Fire News Delaware April, 2024

1 Person Injured in Wilmington House Fire

The Wilmington Fire Department responded to W 14th Street for a report of house fire.

See story on page 4

3-Alarm Fire at Townhouse in Bayberry

The Odessa Fire Company was dispatched to a townhouse fire on the 1600 block of Matisse Drive in Bayberry North.

See story on page 7

Historic Camp Suffers

Major Fire Near Laurel

Laurel, Blades, and Seaford Fire Departments along with Sussex County E.M.S. were alerted for a house fire on Cottage Circle.

See story on page 11

Person Trapped in Rollover

Seaford Fire assisted Bridgeville Fire with a motor vehicle collision with entrapment.

See story on page 14

Obituaries

Halloway Terrace’s William Maxwell, Sr. Clayton’s Mary Kelly

Clayton’s Thomas Galliers Ruppert Felton’s Larry Robert Sipple

See stories on pages 30 & 31

Odessa Fire Co. Cadet Program Thrives

The Odessa Fire Co. Cadet Program provides an opportunity for young people to become familiar with career opportunities in the Fire & Emergency Services.

See story on page 43

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1 Person Injured in House Fire in Wilmington

On January 24, 2024, the Wilmington Fire Department responded to W14th Street fora report of house fire. Crews found heavy smoke coming from a 2-story residence. Fire companies entered the residence and performed an aggressiv e attack on the fire. On male resident was located on the first floorand removed by firefighters. The resident was transported to the Christiana Hospital with serious injuries. The fire was confined to the first floorof the residence with smoke and heat damage to the second floor. The cause and origin of the fire are currently underinvestigation by the Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office.

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

Extensive Damage to Home in Long Neck Village

Early Friday morning on December8, 2023, the Indian River, Lewes, and Millsboro fire companies were alerted fora residential structure fire on Lighthouse Lane in the Long Neck Village development. Initial arriving identified a working structure fire on the “B-C” cornerof the structure, smoke showing from all eaves of the structure, heavy fire in the rear, cars in the driveway with unknown status of occupants. Extensive efforts to stop the advancement of the fire were coordinated, and the fire continued into the multiple roof, void space areas, and the rearsections of the structure. It was determined that the occupant(s) were not home at the time of the fire, but sadly a dog perished in the structure.

- Submitted by Steven Deery Jr.

Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921

DVFAOffice

Greetings from the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. We have a lot going on in the upcoming weeks.

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Memorial Weekend service in Emmitsburg, MD, will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2024. Delaware had three (3) Line of Duty Deaths being honored this year, they are Phil Young, Chief John Pridemore, Jeremy Lundgren. The DVFAhas reserved a bus to take the trip over. Please contact Jay Jones to reserve a seat.

The DVFA2024 Conference being held in Rehoboth and Dewey Beaches on the 16th19th of September. Keep an eye on the DVFA website for the latest updates for our Conference planning. The conference agenda is posted on the website and additional forms and latest information will be updated as soon as it is released.

We are very excited about the Delaware Fire

by Ron O’Neal, President, DVFA

This is a very busy time for the DVFA and I’m proud to report the progress being made on a number of fronts. First, the planned office move, thanks to a number of individuals who put forth tremendous effort, has been completed and is in full operation. Secondly, the Fallen Firefighter Memorial Committee has scheduled a service for April 27, 2024, to honor Laura Madara of Station 88, Selbyville. This is the first in a number of ceremonies scheduled to pay respects to those lost while serving the Delaware Fire Service.

I was excited to see the kick-off of the Delaware Fire Caucus went well on March 12,

by Stacy Northam-Smith, President LADVFA

I had the opportunity to attend the recent DVFArecruitment and retention seminar. One thing that was touched on early in the day, and that stuck with me, was that we should never stop sharing why we joined. I think it is also important to share why we stay. I joined because my parents were involved, and I grew up at the firehouse. I did not know any better! But why do I stay? Because I cannot think of a better way to serve

Service Caucus which kicked off on March 12th at Legislative Hall in Dover, DE. More than thirty (30) legislators have signed on as Caucus Members. We have several bills moving through the legislative process at the time of this article being written that we are supporting:

• HB127 - Gives the Counties of Delaware the ability to implement a fee or tax to help fund the fire service.

• HB289 - Increases the funeral benefit from 7k to 8k dollars.

• SB202 - Increases the line of duty death benefit to beneficiaries.

• HB323 - Extends the Criminal Mischief Act to increase the penalties to a class E felony for damages done to emergency vehicles.

• HB329 - Increases the penalties to the Move Over Law.

There’s also work being completed on draft

legislation correcting the method of the Insurance Premium Distributions throughout the state, on a bill for nationwide background checks, and a state flag request for any fire service member with 10 years’service at the request of the family. We are also requesting for an additional $100,000 per company within the Grant in Aid process and seeking 5 million dollars in additional funds toward the Revolving Loan program.

Our next quarterly DVFAexecutive meeting is June 9th at the Delaware State Fire School. Please contact the office if we can be any of assistance to you.

Norman ‘Jay’Jones

Jr., DVFAExecutive Manager

Norm912@aol.com

Office - 302-734-9390

Fax - 302-734-9404

DVFAPresident

2024, and am looking forward to working with those Legislators who have pledged to support our cause. More than 30 Senators and Representatives have signed on as Caucus members and are prepared to be our voice in Dover.

By the time you read this, a number of pieces of Legislation concerning the Fire Service will be out of Committee and into Chambers for discussion and voting. One of those will surely be the controversial House Bill 127, which “provides each county with the ability to impose, by duly enacted ordinance, a fire protection fee”.

From the beginning, the DVFAhas supported the concept of this Bill, realizing its potential effect on sustainable funding. We also understood that HB127 was not popular with Legislators and did not have the support at that time to move forward. DVFAleadership was willing to wait until the findings of the

statewide audit process had been completed and published before taking the next step in fully supporting the Bill and expressed that opinion at our March Executive meeting.

During subsequent discussions with State Representatives, we learned that HB127 had possibly garnered enough support in both Chambers for passage, including no objection from the Governor’s office. With this information in hand, the DVFAExecutive Committee changed its stance and made the determination through a motion to support the movement of HB127 through Legislative Hall.

While realizing this may or may not be a popular decision, we base our support of HB127 on the long-term effects that this, and future monetary pieces of legislation, may have on the financial stability of the Fire Service and its ability to provide assistance to the citizens of Delaware.

LADVFACorner

my community. I VOLUNTEER! We always need to find opportunities to inform others that we are volunteers. We are a volunteer organization, and we need to make sure that we are putting that front and center via word of mouth and through social media.

We are experiencing some growth and some auxiliaries are attracting new members. Even one new member is growth in a positive direction. We can all learn to be recruitment specialist. Connect and engage! Sharing the benefits of joining our VOLUNTEER organizations and all that we have to offer is important.

As the mid-point of my term comes into view, I am continuously amazed at how busy

the auxiliaries in this state are. When I attend the various county meetings, I see the fliers on the tables, and I hear the report outs from the auxiliaries. I scroll through Facebook, and I see all the posts for the many events. And then I attend the handful of banquets and various meetings and hear the fruits of your labor and the gifts of money that you bestow upon your fire companies. Like the song says, “you work hard for the money!” And you work hard to support your fire companies and your communities. Your work does not go unnoticed. We support and serve, and you all do that so well!

Townhouse 3-Alarm Fire in Bayberry

On December31, 2023, at 2135 hours, The Odessa Fire Company was dispatched to a townhouse fire on the 1600 block of Matisse Drive in Bayberry North. Upon arrival, Deputy 24 reported a threestory middle of the row townhouse with fire showing. Deputy 24 established command and requested the second and third alarm assignments. Crews on scene used hand lines and two aerials to extinguish the fire with mutual aid from Aetna Hook Hose & Ladder, Brandywine Hundred, Christiana Fire, Delaware City, Goodwill, Minquadale Townsend, VolunteerHose, Wilmington Manor, Port Penn, New Castle County EMS, St. Francis Rehab, New Castle County Field Comm, New Castle County police, and Red Cross. Belvedere Fire Company covered up The Odessa Fire Company. The fire is underinvestigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshall’s office.

- Submitted by Jennifer Wilson

Mutual Aid Agricultural Fire

- Submitted by Larry Gum

Fire Destroys Trailer

The Harrington, Farmington, Houston Fire Companies and Kent County EMS were dispatched to a working trailerfire on Lewis Pond Lane. Units arrived on scene and found a fully involved single wide trailer. Crews placed hand lines and brought the fire under control in approximately 45 minutes. Chief Kenny Brode ordered

primary, secondary searches, and secured utilities. All units then cleared the scene and the scene was turned overto the Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office forinvestigation. There were no firefighterorcivilian injuries reported.

- Submitted by Kenny Brode

Crews Fight Fire in Cold Conditions

January 19, 2024, L19 responded to Box CC 2402 and arrived as the Third Due Special Service.

- Submitted Patrick Langshaw

Millsboro Fire along with Georgetown, Dagsboro, Frankford, Indian River, and Milton assisted to control a large agricultural fire.

Fire at Besche’s Furniture

Kitchen Fire at BorderCafe in Stanton

On the morning of February 23, 2024, a fire broke out at Border Cafe Restaurant at Stanton and Christiana Road. The employees of the restaurant had to evacuate the building. The fire started in the kitchen and spread to the roof of the building. Several Fire Companies of New Castle County helped to put the fire out.

