VOLUME 20, NO. 4
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
AUGUST 2017
See story on page 29. - Submitted by Matt Read
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service See page 28
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... 3 Townhomes Go in Lewes Fire units from Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Milton, Slaughter Beach, Georgetown, Indian River responded to a two-alarm townhouse fire on Carter Way near Lewes. See story page 8
Vacant Row Home Fire Early on July 11, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to West 4th Street for a building fire. See story page 12
Stuck in the Mud On June 26, 2017, Aetna was dispatched to the 100 block of Haines Street for an extrication of a worker stuck in a muddy trench. See story page 18
PWC Accident on C&D Canal Stations 1 and 27, NCC Paramedics, DSP T4, Marine Units from 15 and 18, and Salem County Station 18, were dispatched to a watercraft in distress on the C & D Canal. See story page 20
Evolution of a Statewide Mayday Policy John Wilson, III describes the process leading to Delaware’s current statewide Mayday policy. See story page 30
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.
Benefit Raffle Wilmington FD officers and members held a raffle on June 18, 2017, to benefit the families of the Wilmington firefighters who were killed w h i l e f i g h t i n g a f i r e l a s t September 24. See story page 34
Index of Advertisers 1st Choice Safety Equipment .... 17 Firehouse Kitchen ............... 37
Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4
AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 13 National Fallen Firefighter’s Stair Climb ........................... 36 Amer. Military Univ ............. 27 PL Custom ........................... 15 ASI ....................................... 23 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 11 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ................... 5, 19, 24, 25, 31, 47 Roll-N-Rack ......................... 33
Pioneers of the DSFS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 28
Breaking News Network ...... 44
Rush Uniforms .................... 15
DPC ............................. 2, 21, 48
Spicer Mullikin .................... 41
ESI ....................................... 11
Sutphen .................................. 9
FireFlow ................................ 7
Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund ............... 15
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4
Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 45 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 45 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46
Firehouse Expo ............. 39, 43
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
HOSE CONNECTIONS
Knowing When to Say When
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Being Part of Something Bigger Fire News would like to offer its condolences to the family of Police Officer Miosotis Familia and to the New York City Police Department on the loss of this hero. Familia was a 12-year veteran of the NYPD, who was senselessly assassinated by a coward, while she was doing her job. I hope our leaders in government realize that the lives of all first responders working throughout our nation are at risk while they try to do a job that is designed to help the people they serve. I caution all first responders to be vigilant as they go about their daily duties. Every first responder that I know is proud of the job that they do. Our responders are the first line of defense in protecting the people of our country. They are proud to serve and protect the people of their community, no matter what the call is. First responders are proud of their country. As part of their uniform, they wear the American flag, which serves as a reminder to everyone that first responders are the first line of defense in keeping everyone safe. I was taught at a young age to respect the American flag, along with the people who live under it and who wear it. The flag serves as a reminder that all first responders are part of something bigger. Along with our military, first responders risk their lives to keep us safe and free. (An aside: take the time to visit the website of the US Department of Veteran's Affairs. They have a PDF high-
lighting the guidelines for displaying the flag at www.va.gov/opa/publications/c elebrate/flagdisplay.pdf.) For those of us who display the American flag at our homes, take the time to reflect on its true meaning. When you leave your home to respond to a call, glance at the flag to remember you are the first line of defense in protecting the community that lives under this symbol of greatness. There is current legislation that is being voted on called the Honoring Hometown Heroes Act. H.R. 1892 was introduced by Connecticut Congressman John Larson on April 4, 2017. The Senate version, S.1108, was introduced by Montana Senator Jon Tester on May 11. The legislation amends the U.S. Flag Code, affirming the ability of state governors, as well as the mayor of the District of Columbia, to order the lowering of the United States flag to halfstaff in the event of the death of a first responder in the line-ofduty. Please encourage your leaders in government to support this bill. Visit the Congressional Fire Service Institutes website at www.CFSI.org to follow the fate of this bill. Be proud of what you do as a first responder, but more importantly, stay vigilant as you serve your community. Let Police Officer Miosotis Familia's murder serve as a reminder that all of you are at risk as you try to protect the people you serve. …Dennis
by Steve Austin A number of years ago, a large brewer coined the slogan “when to say when” in referring to the need to know when one had consumed enough of their product. Knowing when to say when can also be applied to the fire service, such as knowing when suppression firefighters have gone in too deep or when driver/operators are driving too fast. Knowing when to say when can be an age thing. Continuing to respond could be a danger to fellow firefighters or one’s self. Knowing when to say when also applies to retaining a position too long in the fire service. As a member of many fire service organizations over the years I have seen the impact of staying too long in a job or an elected office. Otherwise outstanding people didn’t know how or when to bow out gracefully and enter senior status away from the day-to-day operations and administration. Unfortunately, some dedicated members become a roadblock to improving the service, often without their own knowledge. We’ve all seen the result, frequently with devastating impact on individuals and their organizations. I began to seriously consider learning the proper time to say “when” about the time I qualified for my DE Firefighter Pension. Those that know me well, know that I have been actively mentoring younger members of the service to learn to take over the positions I hold. That plan is working fairly well, as I have been shedding some of those long-held obligations to folks with newer and fresher ideas. In organizations where I am a leader I have added succession planning to meeting agendas. The task hasn’t been tough for me. I do understand that for some, standing down, especially later in life, can be very difficult. Going out on your own terms is always preferable to being forced out. My greatest challenge is to find folks who are willing to step up and assume the responsibility. Almost three years ago I spoke with Tim Edwards and Frank Trotta, the fine men who operate Delaware Fire Service News, that
