VOLUME 20, NO. 3
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
JUNE 2017
See story on page 15.
23rd Annual Hob Ryan Dinner See pages 42 and 43
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... Nothing... Then a 2-Alarmer On April 17, 2017, Upper Chichester police reported fire from the rear of a church. See story page 10
Millsboro Assists Frankford
Millsboro Fire Company assisted Station 76 Frankford at a fire that destroyed the Bunting and Bertrand Poultry Equipment warehouse.
See story page 11
2-Alarm Commercial Fire in Wilmingtom On March 27, 2017, Wilmington City firefighters on the C-Platoon were dispatched to North Market Street for a commercial fire alarm. See story page 13
Claymont’s Brad Scott Needs Your Help We ask everyone to go to www.youcaring.com/bradscottwifeandthreegirls808653 and help Brad and family through some rough times. See story page 18
1 Dead in Wilmington Water Rescue Wilmington Fire Department Marine units were dispatched to the Delaware River for report of two subjects in the water. See story page 20
Obituaries: Howard Alan Schweitzer Howard Alan Schweitzer, 62, of Laurel, Delaware, passed away on April 20, 2017, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. See story page 37
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 bi-monthly 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, Christine Bennett, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Sean Byron, Dave Carpenter, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Michele Ehart, Mary Eisenbrey, Mark Felicetti, Dave Ferguson, Robert Fox, Jon Gallo, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Doug Hudson, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Bill Ireland, Jr., Terry Jester, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Chris Lucas, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joseph Mriss, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Dwayne Pearson, Phil Pennington Sr., Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, John Randolph, James Read, Matthew Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Kevin Sipple, Chuck Snyder, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Jack Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 x111 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 631-776-0500 x111 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 1st Choice Safety Equipment ..... 7
Firehouse Kitchen ............... 40
AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 37 FRI I Chiefs ......................... 31 Amer. Military Univ ............. 17 King Photography ................ 15 ASI ....................................... 23
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4
Camp Fury ........................... 21
Pioneers of the DFS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 38
Camp Junior ........................ 21
Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 52
DPC ............................. 2, 25, 56
Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 53
Emergency Responder Reply System ....................... 27
Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 53
ESI ....................................... 31
Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 54
Laurel Fire Department ...... 44
Atlantic Emergency Solutions PL Custom ............................ 11 ................... 5, 19, 28, 29, 33, 55 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 11 Breaking News Network ...... 54 Roll-N-Rack ......................... 13
FireFlow .............................. 35 Firehouse Expo ................... 45
Rush Uniforms .................... 15 Spicer Mullikin .................... 41 Sunset Printing .................... 39 Sutphen .................................. 9 Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund ............... 45 Ultra Bright Lightz .............. 11
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
HOSE CONNECTIONS
Allegations of Bullying in the Fire Service is Troubling
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Don’t Be Complacent It is 0300 and your tones go off informing you of an automatic alarm at a residence. There are a lot of thoughts that should be going through your head as you are responding to the call. Automatic alarm, not a commercial establishment, no additional calls, etc. Your dispatcher informs the officer or chief he has no additional information. Your sleepy mind might be thinking about getting the call over with and getting back to bed. Damn automatic alarms! You arrive on scene at a typical house in a residential development. No cars in the driveway, and no sign of anyone in the home. You knock on the door, ring the door bell, perform a 360 and confirm no one is home. You find a window that isn’t locked, make entry into the home and there is no sign of danger. Or is there? The front door is opened and a few guys search the house, finding a smoke alarm head flashing. There is no apparent reason for the activation. Hey, you have been at this type of call many times. It is probably a defective alarm head that was set off by any number of reasons. By now, a neighbor pops in and asks, “Anything wrong?” You go through your usual questions and find out the house was just sold and the new owner stopped by to check the house and cleaned up. You are ready to go home, when one of your crew says he smells something in the basement. Making a long story short, it turned out the homeowner set off several
insecticide “bombs” in the basement to take care of a bug problem. Fortunately, no one was hurt at this call. But this call makes you think of everything you did right, what you did wrong and what could have happened that might have had disastrous results. All of us, at times, can be accused of complacency. We assume that every call is going to be like the past calls we have had, especially with automatic alarms. Carbon monoxide, chemicals, gas leaks that show no sign of odor as you are walking around a structure, are all possibilities that we must be aware of when we enter a building. I can tell you to wear your SCBA and facepiece all of the time. But let’s face it, we don’t always do what we know is the safe thing to do. This insecticide call actually happened. No one was hurt, but the call made me think that possibly we should encourage homeowners to place signs on their home when they are using total-release foggers or bug bombs. Encourage your community at Fire Safety Day to read labels on dangerous products and not to be complacent of the hazards of using these products. Use every call as a learning tool to stay safe for future calls. It is springtime, the time of the year that homeowners use pesticides. Keep this in mind when you respond to calls for a “strange odor.” Dennis
by Steve Austin Could there a connection between the increase in firefighter suicide and bullying? If so, that would be a very sad turn of events for a culture that prides itself for taking care of others and protecting our own. I, personally, have never heard of bullying in the Delaware Fire Service. Unfortunately, workplace bullying is not new and is drawing attention in the private sector to the point that OSHA is studying the problem. The US Department of Labor reports that almost 2 million workers in the United States are a victim and 21 percent have witnessed it. I’m not sure what these numbers actually represent and some of the “violence” may not actually be related to bullying, but it is troubling. Following a series of issues that included a firefighter suicide in Fairfax County, leadership there is taking a hard look at allegations of bullying. An anonymous blog that has a history of being extremely demeaning to volunteers and women has not been helpful. Attacks like this seem foreign to those of us who pride ourselves in upholding the traditions of the brother and sisterhood of the fire service. I’m from the generation that joined the service before any diversity existed. There were no women in the ranks and few members from other ethnic groups or nationalities. Notwithstanding one’s personal opinion about inclusion or the lack thereof, there would be no volunteer fire service in Delaware without the diverse membership we have today. Our fire companies represent the communities we serve. That’s a good thing. We need all the help we can get.
When I read, or hear first-hand, about firefighter lives ruined or worst yet snuffed out by suicide. I question if a more caring, compassionate environment in the fire house might have prevented tragedy? In many cases, we will never know. The purpose of the column is not to suggest that bullying exists here. What I am suggesting is that aggressive behavior toward other members should never be tolerated. Likewise, all of us should be cognizant that our fellow members could be experiencing significant stress from many sources and might need intervention. That help is in place in several forms for every member today in Delaware. Behavioral health and bullying issues are under study by the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the National Volunteer Fire Council and the National Fallen Firefighters Everyone Goes Home Program and others. Clearly people in the know are concerned and you should be also. If you believe in the sacred brotherhood of the fire service, then the well-being of fellow members must be a primary concern. Respecting brothers and sisters is our highest calling.
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Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office Who is Going? At the December Executive Meeting a motion was made and passed for the DVFA to pay for busses for any Delaware firefighter or auxiliary member to attend the NFFF Memorial Service (see below). Registration forms were sent to each company. So far, only five companies have responded. If you are going we need to know so we can order the busses! National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, October 8, 2017: A grateful nation honors its fallen fire service heroes at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park located on the campus of the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. At the heart of the park, the National Fallen Firefighters Monument is a striking stone mon-
ument encircled by plaques listing the names of all members of the fire service who have died in the line-of-duty since 1981. If you have never attended the Memorial Service, this year is the year. We honor four Delaware firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the profession they so humbly served. Let us come together and honor Tim McClanahan, Christopher Leech, Jerry Fickes and Ardy Hope. The Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association is supplying the busses for any Delaware firefighter or auxiliary member. Let’s show America that Delaware cares. Please check the sign-up sheets in your fire station. This will be a class uniformed event if you have one.
Conference 2017: Conference 2017 is only four months away. Most of the forms are on the DVFA Website. Please fill them out and return them by August 8, 2017. Apparatus and Equipment Inventory: An inventory of all apparatus is supposed to go to the insurance commissioner’s office each year. Please go to the DVFA website, download your form, fill it out and send it in. The DVFA office is available to help with any of your needs. Let us know how we can help! Warren Jones Executive Manager 302-535-4566 wjones@dvfassn.com
DVFA President by Ted Walius, President, DVFA To all firefighters, EMTs, ladies auxiliary, fire police and members of all the fire companies, thank you for your service to the fire service of Delaware. I attended the seven states Presidents Council Meeting at the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Meeting held at Indian River Fire Company on April 1. Our attorney, Bill Preston, made a presentation to the group on a number of fire service topics. We developed some good information from the other states. I want to thank everyone who attended the Congressional Fire Service Institute’s National Fire Services Symposium and dinner. It was a good turn out from Delaware. The DVFA pres-
idents along with Steve Austin and the executive manager went to Capitol Hill on Wednesday afternoon to meet with Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester and her staff. We covered the importance of the volunteer fire service in Delaware and discussed some important federal issues. The next morning, we again traveled to Capitol Hill. This time we met with Senator Tom Carper over in the Capitol. We also met with his staff and we talked about the IRS issue going on in Delaware and the main federal issues of funding for SAFER, AFG and the Fire Administration. After the dinner on Thursday night, we presented CFSI our check for the Delaware members who attended and we also received $1000 from Provident Insurance for our scholarship program. I also had the pleasure to attend FDIC where I attended the opening ceremonies, some very interesting and informative semi-
nars, and kept abreast of the new products for fire and EMS. It was nice to see so many Delaware firefighters attend the Provident reception on Friday night. We want to thank Provident for doing the reception every year. These last two months were also sad ones. We lost a number of great members of the Delaware Fire Service including past Farmington Chief Ronnie Vincent, Mill Creek Deputy Chief Krissy Kreutzer, our beloved Conference Secretary Virginia Yeager and, most recently, Good Will’s Pappy Hahn. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the horrific murder of DSP Trooper Cpl. Steven Ballard. This has been a truly sad year for Delaware. It has been a pleasure for me to serve as your president. I look forward to meeting and talking with you during the balance of my term. Thank you for your invitation to your events and all the great work you do in protecting your communities.
In Memory of Lois Pearson We were saddened to hear of the passing of LADVFA President Lois Pearson on November 16, 2016. Please keep the Pearson family, the LADVFA, and the Greenwood Fire Company family in your thoughts and prayers.