- Submitted by Regina M. Olliver

On February 14, 2024, Georgetown Fire Company, along with Milton, Lewes, Georgetown E.M.S. and Sussex County E.M.S. were alerted fora building fire on Lewes-Georgetown Hwy. at Besche’s Furniture. Fire Chief Mark Rogers responded to find a warehouse/showroom building with smoke showing from the A& B sides. Crews made entry through the “A” side to find fire in an HVAC unit with extension into the ceiling. Crews from Ladder77 made access to the roof to check forextension. Crews from Lewes and Milton made access, assisting interiorcrews. The fire was brought undercontrol in about 20 minutes. It is being investigated by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

South Bowers Assist with Structure Fire

On February 17, 2024, Station 57 assisted Station 42 with a structure fire. Crews conducted a search of the second floor.

- Photo courtesy of Skylar Webb; Submitted by Amand Hudson

Methane Fueled GeneratorFire

- Submitted by Larry Gum

Millsboro Fire along with Georgetown, Laurel, and Dagsboro responded to methane fueled generatorbuilding fire. The fire was contained afterextensive interiordamage.

Historic Camp Area Suffers MajorFire NearLaurel

On January 4, 2024, Laurel, Blades, and Seaford Fire Departments along with Sussex County E.M.S. were alerted fora house fire on Cottage Circle, north of Laurel. The Laurel Camp is an area of small houses in very close proximity, and built over125 years ago, used forreligious camp meetings. Overthe years, it has deteriorated and many of the homes in poorrepairmaking it a severe hazard for fire. Laurel Fire Chief Jeff Hill responded as Command, headed to the scene and a glow from the sky could be seen miles away. Fire Chief Jason Hudson assumed Operations and began an attack from the “A” side of the fully involved house. An exposure of a second house presented itself with only couple of feet of separation. Deputy Chief Mike Lowe, advanced handlines to the “C” side of the structure and were able to prevent significant damage to the second structure. Watersupply was limited due to access to the scene and narrow streets. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

Town of Bethany Beach Faulty Microwave

Wednesday, January 3, 2024, the Millville VolunteerFire Company was dispatched to assist the Bethany Beach VFC with a reported house fire in the 700 block of Radial Drive in the Town of Bethany Beach. Units arrived to find an odorof smoke inside the residence and found the issue was a faulty microwave oven. Units operated forapproximately 30 minutes before returning to service.

- Photos by Dennis Ayres & Mike Suit; Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Southwestern Companies Respond to Chicken Coop Fire

December31, 2023, Laurel, Delmarand Sharptown (MD) Fire Departments were alerted fora Commercial Building Fire on Mt. Pleasant Road, north of Old Airport Road.

Sherwood Forest Fire Destroy House & Car

On Friday morning, December1, 2023, the Indian River, Lewes, Millsboro, and Milton fire companies were alerted fora working structure on Robin Hoods Loop in the Sherwood Forest development. Initial arriving emergency response units identified a house and carfully involved with heavy fire showing with exposure concerns. The vehicle involved was parked next to the garage with a ruptured fuel tank. Initial arriving apparatus were requested to activate fire suppression lines to address the vehicle and residential structure, as well as, protection of exposures. Crew assignments included fire suppression, watersupply establishments. The Fire Police maintained access to the scene, traffic control.

- Submitted by Steven Deery Jr.

Fire Limited to 2nd FloorBathroom

February 28, 2024, the Wilmington Fire Department responded to W. 20th Street fora report of a structure fire. Upon arrival, Wilmington Firefighters found a moderate smoke condition inside the dwelling. Afire was found in a 2nd floorbathroom ceiling and was quickly extinguished. Crews checked the residence and accounted forall occupants. Fire damage was held to the area of origin, with minorsmoke damage to the remainderof the 2nd floor

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Fire Chief Jeff Hill responded and arrived to find a 60 X 700 ft. chicken house heavily involved in fire. Asecond alarm was requested. Crews placed attack lines in service protecting exposures. Soon after, with FFZac Lecates handlines to the “C” side to begin and attack and Asst. Chief Mark Sheridan began an attack from the “A”and “D” corners. The fire was contained in about one hourand turned overto the Delaware State Fire Marshal.

Frankford House

Heavily Damaged

Saturday, February 10, 2024, the Millville VFD was dispatched, along with the Dagsboro VFD to assist the Frankford VFC with a reported house fire on ThatcherStreet in Frankford. Units arrived to find a large two-story balloon frame constructed residential dwelling with smoke showing from the rearof the dwelling. Fire was found on all floors including a large attic space. The fire presented several challenges including the balloon frame construction, allowing the fire to spread and interiorspace was converted into several apartments, and complicating access. The fire was brought undercontrol in approximately one hour. The fire is underinvestigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

Chicken Coop Up in Flames

- Submitted by Tom Williams

- Photo by Megan Hudson, Marc Bognar, & Greg Tietmeyer; Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Rescue 47 operating at a chicken house fire on Andrewville Road on February 11, 2024. Stations 78, 50, 52, Kent County Paramedics (KM8), State Fire Marshal’s Office also responded.

2-CarAccident NearClarksville

Sunday, February 4, 2024, at 1723 hours the Millville Volunteer Fire Company along with the Sussex County Paramedics were dispatched to a motorvehicle collision at the intersection of Burbage Road and Powell Farm Road south of Clarksville. Units arrived to find a two-vehicle collision with both vehicles coming to rest in a ditch. Safety OfficerA.J. Moore had command of the incident. The scene was turned over to the Delaware State Police forinvestigation. - Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Intersection Collison with School Bus, Work Van and SUVon Kirkwood Highway

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

February 28, 2024, at 1824 hours the New Castle County Paramedics were dispatched at assist Mill Creek Fire Company fora motorvehicle collision with entrapment and multiple patients at the intersection of Kirkwood Highway and Limestone Road. Due to multiple patients and entrapment, an additional rescue responded from Cranston Heights Fire Company and ambulance from Belvedere Fire Company. Units arrived to find a threevehicle collision involving a school bus, work van, and SUV. One patient trapped in the van. The entrapped patient was quickly extricated by fire department personnel. Total of 4 patients were treated and transported by paramedics and EMTs from Mill Creek and Belvedere Fire Companie s to a local trauma center

Person Trapped in Rollover

Seaford Fire assisted Bridgeville Fire with a motorvehicle coll ision with entrapment. Crews utilized rescue 87 tie back kit to stabilize the vehicle.

- Submitted by Trevor Holmes

Laurel Accident Hits Tree and DriverExtricated

January 14, 2024, Laurel Fire Department and Sussex County EMS were alerted fora motorvehicle crash at on Sharptown Road approximately two miles west of Laurel. Reports were one occupant was trapped and the call was upgraded alerting Sharptown (MD) fora Rescue and EMS unit. Laurel Fire Chief responded as the Incident Commander. Upon arrival the driver of a Ford Expedition had left the roadway and struck a tree trapping herunderthe dash. Capt. Eric Beyerset up forthe Rescue and Sharptown Fire Chief Billy White was assigned Extrication Officer. The victim was removed in about ten minutes. She was transported to Tidal Health and latertransferred to Christiana Medical Center.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Multi-Vehicle Accident on Roth Bridge

Tuesday, February 6, 2024, the New Castle County Paramedics and Delaware State Police Aviation Unit, were dispatched to assist Delaware City Fire Company, Port Penn Fire Company, and Odessa Fire Company with an MVC on Route 1 northbound on top of the Roth Bridge. Units arrived on scene to find a multi-vehicle collision between a construction truck which had rolled overand three passengers in vehicles. Paramedics assisted with the evaluation of 5 total of patients, three of which were transported to the local trauma center.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

3-CarAccident on South DuPont Highway in Harrington

Tuesday, January 23, 2024, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched to a vehicle accident on South DuPont Highway, northbound of Royal Farms. Units arrived on scene and found a three-vehicle accident with minorinjuries. The driverin one of the vehicles was not injured but could not get out of vehicle due to the damage. Firefighters removed both drivers side doors and the B-Post and assisted the uninjured elderly driverout of the vehicle. Fire Chief Kenny B rode was in command. All subjects were evaluated on scene and all refused transport. The scene was turned overto the Harrington PD forfurtherinvestigation.

- Submitted by Kenny Brode

Clarksville 2-Vehicle Accident Several Injuries

Early morning on March 5, 2024, the Millville VolunteerFire Com pany along with the Sussex County Paramedics were dispatched to the intersection of Vines Creek Road and Holts Landing Road in Clarksville fora motorvehicle collision. Units arrived to find a two-vehicle collision with several patients requiring medical care. Two patients were transported to local medical facilities fortreatment. The scene was turned overto the Delaware State Police forinvestigation.

- Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

DriverEjected From Single Car Accident

Station 47, Ambulance 78, Kent County Paramedics and Trooper 2 were alerted foran MVC with ejection on Todds Chapel Rd. The vehicle’s driverwas transported to a local hospital by Trooper2.

- Submitted by Tom Williams

Collison Caused Fire, Entrapment and Multiple Injuries

January 27, 2024, New Castle County Paramedics, Christiana Fire Company, Wilmington ManorFire Company, Minquas Fire Company of Newport, and Delaware State Police responded to the intersection of BearChristiana Road and Rivers End Drive fora motorvehicle collision with a subject trapped and a vehicle on fire. Responding units confirmed reports and advised of five patients One patient was trapped in a vehicle forapproximately 25 minutes

Multi-CarAccident with Entrapment

December31, 2023, just before 0200 hours the Five Points and Minquas Fire Co. along with ambulances from Belvedere and Elsmere Fire Companies were alerted fora motorvehicle accident in the 300 block of Boxwood Road with multiple injuries. New Castle County Paramedics also responded. On arrival several vehicles were involved with entrapment. Crews worked to extricate two victims from one of the cars. New Castle County Police investigated.