I was contemplating stepping down from writing this column when I reached age 70. I had hoped that I could find a replacement. But despite a number of asks, no one has been willing to step up to the plate and take over. That is disappointing, but not unexpected, in an era where volunteerism is on the ropes. Despite my inability to find a replacement, this will be my last column. I will contribute as a reporter from time to time, but I’ll leave it to others to offer opinion on the state of the fire service. Looking back over the three different publisher/editor teams I wrote for I have nothing but praise for the way they covered the Delaware fire service. I do regret that once the paper had two columnists (Lou Amabili and I) commenting on local fire service issues. Now there are none. Perhaps a young aspiring firefighter might be challenged and step up. That would be good. Thanks to all of you who read my work over the past years. I knew that many of you wouldn’t always agree with me. I attempted to call things as I saw them and I appreciate your comments to me pro and con. But now I know it is time to say “when” in regard to this column. I’ll be making decisions on my other fire service responsibilities as I go along. You can count on one thing: I won’t be giving up my passion for fire service history and antique apparatus or my belief that being a volunteer in the fire service is one of the highest callings in life. Publishers Note: Thank you Steve Austin for your many years of service to the Delaware Fire Service and Delaware Fire Service News - Frank & Tim
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921 Firefighter Calendar: This year, WDEL 101.7 FM and 1150 AM, 93.7 WSTW, and Faith 1510AM want to honor the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters again by presenting our second annual Delaware’s Finest calendar. If you are interested go to this link for registration form: http://www.wstw.com/delawares-finest/ DVFA Committee Selections: We have changed our process for selecting committee members this year. We will be emailing all members of the Executive Committee a copy of the selection list. Also, at the Conference Meeting and Registration Area will be a list of committees that you can sign up for. If you were not at the June Executive Meeting we may not have your email address. Please send it to the Executive Manager at wjones@dvfassn.com Conference Forms: All conference forms are on the website please have them either email, faxed or mailed to the DVFA Office by
DVFA Office
August 8, 2017. Conference Seminars: There are some very informative conference seminars this year for your consideration. Tuesday is Legal Issues facing the fire service, the Pension Workshop and the Auditor's Seminar. Wednesday is Recruiting and Retaining Younger Members and the DVFA Round Table. Conference HOT Firefighter Training: The conference firefighter training will be run by the Delaware State Fire School. It will be on the new Draeger Phase V Burn Prop. Classes will be run both Thursday and Friday. Contact the Delaware State Fire School for registration. 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 monument 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 paid 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 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 members of the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service, thank you for what you do. My term as President has been filled with many issues and this last couple of months has been no exception. With the issues in Legislative Hall and the replacement of our Treasurer leading the list. I wanted to sincerely thank all of you who took the time to come to Legislative Hall for our Rally and for contacting your legislators. It was a trying time and long, late night, battle that resulted in many emotions. I was not pleased that Grant in Aid was cut 20%. They say that next year we will be in for the same battle. We have less than six months to come up with a plan. One thing you all can do right now and every time you see the Governor or Lt. Governor and your legislators is to speak to
them. Tell them you are a volunteer firefighter or member of the auxiliary and how disappointed you were in the cut. Be professional and polite not adversarial. We are looking at additional funding sources that will require legislation. We will need their vote to get this legislation passed, so please be professional and sincere when speaking to them. I’d like to thank George Pyott for stepping up and taking over the Treasurer’s job. Also, to let all of you know what a great job he has been doing. To have to jump in, take over and learn a job in the middle of stream was no easy task. Make sure you all thank him when you see him. As most of you know DVFA Director Clay Yocum of Greenwood has been in the hospital for a while now. He has had ups and downs during his stay. Right now, he seems to be heading in the right direction to recovery. He can have visitors and I am sure he would appreciate it. He is, as of this writing, in Kent General Hospital.
In May I had the pleasure of attending the Eastern Division of IAFC Conference in Rehoboth Beach. Our DVFA 2nd Vice President, Bill Betts, completed his term as President of the EDIAFC during this conference. I wanted to congratulate Bill on his successful year as President and thank the conference committee for a great conference. The State Fair is going on right now and we are one of the main sponsors again. I want to thank Earle Dempsey and all the members of the Recruitment and Retention Committee for working the booth at the fair and for all the work they do. This is the last year of our SAFER Grant, so we will have to figure how and where we go from here. Good luck in all your recruitment activities. Plans are being concluded for this year’s conference. I wanted to thank the conference committee for all their work and I look forward to seeing you all at Dover Downs in September.
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.
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 7
Marydel House Fire
On July 3, 2017, Station 56 tones were dropped by the Kent County 911 Communications for a house fire. Command 56, and Engine 561 (Marydel) under the direction of Deputy 56 with a crew of eight responded. Command 56 confirmed an active fire with heavy fire through the roof. A second alarm was transmitted, adding Station 41 (Camden-Wyoming), Station 51 (Hartly) and Kent County
Paramedics. Engine 56-1 deployed multiple handlines and dropped a supply line and started the fire attack. Tanker 56 supplied Engine 56-1. Camden Wyoming and Hartly firefighters assisted due to the large amount of fire. Also responding: Ambulance 56 and Chief 565 (DSFP). Special thanks to Station 43 Cheswold for providing cover. - Submitted by Mike Bredin
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
I-95 Tractor Trailer Fire
At 0200 on July 7, 2017 Engines 23,12, Squad 23,16 and Ladder 12 responded to a tractor trailer on fire on I-95. Companies arrived to find fire showing. Units worked for one hour to extinguish the fire. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Gas Station Car Fire On June 21, 2017, Christiana Engine and Ladder 12 responded to a car on fire at the Wawa on Airport Road. Units arrived to find the car on fire next to the gas pump. Crews quickly extinguished the fire. - Submitted by Christiana Fire Company
3 Townhouses Go in Lewes Fire units from Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Milton, Slaughter Beach, Georgetown, Indian River responded to a two-alarm townhouse fire on Carter Way near Lewes off of New Road. Arriving units found fire and smoke coming through the roof as residents were being evacuated by local police. Three units in the five-home complex were heavily damaged as crews worked for over four hours to bring the incident under control. No injuries were reported and the Delaware State Fire Marshall was investigating. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Lighthouse Rd. Car Fire On June 4, 2017, Station 90 was dispatched to a vehicle fire on Zion Church Road at Lighthouse Road. First units reported a fully involved vehicle fire on Americana Parkway at Lighthouse Road. Responding Trucks 90-1 and 90-4 extinguished the fire and performed overhaul. Fire police remained on the scene until the remains had been removed and the scene had been cleared. Responding units included Ambulance 90, 90-1, 90-4, 90-8 and several fire police. - DFSN photo by Dave Ferguson
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 9
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Dover House Fire On May 4, 2017, Dover firefighters along with a Station 41 (Camden) Rescue Company and EMS were dispatched to a house fire in the 800 block of Forest Street in Dover.
