VOLUME 19, NO. 1
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
FEBRUARY 2016
See stories on pages 13 and 49. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Firefighters Save Home in Rehoboth Beach See page 8
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... All-Hands at Angola Fire The Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company reponded to a chimney fire in the 34000 block of Bookhammer Landing Road. See story page 8
Wilmington 2-Alarmer The Wilmington Fire Department responded to a church fire, which turned into second alarm. See story page 12
Millville Works Car-into-Building Millville Volunteer Fire Company and Sussex County Paramedics worked an MVA at the Millville Medical Center. See story page 16
SCEMS Celebrates 25 Years of Service
Sussex County Council presented Sussex County EMS with a proclamation recognizing 25 years of outstanding and dedicated service.
See story page 23
A Milestone — Again — in Harrington Only four individuals have ever held all three of the highest offices; President, Fire Chief and EMS Captain in the Harrington Fire Co. See story page 41
5-Year-Old Gets Special Birthday Gavin wanted to could go to his party on a fire engine and the Laurel Fire Department granted his wish. See story page 43
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service . .page 30 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 38 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 44 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50
An independently owned news and information resource for the dedicated firefighters, emergency medical technicians, auxiliary members, and public safety officials in the State of Delaware. Thanks to the support of its advertisers, this newspaper is distributed free of charge to every fire station in the First State. Published quarterly by Fire News, Inc., 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. Delaware Fire Service News is a registered trademark and all material contained herein is copyrighted. All rights reserved. Frank C. Trotta, Publisher Tim Edwards, Executive Editor Dennis Whittam, Editor Gary Joyce, Asst. Editor Marie Trotta, Vice President, Production/Sales Cliff Chiesa, Art Director Barbara Connolly, Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler Graphic Artists Warren F. Jones and Thomas J. Mitten, Publishers Emeritus Sal DeVivo, Founding Publisher Contributors: Mark Anderson, Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Richard S. Danner, Michele Ehart, Mark Felicetti, Robert Fox, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Ann Marie Krystopolski, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Christy Paxson, Phil Pennington Sr., Tony Petralia, Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, James Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Brian Slattery, Chuck Snyder, Rick Stewart, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Stephanie Wales, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Paul Watts, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-687-0343 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $25.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 10 Amer. Military Univ ............. 13 ASI ....................................... 33 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ................... 5, 17, 26, 27, 37, 51 Breaking News Network ...... 47 CFSI ..................................... 44 Defender Emergency Products ................................................. 9 DPC ............................. 2, 21, 52 EMS Today ........................... 38 ESI ....................................... 23 ESIP McNeil & Company .... 11 FireFlow .............................. 22
FDIC..................................... 15 Firehouse Expo ................... 25 Gennaro ............................... 18 Hoopes .................................. 11 Insta Signs Plus ....................... 50 Liberty Artworks .................. 28 Magnum Electronics ............. 7 NJEV .................................... 35 NYSAFC .............................. 31 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 23 Roll N Rack .......................... 29 Rush Uniforms .................... 35 Spicer Mullikin .................... 39
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
HOSE CONNECTIONS
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Winter: A Good Time to Refamiliarize Up and down the Atlantic Coasts, we have been lucky with the weather — so far — this winter. But are you ready to deal with frosted windows, slippery roadways and the need to be cautious while responding to calls if winter comes? For the new members, remember that frostbite is serious, especially after the fire is knocked down and you are soaking wet. Most EMTs are aware that the cold can complicate patient care at an accident scene. Stop and give thought to working in the cold. I would like to thank our readers who have reached out to Delaware Fire Service News through Facebook. In case you haven’t yet, visit Delaware Fire Service News, Fire News and FDNY Fire News on Facebook and like the page. Become one of the 450,000 visitors who have offered comments or shared posts. I recently came across a post on Facebook that actually made me stop and rethink about my commitment to the fire service. The post was a photograph of FDNY Rescue 2’s firehouse door, on which the following was superimposed: “Check the rig. Check the tools. Mentor the probie. Learn from the senior man. Leave the department better than you found it.” Wow! Those few sentences are so true and should make you stop and think. As a senior member of my department, I find myself coming to the firehouse for coffee and while the coffee is brewing, I frequently review the pump panel of my truck. I want to make sure that I am not embarrassed when I am the guy responsible to get water to the nozzle crew in a speedy fashion. Recently, when I entered the firehouse, all of the doors on my station’s fire police truck were open. I stopped and noticed one of my breakfast partners going through the truck making sure everything was where it was supposed to be. Did he have to do this? No, he most certainly did not, since the truck had been inspected a few days ago. I asked him what was up. He said, “Nothing, I just wanted to check a few things that were used the other night.” I have always learned from the best. The people who care are the people who reach out above and beyond what they are expected to do. Are you in this group? To all members — not just probies — remember that being part of our job is a privilege and a lifestyle. Winter is a great time to go down to the firehouse to study your rig, refamiliarize yourself with the equipment placement on the truck and to ask yourself, “Am I leaving a positive mark on the department?” Stay warm and be safe! ...Dennis
The Amabili Papers Keeping Our History Alive by Steve Austin In mid-November, Delaware’s National Fire Service ‘Icon’ Louis J. Amabili delivered nine file boxes of documents to the National Fire Heritage Center in Emmitsburg Maryland. The Center whose motto is to Preserve the Perishable sits in the shadow of the National Fire Academy that Lou worked to create. After careful cataloging, the papers will be made available to researchers and others for generations to come. These personal papers tell the story of how, in the second half of the last century, a group of dedicated public servants changed fire protection in the United States with the creation of President Nixon’s Fire Prevention and Control Commission and the writing of America Burning. The papers also contain source documents about the Joint Council of National Fire Service Organizations, a predecessor to the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), which was responsible for the creation of the NFPA Fire Service Professional Qualifications Standards and the Professional Qualification System better known as the Pro Board. It is no surprise that Lou served a term as Chairman of the Joint Council.
That position was only one of the many he held nationally including a member of the NFPA Board of Directors, President and one of the founders of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors, member of the IFSTA Executive Board, Chairman of the NFPA Fire Officers Standard Committee; and countless others. It is hard to imagine the media that is contained in the boxes. There are handwritten notes, mimeographs (look that up if you are under 40!), telegrams, typewritten pages and similar formats that contained the written word before the digital age. This was long before the days of faxes, e-mail and digital photos. The documents also tell some of the story about the establishment of the Delaware State Fire School that is named in Lou’s honor, memorializing the contributions of Delaware’s most famous and respected fire service icon.
Delaware Senator J. Caleb Boggs was instrumental in convincing President Nixon to appoint Lou to the President’s Fire Prevention and Control Commission. His charge was to represent the entire volunteer fire service of the United States so that the Commission’s report would reflect volunteer fire service concerns and contributions. Lou did not take that responsibility lightly. He tells a great story how he received the Presidential appointment via a phone call from the White House that he and his late beloved wife Carm thought was a crank call. The appointment set in motion a process including hearings, meetings and interviews all across the nation leading to the creation of America Burning that was actually written by the commissioners themselves, each being assigned a chapter. Today, official reports are all written by staff members. That accounts for many of Lou’s handwritten and typed documents that ensured his work product was exactly reflected in the document. Lou began his fire service career in Hockessin in 1949. He rose to the rank of Assistant Chief. He is a President Emeritus of the DVFA, having served as New Castle County President in 1962 and Chief's President in 1965. After becoming the leader of the Delaware State Fire School, he chose not to seek further elected offices in the fire service, respecting his statewide position as Fire School Director. Lou continues to be an active member on the administrative side at Hockessin and spends time in the firehouse daily. He also serves on County and DVFA committees and is a member of the CFSI Board of Directors. He religiously attends county and state meetings. Few persons are at the right place at the right time who have the willingness and the ability to serve. Lou Amabili is one of those few. Now the papers of Delaware Fire Service's most respected member will be available for everyone. That should make all of us here in Delaware very proud.
