2023 May FFS Magazine

DELIVERING STRENGTH THROUGH EXCELLENCE

E-ONE® CUSTOM TANKERS.

Thank

RUGGED. COMPACT.

• E-ONE Custom Tanker

• Typhoon Medium Cab / 12" Vista

• Cummins L9 400 HP Engine

• Allison 3000 EVS Transmission

• Hale Qmax 1500 GPM Pump

• UPF 2500 Gallon WaterTank

• UPF 30 Gallon Foam Tank

• FoamPro Hypro 1600 Foam System

• Class Sentry Pressure Governor

• Harrison 6KW Hydraulic Generator

• Weldon V-MUX Electrical System

• Leece Neville 35D Amp Alternator

• Electronic Stability Control 6x4

• Reduced Profile Rear Engine Cover

• Severe Duty Dash Package

• Heavy Duty Front Bumper

• Seats Inc. 911 Cab Seating

• FireTech LED Ct> Headlights

• Whelen LED Lighting Package

• FireTech Scene Light Package

• FireCom Wireless Intercom

• Federal Q2B Flush Bumper Mounted Siren

F

ORIDA FIRECHIEF S ’ ASSOCIATION

Florida Fire Service is the monthly publication of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, provided to Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) members, by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association.

Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association

221 Pinewood Drive Tallahassee, FL 32303

Phone:(850) 900-5180

Email: info@ffca.org • www.ffca.org

FFCA Staff

Wm. Ray Colburn - Executive Director & CEO

Ngoc Huynh - Operations & Events Director

Denise Holley - Office Manager

Liz Aperauch - Marketing Coordinator

FFCA Board of Directors

Douglas Riley - President

Harold Theus - 1st Vice President

Michael Choate - 2nd Vice President

Ty Silcox - Immediate Past President

Carlos Aviles - Secretary/Treasurer

Ryan H. Crawford - Northwest Region Director

Brady Rigdon - Northeast Region Director

Chuck Bogle - East Central Region Director

Chantal Botting - Southeast Region Director

Ian Kemp - West Central Region Director

GregoryDeWitt - Southwest Region Director

Wm. Ray Colburn- Executive Director & CEO

James White - Foundation Chair

Leland Greek - Senior Member

Editorial Submissions magazine@ffca.org

(850) 900-5180

Advertising

Scott Leisen, Editor in Chief scott@ffca.org

(386) 717-0055

Subscription rate for members is $36, which is included in member dues. Archived electronic monthly editions of Florida Fire Service magazine are available at www.ffca.org. Log in as a member and click on the Publications tab.

Florida Fire Service

May 2023, Volume 31, Number 5

USPS # 016-759

Periodical postage paid in Daytona Beach, Florida, and additional post offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Florida Fire Service, 221 Pinewood Drive Tallahassee, FL 32303. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers or the members of FFCA.

Copyright 2023 by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission.

Doyouhavetherighttoolsformentalwellness?

ByDr.KellieO’Dare

TheBehavioralHealthAccessProgram(BHAP)Toolkitis afreeresourcedevelopedinpartnershipwiththe2nd AlarmProject,UCFRESTORES,theFloridaFire ghters SafetyandHealthCollaborative,andtheCityofCoral Springs/CoralSpringsFireDepartment.Thepurposeof thisToolkitistoprovideablueprinttohelp organizationsdeveloporreinforcebehavioralhealth programs.TheToolkitincludesmodulesandtask bookscoveringarangeofevidence-informed strategiestailoredspeci callytoaddresstheunique challenges rstrespondersface.TheToolkitprovides rstresponderagenciesconcretetools,resources,and strategiestointegratetheBHAPmodelintotheir day-to-dayoperations.

RSUisproudtodonateour adspacetothe2ndAlarm Project.Learnmoreabout howtheyaredeveloping resourcesandtoolsto assistFireDepartmentsin buildingcomprehensive resiliencyprograms

RescueSystemsUnlimited

Greetings FFCA family,

The 2023 Legislative session is finally over, and I want to send a huge thank you out to the FFCA staff, board members, and partners at the FPF and FFMIA who worked diligently to lobby for bills that will be beneficial to the Florida fire service and to stand firm on blocking those that don’t. A special shout out to our Executive Director Ray Colburn and Chief Darrel Donatto for the time and effort that they devoted to this important initiative.

We have now completed four of the six Regional Directors meetings with the last two scheduled for May and June. I appreciate all that have been able to attend to share valuable information as well as long overdue fellowship. Plans are well underway for the 2023 Executive Development conference which is being held

in Naples on July 14-18, 2023. During the conference the 2023-2024 Board of Directors will be announced and sworn in. There are currently two positions that are up for elections and the electronic ballots have been sent out to all FFCA members. Please take time to read about the candidates and cast your vote. The FFCA board serves to advocate for you, and we need to hear from you. We were excited for the return of the Emergency Vehicle Technician Training Academy after a long pause due to the pandemic. The event was held last week, May 18-19, in Tampa. The success of this program depends on us sending attendees, so please continue registering your personnel to attend.

As always, our top priority is the safety and health of our firefighters. Please continue to

Douglas Riley, Fire Chief FFCA President

research and employ best practices for the benefit of our personnel. We are very fortunate to have the number and quality of resources that we have available to us in our great state. We can’t express enough how important our partnerships are with the Florida Firefighter Safety and Health Collaborative as well as the Florida Professional Firefighters. Together we continue to identify and share best practices and resources available to reduce the incidences of occupational cancer as well as to ensure the mental health and well-being of our most precious resource, our brothers and sisters in the fire service.

Stay safe and please contact your FFCA staff and/or Board of Directors if you need us for anything.

©2022LIONGroup,Inc.Allrightsreserved.RedZoneisatrademarkofLIONGroup,Inc.

By Rick Spence

During the Old Testament days, the Priests and Jewish religious leaders wrote laws people had to follow to get closer to God. When they saw something they did not like or think was proper, they would write another law In total, there were 613 laws you had to follow in order to get to Heaven. Most people are familiar with some of these laws, such as the Ten Commandments, and they are still applicable today. Some of them are no longer enforced today, like not to eat an ox that has been stoned (I think it refers to large rocks, not a buzzed ox). Jesus came to do away with the law and introduced the concept of grace and mercy. He knew and spoke about how you cannot legislate or mandate your way into Heaven. Jesus knew people had to want to become a Christian and be willing to follow Christ’s direction, rather than it being forced or based on something conditional. He also knew the way to get people to follow his lead was to build a relationship with them first. There are similarities within the fire service with this method. We tend to write policies in order to regulate people’s behavior. I believe in most fire departments, there are policies that have people’s name written on them. Maybe not literally, but in spirit, because certain people did something that inspired a particular policy In fact, our station transfer policy was written after a senior firefighter argued that he should not have to transfer stations. His argument was so convincing that

the O*** policy is still being followed today. Just like the Old Testament leaders, we are trying to legislate people’s behavior.I wonder if there could be a better way to do things. There may be some lessons we can learn from how Jesus did things. He knew the value of relationships with people, ALL PEOPLE, not just those who followed Him. He did not heal everyone he met nor did everyone he talked to become followers of Christ, but He still took time to get to know them and talk to them. Maybe we can find two or three people who we can take some time with and get to know them a little better. Talk to them about non-work-related topics. There are plenty of people in the fire service who enjoy outdoor activities. Just ask one of them about their hunting or fishing exploits. I have never met one of them who is not eager to share a few stories and pictures. Ask someone about their children’s activities: sports, cheerleading or theatre. There is never a shortage of pictures and stories. I realize it would be unrealistic to try to get to know everyone within some of the larger departments, but we start small and allow it to spread.