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 7
Thanks to the DVFA for its Continued Support of CFSI The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) extends its thanks and appreciation to the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association (DVFA) for its tremendous support of the 29th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner Program. On April 5 and 6, 2017, over 1500 state and national leaders of the fire and emergency services gathered together in Washington, DC, for this annual program that provides opportunities for fire service leaders to engage members of Congress and their peers in discussions about federal legislation and programs impacting our nation’s first responders. The theme of the program was “Forging New Relationships.” Few organizations understand the importance of forging relationships with their government leaders as DVFA. For two days, fire service leaders attended seminars and met with their members of Congress. The salient issue of many discussions was the reauthorization of the Assistance to Firefighters, and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant programs. Senator John McCain, a co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, introduced reauthorization legislation on April 5. His three fellow co-chairs in the Senate — Senators Tom Carper (DE), Susan Collins (ME) and Jon Tester (MT) — signed-on as original co-sponsors. Passage of the legislation is imperative to ensure that the federal government continues providing support to the fire service through these two grant programs.
On the evening of April 6, everyone gathered together in the ballroom of the historic Washington Hilton for the National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner. Three co-Chairs of the Fire Caucus — Senators Carper and Collins and Congressman Bill Pascrell (NJ-09) — were the featured speakers, delivering important messages to audience about engaging in the legislative process. The program also featured four award presentations. Jim Dalton, a 50-year veteran of the fire service and former government affairs director of the National Fire Sprinkler Association, was the recipient of the CFSI/Motorola Solutions Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. The International Fire Service Training Association received the CFSI/NFFF Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. The CFSI/Masimo Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Award recognized the Orange County (FL) Fire Rescue Department and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. And the final award presentation, the CFSI/IFSTA Dr. Anne W. Phillips Award for Leadership in Fire Safety recognized Marsha Giesler of the Downers Grove (IL) Fire Department. Lou Amabili, who served with Dr. Phillips on the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control, once again participated in the award presentation. “CFSI takes great pride in hosting the annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner Program,” said CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb. “We owe a huge
debt of gratitude to the members of the Delaware volunteer fire service for their continued support of this program. We face a challenging year in Washington, with a new administration and so many new members of Congress. DVFA’s support will enable the CFSI staff to further its mission of educating members of Congress about the fire and emergency services.” In his closing remarks at the dinner, Webb stressed the need to recruit the next generation of fire service leaders to attend the program. “Eventually, the likes of Steve Austin, Tony O’Neill, Jim Cubbage, Sara Yerkes, Red Flegal, Mike Rush and Bill Kehoe will see their streak of attending every dinner program come to an end — but God willing, not for a long time. For this organization to continue in its mission, we need to find the next generation of leaders and get them involved. Together, let’s find a way to make this happen.” CFSI looks forward to hosting the 30th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner Program on April 1718, 2018. The good Lord willing, I hope all our friends and supporters from Delaware — including the future leaders we need to start grooming — will be able to join us.
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Indian River Assists Rehoboth Beach
On February 26, 2017, Rehoboth Beach was alerted for an electrical fire on East Atlantic Circle. Command arrived and advised of heavy smoke showing from the eaves of a two-story apartment building, and requested the box be filled, bringing mutual aid from Lewes Indian River and Sussex County EMS. Fire was found in the ceiling area and quickly knocked down. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
Oak Hill House Fire On April 5, 2017, the Elsmere Fire Company and surrounding companies were dispatched to Kenwood Road in Oak Hill for a house fire. Rescue/Engine 166 and Hockessin Fire Chief Quint Sianni, arrived and reported a two-story split level with fire showing from the second floor. The crew of 166 deployed a twoinch handline and made entry through the front door. Additional crews on scene assisted with fire suppression, searches and laddering. The fire was extinguished within 25 minutes and contained to the second-floor bedroom and hallway area, with some extension into the attic. No injuries were reported, and the family dog was rescued. Crews from Elsmere were assisted by Cranston Heights, Five Points, Minquas of Newport, Belvedere, Hockessin, Mill Creek, and Wilmington Ladder Co 2. - DFSN photo by Jeff Morrison, Five Points FC; Submitted by Frank Maule
Bryn-Zion Road Comm’l Fire Cheswold Fire Company assisted by Clayton, Smyrna, Hartly and Kent County Paramedics responded to a non-residential fire on Bryn-Zion Road recently. - Submitted by Gene Shaner, photo by Doug Curran
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 9
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Dover Structure Fire On April 19, 2017, the Dover Fire Department responded to a structure fire on North New Street. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Smyrna House Fire On April 6, 2017, with a severe thunderstorm going through the area, Citizens’ Hose Company Station 44, Ladder and Engine 45, Ambulance 64 and KM6 were dispatched for the residential fire on Foxtrail Road in the Hickory Hollow development in Smyrna. Quint 45 with Deputy Chief Alex Carrow responded, followed by Engine 45-3 and Captain John Pridemore. Ambulance 64 arrived to fire showing on the Delta side of the residence. Quint 45 and Engine 44-2 secured a water supply and placed two handlines in service. Interior crews found heavy smoke conditions in the basement area, and located and extinguished a fire there. The remaining crews performed searches and assisted with overhaul. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office investigated. Captain Easley Peirson. Jr., had the command. Units responding. Engines 442, 44-3, 45-3, Ladder 44, Quint 45, Rescue 45, B-64, KM6, FM19 (Billings), SPD. - Photo courtesy Mike Carroll
Nothing … Then a 2-Alarmer On April 17, 2017, E135 was directed to Naamans Road for wires down. With nothing found, the engine was returned and backing into the station when the box alarm was struck for the 3000 block of Chichester Avenue for a commercial structure fire. Upper Chichester police reported fire from the rear of a church. Claymont L13 responded staffed with four for the RIT assignment. While responding, command changed their assignment to the firefight. The ladder took primary positioning in front of the building and split crews. Driver and officer went to the roof to open up as remaining manpower went interior to assist with fire attack. This fire went two alarms before being brought under control. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
Millsboro Assists Frankford
On May 15, 2017, the Millsboro Fire Company assisted Station 76 Frankford at a fire that destroyed the Bunting and Bertrand Poultry Equipment warehouse. - DFSN photos by Larry Gum and Chris Uibel
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
VHC Handles Structure Fire On March 22, 2017, Volunteer Hose Company responded to a non-residential structure fire. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Aetna Handles House Fire, Saves Cats Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company of Newark responded to a house fire on the 900 block of Devon Drive in the West Newark community of Devon Place. Firefighters found a fire in the basement of a two-story, single-family dwelling. While the fire was contained to the basement, the home sustained heat and smoke damage throughout. While firefighters were operating in the basement, other firefighters rescued two cats. The cats were given oxygen through special animal oxygen masks, which had been donated by a Newark-based web company, Hosting.com, in 2015, and have been used by the fire department several times since. Thirty firefighters and EMTs from Newark, Christiana and Mill Creek had the fire under control in 20 minutes. - Submitted by John H. Farrell IV, photo by Mike Dao
Ladder Assists Elsmere Just before midnight on February 28, 2017, Ladder 17 was alerted to assist Elsmere and other area fire companies on a multi-residential building fire on the 1300 block of Maple Avenue in the Elsmere Park Apartment complex. Engine 16-5 arrived to fire showing from the A side. Ladder 17 arrived and the crew of seven split, half to the interior for the search and the other half to ladder the exterior windows and check the C side. Engine 17 arrived and was assigned the search of the B exposure. While units were on the scene here, Squad 12 and L12 (Christiana), as well as E19 and E 17 from a second multi-residential structure fire in the 200 block of Elsmere. Crews searched that structure for a reported odor of N. Maryland Avenue was sounded in the Five Points locale, being smoke, but soon cleared without finding anything. - Photo by The News Journal and Mike Stears; handled by cover up companies 25-6 (Talleyville), L18 (Goodwill) Submitted by Chuck Hayes and RE28 (Wilmington Manor), assisted by Wilmington E1 and L2,
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
On March 27, 2017, Wilmington City firefighters on the C-Platoon were dispatched to North Market Street for a commercial fire alarm. Units arrived on scene to find heavy smoke from a three-story commercial structure. Units began an aggressive attack, but due to worsening conditions and fire load, crews were removed and defensive operations were started. A second alarm was added by Fire Chief Michael Donohue, bringing the balance of the Wilmington crews, and mutual aid from Five Points, Elsmere and Talleyville. The building sustained heavy fire and smoke damage, as did adjoining properties. The Wilmington Fire Marshal's Office was investigating. The Red Cross was notified to assist five adults with housing affected by the fire. - Submitted by James R Jobes, photos by John Randolph and Chuck Hayes
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Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Clayton Responds to Garage Fire
On April 12, 2017, Kent Center dispatched Clayton Fire Company Station 45, Ladder, Engine and Rescue 44, Engine 51, Ambulance 64 and KM6 for a garage fire on Gravelly Run Branch Road in the Providence Crossing Development. Command 45 with Captain John Pridemore arrived, followed by Engine 45-3 and Deputy Chief Alex Carrow. Crews found smoke showing with an active fire in the garage. Ladder 44 with Captain Eric Neeld laddered the structure. Engine 44 with Assistant Chief Dave Neeld, and Quint 45 with six and Firefighter Joe Jones arrived and assisted with laddering, and began primary searches. Engine 45-4 with six and Assistant Chief Ray Johnson arrived, secured the water supply to 45-3 and stretched a second line. Rescue 45 with six and Lt. Jonathan Burnett, and Rescue 44 with Lt. Robbie Daniels arrived together with Rescue 45 and handled the secondary searches while Rescue 44 checked the basement. Engine 51-3 with Assistant Chief Ray Morris arrived and established RIT. The fire was quickly contained and all searches were negative. - DFSN photo by Mike Carroll
2 Transported from Rigdon Rd. Blaze On April 18, 2017, the Elsmere Fire Company along with area mutual aid units were dispatched to Rigdon Road in the Vilone Village community for a residential structure fire. Elsmere units arrived to a two-story, single-family structure with fire showing from the second floor, delta side. Units deployed two, two-inch handlines to the second floor, where they were met with heavy fire conditions. The fire was extinguished and placed under control in about 30 minutes. Two residents were transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation. Elsmere was assisted by units from Cranston Heights, Five Points, Minquas of Newport, Hockessin, Mill Creek and Talleyville, as well as EMS assets from NCCEMS and Minqudale. - Submitted by Frank Maule, photo by Sharon Stockman Giles
Catalpa Ave. House Fire On March 28, 2017, the Five Points Fire Company, along with multiple area companies, were alerted to a residential structure fire on Catalpa Avenue in Hayden Park. Engine-17 arrived and secured a supply line on the way in. E-17’s Chief Mike Testa, reported smoke showing from the rear of the 1-1/2 story residential house. E-17’s crew pulled a line to a small bedroom fire. The fire was quickly extinguished. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Harrington Snuffs Hardee’s Fire On May 2, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company was alerted for a building fire at the Hardees on Milford-Harrington Highway. Deputy Chief Kenny Brode arrived to smoke showing from the roof and an active fire in the kitchen. He requested an engine from Houston Fire Company (Station 52) to respond. Command ordered 50-4 (Captain Jason Brode) to drop a five-inch supply line and place 1-3/4 CAFS line in service on the Charlie side of the building. Tower 50 (pastChief Ralph Tucker) was ordered to set up on the Alpha side and ladder the roof. Tower 50’s crew reported the fire was contained to the kitchen area. Units 50-5, 52-5 and 52-2 staged, and their manpower assisted interior crews. The fire was placed under control in approximately 15 minutes and units remained on scene for overhaul. Also responding were the fire police and Harrington Police Department. - Submitted by Earl Brode
