Florida Fire Service Magazine - December 2024

THE PUBLICATION OF THE FLORIDA FIRE CHIEFS’ ASSOCIATION

December 2023 • VOLUME 31 NUMBER 12

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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

FROM THE SECTIONS Message from the FFCA President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Message from the Foundation Chair . . . . . . . . . . . .10

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10 FEATURES

FFCA Staff Ngoc Huynh - Interim Executive Director Denise Holley - Office Manager

FFCA Board of Directors Harold Theus - President Michael Choate - 1st Vice President Trip Barrs - 2nd Vice President Douglas Riley - Immediate Past President Carlos Aviles - Secretary/Treasurer Ryan H. Crawford - Northwest Region Director Brady Rigdon - Northeast Region Director Michael Johansmeyer - East Central Region Director Chantal Botting - Southeast Region Director Ian Kemp - West Central Region Director Gregory DeWitt - Southwest Region Director Ngoc Huynh - Interim Executive Director 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 December 2023, Volume 31, Number 12 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.

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Is Your Department Ready for the Next Generation of Firefighters? . . . . . 14 Firefighter Cancer: How Bad is the Problem? . . . . . . . . . 18 Disconnected: Lost Peer Support in the Firehouse . . . . . . 34 Chaos to Coordination . . . . . . . . 40

FURTHERMORE They Don’t Care How Much You Know, Until They Know How Much You Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Pinellas Park Firefighters Shop for Charity . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Department Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . 16 Florida Fire Conference . . . . . . . . 20 Poster Contest Inspires South Walton Students to Learn Fire Safety . . . 30 Fire Station Dedication Honoring Fallen Firefighter . . . . . . . . . . . 32 High Rise Regional Training Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Sarasota County and USCG Partnerships Strengthen Through Training . . . . . . . . . . . 40 In brief . . . news from around the state . . . . . . . . . . . 44 FFCA New Members . . . . . . . . . 50 Featured Vendor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Advertisers Index . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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Hi all, hope all is well.

I hope that everyone has had a wonderful holiday season. The Florida Fire Conference is upon us now, and we are very excited about this new opportunity, in a new city, with a new focus of meeting the needs of our fire service membership. We believe that we will be able to build upon the success of this conference into future opportunities.

The next two months will be very busy as we work with our legislature to ensure that

fire service employees and volunteers are taken care of throughout the State of Florida.

I would encourage all of you to visit the FFCA website so that you can remain up-to-date with changing legislation.

As of the writing of this letter, the board is working on several decisions that will greatly impact the present and future of the FFCA. We look forward to making those announcements and to what the future holds for all of us.

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They Don’t Care How Much You Know, Until They Know How Much You Care

By Rick Spence

O

ver my years in the fire service, I have noticed some things that seem strange to me. Just because I don’t understand them, doesn’t mean they are wrong; it’s just something that does not make sense to me. I have seen some of the best incident commanders and tactically skilled people who excel on the fire ground. But what perplexes me is there are a lot of people who do not want to work on their crews. Perhaps it is anecdotal, but these same leaders are very difficult to get along with, both on and off the job. It seems to me that firefighters would rather work alongside someone who they can get along with, than someone who is highly skilled at successfully managing and mitigating fire/rescue incidents. I have also seen situations where some fire chiefs do a good job of expanding their department with increased personnel, stations and equipment, and they too seem to struggle in being appreciated in their job. They also have the perception of being difficult to get along with.

This is something that I have not understood since I was a rookie firefighter. You would think that people would want to work for someone who does an outstanding job on critical incidents and is looking to grow and improve the department. But the social aspect of the job seems to frequently outweigh the opportunity to work with someone who is technically good at their job, but difficult to deal with. People seem to prefer to work for someone who can get along

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with others and not have to deal with some of the conflict and issues that seem to follow these strong on-scene leaders. The one common phase I hear is ‘they don’t care about me/us, so I don’t want to work with them.’ My response to that is that I believe they DO care about the people working for and alongside them, which is why they do a good job in managing fire situations. You cannot do this job unless you care about other people. The problem these leaders have is difficulty showing they care about the people they work with, hence the reluctance of others to work with them.

For me, someone who will talk to a fencepost as long as it occasionally nods its head, taking interest in others comes naturally. For someone else who is an introvert, or is not comfortable being in social settings, it is a challenge for them to show others they truly care. There are many classes, books, and podcasts to help introverts better fit in a social setting. It may be something they never truly feel comfortable doing, but there are skills they can learn to getting along better with those around them. A simple conversation about someone’s family or outside interest is a good starter. People love talking about their families, their hobbies and their lives outside the fire service. It could help overcome the stigma of not caring for your fellow firefighters when you show genuine interest in them as a person.

This is something that all leaders in the fire service are going to need to do more frequently; take more interest in those who work alongside them and for them. The latest generation of firefighters are motivated in much different ways

than previous firefighters were. We need to find a way to reach these younger firefighters if we want them to stay in the profession. We must do something different than what we are currently doing. Just about every fire department in the state is struggling with recruiting and retaining employees, so we need to change some of our attitudes and tactics. By openly showing we care about those we work with, we can help reinvigorate the camaraderie that the fire service is known for.

The Apostle Paul put it best in his first letter to the church in Corinth. He wrote, “If I speak with the tongues of men and angels, but do not love others, I am a noisy gong or clanging cymbal.” (1st Corinthians 13:1) He compares our words spoken without love to the noise a clanging cymbal makes. My grandfather used to say it like this, “an empty wagon makes a lot of noise.” We must show people how much we care, not just how much we know.

Merry Christmas

Rick Spence retired as Assistant Chief from the Reedy Creek Fire Department after 30 years. He is 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 over 30 years.

James White, CFO Foundation Chair

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y gosh, where did 2023 go? I know everyone is saying that with the end to the global pandemic people are getting back to what’s being called a new normal. So, what is your new normal going to be for 2024? I know in the White household the new normal is Jim working from the home office and traveling several times a month, moving the process along for the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.

With my current job I regularly cross-paths with many awesome departments and fire chiefs from around the country. The one thing I see in common with most of you is that the definition of “new normal” still remains under construction.

I’ve shared that over the past several months I feel the mission of the great American fire service also remains under construction and that the work of our firefighters remains as challenging as ever. New risks, processes, techniques, and problems are continuing to force change.

The one thing that hasn’t changed is that firefighting is not a “work

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from home” occupation. It’s a real participation job. So, in this time of real change in the work environment how are fire chiefs recruiting and retaining the best of the best?

As a fire chief myself for many years, I was often asked by young candidates, what should I do to get hired? What certifications do I need? Should I go to college and get my degree? Should I go to paramedic school? What exactly are fire chiefs looking for in a good candidate? Only several years ago, those answers were fairly easy. Keep yourself clean, no criminal record, do well in school, and stay out of trouble. I don’t think these answers work too well today. Unfortunately, many of our young people aren’t seeing the fire service as something they want to do with their lives. So, what happened and what are we doing about recruiting and retaining the best?

Some fire chiefs have indicated they have explored new opportunities for today’s candidates. They are reaching back into their communities with recruiting efforts that include bonuses and incentives to apply. Others are now feeling the need to lower their standards and other personal requirements. This is not good for anyone, or for the fire service in general. So, what’s the solution?

Unfortunately, there’s not a magic pill to fix the situation we’re in.

Chiefs are using a multi-faceted approach to the problem, based on their needs and available resources. It’s often hard to stay the course in these rough waters. This is where the help of your partners in the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Foundation can help. It’s time to reach out and see what is working for others. It’s time to get involved with the FFCA and share your ideas so that others may benefit from your successes and challenges. Working together will help to ensure the high-quality individuals needed for the next generation of the fire service.

