VOLUME 18, NO. 4
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
AUGUST 2015
See page 46 for full story. - DFSN photo by Chris Lucas
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Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... Car Fire Snuffed Rehoboth Beach firefighters responded to a SUV on fire at the Bayside Outlets on Coastal Highway. See story page 14
Bethany Beach In Training Coverage of recent Ocean Rescue, Forcible Entry and Ladder trainings. See story page 18
Rollover with Entrapment Camden-Wyoming Fire Company was alerted for a single-vehicle rollover with entrapment. See story page 23
Sussex County FD Safe Kids Day The Sussex County Coalition of Safe Kids annual Safe Kids Day was held at the Lowe’s Home Improvement Center, in Lewes. See story page 29
Rehoboth Beach Dedicates New Station 2 A May 16, 2015, dedication ceremony was attended by numerous public officials and neighboring fire companies. See story page 30
Obituaries; John E. ‘Jack’ Bare and Charles Young See stories on pages 36 & 40
An independently owned news and information resource for the dedicated firefighters, emergency medical technicians, auxiliary members, and public safety officials in the State of Delaware. Thanks to the support of its advertisers, this newspaper is distributed free of charge to every fire station in the First State. Published quarterly by Fire News, Inc., 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. Delaware Fire Service News is a registered trademark and all material contained herein is copyrighted. All rights reserved. Frank C. Trotta, Publisher Tim Edwards, Executive Editor Dennis Whittam, Editor Gary Joyce, Asst. Editor Marie Trotta, Vice President, Production/Sales Cliff Chiesa, Art Director Barbara Connolly, Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler Graphic Artists Warren F. Jones and Thomas J. Mitten, Publishers Emeritus Sal DeVivo, Founding Publisher Contributors: Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Mike Carroll, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Richard S. Danner, Michele Ehart, Mark Felicetti, Robert Fox, Charles Frampton Jr., Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Joe Hopple, Dave Horack, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Melissa Kiser, Ryan Knowles, Ann Marie Krystopolski, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Harry Miller, Tom Mitten, Joe Mullen, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Christy Paxson, Phil Pennington Sr., Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, Louden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Brian Slattery, Rick Stewart, William Thomas, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Stephanie Wales, Rob Watts, Steve Watson, Paul Watts, Matt Williams ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-687-0343 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $15.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 23 Insta Signs ........................... 41 Amer. Military Univ ............. 37 Jersey Fire & Safety ............ 17 ASI ....................................... 35
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 41 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 44 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 45 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 45 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46
Loughlin Ladder .................. 13
Atlantic Emergency Solutions Magnum Electronics ............. 7 ................... 5, 15, 24, 25, 31, 47 Provident Agency Inc. ........... 9 Breaking News Network ...... 41 Roll N Rack .......................... 28 DPC ............................. 2, 19, 48 Rush Uniforms ...................... 9 ESI ....................................... 17 Spartan ................................. 11 FireFlow .............................. 20 Spicer Mullikin .................... 33 IChiefs FRI .......................... 43 TFFF ................................... 16
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
The Firehouse Table It was 1959 when I sat at my first firehouse table. I was a young kid who stopped by the quarters of Engine 233 in Brooklyn. The table was a long wooden table that was covered with black “battleship linoleum.” I remember having my first cup of tea at that table, made with sugar and evaporated milk. I also remember the conversation that was going on. The members were talking about a cartoonist named Ham Fisher. Ham was known for creating the comic strip Joe Palooka. Ironically he was a buff at a Brooklyn company. Before Ham took his life in his Brooklyn studio, he painted a scene of Joe Palooka on the kitchen wall of his favorite firehouse. Unfortunately, the scene was painted over by accident when a probationary firefighter was asked to paint the kitchen and painted over the last picture that Ham Fisher drew. The members of Engine 233 commented on and on about the mistake that was made. Yes, this was the first conversation I listened to at a firehouse table. As I travel throughout the country and stop by local firehouses, I find that the tables have changed in appearance — some are works of art. One thing appears to have remained the same. The stories in every firehouse kitchen deal with a multitude of topics. The kitchen table is still where we discuss both good and bad calls, training, family, and where we share personal problems, and solve all of the problems of the world. Unfortunately there are times we sit at the table and stare into our coffee and never say a word. These are the times that we probably want to forget about. Maybe it was a fatal call, or possibly we suddenly lost a member who was loved by everyone. Sooner or later someone says something about that member and we all start to smile and add our own memories. Yes the kitchen table can be a sacred place where we lessen the effects of post traumatic stress. Numerous times members just open up to one another and share what is on their mind. When they leave, the remaining members will look at one another and say, “what are we going to do?” Ray Cooney, a retired FDNY firefighter, has an article every month in Fire News. He shares great recipes along with kitchen stories. His TV show which is aired on cable TV brings you into different firehouse kitchens throughout the area. Visit FirehouseKitchenShow.com to learn more about Ray and his show. Regardless of the location, the firehouse kitchen is a sacred place. Whether it is a round table, a long rectangular table, a couch and coffee table, this is where firefighters bond with one another and learn about their brothers and sisters. It is where we help one another cope with everyday situations. The next time you sit at your kitchen table, listen and learn. When my wife asks where I am off to, I tell her I am going for coffee at the “Table of Knowledge.” She knows what I mean and smiles. What is better than good company, good conversation, and the lasting friendship of the firehouse table. - Dennis
HOSE CONNECTIONS
Fire Service to Play an Important Role if Delaware’s Poultry Industry is Hit by Avian Flu Fire Companies asked to Help Eradicate Diseased Birds by Steve Austin No, this is not a spoof or and overdue April fool’s joke. There is a national crisis in the poultry industry affecting flocks of chickens and turkeys. Avian Flu is moving west to east across the country and now is in the Midwest. It could be on the way to Delaware. Thus far, according the Wilmington News Journal 48 million birds have died or have been killed to prevent the spread of the disease. If you do the grocery shopping you may have noticed that egg prices are increasing dramatically. That’s because laying hens are contracting the disease. The flu also is killing broilers, turkeys, geese and ducks as well as some wild birds that are thought to infect their domestic cousins. There are no known cases where the current strain has been contracted by humans. At the June State Fire Chief’s Meeting at Harrington State Veterinarian Heather Hirst (yes, we do have one of those) painted an unpleasant picture of harm the H5N1 avian influenza could do to Delaware's $2.9 billion poultry industry. Should the flu reach the Diamond State it could wreak economic havoc on farmers, their employees, along with the businesses that are connected to the poultry industry. There are contingency plans in place and, like it or not, the fire service is a big player. Since 9-11 the role of fire departments have expanded to all-hazards response agencies. Most fire departments deploy resources far more often for non-fire emergencies already. Rural companies are no stranger to farm related emergencies that most often involve trauma to farm workers and sometime animal rescue missions. Many of us have vivid imaginations, but I suspect few ever thought our companies would be summoned to help eradicate thousands of diseased chickens. So what would we be called to do? According to the State Veterinarian, there is no cure for the flu and once a bird is detected with the disease the entire flock must be destroyed. People who do such things for a living have devised a method to kill an entire house full of birds (about 25,000). The method that supposedly has been judged to be “humane” is to smother the birds with a thick layer of foam as much as least six- to 12inches above their heads so they will suffocate. Individuals can judge if that is more compassionate than the way
healthy birds are killed in a processing plant, stunned by an electrical charge and then having their heads chopped off by a whirling blade, but I digress. The state already has the foam generators, hose and folding tanks. They need the fire service for water, up to 6,000 gallons per chicken house. The plan is that the state will set up the foam generators in a chicken house along with the folding tanks outside. About 250 feet of state-owned hose will be deployed from the tank to an area where fire department pumpers and tankers will transfer water to the folding tanks. The state plans to work out compensation for delivering the water. As noted, this strain of bird flu is not contagious to man. However workers treat infected birds as a bio hazmat donning Level A suits. This is to minimize humans carrying the virus to “clean” houses. Keeping the fire department far away minimizes this risk. Steve Connors, who works at the Department of Agriculture and is Chief at Hartly Fire Company, related that when the birds are all dead they are left in the houses and heat is maintained at 100 degrees. The birds decompose. This process also kills the disease. The house is again checked for the virus. If no virus is detected the contents of the house are removed chopped and spread on fields for fertilizer. One can envision how bad that job is. At least the fire service will not be called to participate in this part of the operation. This column has often related how the fire service is woven into the fabric of our state and how important we are to the well-being of our citizens. Each day there seems to be yet another emergency we are asked to mitigate. Yet, just like all the others, we will figure out a way to adapt and overcome. It is what we do.