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15
Cover Story
Training & Controlled Burning On April 8, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company hosted a day-long training and controlled burn session. Harrington firefighters were joined by several area fire companies for the burn. Firefighters conducted live burn evolutions and in the afternoon a control burn of the structure. The officers and members of the Harrington Fire Company would like to thank all the instructors who helped to make this a very successful training day and would also like to thank the property owners who allowed the fire company to use the building for training. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
3 Vehicle MVC with Entrapment
On April 2, 2017, the Frederica Volunteer Fire Company, along with the Bowers Fire Company, responded to a car-versus-tractor-trailer MVC with entrapment in the area of Webbs Market on Route 1. Assistant Chief A. Vazquez arrived to find two cars, which had struck a tractor-trailer broadside with one confirmed entrapment. Crews extricated one patient who was transported to Christiana via DSP Trooper 2, with another patient transported in Ambulance 40 to Milford. - Submitted by Alex Vazquez
6 Injured, 1 Fatal at Frazer Rd. MVC On May 18, 2017, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder responded to an MVC with entrapment on Frazer Road. Crews found six people injured and one fatality. Trooper 4 from Delaware State Police was used for transport. - Submitted by Dave Wilson
Harrington MVC Car vs. School Bus
On May 5, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company, along with Kent County EMS, were dispatched to a report of an MVC involving a school bus at the intersection of South DuPont Highway and Hopkins Cemetery Road. While responding, firefighters were advised that there were possible subjects trapped in the vehicle and the vehicle was on fire. Firefighters arrived and reported that an SUV had hit the rear of the school bus and confirmed no subjects were trapped, but there was a small fire in the engine compartment of the SUV. Firefighters also confirmed the bus was empty of students. The driver of the SUV sustained serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The driver of the bus sustained minor injuries and was also transported. The officer in charge was Fire Chief Robbie Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode
MVC Overturn On May 6, 2015, the Five Points Fire Company was alerted for an MVC with a rollover on South Maryland Avenue at Winston Avenue. Squad 17 arrived to find a vehicle on its side after striking a utility pole. The driver had self-extricated and was ambulatory. Also responding were Elsmere and Cranston Heights Rescues. Chief 178 (Testa) held the scene to Squad 17 and Talleyville’s ambulance. Units awaited the arrival of Delmarva Power then cleared the scene. The driver was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
June 2017
3 Injured in MVC
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
On May 3, 2017, Roxana (Station 90) was alerted for a two-vehicle MVC on West Line Road near the intersection with Lighthouse Road. Selbyville (Station 88) was also alerted, as was Bishopville (MD; Station 900), and ALS paramedics from SCEMS. First units discovered one victim trapped in a vehicle; a seriously injured victim outside a vehicle being attended to by a bystander; and another victim in the second vehicle. Units from Rescue 90 and Selbyville extricated the entrapped victim. Helicopters were requested but were unavailable. Three people were transported to various hospitals by ground ambulances. Units on the scene included Ambulance 90, Rescue 90, 90-1, two ambulances and a truck from Selbyville, an ambulance from Bishopville, as well as fire police from Roxana, Bethany Beach and Selbyville. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Fatality in Helicopter Crash On May 25, 2017, the New Castle County 911 received calls reporting an aircraft was down in the industrial park near the New Castle County Airport. Box 1840 was sounded bring Engine 12, Rescue Engine 12 and Ladder 12. Companies arrived to find a helicopter had crashed and was on fire. The only person on the helicopter did not survive. Companies worked to extinguish the fire and assisted with the investigation into the crash. - Submitted by Christiana Fire Company
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Claymont’s Scott Needs Your Help For 89 years, the members of Claymont Fire Company have been serving the public. For the last 16 of those years, Firefighter Brad Scott has been volunteering his time, giving up time away from his wife and family to assist those in their time of need. Now our brother needs YOUR help. We ask everyone to go to www.youcaring.com/bradscottwifeandthreegirls-808653 and help Brad and family as they push through some rough times. Help us get the word out! Brad has always been there for strangers in their time of need, won’t YOU answer the call to help him and his family? The officers and members of Claymont Fire Company thank you in advance for your help! Recently, our brother Brad Scott better known as ‘Boobah’ was diagnosed with colon/rectal cancer. Brad is currently assigned as the engine driver for Station 7-C shift. Brad’s wife Charlene and his three daughters Alyssa, Brennah and Laini have been right by his side in the fight. Please see the following from his wife Charlene: “When Brad turned 40 he decided that he needed to make some lifestyle changes; eat healthier, stop smoking, exercise, and to make the most out of every day. Fast forward six months and he’s smoke free! But, Brad started to have some stomach issues. After seeing his doctor a CAT scan was ordered. Within an hour of the scan our lives took a dramatic and unexpected turn. After multiple tests, biopsies, and specialists Brad was diagnosed with stage 4 colon rectal cancer with METS to his liver and lungs. At that moment our entire world stopped. We were speechless and dumbfounded. Things like this don’t happen to an otherwise healthy 40-year
old. Trying to explain to our children that their father had cancer was the single most difficult thing we’ve ever done in our lives. Over the past three weeks we have experienced every emotion that you can have while trying to keep things as normal as possible for our children. Brad is an honest person and wanted honest answers from his doctor. When the doctor explained the expected prognosis for his type of cancer our breath was taken away and fear crept back in. With the help of friends, we were able to seek a second opinion from a doctor and an appointment with the National Institute of Health in Bethesda Maryland. Knowing what we know now, Brad is not a statistic, a piece of medical records, and he’s not a number; he’s a fighter. All of the doctors agreed that the treatment presented to us is the best course of action for him. Bring on the chemotherapy! Positivity, prayers, optimism, and the support of family and great friends help to make this new “normal” for our family a little more bearable. We truly appreciate all of the support that we have received. At a time like this it is unbelievable how everyone has rallied to make sure that Brad, me and the kids are okay. We both couldn’t be more thankful for the men and women with whom he works. They are continually thinking about two steps ahead of us and supporting Brad in every way possible. One day at a time and a house full of positivity is how we are going to get through this. It is a club that no one ever wants to join. But with faith, family and friends — who are now family — we will get through this.” - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Rehoboth Beach Responds to MVC On May 28, 2017, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a single-car MVC on Camp Arrow Head Road in the area of Yoshino Drive. Upon arrival the car was found off the road in the northbound lane. One female was removed from the vehicle and transported to the hospital by Rehoboth Fire Company EMTs and Sussex EMS. - Submitted by Warren Jones
MVC with Entrapment On March 25, 2017, Volunteer Hose Company responded to an MVC with entrapment. Crews arrived to find a pickup into a tree. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
1 Dead in Wilmington Water Rescue
June 2017
On May 13, 2017, Wilmington Fire Department Marine units were dispatched to the Delaware River for report of two subjects in the water. Also responding were Delaware State Police, New Castle County Volunteer Fire Marine Units, DNREC, and the US Coast Guard. One subject was able to get to safety on the New Jersey shore. Units searched for seven hours and dive teams were utilized with negative results. On May 15, 2017, the other boater’s body was recovered. - Submitted by James R. Jobes, photo by John Randolph
HazMat Call The Clayton Fire Company responded as part of a multi-agency hazmat call on April 26, 2017, on Route 896 South just before Old Baltimore Pike. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Hazmat Assist On April 26, 2017, Engine 17 was alerted to respond as part of New Castle County HazMat Decon Team, to an uncontained small spill on S. College Avenue. Upon arrival of DNREC and Aetna units, it was determined that a leaking truck was carrying sodium hydrosulfide. Command, Deputy 14 of Cranston Heights, prepared personnel to safely secure the leak. Personnel from Engine 17, as well as Aetna, Belvedere, Cranston Heights and Elsmere setup up a decon unit and its water supply from Engine 17. Two DNREC HazMat Technicians and three members of the NCC Decon Team donned their equipment. Engine 17’s crew also prepared to go in service as the RIT team. The two HazMat techs entered the hot zone and secured the leak. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Clayton Responds to Fuel Spill On May 18, 2017, the Clayton Fire Company was dispatched for a small fuel spill located at School Lane and Wheatley Pond Road. Command 45 with Captain Pridemore and Engine 45-4 with five aboard and Deputy Chief Alex Carrow arrived and found a fuel spill spread out on both streets that was approximately a quartermile long. Rescue 45 with five, and past-Chief Jeff Lightcap arrived. Command requested a sand truck and the Hazmat Trailer from Wheatley Pond Road while crews cleaned up. Captain Pridemore Station 48 Felton to respond. Crews blocked off the area and stood had School Lane Command. - Submitted by Clayton FC, photo courtesy of by for the HazMat Unit. DNREC was also requested. Fire police past-Chief Jeff Lightcap and Captain John Pridemore and Clayton police closed School Lane from Preston Drive to
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 21
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Passwaters Honored as Lifetime Instructor at DSFS In 1976 Francis Passwaters was an employee of DuPont’s Seaford Plant and an officer with the Blades Volunteer Fire Company. That year he decided to take the Delaware State Fire School’s Methods of Instructors Course. Little could he imagine the impact he would have on firefighters, across not only Delaware, but the United States, as an instructor of many of the programs offered by the Delaware State Fire School. Francis was an instructor of Hazardous Materials, Officer Courses, CPR, Industrial Programs, and other subjects. In December 2016 he announced his retirement. Francis’s knowledge and experience can never be replaced. On May 10, 2017, the staff of the Fire School came together before
Blades’ company meeting to honor Francis as a Lifetime Instructor. Jerry Brennan, Chad Ingram, Billy Baker, Kim O’Malley and Mike Lowe were present for the event along with fellow instructors John Clawson, Russ Amidon and Dave Anderson. All the staff of the Delaware State Fire School, his fellow instructors and former students all wish him the best with his future. Pictured: Jerry Brennan, Billy Baker, Chad Ingram, Mike O’Malley, Francis Passwaters and Mike Lowe. - Submitted by Mike Lowe, DSFS
Redskins’ Crowder Attends Nanticoke Health Services Event On March 18, 2017, the Delaware State Fire School, as well as about 45 other agencies, took part in the annual Nanticoke Health Services Health Fair. The event was held at the Laurel High School. An estimated 600 people attended the event and learned about fire safety, environmental issues, nutrition, wellness and many other health issues. The highlight of the day was an appearance by Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder, who spent over two hours with those in attendance signing autographs. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Spring Basic Skills Class Runs at DSFS
Beginning on March 11, 2017, the Delaware State Fire School held its Spring 2017 Basic Firefighting Skills class. Attendance showed a 25percent increase with 137 students registered for the class. The fourday hands-on class included training on ladders, SCBA, orientation and safety, and hose and tools. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Spring Hazardous Materials Class at DSFS Hazardous Materials training took place beginning March 18, 2017. Seventy students were registered for the class dealing with flammable gases and flammable liquid emergencies. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Confined Space Refresher Training During the week of May 1, 2017, 12 students from Invista Corporation, completed Confined Space Refresher Training at the Delaware State Fire School. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
NCCo Police Recruits Complete Fire Survival Training
The 43rd New Castle County Police Recruit Class attended the Delaware State Fire School on April 19 and 20, 2017, to complete their Fire Survival Training course. Thirty-four students attended the class and all passed their Hazardous Materials Awareness (472) Certification. Students also did evolutions including operating in a hazardous atmosphere (smokehouse), fire extinguishers, ladders and sprinkler systems. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Page 24, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Ambulance 64 at Touch-a-Truck Event
Russell Stinson completes the Safety Obstacle Course.