One thing you can do to remain engaged with your association is to attend and contribute to the activities available at the new Florida Fire Conference. Come, bring your ideas, and learn where others have had success in securing those new firefighters. Safe travels to all and I hope to see you at the Conference in Orlando.

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Pinellas Park Firefighters Shop for Charity

By Suzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator, Pinellas Park Fire Department Twas the eve of Thanksgiving and all throughout Publix, lots of people were shopping…including a large contingent of firefighters from Pinellas Park FD! Store customers watched in amazement as a long line of shopping carts snaked its way up and down each aisle followed by firefighters, friends, family, and fire department staff methodically checking their lists and filling each cart for a family in need. This year, ten families received turkeys and all the trimmings

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for a traditional holiday dinner – plus enough for leftovers! This annual shopping spree is a decades long tradition and is just one of many charitable works by the Pinellas Park Firefighters Benevolent Fund.

According to a spokesperson for Pinellas Park Firefighters Local 2193, answering the call for help doesn’t stop when their shift ends. “For many of our L2193 members, they go above and beyond for our community and local charities throughout the year. We are honored and passionate that we are provided the opportunities to do so.”

The Benevolent Fund was created over 30 years ago by Local 2193 members as a way to help area families who may be struggling during the holidays or need assistance after a fire. Firefighters hold various events throughout the year to raise money for the fund and other local charitable causes.

Thank you to all the participants!

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Visit us at WWW.FFCA.ORG

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By Ben Rigney

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any fire departments are facing recruitment and retention challenges.

The multiple retirements of Baby Boomers and Generation X firefighters over the next few years, coupled with rapid community growth, are all reasons that require hiring additional firefighters. As Generation Z enters the workforce, it is becoming the most global, diverse, technological, and entrepreneurial generation.

Generation Z has lived to experience the reshaping of the American social landscape.

Key identified events on Generation Z’s timeline include the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, climate change, catastrophic hurricanes, the Boston Marathon Bombing, multiple school shootings, social media, the Great Recession, the acceptance of same-sex marriages, the election of the first black president, and COVID-19. There is hateful and divisive rhetoric surrounding each of these events, which Generation Z has experienced within their lifetime. A recent study conducted by Dr. Daryl Green showed that 58% of Generation Z are either somewhat or very worried about the future.

Generation Z has experienced education differently than previous generations. Being immersed in technology from a young age, this generation prefers to utilize technology such as YouTube or other online tutorials to choose when and what courses to take. In addition, this generation is ambitious, independent, focused on personal development, and tends

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to focus on study methods that connect to real life. Include Generation Z in developing new programs and tasks as they may have technological ideas that can be more productive. This generation does not accept the phrase, “This is how it’s always been done.”

They constantly look to change and make things more efficient. Welcoming and encouraging change within the fire service is vital to maintaining these employees.

Communication is the most critical activity for Generation Z. Because of technological advances and social media platforms, individuals in this generational group expect always to be on and available. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others are used as a form of social connection, relationship building, and in-person connection. Having online and in-person communications, Generation Z manages multiple identities, with one “real life” identity and many other online ones.

Generation Z firefighters are looking for a sense of belonging. This generation wants to be welcomed and utilized or will seek employment elsewhere. This generation is hungry for a positive environment focused on team building. The natural tendency is to complain about the upcoming generation.

While it may seem to be in good fun, the animosity that complaining can create may cause newer generations to leave. Continue to focus on each individual’s traits and utilize them to better the fire service. Set them up for

success. When positively motivated, they will push themselves to seek the approval and respect that they desperately desire.

Finally, create an environment of selfactualized, creative decision-makers utilizing their natural abilities to affect the community positively. Utilizing Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, one must achieve the physiological, safety, belongingness, love, and esteem needs to achieve self-actualization. At selfactualization, the individual’s self-needs are put aside in favor of service to others. While it is recognized that each person is unique and has the potential to affect our community in different ways positively, they must first take care of their own needs and advance through Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Everyone in the fire service has different values and traits.

Encourage them, no matter what generation they belong to, so that they can utilize their values and traits to make a difference.

Ben Rigney serves as the Fire Chief for West Manatee Fire and Rescue District and has nearly 18 years of fire service experience. Chief Rigney is a graduate of the U.S. Fire Administration's Executive Fire Officer Program, has a Master's Degree in Public Administration, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.

Chief Rigney serves as the Manatee County Fire Chiefs Association's President and co-owner of an online training provider, JBFires.com. He is passionate about assisting others in accomplishing their professional and personal goals.

Visit us at WWW.FFCA.ORG

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DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT

ixie County Fire Rescue is an all-hazards department in the Big Bend area of Florida that provides emergency responses over 703 square miles to a resident

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population of approximately 18,000. Dixie County Fire Rescue consists of several divisions. These divisions are EMS, Fire Operations, 911, Emergency Management, Community Paramedicine, Inspections/Prevention, Public Education, and a Search and Rescue Dive Team.

Currently, Dixie County Fire Rescue operates out of three paid stations and four volunteer stations but is in the process of building a 10-

person, four-bay station in Cross City as well as an eight-person, three-bay station in Old Town. Dixie County’s command structure is led by Chief Darian Brown and consists of three Division chiefs, three Battalion Chiefs, and four Lieutenants. The department strives to be a progressive rural agency that provides exceptional patient care and aggressive firetactics. For more information visit www.dixieemergency.com.

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By Julius E. Halas

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was fortunate to earn my Executive Fire Officer certification at the National Fire Academy 30 years ago. I have been hearing about Firefighter cancer concerns for most of that time. As a former Fire Chief and former Director of the State Fire Marshal’s Office in Florida, and a big advocate of firefighter safety and health for most of my 49 years in the fire service, I wanted to be part of the solution and not part of the problem.

However, following a comprehensive Lifescan examination in June of 2014, it was determined that I was suffering from a rare type of Leukemia, which if left untreated would most likely be fatal within just a few months.

Over the next few months, while I was receiving targeted testing and treatment, I

began to

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witness firsthand the horrific impacts of cancer in the fire service. Although a concerted effort was underway to better understand and mitigate the impact of firefighter cancer, excessively many of our colleagues were being diagnosed with various types of this deadly affliction.

Then, last year I was again diagnosed with head and neck cancer which was classified as category 3-B with extra nodal extension.

Simply said, I was faced with some horrible news and had some serious medical decisions that needed to be made in rapid sequence.

With so much coming at me and many of my colleagues in the fire service, I really began to ask…”Just how bad is the problem of firefighter cancer?”

In the State of Florida, firefighter cancer has certainly had a negative effect on far too many retirees and active fire service personnel. According to Mary Ann Benson who serves as the administrative assistant to the Superintendent of the Florida State Fire College, the Florida Joint Council of Fire and Emergency Service Organizations has had to add numerous names to the Fallen Firefighter Memorial monuments. Many of these unfortunate names represent those firefighters who gave the ultimate sacrifice by losing their life, which was attributed directly to firefighter cancer pursuant to Florida Statute 112.1816 that was adopted by the Legislature in 2019.

No names were added in 2020 due to COVID-19 restricting the memorial services that year, however, since that time, ten names were added in 2021, seven more in 2022, and another sixteen names were recently added on November 17, 2023.

Unfortunately, the numbers reflect over thirty firefighters losing their lives due to statutorily defined firefighter cancer since the Bill was adopted.

Despite this, numerous other retirees and active firefighters are currently fighting cancer throughout our State! Certainly, many efforts are being made to

address the growing problem of firefighter cancer in Florida, the US and accross the globe. Many fire service conferences are including programs on firefighter cancer and several institutes and research universities are coordinating efforts focused on this complex subject.