Seaford Smoke Showing On June 7, 2017, the Seaford Fire Department was dispatched, along with mutual aid, to the 1000 block of W. Stein Highway for smoke coming from a building. Command 87 arrived to a commercial strip mall with smoke showing in the middle-of-therow. The incident was under investigation by the State Fire Marshall’s office. - Submitted by Matt Read
Residential Basement Fire On July 2, 2017, Volunteer Hose was alerted to a residential structure fire on Victoria Drive in Summit Pond. Summit Pond did not have hydrants, so 27-8 requested tankers from Station 24 and Cecil County Station 2. Upon arrival 27-8 found a light smoke condition with neighbors outside. The front door was forced open and firefighters found zero visibility in the structure. Firefighters found a basement window blown out and there was an active basement fire. With no exterior access to the basement, crews made access through the front door. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Carlisle Eatery Fire Carlisle handled a restaurant fire at Ruby Tuesdays recently. - Submitted by Ryan Knowles
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
Indian River Boat Fire
Indian River handled a boat fire at the Shorts Marine storage yard on Long Neck Road on May 29, 2017. Engine 80-3 arrived and deployed two 1-3/4 inch handlines. Crews from Tanker 80 and Engine 80-1 assisted with fire suppression, overhaul and water supply. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Five Points Covers Goodwill Just after midnight on May 24, 2017, Five Points Ladder 17 was redirected from an assist on a residential fire in New Castle to cover Goodwill Station 18. Ladder 17 and Engine 15 covered their district for about an hour before returning. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Wier Avenue House Fire On May 14, 2017, Claymont crews assisted Station 11 with a structure fire on Wier Avenue. Ambulance 11 reported the fire. Ladder 13 arrived second-due special service, placed ground ladders and opened the roof. Engine 135 took the secondary water supply and crews assisted with overhaul. Crews were in service a little over an hour. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Vacant Row Home Fire Early on July 11, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to West 4th Street for a building fire. Upon arrival of the district battalion chief a report was given of heavy fire through the roof from the rear of a two-story middle-of-the-row vacant dwelling. The IC, Battalion Chief Richard Danner, requested a second ladder and an additional engine after the fire began to auto extend to the adjoining properties. Crews performed a quick knockdown of the initial fire, while the ladder companies removed boards from the windows for ventilation. Ventilation holes were also cut in the roof. Firefighters encountered some unsafe conditions in the primary fire building due to a previous fire. A primary and secondary search of all of the vacant properties was conducted with negative results for any fire victims. There were no injuries reported. - Submitted by James R. Jobes
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
Parkers Point Fire
Millsboro 83 and Gumboro 79 responded to a house fire in Parkers Point area called in by neighbor. Fire damage was contained to the exterior and decking. - DFSN photo by Larry Gum
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
Harrington MC Accident
August 2017
On June 11, 2017, Harrington Fire Company, Kent County EMS and Delaware State Police Aviation were dispatched to an MVC involving a motorcycle on Pine Pitch Road, west of Park Brown Road. Chief Robbie Brode was first to arrive and reported a head-on collision between a passenger car and a motorcycle. The operator of the motorcycle sustained serious injuries and the driver of the vehicle sustained an arm injury. EMS units arrived and began treating the injured subjects. The motorcyclist was airlifted by Delaware State Police Aviation to a local trauma center. The driver of the vehicle was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The scene was turned over to the Delaware State Police for further investigation. - Submitted by Earl K. Brode
MVC with Entrapment June 28, 2017, Volunteer Hose Company Stations 1 and 27 responded to an MVC with entrapment. Upon arrival, it was determined that the accident was an SUV versus tractor trailer. The passenger of the SUV was trapped and had to be extricated. Crew worked diligently and the passenger was freed and transported to local hospital. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Marydel School Bus MVC On June 29, 2017, Marydel firefighters and EMS were dispatched by the Kent County 911 Communications for an MVC involving a school bus. Command 56, Ambulance A-56 and Rescue 56 responded. Ambulance 56 arrived and started patient care. Due to the number of injured, Command 56 requested additional BLS Units and the Kent County Paramedics along with DSP Aviation (later cancelled). Rescue 56-3 and Engine 56-1 arrived and secured the vehicles, and drying agent was applied to the roadway for an active oil leak. - Submitted by Mike Bredin
3-Vehicle MVC On June 13, 2017, the Seaford Fire Department responded to W. Stein Highway for a three-vehicle MVC with one vehicle into a structure. Command 87 arrived and reported one subject trapped in a tractor trailer. Sussex County Technical Rescue Team, Kent County Technical Rescue Team, and several mutual aid fire companies made the response. After removing the patient, crews operated for several hours securing the building. Patients were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. - Submitted by Matt Read
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15
Claymont Handles MVC
The Claymont Fire Company was dispatched to I-495 southbound with multiple injuries and one trapped. Working together the crews in the area of Holly Oak for a high velocity MVC. Rescue Engine 13 had the patient quickly extricated, as the career staff attended to and both ambulances, along with Station 11, Medic-4 and Trooper- additional patients. Trooper-4 flew one patient from the scene. - Submitted by Gary Plotts 4 also responded. Arriving Deputy 13 (Hassel) reported an MVC
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Um … Not What ‘Waiting Area’ Means
On June 27, 2017, Stations 1 and 27, and MPD responded to a call of a vehicle into a building at Ashley Plaza in Middletown. Units arrived to find a single vehicle had run through the building and stopped in the waiting area of a beauty salon. Unit 27-8 established command. Since the vehicle was mostly inside the building and there was question as to the stability, 27-8 called for USAR13 special operations unit from Claymont. USAR13 assessed the structure. The vehicle was removed from the building, USAR 13 stabilized the structure’s entrance. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Boxwood Road MVC On June 5, 2017, Five Points and Belvedere were alerted to an MVC on Boxwood Road in front of the old GM plant. Units arrived to find a twocar collision with an injury. EMTs treated a person and transported him to the hospital, while firefighters cleaned debris from the roadway and fire police controlled traffic. Units cleared the scene in about 30 minutes and the road was reopened. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
State Line Rollover Just after midnight on June 29, 2017, Roxana was notified of a single-vehicle, rollover MVC on West Line Road, which is the boundary line between Delaware and Maryland. First arriving units discovered a SUV on its roof in the roadway, with a victim lying on the roadway being attended to by a passerby and neighbors. The victim was transported from the scene, via Roxana ambulance, to a local hospital. Fire units secured the vehicle and fire police remained on the scene until the towing service and Maryland police arrived. - DFSN photo by Dave Ferguson
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
Gas Leaks, Storm Damage Make for a Busy Day
On June 24, 2017, Ladder 17 was alerted to assist Holloway Terrace on a commercial gas leak at the Rite Aid on New Castle Avenue. Ladder 17 arrived with a crew of five and was sent to the roof to evaluate conditions. Severe damage to the building was discovered, which had come from a weather front that had passed through earlier. Air conditioning units were dislodged from their foundations on the roof causing gas leaks. Fences and other objects on the ground were overturned and several trees were uprooted or damaged. Ladder 17 was cleared and then sent to a Lukens Drive address, where they laddered the roof and found the same type of damage to that structure, also with gas leaks. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
Stuck in the Mud
On June 26, 2017, Aetna was dispatched to the 100 block of Haines Street for an extrication of a worker stuck in a muddy trench. Quint 7 arrived as the incident was being dispatched to find a worker stuck up to his knees in the bottom of a six-by-eight-foot hole. Crews began stabilizing the hole and working to extricate the worker. Ladder 9 and Rescue 8 responded as well as Chief Bowerson, who established Newark Command. Additional resources were
August 2017
requested including the Trench Rescue matrix, Wilmington Fire Department Squad 4, and New Castle County Paramedics. The worker was successfully extricated after 30 minutes and the specialty teams were cancelled. The worker was evaluated by Aetna EMTs and New Castle County Paramedics but refused transport to the hospital. Crews returned to service in approximately an hour. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands, photos by Dave Wilson
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Clayton FC Dispatched to Reported Structural Collapse On June 11, 2017, the Clayton Fire Company along with the Kent County Delaware Special Operations Team, with EMS units from American Legion Ambulance 64, Kent County Paramedics, and Delaware State Police Aviation Trooper 4 were dispatched to a reported structural collapse on Main Street at Clayton Avenue. The structure is a mixed-use facility of second floor apartments and a first floor store. First Assistant Chief Robbie Johnson arrived to find the walls of the facility at the roof line had been pushed out due to a partial truss roof collapse. Shortly after command was established, Rescue 45 under the command of Lt. Jonathan Burnett, Quint 45 under the command of past-Chief Robert Lightcap and Engine 45-3 under the command of Capt. Craig Snyder arrived, and established a safety zone. The units secured the utilities and started a search of the facility. Several civilians from the apartments were assisted to safety after the doors of the apartments were