- Submitted by Chuck Hayes

while rescue crews worked to extricate him. New Castle County Paramedics treated five patients ranging from 2 to 42 years old in varying levels of criticality, and transported all 5 patients to Christiana Hospital in Newark.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

2-CarAccident in Kent County

Wednesday, February 7, 2024, the Harrington Fire Company, Kent County EMS and Delaware State Police Aviation were dispatched to a vehicle accident at the intersection of South DuPont Hwy. and Fairgrounds Rd. Units arrived and found a two-vehicle accident and two subjects suffering from minorinjuries. Crews secured the vehicles forany hazards and cleared debris from the roadway. Both subjects were evaluated on scene and transported to a local hospital fortreatment. The scene was placed undercontrol and turned overto the Delaware State Police forfurtherinvestigation. Asst. Chief Derrick Brode, was in command of accident.

- Submitted by Kenny Brode

Two Separate CarAccidents at Same Location

Laurel responds two separate MVC’s at the Same Location on January 7, 2024. Laurel Fire Dept. and Sussex County EMS were alerted foran MVC on Laurel Road, just east of Old Stage Road. Chief EngineerMark Oliphant responded to the scene and assumed Command upon arrival. Oliphant found an S.U.V. had left the highway and ran into a ditch positioned face down. Beside the S.U.V. were three othervehicles involved as a result of a second crash that took place as they were attempting to avoid the first accident. Two patients were transported to Tidal Health and fourothers refused treatment.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Vacant Row House Front Façade Collapse

The Wilmington Fire Department responded to E 4th Street fora report of a partial collapse of a vacant house. Upon arrival of the fire department, it was discovered that the front wall of a vacant residential structure had collapsed into the street. This structure had been vacant for some time, and was a row of structures that had been demolished many years ago. Asearch of the rubble and found no occupants. Delmarva Powerwas requested to secure a broken gas line and the Department of Licenses and Inspections arranged forsecuring the building.

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

U.S. Postal Van Wedged in Sink Hole

Wilmington Firefighters were alerted to a collapse of the stree t with a vehicle sinking in the hole; in the 800 block of W9th Street at Trinity Vicinity Section of the city. Upon arrival, fire department personnel found a large portion of the street had collapsed and the rearportion of a US Postal van had fallen into the hole and an SUVwas at the edge of the hole. The hole measured approximately 10 feet by 15 feet and appeared to be at least 10 feet deep. Personnel also discovered a pressurized waterleak f rom a large watermain inside the hole causing the hole to continue to sink. The crews began to evacuate 10 houses and move othervehicles parked in the block as a precaution. Upon the arrival of the waterdepartment secured to the main and Delmarva Powerdetermined there were no electrical orgas lines involved in the street collapse. Repairs will be provided by the Public Works Department.

Construction Lift Stalls with OperatorInside

Friday, February 2, 2024, WFD units responded to the block of N. Orange Street foran occupied, stalled construction lift. Upon arrival, the lift was found to be at the 8th floor. While the WFD Special Operations team prepared fora high angle operation, command requested a mutual aid towerladderto assist with operations. Upon the arrival of Elsmere Tower16, the occupants were safely removed to ground level. There were no injuries. Thank you to our mutual partners forthe assistance.

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

Storm Response Crews

On January 8, 2024, as a storm with heavy rain and highs winds was battering the area. Five Points members and paid staff were

staffing up foremergencies A-17, E-17, Squad 17, L-17, TSU 17 and the command truck. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes

NCC*EMS

NCC*EMS Recognizes Recent Promotions:

Marisa Brancati Promoted to Paramedic First Class PFC

Brancati is a four-year veteran and 2020 graduate of the 3rd Paramedic Academy. She is currently assigned as a relief parame dic on EMS platoon 4, in the operations section of the Division.

Sarah Pedrick Promoted to Paramedic Corporal

CPLPedrick is an eight-year veteran and member of the 2nd Paramedic Academy. CPLPedrick currently serves as a Field Train ing Officer (FTO) for the Division, is a member of the EMS Bike Team, and is the current station liaison for EMS station 7, where she presently serves. In her free time, you can catch her volunteering her time as an assistant field hockey coach for Smyrna High School.

Jamielee Majewski Promoted to Paramedic First Class

PFC Majewski is a four-year veteran and member of the 3rd Paramedic Academy. PFC Majewski currently serves as a high scho ol mentor, is involved in the Division’s Community Outreach Program, and serves on the Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest Performance Improvement committee. When she’s not fielding calls on Medic 7 , you can find her responding and reporting on calls as one of the Divisions (3) Assistant Public Information Officers.

Sion Williams Promoted to Paramedic First Class

PFC Williams is a four-year veteran and member of the 3rd Paramedic Academy. He is an active member of the Tactical Emerg ency Medical Services (TEMS) Team and assists with the Division’s Vi al of L.I.F.E. community outreach program. He currently serves at Medic 1, located in the City of Wilmington.

Matthew Casson Promoted to Paramedic First Class

PFC Casson is a four-year veteran paramedic, who received his paramedic certification in 2019, through the Good Fellowship Ambulance and EMS Training Institute, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. In addition to his current assignment at Medic 1, he serves on the EMS Bike Team and as a member of the EMS Division’s Honor Guard.

Christine Huovinen Promoted to Paramedic Corporal

CPLHuovinen is a seven-year veteran who obtained her paramedic certification in Cecil County, Maryland, while volunteering for the local fire department in Bel Air, Maryland. In addition, CPLHuovinen possesses a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience, from the Universi ty of Delaware. She currently serves as a high school mentor for the Division and in her free time enjoys volunteering her time with the group “Athletes Serving Athletes” - Submitted by Abigail Haas

SeniorCorporal ChristopherReed Celebrates 30 Years of Service

February 28, 2024, marked 30 years since SeniorCorporal ChristopherReed began his careerwith the New Castle County Emergency Medical Services Division. He was hired on February 28, 1994, and afterreceiving his paramedic certification, he would go on to spend much of his careerat EMS Station 3 in the Newark area. SeniorCorporal Reed currently calls Paramedic Station 5, at the Lieutenant John B. PotterParamedic Station in Middletown, home. Throughout his career, he obtained certification as an American Heart Association CPR Instructorand Field Training

An Honorable Role forPlatoon 4

Members from NCCEMS Platoon 4 who play an active role in the presidential stand-by details recently took time to visit the White House. Learning first-hand the rich history and solid foundation which has rooted ourcountry, since 1776, we can betterunderstand the importance of oursmall role in such details.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Officer, working to mentorand train many of current paramedics in the division. He is a decorated paramedic with multiple commendations, unit citations, sudden cardiac arrest survivorcitations, and letters of recommendation from the public. The Emergency Medical Services Division congratulates SeniorCorporal ChristopherReed on his achievement of 30 years of service to the citizens of New Castle County. We recognize yourcommitment to the profession, and you continue to be a valued memberof the EMS Division.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Paramedic Kimberly Garrison Recognized During Coining Ceremony

Paramedic Kimberly Garrison was recognized by the Delaware Tech nical Community College Paramedic Program during theirofficial program completion “Coining Ceremony” on January 25, 2024. Graduates of DelTech’s 28th and 29th Paramedic Classes were recognized and awarded theirclass coin. New Castle County EMS, Kent County Department of Public Safety, Sussex County EMS, and Delaware State Police Aviation Section all had graduates being recognized. Paramedic Garrison was hired during herfinal semesters of the program and transitioned seamlessly into the field setting.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

PFC Collins Awarded Distinguished Graduate

New Castle County Paramedic First Class KristopherCollins was recently awarded the “Distinguished Graduate” of his OfficerCandidate School Class. PFC Collins is a memberof the Delaware Army National Guard where he serves at the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He also serves New Castle County EMS as a Field Training Officer. We commend PFC Collins forthis recognition and his continued work with the Army National Guard.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

SeniorLt. Dudley Celebrates 40 Years of Service

SeniorLieutenant Dudley Celebrates 40 Years of Service on January 23, 2024, S/LTJoseph J. Dudley marked 40 years of service with the New Castle County Emergency Medical Services Division. Paramedic 560 began his careerin the City of Wilmington, at Medic 1. He would go on to be known as Command 2 and lateras ALS-12 upon his promotion to Lieutenant. He has held many roles throughout his decorated career, to include shift commanderin the operations branch; quality assurance/quality improvement, executive officer, academy coordinatorand office of support services, all within the administrative branch. He continues to play a pivotal role coordinating both the EMS Division’s HonorGuard and Pipes & Drums. S/LTDudley is an active life memberof the Talleyville Fire Company, and you can often find him off the job, putting in even more scene time. He has had many roles within the fire department, up to and including Captain, Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief. When not serving the public, you might catch him curating works of art with his incredible woodworking skills orhoning his musical talents on his chanter. The Emergency Medical Servi ces Division congratulates S/LTDudley on 40 years of service to the citizens of New Castle County. This milestone is a feat that only he has achieved, and he has certainly set the barhigh forthe profession.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

DOWNLOAD THE APP!!! Sometimes we’re at the right place, at the right time. Earlierthis year, Paramedic Katherine Babingerwas off duty at herresidence, when herPulsePoint app alerted, indicating a person in cardiac arrest nearby, who was

Save Lives with the PulsePoint App!

in need of CPR. She immediately responded from herresidence to the patient’s side and began chest compressions in an attempt to resuscitate the subject until the on-duty EMS personnel arrived on scene and assumed care of the patient. The EMS Division commends herforherwillingness to act when the need arises, even when off duty. Every yearNew Castle County sees cases of survival, because someone elected to download the PulsePoint app to theirpersonal phone and when alerted to a nearby cardiac arrest, they chose to act. If you know CPR, please considerdownloading this

tool to yourdevice, it could save someone’s life, maybe even yourown.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Carissa LancasterObtains Delaware Paramedic Certification