For example, in May of 2023, the Florida State Fire College hosted a Firefighter Cancer Awareness and Mental Health Symposium featuring the theme, “Are We Embracing Change?” This full day of presentations included several dynamic and knowledgeable speakers. Representing the research team at the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center was Dr. Natasha Solle. Dr. Solle shared important updates on the various research accomplishments, which have resulted in large part from over ten million dollars of Grant funds they have received from the Florida Legislature over the past seven years.

She described important programs that have been developed as they have worked closely with the CFO/State Fire Marshal, the IAFF, NIOSH, the Florida Firefighter Health and Safety Collaborative, the FACE Team and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Dr. Solle also discussed the importance of direct interaction with numerous Florida fire service agencies and over eight thousand firefighters with training, testing, screenings, and medical care, which also includes a firefighter survivorship program.

I had the privilege of moderating a Best Practices Roundtable later in the day that was kicked off by retired Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief, Sam Eaton, Co-chair of the FACE Team (Firefighters Attacking the Cancer Epidemic). Sam stated that we must all work harder to not only implement firefighter cancer prevention and mitigation techniques, but also to be proactive leaders to ensure that these initiatives are actually being utilized in the field. Moreover, Chief Eaton strongly admonished all of the attendees to promote and verify that procedures at the scene of a working fire are actually occurring in a most consistent and effective manner!

The next few speakers encouraged us to protect all personnel in the fire service who are impacted by firefighter cancer within our profession. Tina O’Brien, Sr. Fire Inspector from Lake Mary Fire-Rescue and Secretary of

the Firefighter Health and Safety Collaborative shared her concerns and asked us to get engaged on a personal level.

Division Chief John Schmidt, who also serves as the Safety Officer for the Pasco County Fire-Rescue agency spoke next. Chief Schmidt shared some moving personal testimonies about the impacts of cancer and then spoke about the importance of comprehensive safety procedures in the field. John stated that far too often firefighters get anxious to get back in service after a working fire that they often get complacent about their own safety and rush through their post-fire, onscene decontamination steps or skip it completely in their haste.

He further explained to the audience how Pasco County implemented a comprehensive decontamination program and even purchased a dedicated fire apparatus known as Decon-One and proudly had the large apparatus on display in the parking lot of the Florida State Fire College where the symposium was hosted. The Decon-One unit is dispatched on every working fire in Pasco County and directly assists with on-scene decon procedures, complete with hundreds of sets of clean turnout gear to do an onscene swap outs. Therefore, all exposed

firefighters are issued clean sets of gear and their dirty gear is recovered on scene to keep it isolated and then get properly cleaned and made available in a timely manner.

The next speaker gave an incredible presentation on firefighter mental wellness and firefighter suicide mitigation and interventions. Lt. Dustin Hawkins who also serves as a Chaplain with the Indian River County Fire-Rescue Department presented this informative and extremely moving dialogue. Dustin shared updates on the progress of the Redline and Blueline rescue technology programs and the clinician awareness and response programs, as well as an introduction to Goldline rescue that will assist our Veterans.

Our final speaker on the roundtable was the new Director of the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal who I had the privilege of working with closely for over a year prior to my retirement a year ago. Director JoAnne Rice shared her perspective on the importance of Mental Wellness and Firefighter Cancer prevention and mitigation techniques. Director Rice stressed how vital it is that we all do our part and that as leaders in the fire service we must ensure that proper safety procedures be developed and issued,

be fully implemented and not be overlooked or even ignored. She challenged us all to fully, embrace change and be leaders within our departments and the State of Florida!

To everyone reading this article I want to challenge you to get personally involved and be part of the solution to this epidemic of firefighter cancer. Moreover, we must ensure that cancer prevention best practices are actually being implemented and most importantly are genuinely occurring within your jurisdiction! Frankly, our lives are depending on you!

Julius E. Halas, CFO, EFO, MS, has served 48 years in the Florida fire service and is a President Emeritus of the FFCA. He has held every rank and was appointed Fire Chief of the Sarasota Fire Department in 1992, then Fire Chief of Longboat Key Fire Department from 1999 thru 2009, and then appointed by the CFO as the Director of the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal and served in that capacity for over 13 years, retiring in November of 2022. Halas is currently a Public Safety Liaison for United Badges Insurance Services.

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Exhibitors CompanyName . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Booth Label 1-800-BOARDUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1346 2nd Alarm Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410 A Safe Haven for Newborns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Advanced CPR Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .621 Aeroclave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1343 AEST Fire & Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .345 Air Methods Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339 AMB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305 Amerimed Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .445 AMWEAR USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1522 ARI-Hetra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1105 Avive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1202 Axe Caps, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .539 B&C TECHNOLOGIES LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .439 Bennett Fire Products Company, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1011 Biltmore Construction Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .325 BK Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307 Blue Line Innovations, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1211 BOS Construction Solutions, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1439 Bound Tree Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1406 Breathing Air Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .402 Carna Bunker Gear LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .331 CDR HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1610 Central Alabama Training Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .532 CET Fire Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1526 Channel Innovations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .723 Charles Perry Partners, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .329 Chemical Containers, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1319 Chief 360 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1426 Children’s Burn Foundation of Florida, Inc. . . . . . . . . .1304 Coastal Rescue Solutions Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1541 Coins By Catania . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1520 Columbia Southern University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .534 Command Counseling Center, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335 Compressed Air Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .708 CORE Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1103 CrewBoss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .538 Darley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1335 Design Lab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .512 Digitech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .513 DOOR ENGINEERING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .530 Dragon Fire Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1523 Drop Consulting Group of Raymond James . . . . . . . . . .518 Eagle Engraving, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .210 Echo Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1404 Electric Sales and Service Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .406 Emergency Networking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .427 Emergency Vehicle Repair, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .627 Emergency Vehicles, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1111 EMS Management and Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1511 Enforcement One Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1416 EPR Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705 ePulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1306 ESO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1329 ETR, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .631 Excellance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1411 Federal Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .317 Fellowship of Christian Firefighters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .430 FERNO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1612 20

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Fire & EMS, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .540 Fire Engineering Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202 Fire Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1331 Fire Neural Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 Fireblast Global . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .613 FireCatt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1108 Firecom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .543 Fire-Dex (Gear Wash) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1009 Firefighters Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .646 Firehouse Dolls Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1538 FIREHOUSEBEDS.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1203 FIRE-TEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .517 First Due . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .423 First Responder’s Coffee Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1438 First Responders Pharmacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .313 FirstNet built by AT&T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1333 Fisher Safety - Thermo Fisher Scientific . . . . . . . . . . . .1001 Five Bugles Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .722 FL Bureau of Radiation Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .429 Florida Antique Bucket Brigade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .542 FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH MQA ISU . . . . . . . . .341 Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .441 Florida EMS for Children Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .443 Florida Firefighter Safety and Health Collaborative . . . .311 Florida MARC System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103 Florida PPE Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1330 Florida Sheriff’s Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .323 Florida State Firefighters Association . . . . . . . . . . . . .1309 Flying Cross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201 Fortress Secured LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .204 Frazer, Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205 Froggy’s Fog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .611 FUN WATERSPORTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1513 Galls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1546 GearGrid Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301 Ged Lawyers, LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .644 Genuine Parts Company dba NAPA Auto Parts . . . . . . .804 Government Services Group, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .712 Groves Inc. / Ready Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .431 Gulf Atlantic Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .541 H.O. Bostrom Company, INC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .609 Hamilton Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1312 Hedrick Brothers Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .640 Henry Schein f/n/a Matrix Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1003 HiViz LED Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .603 Horizon Turnout Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1441 IamResponding.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1307 IDEX Fire & Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .529 IFSTA/Fire Protection Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1201 ImageTrend, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .526 Install Don’t Fall fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113 Intterra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .428 ISO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200 Jones & Bartlett Learning Public Safety Group . . . . . . .408 Kuriyama Fire Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412 L3 Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .424 Laerdal Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .309 Lexipol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1402 Life Scan Wellness Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .601 Life-Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432 MagneGrip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .413 Marks Air, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .625 Medline Industries, L.P. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1207 Med-Trans Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1332 Mercury Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .400 MES - Municipal Emergency Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .535 Metal Shark Boats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1311 Miovision/Opticom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1318 Municipal Equipment Company, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1141 My Health Onsite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .206 MyMedHistory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .213 NAFECO (North American Fire Equipment Company) . . .639