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
Conference: All of the Conference 2015 forms are on the DVFA Website, including the agenda and seminars. They are the new forms and are available to be entered while you are on your computer. DVFA Round Table Seminar: This year’s DVFA Round Table will again include our Attorney, Bill Preston, who will offer some pertinent legal advice as well as discuss the issues that have come up this year. A new person, this year, to our Round Table is our investment counselor, Scott Crawford. Scott will talk about investing your money and things you should be looking out for that will increase your return on investment. We will also talk about this past legislative session and prospects for this upcoming year in the General Assembly. Lastly, Mark Grubb from DIVCOMM will be there to update you on LMR and Broadband communications. HOT Training 2015: This year’s “Firefighter Hands-on Training” will be an FDIC class, “Man vs Machinery.” It will be presented by Mark Gregory (FDNY) and his crew. The program is geared towards firefighters of all levels. It provides knowledge and techniques to remove victims from
DVFA Office
machinery, from common household items to industrial machinery. You will be challenged with scenarios of entrapments and entanglements with no special rescue equipment available. The same class will be run both Thursday and Friday with a limit of on 25 students per day. This class is a must for all firefighters. Managing and Leading: Eric Haley of the Claymont Fire Company will provide students with ideas, skills and practical applications to help them develop into leaders or become better leaders within the volunteer fire service. We all know that volunteerism across the nation is down and continues to steadily decrease. Learn how to do more with fewer personnel, less funding, less support and fewer resources. Legal Seminars: In the Legal Seminar, Barry Willoughby and Margaret DiBianca will discuss wages, FLSA, unions, contract negotiations, disciplinary issues, employee issues, policies and handbooks. Pension Seminar: The purpose of this workshop is to provide information on the rules and regulations pertaining to the Delaware Volunteer
Firefighter's and Ladies Auxiliary Pension system. Several staff members from the State Pension office will demonstrate and illustrate how to properly complete, compute and submit the necessary forms to the Delaware Pension Office. Station Pride: Station Pride will presenting a seminar focused on the issues that specifically effects the Volunteer Fire Service and how to overcome them. This includes problems in regards to recruitment and retention, executive management, training, employees vs. members and other topics. Recruitment at the State Fair: The Recruitment Committee is looking for male and female firefighters to work the recruitment booth at the State Fair. The fair runs from July 23 to August 1, 2015. By working the booth you receive free access to the fair, free ticket to the Thursday night rodeo, and the chance to help your fire service recruit new members. If you have any questions of need any help with the conference forms please contact the DVFA Office. Warren Jones, Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566
DVFA President by Anthony R. Guzzo, President, DVFA
Wow! It is July and my term is almost over, only two months to go. My wife, Jackie and I want to thank you for your invitations and hospitality. In the months since the last edition of this newspaper it has been really busy. I attended the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast and the Dedication of the new Rehoboth Beach Fire Station, Station 2. I congratulate Rehoboth on the great job they did on their new station. I know it will serve them well. I and many members of the Delaware Fire Service attended the service for Beau Biden in Legislative Hall on June 4, 2015. I want to thank all
of you who attended this or any of the other services. It was a shock when I received the news that Beau had passed away. I join you all in wishing the Biden family our sincere condolences. The conference is just around the corner. I want to thank all the conference committees for the tremendous job they do in preparing this event for you. A lot has been said this year about the cost of the conference. I certainly understand, but nothing can detract from the many hours our people put into the planning and presenting of the conference. They do a remarkable job. I also want to thank the Recruitment and Retention Committee for all their hard work. I hope you all had successful open houses on May 16. If you did not, talk to our Recruitment Chairman to see how you can make next year’s open house better. This year we are again sponsoring the Rodeo at the State Fair, through our SAFER Grant. It is on July 23, 2015, at the State Fair in Harrington. Come
on down, and support the recruitment efforts. The legislative session for this year just ended on July 1, and what a long, and eventually rewarding one it was. We were told the week before that Grant in Aid would be cut five percent across the board and the Reality Transfer Tax would be cut by one third. The DVFA worked very hard to prevent this from happening. We met with the Governor, many legislators and members of the JFC about our concern. The DVFA Officers, the Fire Commissioners and other fire service members were in Legislative Hall on June 30. Some stayed into the wee hours of July 1. In the end our Grant in Aid was restored, the RTT was restored, and our two bills -HB133 (Sprinkler Legislation) and SB89 (Certified Food Manager Exemption) - were passed. I wish to thank everyone who worked to make these things possible. I wanted thank all of you for what you do for the fire service and wish you a great and safe summer.
LADVFA Corner by Karen Majewski, President LADVFA
Greetings from Old New Castle. The weather is warming up and I hope that everyone is staying safe during their summer travels. During the past month, I was able to attend all three county’s memorial services. They were a wonderful tribute to all of the hard working Auxiliary members we have lost in the past year. President Guzzo and I attended the DAPS&S Awards Ceremony at Aetna Fire Company. It was a privilege to attend the event and present the top female cadet with an award. They are a great group of young men and women, and the school is a great
recruitment for fire companies and auxiliaries. There has been a lot of action with S.B. 89. A group of ladies and men attended the Senate committee meeting on June 3, 2015. PSP Saralee Stevens represented the LADVFA and testified on the committee floor. S.B. 89 passed the Senate Committee and moved to the Senate floor. The bill passed to go to the House Committee with an addendum that adds a very low risk category that includes catering 52 or less times a year. The bill is now waiting to go to the House floor and we are hoping by the end of June that the bill will have passed the House floor and be waiting for the Governor’s signature. I would like to thank the ladies and men who have attended the meetings and made calls to their senators. Your help has been outstanding. I had the pleasure of attending the Maryland State Banquet in Ocean City on June 20, 2015. I also attended the Kent County Ladies Auxiliary County
Meeting on June 23, 2015, and had honor to install their new officers. Congratulations to Deb Lawhead on a great past two years and best wishes to President Shirley Pennington and her new officers on a successful two years! The LADVFA cookbooks have arrived! Congratulations to PSP Saralee Stevens and her committee on all the hard work! The cookbooks are available for purchase for $20. The LADVFA received a letter from the Blades Volunteer Fire Company which has made a motion to dissolve of the Blades Ladies Auxiliary. I am sorry that this has happened and wish the ladies best of luck in their future plans and thank you for all of your dedication throughout the years. I would like to wish all of you a safe summer and don’t forget to use sunscreen and to schedule your mammograms!
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Obituary
Vice President’s Son, Beau Biden passes
(Left): Ladder Trucks from Rehoboth Beach and Dover Fire hold American Flag as Mill Creek Fire Company ambulance sits between the two ladder trucks. On June 4, 2015, the Delaware Fire Service came to Legislative Hall, in the State Capitol, to pay their respects to the Biden family and to say good-by to a great Delawarean, Beau Biden. The uniformed men and women of the Delaware Fire Service stood in line with hundreds of others to honor Beau. On the street, at Legislative Hall, to greet the family, were two ladder trucks, holding a large American flag, in true fire service tradition. The ladder trucks were from Rehoboth Beach, where the Biden family frequently vacationed, and from the Dover Fire Department where Beau worked when he was the Delaware Attorney General. Between the two ladders and under the flag was the Mill Creek Fire Company ambulance. The significant of the Mill Creek ambulance was twofold, first it was a Mill Creek ambulance which took then Senator Joe Biden, to Bethesda Naval Hospital many years before, and secondly, Beau was an honorary member of the Mill Creek Volunteer Fire Company. The Biden’s and the Delaware Fire Service have been interconnected since Beau's father, Joe, was elected to the United States Senate and the tragic accident that killed his wife and daughter. They say, it was Joe Biden who gave the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service the moniker of the “Third Political Party.” Joe never missed a
Delaware Volunteer Fire Service Conference Luncheon and he never missed his annual fire service ice cream socials. Even on the campaign trail, Joe always called in to the luncheons to wish the fire service well. Frequently Beau was at his father’s side during those events, with an ice cream scoop in his hand, serving ice cream to the men and women of the Delaware Fire Service. It was Beau who installed the DVFA Officers in 2008. On January 20, 2009, the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service sent 400 uniformed men and women and the Citizens Hose Fire Company Band to salute Vice President Biden and to participate in the Inaugural Parade. These are just some of the events that illustrate the interconnection, but there a many more. On June 4, 2015, during all the hours that Beau was lying in state in the Senate Chambers, Vice President Biden, his wife Jill and members of the Biden family greeted every one of the hundreds who passed that flag covered casket. It was a sad day and tremendous loss to Delaware. Beau Biden was a remarkable young man who cared deeply about family and about the people of the State of Delaware. His friendship to the Delaware Fire Service was significant and memorable. He was a great young man who will be truly missed! - Submitted by Warren Jones, photos by Wally Poppe and Gene Shaner
Firefighters debark buses at Legislative Hall.