We must do something different because what we are doing is not working. There are so many firefighters who do not think they are appreciated by their leaders, add that to more complex calls, increased call load, mandatory overtime and a plethora of other issues, and people forget why they became

firefighters in the first place. While I realize almost every fire department is struggling to get more money and people, I’m not sure that more money and people will fix all these problems. We have to start somewhere because you eat an elephant one bite at a time. Anyway, what could be so bad about getting to know some of our coworkers better? Most of Jesus’ ministry was not done behind a pulpit, it was done out in His community making relationships. Perhaps, some of our leadership should not be behind a desk but more out in our community.

“Go into the world and spread the gospel. Use your words if you must.”

St. Francis of Assisi

Rick Spence retired as Assistant Chief from the Reedy Creek Fire Department after 30 years. Heis currently the Chaplain for the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, Central Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association,Reedy Creek Fire Department, Lake County Fire Department, Clermont Fire Department, Maitland Fire Department, and the Florida Professional Firefighters. He serves as Sergeant of Arms for the Florida Professional Firefighters and International Association of Firefighters.He was selected Florida Professional Firefighter of the Year in 2018.He has been married to his wife Alecia for 36 years.

FFCA Northwest Region Meeting Held in South Walton

By: Mackenzie McClintock, SWFD Public Information Officer

The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association

Northwest Regional Meeting and Lunch took place Friday, April 21, at South Walton Fire District with more than 70 area chiefs and personnel in attendance.

Items on the agenda included updates from FFCA President Doug Riley,FFCA Northwest Regional Director Ryan Crawford, and State Fire Marshal’s Office Director

Multiple sponsors also provided lunch for the meeting, which was a much appreciated and generous addition to the afternoon. On behalf of SWFD, thank you to everyone who attended and provided important updates from around the state.

JoAnne Rice, along with other presentations related to mental health resources for first responders and the State Emergency Response Plan.

Emergency Services Leadership Institute Finance and Budgeting

During May 1-2, 2023, more than forty fire officers of various ranks throughout Florida converged at North Port Fire Rescue to attend the professional development series of the Emergency Services Leadership Institute (ESLI). The fire officers that attended this two-day ESLI course were introduced to a variety of topics telated to budgeting and finance of a modern fire department.

Navigating the complexities of organizational fire rescue budgets, each participant was required to bring their own respective organization’s budget to the class and work through answering many questions related to funding and overall percentages of each account line. Understanding the concept of accounting lines, capital budget compared to the O\operating budget, purchasing limitations through policy, encumbrances, and fund transfers were just some of the items discussed. These fire officers were introduced to the importance of speaking the language of financial terms and the link to organizational and one’s professional success.

These fire service leaders were walked-

through the entire governmental budgeting process and budget calendar requirements for the development and final adoption of a governmental budget within the State of Florida. Understanding the significant costs associated with fire service personnel and the vital services provided to a local community and the decision on funding priorities and levels falls on each legislative body throughout Florida. In addition, the various types of funding sources that a fire department obtains were discussed in detail and the difference between Special Taxing Districts, Municipal, County, and even Tribal entities were presented. Understanding that the fire department is but one service out of many services provided by a local government and funding priorities are established through public input and elected official’s desires and priorities. These ESLI participants were continuously reminded throughout the twodays that governmental budgeting and finance places emphases on accountability more than efficiency and one must understand this important factor to prevent professional mistakes and frustration for the fire officer.

The fire service provides excellent training and preparation opportunities for the aspiring fire officer for the front-right Officer’s riding position of a fire apparatus within Operations. Unfortunately, this is not the case for preparing an aspiring fire officer for their transition from the front-right seat of a fire apparatus into the forty-hour administrative role. However, Florida is the exception. The six modules incorporated into the Emergency Services Leadership Institute two-day courses gives such fire officers aspiring to the senior and executive level an opportunity to be presented and have significant understanding of the expectations and responsibilities associated with a fire officer’s roles in an administrative role. If you are looking for a professional development program that will provide first-hand information for the transition from the field into administration in the Florida fire service; visit the FFCA’s website for more information.

The 2023 ESLI Finance and Budgeting instructors were Fire Chief Michael Johansmeyer and Public Safety Director Will Watts.

Titusville Fire Department Takes Delivery of AmbuMan

Advanced

ByGregory G. Sutton, Battalion Chief of Administration, Titusville Fire Department

Titusville Fire Department is excited to take delivery of a new training manikin that will take our emergency medical training to a higher level. This manikin is a first of its kind for TFD. The AmbuMan Advanced is Ambus’ latest training manikin generation, which is made to fulfil all the needs of Advanced Life Support (ALS) - Training. The focus of the manikin is on the algorithm: Air way Management, ECG simulation, defibrillation, and the training of IV and IO access techniques. We can monitor together: compression depth, correct hand position, ventilation volume, and stomach inflation.

Using AmbuMan Advanced, we can create custom scenarios, making the possibilities endless. The AmbuMan Advanced is the ALS training manikin for professionals. This was made possible thanks to grant funding in the amount of $8,793.35 through the State Department of Health Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Trust Fund issued to Brevard County, who then provides funds to EMS providers in the county for improvements and expansions of pre-hospital Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Members of our Training Division participated in training to become familiar with the use, care, and maintenance

of AmbuMan Advanced. We are excited to put AmbuMan Advanced to good use as we continue to provide quality training to our personnel, allowing us to fulfill our mission to proactively serve the needs of our community through education, prevention, training, and response.

The Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) Hazmat Team responded to an ammonia leak at the Coca-Cola bottling plant located in Auburndale, FL on March 15. Upon arrival, the PCFR Hazmat team was advised that a 20,000-pound capacity tank, located within the plant’s mechanical room, was believed to be leaking large amounts of ammonia. Crews were also notified that the cause of the leak was a 3/4-inch threading test port that was dislodged during the tank’snormal operations.

Once the PCFR Hazmat team determined the possible cause of the leak, members from

PCFR Heavy 9 suited up in their Level-A protective gear and prepared to make entry into the machinery room to get a closer look. Upon Heavy 9’s entry into the machinery room, PCFR personnel realized they would be faced with two additional circumstances inside the room that would challenge their response efforts. The first challenge was a mixture of liquid ammonia and oil that covered the floor (from the machine’s industrial process). The second challenge was low visibility cause by a large vapor cloud that had formed within the room. After Heavy 9 crewmembers assessed the challenges they would face, they devised a plan on how to

safely move forward so they could successfully stop the leak. Crews then worked together to relodge the machine’s threading test port, stopping the leak.