On April 29, 2017, Ambulance 64 hosted their annual Touch-a- Creek Fire Department let the children use a fire hose, Hartly disTruck Event at Providence School in Clayton. Children had a fun, played equipment, Clayton did a vehicle rescue demonstration and educational day with interactive events and seeing fire and EMS Ambulance 64 gave a tour of their unit. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS apparatus. The Fire School hosted a safety obstacle course, Mill
PBF Energy Visits Fire School On May 3, 2017, 21 students from PBF Energy attended the Delaware State Fire School to complete Flammable Liquids and Gases Training. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Partnering for Fire Safety for Older Adults The Red Cross of Delaware and the Delaware State Fire School are partnering through the National Fire Protection Association’s “Remembering When” program to educate and reduce hazards among older adults across Delaware. Volunteers are being training to assist with home visits to check for fire hazards, install smoke alarms and make older adults aware of fire safety practices that may save their lives. On April 25, 2017, a training session took place at Epworth Church, in Rehoboth Beach to train volunteers. Twelve students were present for the class. (Left): Sharon Jefferson-Hopkins, of Red Cross Delaware, addressed the class. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
NCC*EMS
NCCo Department of Public Safety Awards Ceremony The New Castle County Department of Public Safety hosted an awards ceremony to recognize significant accomplishments and performance during the second half of calendar year 2016.
A Special Citation was issued by the Emergency Medical Services Division to personnel that responded to the multi-alarm fire in Canby Park on the morning of September 24, 2016.
On March 30, 2017, the New Castle County Department of Public Safety hosted an awards ceremony for significant accomplishments and performance which occurred in the second half of calendar year 2016. The event recognized personnel from the Division of Police, Emergency Communications Division and Emergency Medical Services Division as well as other organizations that assisted components of the Department of Public Safety. The ceremony included the issue of a Special Citation by the Emergency Medical Services Division. The Emergency Medical Services Division recognized the following personnel: Assistant Chief Mark P. Allston; Assistant Chief Mark R. Logeman; Lieutenant Michael R. Nichols; Lieutenant Kelli A. Zullo; Sergeant Abigail E. Haas; Sergeant Isaac J. Hankins; Sergeant Peter T. Small; Senior Corporal William J. O’Leary; Senior Corporal Christopher W. Reed; Senior Corporal Robert A. Taylor; Corporal Stacey T. LeCompte; Corporal David J. McKinney; Corporal Thomas J. Murphy, Jr.; Corporal Daniel J. Panaro; Corporal Allen C. Short; Corporal Ashley D. Steil; Corporal Brianne C. Sullivan; Corporal Katherine A. Watts; Paramedic First Class Brian C. Bradford; Paramedic First Class Jessica A. Duncan; Paramedic First Class Matthew H. Heiger; Paramedic First Class Laura E. Hill; Paramedic First Class Leah Hojnicki; Paramedic First Class Scott B. Kier; Paramedic First Class Lisa L. Lock; Paramedic First Class Yvonne T. Russell; Paramedic First Class Michael C. Schusteritsch; Paramedic First; Class Scott E. Sizer; Paramedic First Class Jack W. Warrick; Paramedic David T.
Franck; Paramedic Jessica M. Gurgick; Paramedic Matthew J. L. Patterson; Paramedic Mark A. Plumley; Paramedic Richard H. Ross; Paramedic MaryKate E. Selner; Operations Support Specialist Kenneth R. Phibbs. The Emergency Medical Services Division authorized a Special Citation following events that occurred on September 24, 2016, both at the scene and immediately following the response to a multi-alarm residential structure fire with multiple patients. Personnel from the Emergency Medical Services Division responded to the scene of a residential structure fire on Lakeview Road in Wilmington. Within six minutes of the arrival of the first fire apparatus, a Mayday was declared with a report of firefighters trapped on the first floor. An extensive rescue effort was initiated, and additional emergency medical services resources were assigned to the incident. New Castle County Paramedics operating at the scene treated and transported 11 patients, including four critically injured firefighters. Five New Castle County paramedic units, three supervisors and a member of the senior staff coordinated their activities to provide the highest level of care to each of the patients. However, the on-scene actions are only a part of the story from that morning. “Upon learning of the tragic events that morning, there were several personnel from the Emergency Medical Services Division that responded directly to the Christiana Hospital to provide comfort and support to their fellow employees, and their colleagues from the Wilmington Fire Department and their families,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan. They assem-
bled on their own, providing a personal level of support that comes from the heart as a member of the public safety family. Many refused to leave the hospital until everyone, including the fallen firefighters, had left the premises. “The professionalism of the paramedics that responded to the fire on September 24, 2016, despite the overwhelming and rapidly changing circumstances, along with the personnel that provided support in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy warranted the authorization for issue of a Special Citation,” stated Chief Tan. “The dedication to duty and professionalism demonstrated during this unprecedented incident upheld the finest traditions of the emergency medical service.” The Special Citation issued to each EMS Division employee features a black background with the fire service insignia representing the supreme sacrifice made by members of the Wilmington Fire Department that morning. The citation also includes the inscription 201616943, which is the Wilmington Fire Department alarm number for the incident on Lakeview Road. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
NCCo EMS’ Senior Corporal Paul G. Bazzoli Retires On March 12, 2017, family and co-workers from On May 9, 2017, Paramedic Senior Corporal New Castle County Robin Brown and Paramedic Senior Corporal EMS gathered at Paul Bazzoli received tributes from the New Castle Paramedic Station 3 County Council recognizing their retirement and to recognize the service to the citizens of the county. retirement of Paramedic Senior Corporal Paul Bazzoli. S/Cpl. Bazzoli retired from New Castle County after 25 years of service. S/Cpl. Bazzoli was appointed to the Emergency Medical Services Division in October 1991. He is a graduate of the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program, and was certified as a paramedic in July 1992. He was promoted to Paramedic Corporal in 2004, and to his current rank in August 2015. Bazzoli has held assignments in Medic 5 (Odessa), Medic 6 (Glasgow), Medic 7 (Prices Corner), Medic 8 (City of Wilmington) and
his final assignment at Medic 9 in Newark. He has been a member of the Advanced Life Support Bike Team, and has served as a Field Training Officer and CPR instructor for the EMS Division. He is a life member of the Mill Creek Fire Company and an associate member of the Talleyville Fire Company. “The Emergency Medical Services Division thanks Paul for his years of service with New Castle County. Clearly, he has made a difference to numerous citizens and visitors in the County over the course of his career,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan. S/Cpl. Bazzoli has received several official commendations, including the Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation (four awards), Letter of Commendation (two) and a Proclamation from the City of Newark. He was also recognized as one of the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington’s Paramedics of the Quarter for the fourth quarter of 2014, and later as one of the Paramedics of the Year for 2014. He has received several complimentary letters from the public. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27
NCC*EMS
NCCo EMS Hosts 2nd Delaware Resuscitation Academy
Participants in the 2017 Delaware Resuscitation Academy included representatives from the receiving hospital emergency department staff. New Castle County EMS hosted the 2nd Resuscitation Academy on March 23-24, 2017, in Newark (DE). The purpose of the Resuscitation Academy is to improve survival from cardiac arrest through a fellowship program with other response agencies. Academy participants included EMS supervisors, medical directors, fire/EMS chiefs, EMS personnel of all levels, and hospital staff from across the state of Delaware. The program is designed to increase the participant’s understanding of the interventions important to pre-hospital cardiac arrest survival and learn and become confident in performing
The Resuscitation Academy provides opportunities for practical application of the lessons presented during lectures, including high-performance CPR. Electronic manikins provide feedback and record the performance of each participant.