National Public Pension Fund Association . . . . . . . . . . .624 National Rescue Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .525 National Testing Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .300 Nightlock Lockdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1305 Nite Beam Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1421 Ofab/MAC1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1521 OneSource Restoration, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1104 Operative IQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1102 Optavise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .343 Orange County Fire Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1527 Panasonic Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419 Performance Advantage Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1313 PGI BarriAire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1317 Philips Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1301 Pipelining Technologies, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .626 Polar Breeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .417 PRIDE Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .449 Propper International, INC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1302 Pro-Tech 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1340 Provengo LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1517 Public Consulting Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802 Pulsara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .434 Quick Med Claims . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1410 Ready Rebound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .440 ReadyOp Communications, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1519 Rescue Operations International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .422 Rescue Systems Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .707 RescueBlox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .327 RescueMeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1342 Res-Q-Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .520 REV RTC - Hall-Mark Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .801 Ricochet Manufacturing, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .522 Safe Fleet (formerly FRC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .623 School of EMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .435 Scotty Firefighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630 ServiceMaster Recovery Management . . . . . . . . . . . . .1303 Shaun Fix, Emergency Medical Consultants & Quick Fix Circ Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1449 Smart Tec U.S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1423 Solid Responder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .524 SoundOff Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .347 South Fla. Emergency Vehicles/Sutphen . . . . . . . . . . . .401 SPECIALIZED PROFESSIONAL Services Inc (SPSI) . . . . .1341 StatPortals, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1412 Stryker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .617 Sunshine 811 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .321 Tablet Command, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1427 Team Equipment, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .717 Tempest Technology Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .333 Ten-8 Fire & Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .827 Tenzinga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .546 The Bancorp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .420 The For Paul Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1327 The Gehring Group - Corp. Hdqtrs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1338 TRIDENT EMERGENCY PRODUCTS LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . .1106 Triple F - Fierce Female Firefighters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .549 Turtle Fire Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .545 Tyler Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .303 United Badges Insurance Services, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . .701 United Safety - Valor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .720 University of Florida Fire and Emergency Services . . . .527 US Digital Designs by Honeywell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .703 Valencia College Fire Rescue Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . .632 Vector Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1339 VFIS of Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1101 Waldorf University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1213 Ward Diesel Filter Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .528 Waterous Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1219 Whelen Engineering Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1221 WHP Trainingtowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .516 Workrite Fire Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1205 Zetron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .442 ZOLL Medical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1326 As of 12/28/23

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By Mackenzie McClintock, Public Information Officer, South Walton Fire District

I

n South Walton County, Florida, the coolest kids in school don’t have a trendy outfit, the latest smartphone, or the biggest group of friends.

Instead, they win the South Walton Fire District’s Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest and experience an unforgettable ride to school their classmates will talk about for the rest of the year.

In October 2023, SWFD’s Fire and Life Safety Division held its second annual poster contest for two local schools. Students were tasked with creating a unique poster following the theme of cooking safety, and the top poster from each school was selected later in the fall.

SWFD Fire Marshal Sammy Sanchez, alongside other District personnel, presented the winning students with their first-place ribbons and an exciting announcement in front of their class.

“I don’t think it will ever get old, seeing the winner’s face right after we tell them they get to ride to school in a fire engine,” Sanchez said. “They also win a pizza party for their class, but that’s nothing compared to the thought of getting to spend a morning with the firefighters and ride in the truck. The winner just can’t stop smiling, and we can’t either. Those moments remind us why we do this job.”

The 2023 winners were students Landon and Lucy, whose posters clearly demonstrated creativity, as well as fire safety. The

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students and their families were overjoyed and gracious as they spent their mornings with the SWFD firefighters responsible for covering the neighborhood where they live.

Each student had time to learn about the tools and equipment on the fire engine, as well as meet the firefighters and ask them questions. Following the introduction to the trucks and crews, they loaded up for school and arrived in style, with their classmates cheering them on.

“The other students are beyond excited, yelling and clapping in support of their friend,” Sanchez explained. “That might be just as cool for the winners as the ride to school. They jump off the truck feeling on top of the world and so excited for their day. It’s a privilege to play a part in making their school day special and we hope it’s something they never forget.”

While the poster contest is still in its infancy, the feedback from the community, the schools, and the families, has been overwhelmingly positive. SWFD looks forward to many more years of making memories with local students through the contest.

Fire Station Dedication Honoring Fallen Firefighter

By Brenda Smith, Public Information Officer, St. Lucie County Fire District

O

n Friday, December 8, 2023, the Fire District dedicated Station 4 to the memory of Firefighter Charles E. Yarborough, a 21-year veteran of the St. Lucie County Fire District. “Charlie” died on December 9, 2008, from complications during surgery to repair a muscle tendon that he tore while on the job.

The Fire Board Commissioners, Fire District Administrators and personnel, and family members gathered at Station 4 for a ceremony to remember Charlie. Deputy Chief Paul Langel welcomed everyone, while the Honor Guard presented the colors and retired SLCFD Lieutenant and our district chaplain, Tommy Neiman, gave the invocation.

Fire Chief Jeff Lee, several colleagues, and Charlie’s son, shared their favorite memories and touching stories of Charlie over the course of his career with the district. He was admired by all and made a large impact on the fire district. Chief Lee said, “Charlie

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Yarborough dedicated 21 years of his life to the district, mostly at Station 4, as the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) Engineer.

We dedicated Station 4 in his memory to honor his passion and ensure that his legacy forever burns bright in the heart of our firefighting family.”

A hand-painted mural of Charlie and a static locker with Charlie’s gear was unveiled and will be a fond reminder of Charlie’s time and dedication to Station 4 and the St. Lucie County Fire District.

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By Sam DiGiovanna

L

ately, there is a lot of emphasis being placed on peer support training for first responders. It’s a growing trend and I certainly see the need. I just completed the peer support training from the National Emergency Responder and Public Safety Center, which is now a part of Lexipol’s Cordico wellness solution. Now, more than ever, peer support is needed as first responders are experiencing more stress and responding to tragic incidents.

Formal peer support programs are important, but so is the much more informal type of peer support, also known as fellowship.

In my opinion, some of the best peer support we ever had in the fire service has begun to

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disappear. It was right in our stations, and we held the keys. The problem is, we didn’t see it for what it was, so we’ve let it slip through our fingers.

The fire service has changed since the beginning of my career. Here are a few examples of how I notice the decrease of informal peer support in many firehouses.

Peer Support in the Firehouse Kitchen In the traditional fire station, the kitchen served as a major hub of camaraderie. No matter who happened to be cooking that day, jumping in to help prepare meals brought us all together. Sharing ideas, laughing and trying new recipes helped us bond as firefighters, coworkers, brothers and sisters.

Of course, one of the most sacred places at the fire house is the kitchen table. There’s something so elemental about breaking bread together at the kitchen table — sharing experiences, laughing at each other’s jokes, and coming together as firefighters.

Unfortunately, this form of peer support is in danger of being lost. Some personnel bring in their own food. Maybe they are vegan or have other special dietary needs, or they might prefer to walk across the street and grab an easy bite at a fast-food chain. Sometimes a

firefighter spouse will bring food in, and that person will eat on their own while staring at their phone. For a number of different reasons, bonding at the kitchen table has diminished.