Paramedic Carissa Lancastersuccessfully completed the Delaware Paramedic field certification process, receiving herbadge and p aramedic insignia from Chief Logemann at EMS Headquarters on Monday, January 8, 2024. Paramedic Lancasteris a graduate of the 4th Paramedic Academy and obtained herparamedic certification

from the Good Fellowship Ambulance & EMS Training Institute, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Paramedic Lancasteris from the Port Penn area and priorto the 4th Academy, worked as an EMT. She is currently assigned to Platoon 1 as a relief paramedic.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Paramedic First Class Jack Warrick Retires

Paramedic First Class Jack Warrick Retires with 30 years of Service on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, PFC Jack Warrick walked out of EMS station 9 from his last shift as a New Castle County Paramedic. Hired on February 22, 1994, PFC Warrick graduated in 1995 from the Medical Center of Delaware and Kent General Hospital in Dover, in the first everjoint paramedic education program between the two hospitals. During his decorated career, he was assigned as a relief paramedic on platoon 1, to Medic 2 in the New Castle area and finished the last 17 years of his careerat Paramedic Station 9 in the City of Newark. PFC Warrick was one of the inaugural members of the EMS Division’s Honor Guard, served on the Vehicle Replacement

Committee, and was a CPR instructor. His accomplishments are many, to include: (3) unit letters of commendation, (3) distinguished unit citations, (17) sudden cardiac arrest save citations, a New Castle County VolunteerFire Chief’s Association Lifesaving Award, and (21) complimentary letters from the public. His public service extends beyond the EMS Division, as he has been an active memberof the New Castle County VolunteerFire Service since 1990, where he has had active involvement in the Cranston Heights, Mill Creek and Christiana Fire Companies. He has held the positions of Assistant Chief at Christiana; Director, Fire Captain and Assistant Chief with the Mill Creek

Fire Company. Congratulations Paramedic 542, enjoy yourmuch deserved retirement!

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Congratulations Corporal Michael Ferrero

Corporal Michael Ferrero graduates from Command and Leadership on Monday, February 5, 2024, CPLFerrero was recognized at the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership graduation ceremony, in East Brunswick, New Jersey. The intense 16-week program requires substantial out of class study, group work, and was in addition to CPLFerrero’s normal shift assignment. The curriculum was developed through the Unites States Military Academy at West Point in collaboration with highly experienced law enforcement practitioners and specialists who have tailored the content to public safety. The program studies leadership as a science with logic, critical thinking, leadersh ip theory and methodology. Graduates of the program were from Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland. The EMS Division extends its gratitude to CPLFerrero forhis continual drive towards furthering himself as a leaderwithin the organization and congratulates him on his hard-earned accomplishment. - Submitted by Abigail Haas

McDonald’s Goes Up in Flames

Thursday, January 18, 2024, New Castle County Paramedics were dispatched to assist Talleyville Fire Company with a commercial structure fire at the McDonald’s Restaurant on Concord Pike in Talleyville, New Castle County Paramedics evaluated two patients and provided medical support throughout the fireground operation.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Matt Troutman Recognized as a Joshua M Freeman Award Winner SCEMS

Sussex County EMS (SCEMS) Education Coordinator

Matt Troutman was recently recognized during the 2024 Freeman First Responders Award for his initiative and leadership in achieving accreditation for SCEMS simulation program.

SCEMS implemented high-fidelity simulation into our education programs in 2008. Over the past 15 years, the simulation team, our FTOs and the Quality and Standards division have sought to improve patient outcomes and provider confidence by replicating calls and procedures that translate to accurate positive outcomes when performed in real time under stress. To ensure that the program was of the highest standard the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) was contacted to validate the program.

The SSH is a professional accreditation organization that evaluates how simulation is implemented into an organization’s education structure and determines, based on pre-set qualifications, whether that organization meets these set standards. Over the past 3 years, the simulation team has strived to ensure that all their practices, procedures, policies, and simulations met these standards. An application was submitted to be

pre-qualified for an on site visit and board review by the SSH. On June 5th, the SSH sent two site reviewers to our new headquarters to spend an entire day with county and SCEMS leadership and our simulation team where they reviewed policies, witnessed an educational simulation session, and discussed the future of the program.

After a final board review process, the SSH granted full accreditation to Sussex County EMS in Teaching and Education as of July 13, 2023. Sussex County EMS is the first EMS agency in the WORLD to achieve this accreditation. In Delaware, SCEMS joins Christiana Care, AI DuPont, and Beebe Healthcare in this accreditation and nationally, SCEMS joins Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Mayo Clinic to name a few.

Our team’s efforts, under the leadership of Matt, have allowed SCEMS to provide the ultimate training opportunities for all of Sussex County’s EMS providers, law enforcement, and partnering hospitals, advancing patient care. These efforts align with the SCEMS motto of “Caring People, Quality Service” and our commitment to patient care and.

Chris Hilliard Promoted to Health and Safety Coordinator

Sussex County EMS congratulates Chris Hilliard on his promotion to the Health and Safety Coordinator. Chris started his careerwith SCEMS in 2015 serving as a field training officer(FTO), a memberof the bike team, memorial committee, and the safety committee which he chaired priorto his promotion. Chris is working towards his masters degree in occupational health and saftey and being credentialed as a Graduate Safety Professional (GSP). Chris lives in Georgetown with his wife, two children, and his dog Rosie. SCEMS congratulates Chris on his promotion and looks forward to his efforts in his new role.

- Submitted by Glenn Marshall

- Submitted by Glenn Marshall

Paramedic Sharon Wile Retires

ing as a flight medic during the latterpart of hercareer. Sharon’s 36 years of public service demonstrates hercommitment to the community and agencies she served. SCEMS wishes Sharon the best with herwell-deserved retirement.

- Submitted by Glenn Marshall

Shift Commander Fred Haas Retires

- Submitted by Glenn Marshall

Paramedic Sharon Wile after16 years of dedicated service with Sussex County EMS on B shift is retiring from service. Sharon was a long-time memberof the public education and outreach committee serving as the committee chairforthe last 6 years. Sharon joined SCEMS aftera 20-yearcareerwith the Delaware State Police serv-

Shift CommanderFred Haas retired after23 years of dedicated service to Sussex County EMS. Fred served in the roles of District Supervisor, Shift Commander, and as the Captain of the Hazmat team. Fred’s passion forSCEMS and hazmat will be sorely missed.

SCEMS wishes Fred the best of luck in his well-deserved retirem ent and ongoing search of the best rollercoasterride.

Halloway Terrace Fire Co.William “Bill” Maxwell, Sr.

The Holloway Terrace Fire Company sadly announces the passing of Life Member and Chief Emeritus William “Bill” J. Maxwell, Sr. on Thu rsday, February 15, 2024. Bill was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on April 6, 1944, the son of the late Harry C. & Ida (Ledo) Maxwell.

Bill dedicated his life to his family, as well as, Emergency Services in Delaware. After serving for 6 years in the United States Navy aboard the USS Prairie during the Vietnam War, Bill worked for 30 years as a paramedic with t he New Castle County Division of Medical Services, from which he retired. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Mary E. “Sis” Maxwell. He is survived by his sons, William Jr (Nicole), Harry, Michael (Tina), and Robert (Susan); 11 grandchildren, two great grandchildren; brother Paul (Jayne) and sister Marie (Mike). Visitation was held at the Holloway Terrace Fire Compan y with private interment.

-

Submitted by Randy Roberts

Clayton Firehouse Auxiliary Member - Mary Kelly

Mary G. Kelly was born on June 6, 1937, in Chestertown, Maryland, the son of the late Charles and Blanche (Gustafson) Grussing. Mary passed away on January 31, 2024. She was raised around Chestertown along with many beloved cousins and lived on a farm with her parents and siblings until she got married. Mary’s favorite places growing up were Tolchester and Betterton and Ocean City. She worked as a s ecretary for most of her life. She worked in insurance in Chestertown. She married Donald Kelley in 1960, eventually relocating to Smyrna. Mary worked for Lees Travel Ware for several years then worked at Delaware State College in the Agricultural Department. Along-time Smyrna resident, she kept busy working at the Clayton Firehouse in the Auxiliary with friends who became family. She was active in Ewells St. Pa ul for

several years then Asbury UM Church for past 40 years. She enjoyed traveling, visiting with family and friends and playing cards. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Donald Kelley, her grandson, Tyler William Gebhart, and her sister Arvida Specht.

Mary is survived by her daughter Valarie Kelley and grandson Alec Gebhart, her brother. Charles (Sonny) and his wife Paula, brother-in-law Nelson Specht, and several nieces and nephews, including her special nephew who helped in looking after her Paul Kelley.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Clayton Fire Company, PO Box 1050, Clayton, DE 19938.