High Performance CPR. The program includes high-performance CPR evolutions, and is free to participants. “The Resuscitation Academy is one of the factors contributing to the consistently improving out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest survival in New Castle County over the past five years,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. “The positive feedback we have received from the Resuscitation Academy participants is another reason the academy faculty are continuing to offer the program.” - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
NCC*EMS
New Castle County EMS Hosts 5th Annual Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion The annual New Castle County Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion provides an opportunity for patients to meet the individuals that formed their “chain of survival.”
Responders that have been recognized at the annual Survivor’s Reunion have commented the event has reminded them of the reason they became involved as a first responder.
On March 1, 2017, the New Castle County Paramedics hosted the 5th Annual Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion at the Laird Performing Arts Center at The Tatnall School. The event resulted in the issue of 321 citations to civilians, emergency communications, fire service, law enforcement, basic life support EMS personnel and New Castle County Paramedics. This annual event recognizes individuals involved in the response and care of a pre-hospital sudden cardiac arrest patient in New Castle County that resulted in the successful discharge of the patient from the hospital. New Castle County EMS defines “successful discharge” as leaving the hospital with the highest level of brain performance, or a cerebral performance category (CPC) score of 1. The patients are also invited to meet the individuals that comprised their “chain of survival.” The 2017 Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion resulted in the issue of 34 Citizen’s Lifesaving Commendations and eight Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citations to emergency communications personnel, 175 citations to members of the fire service, including fire company ambulance personnel, 26 citations to law enforcement officers, 18 citations to basic life support EMS personnel and 60 citations
The survivors and honorees at the 2017 New Castle County Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion.
to New Castle County Paramedics. “In five years, we have demonstrated continuous annual improvement in out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest cases that resulted in a successful discharge from the hospital,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan during his remarks. “In five years, we have had the privilege of presenting over 1100 commendations to those who contributed to the chain of survival in 148 sudden cardiac arrest cases in New Castle County.” - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Paramedic Senior Corporal Robin K. Brown Retires Paramedic Senior Corporal Robin Brown is joined by fellow employees and members from the emergency response community as she receives her retirement credentials in front of the New Castle County Department of Public Safety Headquarters. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Bratton-Heck Recognized On May 17, 2017, Paramedic Sergeant Beth Bratton-Heck from the New Castle County EMS Division was recognized at the 50th graduation ceremony of the Command and Leadership Academy hosted by the New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police. The graduation luncheon was held in East Windsor (NJ). P/Sgt. Bratton-Heck was also recognized as the honor graduate of the New Castle County cohort, and received the Chief Harry Wilde Award for academic excellence. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 31
NCC*EMS
NCCo EMS Celebrates National EMS Week
The New Castle County Paramedics combined their monthly continuing education program with a barbecue lunch as a part of their recognition of National EMS Week. The program included an orientation to the mission of the 142nd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron of the Delaware Air National Guard, followed by a brief-
ing from the base Crash Fire Rescue (CFR) personnel. The CFR personnel would work with the paramedics during an aircraft incident at the New Castle County Airport. The paramedics visited the flight line, before adjourning for lunch. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
SCEMS
Sussex County EMS Awards Banquet The annual Sussex County Annual Emergency Services Awards banquet was held April 8, 2017, at the Selbyville Fire Company. The annual banquet is sponsored by the Sussex County Volunteer Ambulance Association, Sussex County Paramedic Association, and Sussex County EMS. Former SCEMS Paramedic and current Chief of EMS in Ft. Bend County, Texas, Graig Temple, was the guest speaker and provided an energetic presentation on the future direction of EMS. Stephanie Callaway Memorial Scholarship Winners: Morgan Bell (DTCC Paramedic Student) and Aaron Driscoll (Horry College South Carolina paramedic student). District EMTs of the Year: Medic 101 (Lincoln): Chet Reynolds; Medic 102 (Laurel): Gerald Strother; Medic 103 (Millsboro): Bob Eckman; Medic 104 (Lewes): R.J. Kauffman; Medic 105 (Millville): Brian McConlouge; Medic 106 (Long Neck): Holly Donaway; Medic 107 (Bridgeville): Jason Hudson; Medic 108 (Georgetown): Matt Heck. SCVAA EMT of the Year: Janet Sansone (Seaford). Fire Chief of the Year: Brian Martin (Bethany Beach). SCVAA Cliff Lee Award: David Hayman (Seaford). SCVAA Paramedic of the Year: Calvin Yelverton (SCEMS). Emergency Communications Specialist: Lillie Fitzgerald (Sussex EOC). EMS Nurse of the Year: Jessie Lynn Simpson (Beebe Healthcare). EMS Physician of the Year: Dr. Monty Spangler (Beebe Healthcare). EMS Supervisor of the Year-Career: Mike Scheerer (Rehoboth Beach). Ambulance Captain of the Year-Volunteer: Jay Jones (Ellendale). SCEMS Paramedic of the Year: Emmy Fibelkorn. SCEMS FTO of the Year: Frank Mayhorn. SCEMS District Supervisor of the Year: Mark Sheridan. SCEMS Administrative Excellence: Jason Booros. SCEMS Caring People Award: Review of a save in Laurel of a six-year-old boy who went into respiratory and cardiac arrest with a full recovery. Providers recognized: Dispatcher Lilly Fitzgerald; Laurel EMTs Brent Scott and Jaime Ashmead; SCEMS Paramedics Don Weber and Mike Murray. Shift Excellence Awards: A shift - Amanda McCloskey; B shift - Matt Troutman; C shift - Dustin Richards; D shift - Chaz Tenneman. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, SCEMS PIO
EMS Award Winners.
(Above): SCEMS Caring People Award. (Right): guest speaker, Graig Temple.
SCEMS Team Scores Fourth in FDNY (MSCO) Comp
SCEMS paramedics Chaz Tennerman, Bonnie O’Bier, and Brandon Rogers traveled to New York City in May 2017, to compete in the FDNY Medical Special Operations Competition (MSCO) and came home with a fourth-place finish. The competition consisted of clinical based scenarios in challenging situations. The scenarios involved a structural collapse three stories
above ground level, which necessitated climbing through a maze of debris to provide care to three patients. They then initiated patient extrication and coordination of ongoing operations before the building became unstable and they highest quality care no matter the environment. SCEMS is proud of the team and congratulates were required to emergently evacuate. The team’s results reinforce the efforts that them on a great performance. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, SCEMS PIO SCEMS take to ensure that they provide the
Deal Promoted to Paramedic II SCEMS is pleased to announce the promotion of Jarrod Deal to the position of Paramedic II. The promotion to the Paramedic II is the first advancement of the career ladder within SCEMS. Those achieving the rank will have successfully completed the testing and interview process. SCEMS congratulates Jarrod on his promotion and wishes him the best of luck in his career with SCEMS. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, SCEMS PIO
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
TRAINING
Fitness Drill for Milton, Ellendale In May 2017, the Milton Volunteer Fire Company held a fitness drill with the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
2017 Wilmington Fire Department Confined Space Training - Submitted by James R. Jobes
Vehicle Rescue Training Recently, several members participated in a vehicle rescue training session, taught by the Delaware State Fire School at B and F Towing. Participants split into two groups. The first were probationary members, who were instructed on the basic methods of vehicle rescue; i.e., stabilization, removal of glass, opening jammed doors, and removing the doors and the roof. The second group consisted of senior firefighters who did the same thing as the first group, but without instruction, allowing them to sharpen their skills. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Aetna Fire School at the West Chester Fire Academy - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
TRAINING
Demolition After Training Burns On March 4, 2017, crews from Roxana (90), Dagsboro (73), Ocean City (700), Bishopville (900), Bethany Beach (70) and Memorial (89) participated in live fire training evolutions at the last of the Twin Cedars apartment buildings located on Zion Church Road in Roxana. Crews trained on engine company operations with over 20 burns. After the training burns, the building was demolished. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Clayton Multi-Training Night at the State Fire School On April 3, 2017, members of the Clayton Fire Company were kept quite busy training at the State Fire School. The company conducted one of its required structural fire training classes and several other members were there to finish up class four-of-four in the firefighter survival class. Members taking the survival class rotated through both classes. Over 35 members attended the evening’s training, that consisted of interior firefighting operations using the residential side of the fire building at the school. Members finishing up the firefighter survival course were training on how to break through drywall to get away from an uncontrolled fire, as well as other techniques on how to save themselves if caught in a fire building. Deputy Fire Chief Alex Carrow said, “Looking at these men and ladies here tonight makes me very proud to be a chief officer in this department; giving up their time to train to help others is what our service is all about.” - Story and photo by Kevin Wilson
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
TRAINING
Volunteer Hose Trains and Burns
The Volunteer Hose Company was given a house to use for training, and eventually burn down, on April 30, 2017. Numerous hours of live fire training were conducted in a controlled environment. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by K. Figgs
Harrington Stabilization Training On May 9, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company conducted training on vehicle stabilization. The training was led by 3rd Assistant Chief Dean Helsel and past-Chief/Captain Jason Brode. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Georgetown Training Power tools in service at the Delaware State Fire School with a junior member operating the saw. - Submitted by Joey Pepper
Ellendale, Greenwood Train Ellendale Fire Company ladder training with Greenwood.