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
New Officers: Congratulations on being elected to lead your fire companies this year. The single most important thing the DVFA office can do for you is to communicate with you. Information is an important and valuable tool. We can only provide you with this if we have your contact information, e-mails and phone numbers. Please fill out the yearly commission form and sent it in. Station Inventory: Each fire station is required by statute to submit an annual equipment inventory to the Insurance Office. The DVFA office can serve as the delivery vehicle for this inventory. Go to the DVFA Website: dvfassn.com. On the left side, click on “Documents and Forms.” In the third block under “Various Documents” is “Station
by Joe Zeroles, President, DVFA To all, a Happy New Year! It has been a busy two months since the last edition of the Delaware Fire Service News. I hope you all had a great holiday with your families. I wanted to congratulate all the new officers of all the fire companies and all the State Fire Associations officers, as well. I look forward to working with you in this coming year. If I or the DVFA can be of assistance, please contact us. I had the opportunity to attend the VCOS Symposium in November with the other DVFA presidents and the executive manager. I found it to be a most rewarding and informative conference. I have started something new this year. We are posting a report on the DVFA Website on any out- of-state conferences we attend. The VCOS Symposium is the first one. On January 10, 2016, I attended the DVFA
DVFA Office
Apparatus Inventory.” Download the forms (one for each station), fill out and fax or e-mail to the DVFA Office as listed below. Conference 2016: The dates for Conference 2016 are September 12-17, 2016, at Dover Downs. FDIC: The DVFA has again acquired a block of rooms at FDIC in Indianapolis. If you are planning on attending, contact the DVFA office for the contact information. Do this as soon as possible, as the rooms will be going fast. Leadership Symposium: The DVFA, the Fire Commission, the Fire School, the Fire Marshal’s office and DEMA are partnering together to hold a Delaware Fire Service Leadership Symposium on April 9, 2016, at the
Hyatt in Dewey Beach. The day will be filled with information and education to help you in the management of your companies. We are bringing Chief Rich Gasaway, one of the nation’s premier fire service speakers on First Responder Situation Awareness and Leadership, to Delaware. All of your officers are invited to attend. Lunch will be provided. The registration forms are on the State Fire School Website. If the DVFA office can be on any assistance please call. Thank you and be safe! Warren Jones, Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566 (phone) 302-734-9404 (fax)
DVFA President
Poster and Essay Contest awards luncheon at the Cheswold Fire Company. I want to congratulate all the winners and the fire companies who sponsored them. I also want to thank the Life Safety Committee for the work they do year after year on the contest and this luncheon. The DVFA Poster and Essay Contest is the longest, continuous fire prevention event, of this type, in the country. We all should be proud of that. The Conference Exploratory Committee has held its first meeting before the holidays and has another meeting scheduled for January. They are looking at the conference budget, as well as all the operations of the yearly conference. We are looking forward to their recommendations. We are in the process of setting up our annual meeting with Governor Markell and will be making our annual presentation to the Joint Finance Committee in February. We are looking at our legislative priorities for this year and keeping a close eye on the budget. Now, I have an exciting announcement. The DVFA, in association with the Fire Commission, the Fire School and Fire
Marshall and DEMA, is holding the first ever Delaware Volunteer Fire Service Leadership Symposium on April 9, 2016, at the Hyatt Hotel in Dewey Beach. This one-day event will be filled with vital information for the leaders of the fire companies. We have asked Chief Bill Jenaway to moderate the day and are bringing a special keynote speaker, Chief Rich Gasaway. Chief Gasaway is a national fire service presenter and one of the keynoters this year at VCOS. His dynamic presentation will be filled with valuable information on one of today’s important topics. The registration forms are on the Delaware State Fire School website. I hope to see you in Dewey Beach! Lastly I wanted to thank you for all your invitations to your banquets. My wife and I truly appreciate your kindness and hospitality. I look forward to the remaining time as your president and the opportunity to meet you at the many events in the months ahead. Thank you, Joe Zeroles; President
LADVFA Corner by Mary Eisenbrey, President LADVFA Happy New Year! Winter is upon us, but warmer weather is on its way, I hope! My year as LADVFA President continues to be extremely busy. I have continued to travel up and down the state attending banquets and meetings. Thank you for all of the invitations and hospitality shown to me and my guest. Banquets are always a highlight for fire companies and auxiliary members. Also, on nights
when there were multiple banquet, thanks to Lois Pearson, Lynn Warner and Regina Headley-Marvel for attending. Congratulations to all the auxiliaries for their donations to the fire companies. Your hard work and commitment has surely paid off. The ladies auxiliaries in Delaware have been strong supporters of the volunteer fire service on local, county and state levels in many ways. The total amount of cash donations is remarkable. Thank you to the LADVFA officers, past presidents, county presidents, and members for your cooperation and support. All of you con-
tribute so much to the success of this association and I appreciate your dedication. 2016 Dates to Remember: April 3 - Auxiliary Seminar at the Delaware State Fire School. April 3 - Hobb Ryan Dinner at the Cheswold Fire Company. May 2 - LADVFA Executive Meeting at the Cheswold Fire Company. May 5 - CFSI Dinner in Washington DC. I would like to wish everyone a Happy Easter! “Alone we can do so little; Together we can do so much.”
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
All-Hands at Angola Fire
On January 8, 2016, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a chimney fire in the 34000 block of Bookhammer Landing Road in Angola. Engine 86-2 and Quint 86 reported a smoke condition upon arrival. The incident commander, Deputy Chief Jeff Blizzard, requested assistance from Lewes and Indian River and a cover up from Bethany Beach. Also responding was Rehoboth Fire Company EMS and Sussex County EMS. Firefighters from the three companies, made an aggressive interior attach in combination with roof ventilation. While they were hampered by the different truss roofs levels and lack of accessibility to the attic area, they made a good stop on the all-hands fire. - Submitted by Warren Jones, photos by Warren Jones and Chuck Snyder
February 2016
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
Two-for-One for VHC and Friends
Early on December 16, 2015, stations 1 and 27, 4 and 24, and 26 were alerted to a working fire on East Lake Street in Middletown. On arrival, it was determined that the house was vacant, at which time the situation became an outside attack only. Several lines were put in service as well as Tower 27 with the master stream. While working the alarm, Volunteer Hose was alerted to another house fire on Anderson Street in Middletown, one block away. Station 44 Smyrna from Kent County responded. The situation on Anderson Street was determined to be a dryer fire, which Smyrna quickly extinguished. The situation on Lake Street continued for several hours before being placed under control. Volunteer Hose would like to thank all the neighboring fire companies for their assistance on this alarm. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
February 2016
Elsmere Bakery Blaze
On Christmas Eve 2015, Elsmere Fire Company and surrounding area companies were alerted for a building fire at Serpes Bakery in Elsmere, a landmark in town since 1964. Unit 168 (Jim Facciolo) was first on scene and found fire showing through the roof. During the fire units were pulled from the roof and the interior due to what appeared to be a possible roof collapse. Once deemed safe, the units were put back inside to extinguish the fire. Units were on scene for over six hours. Responding to the fire were: Five Points, City of Wlimington, Wilmington Manor, Belvidere, Christiana, Mill Creek, NCC Paramedics, Delaware State Fire Marshals, dozens of Fire Police who handled traffic in and around the affected area, and the ladies of Stations 14 and 16, who provided water at the scene. - Submitted by Frank Maule, photos by the Five Points Fire Company, Ryan King and Chuck Hayes
February 2016
Goodwill FC Quells Vehicle Fire
Early on January 1, 2016, as most were returning home from their New Years events, Station 18 was alerted to a vehicle fire threatening a structure on Janvier Drive in New Castle Manor. Engine 18 made a quick response with the in-station crew and arrived to find one vehicle in the driveway involved. The crew extinguished the fire without incident and confirmed that there was no spread to the home. Rescue Engine 18 also responded and provided manpower. Crews operated for roughly an hour before returning to service. The incident was turned over to the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office. - Submitted by David Majewski, Jr.
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
Christiana House Blaze
Crews from Christina Engine 12-4, and 6-6 arrived to find fire showing from a single-story ranch home on Old Kirkwood Road. Chief 15-8 had command, and crews from 15, 12 and 6 made the initial knockdown. - Submitted by Don Moorhead
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Wilmington 2-Alarmer
The Wilmington Fire Department responded to a church fire on Vandever Avenue, which became a second alarm. - Submitted by BC James R. Jobes, photos by Ryan King and Chuck Hayes
Residential Fire in Clayton
On November 18, 2015, Station 45, Engine Company 51, QAC Station 6, Ambulance 64 and KM6 were alerted for the working residential structure fire on Chance Road in Clayton. While en route, Assistant Chief Alex Carrow in Command 45 requested the next due tanker company, reporting he had a large glow and smoke from about five miles away. On arrival, Command 45 reported a twostory, single-family dwelling fully involved and beginning to collapse. Engine Company 51 arrived first and placed two handlines in
service and began the attack. Additional units arrived and assisted. The structure had a total collapse just prior to the arrival of the first engine. Assistant Chief Alex Carrow had the Chance Road Command. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. Units responding: Command 45; Engines 45-4, 51-2, 51-3, 44-3; QAC 6-4; Quint 45; Rescues 45, 43, 51; Tankers 44; and QAC T-6, FM-19 (Billings). - Submitted by Skip Carrow, photos by Harvey Scott, Jerry Hull, Mike Carroll
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
Cover Story
Christmas Miracle for Displaced Newark Family
Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company (Newark Fire Department) responded to a house fire in the 200 block of Edjil Drive in the community of Yorkshire on December 21, 2015. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire throughout the two-story, single-family dwelling. One resident was home at the time of the fire and was able to escape along with a dog. Christiana, Mill Creek, Cranston Heights, Five Points, Minquas of Newport and NCC Emergency Medical Service assisted. The fire was under control in 30 minutes, however the fire department remained on the scene for
over two hours. The home was heavily damaged, and uninhabitable. The resident of the home was transported to the hospital by fire department ambulance to be evaluated for minor injuries. The fire was under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The displaced family included the father, mother, and five children. Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder, along with other area agencies, were coordinating efforts to assist the family, who lost everything just days before Christmas. - DFSN photos by Dave Wilson
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Working House Fire On January 7, 2016, Station 44, Station 45, Ambulance 64, and KM-6 were dispatched to a fire on Red Maple Road in the Willowwood development. Engine 44-2 responded under the command of 44-18 (Pierson, Jr.). Engine 44-2 arrived and placed a line to the rear and made entry to the basement through the Bilco doors, encountering heavy fire. Quint 45 made forcible entry through the front and found a heavy smoke condition. Other arriving units placed more lines, laddered, ventilated and searched. As the basement division was operating, they discovered a partial collapse of the first floor and an orderly evacuation was executed. Crews continued to operate in the basement an, after ventilation was performed and visibility became better, searches and overhaul were completed. First Assistant Chief Dave Neeld had Red Maple Command. While operating at the scene, crews from 45-3 also handled a MVC on DuPont Highway at Big Oak Road. Thank you to Volunteer Hose Company for providing an engine cover to Station 44. - Submitted by CHC
Sometimes it’s Harder Than it Has to Be Recently, Minquadale Station 22 was dispatched to a residential structure fire in the Holloway Terrace area. Engine 22-2 arrived first to find visible fire from the D side of a two-story structure. The crew advanced two attack lines through the front door where they were met with hoarder conditions. An emergency evacuation of the structure was ordered due to the hoarding conditions and crews switched to defensive operations. Multiple hose lines were placed in service to assist with extinguishment. Crews were working on scene for nearly nine hours. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