- Submitted by Kevin Wilson

Clayton Vol. Fire Dept. - Thomas Galliers Ruppert

Tom was born on December 13, 1948, in Bellevue, Ohio and is the son of the late Phillip and Kathryn Rupert of Bellevue, Ohio. He is also the younger brother to Skip Ruppert (Cathy) of Ohio and an older brother to Kathy Ruppert-Henney (Jim) of Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis A. Chambers-Ruppert of 54 years; His three children Matthew Rupert (Tiffany), Amy Rupert-Cannon (Bill), and Noel Ruppert-Morris (A.J). Seven gran dchildren, Matthew (Amber), Kaitlyn (Danny), Alexandra (Montana), Wayne (Kaitlyn), Emma, Ethan, and Wyatt. Along with four great grandchildren Aayla, Scarlette, Greyson, and Lilith, as well as nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Tom spent much of his life in service to others first in the United States Marine Corps from 1968-1974, then as a past chief and lifetime member of the Clayton Volunteer Fire Co from 1981-2024. He was also a member of the Kent County Fire Chiefs Asso., the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Asso., the VFW, and American Legion. He retired from the Scott Paper Co., Dover, De in the early 1990s then went on to work for Kent Construction as a site supervisor, retiring five years ago. Since his retirement Tom has spent his time traveling with his family. woodworking in his shop, fishing and hunting with his buddies. Tom also loved spending time by the pool chatting with his family and friends,playing with his beloved dog Winston. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Clayton Fire Co. in his honor. Tom would have also wished for you to spend time with your families’creating memories, as he did with his loved ones.

- Submitted by Kevin Wilson

Felton Community Fire Company - Larry Robert Sipple

Larry Robert Sipple, of Lincoln, DE passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford surrounded by his loving family. Larry was born December 8, 1951 in Dover, DE the son of the late Arthur and Agnes (Williams) Sipple. He was a graduate of Felton High School. Larry was a Staff Sergeant in the Delaware Army - National Guard. He was sworn in as a Magistrate Judge for the State of Delaware on October 10, 2004, and he retired on March 31, 2019. Larry was a Life Member, Past Chief and Past President of the Felton Community Fire Company; a member and past Deputy Chief of the Carlisle Fire Company in Milford and Past President of the Kent County Firefighters Association. He enjoyed hunting, boating, and camping in his spare time. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Steven Sipple and his siblings Donald Sipple (Izetta), Ronald Sipple, and Shirley Hairgrove (Richard). He is survived by his wife of 32 years Connie Sipple; two children Karen Sipple and Kevin Sipple (Kelly); a brother William A. Sipple (Joyce) and a sister-in-la w Margaret (Bootsie) Sipple; grandchildren Tyler Sipple, Christopher Sipple, Ryan Sipple (Caitlyn), Sarah Sipple and Chase Sipple; and a great grandson LukeSipple. ACelebration of Larry’s Life was held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Felton Community Fire Company.

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL

Delaware State Fire School Recognizes Lifetime Instructors

At the recent Instructors Conference held at the Delaware State Fire School, five individuals were recognized as Lifetime Instructors. Instructors must be retired from active service, been an active instructorfor15 years, have an outstanding record of service to the Agency and Emergency Services Community of Delaware, as well as, dedication above and beyond the scope of regularrequired service in conducting their job as an instructor. This year’s recipients were: Jeff Eisenbrey - Houston Fire Co. and Cheswold Fire Co., Joe Vanucci-Goodwill Fire Co., of New Castle, Dick WardMillsboro Fire Co., Ed Hojnicki-Wilmington Fire Dept., Minquadale Fire Co., Goodwill Fire Co. of New Castle, Bill Simpson-Mill Creek Fire Co., Brandywine Hundred Fire Co. and Goodwill Fire Co. of New Castle.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

New Era Kicks Off at D.S.F.S.

February 24, 2024, marked the first day of ourupdated Firefighter1 & 2 course that is replacing ourold core programs. Students from Sussex, Kent, and New Castle counties came fortheirfirst day of “orientation”. DirectorDempsey kicked off the day with a few words and SeniorInstructorJeff Brown reviewed the program, rules, and guidelines they will be expected to follow. Students will have evenings at the local divisions and weekends as a group in Dover. This will allow students to have the same experience as ourprevious core courses in Dover, with the convenience of training at the local divisions. Students will also have some flexibility in making up missed coursework through IFSTA’s Resource One and mandatory skills days that may be made up at anotherdivision. The additional benefits of this course are that fire companies will have members complete core training in just a few months, ratherthan the possibility of a yearormore. Students will come out with theircore training and will have opportunities to test forseveral levels of national certification. We look forward to seeing the students’progress and success through to graduation. - Submitted by Michael Lowe

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL

Fire Commission Adopts State 709 Regulations

At the February 20th, 2024, Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission monthly meeting, the updates to the State 709 Fire Service Standards Regulations were approved as a whole. These changes included changes to training standards and live fire training requirements that will go into effect in May of this year. More information can be found on the Fire Prevention Commission website.

With this change now official, with the availability of these t rainings on our current red schedule and existing certification testing challenge dates, we are working to add courses to our regular schedule, beginning by addressing those on our waitlists. Please be patient as we are working to expand our instructor lists for these courses and certifications challenges to add more course dates and accommodate the changes made in the regulations.

What does this mean for you as a student of the Delaware State Fire School and a Fire Fighter or Fire Officer in the State?

Students who have already successfully completed the Delaware Fire Officer 1 or Fire Officer 2 courses have the training equivalencies to meet the requirements within the updated regulations. T his is with or without the issuance of a Proboard national certificati on. Anyone holding a Proboard, IFSAC, or another state’s Officers 1 or 2 certificate meeting the NFPA1021 or 1020-2025 standards, shall also meet the requirements within the regulation change.

Students who have attended our previous DSFS Core Classes

(Basic Firefighting Skills, Structural Firefighting Skills, Haz ardous Materials Response Skills, and Vehicle Rescue), meet the traini ng equivalency of Firefighter 1 and 2, but do not actually hold those certifications. Students desiring to obtain those certifications w ill need to challenge those tests, meeting all the prerequisites to rece ive them. Additional dates throughout 2024 for classes and Fire Fighter 1 & 2 certification testing challenges are being planned and will be released as soon as they are finalized. Keep an eye on our website or social media pages for updated schedules when they are made ava ilable.

Challenges for the Proboard Fire Officer levels are still avail able several times a month to those who meet the prerequisites. Firefighter 2 (or its equivalent) and Fire Instructor 1, are now the prerequisites to begin the training in the Delaware Fire Officer 1 program to better align with the national standards, also now adopted by the Fire Prevention Commission. Students and training officers can verify their DSFS training by requesting their transcript through the Transcript Request forms found on our website or through our new client portal.

We are working diligently to help our firefighters in the State meet any requirements as set by the State Fire Prevention Commission to the best of our abilities.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL

Community Risk Reduction Week

Community Risk Reduction Week is January 15, 2024 through January 21, 2024, and is a grass-roots effort by an informal group of fire safety professionals from across the nation. The idea is to help promote the awareness of CRR within the fire service by having a week where everyone can do programs and demonstrate its importance to the fire service.

In 2008, Vision 20/20 held its first meeting, bringing together hundreds of experts from across the nation to discuss the gaps in fire prevention. This landmark meeting resulted in identifying five specific strategies that needed to be addressed to help fill the gaps in fire prevention.

CRR Week is focused on addressing strategy one, advocacy. Advocating for fire prevention is difficult when fire chiefs

have to deal with competing priorities, both within a fire depa rtment and within their municipality. This strategy focuses on helping to develop tools and information that can be used when advocating for more resources to devote to fire prevention.

The fire service realizes it cannot complete their mission alone, therefore, partnerships or stakeholders are an important part of CRR. Many local entities have a part in prevention including Senior Centers, Insurance professionals, healthcare and government officials.

Think about what you can do to play a part in reducing risks within your community and be a part of our team.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

FDNYCaptain Ceriello Guest Instructorat DSFS

On January 27 and 28, 2024, as a change from theirnorm DSFS invited FDNY Veteran Captain John Ceriello to teach ourFire Ground Operations - High-Rise course. Captain Ciriello brought insight not only from his experience working in FDNYin Brooklyn and 11 years in Special Operations but also as a key player in NISTstudies and with the Underwriters Laboratory on numerous projects surrounding firefighting. The topics covered in the classroom and on the training grounds: Airentrainment (effects of hydrodynamics with hose stream use) with ourwatermapping prop, Standpipe system operations, Hose packs and deployment in the high-rise setting, Pressurizing stairwells foraccess and egress, The use of Smoke Curtains, Fire dynamics in the High rise setting and discussed NISTgovernor’s island case studies. Students completed the class with a little more than ourusual course content, thanks to the experience and expertise of Captain Ceriello.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Burn Awareness Week 2024

Burn injuries continue to be one of the leading causes of accidental death and injury in our Nation where tragically, children, the elderly, and the disabled are especially vulnerable to burn injuries, and almost one-third of all burn injuries occur in children under the age of 15.

In the United States, the CDC reports 276,086 people received medical care for treatment of unintentional burn injuries in 2020, with 3,028 deaths from fire and smoke inhalation. Of 87 hospitals reporting to the American Burn Association registry 91,875 people were treated in hospitals for burn-related injuries with 32% of those being for scalds.

Today, 96.8% of those who suffer burn injuries will survive. Unfortunately, many of those survivors will sustain serious scarring, life-long physical disabilities, adjustment difficulties.

National Burn Awareness Week, an initiative of the American Burn Association, is a coming together of burn, fire, and life safety educators to make the public aware of the frequency, devastation, and causes of burn injury, as well as, consistent and authoritative measures to prevent these injuries and how to best care for those that are injured.

Whereas, compared to the overall population, children under five were 2.0 times as likely to be seen for burn injuries at a hospital emergency department.

The theme for 2024 National Burn Awareness Week, is Flammable Liquids, where a common risk of injury exists from flammable liquids.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Controlled Burn Drill Controlled Burn Drill

On Saturday, March 16, 2024, the Seaford VolunteerFire Department held a controlled burn on W. Stein Hwy in the area of GreenbriarRd. The Bridgeville and Blades fire departments also assisted with the drill. Instructors were able to give valuable train-

Vehicle Fire Training with Juniors

Millsboro and Frankford Fire Co. juniors and joint training on vehicle fires.