Citizens Hose Company fire apparatus and members salute the precession as it passes through Smyrna. Beau Biden was also an honorary member of Citizens Hose.
August 2015
Gazebo Fire in Camden
On June 6, 2015, an alert Camden PD officer noticed a column of smoke during a traffic stop. Upon investigation, he found an 8 x 8 gazebo fully involved. Assistant Chief Andino and Engine 413 made the response. The crew from E413 made a quick knockdown of the fire and the fire marshal was notified to investigate. - DFSN photo courtesy Robin Andino
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 9
Bethany Bch. Assists Millville
On June 2, 2015, Station 70 was dispatched to assist Station 84 (Millville) with a house fire on Katie Street in Ocean View. Assistant Chief Tom Moore responded with 70-8 and arrived to find a two-story home with fire already showing through the roof. Tower 70 set up on side A and attempted an initial search, but was quickly driven out by high heat conditions. Quint 70-4 established a water supply to Tower 70 and a master stream operation was begun. Rescue 70, B-70 and Traffic Control 70 also assisted on the scene. - DFSN photo courtesy of Joseph P. Hopple; PIO, BBVFC
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Aetna at Todd Estates Blaze
On June 25, 2015, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder, along with mutual aid units, were dispatched to Elderfield Road in the Todd Estates development of Newark for a working residential fire. Deputy Chief 10 (Duncan) arrived on scene reporting smoke showing from the second floor. Crews from Aetna and the Christiana Fire Company arrived simultaneously and deployed two handlines to control the fire. Two people were transported to CER with smoke inhalation; one dog succumbed to the fire. Deputy 10 had Newark Command and the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office handling the investigation. Companies responding: Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company, Christiana Fire Company, Minquas Fire Company, Five Points Fire Company, NCCEMS, DSFMO. - DFSN photo by David Wayne Wilson
Pump House Fire On May 19, 2015, Hartly volunteers, along with Marydel Station 56, were alerted for a small building fire. Upon arrival, command found a small pump house on fire in between two chicken houses. Engine 51-3 arrived and placed two handlines in service, one to attack the fire and the second to keep a fuel tank in the rear of the building cool. Once power was secured to the building, crews completed the overhaul operation and turned the scene over to the owner. - DFSN story and photo by Josh Norris
Clayton Blaze
A recent mobile home fire in Clayton. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Hockessin Assists PA Departments
On June 12, 2015, Hockessin sent Tanker 19 and Tower 19 to assist Avondale Fire Company (PA) on a residential fire in the Somerset Lake development. The tanker’s crew worked with Avondale personnel on the initial push while the tower’s crew ventilated the house along with a crew from West Grove Fire Company’s (PA) Ladder 22. - Submitted by Mark Felicetti
Garage Fire in Laurel On March 29, 2015, the Laurel, Delmar and Gumboro Fire Departments were dispatched for a garage fire near Laurel. First arriving Assistant Chief Morris found a four-bay garage with heavy smoke showing. Crews made an aggressive interior attack but the garage sustained heavy damage. Crews were on the scene for approximately an hour. - Fire News photo by Dwayne Chaffinch
Bethany Beach Grill Fire On June 13, 2015, Quint 70-5, Tower 70, A-70, 70-8 responded to 728 Half Moon Drive Bethany Beach for a grill fire with exposure to a house. Chief Brian Martin arrived with 70-8 and directed Quint 70-5 to stretch an attack line and attack the fire at the rear of the structure. The fire was brought quickly under control with no injuries and no damage to the structure. - DFSN photo by Joe Hopple, PIO BBVFC
August 2015
Car Fire in Millsboro
On June 21, 2015, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle fire on School Lane between Steele Drive and Bay Farm Road. Units from Indian River included Tanker 80 from the Oak Orchard facility and Engine #80-3 from the Long Neck facility, as well as the Delaware State Fire Police. - Story and photo provided by Indian River FD
Rehoboth Boat Fire
On May 10, 2015, Rehoboth Beach units responded to a boat fire at the Indian River Inlet Marina. Upon arrival crews found a fire, which had started in the boat’s electrical system. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Car Fire Snuffed
Rehoboth Beach firefighters responded to a SUV on fire at the Bayside Outlets on Coastal Highway on May 17, 2015. Arriving crews found the vehicle with a engine compartment well involved in fire. Firefighters had the incident under control in about 15 minutes. The vehicle sustained heavy damage. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Vehicle Fire on the Beach On the late morning of May 30, 2015, Station 70 was dispatched to the drive-on beach of the Delaware Seashore State Park south of South Bethany for a reported vehicle fire. Assistant Chief Tom Moore responded with 70-8 and arrived to find an SUV well involved near the drive-on entrance. An additional brush unit was requested from Station 84. Brush 70 and Utility 70-11 responded and attacked the fire. C-70 and Quint 70-4 established a fill site on Coastal Highway and Brush 84 shuttled water to the scene. The fire was brought quickly under control and the scene was turned over to DENREC for investigation. - DFSN photo courtesy Bethany Beach VFC
Laurel Assists Vienna at Marsh Fire On April 6, 2015, the Laurel Fire Department was alerted to assist the Vienna Fire Company with a marsh fire. Several companies battled this fire for approximately three hours to bring it under control. - Fire News photo by Dwayne Chaffinch
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
CHC Extinguishes Car Fire
CHC responded to an automobile fire on Route 1 at exit 119 on June 17, 2015. - DFSN photo by Curt Gruber, CHC photographer
August 2015
Carlisle Assists Ellendale
On June 13, 2015, the Carlisle Fire Company was dispatched to assist the Ellendale Fire Company with a large wheat field fire in the 9000 block of Clendaniel Pond Road. Engine 42-4, previously on a community event in the district, responded with Assistant Chief Brennon Fountain (42-18). Engine 42-4 arrived and immediately took placement in the field as the crew began an aggressive attack protecting a structure that was threatened. Brush 42, Tanker 42, and Engine 42-5 arrived and assisted where needed by the Ellendale units. Carlisle units responding: Engine 42-4, Brush 42, Tanker 42, Engine 42-5, Engine 42-3, Utility 42-10, 42 Fire Police. - DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles; Carlisle PIO
August 2015
Stuck Tree Trimmer
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
From Cadets to Black Hats
Hartly’s Cadet Firefighters Steven Connors and Dylan Miller put the past two years of training to work for their qualifying on June 6, 2015. In order for members to become interior or “Black Hat” firefighters, they must complete a strict training program. Cadets Connors and Miller worked multiple scenarios to demonstrate their skills. At the end of the day, the two joined the ranks Black Hat Firefighters. Congratulations. Special thanks to Crew Leader Read, DSFS Instructor Robbie Brode and, as always, the instructor aides. On May 28, 2015, Camden-Wyoming Fire Company Tower Ladder 41 was alerted for a male stuck approximately 35 feet up in a boom lift. Tower 41 arrived and was able to move the subject safely to the ground. - DFSN photo courtesy Robin Andino
- Submitted by Josh Norris
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
Bethany Beach in Training
August 2015
On June 22, 2015, the Bethany Beach great drill as the summer season starts to Volunteer Fire Company held its June move into full swing after the Fourth of drill on ocean rescue. Marine 70, Gator July. - DFSN photo by FF Bryan Ree; 70, PWCs and rescue swimmers all submitted by Joe Hopple PIO BBVFC drilled operations for surf rescues. A
Bethany Beach VFC Duty crews drilling on forcible entry on May 30, 2015. - DFSN photo by Tom Moore
The duty crew doing ladder training on June 13, 2015, at BBVFC Headquarters. - DFSN photo by Joe Hopple PIO
Wilmington Haz-Mat Drill
Recently, the Wilmington Fire Department held their 2015 Hazmat accident accompanied with a hazardous material leak. Refresher course. The exercise was a simulation of a motor vehicle - DFSN photo courtesy of James. R. Jobes; PIO
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
Low Angle Rescue Training
Squad Companies 1 and 3, and Ladder 1 drilled on a response to a reported injured subject over an embankment scenario. A mannequin was staged as an injured person down the embankment at Rockford Park challenging the SOC companies to make a safe and timely rescue. - DFSN photos courtesy of James. R. Jobes, PIO
August 2015
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 21
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Violent Encounters Seminar Thirteen students from across the state participated in an Escaping Violent Encounters for Fire & EMS Providers seminar. The class was instructed by DT4EMS founder, Kip Tietsort. Students learned the importance of surviving mentally and physically in the media and in the courtroom. Providers were also reminded that it is not okay to be assaulted on the job verbally, physically, or sexually; and
if it occurs to report it to police and supervision. Five students remained in class to become instructors of the program. We look forward to offering this program more frequently in 2016. For more information on the class, please contact Senior Instructor Matthew Gajdos. - DFSN photo courtesy of Michael Lowe; DSFS
Women in ES Seminar
On June 14, 2015, the Fire School presented a Women in Emergency Services seminar attended by 20 women. An open forum with a panel of female fire and EMS workers discussed their beginnings and lives in the service. Several topics generated an enlightening discussion, as well. Cindy Ell a retired Firefighter/Paramedic and President of International Firefighter Cancer Foundation, spoke on cancers affecting women and dealing with that. Also speaking was George Dobbins, a strength and performance coach, who explained programs designed to increase overall fitness and upper body strength. Overall, the participants enjoyed themselves and even the panelists took something away from the program. - DFSN photos courtesy of Michael Lowe; DSFS
DSFS Gets State Grant Members of the Delaware Fire Service, the press, and all three of Delaware’s Congressional Representatives came to the Delaware State Fire School recently to announce the awarding of a large federal grant. The money will be used to purchase a fire engine for the school as well as a car fire prop and some EMS training equipment. Senator Carper, Senator Coons and Congressman Carney gave some brief remarks and attended a live fire demonstration held by Cheswold, Dover and Leipsic firefighters. Thanks to all who attended.