Jumper Call Unfounded Wilmington Fire Department units were dispatched for a reported jumper off the 11th Street Bridge. Wilmington Fire Department units, State of Delaware Police divers, and the New Castle County Dive Team searched for two hours with no person found. - Submitted by BC James R. Jobe
Claymont MVC Claymont Fire Company Rescue-Engine 13 was called to an MVC involving a bus on Namaans Road in front of the Tri-State Mall. Luckily, there were no passengers on the bus and both drivers received only minor injuries. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Overturn in Indian River
On December 23, 2015, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle accident on Phillips Branch Road just west of Indian Mission Road. It was reported to be a single-vehicle collision, overturned, with occupant trapped. Emergency response units from Indian River included Rescue 80 from the Oak Orchard facility and Engine 80-1 from the Long Neck facility, as well as the Delaware State Fire Police. It appeared that a pick-up was traveling on Phillip Branch and lost control approaching a sharp curve trapping the vehicle’s occupant. - Submitted by Indian River FD
Millville Works Car-into-Building On December 2, 2015, the Millville Volunteer Fire Company and Sussex County Paramedics were dispatched to an MVA on Docs Place in the Millville Medical Center. The Tactical Rescue Teams were alerted and dispatched since the emergency involved a car into a building. The police noted that the foot of the operator of a car slipped off the brake pedal as he was parking and stepped on the gas. The operator of the vehicle was uninjured and transported to Beebe Medical Center in Lewes for observation. No one inside the building was injured. Millville Deputy Chief Cody Lockwood declared the scene under control shortly thereafter. - Submitted by Bob Powell
MVC Sends 1 to Trauma Ctr. On November 11, 2015, Clayton Station 45, KCMD Ambulance 2, KM6, KM5 and Trooper 4 responded for an MVC with a reported overturn on Sewell Branch Road. Fire and EMS units arrived and began patient care and securing the vehicle. The operator was transported to Bay Health Hospital in Dover by KCMD Ambulance A-2 with KM6A. Chief Davis had the command. Units responding; Command 45, Rescue 45, Engine 45-4, KCMD Amb.-2, B64, Km6, Trooper 4, Sta 45 Fire Police, DSP. - Submitted by Skip Carrow, photo by Joe Jones
MVC Becomes Fatality On December 9, 2015, the Ellendale Fire Company responded to an MVC on Fleatown and North Old State Roads, which, two days later, ended up as an MVC with fatality. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
TRAINING
Millsboro Dive Team Drills in Betts Pond
South Bowers Air Boat Training
- Submitted by Larry Gum
Airboat training for the South Bowers Fire Company on December 29, 2015. - Submitted by South Bowers FC
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 19
TRAINING
Controlled Burn in Ellendale
Vehicle Rescue Training
On November 21, 2015, the Ellendale and Milton Volunteer Fire Companys did a controlled burn in the town of Ellendale. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
On November 18, 2015, Five Points Fire Department members loaded up and headed over to B&F Towing for Vehicle Rescue Training. Senior members got the chance to teach the juniors and newer members the jobs and tasks while operating at an accident scene. While the training was taking place Engine 17-4 handled two calls, a pedestrian struck by an auto on S. Maryland Avenue and an apartment fire in Newport. We would like to thank everyone who came out to train and help out. - DFSN photo by Chuck Hayes
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DNG 31st Civilian Support Completes Incident Command Training November 30 through December 3, 2015, 11 members of the Delaware National Guard’s 31st Civilian Support Team attended Incident Command 400 Level Training at the Delaware State Fire School. Students discussed the special management challenges of major incidents. Theyalso discussed the concept of area command as well as establishing multi-agency systems procedures. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Delaware Weekend at the National Fire Academy The Fire School is very proud to report that the Delaware Weekend at the National Fire Academy program was rejuvenated. Senior Instructor Matt Gajdos reported that DSFS was able to partner with the State of West Virginia Fire Academy to meet registration criteria and have the program move forward. Forty-one students from Delaware attended the classes that took place on November 6, 7, and 8, 2015. The highlight was the offering of the new NFA Fire Chief Levels I, II and II courses. (Pictured): Delaware students in front of the Fallen Firefighters Memorial at the NFA. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Sussex Co. Chiefs Incorporate Training with Meetings At the November meeting of the Sussex County Fire Chief’s Association, the chiefs began a project of setting time aside for a training session based on current topics. At the first meeting, the session focused on the Delaware State Fire School’s forcible entry trailer. Instructors Gordon Davis and Craig Slatcher familiarized members of the Chief’s Association on the use of the trailer, how it could be incorporated in their in-house training and also on the techniques of forcible entry itself. The new program was deemed a success with about 35 people in attendance. (Pictured): Instructors Gordon Davis and Craig Slatcher. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Develops New Elevator Rescue Prop In an effort to continually enhance its programs, staff of the Delaware State Fire School has developed two new props for its classes. One has been developed by DSFS personnel for elevator rescues that will simulate a panel and allow the students to make assessments and discuss procedures for safety in elevator environments. Also, a new alarm panel prop has been developed that will give hands-on training to students and make them more familiar with challenges faced in assessing situations where there is an alarm activation. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
Spring CVVFA Presidents Council and Meeting Weekend Scheduled The Carroll County Fire Training Center is the location for the Spring Presidents Council and Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association Meeting on Saturday and Sunday, April 2 and 3, 2016. The Center is located at 50 Kate Wagner Road in Westminster, Maryland. The Presidents Council Meeting is scheduled for 0900 Saturday. Representatives are expected from many Mid-Atlantic fire associations as well as some national organizations. Plans are underway for a Saturday night social event. The Spring CVVFA meeting will take place on Sunday. Everyone is invited.
Memberships are available for $5 per year dues. A special room rate of $71 per night plus tax has been negotiated at the Days Inn Westminster, located at 25 South Cranberry Road, Westminster, Maryland. The phone number is 410-857-0500; Fax: 410857-1407; e-mail: gm.daysinnwestminster@gmail.com The CVVFA is known for tackling tough problems in the fire and emergency services and providing innovative solutions. Come see what we are all about. Check www.cvvfa.org for updates.
Application for Individual Membership Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association www.cvvfa.org NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY: _________________________________________________________ STATE_________ ZIP_____________ HOME PHONE (____) ___________________ CELL (____) ____________________ FAX (____) _______________ EMAIL______________________ DATE OF BIRTH ______/________/__________ PUBLIC SAFETY OR OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL AFFILIATION ________________________________________________________ (fire, law enforcement, EMS, towing, DOT, industry, etc.) Dues $5 per year X______ years = $_______________ enclosed
Mail Checks Payable to CVVFA Mail to: Financial Secretary Stephen C. McBee 69 N. Washington Street Berkeley Springs, WV 25411 304 261 0505 Cell • 304 258 2403 Work Email – steve@arndt-mcbee.com
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
SCEMS
Sussex County EMS Celebrates 25 Years of Service
During a recent County Council session the Sussex County Council presented Sussex County EMS with a proclamation recognizing 25 years of outstanding and dedicated service. County Administrator Todd Lawson read the proclamation as Council President Mike Vincent presented the proclamation to SCEMS Director Bob Stuart. Current and past members of SCEMS were on hand for the presentation. SCEMS went into service January 15, 1991, when then-Council President Dale Dukes placed them in service over the radio. SCEMS started with a single response unit and 12 employees and has grown to 11 response units and 110 employees. SCEMS’ growth is directly linked
to the increase of population and call volume responding to approximately 3,700 calls the first year to in excess of 18,000 today. SCEMS looks forward to providing timely progressive care to the residents and visitors of Sussex County and stands by its motto of Caring People, Quality Service. SCEMS will kick off this year’s EMS week with a 25th Anniversary celebration weekend May 13 through 15, 2016. Follow Sussex County EMS on Facebook for photos, stories, and equipment from the past and further updates regarding the celebration weekend. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, SCEMS
Page 24, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
SCEMS
Karen Phillips Retires Paramedic III Karen Phillips retired on January 20, 2016, from Sussex County Emergency Medical Services after more than 25 years of service. Paramedic Phillips was hired on November 16, 1990, as one of the initial 10 paramedics to start the paramedic service in Sussex County. During her years of service, Paramedic Phillips has served on many committees, most notably chairing the Standards Operation Procedure’s committee for 15 years. She was the recipient of the Stork Award; the Phoenix Award, which recognizes a successful CPR save; and several service awards. “Karen Phillips has served with pride for the past 25 years,” said SCEMS Director Robert Stuart. “She is a fine paramedic and will be sorely missed. We wish her the best in whatever she chooses as her next endeavor.” Paramedic Phillips plans to relax and enjoy time with her family and friends. - Submitted by Eric Huovinen, SCEMS
Ann Tait Retires From SCEMS
SCEMS announced the retirement of one of its founding members, Ann (Marvel) Tait, after 25 years of service. Ann was instrumental in creating a paramedic service in Delaware when appointed a member of the Paramedic Task Force in 1987 by then-Governor Mike Castle. The Task Force’s recommendations for legislation were approved by the State Fire Chiefs and the Fire Prevention Commission and sent to the governor. A statewide paramedic system was signed into legislation in 1990. Tait was hired by the Sussex County Paramedics in 1990 to attend the first class of paramedic training at Kent General Hospital. She graduated on November 1, 1991, along with 11 others as a Nationally Registered and Delaware Certified Paramedic. Since then Ann has devoted herself to her career with SCEMS and as a volunteer. She has been an active member with the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Company and a member of the County Ambulance Association. She is an active instructor with the Delaware State Fire School and has taught Basic Life Support to countless numbers of EMTs as well as Emergency Medical Dispatch procedures. As Tait’s career with SCEMS progressed she held several important positions and won many awards. She was a Field Training Officer prior to being promoted to District Supervisor in 2005. In her first year of employment (1990), she won the Sussex County EMS Paramedic of the Year. In 1992 she was chosen as Delaware Paramedic of the Year. Other awards that were bestowed to her were the Clifford F. Lee Excellence in EMS (1992); Sussex County EMS Shift Excellence (2003); Nanticoke Rotary Paramedic of the Year (2004) and District Supervisor of the Year (2006, 2008 and 2013). At Tait’s retirement luncheon SCEMS Director Robert Stewart remarked that she is the, “Mother of SCEMS,” citing her role in helping to create the statewide paramedic service and her dedication to SCEMS. Tait plans to continue teaching for the Delaware State Fire School after her retirement from SCEMS. - Submitted by Sharon Wile
4 New Paramedics for SCEMS
Sussex County Emergency Medical Services would like to welcome Kami Brittingham, Derek Collins, Lee Rose, and Dylan Sharp to SCEMS. All employees started their journey with SCEMS on December 7, 2015. Kami Brittingham is a Delaware native who was born and raised in Sussex County. She recently graduated from Wor Wic Community College where she completed the paramedic program. In her free time, she enjoys playing roller derby with the Salisbury Roller Girls and other sports activities. Derek Collins holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Criminal Justice, which he obtained in 2012 at the University of South Dakota. Derek obtained his paramedic certification from Creighton University in 2013. Prior to coming to SCEMS, Derek was employed as a para-
medic in Wake County, South Carolina. He enjoys outdoor activities, exercising and cooking for friends and family. Lee Rose is a Delaware native who was born and raised in Frankford. He recently graduated from Delaware Technical & Community College where he completed the Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic program. Lee enjoys hunting, fishing and volunteering with the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company. Dylan Sharp became a firefighter with Lewes Fire Department in 2008 and went on to receive his paramedic certification in May 2015 from Horry Georgetown Technical College in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dylan enjoys spending time with his family and friends. - Story by Eric Huovinen, photos by Bonnie Boises
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