- Submitted by Larry Gum

ing drills to members. Several search and rescue drills, along with live interiorfire training were performed. Afterall training wa s held, the structure was allowed to burn to the ground. The drill lasted about 5 hours.

- Fire News photos by Wayne Barrall

TRAINING

Hands On Training in Clayton FC

“Training is the backbone of any progressive fire company” stated Clayton Deputy Chief Alex Carrow. On Wednesday, February 25, 2024, members of the Clayton Fire Company took the time to review the rescue tools carried on the equipment. “With the weather being coolerwe look forways to train and make it worth ourmembers time”, stated PIO Kevin L. Wilson. “Putting hands on equipment that is not used all the time, is valuable forourmembers who will operate at the scene of an MVC orotherrescue incident”. The members reviewed the use of air bags, rescue struts, large wench, and various hurst tools.

- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO

Pump Operators Training in Frankford

On Sunday March 3, 2024, several members of the Millville VolunteerFire Company attended the final day of a Delaware State Fire School Pump Operators Course. The course was held in-service and was hosted by the Frankford VFC. Members TylerBare, Marc Bognar, Gerald Murphy, and Bob Rausch attend the course. Past Chief EngineerJack Melson was kind enough to give up his

Sunday to chaufferEngine 84-6 forthe day and pass on some of his vast pumping knowledge to all in attendance. We would like to thank the Frankford VFC forhosting the class and the instructors from the Delaware State Fire School forgiving ourmembers the knowledge needed to start theirpump operator’s competency program. - Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Millsboro Burn Training

Millsboro Fire Co. had on a residential structure scheduled for burning. Engine and Truck work along with search, rescue & hand lines.

- Submitted by Larry Gum

Hands-Only CPR Class

Monday, March 4, 2024, the Clayton Fire Company conducted a class in handline hose deployment. From pulling the line off the engine, moving it to a location, and then placing the hose back on the engine. Lt. Jason Sacco stated, “Properhose handling is one of the most basic things we do in the fire service and one of the most important we do. Getting wateron a fire quickly and efficiently is the best way to extinguish the fire and limit damage”. Members practiced removing a handline from the rearof E-45, moving the line to a predetermined location with the assistance of members to ensure the line is kink free, and then repacking the line on the engine. Chief Moorhead stated, “Hose handling is not something that is fun orexciting, however, it is important for ourmembers to understand that it is one of the most important things we do and the betterwe are the betterwe are at assist the citizens of ourfire district”. The group of firefighters attending the training tonight ranged from 14 to 70 years old all working together. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO

The EMS Community Outreach team was out again teaching “Hands Only” CPR in ourcommunity. On Monday, February 19, 2024, ourteam was at The Real OurDaily Bread of MOT, in Middletown to teach handsonly CPR to theirvolunteers. members of this community-based non-profit organization learned life-saving skills. This program was even more important, as Our Daily Bread is proactive and has an Automated External Defibrillator(AED) inside theirmain dining room. Our “Lend a Hand/Save a Life” Hands-Only CPR program is available to yourcommunity ororganization. Contact ourCommunity Outreach Team at 302-395-2736 or email Lorraine.K.Williams@newcastlede.gov formore information.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Hose Handling Training at Clayton Fire Company

POCUS Now Available in all New Castle County Paramedic

Vehicles

Crosslay Training Drill at MVFC

The Millville VolunteerFire Company conducted a company drill t o review ourCrosslay hose loads. The MVFC has recently modified its Crosslay loads so that the hose “flakes” off the top of both “stacks” of hose. The loads are ideally deployed by two personnel. Lt. Ty Webb led the training session and is credited forimproving ourprevious operations. Thank you, Ty foryourtireless efforts that support ourfirefighters!

- Photo by Dennis Ayres; Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

December27, 2023, NCCEMS expanded its use of pre-hospital ultrasound in the clinical setting. Priorto that date, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) devices were carried only on field supervisorvehicles. With additional funding obtained through the Recorderof Deeds technology fund, POCUS devices are now deployed on all paramedic vehicles in New Castle County. In addition, training was held throughout the month of Novemberto expand POCUS use. Previously, paramedics could only assess forcardiac wall movement during certain cardiac arrest rhythms. With this additional training, paramedics can now use ultrasound to assess blood flow in otherareas of the body, in addition to cardiac wall movement.

- Submitted by Abigail Haas

Delaware Fire Service Caucus Meeting Held in Dover

The inaugural meeting of the Delaware Fire Service Caucus was held at Legislative Hall in Dover, Delaware on March 12, 2024. This 40-member bipartisan caucus is led by Co-Chairs Representative Short, Representative Carson, Senator Townsend, and Senator Pettyjohn.

“The fire services and emergency services in Delaware are in tr ansition,” said Rep. Short, a past chief of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department. Local fire companies are facing new and difficult c hallenges. More companies and departments are having an increasing ly difficult time finding volunteers and are becoming more reliant on paid staff to meet demand. The price of fire equipment is escal ating, and it can take years between when a new truck is ordered and when it's delivered.

“The General Assembly has always taken an active role in advocating for volunteer firefighters, but it’s clear that we need to take that collaboration to the next level,” he said.

“That’s what we believe the Delaware Fire Caucus will do. “We are hopeful that this Caucus will be among the largest and stro ngest caucuses in the State of Delaware. We believe the General Assem bly recognizes and supporting our state’s first responders. This Caucus will provide a platform to raise the level of awareness in the state about the critical mission our first responders do to fulfill to protect local communities during these difficult times. We plan to educ ate and provide discussion on a broad range of issues, the Caucus helps members understand how legislation can advance the readiness an d response capabilities of our first responders,” said Jones.

As of this writing there’s 40 current members to the Delaware Fire Caucus out of 62 Legislators and we plan on have additional members of the General Assembly join the Caucus.

- Submitted by Norman Jay Jones

National VolunteerFire Council Update

Membership of the NVFC in late December has reached 34,000 members toward their five-year plan of having a membership of 50,000 members. Delaware Directors Jay Jones and Bill Betts would lik e to encourage our Delaware delegation to join this Association as t he more members that they have, the more voice they have in the federal legislature in requesting funding for our departments and FEMAgrant funding for AFG and SAFER. Dues are $21.00 per year, and it includes a $10,000 AD &D policy from Provident. In addition, there are many free training webinars from Recruitment & Retention, PTSD, Cancer Presumption, to Lithium-Ion Batteries and Hazardous Materials. The NVFC also provides its membership with a lot of giveaways such as canned water, drip-drop hydration powder, Fire House Coffee, Gear Giveaways, and many other items.

The NVFC is having its annual summit in Buffalo, NYon June 21st and 22nd and is offering training stipends to members who qualify. The focus of the Summit is Recruitment & Retention and Firefighter Safety.

Important Action Items:

The NVFC is heavily involved with a Congressional Campaign to maintain the AFG and SAFER funding for the Fire Service. With the lame duck Congress this fall, and the lack of cooperation on both sides of the aisle, this funding is at a critical point of maintainin g our funding for these popular grants.

The NVFC is also heavily involved with webinars and accepting comments on the newly proposed OSHA1910.156 standard which would put volunteer fire departments under the standard that was originally developed for industrial fire brigades. They have incorporated a load of NFPAstandards into this regulation which would make them law if this is passed. Please contact your national congressional delegation to oppose this regulation. It is another financial and time-consuming factor that will adversely affect the volunteer fire servic e.

Contact me at 302-535-7080 or Jay Jones at 302-381-9780 if we can be of any assistance.

- Submitted by Bill Betts

Delaware City Fire Company Raffle

Photo left to right: Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Associatio n Executive Manager Norman “Jay” Jones and State Rep. Danny Short at the first organizational meeting of the Delaware Fire Service Caucus held at Legislative Hall on March 12.

Odessa Fire Company Cadet Program Thrives

The Odessa Fire Company Cadet Program is developed to provide an opportunity foryoung people within the community to actively participate and become familiarwith careeropportunities available in the Fire & Emergency Services. This is a vital part of ourorganization. The program is made up of young adults from the age group of 14 to 17, who live in, orattend school in the Odessa Fire Company, or lives within a neighboring fire district that does not have a similar cadet program. Training is conducted through lectures, hands-on experiences, and through field trips twice a month to familiarize cadets with the basics of fire company organization, fire/rescue, and EMS basics. The Odessa Fire Company has 13 young adults in the Cadet Program lead by Cadet Advisors Keith Cavanaugh (Chairman), Mark Bendler, Past Chief Brent Billings, Deputy Bri an Pyle, Lieutenant Brian Smith, and Sarah Getchell.

- Submitted by Jennifer Wilson

Cadets: Zach Bailey, Kylie Bendler, Arjun Bharath, Kaidance Brickley, Lillian Dunkelberger, Camiryn Fagley, Logan Fagley, Damien Frezza, Noah Hoff, AmberLaird, Rohan Sreeram, Samwell Stevenson, Aubrey Unruh.

Free Smoke Detectors forResidents of Delaware

January 14, 2024: In 2023 there were 14 fire deaths in Delaware. 80% of those deaths did not have working smoke detectors in their homes. Because of the fire losses last year, the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association has taken money out of their reserve funds to purchase smoke detectors. Scott McClennen of Lowes at Brandywine Town Center has graciously offered a reduced price for these much needed life saving devices. The 3,330 smoke detectors were received on January 12th and the were loaded pickup trucks from the Little Creek, Indian River and Brandywine Hundred Fire Companies for distribution to all the volunteer fire companies and the City of

Wilmington Fire Department, for the citizens of Delaware.

Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association President, Ron O’Neal, at the press conference for the detectors said; “Home fires are the leading cause for fire deaths in the United States. The DVFAtook the initiative to create the awareness of this problem. We are hoping this initiative will reduce the amount of home fire deaths in Delaware. The smoke detectors should be delivered the fire companies this week. Please stop by any fire station to receive your free smoke detector. If you are unable to come to the fire house or need help installing them please call your local fire com-

pany.” Also, he said, “If there are corporate sponsors who would like the help defray the cost for next year and beyond please contact the DVFAoffice.”

AETNAAccepting Applications forNext Live-In Cohort

Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Company is accepting applications for the next cohort of Live-In Program participants. The fire company offers twelve positions with free housing in exchange for staffing fire apparatus for 120 hours per month. The housing is located on Academy Street across from Fire Station No. 9, and includes private rooms, a full bathroom, laundry room, kitchen and dining room.

The entry level requirements for program participation are being 18 years of age or older, a full-time student, full-time employee or combination of part-time student and employee, and completion of a NFPA Firefighter I course or equivalent. Live-In participants assisted Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Company response to 81 working fires, over 20 motor vehicle collisions with entrapment and 3,700 fire responses during calendar year 2023.

Individuals interested in the Live-In Program may contact livein@aetnahhl.org for further information, or submit a Live-In Interest Form electronically at https://www.aetnahhl.org/livein/about-live-in.

Photo caption: Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Company LiveIn Program participants undergo initial training and orientation at the West Chester (PA) Fire Department Training Center. The Live-In cohort is oriented to Aetna firefighting operations while honing their fireground skills. The Live-In Program provides housing in return for staffing fire apparatus.

- Submitted by Lawrence Tan

Battalion Chief Retires with 45 Years of Service

January 13, 2024, Battalion Chief Dennis Kirlin retired from the Wilmington Fire Department after45 years of service to the city of Wilmington. Battalion Chief Kirlin is the last memberof the Kirlin family to have served in the Wilmington Fire Department. At least one memberof the Kirlin family had served in the department since its founding as a careerdepartment in 1921. Battalion Chief Kirlin began his careerin 1978 and served in nearly every company division during his career. As a result of Battalion Chief Kirlin’s retire-

ment, several members of the Wilmington Fire Department were promoted: Captain Eric Haley has been promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief. Battalion Chief Haley is a 21-yearveteran of the department. Lieutenant Laurence Hinds has been promoted to rank of Captain. Captain Hinds is a 12-yearveteran of the department. FirefighterPeterVincent has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Vincent is a 9-yearveteran of the department.

- Submitted by Robert Pryor

Deputy Fire Chief Thomas Krass Wins

- Submitted by Howard Smith

- Submitted by Howard Smith

Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamberof Commerce Fire and Ice Festival

On Friday, January 26, 2024, members of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company, in support of the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce Fire and Ice Festival, attended an opening night event at the Millville Boardwalk. Members were on hand to provide site

safety, hand out fire prevention materials, and sell S’mores to benefit ourCommunity Hero’s Capital Campaign. We would like to thank the MVFC Auxiliary fortheirassistance during this event.

- Photos by Dennis Ayres; Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Donation to the Millville Volunteer Fire Co. Ambulance Service

Thursday, January 11, 2024, the Millville VolunteerFire Company Ambulance Service received a generous donation forthe Women’s Civic Club of Bethany Beach in the amount of $1,000.00 dollars. The ceremony was held at the Cripple Creek Golf and Country Club. The WCCBB has always supported the Millville VFC Ambulance Service and forthat we are extremely grateful. Seen in the photo below is Vice President Helen Pastis presenting EMS Chief Jack Wilson with the donation check.

- Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Donation from Scottish Rite to MVFC

On Friday February 16, 2024, Mr. Pat Sheardon with the assistance of Mr. Eric Evans, members of the Scottish Rite, delivered Wawa gift cards to EMS Chief Jackie Wilson forourFirefighter/EMTs to have a meal on busy days. The MVFC would like to thank the Scottish Rite fortheirgenerous donation and continued support.

- Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Donation from First Shore Federal Bank

February 13, 2024, Vice President and Sussex County OfficerDiane Koch from First Shore Federal Bank in Millville presented Millville VolunteerFi re Company President Greg Hockerwith a check for$500.00 to go toward ourCommunity Hero’s Capital Campaign. Ms. Koch stated “First Shore Federal Bank is very appreciative of our efforts to protect ourcommunity and are happy to support ourcapital campaign”. The MVFC would like to thank First Shore Federal Bank fortheircontinued and generous support of the Millville VFC.

- Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

71st Annual Ladies Night Banquet

On Saturday evening January 13, 2024, the Millville VolunteerFire Company held its 71st Annual “Ladies Night” Banquet. The banquet was held at the Roxana VolunteerFire Company. Adelicious

three course meal was prepared by the members of the Roxana VFC Auxiliary and we cannot thank them enough fortheir hospitality!

- Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Millville Fire Co. New Tanker

The Millville VolunteerFire Company will be placing in service a 2023 Peterbilt - 4 Guys Tanker, the unit will be known as Tanker84. It is built on a 2023 Peterbilt 367 cab and chassis. The tankercarries 4000 gallons of waterand is equipped with two side and one rearquick dump. In addition, the MVFC opted to carry a 3000-gallon rectangularportable watertank to aid with watershuttle operations. The new tankerwill operate out of Fire Station #2 on OmarRoad which services a mostly non-hydrant area and is the closest station to most of ourrural mutual aid response areas. Chief WalterJohnson stated, “Thank you to all the committee members who have worked on this project and have sacrificed long hours to get this exceptional piece of apparatus in service, we appreciate all yourhard work getting this done”. - Photos by the MVFC and Tony Petralia Jr.;Submitted by Doug Scott, Past Chief

Plaque Dedication to Past President Emeritus Mildred “Mil” Garcia

The Holloway Terrace Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary dedicated a plaque to the memory of late President Emeritus Mildred “Mil” Garcia, who led the auxiliary for20 years. The plaque will be hung in the John V. Ryan Memorial Hall, where it will remain in memory of this special lady. Accepting the plaque are left to right: Mil’s granddaughterPage Romano, daughterNicole Cathcart-Romano and sister, Barbara Rossiter.

- Submitted by Randy Roberts

Clayton Town Council Recognizes Fire Company 2023 Award Winners

During the January Company meeting of the Clayton Fire Company the Mayorof the Town of Clayton, a fire company member, and Vice MayorRyal Pasley presented resolutions to the members who were awarded at the 2023 Fire Company Banquet held on December16, 2023. Resolutions were pre-

sented to new life members Kenny Rife and Jonothan “JJ” Burnett, The Robert Berghorn Firefighterof the YearCrew LeaderMike Wynne, The William R. “Ace” Fireman of the Yearand the TurnerHurlock Training Award Alison Pedigo, The President’s Award Associate Memberof the

Clayton Memberof the Month in December- Denys Demczak

YearReagan

stated, “It is important to recognize these members fortheirdedication and how much the town appreciates theirhard work and dedication.”

- Submitted by Kevin Wilson, PIO

February Memberof the Month - Jim Masten

In the month of January, the company honored associate member, DirectorDenys Demczak as the December Memberof the Month. Director Demczak attended 12 fund raising activities, one company meeting, and had 25 miscellaneous points (calendarbegan November1, 2023). The members of the Clayton Fire Company would like to thank Denys forherhard work and dedication. Left to

- Submitted by Kevin Wilson

During each fire company meeting the Clayton Fire Company takes the time to honora memberfrom the previous month that went just a above and beyond. During the February company meeting the company honored associate member Jim Masten forhis service. Jim serves as an association memberof the Clayton Fire Company and an active fire police office forCitizens Hose of Smyrna and assists Clayton Fire with fire police duties. During January 2024 Jimmy attended 14 alarms, 4 fund raising events, 1 uniformed function, the January company meeting, and 4 miscellaneous functions fora total of 29 points for the month and 55 points forthe year. The members and officers of the Clayton Fire Company thank Jim Masten forhis service.

Pictured Left to Right: Lto R Fire Chief Ausstin Moorhead, MOM Jim Masten, and Clayton President Rodney W. Whalen

- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO, Clayton Fire Company

Thompson, and the Stephen TurnerAward forJuniorMemberof the Year Nathan Renyolds. MayorNick Smith

JuniorMemberNathan Reynolds, Vice MayorPasley, Nathan Reynolds, MayorSmith

Firefighterof the YearMike Wynne, Vice MayorPasley, Mike Wynne, MayorSmith

Turner- Hurlock Training Award Pedigo, Vice MayorPasley, Alison Pedigo, MayorSmith

Life MemberJonathan JJ Burnett, Vice MayorPasley, Jonathan JJ Burnett, MayorSmith

Life MemberKenny Rife, Vice MayorPasley, Kenny Rife, MayorSmith

Associate Memberof the YearThompson, Vice MayorPasley, Reagan Thompson, and MayorSmith

right: Vice President Rodney W. Whalen, Denys Demczak, and Fire Chief Austin Moorhead.