“We are extremely proud of the Polk County Fire Rescue Hazmat Team’s response to this incident,” said Polk County Fire Chief, Hezedean A. Smith, D.M. “The team’s preliminary training, effective communication, and quick decision making helped prevent a tragedy from unfolding, and it’sa shining example of the service we provide.”

Wherever did the adage, “Birds of a feather flock together,” come from? The saying can be traced back to the 16th Century by William Turner. Over the years, it has referenced people who thrive together through commonalities. People generally migrate toward others who share similar interests or a joint mission, which unites them. The fire service thrives because of, not despite, the makeup of its members. The fire service’s collective strength, intelligence, and resilience to respond to all-hazards of our nation’s communities result from the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities that the fire service makeup entails.

The fire service brings individually diverse and unique people together under a shared sense of purpose. This bond allows selflessness to persist under the stewardship and commitment of the men and women of the fire service to provide for others in their greatest time of need. This joint mission unites the firefighter-group as one. It creates cohesion and a sense of belonging that is attractive to the human spirit. This phenomenon has often been called camaraderie or the bond within the brotherhood/sisterhood of the fire service culture. It is a driving factor that attracts many to this line of work despite its dangers and inherent risks.

The fire service, as a cause, is like a feather, and we tend to flock together. The first part of that statement (a feather) relates to our shared value system to serve others and the oath we swear to place the safety of others above our own. That takes a special individual and it separates the public servants from other jobs and occupations among the public. The latter part (flocking together) relates to the bond that connects our members to the mission and each other. Remember to consider how powerful these components exist, or don’t

By Doug McGlynn

exist, in your fire department culture. Fire service leaders must provide open-door policies for new members to join the flock and that our training and onboarding programs possess similar strategies. Programs focused on onboarding new firefighters must be available, fair, and balanced. At the same time, upholding performance standards ensures new members can do the strenuous work that the public expects and deserves. If not, we violate the social contract between the “public” and the “public servant.” When this occurs, public trust and sentiment for the fire service wane.

A department open door policy is essential, but only if the department also has an open heart to welcome others that contain a different feather from what they are used to seeing. The fire service can quickly judge others they perceive as less than worthy of the flock. It is not the job of the fire service to sift and sort out who might be able to do this job, but instead, give people a chance to prove that they have what it takes to do this job. Not everyone is cut out to serve as a firefighter, but people deserve the opportunity to prove they are. This underscores the importance of upholding entry standards for your department and providing a means for qualified candidates to apply for open positions.

To the extremes, “flocking together” in the fire service isn’t always good thing. There is a flip side that can be less than healthy First, flocking is wrong when it means accepting or denying new people into the fold based on race, creed, religion, or sexual preference. If this occurs, it must be called out and corrected immediately. Aside from those examples, the fire service can be considered a unique form of flock. People embrace being among others of a feather (firefighters with emergency personnel, doctors and hospital administrators, politicians

and lawmakers), but to the extremes, they can become like-minded and sometimes look and behave similarly to each other. The phenomenon of groupthink can develop among some of these groups, and a sense of pride can settle in that makes it difficult for people to speak their minds or form their own opinion when among the flock. These extremes are unhealthy for the organization. After a while, group members will align with other common behaviors of the collective group, and individuality can suffocate in these environments. A concept called “in-group/outgroup” can develop, making it difficult for a person to resist the harmony of the collective whole or speak up when wrong-doing occurs. The overwhelming sense “of belonging” takes precedence over everything else, which is a dangerous place to be for people of an organization.

It is human nature to desire doing life with others, to be accepted, and enter into social bonds and contracts with people of similar morals, ethics, and behaviors. The commonwide purpose that the fire service provides its members is a powerful force that can draw people together, and that’s a good thing. As people enter into community with one another, a sense of unity develops among them. Fire service leaders must ensure that a sense of unity does not turn into uniformity. Uniformity is when everyone looks, acts, and thinks the same.

“Unity is not uniformity.”

As leaders, we must be intentional about surrounding ourselves with diverse groups of people who will view problems, perceive their surroundings, and think differently than we do. Many perspectives are necessary if your team is prepared to tackle challenging issues and conflicts in today’s changing world. Today’s fire service leaders build strong bases

of people who are like-hearted, not likeminded. Effective fire service professionals place a high priority on surrounding themselves with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds and who often possess the critically diverse thinking that is necessary for the team to succeed. People from diverse cultures and backgrounds often look differently than you do, but diversity is so much deeper than external appearances. It is woven into the fiber and character of the fire service profession. Today, leaders must find ways to successfully cultivate environments of team unity and togetherness in their organizations. Leaders inspire their people toward a common vision and move them from where they are today toward a place of improving tomorrow. This pursuit of continuous growth and a collective purpose transform people into better versions of themselves.

The priority for today’s leaders is to figure out how to come together as a collective whole

while at the same time celebrate the unique differences that make up the whole. When dealing with service industries, the most significant asset is always your people. Aristotle got it right when he was credited with what still rings true today, that the “whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” Notice that he didn’t say that the whole is greater than its parts or vice versa. The whole is always greater than the sum of its parts. A united people can accomplish far greater things than one can alone. In these environments, people tend to trust one another greater, rely on one another more often, and develop more respect and encouragement for each other. Considering the life-saving work of the fire service, these attributes on your team can generate intense love and loyalty for one another, and ultimately make the difference between life and death for the public we serve. So if the fire service were a “bird of feather”, it would make sense for us to “flock together.”

Doug McGlynn is a 26 year veteran of the fire service, and a Deputy Chief with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue.Doug is an Incident Commander with the Southeast Florida Region 7 AHIMT and has deployed to multiple disasters in Florida and Oklahoma over the past 7 years. He hasa Master’s Degree in Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University,a Bachelor’s in Public Administration from Barry University, and a Fire Science degree from Palm Beach State College. Doug is an ESLI graduate of the Florida Fire Chief’s Association, and an EFO graduate of the National Fire Academy. Doug is also a designated Chief Fire Officer with the Center for Public Safety Excellence and currently enrolled in the Fire Service Executive Development Institute with the International Association of Fire Chiefs. Doug sits on the Board of Directors with the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Palm Beach County and is a member of the Institute of FireService Engineers.

Build Bridges: Managing People in the Fire Service

By Lexipol Team at Lexipol.com

Company officers: The middle managers of the fire service. The ones who enforce policies and procedures. The ones who play an integral role in setting culture and expectations in the station. The ones who hear the complaints and see the problems firsthand. The ones who sometimes feel unprepared and out of control. Managing the fire scene is what you’ve been trained for, but managing the people under your command can be an unexpected challenge.