NCC*EMS
New Castle County Paramedics Host Resuscitation Academy
The New Castle County Paramedics hosted the first Resuscitation Academy to be held in the State of Delaware on November 19-20, 2015. The two-day course was brought to the state in a joint effort by the New Castle County government with support from the New Castle County Fire Chiefs Association. The typical survival rate for victims suffering cardiac arrest in most large cities in the United States is less than 10 percent. New Castle County, through ongoing changes in protocols and procedures, has an impressive survival rate of 50 percent for patients suffering witnessed ventricular fibrillation (V-Fib) cardiac arrest in instances where bystanders perform CPR. The intent of the Resuscitation Academy is to streamline how responders perform when they encounter a victim of cardiac arrest, to further improve survival rates. New Castle County has been tracking cardiac arrest survival since 2009 in a national database. The data analysis has verified that changes in response philosophy and focus have generated continued improvement in the cardiac arrest survival rates in New Castle County. “This was an opportunity to further refine our response to sudden cardiac arrest in our community,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New
Castle County Paramedics. “The Resuscitation Academy enabled us to enhance the coordination of what has become a multi-agency response to victims of sudden cardiac arrest to further improve survival rates.” The keynote speaker for this event was Greer Firestone, who is the founder of the “Heart in the Game” Foundation. His daughter Grace is a survivor of a sudden cardiac arrest, who was successfully resuscitated by a combined response by the New Castle County Paramedics, New Castle County Police and basic life support personnel from the fire service. The planning group from New Castle County EMS collaborated with the Howard County (MD) Fire and Rescue Department, who have been delivering Resuscitation Academy programs on the East Coast. The group also traveled to Seattle, Washington, to gain first hand exposure to the group that originated the Resuscitation Academy program. The Resuscitation Academy explored the science behind CPR, and included practical applications to illustrate the impact of “attention to details” during a cardiac arrest response. The program has generated interest from additional ALS and BLS agencies throughout Delaware. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29
NCC*EMS
NCC*EMS Assistant Chief Retires Assistant Chief Daniel G. Seador of the New Castle County Paramedics officially retired from county service on December 12, 2015, after 32-plus years with the New Castle County government. Seador is a graduate of the University of Delaware and was appointed to the EMS Division as an Ambulance Medical Technician (EMT) in April 1983. He completed the Cardiac Rescue Technician training program and was promoted to Ambulance Cardiac Technician in January 1984. He attended the now-Christiana Care Health System Paramedic Training and was promoted to Paramedic in April 1987. In the 1990s he served as a Paramedic Preceptor, the precursor to the present-day Field Training Officers who conduct field training and evaluation of paramedic candidates. Assistant Chief Seador was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in December 1994 where he has served as the platoon commander s in the Operations Branch. He was promoted to Senior Lieutenant in March 2004 with the implementation of the EMS career development plan. He was promoted to his current rank in July 2010, and has served as the commander of both the Administration/Special Operations Branch and Operations Branch of the Emergency Medical Services Division. He has facilitated notable projects and participated in many activities throughout his career. In 1988 he was in the first group of paramedics that provided medical support to the New Castle County Police ERT), which evolved in to today’s SWAT, and now has county paramedics permanently assigned to the team. He has served as the lead chef at several of the EMS Week BBQ events hosted by the EMS Division. He participated in the planning and hosting of the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the New Castle County Paramedic Service in 2000, the inaugural Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor's Reunion in February 2013 and more recently, the New Castle County Resuscitation Academy in Newark. His official commendations include a Commendation of Merit for a 1989 response to a cardiac arrest in a crane gantry in Claymont, two Distinguished Unit Citations, including his participation in the response to the multi-casualty incident involving 19 patients on Interstate 495 in 2002, and two Unit Letters of Commendation. He has also received recognition from the State Senate and Wilmington City Council for his actions at the three-alarm fire and multi-casualty incident at the Crestview Apartments in 2006. The Emergency Medical Services Division congratulates Assistant Chief Seador on his retirement and offers its thanks for his years of service to New Castle County. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
AC Daniel Seador Retirement Reception
New Castle County EMS hosted an informal reception for Assistant Chief Daniel Seador on December 18, 2015, at the Department of Public Safety Headquarters. Several members of the EMS Division staff offered their best wishes on his retirement. (Left to right): Lt. Michael McColley, Lt. Christopher Johnson, Lt. Martha Russ, Chief Lawrence Tan, Ms. Monica Seador, Assistant Chief Daniel Seador, Assistant Chief Mark Allston, Assistant Chief Mark Logemann, Captain Dawn Gulezian, Lt. Michael Nichols and Lt. Kelli Zullo. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
495 Rollover
On December 5, 2015 the New Castle County Paramedics were dispatched to a crash with a vehicle overturned on Interstate 495 southbound at the Route 141 interchange. The vehicle had apparently rolled several times and struck a trailer, resulting in the license plate of the vehicle becoming embedded in the trailer. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig
This issue will feature Warren Jones, someone in the Delaware Fire Service that we all know very well. Warren joined the Elsmere Fire Company in 1960 and is currently an active member with the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company since moving to Sussex County in 2005. Warren graduated from H.C. Conrad High School in 1963 and served in the Delaware Air National Guard. Many of us in New Castle County remember dealing with Warren when he worked at A.H.Angerstein in Elsmere. He worked there for 38 years before moving south of the canal with his lovely wife, Rose. Warren served the Elsmere Fire Company in both the fire line and administrative sides serving as Lieutenant; Captain, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief and Chief, then moving over to become a Director, Secretary, Treasurer and President. Warren’s fire service didn’t end with Elsmere, however, he simply joined Rehoboth Beach VFC where he has served as Fire Recorder, Assistant Engineer, Station Manager, PIO and Driver/Operator. Warren received most of his firefighting training at the Delaware State Fire School, eventually becoming a Senior Instructor with over 40 years experience providing education to our younger generation and some of us older firefighters, as well. He is also a graduate of the NFA and has attended training classes at FDIC and the IAFC Symposium in the Sun. All of his fire service background enabled him to move through the chairs of the New Castle County Volunteer Firemen’s Association to become President, and then through the chairs of the DVFA, serving as President for 2008-2009. With his background serving in these associations he accepted the position of Executive Manager for the DVFA in 2011. Warren has done an exceptional job in this position and is most always at the county meetings, out of state meetings and of course spending countless hours in Legislative Hall when needed. Warren followed in the footsteps of his father and mother who were very active with the Elsmere FC. His dad was Chief Engineer for 16 years and also served as a board member. His mom was very active in the Ladies Auxiliary, hardly ever missing an event or catering. I can remember them both very well working together when Station 16 hosted County/Chiefs meetings. His brother was active before entering the US Air Force. The highlight of Warren’s service revolved around his son, Christopher. I can remember Chris being on the fire apparatus at parades or around the station as their mascot when he was a youngster. At age 15 he became a junior. He loved every part of the fire company activities and was very active until his untimely death. Warren said that he still cherishes his short life here on earth and feels emptiness of his passing. Warren is grateful that Chris had the chance to experience what we do. He learned and saw more of life than kids twice his age. Rose and Warren, I know that Chris is watching over you two and very proud of what his father has accomplished. Warren has been the recipient of many awards and accolades during his career. This includes three Life Save awards, four Incident Citations and the Medal of Honor for Heroism from the Elsmere FC. Since being with the Rehoboth Beach VFC he has received the \
Meritorious Life Save award from the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association. In addition he has been inducted into the DVFA and Delmarva Fire Service Halls of Fame. Warren stated that he didn’t want to belittle any of these awards because he was truly appreciative of them, however the true highlight is the people that he has met and worked with both on the fire scenes, and in the companies and associations. These folks are remarkable. Seeing their love and dedication to serve their fire companies and auxiliaries are experiences that he will remember the most. While serving the NCCVFA, he received the County Executive’s Excellence in Volunteer Leadership, not once but twice. This shows how much dedication and devotion Warren has for the fire service, not only in New Castle County but throughout the State of Delaware. His only regret is that his son Christopher did not live long enough to relish these things. Some of the highlights of his time with EFC are the fires that he either commanded, drove an engine/ladder or was on the back step/jump seat. These would include fires at Avisun, Doeskin, Lou’s Shoe Bazaar, Cinema 141, Grants Department Store, Independence Mall, Delaware Hospital for Mentally Ill, Latino Community Center, Knights of Columbus Hall, C & W Speed Shop, Claymont High School, Astro Shopping Center and natural disasters like the floods in Elsmere. How many of these were some of you on? I know that I made several of these as a member of Five Points. I
know that Warren was Chief of several of these alarms … and Warren was a good chief! Of course we can’t forget the blizzards in Sussex County after he moved down there and was active with RVFC. Warren has had the opportunity during his career to experience several milestones. He was President of the NCCVFA when the World Trade Center was attacked in 2001. He was returning from meetings in Dover and going to the dedication of the NCC Dispatch Center only to find all entrances blocked by police vehicles. He then responded to Elsmere and was part of the fire task force and driving Squrt 16. The DVFA assigned him the task of handling Delaware fire companies responses to the funerals and memorial services for members of FDNY. Warren and many other fire service folks from NCC attended a memorial service for one of the youngest members of FDNY to die in the WTC. They finally found his remains at the end of the excavation of ground zero along with the rest of his crew. His name was Michael D’Auria. Warren said this is something that will forever be in his mind and he is glad that he had the opportunity to do these things for our brothers and sisters in New York. One last item that Warren added to his resume was, when President of the DVFA in 2009, he had the distinct pleasure to lead 400 Delaware firefighters in the Presidential Inaugural Parade. Of course we all know that our good friend Joe Biden was selected to be the Vice President and being the good friend that he has been, it was an honor for us to be there. Warren stated that it was a very cold day but one that he will never forget. I remember seeing films and pictures of all of our gals and guys huddling around the heaters set up in tents for them. Sure wish I could have been there. Warren said, “That was one of the highlights of my career.” I asked Warren who might have been one of his biggest mentors during his rise through the fire service and he said that would have to be one of the greatest fire service people he ever knew, Mr. Lou Amabili. Not surprising for many of us. He said that they talked all the time about various fire service issues and how they could possibly solve some of them. I asked Warren what words of wisdom he would have for the younger generation coming on board now. “I would tell them to spend a lot of time at the fire station when they first join, learn what it is all about, learn to know the people and listen to them and get to know them as well as you can. Our creed crosses many generations. We are a big brother and sisterhood. There is this incredible bond that joins us together. Then learn the business of the fire service and how it works. Train with an open mind because someday you will learn that we touch lives, you will touch lives, it will happen. Lastly, I would tell them to enjoy themselves. There is no greater gift in this world than what we do. No greater gift!” I would just like to say that it has been a pleasure to do this article on Warren and a lot of what he said and has done doesn’t surprise me. Warren will be remembered for a long time for all that he has done for the Delaware Fire Service, and I don’t think he is done yet. Warren, thanks for a great job!