Peer Support in the Firehouse Dorm In the past, the firehouse dorm was seen as something close to a sanctuary. In reality, it was often more like a space for group therapy. I can remember many times in my career as a firefighter, getting on the station all call system and saying, “Therapy time!” Sometimes just a few of us would make our way upstairs to the dorm; other times, practically everyone would head up for a gab session.

The typical firehouse dorm used to be a big room with no walls — 15 beds where we would lay around and just talk firehouse talk. Some discussions were serious, but most were full of laughs and gossiping. It was always great bonding time, nonetheless.

Nowadays, though, most firehouse dormitories have been redesigned as “snore dorms.” Instead of open areas (perfect for group discussions), these four-walled cubicles seem like they were mostly designed to prevent one person’s loud snoring from waking up everybody else. In reality, they are closed in so personnel can have privacy — something

nobody in a traditional fire crew expected or even wanted. Also, they’re a necessary change as firehouses evolve from all-male spaces to more inclusive facilities where everyone can feel welcome.

They also have small televisions and computer workstations with chargers for iPhone and iPads. Many have locks installed. These “snore dorms” have isolated firefighters from one another, reducing or eliminating the “therapy” sessions we once shared.

Peer Support in the Firehouse Rec Room With televisions and workstations now in the snore dorms, many firefighters no longer use the firehouse recreation room. This is where we would gather after lunch in our station recliners watching “All My Children,” where we would congregate in the evenings and on weekends watching sports, movies, or simply playing chess or backgammon.

From what I can tell, many young firefighters would prefer to watch sports and movies on their phones or tablets — often in the privacy of their individual sleeping rooms. Board games have given way to video games, usually played all alone on a small screen instead of hooting and hollering with others in the rec room. Another avenue for peer support … gone!

Other Lost Opportunities for Peer Support “If you build it, they will come!” I remember at one station, the crew pooled their own money for supplies to build a “park-like” area in the yard behind the station. We called it our “Hard Luck Park,” and you’d often find crew members back there smoking cigars on the park benches and having after-hours therapy sessions.

Unfortunately, this kind of thing just isn’t possible today. Because of liability issues, all new construction has to be approved and built by the city’s public works department. That means the teamwork, bonding, and support is affected, too.

Where do you live? There was once a time when we would get off duty in the morning and go to breakfast somewhere. We’d spend the time talking about the calls (good and bad) during the shift that just ended. Back then, firefighters would spend a lot of off-duty time together: Attending classes for upcoming promotional exams, catching a baseball game, hitting the car races, or showing up in force to celebrate the birthday of a fellow firefighter’s child or family member.

This is less common now, as many firefighters don’t live in the communities they serve. The high cost of housing means many of us live 30-50 miles away from the firehouse. It has become a work-only environment, which results in less time socializing with each other when we’re off duty.

Engine 101 out of service! In the old-fashioned firehouse, when an engine broke down for whatever reason, we had so much talent in the station to help make the repairs. It used to be common for all personnel to get together, take off the pump panel and work together on our rigs.

We’d tinker as a team, learning from each other as we laughed and yes, even played together. All of this made for solid therapeutic work.

Let’s face it: There’s not a better group than firefighters to design, build, repair and remodel things at the station. Working together to improve and enhance the firehouse helps personnel bond while instilling a great sense of pride in the department. Unfortunately, most repairs, remodels and building projects are now being outsourced to private entities or government departments. This means less time working together, solving problems, and bonding as we did it.

If you’ve been in the fire service for more than a decade, you understand what I am talking about. Times have changed and some of the best peer support opportunities have fallen by the wayside as firefighter culture has evolved. So I ask you, how do we correct this decline of peer support in the firehouse?

Here are a few suggestions: Bring company dinner back: As often as you can, get everyone to sit down together for a meal. This may require extra planning to accommodate special diets, food allergies, and so on. But it’ll be worth it.

Make better use of common areas: If your firehouse has abandoned dormitory sleeping in favor of individual rooms, make sure there’s somewhere in the station where everyone can gather and be social.

Consider a “no phones” policy for these gatherings and do what you can to make them enjoyable for all.

Pass on perishable skills: One of the best opportunities to bond with other members of your fire crew is while teaching and learning. This doesn’t have to be firefighting-related, but it could be. Consider informal classes on equipment maintenance and repair, or even cooking classes to make mealtimes even more enjoyable. The possibilities are endless.

Boost your peer support team: With all the changes in the fire service, formal peer support has become more and more important. If your department doesn’t currently have a peer support team, it’s critical to get one up and running. If it’s been a while since your team has received training, doing so can reinvigorate the members and make them more effective.

Sam DiGiovanna is a 35-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He also is also a Senior Consultant for Lexipol’s Cordico wellness solution.

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High Rise Regional Training Exercise

By Danny Fureigh, Fire Chief Danny Fureigh, Navarre Beach Fire Rescue District

O

n November 29, as part of a regional training exercise, local firefighters rapelled down a seventeen-story condo on Navarre Beach. Eighteen firefighters from local crews including: Navarre Beach Fire Rescue, Holley-Navarre Fire District, Midway Fire District, Okaloosa Island Professional Firefighters and South Walton Fire District participated in the training.

Firefighters practiced a rope rescue while rapelling down the condo in an exercise that simulates rescuing someone who is installing or washing windows on a condo and gets stuck or has a medical emergency.

The firefighters secured their equipment and ropes to the top floor of the condo. They also secured equipment on the sixth floor, where the rescue took place, as well as the ground level by the pool.

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Sarasota County and USCG Partnerships Strengthen Through Training

By Tim Dorsey, Assistant Chief, and Sara Nealeigh, Media Relations Officer, Sarasota County Emergency Services

2

2 T he Sarasota County Fire Department (SCFD) has been working closely with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) over the course of 2023 on enhancing interagency emergency response operations.

Partnerships between responding agencies are vital in every community. With nearly 40 miles of coastline, six barrier islands, and one of the fastest growing counties in the state of Florida, Sarasota’s response to watercraft emergencies is essential to the fire department’s mission. That response includes the ability to partner with agencies such as USCG and training is an essential function to ensure the safety of the team as well as making the rescue when every second counts.

The department has collaborated with USCG Station Cortez and Sector St. Petersburg on implementing coordinated training focusing on joint operations related to search and rescue operations in the Gulf of Mexico and Intracoastal Waterway. As the agencies progress in training, it increases interoperability and operational effectiveness while also preparing for the next emergency.

Most recently, SCFD Marine Rescue Operations Unit worked with multiple assets and aircraft with USCG Air Station Clearwater on performing hoist operations between SCFD Fire/Rescue boats and USCG MH-60T aircraft.

Crews coordinated communications and operational skills to meet and practice multiple methods and evolutions of contacting, deploying rescue baskets, and extracting to recover to the aircraft simulating transporting an emergency medical patient from offshore to the aircraft for transportation to the most appropriate facility for continued care and treatment.

Crews on both the boat and aircraft have transferred a great amount of knowledge,

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learning, and practical applications from the interagency training relationship.

“We truly appreciate our ongoing partnership with the Coast Guard, it benefits all of us to work better together in any situation and we can all grow and evolve this level of cooperation in the years to come,” said SCFD Assistant Chief of Special Programs Tim Dorsey.

In addition to training operations, SCFD has consistently partnered with USCG for boat and beach safety messaging throughout the summer through multiple Suncoast media outlets.

These joint opportunities allow our agencies to share important safety messaging with the public and further our relationships with local media outlets.