The company officer’s dilemma, as defined by Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder (LovelandSymmes Fire Department) and Dr. Ed Sherman, is the seemingly all-or-nothing choice between being a people person or being a department person. “Do I represent management? Do I represent and take care of the crew?” Chief Goldfeder presents the question. Ultimately, the answer is the most challenging one— you must be both. In a recent webinar, The Company Officer’s Dilemma: Strategies for Achieving Department Goals While Also Meeting Member Needs,” Chief Goldfeder and Dr. Sherman discuss what it means to be a company officer today, and how to approach some of the more challenging “people problems” of the job.

What to Do?

The company officer is in the first position of intervention when a problem arises—a company officer’s initial reaction can

determine the outcome of the situation. As Dr. Sherman explains, “Part of our DNA is action. We feel we always have to have the answer and act quickly.” But when company officers have time to think (or “discretionary time,” as Gordon Graham would say), it makes sense to take a beat and consider next steps. Except when you’re responding to an emergency scene, there is almost always time to think before you act. A good rule of thumb: before you do, you should think.

But eventually you come back around to the inevitable question: what to do and what not to do? Ultimately, what you should do and what you can do are one and the same. As Chief Goldfeder explains, “Do what you’re qualified to do; do what you’re certified to do. And with anything else, you "yield to the expert.” Be aware of what resources are available to you within your department and rely on them. When something is out of your range of expertise, get help from the experts: HR, your department’s EAP, a supervisor, your chief or anyone else who has the training, experience and ability to speak into the issue at hand. Some problems are simply outside the scope of what you know and can do—do not be too prideful to ask for help.

So first, company officers should not do things they aren’t qualified for. But what should you do? It’s important to balance the department’s needs with the needs of your

people; it’s your job to represent the interests of both. Understand there is work that needs to be done and holding people accountable is essential to good leadership. Ensuring the department functions as it should is part of the job. On the flip side, recognize that the work is accomplished by those under your command. Personnel who are supported and well caredfor will perform their jobs better Company officers must understand that, when it comes down to being a “department person” or a “people person,” the job’s responsibilities are two sides of the same coin. Everyone is here to serve the community and do the job well, but you must do so within the confines of your department’s structure.

What to Say?

Unsurprisingly, the role of a company officer is marked and dramatically impacted by communication. Company officers are uniquely positioned to communicate in both directions, to superiors and subordinates. The level, quality, and clarity of your communication are all critical components to success. While we understand that communication largely occurs organically at the company officer level, that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be intentional. “If things are unspoken, if people think they are not included, if they think their input doesn’t matter, they become disenfranchised,” Dr. Sherman explains. “And when they become

disenfranchised, they’re less likely to be good, active, loyal employees. But the reverse is also true.”

Bring your people into the conversation; be open, receptive and responsive to their questions and concerns. Remember: you can always bring in support from HR, leadership, your agency’s peer support team or elsewhere to help deal with the questions and concerns of your people. Dr. Sherman concludes, “Build bridges. It is inevitable that we’ll encounter people we don’t see eye to eye with and all I can say is, build bridges and try to promote that communication.”

You also have the opportunity to communicate feedback to your superiors— provide insight into what it’s like on the ground, the challenges you face, and the input of your personnel. While sharing concerns with department leadership is part of the job, you must ultimately remember that you still have the responsibility to ensure policies, training, and other directives from the top are carried out under your command—even if they’re unpopular. Remember, “it’s our job,” Dr. Sherman explains. “We get to voice our concerns, but now it’s time to carry it forward.”

Managing Effectively

As company officers, why do you do the things you do? Hopefully, you do what you’re trained, qualified, and certified to do. Hopefully, when you need support on something outside your wheelhouse, you seek it out. And hopefully, you have learned how to communicate well from those who trained you and led you throughout your career in the fire service. Everything comes back to organizational culture: We’re most likely to replicate and repeat the behavior we’ve seen. Company officers have an opportunity to shape the culture of their station and their shift. Ask the question, “Is what I’ve seen done producing the best outcomes?” If not, determine what you can do differently.

“I have felt for years that the greatest position we have in this job, the most enjoyable position we have in this job, yet the most risky and dangerous job we have, is the company officer. Because that’s where the rubber meets the road,” Chief Goldfeder says. The responsibility is great and requires dedication, not only to excel at your responsibilities, but to bring in help when you are not the expert.

To learn more, watch the on-demand webinar, "The Company Officer’s Dilemma: Strategies for Achieving Department Goals While Also Supporting Member Needs,”with Chief Goldfeder and Dr. Sherman and register

Electric Vehicles Pose Unique Challenges for the Fire Service

Part II - Open and Closed Parking Garages

In the September 2022 edition Florida Fire Service Magazine, I touched on several factors that make for a bad day at the firehouse when it comes to responding to electric vehicle incidents. That article was mostly about lithiumion batteries, suppression, extrication, and sensitive environmental concerns. Part II will examine open and closed parking garage structures utilizing the NFPA Codes & Standards.

Parking garages or parking structures per the NFPA Codebook can be located underground or above ground and are usually located in congested urban areas where large open parking lots are not feasible. They can be public or private and store anything from cars, motorcycles, trucks and buses.

We are going to see more and more EV’s

By Douglas LeValley

especially with the nation’s most ambitious climate control regulations to date, two-thirds of new passenger cars and a quarter of the new heavy duty trucks sold in the United States are to be all-electric by 2032. One of the issues as the first responders in our communities, we must acknowledge that our communities think of us as the experts in the field of whatever we are mitigating on the streets. What constitutes an expert? (A person with extensive experience or knowledge in a specific field or discipline beyond that of a layperson). In the eyes of our communities, we are the Subject-Matter Expert (SME).

As the fire service professionals, we must understand how these electric vehicles (EV’s) work. Here is a basic rundown of how electric vehicles work: EV’s receive energy from a charging station and store the energy in its battery. The battery gives power to the motor, which moves the wheels. Obviously,a modern EV requires several other electrical components to operate reliably and efficiently, but these are the fundamentals of EV’s. The concerns about parking garages open or closed are starting to gain attention in the fire service around the country by what has occurred here in the United States with electric vehicle fires vs parking garages (Case History; Houston Fire Department 1508 Blodgett Street Apartment Fire).

While in other parts of the world, fires in parking structures have led to very large economic losses, as evidenced by recent fires at Liverpool’s Echo Arena (UK) and at the Stavanger Airport (Norway). These incidents involved hundreds of automobiles, injuries, severe structural damage, and structure collapse. In parking garages, vehicles are parked right next to one another to save space, this becomes a combustible nightmare, we must get a handle on the fire within the first few minutes upon arrival or we will lose the battle.

and quick preplanned attacks are critical to the outcome of these incidents, especially when residents are attached to the parking garages.

Something else we must consider: parking garages across the US could be at risk of collapse over the weight of heavier electric vehicles. One such garage fell in Lower Manhattan recently, killing one person and injuring five. Example, the weight of vehicles: (1960 4-door Cadillac 4703 lbs EV 2023-BMW IX 5769 lbs and EV 2023-GMC Hummer 9063 lbs.