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 31
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Roxana VFC’s Admin and Line Officers for 2016 (Left to right; front row): Todd Marvel, President; Andy Johnson, Vice President; Chris Uibel, Fire Chief; Glenn Johnson, Sr., Secretary; Guy Hudson, Treasurer; Debbie Hall, EMS Secretary. (Back row): Larry Smith, Board of Directors; Mike Kaiser, Board of Directors; Glenn Johnson, Jr., EMS Captain; Jesse Cobb, Board of Directors; Wayne Bennett, Board of Directors. - Submitted by Barbara Walls
Harrington Officers for 2016 The Harrington Fire Company is pleased to announce their elected and appointed officers for 2016. Elected Fire Officers: Chief - Rob Taylor; Fire Recorder - Eddie Welch. Appointed Fire Officers: Deputy Chief - Robbie Brode; 1st Assistant Chief - Kenny Brode; 2nd Assistant Chief - Danny McLaughlin; 3rd Assistant Chief - Jason Brode; Captain - Cody Rash; Captain - Dean Helsel; Captain - Derek Bailey; Captain - Jeff Wilson; Chief Engineer - Rob Wyatt; Assistant Engineer - Fred Wyatt III; Assistant Engineer - Garry Alsop; Assistant Engineer - Derrick Brode; Fire Police - Bill Bonniwell; Fire Police - Joe Zeroles; Fire Police Mark Scribner, Sr.; Fire Police - Dave Anderton; Fire Police - Rob Kimmey. Elected Administrative Officers: President - Derrick Brode; Vice
President - Mark Scribner, Sr.; Secretary - Ryan Welch; Assistant Secretary - Pablo Reyes; Treasurer - Mike Layton; Assistant Treasurer Ryan Welch; Financial Secretary - Ray Blanchette; Bingo Chairman Jack Vogel; Bingo Financial Secretary - Pablo Reyes; Hall Chairman Bill Bonniwell; Employee Supervisor - Kevin Galyean. Elected EMS Officers: EMS Captain - Mark Langford; EMS Financial Secretary - Chad Robinson. Board of Directors: Chairman - Robbie Brode; Vice Chairman Mark Scribner, Sr.; Secretary - Ryan Welch; Garry Alsop; Dave Anderton; Ray Blanchette; Derrick Brode; Mark Langford; Mike Layton; Bobby Outten; John Phillips; Shawn Scouten; Rob Taylor; Bobby Wilson; Rob Wyatt. - Submitted by Chad Robinson
Good Will Officers for 2016 On December 2, 2015, the Good Will Fire Company held their annual election of officers. Following are the 2016 officers of the company. Fire Line: Chief Emeritus - Grover Ingle; Chief - Chris Robinson; Deputy Chief Emeritus - Joe Mullen; Deputy Chief - Keith Stockman; Assistant Chief - David Majewski, Jr.; Chief Engineer - Matt Bailey. Administration: President Emeritus - Erv Thatcher; President - Tom Clayton; Vice President Bill Robinett; Treasurer - Bob Briggs; Secretary Terri Guyer Board of Directors: Jay Guyer - Chairman; Ken Sturgis; David Majewski, Sr.; Bob Haug; Ray Krett, Jr.; Bill Emory; Keith Wilson; Rick Rokita; Samantha Adank; Aritha Brown. - Submitted by David Majewski, Jr.
Dover Line Officers for 2016 On December 16, 2015, City of Dover Mayor Robin Christiansen swore in the 2016 Dover Fire Department Line officers in the Council Chambers at City Hall. (Left to right): Fire Chief Carleton Carey, Jr.; Deputy Fire Chief - Ronald Rhodes; 1st Assistant Chief - David Carey; 2nd Assistant Chief - Glenn Whitt; 3rd Assistant Chief - Duane Reeder; 4th Assistant Chief Michael O’Connor, Jr.; 1st Fire Line Captain - Michael O’Connor III; 2nd Fire Line Captain - David Knight. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33
Bethany Beach 2016 Officers & Admin Staff
Fire Line Officers led by Chief Brian Martin.
Board of Directors led by President Steve Lett. The Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company installation of Fire Line Officers and Administrative Staff was held on October 3, 2015. The administrative year is January 1 to December 31. New officers take office on October 1, therefore the newly elected/appointed leadership staff remain in office until September 30, 2016. - Submitted by Steve Lett
Firefighter of the Year Alice Hopple.
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Greenwood Fire Company Line Officers (Right to left): Fire Chief Mark Anderson, Deputy Chief Tom Jones, 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Moran, 3rd Assistant Chief Chris Petrone, Fire Captain Justin Bickling, Fire Captain Jeff Lecates, Safety Officer Donald Donovan, Chief Engineer Jason Fannin. Not Pictured: 1st Assistant Chief Bruce Bowman, and Ambulance Captain Dale Breeding. - Submitted by Mark Anderson
The 2016 Greenwood Admin Officers (Left to right): President Phil Vannicola, Vice-President Zachary Jones, Secretary John Givens, Treasurer Dave Minton, Fire Recorder Justin Boyce, Director Leon Rust, Director Ricky Short, and Director Sammy Millman. - Submitted by Mark Anderson
2016 Greenwood Fire Police (Right to left): Clay Yocum, Donnie Pearson, Dale Willey, Lester Beachy, David Miller and Gordon Schrock. - Submitted by Mark Anderson
Millsboro Holds Joint Installation of Officers On October 27, 2015 The Joint Installation of Officers was held at the Millsboro Fire Department for Sussex County. (Pictured) Steven Deery, Jr., of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Department, outgoing President Sussex County Volunteer Firefighters Association; and Bill Henry Buckaloo, Lewes Fire Department, outgoing President of the Sussex County Fire Chief’s Association. Both are past-Chiefs of their respective stations, and began serving in 2006 and have gone through the chairs of both associations together over the past six years. We are continuing our tradition and both are officers in the State Chiefs Association. - Submitted by Steven Deery
February 2016
Ellendale Fire Police 2016
75-30 - Tim Coverdale (Captain) not present; 75-31 - Wilson Gillespie, Sr. (not present); 75-33 - J.R. Webb; 75-34 - Jim Larrimore, and 75-35 - John Wothers. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Ambulance Station 64 Officers for 2016 On December 14, 2015, American Legion Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service, Station 64, elected officers at their December meeting. The 2016 elected officers are: Russell Stinson, Captain; Samantha Neeld, 1st Lieutenant; and, Eric Neeld, 2nd Lieutenant. The elected Station Representitives to the Board of Directors includes: Minor Hardin, James Bianco and Chris Manganelli. - Submitted by Russell Stinson
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
Ellendale Line Officers for 2016
The following members were made line officers for the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company: Chief - Andy Jones; Deputy Chief - G.K. Walton; 75-16 - Andy Hamilton; 75-17 - Kyle Perry; 75-18 - Jay Jones; 75-19 - Robert Foster; 75-20 - Tony Chisenhall; 75-21 Jonathan Walton; Safety Officer - Chaz Schmitt; Chief Engineer Jamie Webb; 1st Assistant Engineer - Kevin Twilley; 2nd Assistant Engineer - Brock Phillips. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Ellendale Administrative Office for 2016
President - Rowland Moore, Jr.; Vice President - Jay Jones; Treasurer - Kyle Perry; Assistant Treasurer - Cory Smith; Building and Grounds - Kevin Twilley; Hall Rentals - Chaz Schmitt; and Communications Officer - Tony Chisenhall. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Citizens’ Hose Company Officers for 2016
Line Officers – (Standing): Easley Pierson Captain, Tyler Torres - Lieutenant, Steve Long - Lieutenant, Brian Ferguson Lieutenant, David Hufford - Lieutenant. (Seated): Dave Neeld - 1st Assistant Chief, Brian Jarrell - Fire Chief, and Dean Johnson -2nd Assistant Chief. (Not pictured): Lieutenant Eric Neeld.