jammed due to the shifting walls. Several residents of homes near the structure were also evacuated and assisted by the American Red Cross. DelDOT was called in to close Main Street west of the incident location. The scene was turned over to the Clayton Police Department for security until an inspector could look at the structure. Units responding: Command 45, Rescue 45, Quint 45, Engine 45-3 and 4, Kent County Special Operations Unit 43-1, Utility 43 w/ Special Operations Trailer, Rescue 51, Light/Air 51, Utility 53 W/Special Operations Trailer, Utility 40, Ambulances B & D 64, Kent County Paramedics KM 5 and 7, DSP Aviation Trooper 4, Clayton Police, Town of Clayton Public Works and Inspection, DelDOT, Chesapeake Utilities, American Red Cross, and Verizon Phone. - Story by Kevin Wilson, photo by Ashley Carrow
HazMat Assist Aetna Early on May 22, 2017, the HazMat team was alerted to respond to assist Aetna Fire on an MVC that caused a pickup truck to crash into a building used as a laboratory. There were concerns that there may have been chemicals spilled when the crash occurred. Teams arrived, entered the structure and determined there were no chemicals spilled or released. Units cleared after being on scene for about 90 minutes. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
PWC Accident on C&D Canal On June 13, 2017, Stations 1 and 27, NCC Paramedics, DSP T4, Marine Units from 15 and 18, and Salem County Station 18, were dispatched to a watercraft in distress on the C & D Canal. Units arrived to find injured subject from PWC (personal water craft) incident. Crews on scene assisted with treatment and packaging of the patient for transport to Christiana Hospital via DSP Trooper 4. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
TRAINING
Training Because … Ya’ Never Know
On June 5, 2017, members of the Clayton Fire Company conducted training on skills not regularly used. The members trained securing a patient into a Stokes basket and moving them from one point to another. Training Officer 1st Assistant Chief Ray Johnson said, “We need to train on all the skills we may be called upon to perform. Rope rescues and other rescue related tools are something we do
often, yet we must be the best we can be when the time comes.” Twenty members took turns securing other members in the Stokes basket. The members used straps, ropes, pulleys and other related rescue tools to move the basket using their ladder. Clayton trains on this procedure a few times a year. - Photos and story by Kevin Wilson
Live Burn Training
On June 4, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company along with the inside the structure and then at the end of the day firefighters conFelton, Farmington, Houston and Carlisle (Milford), conducted ducted a controlled burning of the structure. - Submitted by Earl K. Brode training at an acquired structure on Whitelysburg Road, in the area of Ingram Branch Road. Firefighters conducted live fire scenarios
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
TRAINING
Rapid Intervention Training
Several members of both Claymont Station 13 and Brandywine Hundred Station 11 ran scenarios on Rapid Intervention. Crews performed the Denver and Pittsburgh drills and focused on safely and efficiently removing downed firefighters. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
TRAINING
First Responders Continue Hazmat Training
Tanner Industries instructed tactics and response to anhydrous ammonia leaks. On April 7 and 8, 2017, over 300 first responders attended Delaware’s 10th Annual Hazardous Materials Training Workshop held at the Delaware State Fire School in Dover. This free training event is sponsored by Delaware’s State Emergency Response Commission (SERC), along with partners from the Kent, Sussex, New Castle and City of Wilmington Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC’s), DSFS, DNREC, DEMA, NCC OEM, Delaware National Guard 31st Civil Support Team, Mill Creek Fire Company, NCCIHMRA, TRANSCAER, Renewable Fuels Association and 33 company sponsors including Delaware City Refining, Densply Sirona, DuPont, Kuehne Chemical, Miller Environmental, Monroe Energy, Saint Francis Healthcare, Sunoco Logistics, Tanner Industries, Atlantic Emergency Solutions, BASF, Norfolk Southern, Safeware and VCI
Emergency Vehicle Specialists. Friday evening’s presentations were delivered by DSFS Director Robert Newman, DEMA Director A.J. Schall, DNREC Director Marjorie A. Crofts, Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security Cabinet Secretary Robert Coupe, and DNREC Engineer Mark Dolan. The keynote speaker was Delaware’s Kurt Reuther - Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Intelligence & Analysis - Field Operations, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Director Reuther’s engaging address centered on “Partnering to Combat the Evolving Threat Environment.” The 2017 Hazmat Training Workshop courses from local and national instructors included: Hospital Infectious Disease and Chemical DECON Advanced Air Monitoring Anhydrous Ammonia Response, CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological,
US DHS Regional Director Kurt Reuther presenting the keynote “Partnering to Combat the Evolving Threat Environment” Nuclear and Environmental) Response, Emerging Threats and Things That Go Boom Ethanol Safety Response Measure and Manage It Strategies, Plug and Play Hazmat Training Techniques, and Hazmat Rapid Risk Assessment Techniques. This year’s Hazmat Training Workshop was dedicated to Mill Creek Fire Company Deputy Chief Dr. Krissy Kreutzer — a longtime advocate, instructor, colleague and friend! Special thanks to the Fire School and staff for hosting this annual event, to the many volunteers of the Hazmat Workshop’s support staff and Planning Committee, and to the Mill Creek Fire Company for their workshop financial oversight and sponsor coordination. Work and train safely; plan on attending the 2018 Hazmat Workshop! - Submitted by Jake Morente, photos by DSFS
Millsboro Juniors Training Millsboro has a very active junior program. They have 12 juniors who are constantly training. Recently, Millsboro, along with Indian River 80 and Dagsboro 73, participated in a vehicle rescue session. - Submitted by PJ Mitchell
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27
Oyster Cracker Tournament
The 4th Annual Captain’s Lady Charters/Terry Farrell Fund Oyster news/item/288-4th-annual-delaware-captains-lady-charters-terryCracker Tournament has three three more dates to attempt to land farrell-fund-oyster-cracker-tournament - Submitted by Ryan Knowles the largest Oyster Cracker: July 23, August 20 and September 3. More information can be found at: terryfund.org/ delaware-
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig This issue will feature another very well known person in the Delaware Fire Service — and nationally, as well — Leslie W. Warrick. Les joined the Mill Creek Fire Company (MCFC) in February of 1966 as an Explorer Scout while still in high school. He became a full member in July 1968, the same year as he graduated from Thomas McKean High School. He went on to attend and graduate from the sheet metal workers’ apprentice school in the early 70s. Les was employed by Delmarva Power and Light from 1972 until December 2010, retiring as a Field Services Supervisor. After graduating from high school Les also joined the Delaware Air National Guard and served for six years in the 166th Civil Engineering Group as a Flight/Fire Protection Specialist. He was an honor graduate of Chanute AFB in 1969 and received his honorable discharge as an E-5 in October 1974. Les received most of his fire training at the Delaware State Fire School (DSFS) to include Fire One through Staff and Command, and received his EMT and NREMT training also. His military training and DSFS training enabled him to work his way up through the fire line chain of command to become Chief of MCFC from 1994 to 1996. Les then moved on up the road to Cranston Heights Fire Company (CHFC) and once again was able to serve as Chief of the CHFC in 2002-2003. In 2004 Les decided that he still wanted to be on the front line and became a member of the Delaware Fire Police, NCC Division, so that he could protect his fellow firefighters by keeping the traffic where it belongs, ‘Out of the way,’ as well as performing other duties associated with the fire police units. Les’s participation in the fire service led him to join the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) back in 1982 and he is now a life member. In 2002 while Chief of CHFC, he had the honor of being Chairman of the 2002 Eastern Division of the International Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) 75th Anniversary Conference held in Wilmington. He also served as Eastern Director from 2005-2007 and served on many task groups with the IAFC from 2005 to 2010. Les, and his lovely wife Sandy, could be found at most all the EDIAFC and IAFC conferences. He represented our division very honorably. After serving on all the committees and being a Director he went on to serve as President of the EDIAFC for 2010-2011. In addition to the above duties and obligations Les has served the State of Delaware and New Castle County by serving as President of the Delaware Valley Fire Chiefs in 1999; President of the NCCFCA in 2005; CHFC President in 2011; DSFCA President in 2011-2012; and just recently completed his term as President of the New Castle County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association (NCCVFA) in 2016. While presiding over all of these fire service organizations he still found time to be a member of the NCCF&A Advisory Board since 2010 and is still serving in that capacity. He also served on many county committees as well during his terms.