The heat generated by EV fires is a major concern for parking garages as well with the possibility of heat-induced spalling. When concrete is exposed to temperatures above 212°F, the boiling point of water, the moisture in the concrete turns to steam. If the temperature rises more rapidly than the steam can escape through the concrete matrix, the rising pressures exceed the strength of the concrete and it begins to spall. This spalling can be explosive in extreme cases can cause major damage, including collapse.

Two cities in the US have already banned parking electric vehicles in underground garages. There have been reports of spontaneous combustion in two underground parking garages of EV’s that caused fires and structural damage. The good news: there are solutions for electric vehicles in underground parking garages, but they are not simple or cheap. Only with significant structural interventions can fires be contained reliably without the risk of significant secondary damage. There are many solutions in the future, they have looked at both CO2 and water mist concepts for parking garages, but both have issues and are still pushing forward to find the right solution to correct these incidents from getting out of control prior to fire departments arrival. The NFPA Research Foundation has started a project, this research is called theProspectusElectricVehicleHazardsin ParkingGaragesand it has several research goals to conduct. The goals of this project is to quantify the fire hazard and spread characteristics of electric vehicles to reform fire protection requirements for parking structures open or closed per NFPA.

With the influx of electric vehicles, EV chargers are popping up within these existing open and closed parking garages and the fire departments are last to know about them. The

Level 2–240V Chargers are the most common type found at residential/commercial charging stations. 220-240V plugs usually offer around 40 amps of service. The safety of the charging stations can be affected by wiring components as well as the competency and experience of the installer. The EV charging station is using a large amount of electrical current to charge an EV to full capacity. A security video of an EV fire in a parking garage revealed a significant fire developed involving three vehicles in under three minutes and was too large to extinguish with any portable fire extinguishers as soon as it selfvented from the vehicle of origin.

With NFPA setting the four minutes of the initial 911 call for the first engine to arrive on scene, some form of fire suppression must occur prior to the fire department’s arrival if a conflagration is to be avoided. As first responders, we must have some basic standing operation guidelines in place for open and closed parking garage fires in your first response territories. Remember that the NFPA for open parking garages are not required to have a wet sprinkler system in place. In fact, they are not required to have a sprinkler system at all. They only to have a way of establishing a water supply (Dry Standpipe System, especially on a multi-story open parking garage. The first on scene units must establish a secured water supply and a way of advancing hose line on multi-story garages. The goal is to get the wet stuff on the red stuff as soon as possible to slow down the heat transfer to other batteries and eliminate lithium-ion battery thermal run-away.

Besides water, there are other alternative suppression measure that are available, (i.e. Fire Blankets, Cutting Extinguisher, Battery Extinguishing System and lastly, the Submerging Tanks) to name a few

The bottom line is that we are the electric vehicle SME on scene; the only way firefighters can obtain this title is by getting out in your first alarm territory and learn your districts and the components of the EV’s and what makes them work. These quick walk-throughs of the open and closed parking garages within your first response territories can make an impact on how we manage your next EV fire within a parking garage structure.

When conducting these walk-throughs look for:

•Secured water supply (Primary hydrant and secondary hydrants)

•Standpipe riser locations (Wet and dry systems)

•Access to the vehicle fire on multi-story parking garages (i.e. stairs, elevators ramps ect…)

•Estimating the stretch (Utilize high rise packs)

•Locations of Level I or II electric vehicle charging stations

•Utility disconnects

•Sewer, storm drains ect., for environmentally sensitive areas due to contamination runoff

These are just a few tips, there a lot of different types of open and closed parking garages out there in our communities. The goal is to have an advantage prior to arrival when responding to these incidents so we eliminate the problem quickly and safely.

As a reminder, the electric vehicle has three distinct properties, Chemical, Electrical and Thermal Learn the components of EV’s and know the structures in your assigned areas; you will be surprised on what you might find.

Navarre Beach Fire Rescue Donates Truck to Department in Alabama

Reprint with Permission from the Navarre Press

F irefighters from Barnett Crossroads

Volunteer Fire Department traveled to Navarre Beach to pick up the keys to a 2007 fire engine, which formerly served as Engine 49 for Navarre Beach Fire Rescue Department. The week prior, Barnett Crossroads Chief R yan Reaves had reached out to Navarre Beach Fire Chief, Danny Fureigh via email regarding the 2007 engine that was up for sale.

The 2007 engine was replaced with a new Engine 49, which Navarre Beach Fire recently held a “push in” ceremony for on March 25. With no need for the older model engine, Navarre Beach Fire decided to sell it.

The engine Barnett Crossroads has been using is a 1994 E-One pumper. Reaves said the engine has severe rust damage to its undercarriage.

The 1994 pumper was originally meant to be a backup for another engine, a 2004 International single cab pumper, but the 2004 engine was damaged in an accident while it was on its way toBarnett Crossroads, and the department has been struggling to maintain it ever since.

Barnett Crossroads currently has around $2,438 in their bank account and can barely afford equipment much less a new engine. Reaves said they have largely relied on grants to fund new personal protective equipment for firefighters and pay the bills.

“We survive off $18,000 a year, $10,000 of

that automatically goes to our insurance, leaving us with $8,000,” Reaves said. “We can’t afford to keep the lights on sometimes.”

Barnett Crossroads serves a 52-square-mile portion of northeastern Escambia County, Alabama, which includes part of Interstate 65. Most of the calls they get are wrecks on the interstate, vehicle fires, and grass fires. With so many calls along the interstate, Reaves and the rest of the firefighters were in dire need of a reliable engine.

Upon hearing about Barnett Crossroads’ plight, Fureigh and others with Navarre Beach Fire discussed the idea of donating the truck to them.

To make that happen, Fureigh went before the Navarre Beach Leaseholders at one of

their meetings and asked if the community would support them donating the engine. The leaseholders gave their approval and Navarre Beach Fire decided to go ahead with the plan.

“This is a huge asset to not just us but all of Escambia County (Alabama),” Reaves said. “This is big deal. We are extremely grateful for the folks here at Navarre Beach.”

The engine Barnett Crossroads received holds up to 1,000 gallons of water, which is a positive in the department’s rural coverage area where there are very few fire hydrants.

In addition to the engine, Navarre Beach Fire threw in several pieces of equipment to help bolster the volunteer department. That included a pickaxe, Halligan bar, several ground ladders, spotlights, and hoses.

Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association 2023 Annual Memorial Service

The FFCA will be honoring all Five-Bugle Fire Chiefs and FFCA members who have passed away within the past year. The annual memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 16, during 2023 Executive Development Conference (EDC) taking place at Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive in Naples.

The following is the current list of Five Bugle Fire Chiefs and members who have passed away:

Calling All Crafters and Artisans!