Comm. Joanne Masten Presents Resolutions to Members

February 13, 2024, Clayton, DE - During the February 2024 company meeting Levey Court CommissionerJoanne Masten presented resolutions to the Clayton Fire Company 2023 award winners. Those members receiving resolutions were; Associate Memberof the Year, The President’s Award Reaghan Thompson, Robert Berghorn Firefighterof the YearAward Michael Wynne, William R. “Ace” Carrow Fireman of the Yearand the Turner-Hurlock

Clayton MemberReaghan King Accepted to U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Clayton Fire Company memberReaghan King has accepted a Presidential appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Reaghan is a 2-yearmemberof the company and will play rugby forWest Point. President Rodney Whalen stated; “Reaghan is an exceptional young lady and herleaving ourcompany will be a big loss forClayton Fire, but a huge gain forWest Point”. Reaghan’s initial announcement was made during the Smyrna Fire Company 911 ceremonies, by past Clayton Chief/President Kevin Wilson the key note speaker. The formal signing of hercommitment was made December20th at the Smyrna High School surrounded by herfamily and herfire company family. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson, PIO

Stephen

Nathan

and two life memberawards to JJ Burnett and Kenny Rife. Congrats to all the award winners foroutstanding service to the Clayton Fire Company. Pictured Left to Right: Alison Pedigo, JJ Burnett, Kenny Rife, Michael Wynne, Nathan Reynolds, and Reaghan Thompson.

- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO

Firefighterand Crew Leader Mike Wynne Honored

During the March 12, 2024, fire company meeting, President Rodney W. Whalen and Fire Chief Austin Moorhead honored firefighterand crew leaderMike Wynne with a certificate forbeing th e top points memberfor2023. FirefighterWynne accumulated 512 points in 2023 by attending fire alarms, meetings, fund raising events at the station, trainings, and othermiscellaneous activities at the station. To say that Mike is an active memberis an understatement stated Chief Austin. He is always around and willing to help with any activity that is needed. Left to Right Photo: President, Fire Chief Austin Moorhead, and Mike Wynee

- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson, PIO

Training Award

Alison Pedigo, JuniorMemberof the Yearthe

TurnerMemorial Award

Reynolds,

Firefighter Pat Langshaw Promoted

Sam Topper Leading Fire 2024 Fire Camp

- Submitted by Sophia Curran

The Hockessin Fire Company would like to congratulate firefighter1st Class Pat Langshaw assigned to B Platoon on a recent rank increase to seniorfirefighter.

- Submitted by Patrick Langshaw

10

Years of Service

MasterFirefighter Matt Burge

The Hockessin Fire Company would like to congratulate MasterFirefighterMatt Burge with ten years of employment forthe company. Matt is currently assigned to APlatoon.

- Submitted by Patrick Langshaw

Farmington Award

Members with Hurst Green Cross Award

At Farmington Fire Companies January meeting Chief Tom Williams presented members Richie Smith, John Bushey, and Michael Petusky with the Hurst Green Cross Award fortheir actions on an MVC with Entrapment on June 1, 2023.

- Submitted by Tom Williams

New FirstNet Site in Cape Henlopen Park Gives Public Safety Connectivity Boost

First responders in Delaware are getting a major boost in their wireless communications thanks to a new FirstNet®, Built with AT&Tpurpose-built cell site located in Cape Henlopen State Park in Sus sex County. This new site provides first responders on FirstNet - America’s public safety network - access to always-on, 24-hours-a-day priority and preemption across voice and data.

With access to Delaware Bay, hiking trails, camping facilities, historic World War II towers and more, Cape Henlopen State Park hosts a high quantity and variety of visitors each year, from surfers, fishermen and campers to bikers, recreational sports teams, and many others. Various challenges can pose connectivity difficulties in the pa rk, which can impact emergency response communications.

But with the launch of this new site, FirstNet is delivering en hanced coverage and capacity for Delaware first responders in the area , as well as commercial customers visiting the park. To facilitate better connections in times of need, FirstNet worked closely with several state agencies to implement the site in Cape Henlopen State Park.

“Due to the number of incidents in that area, particularly duri ng the summer months, I am pleased to see that the State of Delaware a nd AT&T/FirstNet collaborated to enhance the cellular network at C ape Henlopen State Park,” said Joseph L. Thomas, Director, Sussex County Emergency Operations. “This is a win for public safety communications in Sussex County.”

Building upon AT&T’s current and planned investments in Delaware, we’re actively extending the reach of the FirstNet ne twork to give small and large agencies alike the reliable, unthrottled c onnectivity and modern communications tools they need. The site in Cape Henlopen State Park was constructed using Band 14 spectrum, as well as AT&Tcommercial spectrum. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet, or what

we consider public safety’s VIPlane. In an emergency, this band - or lane - can be cleared and restricted solely for FirstNet subscr ibers. That means only those on the FirstNet network will be able to access Band 14 spectrum, further elevating their connected experience and e mergency response capabilities.

We’ve rolled out Band 14 on more than 80 sites across Delaware to provide public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacit y when they need it most. In Delaware, AT&Tinvested more than $60 mill ion in our network infrastructure from 2020-2022 to connect more people to greater possibility. These investments boost reliability, cover age, speed and overall performance for residents, businesses and first responders.

“Delaware’s first responders deserve reliable coverage across t he state to help them effectively and efficiently address incident s. And with FirstNet, that’s exactly what they’re getting,” said Vince Apruzzese, President, AT&TDelaware. “We have a responsibility unlike any other network provider and couldn’t be more pleased to support the public safety mission by bringing Delaware first responders - and residents - greater access to the connectivity they need.”

FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks and service marks of the First Responder Network Authority. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

Key Insights

• First responders in Delaware are getting a major boost in their wireless communications thanks to a new FirstNet® purpose-built cell site located in Cape Henlopen State Park in Sussex County.

• The site in Cape Henlopen State Park was constructed using Ba nd 14 spectrum, as well as AT&Tcommercial spectrum.

• We’ve rolled out Band 14 on more than 80 sites across Delaware to provide public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacit y when they need it.

-

by Robert

- Submitted by Brooks Keen

Gary Flood Honored as a 50 YearMemberof Laurel Fire Dept.

At Laurel Fire Departments Annual Banquet, held of February 10, 2024, Gary Flood was recognized for50 years of service to the organization. Mr. Flood joined the Laurel Fire Dept. on May 7, 1973. Gary was immediately active as a Fire and Rescue Responderand provided forthe ambulance squad. Gary was always very content to work in the background and neversought the limelight. He worked with the department Rescue Squad and became a diver, which he did formany years. Gary served as Rescue Captain in 1975. Gary is best known forhis long careerin law enforcement eventually becoming Chief of Police forthe City of Seaford.

Jeff Hill Recognized for His Lifetime Achievements with the Laurel Fire Dept.

The Laurel Fire Departments Annual Awards was held on February 10, 2024. Jeff Hill was honored with the department Lifetime Achievement Awards. Hill joined the Laurel Fire Department on July 13, 1981, and was immediately active in all facets of the department. He has served as Ambulance Captain, Assistant Fire Chief and has served 27 years as fire chief. He is a past President of the County Fire Chiefs Association and longtime member of the Laurel Town Council.

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

D.V.F.A. holds Fire Prevention Poster and Essay Awards Program

On January 7, 2024, the Cheswold Fire Co., hosted the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Associations Poster and Essay Awards Program. Children in Kindergarten through 3rd Grade prepared a Poster on their assigned topics and Children 4th Grade through 8th completed essays.

1st row left to right: Joy Jones, Jade Sandoval-Hernandez, Dylan Abbott, Bridget Hughes, Julianna Sparklin, Addyson Mackert, Elise Burns, Coelyn Lenhardt, Makayla Proudfoot, Annie Warfel

2nd row left to right Maximus Patrick, Kobe Bell, Levi Corbett, Aadvik Khandelwal, Rylee Price, Ava Wink, Olivia Stewart, Annabelle Do neker, Chase Kinsell

3rd row left to right: Kourtney Coblentz, Cameron Wynn, Drake Taylor

- Submitted by Michael Lowe

Congratulations Gerald Webb Jr. for39 Years of Service

The Ellendale Vol. Fire Co. would like to recognize Gerald Webb Jr. forhis exemplary services provided to the fire department of the State of Delaware formore than 39 years of dedicated service with the Delaware State Forest Service. Gerald Webb Jr. has retired to the Ellendale Vol. Fire Co. and is currently the Fire Police Captain and Life Member. We appreciate his service!

- Submitted by Kyle Perry

Pictured Left to right: Chief Jeff Hill with President John Bowden.

Citizens Hose Co. Honor50 Year MemberAwards

Citizens Hose Company Past President Brooks Keen and President Grant Nash presenting 50-yearMemberAwards to Greg Parsell, Keith Pars ell and Lloyd Massey at awards banquet January 10, 2024.

- Submitted by Brooks Keen

2024

Citizens Hose Company Chief Emeritus Awards Presented at Annual Banquet

On January 10, 2024, Citizens Hose Co. President Grant Nash, Chief Emeritus Bill Carson, Chief Emeritus Robert Newnam, Chief Emeritus Alan Robinson and Fire Chief Chip Thompson received Emeritus Awards.

- Submitted by Brooks Keen

- Submitted by Brooks Keen

Sitting Left to Right: 2nd Asst. Chief Dwayne Newnam, Fire Chief Chip Thompson and 2nd Asst. Chief Mike O’Neill

Standing Left to Right: Capt. Brian Ferguson, Lt. JC Caldwell, Capt. Brooks Keen, Lt. Brien Street and Capt. Isaac Hankins

Milton St. Patrick’s Parade

New Officers Installed at Farmington Fire Dept.

At Farmington Fire Companies at the January meeting the Officers for2024 were installed. Secretary Adam Warner, Directors Michael Petusky, and Jimmy Anthony, Chief EngineerJeff McCombs, TreasurerJohn Bushey, Vice President Richie Smith, President Jo e Zeroles, and Chief Tom Williams. - Submitted by Tom Williams

On March 10, 2024, South Bowers VolunteerFire Company and Kennett VolunteerFire Company stood by Station 85 forthe Milton St. Patrick’s Parade.

- Photo credit to Skylar Webb; Submitted by Amanda Ziegler