WOW Les, did you ever have time to relax and smell the roses? I know that Sandy had to keep a calendar of all the events and where you guys were going to be next. For all of his efforts and input to better the fire service of NCC and Delaware, he was inducted into the DVFA Hall of Fame in 2013. I asked Les what was his most memorable fire event? “That would have been the Red Barn on Kirkwood Highway.” Les and another firefighter were the first ones in the door that night. (I'm sure that many of you reading this article remember that fire, me included). There were several others that he remembers, mostly with Aetna HH&L on dual responses, to include New England Pizza; the Opera House; and of course Chrysler. Again that is one that I think most of the NCC departments responded. As in many families up and down the state, his also plays an important part of his life. His lovely wife Sandy (aka, the Cake Lady) is a member of the CHFC Ladies Auxiliary; his sons Jack and Brian served as fire line officers in their respected departments. Most of you who respond with NCC Paramedics have probably worked an accident scene or EMS call with both gentlemen as they are NCC Paramedics. Les said he was encouraged to join MCFC by his closest friend, Wally Mergenthaler, whose entire family have been involved with the MCFC. Families are a big part of the Delaware Fire Service no matter if you are in NCC, Kent or Sussex, there seems to be family ties throughout the state. Les said that two of his primary mentors were John P. Fox from MFC, and the late Raymond Harrington of CHFC. They helped him get his start in the fire service, but he has gained life-long friendships with so many members of the fire service, not only in our state, but across the country, over the last 50 years. He said they are special because, “I know that I have their support if I ever need it which is what the fire service is about.” I agree Les, networking with members of other departments from anywhere in the country will always be handy if you have a problem to solve and need another point of view. Having just completed his 50 years in the fire service, Les said that he is thankful that he has had the opportunities to complete all of these tasks. He hopes to continue to provide these services to our citizens and visitors to our state for a long time. It is becoming very difficult to recruit and retain members, but we must all strive to overcome these challenges for the good of all. Words of wisdom that Les would like to pass on would be to, “make sure you realize what the commitment is of your time for training and other responsibilities, and the impact it will have on your personal life, family life or your job you need everyday to survive.” Les, thanks for all you have done to promote the fire service of Delaware, locally and nationally. Thanks for being a good friend of mine for almost 40 years, and keep on promoting the great State of Delaware in your travels.
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29
Cover Story
Fatality at Seaford Trailer Fire On June 27, 2017, the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a smoke investigation in the area of Ellis Mill and Quail Roads. Assistant Chief Wilson was met at the end of a long dirt road by neighbors who said a house trailer was fully engulfed, and a subject was possibly still in the home. St a t i o n s 7 1 B l a d e s , 7 2 Bridgeville, 78 Greenwood, 100 Federalsburg, 26 Eldorado-Brookview, Sussex County Paramedics, Delaware State Fire Marshal and the D e l a w a re St a t e P o l i c e responded. Units operated for over three hours at the scene. Firefighters found one victim in the trailer after extinguishing the fire. - Submitted by Matt Read
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
Evolution of a Statewide Mayday Policy
August 2017
By John “Jack” Wilson, III The journey that this policy took started three years ago while I was listening to New Castle County and Wilmington firefighters transmitting Maydays. I recognized the ineffectiveness of the current standard operating procedure between the firefighter transmitting, the incident commander (IC) responding to the call, and the communication center acting appropriately. Since that time, the Delaware Fire Services has had many Maydays transmitted and each had been handled differently, or not handled at all. There have been firefighter close calls, injuries and fatalities. Maydays are the last thing an IC, communication center, or firefighter wants to hear while doing their job. To this day, my heart still sinks when I hear that distress call go out. We know by national statistics that most Maydays happen within the first seven to nine minutes of a call. This has been credited to longer response times, low staffing levels, building construction and even training. I was asked by Delaware State Fire Chiefs’Association to Chair the Statewide Mayday Committee after comments I made three years ago in a Kent County Chiefs Association meeting. I had just ended my soapbox talk with “When will enough be enough?” I really did not know what a meaningful adventure this would turn into. I really thought it would take about six months and I found out that was not even close. My first step was to compile data. To do this, I spoke to some national educators and even used the Don Abbotts’ National Mayday Study. I also created a Survey Monkey questionnaire in which over 150 firefighters statewide responded. I found the national statistics to be overwhelming with an alarming rate of firefighters calling Maydays. I was discouraged to learn through the statewide survey that many of our firefighters did not know how to operate their radios correctly (what the emergency alert button was used for) or even what our current Mayday policy is. These are all important factors to survival, aside from learning self-rescue techniques and situational awareness. The information and facts were right in front of our faces.
We developed a committee of two fire chiefs from each county with extensive knowledge of how the communication centers work to meet and come up with a plan. The committee came up with the first draft and decided the best way to present this was to have a workshop with three different groups and discuss the needs for this policy. We understood the policy would have to serve 60 combination-volunteer depart-
ments, one career department, several EMS departments, and seven dispatch centers. Within this time, I personally met with several Fire Chiefs, including those from Wilmington, Dover, Rehoboth Beach and Seaford, who all operate under a different communication systems. I had very good conversations with all of the chiefs who had very good things to add to policy. My sidebar conversations with all communication center representatives was an interaction I never had before. We started off with reviewing every policy that was present in all of the centers. We took note of what the committee felt would be the best practices for the state. We even reviewed several procedures from other neighboring
states. The Mayday events of September 24, 2016, in Wilmington, and soon after that in City of Dover, sped this process into warp speed. We had several Maydays even after that and all plans and process did not go as planned. We all had to take a reality check and get this done. The workshop was conducted in November 2016, with tremendous participation from all over the state; over 40 fire chiefs were in attendance. We also invited all communications centers, firefighters, chief officers, and EMS personnel to attend. The goal was to expand on thoughts from our third draft. The meeting turned out to be one the most informative meetings I have been to in a long while. We gathered several pages of notes from the firefighter group, chiefs group, and communications group. Without this workshop we would still be writing this policy and have no end in sight. I even pushed out Mayday Training at the Delaware State Fire School to make sure we were addressing the issue of firefighter survival skills. We completed 18 programs that trained over 500 firefighters and ICs on Maydays. This three-hour class was conducted by coaches/mentors/instructors to ensure the firefighters understood all aspects of Maydays. Fast forward to June 22, 2017, at the State Fire Chiefs Meeting at the Harrington Fire Company — a little over three years since this process started — and making the final presentation for this state-wide Mayday policy. I would be lying if I did not say my heart was pounding. In the back of my mind, I could only think of three of my friends who recently lost their lives in the line of duty and to the many others who were injured and called for Maydays. This has not been an easy process to say the least. I really appreciate all of Committee’s input, all of the firefighters, chiefs, and dispatchers who stopped me to discuss their valued words on this policy. Without the passion to do the right thing and great people to work with, this effort may have never gotten this far. The policy passed unanimously on the State Chiefs floor on June 22, 2017. The policy now moves on to each county for approval and adoptions.
