillsboro

Tones dropped at around 3:00 a.m. on March 15th for a fully engulfed structure fire in Hillsboro. The house was located on Park Drive, and it was vacant with a tall chain link fence around it. Hillsboro Fire and Rescue arrived within minutes of the call, but the house was already fully involved with flames shooting out the roof. Within 30 minutes the entire structure collasped. The neighboring house was very close to the burning structure, but firefighters were successful in keeping the flames off of the house. The fire is under investigation and no cause has been determined for the fire yet. No injuries were reported. Hillsboro was assisted by Bynum, Whitney and Itasca.

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

AFD BATTALION CHIEF ROB VIRES

The big rig wins every time With vehicle rescues involving an 18-wheeler, the big rig wins every time; this morning, December 4th, was no exception.

This high-speed collision between an SUV and an 18-wheeler trapped one person inside. The first crews on scene worked to extinguish a fire in the engine compartment of the SUV. The front end of the vehicle, including the front row seats, was under the trailer of the 18-wheeler; as you can see, this made for a complicated extrication of the SUV driver. He was freed and transported to the hospital, where he was in serious but stable condition.

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The Preston Fire Department once ran with this truck as Tower 51

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

LIBERTY EYLAU FD

Structures threatened by grass fire On Feb. 4, Liberty Eylau was dispatched to Merritt Drive on a grass fire moving close to a structure. Upon arrival, units reported two other structures threatened by the fire. No injuries reported. L.E.F.D was assisted by Wake Village and C-5 Fire Departments.

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

LUBBOCK FD

Lubbock participates in 2-1-1 Texas South Plains Day On Saturday morning, February 20th, Lubbock Fire Rescue participated in 2-1-1 Texas South Plains Day. Thanks to the E17 crew for helping to make this event a sucess.

SAN ANTONIO FD

Fun with the kids in San Antonio San Antonio Paramedics Robert Beckett an Randa Brown from Medic 13 joined in in some sidewalk chalk with some local children after finishing up on a call at an apartment complex recently.

Spring, 2016

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

Lubbock Fire Department Engine 9 at a recent fire in a duplex

LUBBOCK FD

CHRIS WILKINSON, AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Training exercise

Liberty Eylau Fire Department recently participated in a pump ops and drafting class

LIBERTY EYLAU FD

In early March, the Austin Fire Department participated in a "no notice" training exercise at Camp Mabry, along with the Texas Military Department, Austin Police Department, and AustinTravis County Emergency Medical Services. This type of event is held periodically to test readiness and preparedness in the event of an incident on base. Known as a Force Protection exercise, several scenarios are enacted, designed to test personnel from various agencies on how they react and communicate in the event of a crisis. In this particular case, we responded to a structure fire that evolved into an active shooter event. Engine 10/B shift was the first-in crew and they did a great job!

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Two alarm commercial arson fire Haltom City worked a commercial two alarm fire at 4010 NE 28th Street on March 14.

Mutual aid on scene included Fort Worth, North Richland Hills, Watauga, and BedJUMP TO FILE ford.

A firefighter #032816121 was injured with a cut during overhaul of the auto shop.

The arson fire suspect may have received flash burns to his face and hands according to a Haltom City Fire Department Intelligence Bulletin. They continue to seek additional information and the suspect's whereabouts.

Vehicle News

EVAN WEBSTER

The Baytown, TX Fire Department placed into service this 2015 Pierce Quantum 100’ tower ladder.

- BEN SALADINO

EVAN WEBSTER

The Pflugerville, TX Fire Department received this 2015 Pierce Velocity PUC 500/1500/105’.

Crews opening up the building for overhaul

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Dallas Fire-Rescue delivers meals and fire safety Dallas, TX. On Thursday, March 24, 2016, more than 120 members of the Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) Department came together for its second annual Day of Caring for Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) Meals on Wheels.

Personnel throughout the department, including Executive Assistant Chief Fernando Gray, hit

JUMP TO FILE #032516105 the streets of Dallas, at 10:00 a.m., to deliver approximately 650 meals, perform smoke alarm checks and installations (if necessary) and provide fire education materials to Meals on Wheels clients.