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Aetna Responds to MVC
Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder responded to an MVC on East Chestnut Hill Road and Augusta Drive on June 13, 2015. - DFSN photo by David Wayne Wilson
Carlisle Assists Slaughter Beach with MVC On May 25, 2015, the Carlisle Fire Company was dispatched to assist the Memorial Fire Company Station 89 (Slaughter Beach) on an MVC with a reported overturn. Rescue 42 and Engine 42-5 responded with crews who assisted with extrication. - DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles; Carlisle PIO
Fatal MVC Early on May 11, 2015, Hartly’s volunteers were alerted with KM6 and Trooper 4 for a MVC with subject reported trapped on Sudlersville Road in the area of Owls Nest Road. Kent Center advised units responding of a single vehicle with one patient unconscious in it. Command arrived to find a single SUV head-on into a tree. Command confirmed a Priority 1 patient trapped. Crew from 51-3 stabilized and began the extrication. Crews from Rescue 51-6 assisted with the efforts. The person was extricated in nine minutes and turned over to EMS. ALS pronounced the patient on scene. A second patient was transported to KGH with minor injuries. Assistant Chief Norris had command. - DFSN story and photo by Josh Norris
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
Horse vs. Car MVC
Rollover with Entrapment
On June 19, 2015, Station 45 and Ambulance 64 were dispatched for an MVC, car versus horse. The horse was located in a field nearby. - DFSN photo by Mike Carroll
On June 20, 2015, the Camden-Wyoming Fire Company was alerted for a single-vehicle rollover with entrapment. Captain Wothers arrived shortly after dispatch and confirmed the report with one person trapped. Upon the arrival of Rescue 41, hydraulic tools were placed in service to free the Priority 1 patient. Crews worked for approximately eight minutes. Once free, ALS stabilized the person who was transported by DSP Aviation to Christiana Hospital. - DFSN photo courtesy Robin Andino
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
NCC*EMS
St. Georges Tech Thanks NCC EMS On May 8, 2015, students from the St. Georges Technical High School EMS program visited the Department of Public Safety to offer their appreciation for the support they had received from the New Castle County Paramedics. Select students from the high school program participate in scheduled “ride-along” rotations as a part of their EMS studies. The students presented a plaque to the EMS Division as a token of appreciation for their support. (Left to right): Paramedic 1/C Richard Orkis, Assistant Chief Mark Allston, St. Georges Technical High School EMS Instructor Jennifer Immediato with students Christina Havens, Jazlyn Washington, Shauna Killen, Chief Lawrence Tan, Paramedic 1/C Laura DiRusso and Paramedic Candidate DarRon Harmon. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Paramedics Cover DE Marathon The New Castle County Paramedics; Wilmington Fire Department; St. Francis Hospital EMS; Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company; and University of Delaware Emergency Care Unit provided EMS coverage to the Delaware Marathon on May 10, 2015. The event had over 3,100 participants in a full marathon, half marathon and relay race. The event is conducted throughout the City of Wilmington with the start/finish being located at the Riverfront Park area. The medical coverage of the annual event includes Gator-based EMS response teams, several BLS ambulances, paramedic units with BLS and ALS bicycle teams. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Paramedics Cover University of Delaware Graduation (Left to right): New Castle County Paramedic 1/C Scott Sizer, Paramedic 1/C Leah Hojnicki, P/Cpl. Christopher Reed and P/Cpl. David McKinney supported the EMS coverage of the University of Delaware Commencement and Graduation Exercises on May 30, 2015. The EMS Division “MEDCOM” vehicle served as the field EMS command post for EMS operations at the event, which included several basic life support ambulances, EMS bike teams and foot patrols. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27
NCC*EMS
Paramedics Recognized at Awards Ceremony
(Above, left to right): Lt. Mark Logemann, P/Cpl. Isaac Hankins, Lt. Martha Russ, P/Cpl. Lee Morris, P/Cpl. Brian Warrick and Paramedic Candidate Mary Pizzadili were recognized for their contributions to the response to the September 2014 multi-casualty incident involving an overturned tour bus. Forty-nine patients were transported to five area facilities in slightly over an hour, with one patient being pronounced at the scene.