Memorial Day Flag Ceremony The Lewes and Rehoboth Sunrise Rotary Club honored local first responders with a flag ceremony on Memorial Day at the Cape Henlopen High School near Lewes. A special flag was planted in memory of Lewes Firefighter (LODD) Tim McClanahan by his brother Sean. State and local police were also honored. Local motorcycle veterans escorted apparatus to the site for the ceremony. - DFSN photos by Chuck Snyder
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Harrington Firefighter Cody Outten Honored During the regular monthly meeting of the Harrington Fire Company, officers and members honored Firefighter Cody Outten for his actions during a medical emergency on May 19, 2017. Cody, who recently graduated from Lake Forest High School, witnessed another student suffer a medical emergency in the school. Cody began to assess the student’s condition and determined that the student was not breathing and was in cardiac arrest. Cody then initiated CPR and ordered a bystander to obtain an AED. As Cody continued CPR an AED was brought to him and Cody, along with other staff members applied the AED and shocked the student one time. The student then regained a pulse and was transported to a local medical facility for treatment. The Harrington Fire Co. in proud and honored to have members like Cody who are willing to help anyone in their time of need. (Left to right): Lynn Outten (Cody’s grandmother), Ruth Dean (great-grandmother), Jeff Outten (father), Cody, Bobby Outten (grandfather) and Fire Chief Robbie Brode. - Submitted by Earl K. Brode
Hard Work Pays Off for Marydel On June 8, 2017, members of the Marydel Volunteer Fire Company attended the Sudlersville (MD) parade. With the dedication and hard work that the members put in on the apparatus, the company was awarded Best Appearing Department - Out of County. Congratulations, and keep up the hard work and dedication. - Story by Mike Bredin
Five Points Members Complete Training
FF Knowles Graduates From Sussex Tech HS Carlisle would like to congratulate Firefighter Haley Knowles who graduated with honors from the Sussex Technical High School. Haley is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. Haley will be attending St. Andrew’s University in North Carolina in the fall. Haley is an active member of Carlisle. - Submitted by Ryan Knowles
On May 29, 2017, the officers and members of Five Points Fire Company congratulated members, Chris Murtha, Vernon Perry and Brandon Merrill upon their graduation from New Castle County’s third recruit class. All of their hard work and dedication has paid off and the officers and members stand ready to guide them on their journey. The three are now certified Pro Board FF1 and FF2 firefighters. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
CSM Morris Transfers Lt. Colonel Kevin Golart, Commander 436th Civil Engineer Squadron presents Command Sergeant Major Charles Morris, Dover AFB Fire Emergency Services Fire Chief, with a gift from the members of the squadron at his final fire department shift change on June 9, 2017. Chief Morris and his family arrived at DAFB in June 2015 and have transitioned to a new assignment at Joint Base Hickam in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The members of the fire department wish to thank Chief Morris for all of his guidance and leadership and wish him the best in his new assignment. - Submitted by Joseph Mriss
Carlisle Gives Back to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition Several members of the Carlisle Fire Company formed a Committee to assist the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition in thier continuing public outreach and treatment of this disease. The committee assembled a design identifying Carlisle’s commitment to making everyone aware by selling t-shirts as well as sweat shirts to raise funds on behalf of the coalition. On March 31, 2017, committee members met with Coalition Program Manager Lois Wilkerson for a check presentation at the firehouse. To date the sale of the shirts has raised $350. - Submitted by Ryan Knowles
August 2017
Members were busy in a few different Independence Day activities. On July 1, 2017, Squad-17 did a fire standby on B&O Lane to assist the Elsmere Fire Company for the Annual Town of Elsmere Fireworks. On July 4, Ladder17 attended the Annual Independence Day Parade in Pitman (NJ). Later that day, Ladder17 participated in the Annual Hockessin 4th of July Parade. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33
Fireworks Stand-By and Parades
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
Benefit Raffle
The officers and members held a raffle on June 18, 2017, for a custom painted leather Memorial Fire Helmet and Memorial Fire Shield. Proceeds will be donated to the families of Wilmington Fire Department’s Captain Christopher Leach, Lieutenant Jerry Fickes, and Lieutenant Ardythe Hope who were killed
August 2017
while fighting a fire last September 24. Congratulations to Mr. Canfield who won Piece for donating the shield. Thank you to everyone who participated in the helmet and Mr. Ed Testa who won the shield. Special thanks to Jay Abel at The Fire this fundraiser. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes Store for donating the helmet, AKM Designs for painting the helmet, and Gold Leaf Furnace
Dover Pipes for Memorial Day
Members of the Dover Fire Pipes and Drums band played a Memorial Day service at the Vietnam Memorial in Dover to honor all our Delaware veterans that have served and those that never made it home. - Submitted by Ryan Knowles
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
Grant in Aid Rally
On June 30, 2017, the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association of Grant in Aid. Close to 100 firefighters and Auxiliary members held a rally on the steps of Legislative Hall protesting the defunding attended.