- Submitted by Lisa Turner
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
Obituaries
Howard Alan Schweitzer Howard Alan Schweitzer, 62, of Laurel, Delaware, passed away on April 20, 2017, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident near Georgetown. Alan, as he was known by all, was born in Angola, Indiana. He was the son of Howard I. Schweitzer and Rachel Williams of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Alan graduated in 1977 from Delaware State College with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and business management. He then worked for the Delaware Sussex County Council as a staff accountant and was a tax auditor for the Delaware Deptartment of Labor. He later opened his own accounting firm, H. Alan Schweitzer, Inc. in Laurel, Delaware. Alan served multiple terms as a City Council person for Ward 3, in Laurel. He was also a decorated firefighter and paramedic for both Ocean City Fire Department and Laurel Volunteer Fire Department. He was a 27-year member with the Laurel Fire Department, where he served in a variety of positions and mentored many of the younger and new members. Alan was also a Lieutenant for the Sussex County Technical Rescue Team. He had a kind heart and a gentle soul. As a member of St. Philips Episcopal Church in Laurel, he served as finance/treasurer, on the Vestry and as lay reader. Alan also lead a youth group. He loved hunting, fishing, camping and NASCAR. He rode his Harley Davidson at every opportunity. While in high school and college, he was a member of multiple rock bands, and could play many instruments. He was a home brew enthusiast, which he enjoyed sharing with friends and family. Alan is survived by his wife of almost 39 years, Jennifer Foskey Schweitzer; a daughter Beth Tyler (Chris); the apple of his eye, his grandson Toby Tyler; his sister, Cindy Salmon (John) of Avondale, PA; his niece Kate Salmon; and his mother-in-law Jane Foskey of Laurel. In addition to his father he is preceded in death by father-in-law, Toby Foskey, and sister-in-law Cathy Hastings. A funeral service was held at St. Philips Episcopal Church in Laurel on April 26, 2017. A celebration of life with full firematic honors took place at the Laurel Fire Department immediately following the church service. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, photo by the Ocean City Dispatch
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig
This issue will feature another great fire service person in the Delaware Fire Service that we all know very well. We know him from the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association — James L Cubbage, Jr., a 52-year member of the Clayton Fire Company. Jim has a very long fire service and community involvement history. He said that when growing up in Clayton he did not remember not getting up when the fire siren sounded. He would get his dad’s coat in the wintertime and find his cigarettes for him in the summer. Jim noted to me, “I guess I was born into the fire service.” His dad, James L. Cubbage, Sr., and his grandfather, James S. Donaway, Sr., were both life members of the Clayton Fire Company (CFC). His mom, Virginia, and grandmother, Ethel C. Donaway, were both charter and life members of the CFC Ladies Auxiliary. Jim followed in their footsteps when he joined the CFC on January 12, 1965, and he has held almost every elected or appointed fire line office or administrative office, serving as Chief in 73-74; and President from 1981 to 1984. He was awarded Fireman of the Year in 1967; made Life Member in 1981 and was made Chief Emeritus in 2010, becoming only the fourth member to achieve that title. Jim graduated from John Bassett Moore High School in Smyrna in 1966. He didn’t stop his education with high school, however, but continued to further his education, earning a Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Brandywine College of Widner University in 1976; and his Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Wilmington College in 1987, graduating Magna Cum Laude. In addition to earning these degrees while working full time, he also found time to attend the DSFS where he eventually became a Field Instructor. Not yet satisfied with learning as much as he could about the fire service, he attended and completed courses in Fire Arson Management at the National Fire Academy in Emmittsburg (MD), and also completed courses at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia. Jim became a member of the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office (DSFMO) in September 1972, and retired after 30 years in 2002 as Assistant State Fire Marshal-Chief of Investigations. During his career with the DSFMO he investigated over 2000 fire scenes as a Deputy Fire Marshal; was Commander of the Major Incident Response Team; served as Chief Evidence Technician; PIO; Project Manager for DFIRS; and supervised anywhere between five and 14 staff members, to name a few of the things that Jim did during his 30 years with the DSFMO. We also remember Jim as one of the Kent County Directors to DVFA from 1985 to 1998, going on to serve as President in 2001. When Jim finished his term as President he accepted
a job as the DVFA Executive Secretary in 2002 serving in that capacity until 2010. Again in this position, Jim wore many hats to include; Governmental Affairs Representative in the Delaware General Assembly; he coordinated and maintained seven federal grants totaling over $1.5 million; represented the DVFA at various meetings with the governor, cabinet secretaries, various state agencies and other organizations and associations. Jim attended many other firefighter’s association meetings to report on what was happening in the Delaware Fire Service. He was part of a large contingency of DVFA members/officers and others up and down the state to attend various meetings. His traveling companion for many of these functions was none other than Steve Austin.
Jim wasn’t quite ready to retire from working for the state, so in January 2011 he took a job with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency as the NIMCET coordinator. He was responsible for the State of Delaware’s compliance with the requirements of NIMS and also training, staffing, logistics and deployment capabilities of the Delaware Type III IMT. Finally in June 2015 after 4-½ years with DEMA he decided to retire and spend some quality time at home with his lovely wife Nancy and their two cats. Mr. Cubbage, thank you for your 42-½ years of service to the residents of the State of Delaware. You would think that with all the responsibilities that Jim had while working for the State of Delaware he wouldn’t have time for anything else. It seems, however, that a busy person always has time to add one or two more things to his plate to help out where needed. Jim was also involved in many other fire service functions both in state and out. He is a life member of the IAFC; member of the CVVFA Emergency Responder Safety
Institute; served as an Alternate to the NVFC; and a member of the Fire Marshals Association of America-FOP Lodge #3; just to name a few. For over 40 years Jim is proud to be a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators. He was very active in the IAAI, serving on numerous boards, committees and foundations during his 41 years of service. He received the George H. Parks Distinguished Service Award, and was awarded the Milestone Award for his 40 years of service. Jim also beloned to lots of fraternal organizations such as, Harmony Lodge #13 AF&AM, past-Master; Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite32nd degree Mason; Nur Temple Shrine; Shield and Square Club of Delaware; Order of the Kentucky Colonels; Tennessee Squire; served on several committees with the Town of Smyrna; was a Kansas City Barbeque Society-Certified Judge; and finally Membership SecretaryShamrock Judges Association. I asked Jim what memorable events he remembered from his vast experience in the Delaware Fire Service and he said one was the Massey Moore Farm barn fire of July 20, 1969, because it was the same night that Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon. The other event that stood out in his mind, of course, was September 11, 2001. He was serving as President of the DVFA and it was the second day of the conference when the horrific news arrived. Governor Minner and Jim met throughout the day and put an EMS task force together to respond to New York. During the week, emotions and tension were very high and with the other events that happened at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania, a decision was made to cancel the DVFA parade. This was a very trying time for our fire service, not only here in Delaware but across the nation. The one question that I ask all of our subjects is: Did you have a mentor/s that inspired you to do what you did? Jim recalled that, without a doubt, the most influential person in his fire service career was William R. ‘Ace’ Carrow. He was a dedicated leader who knew how to mentor, advise, counsel and lead by example. Not only as Fire Chief in Clayton, but as President of the DVFA. He was not only Jim’s mentor, but was one of his best friends, as he was to several other Clayton gentlemen such as Jamie Turner, Dave Mast and Kevin Wilson. In closing Jim stated that the younger generation needs to get, “Education, education and more education!” First of all a formal education. Get a degree, be it an AA or BA; secondly, strive to get NFPA Professional Qualifications and as much formal fire service training as available. Education is something that no one can take away from you. I have known Mr. Cubbage for many years and have found him to be knowledgeable, understanding and forthright in his beliefs in the fire service. Jim thanks for being my friend. It has been a privilege to write this article about you.
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 39
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Virtual Reality Activity at FDIC International 2017 Raises $25,000 for Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund Globe Donates Funds from New Turnout Gear Launch Activity Globe Manufacturing Company continued its partnership with the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund at FDIC International 2017, the nation’s largest firefighter training conference and exhibition held April 27-29 in Indianapolis. FDIC was Globe’s official launch of ATHLETIX™, the world’s first turnout gear with stretch. Attendees were invited to experience the unprecedented range of motion that is possible with the new ATHLETIX™ gear in a virtual reality experience for firefighters in the booth. Firefighters then spun a wheel to determine a donation – $10, $20, $50, or $100 – to the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund in their name. Globe raised and donated $25,000 to the Fund. “The Terry Fund appreciates the great partnership we have with Globe. Globe not only makes some of the best and most innovative fire gear on the market today but also strongly supports the fire service through its direct assistance to the Terry Fund,” said Brian Farrell, chairman of the Terry Farrell
Firefighters Fund and brother of Terry Farrell. “Firefighters across America also directly benefit from the awareness that Globe brings to the Fund.” “At Globe, we are celebrating 130 years of innovation this year,” said Rob Freese, senior vice president of marketing at Globe Manufacturing Company. “We have always given back to the fire service and are proud to partner with the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, a hard working group of volunteers that assists firefighters, families, and fire departments across the nation in their times of need.” About Globe Firefighters need to be prepared to perform at the maximum of their ability, on every call. That’s why Globe delivers the most advanced, best-fitting, and longest lasting protection by listening to our customers, creating breakthrough designs, and applying the engineering skills of the nation’s most trusted turnout gear manufacturer. Globe turnout gear is designed to protect you, move with you, and improve
your performance. It’s athletic gear for firefighters. Learn more at www.globeturnoutgear.com. About the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund is made of up firefighters and family members who volunteer their time and energy to help fellow brothers, sisters and departments in need. The fund operates annually on a budget of 1-3% and sustains itself through fundraising and the donations of individuals, fire departments and corporate sponsors. Contributions to the fund are tax deductible. National chapters are in Alabama, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Las Vegas, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Terry Farrell was a father, a husband, a brother, and a dedicated firefighter who lost his life on September 11, 2001, during the World Trade Center attack. Learn more at www.terryfund.org.
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Chaplain Arnold Gives CFSI Invocation
Delaware State Fire Chief’s Chaplain Charles Arnold gave the invocation at the CFSI Dinner in Washington, DC. Master of Ceremonies Dennis Compton introduced him. - Submitted by Terry Jester
Harrington’s Brode, Others Awarded for Arson Investigation On March 29, 2017, Harrington Fire Chief Robbie Brode received an award from the Anti-Defamation League at a ceremony held at the Chase Center in Wilmington. Chief Brode, who is a Deputy State Fire Marshal assigned to the Kent County Office, was recognized, along with other members of the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Delaware State Police and FBI, for their investigation into a string of church fire arsons. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
The 23rd Annual Hob Ryan Dinner
The auxiliary member with the most service years was F. Elaine The annual Hob Ryan dinner was held on April 23, 2017, at the Cheswold Fire Company’s James R. Roy Memorial Hall. The event was Jones of Station 78 with 69 years. It was a wonderful afternoon and each year as the count changes with attended by 308 fire company and ladies auxiliary members, and their guests. The firefighters with 40-plus years had a total of 5922 service additions and member losses, those present are glad to greet each other years. The auxiliary members with 25-plus years had a total of 3160 with a hug and a smile. The 24th Hob Ryan Dinner is scheduled for April 15, 2018. service years. Combined the total service years amounted to 9082. - Story by Geraldine Lynch, photos by Gene Shaner The firefighters with the most service years were Earl Ridley of Station 43 with 73 years, and Wallace Hudsonof Station 45 with 75 years.