Thirty-three members of the New Castle County Paramedics were recognized at a awards ceremony hosted by the New Castle County Department of Public Safety on April 15, 2015. The event recognized department members for significant accomplishments and performance during the second half of 2014. Many of the Emergency Medical Services Division honorees were cited for their response to the September 21st multi-casualty incident involving an overturned tour bus in New Castle. Emergency Medical Services Division personnel recognized during the ceremony included: Captain Mark P. Allston; Paramedic Corporal Paul G. Bazzoli; Paramedic Thomas Castiglione; Paramedic Corporal Kevin C. Cowperthwait; Senior Lieutenant Joseph J. Dudley; Paramedic First Class Jessica A. Duncan; Paramedic Sergeant Kenneth N. Dunn; Paramedic Bryan H. Florian; Lieutenant Dawn E. Gulezian;
Paramedic Jessica M. Gurgick; Paramedic Corporal Abigail E. Haas; Paramedic Corporal Isaac J. Hankins; Paramedic First Class Laura E. Hill; Paramedic Scott Kier; Paramedic Corporal Ruoy L. Koontz; Paramedic Corporal David L. Lawrence; Lieutenant Mark R. Logemann; Paramedic Corporal Richard Moerman, Jr.; Paramedic Corporal Donald L. Morris; Paramedic Corporal Thomas J. Murphy; Paramedic Patrick M. O'Boyle; Paramedic Corporal Daniel J. Panaro; EMS Operations Support; Specialist Kenneth R. Phibbs; Paramedic Candidate Mary A. Pizzadili; Lieutenant Martha L. Russ; Paramedic Yvonne T. Russell; Paramedic Julianne F. Santora; Paramedic First Class Allen C. Short; Paramedic First Class Scott E. Sizer; Paramedic Robert J. Tomchak, Jr.; Paramedic Corporal Brian J. Warrick; Paramedic Corporal Lorraine K. Williams; and Paramedic Corporal Matthew W. Watson. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
NCCo EMS Recognizes Leadership Academy Graduates Two members of the Emergency Medical Services Division staff were recognized for their successful completion of the West Point Command and Leadership Academy. Senior Lieutenant Joseph J. Dudley and Lieutenant Christopher A. Johnson were recognized at the Forth-Seventh Graduation Ceremony hosted by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police on May 21, 2015 at the National Conference Center in East Windsor, New Jersey. The 13-week curriculum was developed through collaboration between the United States Military Academy at West Point and the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police. The program is conducted at three training sites: two in New Jersey and one in New Castle County, Delaware. The New Castle County site has included students from the County Division of Police, Emergency Communications Division, Emergency Medical Services Division and fire service. Lieutenant Christopher Johnson was the first non-law enforcement graduate to receive the Chief Harry Wilde Academic Achievement Award as the “top graduate� from his cohort. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
2015 Eastern Division Conference
(Left to right): Executive Director Jon Townley (DE); Director Terry Jester (DE); 1st Vice-President Bill Betts (DE); past-President/Director John Holcombe (NJ); Director Jim Yates (NJ); Director Frank Hand (PA); President Paul Whorrall (NY); 2nd Vice-President Paul Sterling (MD). The 2015 Eastern Division Conference was held from June 17 to Jun 20, 2015, at the Turning Stone Casino with the cooperation of the New York State Chiefs Conference. IAFC President Keith Bryant presented updates to the attendees, and a motion was passed to accept the new bylaws (special thanks to past-President Larry Vaughan for his work on the bylaws). IAFC Executive Director Mark Light and City of Baltimore Chief Niles Ford also addressed the group. Past-President James Seavey asked that EDIAFC support the Cancer Initiative. - DFSN photos courtesy Terry Jester
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29
Sussex County Fire Departments Participate in Safe Kids Day
The Sussex County Coalition of Safe Kids conducted its annual Safe Kids Day on June 20, 2015, at the Lowe’s Home Improvement Center, in Lewes, Delaware. This has become one of the premier safety events held within the State of Delaware. Safe Kids members, along with the staff of Lowe’s, worked for months planning the event. Lowe’s corporate offices took notice of the event recently and used the event as a model for all stores across North America for the public relations efforts. It was estimated that nearly 800 people attended the this year’s event. Displays and interactive activities
were in place by over 40 vendors. The Delaware State Fire Marshal, Delaware State Fire School, as well at the Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Indian River and Bethany Beach Fire Companies all participated in a fun day with the children. - DFSN photos courtesy of Michael Lowe; DSFS, Cortney Koschoff, Chuck Snyder
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Rehoboth Beach Dedicates New Station 2
On May 16, 2015, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company Highway. The new station replaces the old Station 2, which had dedicated their new Fire Station 2. The dedication ceremony was been in service since 1985. - Submitted by Warren Jones, attended by numerous public officials and neighboring fire compaDFSN photos by Chuck Snyder nies. The new station is located on Airport Road just off of Coastal
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
On May 1, 2015, the Camden-Wyoming Fire Company placed Tower 41 in service. It is the first aerial apparatus the CWFC has owned since the late 80s. Tower 41 is a 2004 Pierce mid-mount aerial platform. The truck was purchased from the Fairfax County (VA) Fire Department through a surplus auction in October 2014.
August 2015
Tower 41 Goes in Service
In the time from October to May the truck was being serviced, painted and equipped, and members trained with the truck. A little over 12 hours after being placed in service, Tower 41 was alerted for its first working fire in Station 55s local. - DFSN photo courtesy Robin Andino
Huegel Named Sussex Co. EMT of the Year On June 5, 2015, Sussex County held their annual Emergency Services Banquet at the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company. During the awards ceremony the Sussex County Ambulance Association presented Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company EMT John Huegel with the 2014 EMT of the Year award. John is the most active volunteer EMT and also serves the department on the board of directors as our Assistant Treasurer. The officers and members of the BBVFC are very proud of John and congratulate him on this county award. - DFSN photo by Joe Hopple, PIO
Carlisle Recruitment Day and BBQ On May 16, 2015, members of Carlisle Fire Company who participated in the statewide Delaware Fire Service Recruitment Day also took the time to prepare a chicken BBQ, which was an instant success and sold out within a couple hours of opening. Thank you again to all those who came out to support us. - DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles; Carlisle PIO
August 2015
Mill Creek at PA Parade
Independence Day in Philadelphia kicked-off with a series of inspirational events in an historic Philadelphia celebration of freedom and independence, featuring thousands of participants from around the country. The Philadelphia Independence Day Parade featured dozens of floats, marching bands, antique cars and a special appearance from Miss America 2015. More than 6,000 participants began at Independence Hall and wound their way through Philadelphia's most historic streets. - DFSN photos by Josephina Whiteman and Frank Whiteman, Jr.; submitted by Jim Woznicki
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33
Claymont Firefighters attend Fallen Troopers Line of Duty Death Ceremony
The Delaware State Police are proud to honor Trooper First Class Harold B. Rupert during this Line of dDty Death ceremony. TFC Rupert, in his sixth year as a Trooper, tragically lost his life in a vehicle crash during a high speed pursuit on April 19, 1962. Seated in the passenger seat of his patrol car, he and his partner were attempting to apprehend a fleeing criminal when the collision occurred. At the age of 34, TFC Rupert left behind his wife, Abigail, and four daughters; ages 10, 9, 4 and 1. His fifth daughter was born the following December. Above are Delaware State Police Troopers and Firefighters from the Claymont Fire Company Station #13. The ceremony was held at the Crash Site: 750 West 10th Street, Marcus Hook, PA 19061. - Submitted by Jim Woznicki
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Antique Corner
By Bob Romig
I found a rig that I think I missed in doing all my articles and that would be one of the two antique motorized pieces that the Millsboro Fire Company has in their museum. This rig is a 1942 Ford that was assembled by the US Fire Apparatus Company in Wilmington, DE. It carries serial # 529789 and has a 500-gpm rotary gear pump; and carried 800 gallons of water. Norman Batchelor said this engine was one of the last two fire engines built by USFAC for civilian service at the beginning of WWII. On June 9, 1942, Mr. W. P. Monroe gave a report that the fire company had been given a priority number of A-8 and that he had sent it back to Washington for the Production Board. On July 1, 1942, the purchasing committee, consisting of Hugh Davis, J.A. Cordrey, and W.P. Monroe, voted to accept the new engine. If there are departments in the state that feel that I missed doing an article on their rig, please feel free to contact me and I will see if I have your photo and info sheet. Contact info: bobrfire17@aol.com or 863-427-4717.
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig Two true Pioneers for the Delaware Fire Service from Kent County are my good friends Barbara and J. Allen Metheny, Sr., from Hartly Fire Company. This husband and wife team has been very active members of the fire company and have been active in all aspects of the fire service, not only with the HVFC, but county and state fire service organizations. J. Allen graduated from Dover High School in 1963 and went on to attend Goldey Beacom College and received an A.A. degree. He also served with the Delaware National Guard. In addition to his high school and college experiences, Allen has also completed and obtained over 1500 hours of training in fire, EMS and administrative classes. Allen joined the HVFC in 1962 at the not-so-ripe age of 17. He says he joined the fire department to follow a family tradition that was instilled in him by his mother, father, grandfather and uncle (something that is very common throughout the state of Delaware), to help the community and for the excitement! Allen has held most all fire line offices to include Chief and has served as President for 21 years. He has served on every new apparatus committee since joining with the exception of one brush truck. While with the Hartly Fire Company, Allen still had enough time to be employed by the state as an auditor for 31 years. After retiring he was employed as Emergency Manager for Kent County Public Safety for over eight years. Allen’s involvement not only included his 50+ years of service to the HVFC, but he is also past-President of the Kent County F.A.; Kent County Fire Chief and has been Treasurer of the DVFA since 1981 with the exception of three years prior to being elected President of the DVFA for 1994-1995. I believe that his background as a State Auditor was a stepping stone to being treasurer of the DVFA. He is also Delaware’s delegate to the National Volunteer Fire Council serving as Secretary/Treasurer for the past 12 years.
This position puts Delaware in the limelight by having a good person like Allen representing us and also serving as an officer. Allen has also been very active in the Delmarva Firemen’s Association serving as their President. Allen and Barbara are still actively involved in this organization, attending the yearly conventions held throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. I guess Barbara’s honey-do list is complete, because Allen continues to serve on National and State committees. He is currently Chairman of DEMA’s Homeland Security
Funding subcommittee, responsible for the distribution of the state’s funding to all affiliated agencies authorized. Along with this title, Allen is also involved in other Homeland Security related committees. Again, this year, Allen was appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate to serve on the State 911 Emergency Services board. Of course, being a firehouse family, his wife Barbara has also been very active with the Hartly Ladies Auxiliary. After joining in 1969, she has held the offices of President, Vice President and Secretary. Barbara has also been an active member of the Delmarva VFA Ladies Auxiliary, having served as Assistant Secretary.