For every route delivered by volunteers, the money saved from not hiring a delivery driver helps VNA Meals on Wheels feed another hungry citizen for a week.

It was an honor and a privilege to be part of this effort and we look forward to building upon this year’s efforts.

- JASON EVANS

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

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Spring, 2016

Division Chief Cande Flores promoted to Deputy Chief

LIBERTY EYLAU FD

One transported

On March 1, firefighters responded to a motor vehicle accident on Highway 59. One patient was transported to local hospital with non-major injuries.

The recent retirement of Fire Chief Ken Dozier and the promotion of Deputy Chief Larry Bell left a vacancy at the position of Deputy Chief. The Abilene Fire Department is proud to announce JUMP TO FILE# that Division Chief 012016100 Cande Flores has been named to fill that vacancy.

Chief Flores began his career with the Abilene Fire Department in 1992. He was promoted through the ranks and is currently serving as the division chief over training.

“I am honored and excited to step into the position of Deputy Chief for the Abilene Fire Department. Personally, this is a great opportunity to support our department and the new Fire Chief. I have always had a strong commitment to the AFD and the citizens we serve.

I look forward to continuing this in my new role”, said Chief Flores.

Chief Flores began his new role on January 25, 2016.

Newly appointed Fire Chief Larry Bell said: “I am pleased to appoint Division Chief Flores as

our next Deputy Chief. He is very qualified and brings many strong qualities to this key position in our department. I look forward to working with him as we move into the fu-

ture.”

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

FACES OF TEXAS’ EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

HOUSTON FD, STATION 19

Brothers from Houston Fire Department, Station 19 on November 23rd.

CHRIS WILKINSON, AUSTIN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Firefighter Antista assists a family and their dog in Deweyville

TEXAS TASK FORCE 1

LUBBOCK FD

In honor of International Womens Day, Austin’s female firefighters, Firefighter Melody Liao, Fire Specialist Julie Hall, and Firefighter Nadia Martinez) who make up 6.5 percent of our uniform workforce; that's twice the national average!!

Class 2014-3 and 2015-1 Graduation and pinning ceremony in Lubbock.

Fire Specialist Parker, Firefighter Darin Coulter, and Firefighter Antista head out to a rescue in Deweyville.

Congrats to the members of Class 2015F graduating! Several are continuing the family tradition of becoming a Houston firefighter.

TEXAS TASK FORCE 1

HOUSTON FD, STATION 19

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

LUBBOCK FD

SAN ANTONIO FD

Promotional ceremony The San Antonio Fire Department held a monthly promotional ceremony on December 15, 2015. Those being promoted included David Brucks, Paul Greco, Kenneth Martin, Jason Mayer, Trevor Merecka, Eric Ortiz, Gregory Simms and Tallon Reddout who were all promoted from the rank of Firefighter to Fire Engineer. Robert Evans, Brandon Murray, Thomas Sinclair, Stephen Watts and Michael Zaiontz were promoted from Fire Engineer to Lieutenant and Robert Cardenas, John Garza, Rogelio Loredo and Douglas Whitehead were promoted from Lieutenant to Captain. Congratulations!

Pedestrian bridge collapses in Lubbock At 11:31 a.m on February 19th, Lubbock Fire Rescue received a call for a collapsed bridge in Mae Simmons Park.

Units arrived on scene at 11:36 a.m. to find a collapsed pedestrian bridge with a City of Lubbock Parks Department skid steer in about eight feet of water.

Two LFR personnel entered the water, broke out the windshield, and

JUMP TO FILE #031716118 pulled the driver out. CPR was started at 11:41 a.m. The driver was transported to the hospital by EMS. The two firefighters suffered cuts and were also transported. Two more Parks personnel were also transported for undisclosed reasons.

One of the firefighters required some stitches, but both firefighters and the two Parks Department personnel were released from the hospital.

The Lubbock Fire Rescue Dive Team assisted in recovery of the skid steer.