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
DFSCA Honors Memorial for Keynen Canby Park Littleton Fallen
The Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association (DFSCA) recognized Keynen Littleton for his heroic actions at a fire on February 7, 2017. The young man helped saved his family utilizing what he had learned about fire prevention from the Laurel Fire Department. The Sussex County Council also gave Keynen a tribute and state legislators will present it to him later. (Left to right): Laurel Chief Engineer Mark Oliphant, DSFCA 1st Vice-President Andy Hall, County Councilman Rob Arlett, Keynen Littleton, County Council President Michael Vincent, DSFCA Secretary Steven Deery and DSFCA President Terry Jester. - Submitted by Chief Terry Jester
On May 7, 2017, Aetna WFD and Tallyville participated in a memorial service. Tallyville hosted this event and placed plaques and had a tree planted in memory of Ardy Hope, Jerry Fickes and Chris Leach, who died as a result of the Canby Park blaze. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Spring Cleaning for a Cause: The Bereavement Uniform Program “Making sure a dress uniform is available for conduction of Final Honors is what the BUP is all about and without question is one of the most generous and outstanding programs ever offered to a Fallen Firefighter. What we do collectively for families during this most solemn of times speaks volumes about who we are and how we honor those who serve. The Lighthouse BUP supports the American Fire Service in a most fitting and respectful way. The Eternal Chief and St. Florian are smiling,” said Michael Kuk, PhD., Chief Fire Chaplain, Vernon Parish FD (LA). Now available in all 50 states, the BUP needs your surplus dress uniforms … and the truth of the matter…the BUP won’t survive without you and your department. Take responsibility for checking your department’s storage closet and ship your surplus dress uniforms to: Lighthouse Uniform Company, Attn: BUP, 1532 15th Avenue W., Seattle, WA 98119 Every donation is recorded on the BUP’s Be Remembered Wall of Fame. Don’t forget to include a note with how you would like your donation to read. For more information, call 206-282-5600 (PST). - BC Greg Markley, Sec/Treasurer Washington State Council of Fire Fighters
June 2017
9-11 Memorial Trip
Several members from the Five Points Fire Company traveled to New York City for a company-sponsored trip. Everyone was dropped off at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, and then traveled the city from there. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
SCBAs and Equipment Donated On April 22, 2017, the Terry Farrell Fund of Delaware supplied the Johnson Township Fire Co. of Scottsburg, Indiana, with surplus bunker gear, boots, helmets and complete MSA air packs for their fire company. A special thank you to Fire Chief Mike Testa, and Deputy Chief Tom Manley of the Five Points Fire Company for the additional donation of MSA airpacks and to Fire Chief Rick Deputy of the Carlisle Fire Company for the additional donation of surplus gear. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
Over the Edge for SODE
Special Olympics Delaware (SODE) has been a special interest of the New Castle Firefighters Association for years. SODE depends on donations from a number of events to put on the programs for these athletes. One of the events is Over the Edge, a unique fundraising event allowing colleagues or friends the opportunity to raise money to send yourself, a friend, a boss or colleague, rappelling 17 stories (222 feet) “Over the Edge” of a building to raise money and awareness for SODE. (Left to right): Richard Perillo, 1st VP DVFA and an Over the Edger; Ron Marvel, Fire Commissioner (Over the Edger); Mr. Montgomery, Matt Montgomery, NCCVFA Special Olympics Ambassador; Mrs. Montgomery; Lisa Smith, SODE and Aetna HH&L Co.; Councilman Bill Bell; Wally Poppe, Chief of the Delaware City FC.; Joe Mullen, SODE Coach and Good-Will FC; Richard Perillo, Chief, Christiana FC (Over the Edger). - Submitted by Warren Jones
Clayton Awards Linda Lightcap Scholarship to Morgan Burnett Each year the Clayton Fire Company presents a $1,000 scholarship to a firefighter or the child of a Clayton Fire Company member. This year’s winner is Morgan Burnett, the daughter of Clayton Lieutenant Jonathan Burnett. Morgan, a senior at Smyrna High, has been accepted into the nursing program at Del Tech Terry Campus. The scholarship was named in honor of Linda Lightcap who died suddenly several years ago. Linda was a member of the Clayton Ladies Auxiliary, her husband Robert is a past-President of the company and her son Robert J. Lightcap is a past -Chief of the company. (Left to right): Leslie Pope Committee Chair, Morgan Burnett and Robert L. Lightcap. - Story and photo by Kevin Wilson
Elsmere 96th Banquet
On March 25, 2017, the officers and members of the Elsmere Fire Company and Auxiliary held their 96th annual banquet, a night of awards, dinner and dancing. There were five member’s receiving their 50 years of service awards: George F. Cunningham; Gerald F. Dougherty; Alexander A. Leonetti; Joseph J. Leonetti, Sr.; and Michael R. Schaal. The members would like to thank the ladies and men of the Goodwill Fire Company for serving the meal, and the Wilmington Manor Fire Company for covering Elsmere’s district so members could enjoy the evening. A special shout out to bartenders Kimmie, Mike and Donnie for putting up with the crowd all night long! - DFSN photo by Frank Maule, PIO Elsmere FC; Submitted by Frank Maule
June 2017
Murtha Named New Dep. Dir of DEMA The officers and members of Claymont Fire Company are proud to announce Firefighter/EMT Chris Murtha being appointed to Deputy Director of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency. Chris has more than 30 years of experience in the public safety field. He began his service as a volunteer firefighter in Gloucester County, New Jersey, and is a veteran of the United States Air Force. He served on the Wilmington Fire Department for over 20 years, and retired with the rank of captain in 2015. He then worked as a Fire Protection Specialist for the City of Newark,a nd then as a Trainer/Educator with DEMA. He was promoted to Planning Supervisor in November 2016 and currently manages the Terrorism Preparedness Section. Murtha holds several college degrees, and numerous public safety certifications. Chris continues to serve his community as a member of our company. Chris, the members wish you all the best in your new role! - Submitted by Gary Plotts
2017 EDIAFC Conference
On May 18, 2017, the 2017 Eastern Division International Association of Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) conference was held in Rehoboth Beach. The past-presidents had a great dinner on Thursday night, followed on Friday night by a barbecue-beach party at Slaughter Beach put on by the Station 89 Ladies Auxiliary. Governor John Carney attended Saturday night and spoke to the attendees. (Left to right): Bill Betts, immediate past-President; Frank Hand, PA Director; Paul Sullivan, MD Dir,; Terry Jester, DE Dir.; Ted Lowden, International Dir.; Joe Fahd, 2nd VicePresident; Paul Sterling, President; John Sinclair, IAFC President. Missing, were Chris Assenheimer, NJ Director and Jim Yates, 1st Vice-President. - Submitted by Terry Jester, photo by Bill Tobin
Correl: Member of the Month for March 2017
During the April meeting of the Clayton Fire Company, Dakota Correll was honored as the March Member of the Month. During March Dakota attend seven of 18 alarms, two training drills, one company meeting, and two miscellaneous functions for a total of 15 points for the month, with 65 points for the year. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 47
Lewes’ Jacob Slater Burned in a Work Accident Lewes FD Lieutenant Jake Slater was involved in a work accident and suffered serious burns. He was initially seen at Beebe Healthcare and later flown to John Hopkins Bayview. Jake has undergone multiple surgeries and continues to progress. The Slater family and Lewes Fire Department would like to thank everyone for their prayers, support, and donations. You can follow Jake’s progress on the either lewesfire.com o r # J a k e St r o n g on Facebook. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, Lewes FD PIO
Sam Grow Concert
On April 1, 2017, Volunteer Hose Company hosted a Sam Grow concert. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Heck Named District 108 EMT of the Year
Career NREMT Matt Heck received the 2016 District 108 EMT of the Year at the Annual EMS Banquet on April 8, 2017. Matt has been a fulltime NREMT with Georgetown EMS since 2014, and is very active in Georgetown Fire Company and a proud United States Marine. He is passionate in all his endeavors and an excellent leader. Matt is very humble. To see and hear him interact with his patients is simply amazing! We are extremely proud to have him on t he TEAM at Sta ti o n 9 3 . Congratulations. - Submitted by Deanna C. Loeb
Door-To-Door Fire Prevention Awareness
The Wilmington Fire Department continued its ongoing quarterly Fire Prevention Awareness initiative by conducting door-to-door distribution of fire prevention pamphlets as well as providing and installing smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in the Wilmington community. Wilmington’s goal is to significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries and deaths related to the lack of smoke and/or carbon monoxide alarms through proactive education. By conducting these quarterly door-to-door initiatives, personnel can directly interact with the citizens they serve and answer any questions they may have, while providing them with the necessary educational literature and smoke/CO alarms to keep their families safe. - Submitted by James R Jobes
Pridemore: February Member of the Month On March 14, 2017, at the monthly meeting of the Clayton Fire Company, Captain John Pridemore was honored as the February Member of the Month. Captain Pridemore attended 19 of 24 fires, three training drills, four uniform functions, four miscellaneous events, and a company meeting for a total of 41 points, giving Captain Pridemore a total of 97 points for the year. (Left to right): President Robert Faulkner, Captain Pridemore and Fire Chief Wes Davis. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson PIO, photo by Mike Carroll
Blood Battle: Boots and Badges For the third consecutive year, lawmakers are teaming up with the Blood Bank of Delmarva to launch a campaign pitting firefighters against police in a friendly competition to generate donations. State House Minority Leader Danny Short (R-Seaford), and State Rep. William Carson (DSmyrna), are leading the Boots Team. Rep. Short is a pastState Reps. Danny Short (left) and Chief of the Seaford Volunteer William Carson (right) with the Fire Department, and Rep. Champion Cup. Carson is a past-Chief of the Smyrna Fire Department (Citizens’ Hose Company). The Boots Team won the competition in 2016 and bragging rights will again be at stake in this year’s matchup. The winners will take possession of the Boots and Badges Blood Drive Champion Cup. The campaign got an unofficial start on May 2, 2017, with a blood drive at Legislative Hall, which will extend into the summer. Donors who wish to include their contributions to the campaign should notify blood bank staffers if it should be tallied for the Boots or Badges team. The Blood Bank of Delmarva is a non-profit organization providing blood to 16 hospitals on the Delmarva Peninsula. More than 79,000 blood donations are needed annually to service approximately 20,000 patients throughout the region. Those interested in donating can schedule an appointment online by going to www.delmarvablood.org or by calling 1-888-8-BLOOD-8. - Submitted by Joe Fulgham
EMS Worker Assaulted
On the evening of May 1, 2017, St. Francis Ambulance workers assigned to Wilmington Fire Station 2 were sitting in front of the fire station along with another St. Francis unit, when they were approached by three unknown pedestrians. One of the three complained to the EMS workers he was having chest pains. EMS began their normal medical protocol asking appropriate questions to determine the severity of the pedestrian’s chest pains. Soon after, one of the two EMTs was punched in the face. EMTs initiated a “1040,” a distress call, for an officer in trouble. The second EMT gave chase to the assailants where he caught up with one and a brief struggle ensued, in which the EMT sustained a hand injury. That suspect then fled on foot in an unknown direction. The 1040 activated police officers from Wilmington Police Department, New Castle County Police Department, St. Francis Ambulance, and Wilmington Fire Department members to respond to assist. An area search was conducted for the suspects with negative results. Both EMTs involved in the incident were transported to St. Francis Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact the Wilmington Fire Marshal’s office at 302-571-3120. - Submitted by James R Jobes
Page 48, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Delaware City Tributes and Support
Delaware City members who participated in a CRP save with Delaware City officers.