Barbara’s mom and mother-in-law were a couple of the influential people who encouraged her to join. Her mom was Secretary of the Magnolia Ladies Auxiliary, so that encouraged Barbara to join Hartly. Barbara was employed by the state in the data entry field. Oh, and did I mention that their daughter, Tara, whom I had the privilege of knowing,also served as President of the Ladies Auxiliary and is currently serving as Secretary of the fire company? In 2001 J. Allen almost lost his lovely wife. While Barbara was leaving the fire station one evening she had a cerebral hemorrhage and didn't make it out of the parking lot. She was taken to the Kent General Hospital by the Kent County Medics and was then flown to the Christiana Medical Center by DSP medics. She does not remember coming out the coma but was later transferred to the Bryn Mawr Rehab Center in Pennsylvania. Several months after her stay at the rehab center, Allen took her back to visit, but she did not remember being there. One thing she did remember was a voice she heard in the hallway and she saw her male nurse who had worked with her during rehabilitation. Sure, Barb, you would remember him! Barb gives thanks every day to God for the Hartly ambulance crew and KC Medics who transported her to KGH, the DSP Aviation crew who flew her to the CMC and to the flight nurse who was with her. Barbara, we sure are glad that you are still here with us. I have many fond memories of being with the Methenys at the Delmarva conventions that I attended. Once again, Delaware is fortunate to have a family tradition carried on in our great fire service of the State of Delaware. Barbara and J. Allen, thank you both for all you have done for the fire service in Delaware and nationally and we are proud to have you two as members of the best fire service in the country. God bless you both and your families.
August 2015
Clayton April Member of the Month
During the regular company meeting on May 12, 2015, President Faulkner named Assistant Chief Alex Carrow as Member of the Month for April 2015. During the month of April, Chief Carrow attended the following; nine out of 16 calls, two miscellaneous events, two in-service drills, one uniform function and the company meeting. He accumulated 19 points for the month of April and has a total of 121 points for the point year 2015. The membership would like to congratulate Chief Carrow on his award. - DFSN photo by Kevin L. Wilson
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
Clayton Scholarship Award Winner
Alexis Williams, the daughter of Clayton Company members Noah and Tammi Williams, was awarded the Linda Lightcap Memorial Scholarship at the May company meeting. Alexis was presented a check for $1,000 as this year’s winner. Alexis graduated from Smyrna High School and will attend Delaware Tech’s nursing program. The Linda Lightcap scholarship is named after a Clayton Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary member who died suddenly several years ago. Linda was the wife of Clayton past-President Robert L. Lightcap, and the mother of past-Chief Jeff Lightcap. Linda’s daughter, Sharon, is also an active member of the Clayton Ladies. Congratulation to Alexis, and good luck from the members. - DFSN photo by Kevin L. Wilson
Clayton May Member of the Month
During the regular monthly meeting of the Clayton Fire Company, Junior Member David J. ‘DJ’ Correll was named Member of the Month for May 2015. During the month of May, DJ attended the following; 10 out of 22 alarms, three miscellaneous events, three drills, a uniform event and the company meeting, for a total of 23 point for the month of May and 150 points for the year. The officers and members would like to congratulate DJ on his award. - DFSN photo Mike Carroll
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Obituary
Final Alarm of Frankford’s John E. “Jack” Bare President Emeritus - Frankford Volunteer Fire Company
John E. “Jack” Bare, 79, of Frankford, Delaware, passed away peacefully at his home on April 23, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. Jack was born February 20, 1936, in Washington, DC, the son of the late James and Iva (Gordy) Bare. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Lloyd Wakefield, Charles Bare and Joe Burt and a sister, Bernadine King. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Phyllis (Smith) Bare; two sons, John E. Bare, Jr., and Lloyd A. Bare; his brothers, Sam, Donald, Fred, Leo and Jesse Bare; five grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and 20 nieces and nephews. Jack’s funeral service and final alarm were held on April 26, 2015, at the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company where Jack dedicated more than 55 years of his life in service to his community. Serving others is how Jack chose to spend his life and few can compare their service record to that of Jack Bare who served his community, county, state and country with unwavering dedication and commitment. Before and during his tenure with the fire service, Jack served his country for 44 years as a mechanic with the Delaware Army National Guard where he amassed the following awards: Army Commendation Medal (twice); Service In Aid to Civil Authority Medal (twice); The Conspicuous Service Cross; The Army National Guard Recruiter Plaque; and The Medal for Military Merit.
Jack joined the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company in October 1958 and until recently was always one of our most active members. His service went beyond simply riding fire trucks or serving as a Fire Police Officer. Jack was a perpetual leader and leadership roles always seemed to find him. During his tenure with the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company Jack was President for 14 years; Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer; Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, Chief Engineer, and Assistant Engineer; and Fire Police Captain for six years and Fire Police Officer for 17 years. Jack’s service was not limited to his local community. He was President of the Sussex County Firefighters Association in 1977/78, President of the Sussex County Fire Chief's Association and President of the Sussex County Fire Police Association. Each of these roles requires more than a single year of service. Leading up to the year as President, Jack served each association as the 2nd Vice-President, 1st Vice-President, and, after serving as President, another year as a Director. Jack’s dedication and commitment to the Delaware State Fire Service was just as impressive. He was President of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association in 1981, President of the Delaware State Fire Police Association in 2008, and was appointed Commissioner on the State Fire Commission in 1982. As with the county associations, each of these offices also required additional years of service as 2nd Vice-President and 1st VicePresident.
In 2004 Jack began his rotation through the Delmarva Volunteer Firefighters Association where he served as 2nd Vice-President, 1st VicePresident and was appointed President in 2006. For his lifetime of service to the Delaware Fire Service, John “Jack” Bare was inducted into the Delaware Firefighter’s Hall of Fame and recognized as the State Fire Police Officer of the Year in 2008. For his service to our company, which included 14 years as President, for his service as President of the Sussex County Firefighters Association, President of the Sussex County Fire Chief's Association, President of the Sussex County Fire Police Association, President of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association, President of the Delaware State Fire Police Association, President of the Delmarva Volunteer Firefighters Association, and Commissioner of the Delaware State Fire Commission, the membership was honored in 2014 to recognize John “Jack” Bare as “President Emeritus” of the Frankford Volunteer Fire Company, the first in its history. Jack has set the bar so high that it would be hard to imagine anyone ever matching it. Jack’s dedication and leadership has left a legacy for us all and he will surely be missed throughout the Delaware State Fire Service. Rest in peace Jack, and may God grant comfort and peace to your family. - DFSN photos by Patrick Quigley and Barbara Rich Dornenburg
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
Official Truck Housing Ceremony
On June 20, 2015, the Greenwood Fire Company had its official truck housing ceremony for Quint 78. This event was well attended and state and county tributes were presented, as this truck is Greenwood’s first ladder truck. - DFSN photos courtesy of DC Mark Anderson; Greenwood FC
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
CVVFA By Claudia Garner 114th Annual Convention Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Wednesday July 29 to Saturday August 1, 2015 All Events Held at Delaware City Fire Company #1 (unless noted) 815 5th Street, Delaware City DE 19706 Wednesday July 29 1800 1900
Registration opens Audit Committee Meeting Board of Directors Meeting Open House Meet the Masters-Grab a cool drink and swap stories with Dr. Harry Carter
Thursday July 30 0900 1030 1100 1200 1300
1630 1830 1900
Convention called to order by President Walter Robertson Opening Ceremonies Convention Business Recess Annual Memorial Service St. Paul's Catholic Church 209 Washington Street Lunch at the Delaware City Fire Hall Convention reconvenes Keynote Speaker Chief Allen Baldwin Winchester VA Fire Department Zero Pac Cold Storage Warehouse Fire Business Continues Target Adjournment BBQ at the Fire House Fire Boat and Rescue Demonstration at Delaware City Waterfront
Apparatus and Equipment are on display in the engine bay and rear apron Thursday and Friday
Friday July 31 0900
1200 1300
1830
Call to order Dual Track • Presidents Council Meeting featuring Residential Fire Sprinkler Summit with Tim Travers of the NFPA and Jim Dalton from the National Sprinkler Association • Protecting Your Fire Department's Reputation-Candice McDonald Lunch for all attendees Dual Track • Presidents Council Reconvenes • Special Youth in the Fire Service Roundtable with Dr. Denis Onieal Deputy Administrator United States Fire Administrator Business Continues Annual Awards Banquet and Installation of OfficersDr. Onieal Guest Speaker Please wear your uniform
Saturday August 1 0745 0900 1300
Annual Prayer Breakfast Friendly’s Restaurant adjacent to Red Roof Inn Newark Pre Judging of Apparatus Parade steps off followed by refreshments and awarding of prizes at Fire House
Find Out How to Prevent Member Derailment and Department Embarrassment Delaware City, July 31 What strategies does your fire department have in place to prevent member derailment and embarrassment stemming from poor member behavior? Like preparing for emergencies, organizations need to train to prevent and manage unexpected reputational threats. The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Fireman’s Association is extending an open invitation to all members of the fire service to learn strategies to safeguard the firehouse from damaging behaviors.