Daryle Blankenship, Battalion Chief, Titusville Fire Department

Regi Burkett, Fire Chief-Ret, Century Station, Escambia County Fire Rescue

Edwin Castro, Fire Chief-Ret, Key West

Thomas Davis, Fire Chief-Ret, Tallahassee Fire Department

Lloyd Fleming, Fire Chief-Ret, Pensacola Fire Department

David Halstead, Director - Ret, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM)

Paul Hoffmon, Fire Chief-Ret, Seminole Fire Rescue

James McConnell, Fire Chief-Ret, Seminole Fire Rescue

Dennis Merrifield, Fire Chief-Ret

Willie Morgan, Fire Chief-Ret, Groveland

Wayne Watts, Fire Chief-Ret, Panama City Fire Department

Michael Wright, Fire Chief-Ret, Niceville

The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Foundation is accepting donations for the upcoming silent auction which will be held at the 2023 Executive Development Conference in Naples on July 14-18. The silent auction is the largest fundraiser of the year for the foundation, and all proceeds go to provide educational opportunities, including scholarships, to fire and emergency services professionals, as well as future firefighting candidates. We know we have some very talented members, and these creative arts and crafts have been popular with our bidders in the past, so we would like to include them again this year. If you are interested in donating to the silent auction, or to learn more about the foundation and silent auction, visit the website clicking on this link: www.ourfundraiser.link/EDC2023SilentAuctionor contact Liz Aperauch at liz@ffca.org.

Panama City Beach Fire Rescue

Panama City Beach Fire Rescue

Responds Commercial Structure Fire

Responds Commercial Structure Fire

ByTerry Parris, Division Chief, Panama City Beach Fire Rescue

On April 25 around 2:35am

Panama City Beach Fire

Rescue responded automatic aid to Bay County Emergency Services for a large commercial structure fire in the River Camps subdivision.

Crews arrived on scene to find the HOA pool house, pool bathroom, storage shed, pool pavilion, gym,

clubhouse, and maintenance buildings heavily involved in fire. Although all the buildings were a complete loss totaling in the millions of dollars, there were no injuries. The fire is suspicious in nature and currently under investigation by both the State Fire Marshal and Bay County Sheriff’s Offices.

Palm Coast Fire Department Celebrates Golden Anniversary

By Patrick J.

The Palm Coast Fire Department marked its 50th anniversary with a special kick-off celebration event at Fire Station 21 on Saturday, April 22, 2023. The event was attended by community members, elected officials, and department members, both past and present, who gathered to celebrate this significant milestone.

The Palm Coast Fire Department was founded on April 3, 1973, when thirty-six volunteers decided that they would answer the call to respond to fire and emergency medical calls. They initially responded from the cart barn at the Palm Harbor Golf Club and responded to two calls for service the first year. The total county population was 4,454. Today the department is a combination department that responded to over 13,444 calls for service in 2022 from five fire stations.

State Representative and Speaker of the House Paul Renner offered introductory remarks in which he thanked the service of the Palm Coast Fire Department.“We know that you always have our back; at the legislature, we always have yours,” stated Speaker Renner.A letter from Governor Ron DeSantis was read aloud by Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin in which it stated, “As the parent of three young children, the First Lady and I appreciate the first responders who work day and night to keep our communities safe. Thank you for your unwavering service and sacrifice to the community and our great state.”

Mayor Alfin expressed his admiration for the Palm Coast Fire Department for their brave deeds, noble qualities, courage, and heroism as they perform under the most intense, stressful conditions.“In times of crisis, the Palm Coast Fire Department has always been there to step

up and provide critical support,” stated Mayor Alfin. “Whether responding to hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, or other major disasters, the department has played a critical role in emergency response and recovery efforts, helping to keep our community safe and resilient.”

There were several special presentations, including the dedication of the fire department’s second pumper purchased in 1978, a 1959 American LaFrance engine. The fire engine was returned to the Palm Coast Fire Department after nearly three decades of service to neighboring departments and communities. The American LaFrance is planned to be restored so that it will be used for community events, fire prevention, and fallen firefighter funerals.

Additionally, Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky, president of the Palm Coast Historical Society, presented a Garfield firefighter poster signed by the cartoonist Jim Daviscommemorating the bravery and dedication of the volunteers of the Palm Coast Volunteer Fire Department who fought the 1985 wildfires. This poster will be proudly on display at the Palm Coast Community Center for the community to enjoy. A plethora of Palm Coast Fire Department history is currently on display at the Palm Coast Historical Society, located in James F. Holland Memorial Park at18 Florida Park Dr N.

Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill spoke of the department’s pride, especially from the members past and present who joined in the day’s celebration. “For those who came before – I hope you are proud of what we have become

and where we are headed. To our current firefighters and department members – I am extremely proud of your daily actions, your courage, your character, and your capacity,” stated Chief Berryhill.“Each and every day, you set out to deliver the best service to our community, and your commitment to that standard drives the outpouring of support we feel today and every day from our citizens”.

Concluding the celebration was the unveiling of a time capsule containing department member portraits, pre-plans of the original fire station, and building designs of the newest fire engine. Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark spoke about the time capsule, saying, “This time capsule serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our firefighters, past and present. It will remind future generations of the sacrifices made by those who came before us and inspire them to continue the proud tradition of service to our community.”

The Palm Coast Fire Department’s 50thanniversary celebration was a memorable event that celebrated the department’s history, achievements, and commitment to serving the community. The department looks forward to additional celebrations throughout the year to mark its Golden Anniversary.

Juliano, Lieutenant Paramedic, FirePublic Information Officer, Palm Coast Fire Department

Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue April Promotions

During the month of April, the Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue made several promotions to the ranks of Captain, Lieutenant, and Driver Engineer. All members who apply for and compete in a promotional process spend several months studying and practicing from various sources including the agency’s policy and procedure manual, standard operating guidelines, and the EMS protocols prior to the knowledge and performance-based testing.

Dermatology Office Screens TFD Personnel

By Gregory G. Sutton, Battalion Chief of Administration

Keriea Bean, APRN-C and staff from Water's Edge Dermatology provided skin cancer screenings free of charge to our personnel. This started as a conversation had at our city health fair and culminated with them offering to make time to provide free screenings to our members. Did you know that firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer than the general U.S. population, and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer? We take seriously and understand the importance of being proactive and instituting cancer prevention practices for our personnel. Thank you again to the staff of Water's Edge Dermatology for joining with us in the fight against cancer.

East Lake Water Safety & Hands-Only CPR

By Claudia Hernandez, Fire and Life Safety Educator

East Lake Fire Rescue attended the 16thAnnual Rotary Club of East Lake Sunrise Cruisin the Park Community Festival & Car Show on April 29 at John Chesnut Sr Park. This event is also in collaboration with the John Geigle YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day. During this event, the Fire and Life Safety Educator distributed water safety bags that included a water watcher badge to help prevent drownings.Event attendees were also able to practice hands-only CPR on a mannequin and check out East Lake Fire Rescue’s newest apparatus, Rescue 57!“We had a wonderful time at this well attended event! We were very happy to have the opportunity to share drowning prevention materials with so many community members.We look forward to attending this event once again next year!” said Fire and Life Safety Educator, Mrs. Hernandez.