Engineers – (Standing): Ken Spencer, Mitchell Scott and John Love. (Seated): Wayne Ford, Curt Gruber (Chief Engineer) and Tom Sullivan.
Board of Directors – (Standing, left to right): Bruce Ennis, Isaac Willis, Chris Hudson, Jonathan Rutledge, Gerald Mood and Isaac Hankins. (Seated left to right): Brian Jarrell, Brooks Keen and Ken Steele. (Not pictured): Tate Coulbourne, Ernie Kulhanek, and Alan F. Robinson, Jr.
(Sitting left to right): Jonathan RutledgeTreasurer, Brooks Keen - President and Kenneth Steele- Secretary. (Standing): Keith Noel - Chaplain, Michael Keen Historian, Greg Parsell - Trustee, Gerald Manley - Vice President and Blake Bowers Chaplain.
Fire Police – (Left to right): Bruce Ballard, Al Lenox, Jim Masten and Robert Lightcap. - DFSN photos by Gene Shaner
Past-President Caldwell uses the gavel ending Outgoing (past-President) John ‘Jack’ Caldwell leads the Citizens’ Hose Company of his tenure as President of Citizens’ Hose Company. - DFSN photos by Gene Shaner Smyrna in the Pledge to Allegiance before he turns the gavel over.
Minquadale Officers for 2016 On December 7, 2015, the Minquadale Fire Company held their elections for the 2016 Executive and Line Officers. Congratulations to the following Executive Officers: President Matthew Martin, Vice President Allan ‘Tex’ Thompson, Secretary Kim Powers, Treasurer Teresa Petrucci, Financial Secretary Cullen Edwards, Executive Board Paul Taylor and Herb Toterotot and Trustee Brandon Hand. Congratulations to the following Line Officers: Chief Joseph Day, Deputy Chief Chuck Taylor, 1st Assistant Chief Matt Hardy, 2nd Assistant Chief Gary Lambert, Captain Chris Kanich, Rescue Lieutenant Matt Marsella, Chief Engineer Dave Garcia and Assistant Engineer Clyde Painter. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
Up Close & Personal
February 2016
On January 4, 2016, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched for a reported gas leak at the Food Lion located in the Midway Shopping Center. When firefighters arrived they were told there was an odor of gas in the building. Firefighters checked the building and confirmed there were no hazards and it was unknown what the odor was coming from. The Incident Commander was Deputy Chief Robbie Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode Clayton Fire Company father and son Mike and Jake Lucas. - DFSN photo by Mike Carroll
On November 24, 2015, Minquadale held their Second Annual Vehicle Rescue Competition. Four teams worked to stabilize a vehicle, remove all windows, doors, the roof, and displace the dash with the fastest time. Assistant Chief Matthew Hardy and Firefighter Brandon Hand had the best time of 18:35, beating last year’s record of 19:15. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
Rehoboth Firefighter Albert Apicella, gives thumbs up after giving oxygen to a dog rescued from a mobile home fire. - Submitted by Warren Jones, photo by Chuck Snyder
February 2016
2016 Five Points Fire Company Officers
Congratulations to the newly elected fire company officers for 2016. We wish them great success. Fran Williams - President; Frank Oakman - Vice President; Keith Bowman - Treasurer; Bob Sutton - Secretary; Bob Zulinski - Financial Secretary; Chuck Hayes - 3-Year BOD; John Adams Past-President BOD; and Gene Johnson - Past-Chief BOD Frank Lindell - Chief; Mike Testa - Deputy Chief; and Joe Paoli- 1st Assistant Chief. Captains: Engine: Ryan King; Ladder: Brian Cox; and Rescue: Tom Manley. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes, photo by Kimmie Ingram
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 39
Dennis Godek Sworn In
At the December 2015 New Castle County Fire Chief Association meeting held at the Cranston Heights Fire Company, past-Chief of the Elsmere Fire Company, Dennis Godek, was sworn in as President for the year 2016. Dennis is retired from the New Castle County Police Department and is the career staff supervisor and holds the title as 12 8-A for the Christiana Fire Company. The officers and members want to congratulate Dennis and wish him the best luck for this upcoming year. - Submitted by Frank Maule, photo by Ryan Godek
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Rehoboth Beach 2016 Admin. Officers (Left to right): Dickie Mitchell - Assistant Secretary; Ronnie Blizzard President; Danny Mitchell - Vice President; Ted Doyle - Treasurer; and Rob Dobak - Assistant Treasurer. (Not pictured): Chuck Snyder - Executive Member; and Dawn Lynch - Secretary. - Submitted by Warren Jones; photo by Chuck Snyder
Rehoboth Beach 2016 Fire Officers (Left to right): Chatham Marsch - Chief; Lenny Marsch - 1st Assistant Chief; Craig Farren - 3rd Assistant Chief; Howard Blizzard - Safety Officer; and Vaughn McCabe Captain. (Not pictured): Jeff Blizzard - Deputy Chief; Ralph Karl - 2nd Assistant Chief; and Charles Clark - Captain. - Submitted by Warren Jones; photo by Chuck Snyder
Felton Officer Installation 2016
The Felton Community Fire Company held its Installation of Officers program on January 6, 2016, where members were sworn into office for 2016. Earl Dempsey, President of the Kent County Firefighters Association, officiated at the ceremony. The following individuals are appointed to serve under Fire Chief Kevin R. Sipple: Deputy Chief Gary Moore; 1st Assistant Chief Matt Espil; 2nd Assistant Chief Greg Schulties; Captain Rodney Simons; Captain Jeff DeCarlo, Jr.; Crew Leader William Thomas; Crew Leader Brent Schoof; Chief Engineer Adam Jarrell; Engineer Donald Deputy; Engineer Donald Killen; Fire Police William Jester; Fire Police Randy
Wood; and Fire Police Ken Ryder. The following Administrative Officers were elected to serve for 2016: President Todd Hannah, Vice President Adam Jarrell, Secretary William Thomas, Treasurer Ken Ryder, Assistant Secretary Shannon Smith, Fire Recorder Brent Schoof, Public Relations Officer/Historian Eugene Tucker, Director William Sipple, Director William Jester, Director Greg Shulties, Director Robert Watts, Director Jamie Rau and Director Rodney Simons. - Submitted by Eugene Tucker, photos by Robert Watts
Elsmere Officers for 2016
On January 4, 2016, the Elsmere Fire Company had its annual installation dinner for the officers and members. The officers were sworn in by past-President and past-DVFA President William Walton, Sr. Administration Officers: President Kenn Dunn, Sr.; Vice-President John Smith, Sr.; Recording Secretary Thomas Mitten; Membership Secretary Denise Zielinski; Treasurer Michael Schaal; Assistant Treasurer William Thomas. Directors: Patrick Giles, John S. Giles, Gerald Dougherty and
Michael Wiktorowicz. Fire Line Officers: Chief James Facciolo, Deputy Chief Charles F Sayers, 1st Assistant Chief Justin Schweiger, 2nd Assistant Chief Michael Edwards, Engine Captain Bobby Maxwell, Ladder Captain Gabe Bukowski, Rescue Captain Stephen Facciolo and Ambulance Captain Nancy Branock. Congratulations to all the officers. - Submitted by Frank Maule
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
New Engine for Millville
The Millville VFC has placed in-service Engine 84-2, a 2015 Seagrave Marauder II. It is equipped with a Cummins ISL9, 450 hp motor and an Allison 4000-EVS transmission, a 2000gpm Hale single stage pump, and a 750 gal. tank. It is equipped with six preconnected attack lines, 850 feet of three-inch hose and 1000 feet of five-inch supply line, along with a front suction. This Seagrave was sold by Todd Fell of Emergency Equipment Sales of Trenton, NJ. - Submitted by Bob Powell
A Milestone, Again, in Harrington In the entire history of the Harrington Fire Company, only four individuals have held all three of the highest offices; President, Fire Chief and EMS Captain. The first two individuals to achieve this impressive milestone were Bob Taylor and Harold Brode. Bob served as President in 1969, EMS Captain from 1971 to 1972 and Fire Chief from 1983 to 1984. Harold served as EMS Captain from 1973 to 1975, President from 1989 to 1990 and Fire Chief in 2000. Following the installation of officers on January 4, 2016, two more individuals achieved this honor — both sons of the first two men. Derrick Brode served as EMS Captain in 1998, Fire Chief from 2008 to 2011 and was installed as President for 2016. Rob Taylor served as EMS Captain in 1995 and 1998, President in 2005, EMS Captain again from 2010 to 2015 and was elected Fire Chief for 2016. - Submitted by Chad Robinson
Kicking Off the Holidays The annual tradition of Thanksgiving Lunch at Volunteer Hose was held on November 25, 2015. Members and staff of the fire company had a great meal to kick of the holiday season. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
Symposium in the Sun, Clearwater, FL
Delaware was well represented at this IAFC-VCOS event on November 12-15, 2015. Attending from the DVFA was Warren Jones, Joe Zeroles, Ted Walius, Richard Perillo and past-President Tony Guzzo and his wife Jackie. From the NCCVFA: President Wally Poppe and his wife Cheryl; Vice-President Les Warrick and Sandy; Vice-President Keith Bowman and Merrie. In addition to the above, Chief Richard Perillo and Deputy Chief Bill Anderson (Christiana); past-Chief and Commissioner Ken McMahon; President Danny Carrier, Chief Quint Saienni, and Deputy Chief Randy Broadwater (Hockessin); Deputy Chief Jeff Blizzard and President Ron Blizzard (Rehoboth). We also had a visit from retired BC-WFD, Ray Brock who is now residing in Clearwater Beach. - Submitted by Bob Romig
Scouts Training On November 18, 2015, a local group of Cub Scouts working to gain their Fire Safety Badge visited the station. The cubs went through different training stations to learn about basic fire safety, fire apparatus and the tools firefighters carry, first aid and how to treat minor injuries, and how to use fire extinguishers. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
Sussex Fire Service Members
Correll Named Clayton November Member of the Month At the November 15, 2015, meeting of the Clayton Fire Company the company honored junior member Dakota Correll as the October Member of the Month. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson
Sussex County Fire Service members who belong to the Masonic Order, got together recently for a group photo in Georgetown with the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Delaware, Dean Disharoon from Dagsboro. Members in the photo: Georgetown FC: Bob Ricker, Jamie Locklear, Louis Briggs III and David Ronwider. Indian River FC: Stephen Miller, Patrick Miller, James Wagner, Rick Stewart and Ray Russell. Dagsboro FC: B. J. McGee and Brian Gibbons. Memorial FC: Bill Tobin. Millsboro FC: Lew Talley and James Burton. Frankford FC: Tommy Bacon, Casey Daisey and Hunter Holland. DE State Officers: George Mare, Sam Katz and Dean Disharoon. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Ambulance Station 64 November Member of the Month David C. Harrison, Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service would like to recognize Anthony Jones as the outstanding Member of the Month for November 2015. Anthony joined Station 64 as a volunteer in February 2012. He received his National Registry EMT certification in September 2015 and has since completed his Field Training with Station 64. During November, Anthony made 12 ambulance runs and accumulated 38 points. Congratulations to Anthony! - Submitted by Russell Stinson
Seaford Makes Donation to the Delaware Burn Camp