Topics to be covered include social media, theft, discrimination, and poor member behavior. Join us in Delaware City on July 31st, from 0900 to 1130 for this FREE course! This course is being offered at no charge through a partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council Foundation. For more information, please contact Candice McDonald at mycdevelopment@gmail.com
Application for Individual Membership Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association www.cvvfa.org NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY: _________________________________________________________ STATE_________ ZIP___________________ HOME PHONE (____) ___________________ CELL (____) ____________________ FAX (____) _______________ EMAIL______________________ DATE OF BIRTH ______/________/__________ Mail Checks Payable to CVVFA
PUBLIC SAFETY OR OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL AFFILIATION ________________________________________________________ Mail to: Financial Secretary Stephen C. McBee (fire, law enforcement, EMS, towing, DOT, industry, etc.) 69 N. Washington Street Dues $5 per year X______ years = $_______________ enclosed
Berkeley Springs, WV 25411 304 261 0505 Cell • 304 258 2403 Work Email – steve@arndt-mcbee.com
August 2015
Aetna Presented with 6 Animal Oxygen Mask Kits
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 39
ANNOUNCEMENTS LADVFA FUNDRAISER The State Ladies Auxiliary has just completed its new cookbook with 778 recipes. The LADVFA is selling the cookbooks for $20 each If interested please see a ladies auxiliary member of your fire company or contact: Saralee Stevens at 302-436-8374 (leave a message).
HOUSTON ANNUAL FIRE PREVENTION DAY At a ceremony held at Fire Station 7, employees of a Newark based web company, Hosting.com, gave the fire department the animal oxygen kits. Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Captain Jeff Sands accepted the donation from Channin Ciancio, who works in Hosting.com’s finance department. Ciancio spearheaded a fund drive effort in her company to purchase the oxygen kits for the fire department. The presentation to the fire department was made on June 26, 2015, which was National Take Your Dog to Work Day. Several Aetna firefighters attended the ceremony with their dogs. Several times a year Aetna is faced with pets in distress after being rescued from house fires. In the past, Firefighter/EMTs have improvised by using oxygen delivery devices meant for humans. The pet oxygen delivery kits donated each have three sizes of oxygen masks specifically designed to fit different size dogs or cats. These animal life saving kits will be carried on each of Aetna’s six ambulances. Thanks to the donation from Hosting.com, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder is now better equipped to help pets suffering smoke inhalation from house fires. - Submitted by John H. Farrell IV, Newark Post photo by Josh Shannon
The Houston Volunteer Fire Company will hold its annual Fire Prevention Day on August 8, 2015, from 1000 to 1400. The event will be held at 157 Broad Street in Houston. Activities will include a parade, Bucket Brigade competition, Extraction Drill and presentations by the Kent County SPCA, the Delaware State Police and more. There will be free hot dogs, soda, popcorn and snocones. Departments wishing to compete in the Bucket Brigade Competition can call John Thorpe at 302-531-7409 for registration information. Departments wishing to participate in the parade can contact Mike at 302-519-7770. The parade will start at Milford-Harrington Highway at 1000 (line-up starts at 0930) and food and beverages will be provided.
THE DVFA FOUNDATION HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 2015 DELAWARE STATE EMPLOYEES’ CHARITABLE CAMPAIGN The DVFA Foundation is pleased to announce that we have been selected to participate in the 2015 Delaware State Employees’ Charitable Campaign (SECC). The SECC is an annual fund-raising drive in which, each year, state employees raise funds through fundraising and donations to benefit many local non-profit charitable organizations. Contributions received from state employees will be used to support the DVFA Scholarship Program. Each year, approximately 40 competitive scholarships for higher education are awarded to members of the Delaware Fire Service and their family members. DVFA scholarships normally range from $500 to $2500 per semester. If you are a state employee, please consider your donation be directed to the DVFA Foundation to support the scholarship program. We also ask that fire service members share this great opportunity with family and friends who are state employees.
PRIDE AND POLISH APPARATUS SHOW Saturday, August 8th, 2015 as part of the Keystone Fire Fighters Conference to be held at the Greater Philadelphia Convention Center, 100 Station Ave, Oaks Pa. Get the hoses out, find the Armor all and the wax because it's time to get those antique apparatus, modern apparatus and yes even Motorcycles cleaned up for our show. We are offering over $2500 in cash prizes for antiques and over $1000 for modern apparatus, in addition to a unique plaque given to all class winners. We will have about 15 or 18 select apparatus on display inside the exhibit hall on Friday, Saturday and Sunday along with the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum exhibit. There will be lots of vendors in Hall A as well. Please visit our website: www.keystonefirefighterconference.com or contact Bob Romig at bobrfire17@aol.com for more info and to register your rigs. Come on out and join in the show. We sure would like to have as many rigs as possible from around the area and out of state at our show.
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
Obituary
Bethany Beach’s Charles Young Fire Police Officer Charles ‘Chuck’A. Young, age 71, of Bethany Beach — formerly of Wilmington -— passed away on June 4, 2015, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes. Chuck was born in Philadelphia on December 18, 1943, and was raised in Drexel Hill, (PA), son of the late Leland F. and Virginia H. (Mann) Young. He graduated from Bonner High school in 1961 and attended Temple University. Chuck loved sports and played both football and baseball. He also proudly served his country from 1963 to 1965 in the US Army in the Counter Intelligence Corps in Orleans, France. After his discharge from the Army, he worked as a sales engineer with Mine Safety Appliances. In 1982 he married Diane M. Young and they spent 28 years together until her passing in 2009. Chuck started his own property management company and owned and managed a number of small apartment buildings in the Wilmington area. He was a co-founder of the Greater Wilmington Housing Providers, an association of property managers. Since 1969, he has been a volunteer firefighter and EMT with Talleyville Fire Company and currently with Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company (BBVFC), where he holds the position of Fire Police Officer. Through the years, he held several fire and administration offices in the fire company. In 1993, he built a home in Bethany Beach and retired full time in 2005. Chuck enjoyed working with his neighbors on several committees and also served on the Board of Directors of the Salt Pond Community in Bethany Beach. In the past few years he has been blessed to have his faithful companion, Mary Putschky by his side. He is also survived by two nephews, Lee and Steve Kowalski and a grandniece, Shannon Kowalski. On June 9, 2015, the officers and members of the BBVFC were joined at their headquarters by hundreds from the community to honor Chuck and his family. Tower 70 and Quint 70-5 crossed ladders and held an American flag over Chuck’s truck. The viewing was followed by a very moving funeral service. A full military salute was then performed, including Taps, a 21-gun salute and presentation of the colors. Chief Martin then sounded last alarm as the BBVFC said farewell to its brother. The BBVFC would like to thank the community for all of your support during this time of loss for the family, the company and all of us who were privileged to call Chuck a friend. - DFSN photos courtesy of the BBVFC
August 2015
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service in Action
to this school ny was dispatched Carlisle Fire Compa e intersection of S. Dupont bus accident at th erald’s Road. Highway and Fitzg Knowles; Carlisle PIO an Ry of y tes - DFSN photo cour
Camden-Wyoming Fire Company was alerted for a two-vehicle M VC. – DFSN photo cour tesy Robin Andino
Pursuit, crash in Hockessin. - DFSN photo by Randy Broadwater Carlisle Fire Co. at an MVC with subjects trapped. - DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles; Carlisle PIO
MVC with entrapment at Fred Hudson Road and Coastal Highway. - DFSN photos by Asst. Chief Justin Norman Joe Hopple PIO BBVF C MVC. Carlisle responds to y of tes ur co - DFSN photo sle PIO Ryan Knowles; Carli
s field. Combine fire ignite y of the Ellendale VFC tes ur co oto ph SN - DF
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
Delaware Fire Service in Action