“Our strengthened collaboration with the Sarasota County Fire Department is flourishing, and we value the chance to work and train together. These partnerships play a crucial role in ensuring safe boating in Sarasota County, allowing us to deliver optimal responses to the needs of our

boating community,” said United States Coast Guard BMC Derek Waters, Officer in Charge of USCG Station Cortez.

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By Vivian Shedd, APIO, Tampa Fire Rescue

T

he city of Tampa is known for its special events year-round. From music festivals, families trick-or-treating along the Riverwalk, to Gasparilla, the largest pirate invasion in the nation. In this dynamic landscape of special events, meticulous planning is paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees. One critical aspect that demands special attention is the preparation for Mass Casualty Incidents (MCIs).

Tampa Fire Rescue, in conjunction with Tampa Police Department, conducted a fullscale MCI exercise on November 29, 2023.

More than 25 participating agencies, aimed to

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test and improve the unified command and response actions between fire rescue and law enforcement personnel.

The scenario unfolded with a simulated active shooter situation in a crowded public space during a major event inside the Tampa Convention Center, requiring swift and effective coordination between police officers and fire rescue teams. The exercise simulated 200 casualties, played by University of South Florida volunteers and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members, with varying degrees of injuries, placing emphasis on the seamless integration of first responders' efforts

to save lives, scene security, and ensure public safety. It concluded within a terminal at Port Tampa Bay to exercise on the coordination of a family reunification center and patient tracking.

"This exercise was crucial for our city. It prepares us to respond effectively to any worstcase scenario and ensures the safety of our community,” said City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “I am proud of our city’s proactive approach and the commitment to readiness our police and fire personnel have in the face of unforeseen disasters.”

Police officers arrived promptly at the scene, securing the area, and neutralizing the simulated threat. Their actions were meticulously coordinated with the fire rescue teams, who quickly established a triage area to assess and categorize the simulated victims based on the severity of their injuries.

Emergency medical personnel from multiple agencies, including Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Transcare, were on hand to provide immediate care to the simulated victims, employing life-saving interventions and coordinating with firefighters to facilitate the safe extraction of individuals from the simulated danger zone. The exercise also included the deployment of specialized equipment, such as mass casualty transport

units, to simulate the evacuation of multiple injured individuals to nearby medical facilities.

“In a mass casualty training exercise, the medical response plays a pivotal role in saving lives and minimizing the impact of a disaster,” said Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Barbara Tripp.

“A primary objective is to test and refine the capabilities of emergency medical services (EMS) in assessing, triaging, and treating a large number of casualties. Exercises, such as this one, simulate realistic scenarios, allowing medical teams to practice their skills in a controlled environment.”

City officials and leadership from various public safety departments observed the exercise, emphasizing the importance of these drills in preparing first responders for real-life emergencies. "This training exercise is essential for refining our response strategies and enhancing the overall coordination between police and fire rescue teams," stated Chief Lee Bercaw of the Tampa Police Department. "By simulating complex scenarios, we can identify areas for improvement and strengthen our ability to protect and serve the community during critical incidents for a safer Tampa."

Fire Chief Barbara Tripp echoed those

sentiments, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the training.

"Additionally, these simulations emphasize effective communication among medical teams and with other response agencies, reinforcing the importance of a wellcoordinated, multidisciplinary approach to managing mass casualties."

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41

Polk County‘s Special Operations Coordinator

By Hezedean A. Smith, D.M., Fire Chief

Palm Beach Gardens - Clinician Awareness Program

By Cory J. Bessette, Assistant Chief, PIO, Operations Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue recently hosted the Clinician Awareness Program offered through the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative. It is a two-day program that gives licensed mental health clinicians valuable insight into the lives of firefighters. The program includes one day of classroom-based instruction on the application of empirically supported psychological assessment and intervention methods. On the second day, the clinicians performed tasks associated with firefighting, such as advancing charged hose lines and forcible entry, while wearing full bunker gear and SCBAs. It was an honor for Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue to work with the Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative to provide this program.

In 2003, the Hazardous Materials Team was launched under the Special Operations division. As time progressed, amplified demand for advanced emergency services emerged, so Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) seized the opportunity by expanding its scope to introduce a holistic technical rescue team. Adept at handling everything from hazardous materials and heavy rescues to the specialized terrains of high-angle and trench/collapse rescue. Our teams provide all-hazard readiness, spanning from hazardous materials and technical rescue to tactical SWAT medics, mobile bike/UTV medics, Honor Guard, marine/dive units, and advanced drone operations.

Battalion Chief and Paramedic Codi Donahoe is PCFR’s Special Operations Coordinator in the Professional Development Division and is instrumental in shaping the future of this division.

"Our unwavering commitment to the people of Polk County is evident in our continuous efforts to enhance our capabilities,” said Fire Chief Hezedean A. Smith, D.M. “Every unit and every team member has a singular mission - to offer the best emergency services possible. Our special operations are a testament to that dedication."

Seminole County Welcomes New Members

By Doreen Overstreet, APR, Public Safety Information & Education Officer

Coral Springs Acquires Truck

By Michael Moser, BAS, CFO, Deputy Fire Chief The Coral Springs Regional Institute of Public Safety (CSRIPS) is a highly respected training facility in the region for the next generation of firefighters as well as current career professionals that are looking to expand their skills.

The CSRIPS has been fortunate enough over the years to benefit from out of service reserve units, however, as the school has expanded and the impacts of the current supply chain issues continue, departments are holding on to front line engines longer. With support from city management and marking a major milestone, the CSRIPS was able to secure the first new engine in our 20+ year history. To be able to train on a new engine with new technology provides a solid foundation for when the student is hired into a department. The truck is a 2023 Pierce Pumper, on a Saber chassis, purchased from Ten-8. This engine has a 750-gallon water tank and a 1750 Waterous single stage pump.

Engine 1 proudly sits as the flagship of the CSRIPS fleet.

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The Seminole County Fire Department recently celebrated the graduation of 17 new probationary Firefighters in Class 23-03.

Half of the graduates grew up in Seminole County and/or currently reside in Seminole County. Six of the graduates continued the tradition in following in their family’s footsteps in the fire service, and the class also includes many first-generation firefighters. In addition, there were two brothers in the recruit class – Aaron and Luke Sambeli. SCFD was also proud to have two military veterans in the class, Jorge Graciani, who is a U.S. Airforce veteran and Cody Dreher, U.S. Marine veteran.

“Being a member of the Fire Department is not just a profession, it’s a calling,” said Seminole County Fire Chief Matt Kinley. “We are here for those in their greatest time of need, and we will never ever forget this commitment to public service. On behalf of SCFD, welcome to an experienced, progressive, and growing department. There are endless opportunities for you here.”

The new personnel are: Samantha Finnegan, Sergio Leyte-Vidal, Ethan Soria, Johnathan Cotto. Evarius Daverman, Brooke Davis, Noah Getty, Ryan Gillis, Aaron Sambeli, Luke Sambeli, Ethan Czajkowski, Cody Dreher, Jorge Graciani, Fisher Greene, Aden Hohman, Caitlin Knoppe, and Justin Manna.

Gammons Giving

Turkey Fry Fire Demonstration

By Lieutenant Patrick J. Juliano, Public Information Officer

By Jesse Canales, Assistant Public Information Officer

For the last several years the Palm Coast Fire Department assisted Pastor Jearlyn Dennie with cooking turkeys for Thanksgiving. In the beginning, it was one or two turkeys, but as the years went on the quantity increased.

Firefighter Brant Gammon suggested that he could easily smoke several turkeys at once.

Last year a new tradition was started in Brant’s memory. The WAGs, the department fire family support program, organized Operation GammonsGiving in Brant’s honor.