At the November meeting of the Sussex County Volunteer Firefighters Association the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department made a donation to the Delaware Burn Camp as a result of funds earned by the annual Seaford Firefighter’s Softball Tournament. This year, event chairman Jack Wilson (right) gave a check in the amount of $9,320 to Joanne Hutchison and John Lattomus of the Burn Camp. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Ambulance Station 64 October Member of the Month David C. Harrison, Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service would like to recognize Brent Gbadebo as the outstanding Member of the Month for October 2015. Brent joined Station 64 in September as a Nationally Registered EMT from Trinidad. He has completed his Reciprocity Training and is now Field Training with Station 64. During October, Brent made 19 ambulance runs and accumulated 57 points. Brent has also attended numerous functions and events. Congratulations to Brent! - Submitted by Russell Stinson
Clayton Wins Toys for Tots Football Game On November 22, 2015, the Clayton Fire Company and the Clayton Police Department took on their counterparts from the Smyrna fire and police departments. In the end, the team from Clayton came out on top by a score of 31-6. But the real winners were the kids that will have a happy Christmas because of all the toys donated, which were donated to the local US Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. Over $100 was also donated at the gate, which went to the Smyrna/Clayton Police Shop with a Cop program. A special thank you goes to PetSmart of Dover for taking part in collecting gifts for this year’s event. Between the gifts donated and what was collected at the Dover PetSmart a 20-foot enclosed trailer was filled from front to back and floor to ceiling. - Submitted by Skip Carrow, photo by Jerry Hull
Delaware Firefighters Announce Poster & Essay Contest Winners
Supporting the Burn Camp
On the chilly morning of November 14, 2015, the Minquadale Fire Company supported the Delaware Burn Camp by running in the 7th Annual Fire Run/Walk 5K. Ten members and friends raced in six different age brackets, bringing home three gold medals, three silver medals, and two bronze medals. All the runners had a great time supporting a great cause. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
The Annual Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Poster and Essay awards program was held on January 10, 2016. This year’s event was hosted by the Cheswold Fire Company. A crowd of over 200 people were in attendance to congratulate the children who were first, second and third place winners. Children kindergarten through third grade prepared posters on their assigned topics. Children 4th through 8th grade wrote essays. The DVFA sincerely thanks the teachers, administrators, parents and individual fire companies that again made this project a success. (Pictured, Row 1): Abigail Ford, Braden Hobson and Amaambo AjuaAlemanji, Sean Albert. (Row 2): Jayauna Dunning, Gianna Plumley, Marissa Coulbourne, Jeremiah Schrock, Shane Wright, Faith Hollister, Katherine Rippon and Madeline Spelock. (Row 3): Chase Morris, Alexia Inhof, Hazel Miner, Ashley Mason, Sarah Adkins, Daeshawn Lewis, Aydan Vanderwende and Austin Byler. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
Santa Visits Clayton
Keeping up a tradition that started back in the 1950s, members of mer than winter with temperatures up around 70 degrees. About 25 - Submitted by Skip Carrow, the Clayton Fire Company escorted Santa around the Town of members took part. photos by Mike Carroll and Jerry Hull Clayton on Christmas Eve. This year’s weather was more like sum-
Firefighters Complete Rookie Year On November 17, 2015, two members of Five Points Fire Company completed their probationary period with the Wilmington Fire Department. Firefighters Ryan Hahn and Eric Johnson completed a rigorous probationary year where they were tested on their ability to maintain physical fitness standards, know their first-due district, learn SOPss, Rules and Regulations, and learn the responsibilities of a Driver/ Operator. Firefighters Hahn and Johnson earned National Fire Protection Association Firefighter Level I and Firefighter Level II certifications as well as the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician's Basic Level EMT certification. They join several other members of Five Points who are Wilmington firefighters. The Five Points Fire Company would like to extend our congratulations to Ryan and Eric and wish them continued success throughout their career. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Smyrna High Wins State Championship
Citizens Hose Company units escorted the Smyrna High School Football team on their way to the Division 1 State Football Championship. Smyrna High defeated Sallies and won the DIAA Division 1 State Championship. They were then led back into town escorted by the Smyrna and Clayton Fire Companies. - Submitted by CHC, photo by Jerry Hull
CHC Award Ceremony
Recently, Citizens’ Hose Company held its award ceremony for the winners of its annual Fire Prevention Essay and Poster contest. - Submitted by CHC
5-Year-Old Gets Special Birthday
Five-year-old Gavin Bender faces medical issues every day. Diagnosed with severe allergy, asthma, bipolar and autism issues, young Gavin was given a birthday party by his parents on January 9, 2016. Gavin had a special request. He wished he could go to his party on a fire engine. The Laurel Fire Department got word of his special request and made a very special day for him happen. He came to the station and received a tour, and then saw a demonstration of Tower 81. A very special visitor (Sparky) gave him a visit and then he was transported to his party on Engine 81-3. The fire department also provided gifts for the other children at his party. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
Santa’s Back in Town
A great crowd turned out on a dreary December 1, 2015, night when Santa Claus arrived at the beach as the Christmas season kicked off in Rehoboth Beach. The Annual Rehoboth Beach Hometown Christmas Parade is sponsored by the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company. Floats, bands and fire trucks, all decorated for the season, made for a festive night. Mayor Sam Cooper drove the fire truck with Santa to the station where Santa greeted the kids who enjoyed cookies and hot chocolate. - DFSN photos by Chuck Snyder
NYSAFC COMPANY OFFICERS LEADERSHIP TRAINING (COLT) PROGRAM ANNOUNCED The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) is pleased to announce its 2015-2016 Company Officers Leadership Training (COLT) series. The demands on today’s fire officers of all ranks are constantly increasing. NYSAFC recognizes that leadership development is necessary now to protect the future of the fire service. To meet the need for this critical training, NYSAFC offers the COLT program throughout New York state. For COLT, NYSAFC has brought together a slate of instructors, nationally renowned experts in company officer leadership both on and off the fireground, for an energizing learning experience. Each COLT program will feature the lectures “Company Level Leadership: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” with Lieutenant Tim Klett, FDNY and “The Fire Officer” with Battalion Chief Daniel McMaster, Alexandria (VA) Fire Department. The 2015-2016 COLT series will be held in the Capital District (February 5-6, 2016 - Latham, NY) and Onondaga County (April 89, 2016 - East Syracuse, NY). COLT also was held in Orange County in December 2015. Registration for COLT is $175 per person (for NYSAFC members) and $200 per person for non-members. Both pre-registration and on-site registration will be available for all sites. The two-day COLT program will run on Friday from 0900 1700 p.m. and on Saturday from 0900. - 1200 at each site. Full program details and a pre-registration form are available at www.nysfirechiefs.com. Pictured: COLT lecturers Battalion Chief Daniel McMaster, Alexandria (VA) Fire Department and Lieutenant Tim Klett, FDNY. Photo by Tom Bierds
February 2016
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
Delaware Fire Service in Action
and s, along with ALS 5, Dover firefighter 201 e 21, fir ber use ho cem a De of On ed to the report BLS, were dispatch community. in the Capitol Park or Jr., photo by DFD nn Co O’ J. el - Submitted by Micha
On January 9, 2016, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched for a vehicle fire on Jackson Ditch Road. - Submitted by Earl Brode
ay fire at the house ters battled a midd Wilmington firefigh mbers. The family dog was rescued n me of one of their ow lmington firefighters. by Wi James R. Jobes - Submitted by BC
Station 75 (Ellendale) an d 85 (Milton), Medic 101 an d A85 were dispatched for a house fire on Holy Church Lane in Ellendale. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
On January 8, 201 6, Sta Paramedics were dis tions 78, 72, 47, and Sussex County patched to a house fire on Hi Road. - Submitted by Mark Anderson ckman
Delmar-Laurel-Sharptown, responded to a commercial building fire at Bury Boat and Marine in Delmar on December 9, 2015. - DFSN photo by Chris Lucas
Claymont apartment fire closes out 2015. - Submitted by Gary Plo tts
Ladder Aetna Hose, Hook and On December 10, 2015, Rose Tree hunt in Glasgow. on responded to an MVC Wilson - DFSN photos by Dave
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service in Action
fire. Memory Road trailer derson An - Submitted by Mark
Lucky in Harrington. - Submitted by Earl Brode
exposure to a barn uish a car fire with a. yrn Sm north of oto by Jerry Hull bmitted by CHC, ph
CHC crews exting - Su
Early on November 15, 2015, the Five Points Fire Company was alerted for a multi-residentia l fire with peop le trapped on th e 600 block of Homestead Ro ad in Alban Park . - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Claymont Fire Comp any E135 handled a car fire in the 200 block of Namaans 0 Road. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Back-to-Back car fires. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
Citizens’ Hose Compan y E44-2, on the scene of a workin L44, with Q45 working together g townho - Submitted by CHC, pho use fire in Smyrna. to by Jerry Hull
pany South Bowers Fire Com On January 4, 2015, the tual aid came from Station 42, Mu . responded to a house fire d by crews from 52, 55, and 54. stan 49, 50, Medic 101 and ers Fire Company Submitted by South Bow
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 47
Delaware Fire Service in Action 2015, On November 24, Volunteer Hose Company was dispatched to an MVC ed. with subjects trapp - Submitted by Tim Murray, y photo by Amy Murra
Clayton MVC. - DFSN photo courtesy Mike Carroll and Gene Shaner; Sta. 45
On January 5, 2016, the station was dispatched for the ladder and engine to assist KCMD Station 2 Millington on a residental structure fire. - DFSN photo by Mike Carroll
On January 4, 201 6, Aetna was dispa tch to the intersection of South College Av ed enue and Old Baltimore Pike for n MVC. - DFSN photo by Da ve Wilson
On November 10, 2015, VHC Stations 1 and 27 responded to a MVC involving a school bus on Brickmill Road. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
Page 48, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service in Action
VHC responded to a car-into-building - Submitted by Tim . Murray, photo by Am y Murray
any and Ladder Comp 5, Aetna Hose, Hook t Hill On December 24, 201 with two minor injuries on Chestnu C n responded to an MV Avenue. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilso Road and Library
On Christmas Eve 2015, just prior to the company’s Christmas party, the station, along with Ambulance 64, were dispatched to an MVC at Sunnyside and HillYard Roads. –DFSN photo courtesy Mike Carroll (Sta. 45,), Joe Jones (Sta. 45)
Early on December 19, 201 New Castle County Par 5, the Good Will Fire Company and amedi entrapment at Frenchtow cs were alerted to an MVC with n Road and - Submitted by David Ma Quigley Boulevard. jewski, Jr.