ayton. on Route 300 in Cl MVC with rollover by Gene Shaner – DFSN photo
Crews respond to an MVC at Walker Road by the Hamlet Shopping Center. – DFSN photo by Lauden Robertson
fire on Mt. CHC assisted Station 45 on a trailer ton. Clay in d Roa hip Friends Photographer - DFSN photo by Jerry Hull, CHC
CHC loads a patient into waiting T-4 from an MVC on Route 1. - DFSN photo by Curt Gruber, CHC Photographer
A house fire on Co ld Sprin – DFSN photo by La g Place in Dover. uden Robertson
at Fatal Claymont MVC ads. Ro y rle Da d an s Naaman
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Up Close & Personal
Clayton firefighter after a recent mobile home fire. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner Wilmington Fire Department at their 2015 Hazmat Refresher. - DFSN photo courtesy of James. R. Jobes; PIO
Father and daughter Ryan and Haley Knowles. The Knowles firefighting family tradition extends back to the 1930s. -DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles
Members of the Carlisle Fire Company after assisting with a large wheat field fire. - DFSN photo courtesy of Ryan Knowles; Carlisle PIO
Tower 41 goes into service. - DFSN photo courtesy Robin Andino
Bethany Beach VFC firefighter drilling on May 30, 2015. - DFSN photos by Tom Moore
Tom Emerson (left) and Tate Coulbourne, Chief of Smyrna’s Citizens’ Hose Company during Memorial Day services in Smyrna. Tom served in Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan and Tate served in Iraq. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
August 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
PRODUCT DEBUTS AT FIREHOUSE EXPO! This year’s exhibit floor features over 200 of the biggest brands in the fire service as well as new exhibitors, moderated panels and a Fire-Rescue Competition. In addition to companies like Pierce, KME, Spartan ER, Sutphen, Smeal, Amkus, Bullex, Hurst, Lion, Stryker, Genesis, and Paratech, we’ve also got tons of brand new exhibitors such as: Active911, APR Plastic Fabricating, Brewer Fitness, Country Pride Food Service, Enovative Technologies, Fairfax Cryobank, FireRescue GPO, NPPGov, Foremost Medical Equipment, GPS Networking, Halyard Health, Hi-Dow Professional, IdentiFire, KC Sign Company, Little Arms Studios, MadhouzFire, MyTopo, Nest Labs, Newline Interactive, Positive Promotions, Stang Industries, Station-Pride.com, Stewart Signs, STORAGELogic of Maryland, Inc., Strong Swift Durable, and Wendell's. Other activities in the exhibit hall: July 16-Fire Rescue Competition: Semi- Finals - nine teams are competing to be crowned the national champions! Moderated Panel: East Meets West Part II | Fireground Strategy & Tactics - Research and Application with John Salka and Derek Alkonis. Fire Family Life Program: Join other firefighters and their families engaging in fun and informative activates. Fitness Showcase: An eight-minute demonstration will be held every hour on the hour on the exhibit floor. July 17- Moderated Panel: Firefighter Health and Safety with Michael O’Brian, Bryan Frieders, John Tippett and Eric Numberg.
Fire Family Life Program: Firefighters and their families have fun earning their Fire Family Life Certification. Fire Rescue Competition: Watch to see which two teams will move onto the finals! Fitness Showcase: An eight-minute demonstration will be held every hour on the hour on the exhibit floor July 18 - Fire Rescue Competition: The wining team will be crowned! Fire Family Life Program: Say goodbye to your new friends. Fitness Showcase: An eight-minute demonstration will be held every hour on the hour on the exhibit floor. Harley-Davidson Drawing: Will you be driving home on a Hog? The drawing will take place at 1430. The City of Baltimore Welcomes the Fire Service, You and Your Family! While the events of April and the days following are etched in everyone’s minds, much has happened since. Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach has visited the Baltimore Inner Harbor, has visited Camden Yards and visited the Baltimore Convention Center, where we will host the 32nd annual Firehouse Expo. We are pleased to inform you that visitors to the Inner Harbor today, and during the week of Firehouse Expo, will experience a Baltimore very similar to last year, and the years prior. The city is back and open for business and so is Firehouse Expo. Click on www.Baltimore.org to start planning your trip to Baltimore, today.
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2015
Fire Marshal’s Report Lighting Strike Sparks Newark Blaze Robert L. Fox Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that a house fire on June 23, 2015 in Newark, DE was accidental. The Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder Company of Newark responded to the 100 block of Haut Brion Avenue in the neighborhood of Meritage for a reported house struck by lightning. Upon arrival Fire Department personnel found the house full of smoke and a fire in the basement. State Fire Marshal Deputies were called to the scene and determined that the fire was accidental and caused by a lightning strike. No one was injured in the fire. Damage estimate is approximately $200,000. One adult was displaced and has been relocated to a nearby hotel.
Arsonist Strikes over Holiday Weekend
Road just before 1500 for a reported barn on fire. Firefighters observed flames engulfing a 40-by-100 foot structure as they arrived. Deputy fire marshals were called to the scene to investigate the fire’s origin and cause. The fire erupted inside the building when a mechanical malfunction occurred with farm machinery that had just been parked in the barn. There were no reported injuries. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $30,000.
Fire Marshals Respond to Two Overnight Fires Michael G. Chionchio Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated two early morning fires on May 31, 2015, in New Castle County. The Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown responded to a house on fire in the 100 block of Clear Creek Drive, Lexington Farms shortly before 0300. Heavy fire damage occurred to the occupied dwelling. A building fire near Hares Corner was reported to the Wilmington Manor Fire Company just after 0400. Smoke was seen coming from the Verizon Wireless store at 100 North DuPont Highway in New Castle.
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office is searching for those responsible for damaging a Wilmington swim club by deliberately starting fires inside the complex. The fire was reported shortly after 0200 on July 4, 2015. Firefighters from the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company arrived on the scene in the 900 block of Wilson Road and found equipment burned inside the Shellcrest Swim Club. Deputy fire marshals responded to the scene and conducted the crimExplosive Device Detonated in Newark inal investigation. Intruders intentionally burned pool furniture around Michael G. Chionchio the pool deck. Damage was estimated at $8,000. Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated the detonation Mechanical Malfunction in Felton of an explosive device on May 29, 2015, in a Newark, Delaware, park. The explosion occurred shortly after 1000 in the Iron Hill Park located Michael G. Chionchio at 1337 Old Baltimore Pike. Two male subjects riding in a newer model Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that the barn dark gray Honda Accord entered the park and intentionally caused the fire near Felton, Delaware on June 30, 2015, was accidental. The Felton explosion. The explosion did not create any damage to nearby structures.No Community Fire Company responded to the 200 block of John Hurd injuries were reported. Deputy fire marshals recovered the device.
Cover Story
Laurel Battles House Fire
Near midnight on June 18, 2015, Laurel, Blades and Seaford were alerted for a house fire in the area of King and E. Sixth Streets. Fire Chief Keith Lecates went on scene and reported heavy smoke showing from the attic area. Captain Mike Lowe responded as 81 Command and arrived with Chief Lecates acting as Operations Officer. Engine 81-3 stretched a five-inch supply line and made entry into the front door with Assistant Chief Tim West being interior Officer. Tower 81 set up on the A / D corner. Units arriving from Seaford were assigned exposures on the King Street side. Blades arriving units established water supply to Tower 87. Blades crews were also assigned RIT. Command requested an addition-
al engine company from Delmar to establish a manpower pool. Evac tones were activated and the attack was moved to a defensive strategy as the roof began to look unstable. Crews from 81-5 wtih Assistant Chief Brett Morris were assigned to the C side. Assistant Chief Rob Givens was assigned as Safety Officer. Crews were able to protect exposures, and the fire was contained to the area of involvement. No injuires were reported with Laurel and Delmar EMS crews along with SCEMS 102 establishing Rehab. Sharptown transferred an Engine to Laurel’s station for stand-by. The fire is under investigation by the Office of the Fire Marshal. – DFSN photo by Chris Lucas