Dixie County Promotional Ceremony

By Mandy Lemmermen,

Battalion Chief, Public Information Officer

On Tuesday, March 14, 2023, our department held its 2023 Promotional Pinning Ceremony. During the event, Dixie County Fire Rescue promoted three Battalion Chiefs and three Lieutenants. The promotions were a great accomplishment for the newly promoted officers and were also a muchneeded addition to the department to accommodate the growth and progression of the agency.

Also, during the event, Dixie County’s newly formed Honor Guard Team, had the privilege of presenting the Colors and received recognition for their “Above and Beyond” dedication to the department.

Dixie County Fire Rescue would also like to acknowledge Chief Matt Garbett, with Suwannee County Fire Rescue. Chief Garbett graciously supported our Honor Guard Team by playing the bagpipes for the event.

Members Promoted: Battalion Chief Mandy Lemmermen, Battalion Chief Andy English, Battalion Chief Matthew Salmons, Lieutenant Ira Hayes, Lieutenant Jarrod Hammond, and Lieutenant Jonathan Waters.

371stBaby Safely Surrendered in Florida

In of this year A Safe Haven for Newborns announced the 371st surrendered infant was safely and directly transferred to a fire station in the Florida Panhandle.

A young mother made the difficult choice to directly hand over her baby over to a trained professional.The firefighters were able to make a rapid assessment of both the child and mother’s needs. They determined both were safe and healthy, then transported the baby to a local hospital for further assessment and begin the adoption process.

Under Florida’s Safe Haven law an unharmed infant, seven days or younger, may be left with a trained professional at a hospital or fire station in total anonymity without fear of prosecution. A Safe Haven for Newborns does not announce the location or date of the transfer as it respects the mother’s anonymity as provided for in the law.

To date A Safe Haven for Newborns has assisted in securing 371 babies in 40 Florida counties, other states, and countries around the world.Babies have been safely and directly placed in the hands of trained professionals at 79 fire stations and 284 hospitals across the State.

East Lake Middle School Wins Extra Mile Award

By Claudia Hernandez, Fire and Life Safety Educator

East Lake Fire Rescue has been attending the East Lake Middle School’s Walk/Bike to School event for over five years. This event is hosted monthly at the East Lake Campus Calvary Church.Students can be dropped off or can ride/walk to the church about an hour before school begins and are able to play a variety of games, enjoy a free breakfast, and obtain a safety message from the East Lake Fire Rescue Fire and Life Safety Educator, Mrs. Hernandez. Mrs. Hernandez also provides free bicycle helmets and bicycle lights to all attendees who need them. This year, East Lake Middle School was awarded the Safe Kids Extra Mile Award by Judge Grube.East Lake Fire Rescue is extremely proud of the efforts from both the middle school and the Calvar y Church in hosting this event each month.

New Smyrna Beach Promotional Ceremony

By Lieutenant Mike Greene, Public Information Officer

On April 7, New Smyrna Beach Fire Department held a promotional ceremony to recognize our recently promoted personnel. With family and friends in attendance, seven personnel were pinned to signify their newly attained rank. The promotions were achieved through the hard work and study of the employee and the support of family and friends. Congratulations to all seven promoted NSBFD personnel on your professional achievements.

Pictured L-R: Driver/Engineer JD West, Driver/Engineer Cory Hames, Lieutenant Don Smith, Lieutenant Brandon Hazelwood, Lieutenant Kyle Troian, Driver/Engineer Shane Beckman, and Driver/Engineer Brighton Weeks.

Brevard County Crews Recognized by Survivor

By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS

During a ceremony held on April 18 at Station 22, Lieutenant Fire Medic Mark Sutton, FM James Krause, FM Todd Facemyer, FM Eric Chiesa, FF/EMT Brandon Frosch, and Brevard County Deputy Sheriffs were recognized by Fire Chief Voltaire, AC Dominguez, Medical Director Dr. McPherson, Back Brevard Heroes, along with the patient and his wife on their excellent lifesaving skills. On February 18, 2023, Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) units responded to a medical emergency involving 58-yearold male who went into sudden cardiac while sleeping. His wife knew she needed to act fast and quickly called 9-1-1 for help. On the phone line, Emergency Vehicle Dispatchers provided vital instructions to the wife until BCFR units arrived on scene. While on scene BCFR worked diligently to resuscitate the patient.After performing high-quality CPR and rapid defibrillation the patient had a successful Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC). As a result of all of their actions the patient was released from the hospital, neurologically intact. Outstanding job and excellent teamwork!

Knights of Inferno Firefighter Motorcycle Club Celebrates International Firefighters Day

ByPatrick J. Juliano, Lieutenant Paramedic, FirePIO

On International Firefighter’s Day, the Palm Coast Fire Department received a heartfelt gesture from the Knights of Inferno Firefighter Motorcycle Club. This day is annually celebrated on May 4 in honor of St. Florian, widely recognized as the Patron Saint of Firefighters. Legend has it that St. Florian saved a village from destruction by putting out a massive fire using only a single bucket of water

To express their gratitude towards the hardworking crew, the Knights of Inferno Motorcycle Club of Palm Coast provided dinner for the on-duty firefighters. According to Joe Vece, President of the Knights of Inferno Firefighter Motorcycle Club, “We wanted to do something special to show our appreciation.” The club welcomes active or retired firefighters, EMS, military service members, OEM members, their families, and select friends who enjoy riding motorcycles. Their mission is to ride in memory of their fallen club brothers, as well as all fallen and injured emergency and military service members, while also offering any possible assistance.

Light the Night for Firefighter Brant Gammon

By Patrick J. Juliano, Lieutenant Paramedic, PIO

The Palm Coast Fire Department participated in the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation Light the Night by inviting the community to light up their homes, businesses, and community in red for fallen firefighters.

As dusk turned to dark, landmarks, homes, fire service organizations, and businesses across the country glowed red in respect to the fallen and their families. Palm Coast City Hall, the Palm Coast Community Center, the fountains throughout the community, and all five fire stations were illuminated red.

This year the Palm Coast Fire Department lights the night for Fallen Firefighter Brant Gammon, who passed away on November 3, 2022. Firefighter-Paramedic Gammon began his career with the Palm Coast Fire Department in 2018 as a volunteer firefighter.He joined the ranks of the career staff in October 2020 as a Firefighter-EMT; he was promoted to paramedic shortly before he passed away.

Dixie County Completes Second RIT Training Facility

By Matthew Ferguson, Administrative Chief and Mandy Lemmermen, Battalion Chief, Public Information Officer

Recently, Dixie County completed its second RIT training facility that will be housed at Dixie County Fire Rescue Station 2 in Old Town, Fl. Upon completion of the second RIT facility, Dixie County Fire Rescue made the decision to assemble a RIT Competition Team that will be led by Battalion Chief Mandy Lemmermen, Firefighter/Paramedic David Hallman, and Firefighter William Garner. This team will lead trainings within the department to advance the search & rescue and RIT operations capabilities for the department which will in turn increase firefighter safety as well as the safety of the citizens of the county. The team plans to compete at the Florida Fire Conference in Januar y against other teams in the State.