Thanks to their selfless efforts, over 120 meals were be delivered to indigent, shut-in, ill, and senior citizen neighbors so that they have a hot Thanksgiving meal. All the meals are delivered by Jearlyn Dennie and her ministry as part of her community outreach program that she has coordinated for the last ten years.

On November 9, 2023, two weeks before Thanksgiving Day, Orange County Fire Rescue Department (OCFRD) held a turkey fry fire demonstration and press conference to warn residents of the dangers of improperly frying a turkey.

OCFRD Acting Assistant Fire Marshal Jennifer Corbin and Assistant Fire Marshal Inez Pressler provided safety information when it comes to frying a turkey. As for the demonstration, firefighters dropped a frozen turkey into a turkey fryer which resulted in a large fire. A safety officer and a fire engine were staged for safety purposes.

Cooking fires remain the number one cause of home fires every year nationwide according to the National Fire Protection Association. Turkey Fry fires alone cause an average of five deaths, 60 injures, and more than $15 million in property damage each year.

Over the past five years, there were 15 cooking fires during Thanksgiving weekend in Orange County.

The informative and visual demonstration highlighted how Orange County Fire Rescue remains committed to educating the public about cooking and fire safety to help prevent house fires.

Three New Faces Join South Walton Fire District

By Mackenzie McClintock, Public Information Officer The South Walton Fire District is thrilled to announce the hiring of three new firefighters. Firefighter/EMT Morgan Hardee, Firefighter/Paramedic Alden Staat, and Firefighter/EMT Spencer Phillips joined SWFD on November 27 having previous experience in the fire service.

The group began their probationary year undergoing a multi-week firefighting and EMS orientation.

Following the orientation and training time, they were assigned to their respective shifts to begin working with their crews.

Battalion Chief Lou Jones and Training Chief DJ Stone, along with a committee of career SWFD firefighters, were responsible for the new hire training.

Seminole County Firefighters and Personnel Toy Drive

By Doreen Overstreet, APR, Public Safety Information & Education Officer The Seminole County Firefighters Benevolent Association and Local IAFF 3254, in partnership with the Seminole County Fire Department, collected more than 1,000 toys for its 7th annual toy drive to, providing local children with gifts on their Christmas wish lists.

This was a partnership with the Sharing Center in Longwood and XL 106.7’s Baby DJ. “I would like to thank all the partners, people and businesses involved in this tremendous community effort to help the residents we proudly serve at the Seminole County Fire Department,” said Lieutenant Marcus Gombs, who has organized the toy drive for the last seven years.

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Brevard County Ocean Rescue Crews Recognized

By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS On November 19, while working their Tower, at Paradise Beach Park in Melbourne FL, Brevard County Ocean Rescues Lifeguard’s, Brandon Stevens, Noah Portanova, and Matthew Beeson were recently commended on the exceptional patient care preformed.

The patient contacted Brevard County Ocean Rescue Chief Witcher and stated: “I am writing to let you all know what a phenomenal crew you have working the Tower at Paradise Beach Park. Especially Brandon Stevens. I was surfing there on Sunday morning the waves were fun. Caught tons of nice peaks on the outside sandbar. I’m a 60-year-old that has been surfing since 1974. Just moved here from Hawaii/CA and have surfed 20’ waves on the North Shore and traveled the world riding waves. I underestimated the power of the waves breaking right onto the sand/rocks and got flipped upside down and went face first into the bottom. Within seconds some beach goers noticed my situation, and Brandon came down immediately along with Matt Beeson and Noah Portanova.

They took over the situation and asked the right questions and helped to make sure I didn’t have neck or back problems. Anyway, they were not only professional and knowledgeable but also showed sincere empathy for me. It felt as though I was a family member, and they were taking care of me. I lived on the North Shore of Oahu for 20 years plus riding big waves. I’ve met most of the legendary Guards (Mark Cunningham, Abe Lerner, Terry Ahue, Darrick Doehner, and Brock Little). The crew at Paradise Tower is right up there on that level. I’m sure there might have been others that helped but these are the only names I got. Anyway, thanks again to these guys. I like it here in Brevard County and will smile every time I pay taxes of some sort knowing that maybe in part it helps to find the Brevard County Ocean Rescue team. God bless all of you.”

Seminole County Fire Department Supports Seminole County Public Schools’ Teach-In Day Events

By Doreen Overstreet, APR, Public Safety Information & Education Officer

Alachua County’s - Fire Inspector of the Year

By Jennifer DiSanto, Captain/Recruitment & Public Education, Fire Rescue Alachua County was proud to host this year’s Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association’s (FFMIA) annual conference. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the conference and the first year of having the conference in Gainesville. The FFMIA brings together fire prevention personnel from around the state to discuss the emerging trends and challenges to fire prevention. The Florida conference has a rich history and is the longest running continual fire prevention conference in the United States. Florida held its first conference in 1948 in Orlando. This year’s conference had a bonus for Alachua County Fire Rescue. Fire Prevention Officer Silver “Chip” Ware was recognized as the State Fire Inspector of the Year.

Oviedo Fire Department Promotions

By Lisa McDonald, Communications Manager In November, the Oviedo Fire Department promoted nine firefighters to the position of driver/engineer.

Promoted were: Kyle Diener, David Montelongo, Thomas Trotter, Michael Radzak, Justin Carnes, Daniel Forrest, Gavin Jackson, John Savas, and Jeffrey Pirkola.

Beginning October 1, 2023, the Oviedo Fire Department implemented a new driver/engineer rank within the department. Each shift, Engine 48, Engine 46, and Tower 46 will have a qualified driver/engineer assigned. All nine were selected from 21 firefighters who applied and tested. This is the largest single group of promotions in the Oviedo Fire Department history.

“I am so proud of our new engineers,” said Fire Chief Michael Woodward. “This testing is not easy and each one of them persevered through the process. Each one of them has shown their utmost commitment to the community and these promotions are well deserved.”

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The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) supported Seminole County Public Schools’ Teach-In Day on November 14, 2023 throughout all of Seminole County Public schools. Teach-In Day highlights the importance of bringing together teachers, school staff, parents, students, and communities in a unified effort to build great public schools.

SCFD sent units and personnel out to more than a dozen events that day.

Firefighters visited nearly a dozen local schools. At Midway Elementary School of the Arts in Sanford, the Fire Prevention Team brought the Fire Safety Trailer so that all the kindergarten classes could experience fire safety lessons as well as some 4th and 5th grade classes. In total, more than 400 students were reached at Midway.

In addition, firefighters visited Seminole High School in partnership with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. military for a “Get Informed About Uniforms” recruitment event.

Palm Coast Acquires Mobile Air Trailer with AFG

By Lieutenant Patrick J. Juliano, Public Information Officer The Palm Coast Fire Department recently welcomed the delivery of a Star 70 Deluxe Mobile Breathing Air Trailer from Breathing Air Systems. This stateof-the-art mobile cascade trailer system will be deployed at incident scenes, providing quick, clean, and on-the-spot refills for breathing air.

The acquisition of a mobile air trailer, with an estimated value of $59,461.79, was made possible by the successful acquisition of the Fiscal Year 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, valued at $45,453.63.

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Battalion Chief Earns EFO Designation

By Lieutenant Patrick J. Juliano, Public Information Officer

BCFR Hosts UCF REACT Class

By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS The University of Central Florida’s REACT peer support training celebrated their 2,000-participant milestone on November 20, 2023. The class was hosted

by Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) and held at their Fire Rescue Center in Rockledge, FL. Attendees included employees from BCFR and Titusville Fire Department. Instructors offered training on enhancing peer support skills, how to recognize and bring awareness of four zone indicators, and how to identify when someone is in distress, so they are able to provide effective support to their peers.