Delaware City members came out to support Jase Lyons, one of their member’s son. Delaware City members received a tribute for 130 years of service from New Castle County Council. (Left to right): Councilman Jay Street, Dave Carpenter, Jasper Lakey, Mike McMichael, President Paul Johnson and Councilman Bill Bell. - Submitted by Warren Jones, photos by Jasper Lakey
Five Points Displays Apparatus On April 24, 2017, Captain Shepherd and crew took Five Points Ladder 17 to Zion Lutheran Church to give a presentation to Boy Scout Troop 19. First, Captain Shepherd explained different EMS equipment used, specifically a cervical collar. After that, the scouts went outside to tour Ladder-17. Captain Shepherd and the rest of the crew then explained different tools carried on the apparatus. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Cadet Saves Sister
On March 27, 2017, Lindsey Espinoza, a 14-year-old Cadet, was babysitting her four-year-old sister and noticed her choking. She immediately sprang into action and, after performing the Heimlich maneuver, she cleared a plastic toy from her sister’s throat. Her skills were learned during the Cadet Program at Millsboro Middle School. Matt Gajdos from Delaware State Fire School assisted the mentors from Roxana in teaching basic first aid and airway-clearing methods to the Cadets in December. Great job, Lindsey! The Cadet Program is proud of you. Recognizing Lindsey for her actions were Sussex County Councilman Rob Arlett, Chief Chris Uibel and Gerald Brinson from Roxana Volunteer Fire Company, Matt Gajdos from DE State EMS Association, Ron O’Neal from Millsboro Volunteer Fire Company, Chief Terry Jester from DE State Fire Chiefs Association and Dr. Jerns, principal of Millsboro Middle School. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
The Importance of Reading
On May 1, 2017, Chief Uibel and Councilman Arlett announced a continuation of Operation GEM at the Phillip C. Showell school assembly. The students, staff, and members of Roxana are very excited about this reading pilot program, “Blazing a Trail for Literacy.” Reading is a fundamental building block in the development of our children. The Roxana Volunteer Fire Company and Operation GEM are advocates of reading in our schools and at home. The top three readers from each grade (kindergarten through fifth) who read the most minutes in the prescribed time period will receive a prize. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
June 2017
Happy Mother’s Day
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 49
On May 12, 2017, members from Roxana Volunteer Fire Company along with DSP, Selbyville Police, Fenwick Police and Sussex County Paramedics handed out flowers to mothers living at Brandywine Assisted Living in Roxana. After meeting and handing out the flowers to the mothers, everyone enjoyed a meal prepared by the staff of Brandywine while socializing with the mothers and staff. A great time was had by all! - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Roxana Hosts Operation GEM
On April 9, 2017, the Roxana Volunteer Fire Company and the Cadets hosted an Operation GEM. The company and cadets wish to thank all who supported the event, and enjoyed the games, seeing the Easter bunny, watching the cadet demonstrations, learning CPR from SCEMS, looking at DSP Trooper 2, Parson’s Petting Zoo and, of course, the egg hunt. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Cadets Learn From the Pros On April 27, 2017, cadets at MMS focused on EMS. The week started off with learning the differences between BLS and ALS in Sussex County. This was followed by learning about splinting, with assistance from DSFS. The week wrapped up with a visit from SCEMS who showed the cadets their tools of the trade and discussed their careers. The mentors and cadets appreciate all of the assistance and thank you for your support! - Scott Veasey, Glenn Marshall, Jonathan Offen, Leah O’Boyle and Amy Szuba. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Cadets Certify in CPR, AED
On May 7, 2017, Roxana GEM Cadets tested to become CPR/AED certified. Cadets were instructed and, later in the evening tested through practicals. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
Page 50, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service in Action
lmington blaze. Five displaced by Wi photo by John Randolph , bes Jo R s me Ja - Submitted by
Five Points assists Els mere. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Roxana rollover MVC. - Submitted By Chris Uibel
Clayton training. - Photos by Mike Carroll
Indian River MVC. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
Claymont assists Christ iana at MVC. -Submitted by Gary Plo tts
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 51
Delaware Fire Service in Action
Georgetown - Submitted garage fire. by Joey Pep per
One injured at Roxana Road fire. - Submitted by Chris Uibel
s to house fire. Harrington respond rl Brode Ea by d itte - Subm
Marydel hits brush fire. - Submitted by Mike Bredin
ck ponds to garbage tru Volunteer Hose res by Tim Murray - Submitted
fire.
House fire, then pole fire. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Page 52, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Up Close & Personal
Cheswold Fire Company assisted by Clayton, Smyrna, Hartly and Kent County Paramedics responded to a non-residential dwelling fire on Bryn-Zion Road recently. - Submitted by Gene Shaner, photos by Doug Curran
On April 9, 2017, the Roxana Volunteer Fire Company and the Cadets hosted an Operation GEM. - Submitted by Chris Uibel Aetna fire school at the West Chester Fire Academy. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Ladder 17 crew after an assist to Elsmere and other area fire companies for a multi-residential building fire in the Elsmere Park Apartment complex on February 28, 2017. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
On May 13, 2017, Wilmington Fire Department Marine units were dispatched for report of two subjects in the water. - Submitted by James R. Jobes, photo by John Randolph
The Dover Fire Department responded to a structure fire on North New Street on April 19, 2017. - DFSN photos by Gene Shaner
June 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 53
LIBERTY ART WORKS BRONZE AXE PRESENTED TO PRESIDENT TRUMP The I-85 Bridge First Responders of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department presented President Trump with a custom solid bronze fire ax. The Atlanta Fire Department commissioned the custom ax with Liberty Art Works, Inc. a company based in St. Louis, Missouri. Liberty Art Works, Inc., is a firefighter-owned and -operated business with over 40-years experience creating high quality bronze custom awards and monuments to honor the "Bravest and Finest" fire, police, EMS and military personnel. Being comprised of Firefighters, Liberty Art Works understands the importance of what their bronze sculptures represent and delivers the highest quality in each hand-finished piece. President Trump recognized this quality saying it was beautiful and he was appreciative of the ax. He then took time to personally sit with the First Responders recognizing their bravery and pledging the full support of his administration to all First Responders. Liberty Art Works takes great pride that all their items are designed, manufactured and assembled in the USA. To learn more about t h e i r c o m p l e t e b r o n z e c o l l e c t i o n , p l e a se v i si t www.LibertyArtWorks.com or c a l l 8 8 8 4 11 - 7 7 4 4 to receive a catalog.
Page 54, Delaware Fire Service News
June 2017
Fire Marshal’s Report Hockessin Home Destroyed by Fire
Electrical Malfunction in Wilmington
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has concluded that the fire that destroyed a Hockessin, Delaware, home on May 24, 2017 was accidental. The blaze, reported shortly after 1700, occurred in the 100 block of Neptune Drive in the North Star development off of North Star Road. The Hockessin Fire Company arrived with flames shooting through the roof. Deputy fire marshals were called to the scene to conduct the investigation. The fire was caused by faulty electrical wiring. Smoke filled the occupied home and flames eventually broke through the roof. Seven occupants escaped without injury. Heavy fire damage was estimated to exceed $300,000. Three adults and four children have been displaced because of the amount of fire damage. The American Red Cross provided emergency assistance to the family.
Robert L. Fox, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office has determined that a house fire on April 5, 2017 in Wilmington, Delaware, was accidental. The Elsmere Fire Company responded to the 1300 block of Kenwood Drive, in the neighborhood of Oak Hill, for a report of a house on fire. Upon arrival the fire department found heavy smoke and fire coming from the second floor of the residence. Several neighboring fire companies responded to the scene to assist. Deputy Fire Marshal’s were called to the scene and have determined that the fire was accidental and caused by an electrical malfunction in a multiplug extension cord igniting combustibles in the second-floor bedroom. The fire caused approximately 75,000 dollars in damage to the residence. There were no injuries reported. The residents are staying with family.
Man Critically Injured in Dover Fire
Four Horses Perish in Millsboro Fire
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a fire on April 11, 2017 in Dover, Delaware, that critically injured a man. The blaze, reported shortly after 1200, occurred at the Alder Park Apartments located at 51 Webb’s Lane. The Dover Fire Department arrived on the scene with flames coming from a second-story apartment. A 41-year-old male resident was severely burned. He was transported to Bayhealth’s Kent General Hospital in critical condition. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $250,000. The American Red Cross assisted providing emergency aid to the other residents in the building.
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a barn fire on March 22, 2017 in Millsboro, Delaware, which killed four horses. The blaze, reported shortly before 0300, occurred in the 24000 block of Cannon Road. The Indian River Fire Company arrived on the scene to find an approximate 20- x 75-foot livestock building in flames. State fire investigators have determined that this fire was accidental in nature and caused by a heat lamp igniting nearby combustible material inside the barn. Several animals perished in the fire including four horses. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $50,000. There were no reported injuries.