e Company was 5, the Frederica Fir On December 12, 201 icle rollover with ejection. alerted for a veh Vazquez - Submitted by Alex
911 alerted Leipsic 2015, Kent County On November 10, eek Fire Company Cr tle Lit h wit ) along a subject reported Fire Company (53 h wit ive Dr Bayside (54) for an MVA on Submitted by Joey Marker trapped. -
On October 25, 2015, Minquadale Station 22 was dispatched to an MVC at the intersection of Route 13 and Memorial Drive. - Submitted by Christine Bennett
February 2016
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 49
A True Christmas Story
As fire engine after fire engine traveled down Otts Chapel Road with lights flashing, members of the Scarbro family stood on the porch of the Lighthouse Baptist Church parish house and watched in amazement. They watched as Santa Claus and Rudolph disembarked from one of the fire engines and came to talk to the kids. They looked on as dozens of firefighters formed a modern-day bucket brigade of sorts, lining up and passing present after present into the Scarbros’ borrowed home. “This is so overwhelming; words can’t describe it,” Chris Scarbro, 41, said, noting the toys were a surprise to his kids, who were told simply that the fire department was coming to drop off clothes. “This is a community outreach like no other. This is what Christmas is about.” The Christmas Eve procession was the culmination of an outpouring of support for the Scarbros, whose house burned down just four days before Christmas. The house, in the Yorkshire neighborhood, caught fire on the morning of December 21, 2015. Chris Scarbro was the only one home and was able to escape with the family dog, though he was taken to Christiana Hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Once he escaped, his thoughts turned to the family photos he lost and then to the Christmas presents that he and his wife, Amy, had just finished wrapping for their children, ages six, nine, 12, 15 and 20. “I could care less for me and my wife; we’ll make do always,” he said. “But when you have five little ones, the best thing in the world is to see their faces big and bright on Christmas morning when they open presents. We weren’t going to be able to do that. My wife had gotten the presents and we’d just wrapped them and they went up in flames.” With the house still smoldering, firefighters from Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder Company began planning ways to ensure the Scarbros still had a good Christmas. Within hours of the fire, they put out a call for donations, offering up Station 7 on Thorn Lane as a drop-off point. The tremendous response surprised even Aetna Chief Drew Bowerson, who said the amount of toys, clothing and other items dropped off overwhelmed the firehouse. Two days in, Aetna asked people to limit their donations to gift cards. “The way this donation turned out for this family is unbelievable,” Bowerson said. “The community outreach was just phenomenal. It brings a Christmas spirit and makes sure this family had a Christmas.” On Christmas Eve, firefighters met at the station to wrap the gifts and then delivered them to the family along with representatives from the Newark Police Department, Mill Creek Fire Company and Christiana Fire Company. Speaking on behalf of his family, Chris Scarbro stood on the porch and addressed the 40 firefighters and their family members who were
gathered on the lawn. “All my life, I’ve been one that liked to give and wanted to put a smile on other people’s faces,” he said. “This is overwhelming to be the one on the receiving end. But sometimes you’ve got to swallow that and say thank you.” In addition, the outreach went beyond the donation drive organized by Aetna. Immediately after the fire, the Homewood Suites Hotel on South College Avenue donated rooms so the family would have a place to stay. For a longer-term solution, Lighthouse Baptist Church offered up its parish house for two months. Scarbro noted that his family does not attend church at Lighthouse and credited friend Butch Singleton with helping arrange the housing. “As soon as he saw what happened, he contacted his pastor and found out this was available for a month or two. It’s a safe haven for my family, especially the week of Christmas.” The day after the fire, police in Cecil County, Maryland, picked up the Scarbro children from Tri-State Christian Academy in Elkton and took them on a surprise shopping trip to Walmart, where each child went around with an officer and was able to pick out toys and other items. Other officers wrapped the gifts as the family was treated to lunch at a nearby Chick-fil-A. The officers had already conducted their annual Shop with a Cop event, but decided to organize a special event for the Scarbros after hearing about the fire. “In a matter of 16 hours, it all came together,” said Julianna Logan, a crime data analyst for the Cecil County Sheriff’s Office. “It was all like a boom, boom, boom, let’s get it done kind of a day.” Walmart donated a Christmas tree to the Scarbro family and gave them other funding, she added. Online, 400 people combined to donate more than $20,000 through the crowdsourcing website GoFundMe, and Tri-State Christian Academy also accepted donations for the family through its website. In addition to the organized efforts, several individuals offered help, such as a man who stopped by to help wrap gifts, Scarbro said. As he watched the fire department carry in the last of the gifts, Scarbro was happy to know that his kids would still have a Christmas morning to look forward to. “It’s not going to be exactly the same because we’re not in our home, but this is going to be the closest we can come to making it feel like that,” he said. “Christmas will probably be, materialistically speaking, bigger and better than they would ever imagine.” - DFSN photos by Dave Wilson
Page 50, Delaware Fire Service News
February 2016
Fire Marshal’s Report One Dead in Wilmington Blaze
On December 16, 2015 around 0130 the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown responded to the unit block of East Lake Street for a report of a house on fire. Firefighters found flames shooting from the unoccupied house as they arrived on scene. Several other fire companies were called to assist with fire suppression. During the initial investigation on East Lake Street, deputy fire marshals learned that there were two other fires in the unit block of Anderson Street that were also determined to be intentionally started. All three arsons occurred in the early morning hours of December 16, 2015. The investigation concluded that he intentionally ignited fires to two occupied residences on Anderson Street, and one unoccupied residence Wood Stove Malfunction in Hartly on Lake Street. He is charged with two counts of Arson 1st degree, one B. Scott Bullock count of Arson 2nd degree and five counts of Reckless Endangering 1st Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal degree. Deputy fire marshals were assisted by the Middletown Police The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office has determined a house fire Department during the investigation. that occurred on January 11, 2016 in Hartly in Kent County was accidental in nature. The fire was reported shortly before 2100 in the 2900 Two Escape block of Hartly Road. The Hartly Vol Fire Company responded to the call and arrived with smoke coming from the dwelling. Assistance was Ardentown Fire requested from the Marydel and Cheswold Fire Companies. The fire Michael G. Chionchio was placed under control with no injuries reported. Assistant State Fire Marshal Deputy State Fire Marshals were called to investigate the fire and The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has ruled that a house determined the fire was caused by a malfunction in an operating wood fire in Ardentown on January 4, 2016, was accidental. The blaze, reportstove chimney. The Red Cross of Delmarva is assisting the occupants, ed shortly after 1900, occurred in the 1500 block of Valley Road near with damages estimated at $7500. Harvey Road. The Claymont Fire Company arrived on the scene with smoke pouring from the dwelling. Two people escaped from the home Middletown Man without injury. Deputy fire marshals were called to the scene to conduct the investiFaces Multiple Arson Charges gation. The fire originated inside the basement due to an electrical malRobert L. Fox function in the electrical service panel for the house. The fire erupted Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has charged a 28-year old inside the basement and started to travel into the first floor as firefightMiddletown man in connection with three arsons in the Town of ers confronted the flames and brought the fire under control. Heavy fire Middletown. damage is estimated at $50,000. There were no reported injuries. Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a fire that occurred on January 19, 2016 in Wilmington, which heavily damaged a home. One person was found deceased inside the burning home. The blaze, reported shortly before 2300, occurred in the 2600 block of Abington Road in the Dartmouth Woods development off of Naamans Road. The Talleyville Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames shooting from the two story dwelling. Firefighters found one person deceased inside the home after the fire was extinguished. Fire damage is estimated at $200,000. There were no other reported injuries.