December Promotions

By Joseph Dorsette, Assistant Chief of Specialized Services The Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue was busy in the month of December making several promotions to the ranks of Driver Engineer, Captain, and Battalion Chief. All members compete in a competitive promotional process enhancing their knowledge, skills, abilities in standard operating guidelines, EMS protocols, snd performance-based standards.

Congratulations to everyone who got “the call.”

Pictured top left to bottom right: Driver Engineer Charles Tresca, Captain Miguel Garcia, Captain Miguel Perez, Driver Engineer Marcus Alphonse, Captain Ryan Martin, Captain Pete Gonzalez, Captain Nikko Sanchez, Battalion Michael Haughey, Captain Robert Hodgman, Driver Engineer Jordan Steele, Driver Engineer Shayna Scott, Driver Engineer Alejandro Beltran, Captain Joshua Tullis, and Captain Jeramiah Tomasini.

The Palm Coast Fire Department celebrates Battalion Chief Dave Faust on his professional achievement of successfully completing the Executive Fire Officer program at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

The Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Program is the pinnacle of the U.S. Fire Administration’s (USFA’s) commitment to supporting the needs of fire and emergency services (EMS) agencies in preparing executive officers to meet the ever-changing demands of the dynamic communities in which they serve.

Chief Faust completed the program and graduated on December 8, 2023, at the National Fire Academy. During the week, he successfully defended his capstone project.

Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill expressed pride in Battalion Chief Faust’s accomplishment, stating, “We celebrate Chief Faust for his exceptional academic and professional achievement. His commitment to serving others and mentoring our current Lieutenant and Driver Engineers reflects his outstanding leadership qualities.”

A Massachusetts native, Battalion Chief Faust made the move to Palm Coast, Florida in the early 2000s. Beginning his journey with the Palm Coast Fire Department as a Volunteer Firefighter in 2006, he transitioned to a career firefighter role in 2008. Chief Faust acquired his Firefighter Certification through the Flagler Adult Education program and earned his EMT and Paramedic Certifications from First Coast Technical College.

Treasure Island Fire Rescue’s Push Back ceremony

By Trip Barrs, Fire Chief/Assistant City Manager Residents, city commissioners, and firefighters came out to Treasure Island Fire Rescue’s push back ceremony to celebrate the return of the department’s antique fire truck. The 1927 Cosmopolitan American LaFrance underwent extensive repairs and refurbishment to bring it back to roadworthy condition. The original motor and transmission were replaced along with the radiator, drive train, and rear end. Disc brakes from a Chevy Silverado 3500 were added, replacing the original antique drum brakes. TIFR thanks the community for all of their support with this 10month project. Lead mechanic Don Sytsma who oversaw the project is shown guiding the vehicle into the station during the push back.

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1-800 BOARDUP provides 24/7 emergency response to secure properties and protects people in the immediate aftermath of property-related disasters. Since its founding in 2002, 1-800-BOARDUP has steadily grown into a network of more than 75 locations throughout the United States, including seven locally owned and operated here in Florida.

The mission of 1-800-BOARDUP is to serve local communities and support organizations that share our commitment to help victims of disaster. Our true success is measured by our ability to effectively serve those in need through our unwavering commitment to our core principles and values.

Experiencing a fire can be overwhelming, especially when it impacts not only your property, but also your loved ones. 1-800-BOARDUP has trained emergency responders standing by to help fire victims handle the effects left behind after a fire outbreak. Our 24/7 response team is just a phone call away and they will

immediately begin protecting a property from further damage and containing the damage already in place.

At 1-800-BOARDUP, we do much more than simply boarding up damaged buildings. We are one of the first teams on-site after devastating property losses, and we’re there to bridge a critical gap between the immediate aftermath of disaster and helping property owners begin to recover.

Often, victims of a fire don’t know where to start after contacting their insurance agent. One of the first and most important things victims will need to do is secure their property so that further damage will not occur from inclement weather, or even vandals. At 1-800-BOARDUP, locally-owned offices offer 24-hour emergency response immediately and are ready to board up a damaged property while providing restoration services every step of the way. Our timely response also expedites the process for first responder emergency vehicles to return to service and provide essential services for other community members.

By focusing equally on implementing emergency safety measures and providing essential victim services, our team is dedicated to doing everything we can to make life–and losses–easier for first responders, home and business owners, and insurance providers.

advertisers index Advertiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page No. Bennett Fire Products 770-591-0520 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Blue Line Innovations 561-444-6660 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Channel Innovations Corporation 352-694-7006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Compressed Air Supplies 954-929-4462 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Covert Armor 844-COVERT1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 DAB Door 800-257-2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 ETR, LLC 407-339-6737 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 First There First Care www.firsttherefirstcare.com . . . . . . . . . .35 Genesis Rescue Systems 850-566-5553 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Hall-Mark RTC 800-524-6072 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Lexipol 844-312-9500

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Medline Industries, L.P. 608-726-0812 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Municipal Equipment, LLC 800-228-8448 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 NAFECO 800-628-6233 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 Pipelining Technologies, Inc. 561-556-2858 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Safe Air Corporation 800-798-8820 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Seminole State College 407-708-4722 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Team Equipment, Inc. 800-367-9054 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15, 29 Ten-8 Fire Equipment, Inc. 800-228-8368 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 United Badges Insurance Services 850-841-9992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Michael (Tonto) Alexander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nite Beam Products Jesus Barrera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Boca Raton Fire Rescue Eric Beaulieu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .DLZ Ryan Conley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carna Bunker Gear LLC Robert Coschignano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .City of Orlando Richard Doupe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .San Carlos Park Fire Rescue Ken Gilliam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Volusia County Fire Rescue John Grivalsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Horizon Turnout Gear Robert Henzmann . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Maitland Fire Rescue Department Ray Ibberson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Electric Sales and Service Inc. Daniel Jurek . . . . . . . . . . . . . .San Carlos Park Fire Protection District Lindsey Kensinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .St Petersburg Fire Rescue

50

FLORIDA FIRE SERVICE

December 2023

Jeff Lazzeri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Boca Raton Fire Rescue Brandon Mckee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Palm Bay Fire Rescue Samuel Mercer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Desoto County Fire and Rescue Jason Morgan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Citrus County Fire Rescue Sara Nealeigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sarasota County Fire Department Brennan Norton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ricochet Manufacturing Jason Sekula . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Boca Raton Fire Rescue Colleen Shields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .RescueMeds Curt Summers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .FireHouseBeds.com Jay Sumner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Boca Raton Fire Rescue Cindy Taffel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Broward Sherrif Dept Michael Wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pipelining Technologies, Inc.

VFIS 800-233-1957 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Whelen Engineering Company, Inc. 860-575-7788 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Wheeled Coach 800-342-0720 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

RECENT DELIVERIES Panama City Fire Department CHASSIS: Rosenbauer Commander BODY: Pumper ENGINE: Cummins L9 HORSEPOWER: 380 hp PUMP: Waterous GPM: 1250 gpm TANK: 750 gallons

Apopka Fire Department CHASSIS: Rosenbauer Commander BODY: Pumper ENGINE: Cummins L9 HORSEPOWER: 450 hp PUMP: Hale Midship GPM: 2000 gpm TANK: 1000 gallons

Bronson Fire Rescue CHASSIS: Freightliner BODY: Pumper ENGINE: Cummins L9 HORSEPOWER: 360 hp PUMP: Hale GPM: 1500 gpm TANK: 750 gallons

Contact our Florida Apparatus Sales Team Phil Lincoln 352-817-0649 (I4 North) Mike Maalouf 954-593-3314 (I4 South)

NAFECO.com/FireTruck inffo@ in o@nafeco o@ naffe ec co o.c .co com • 8 com 800 00-6 -628-6 628-6 628 6233 6 233 ©ON-FIRE MARKETING

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