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
Rehoboth Beach’s Scheerer Honored
Rehoboth Beach EMS Supervisor Mike Scheerer was honored at the recent Sussex County EMS Banquet as EMS Supervisor of the Year for 2016. RBVFC congratulates Mike for a job well done. - DFSN photos by Chuck Snyder
August 2017
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
Firehouse Kitchen In a very funny e-mail I received from the Sloatsburg Fire Department, located in upstate New York, they commented on the show I did with Firefighter Mike Brockbank from the FDNY. Mike was cooking with a plastic fork. In Mike’s defense, all the silverware was locked up in the firehouse in which we were cooking and house watch couldn’t find the key. So like any good fireman, fireman find a way! This spurred the Sloatsburg comment, “Why don’t you come to Sloatsburg to film a show, where we have real knives and forks to cook with?” I happily accepted. Sloatsburg is a beautiful, little town about 15-miles northwest of the Hudson River (off the New York Thruway). When I arrived at the firehouse, they were just getting back from a run. I said to one of the firemen, as he was stepping out of his bunker gear, “Hi. I’m Firefighter Ray and I’m here to film Firehouse Kitchen.” He replied, with a big smile, “Oh, you’re the guy. The cook’s committee is in the back.” The firehouse was an old one. It had a recreational room that looked like the inside of an old barn, but in a good way. It added to the old-time country feel of the town. Around back, I met John Barcowski, Jack Collins and Ronnie Herman. John was the head cook and was bigger than life. John, with a great big smile, asked, “Are you ready for some jambalaya? But first, we have to have an adult beverage.” I said with a smirk, “Of course we do.” This turned out to be a great show. John and Jack had great chemistry cooking together. They were ‘busting each other's chops,’ telling fire stories and sharing Sloatsburg history, while Ronnie did all the prep work in the background. He was the man behind the scenes. On this episode, I introduced our firehouse pride moment. Sloatsburg’s pride was a 1954 Dodge pickup. It was a small pick-up with four-wheel-drive that had a pumper on it and could go anywhere! It was perfect for brush fires. Hey, they are in the Catskills, so it’s an essential vehicle for their department. The jambalaya was delicious, and we made some heart-attack Italian bread. It wasn’t so much the meal that made my experience at this firehouse one to remember, it was the guys. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com or visit us on Facebook.
SLOATSBURG'S JAMBAYALA (serves 4)
3 Kielbasa links 3 green peppers 2 onions 1 lb. raw, peeled shrimp 1 lb. crayfish tails Garlic powder
Cajun seasoning 1 cup Sliced green olives 1 cup rice 1 cup water Salt and pepper
Slice kielbasa, peppers, onions and olives. Make sure all shrimp and crayfish are de-shelled. In a large sauce pan, sauté kielbasa until golden brown. Add green peppers and onions. As they soften, juices will fill the pan. Pour in cup of dried rice (add water if needed). Reduce to a high simmer and cover. Once rice is cooked, add shrimp and crayfish. Use garlic powder, salt and pepper and cajun seasoning to taste. Mix together. Add more water if needed. When just about done, add the olives. Stir together and serve.
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS Opens New Fire Safety Facility After months of planning and development the Delaware State Fire School opened its new Fire Safety Warehouse on the grounds of the Sussex Division of the Fire School. The building will store the Fire Safety Van, which is used for area public education events, as well as store the materials used. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Smoke Alarm Installation Campaign On May 20, 2017, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company collaborated with the American Red Cross and the Delaware State Fire School to participate in a nationwide initiative that aims to reduce the number of fire deaths and injuries in the U.S. by 25 percent within five years by performing a door-to-door campaign to test and inspect residential smoke detectors. The American Red Cross is working with fire departments and other partners that deploy teams of volunteers into the neighborhood to install free 10-year smoke alarms and replace smoke alarm batteries. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Delmarva Shorebirds Host DSFS for Emergency Services Day The Delmarva Shorebirds are the Class A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles and are located in Salisbury, Maryland. The Shorebirds organized an event on June 25, 2017, to honor emergency services providers. The Delaware State Fire School was invited to attend and greeted fans at the gate, placing the DSFS engine on display. Also, handouts were provided to children entering the stadium. We thank the Shorebirds for helping us spread the word of Fire Safety. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS Responds to SERT Call On June 27, 2017, the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department and Blades Volunteer Fire Company, along with SCEMS were alerted for an MVC with entrapment on Stein Highway. Seaford Captain Tom Lecates was Incident Commander. A mini-van had crashed into a tractor trailer compromising its saddle tank. The crew from Rescue 87, with Assistant Chief Matt Reid and Rescue 71, under command of Chief Earl Chaffinch, began extrication efforts. Lecates requested additional resources for containment and cleanup. DNREC was notified as well as an alert for a Level I SERT
requesting representatives from the Delaware State Fire School. Felton Fire Company responded with its HazMat Unit. Senior Instructors Mike Lowe and Chad Ingram responded to assist command. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Francis Passwaters Named a Lifetime Instructor of DSFS 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 as well as others. In December of 2016 he announced his retirement. Francis’s knowledge and experience can never be replaced. On May 10, 2017, staff of the Fire School came together before the 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 instrucIn 1976 Francis Passwaters was an employee of DuPont’s Seaford tors and former students all wish him the best with his future. Plant and an officer with the Blades Volunteer Fire Company, when he - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Summer Fire Camp a Huge Success
After months of organization by the Fire School staff, 42 young peo- was provided by the Citizens Hose Ladies Auxiliary. The obstacle ple attended the first Delaware State Fire School Fire Camp. The course, rope evolutions and tours on several area fireboats were event was held June 27 through 29, 2017. Events included a wide highlights of their week. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS assortment of firefighting skills, tours and demonstrations. Lunch
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Delaware Fire Service in Action
Indian River Fire Company Engine 80-3 and Tanker 80 handled a machinery fire on June 13, 2017, off of Bay Farm Road. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
with tched for an MVC Station 90 was dispa and Daisey Roads. , 17 20 , 17 ne Ju On ection of Roxana rollover at the inters oto by Dave Ferguson - DFSN ph
Firefighters River respon from Rehoboth Beach, Lew ded Court in Ang to a mobile home fire es, and Indian on Montgom ola Beach E ery st ates on - DFSN phot o by Chuck May 28, 2017. Snyder
Christiana Rescue Engine 12 and Ladder 12 were clearing an MVC on Route 1 when Ambulance 15 arrived at an MVC with entrapment on Red Lion Road and S Dupont Highway. - Submitted by Christiana Fire Company
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Up Close & Personal
Aetna crew members cleaning up after being dispatched to the 100 block of Haines Street for an extrication of a worker stuck in the mud on June 26, 2017. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands, photo by Dave Wilson
Indian River Fire Company Senior Firefighter Charlie Mood and Probationary member Devon May at a recent fire in Rehoboth Beach. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
Rehoboth Beach Assistant Chief Vaughn McCabe at training. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
A member from Rehoboth Beach during Firefighter Survival Training at the DSFS in Georgetown. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Rehoboth Beach Deputy Chief Craig Farren conducts training. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Rehoboth Beach Firefighter John Meng at training. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
Delaware Fire Service in Action
Seaford firefighters, County Paramedics and Rescue 71 on scene at a motor vehicle accident on Stein Higway on June 27. - Submitted by Matt Read
Members from Rehoboth Beach recently completed Firefighter Survival Training at the DSFS in Georgetown. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
On July 12, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the C Platoon were dispatched to assist the Holloway Terrace Fire Company on an injured worker at an industrial site. - Submitted by James Jobes
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
CVVFA 116th Annual Convention August 2-5 2017, McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Co. 112 East Maple Street, McConnellsburg, PA 17233
Wednesday, August 2:
1900
Audit Committee Meeting Board of Directors MeetingLocation to be Announced