Units were clear of the scene at 1:53 p.m.

- LUBBOCK FD

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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This unit runs as Texarkana Fire Department's Brush 5

GARY SMITH

Fully involved upon arrival WWW.SMITHBROTHERSFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM

Dallas Fire-Rescue Hazmat 3

Structure just North of Tedford Ln. called in as two structures on fire, but on arrival it was one fully involved with two more storage sheds close on January 10th. FVFD was also on scene with manpower with EMS standing by, ACSO officers blocked off 1781 as we had to lay a line down the highway and Rockport Fire Corp furnished water and gatorade. Good job by all and no injuries. Two structures in two days for Rockport Fire Department.

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

To apply, contact the Fire Academy Director, (903) 510-3205, (903) 510-2404

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Texas

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT First Priority Emergency Vehicles Expands Operations Nationwide

First Priority Emergency Vehicles, one of America’s leading designers, manufacturers and distributors of a comprehensive array of firefighting, medical, rescue, public safety and mission-specific vehicles and equipment, has expanded its operations from 3 facilities across New Jersey to major new sales and production facilities in North Carolina, California and Texas.

With a significant nationwide distribution and service capability, First Priority provides comprehensive vehicle and apparatus solutions for federal, state, and local agencies and fleet customers nationwide.

Whether the need is a patient transport ambulance, a critical care unit, an advanced life support ambulance in the emergency medical service or a fire pumper, aerial ladder/platform, rescue truck in the fire service, First Priority has the solution.

For nearly 20 years, First Priority has distinguished itself from the competition by offering vehicles that are best suited to each client's exact mission and offers both stock designs as well as fully customized emergency vehicles to suit a wide variety of budgets.

By maintaining a firm understanding of the most current automotive, emergency, safety and fuel technologies, First Priority has the ex-

pertise, reputation, experience and resources to ensure their customers receive high quality vehicles and transportation solutions for emergency response, mission specific purposes and general departmental functions.

First Priority applies its significant production experience and technical knowledge to remain at the forefront of the specialized vehicle industry.

The company takes a collaborative, consultative approach to its clients' needs and identifies cost effective solutions to produce high-value vehicles, products and solutions.

Robert J. Freeman, President of First Priority Emergency Vehicles, states “Across the nation, First Priority products are used daily by American heroes in their life saving

KIMTEK UTV Transport Skid units now offered on W.S. Darley website

and property preserving missions.

First Priority is consistently recognized by first responders across the US and worldwide for technical innovation and functional design.

We are grateful for their sacrifices and proud to partner with them by providing the tools necessary to ensure the public safety of our nation and its families.”

First Priority is a proud recipient of the prestigious President’s E-Award for its contribution to the American economy through exporting of premium-grade American made products worldwide.

For additional information, visit First Priority at www.FirstPriorityGlobal.net and by phone at (800) 247-7725.

ORLEANS, VT; February 1, 2016—W.S. Darley’s e-commerce website eDarley.com now features the KIMTEK® MEDLITE® and FIRELITE® line of transport skid units custom designed for UTVs. The addition of KIMTEK's products on the Darley website provides customers with more options for purchasing UTV-based skid units specifically designed for off-road EMS, medical, and firefighting applications.

KIMTEK President Kimball Johnson said, “I am pleased that one of our long-term strategic goals was reached this year with the addition of KIMTEK products into the larger line of products sold by W.S. Darley and Co. since 1908." Noting that loyal Darley customers can now buy KIMTEK products direct through eDarley.com, a website Mr. Johnson said is trusted throughout the

industry, he added, "This development is another milestone in a long, successful relationship between W.S. Darley and KIMTEK.” Visitors to eDarley.com will find KIMTEK's FIRELITE Transport at http://www.edarley.com/firelitetransport-skid-units/ and KIMTEK's MEDLITE Transport a t http://www.edarley.com/medlitetransport-skid-units/.