Pinellas Park Paramedic Honored as EMS Professional of the Year

By Suzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator

Please join us in congratulating Pinellas Park Firefighter/Paramedic Craig Brown on being selected the 2023 Pinellas County Emergency Medical Services

Paramedic of the Year!

On May 9, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners recognized Craig for his quick actions during a difficult medical call that saved the lives of a mother and baby. Craig has been with Pinellas Park Fire Department since April of 2022 and in that short time, he has proven himself to be a dedicated and hard-working

individual. We are proud to have him on our team providing excellent ser vice to our community.

Martin County Named Beach Patrol of the Year

By Cory Pippin, Community Relations Liaison

Martin County Fire Rescue’s Ocean Rescue Department has been named Beach Patrol of the Year for 2022 by the Florida Beach Patrol Chiefs’ Association.

The extremely competitive award considered the department’shigh employment standards and lifesaving operations, which include EMT certification, extensive training, beach rescue equipment, public safety education, community events, and consistent progressive changes.

Ocean Rescue Chief Ian Montgelas accepted the award at a Martin County Board of County Commission meeting earlier this year.

Celebrating Telecommunications Week

By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS

During the week of, April 9-15, 2023, Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) honored their dispatchers for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. This recognition is held annually during the second week of April to honor our public safety telecommunicators for their commitment, service, and sacrifices they make for our community and visitors every day. Our 9-1-1 Dispatchers are our first, First Responders, the unsung heroes behind the scene, it all starts with them. Throughout the week several members from BCFR and the community stopped by to show their appreciation which included, the Office of EMS, Back Brevard Heroes, AT&T,and Communication International (CI) with food and baskets as a gesture of appreciation. Communications Manager Imelda Valdez-King prepared meals and provided special gifts to her staff. THANK YOU for all you do, we appreciate all of you!!

East Lake Fire Rescue Prom Promise

By Claudia Hernandez, Fire and Life Safety Educator

East Lake Fire Rescue stopped by East Lake High School the day before their Prom to share prom safety tips.The Fire and Life Safety Educator was able to obtain materials to distribute through AAA, including highlighters, string bags, air fresheners, and reusable water bottles. Students were also able to sign a big poster after making the AAA Prom Promise: I promise not to drink alcohol or take drugs, I promise not to drive impaired or distracted, I promise not to let my friends drive impaired or distracted, I promise my parents I will get home safely or call them for help.This poster was then hung in their school for the rest of the day.

Flagler County Fire Rescue Supports Fundraiser

On April 22, 2023,the Flagler Titans football and Cheerleading Pop Warner group held a car wash fundraiser in the county.Flagler County Fire Rescue’sWildfire Management team came out to support these young men and ladies. The team brought out one of its wildfire attack trucks for the kids wash. Team member and FF/PM Christopher Ellis was at the event. Ellis stated, “from start to finish, everyone enjoyed our presence”. It was a great opportunity for FCFR and the Wildfire Management team to support the local community. The kids got an opportunity to learn about and explore a different fire apparatus that they don’t usually get the chance to see. Ellis stated that he looks forward to many more opportunities to showcase Flagler County’s Wildfire Team.

Submitting Articles

Please submit your article as a MS word document and include a high resolution jpeg image as an attachment (do not embed photo in document). Try to keep submissions under 300 words if possible. E-mail files and pics to: magazine@ffca.org. If you have an interesting topic that would be informative or entertaining to other departments - feel free to write a feature article for this magazine, we welcome all your submissions! All articles must have a title or headline and a byline as part of the article (please note format in above briefs) - if no byline is supplied- the article will run without.

Help Keep Florida Safe - Enforce Safe Digging Practices

By Wendy Schaefer, Education & Awareness Manager, Sunshine 811

New buildings. New houses. New roads. Florida continues to be one of the nation’s leaders when it comes to construction activity. And that level of activity will continue to grow exponentially given new home building trends and billions of dollars of new federal infrastructure dollars and projects being infused into the state.

With this unprecedented level of excavation and shovels-in-the-ground construction activity, it’s critical that enforcement entities – from fire departments to police and sheriffs to code enforcement — understand their important role in ensuring compliance with Florida Statute 556 – a law to protect our underground infrastructure and citizen safety.

Digging safely and enforcing safe digging practices have never been more important, especially considering the level of damage that’s happening now and has the potential to increase significantly if greater damage prevention and enforcement actions are not taken.

Sixty-six times each day in Florida, an underground utility line is damaged by failure to follow the safe digging process. That’s 24,000 times per year that excavation activity damages buried power, water, gas, internet, and other utility lines across the state – costing

billions of dollars that can result in service interruptions, potential injuries or even worse. Already this year, excavation damages have caused water main breaks, damaged telecommunication lines and gas line leaks in communities such as Daytona, Tampa, and Duval County.

Fire personnel as well as code, local, and state law enforcement have likely responded to incidents like these where crews or homeowners inadvertently damaged an underground line that caused service disruptions, road closures, evacuations, and even serious injuries.

The reality is a majority of these damages come from two common violations: failing to contact 811 before digging (a state law) and failing to accurately mark underground utilities or mark them on time. Both carry fines from $500 to $2,500. If a serious incident occurs to underground lines transporting gas, flammable, or toxic materials, those fines can be as high as $50,000.

Sunshine 811, a member of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, is at the heart of the work to make Florida the safest place to dig. The organization, created by the Florida Legislature 30 years ago, connects excavators to utilities through a 24/7 online system and toll-free

number so that buried lines can be appropriately marked. It also offers comprehensive educational resources on safe digging.

The organization’s ultimate goal is to ensure public safety, protect underground infrastructure, and prevent damages and disasters from occurring. To accomplish this, Sunshine 811 works with dozens of organizations and partners throughout the state, including fire and enforcement entities, to ensure enforcement of Florida’s safe digging law.

Non-compliance and violations include not having a valid locate ticket, failure to locate and mark buried or submerged lines, and failure to stop digging when an underground utility is contacted.

In Florida, enforcement for protecting our underground infrastructure falls under the Florida Fire Marshal’s office. However, every local and state code and law enforcement body and fire department has a role in monitoring, investigating and issuing citations to violators of the Statute. Working together proactively, we can stop preventable incidents from occurring and keep Florida safe.

For more information, visit www.sunshine811.com

advertisers index

The#1GloveInFire®

BigJakeFireGloveGauntlet

Model#5283 (pictured)Model#5281 (wristlet)

Thisgauntletstylecuffoffersbettergripandlessfatigue by combiningauniqueelk&cowhideleathertwo-piece

Flex24-7FireGloveGauntlet

Model#5285 (pictured)Model#5284 (wristlet)

ShelbyFireGloveGauntlet

Model#5228 (pictured)Model#5227 (wristlet)

ShelbyXtrication ®

Model#2500 (pictured)

ZIPPEREDSTORAGEPOCKET