Thursday, August 3:
0800 0900 0915
Registration- Coffee, Juice, Donuts Call to order Annual Memorial Service St. Paul Lutheran Church 220 North Third Street, McConnellsburg, PA Meeting reopens Lunch- Fire House Meeting reconvenes Saturday, Keynote Speaker Todd A. Leiss: August 5: Traffic Incident Management Coordinator PA Turnpike Commission Learn from the LegendsLincolnWay Pizza and Sports Bar Picnic- American Legion Picnic Grounds
1045 1200 1300
1530 1830
Friday, August 4:
0800 0900 1200 1300 1400 1830
Registration-Coffee, Juice, Donuts 32nd Annual Presidents Council Meeting Lunch President Council Reconvenes Business meeting Annual Installation and Awards Banquet American Legion Post 561 411 N. 5th Street McConnellsburg PA Banquet Speaker: Tim Solobay Fire Commissioner, Commonwealth of PA
TBA Annual Prayer BreakfastLocation to be determined 0900-1200 Pre-parade Judging Fulton CO. Fair Grounds Lincoln Way East, McConnellsburg PA 1200 116th Annual Convention Parade steps off followed by Awarding of Prizes at the Fire House
CUMBERLAND VALLEY VOLUNTEER FIREMEN’S ASSOCIATION 116th Annual Convention Registration and Event T-Shirt Form • August 2-5, 2017 hosted by McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Co. Name: ________________________________________________________________ Affiliation:__________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Contact Info: Cell (____) ____________________ Email: ______________________ Thursday Picnic at American Legion Picnic Grounds # __________tickets free Friday Banquet at the American Legion # __________tickets at $10.00 each T-Shirt @ $20 dollars each
#_____S #____M #____L #____X Large #____ 2X Large
Total Enclosed______________ Please pre-register by: July 14, 2017
#____3X Large
Make Checks payable to McConnellsburg Volunteer Fire Co. Mailing address: McConnellsburg VFC Attention: Convention Committee PO BOX 724 McConnellsburg PA 17233
August 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
FDSOA APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will celebrate its 30th Anniversary January 15-17, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The first symposium was created after a series of meetings initiated by the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ staff, fire chiefs, several state mechanics’ associations and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association to address issues concerning apparatus, maintenance and maintenance personnel. I n 1 9 8 8 , the f ir st Appa r a tus Maintenance and Specification Symposium was held in Fort Worth, Texas, through the efforts of Fire Chief Larry McMillen, Fort Worth Fire Department, Bob Barraclough, Span Instruments, and Mary McCormack, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1989, after the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established as a subsidiary of the ISFSI, the Apparatus Symposium was moved to a hotel on Sandlake Road in Orlando,
Florida. The symposium was designed to be educational and limited to table tops, not exhibits. Topics covered a range from preventive maintenance efforts to issues of liability and new safety standards. As the conference grew, it moved to the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive. In 2013, the FDSOA headquarters were moved from Massachusetts to Michigan, and the Apparatus Symposium and the annual Safety Forum are co-located and held the same week, alternating between Orlando and Scottsdale, AZ. “Thirty years is a major accomplishment to sustain a very unique conference,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director for FDSOA. “Fire apparatus has changed significantly over the past thirty years and most importantly, the focus on safer apparatus for fire and EMS personnel. FDSOA is proud to continue to support improvements and education in safety.” T h e 3 0 t h F D S O A A n n u a l Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will feature keynote speakers: Brad Pinsky, attorney and fire chief; Garry Briese, executive director, Colorado State Fire Chiefs; and Chief Bruce Varner (ret.). For further details: Rich Marinucci, e-mail: fdsoa@fdsoa.org.
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters in New York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park. “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation performs extraordinary work providing resources for the families of fallen heroes across the country,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By climbing steps each year, every participant not only raises funds to support the families of FDNY members who made the Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure those we have lost are never forgotten.” Gates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt and a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring.
The stair climb is a family event and we encourage you to bring your spouses, children, family and friends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin at 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited draft beer and soda. There will also be bounce castles, pony rides and fun for the entire family. In addition, the New York Racing Association will raffle two 2018 Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valued at $200 each, and will assign a minimum of five race names for the FDNY to use to honor their fallen. For more information and to register, go to www.nationalstairclimb.org. • Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org • Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
August 2017
Fire Marshal’s Report Vacant Recycling Facility Burns B. Scott Bullock, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office investigated a vacant commercial structure fire that occurred on, June 26, 2017, just before 1700 in Kent County, DE. The fire was reported by a passing motorist that observed smoke at the former Mike Davidson Recycling facility, located in the 3000 block of Willow Grove Rd, west of Camden, DE. The Felton Community Fire Co responded to the call and arrived with fire involving outdoor piles of recycling debris and heavy fire inside the structure. Numerous fire companies from Kent County, Sussex County, and Maryland responded for assistance to handle the large fire load inside the structure. During the suppression operations 2 firefighters were transported to Kent General Hospital and treated for medical conditions. The fire was placed under control at 2100. Investigators from the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to conduct the investigation into the origin and cause of the fire. It was determined that the fire was intentionally set. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office arrested a Harrington juvenile, and a Magnolia juvenile in connection with the fire. Deputy Fire Marshals followed leads provided by bystanders and witnesses on the day of the fire that led to the arrests. The juveniles were seen leaving the property at the time of the fire and fleeing on bicycles east towards Camden. Damages for the fire are estimated at over $200,000 and are expected to rise due to the continued response by the Felton Fire Co for areas that continued to burn that are not easily accessible.
Worker Burned at Delmar Speedway Harry R. Miller, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a reported accidental injury that occurred in Delmar, DE. The incident occurred on June 6, 2017, at the Delmar Speedway located on Raceway Road, and was reported at 1135. The Delmar Volunteer Fire Company EMS responded to the scene. A 74 year old male worker was injured during the incident and was transported to Bay View Medical Center, in Baltimore, MD to be treated for 2nd and 3rd degree burns to approximately 20% of his body. The State Fire Marshal’s investigation determined that the injury occurred when an electric fuel pump used to transfer racing fuel caused a flash fire.
Fatal Fire in Cheswold Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a fire that occurred on June 25, 2017 in Cheswold, Delaware. One person was found deceased inside the apartment building. The blaze, reported shortly before 2130, occurred in the 100 block of Commerce Street. The Cheswold Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames shooting from a 2nd floor apartment. One firefighter was injured and transported to the Bayhealth Kent General Hospital. Another victim, believed to be a resident, was found deceased inside the 2nd floor apartment. State fire investigators conducted the investigation into the fire’s origin and cause. The Delaware Division of Forensic Science conducted the autopsy. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $50,000. Four apartments were damaged. The American Red Cross provided emergency assistance to approximately ten displaced tenants.
Wilmington Manor FC Responds to Fatal Fire Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a house fire on June 15, 2017 in New Castle, Delaware that claimed the life of a 62 year old male resident. The blaze, reported shortly before 1900, occurred in the unit block of Third Avenue in the Midvale development off of S. DuPont Highway. The Wilmington Manor Fire Company extinguished the fire. Deputy State Fire Marshals investigated this incident. The lone occupant of the house was severely burned and taken to the Christiana Hospital and transferred to the Crozer Burn Center where he passed away. Fire damage was contained to a small area inside the home. A smoke alarm inside the home failed to operate due to not having a battery.