KIMTEK posts record sales Sales of KIMTEK UTV and pickup truck-based skid units topped a record 465 units shipped in 2015. Posting a gain of over 10% from the previous year, KIMTEK is poised for another record year in 2016. The company attributes this growth to successful relationships with vendors, high quality products, and excellent service before, during, and after the sale.

Additional Vendor Spotlights from our advertisers can be found at www.1rbn.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Homeland Security CHAPLAINS CORNER Pastor Fernando Villicana

LUBBOCK FD

Structure fire in duplex

At 2:38 p.m. on February 20th, Lubbock Fire Rescue units responded to the duplex at 4315 53rd for a reported structure fire. Units arrived to find a fire in a wall in side B downstairs. They quickly extinguished that fire and some fire in the ceiling of that room, but the fire had followed a chase to the upstairs and into the attic. Command then called for a second alarm at 2:45 p.m.

Units had the fire out around 3:20 p.m. Both sides of the duplex were empty and been undergoing renovation. A total of 12 apparatus and 41 personnel responded to the fire. There was one minor injury that was treated on scene. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

Visit us at www.1rbn.com

The Department of Homeland Security: Formed post 9-11 as a counterterrorism measure. Its stated goal is “to prepare for, prevent, and respond to domestic emergencies, particularly terrorism.” This is accomplished (in part) by analyzing and sharing information.

This is what we’re going to do analyze and share information from the Word of God to help prepare for, prevent and respond to domestic emergencies (marriages).

Philippians 2:2 (Phillips) "Live together in harmony and love, as though you only had one mind and spirit between you."

Wouldn’t that be great? If we would do this, we would all be on the same page. Our marriages would flourish. Is that even possible (harmony, love, sharing the same mind/spirit)? The answer is yes!

Remember, God would never frustrate himself by asking us to do something that was impossible. Not only is it possible, but it is God’s desire for our lives and He’ll help us get there. The reality is that a lot of families are in disharmony, conflict and disappointment. A lot of people will say, "I feel cheated by my marriage." Maybe you’re like the guy who said: "When I got married, it started off ideal; a few months later it turned into an ordeal, now I'm looking for a new deal." What happened?

Well, good marriages and families don't just happen!

Ephesians 4:3 "Make every ef-

fort to keep the unity of the Spirit."

It takes energy and effort to create/maintain Homeland Security. If you need some work when it comes to unity in your marriage, I've got some good news for you: You don't have to completely change your life around to make your marriage better. Minor changes will make major differences.

KEY #1 COMMUNICATION Proverbs 13:17 "Reliable communication permits progress."

In any emergency, the fire service’s top priority is to maintain good communication. This is why ICS is so important - a common language for all emergency responders. For progress to take place in your marriage, you've got to talk to each other too. I must be concise and reliable.

OHRC - open, honest reliable communication permits progress.

KEY #2 CONSIDERATION Consideration means you start thinking of “we” instead of “ me.” In an emergency it involves a good size up, getting the whole picture. In marriages it means showing common courtesy, helping each other.

Ephesians 4:2 "Show your love by being helpful to each other.”How many have been told - “Don’t just say you love me - show you love me” or, “talk is cheap.” We should all make an effort to show our love to each other.

James 3:17 "Wisdom shows itself in being considerate." A mark of being wise is being considerate (thoughtful, kind, understanding, selfless…) The Bible says in Romans 15 “We must be considerate of the doubts and fears of others.

If we do what helps them we will build them up in the Lord.”

These are just two keys to many in assuring Homeland Security.

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Texarkana Reserve Engine 2 is a 1999 E-One Cyclone, 1250/500

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For Sale First Priority Renaissance Wheeled Coach CitiMedic Type III on a 2014 Chevrolet G 3500 Diesel Chassis $101,995. LonPlate Fllor, FPEV RCT Electrical System Whelen M Series LED Emergency Lighting, Eberhard Handles, Exterior Compartment Bedliner Paint, Interior LED Lighting And Much More!!!

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1ST Responder Newspaper - TX

Spring, 2016

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Spring, 2016

1ST Responder Newspaper - TX