Serving DELAWARE Serving Fire, Rescue
VOLUME 22, NO. 3
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973 JUNE 2019
See story on page 45. - Submitted by Tom Williams
EF-2 Tornado Causes Heavy Damage in Sussex County See page 18.
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 3
In this issue... 2 Injured at Elmhurst Blaze Five Points and area companies were alerted for a residential structure fire directly behind the fire station. See story on page 7
Residential Fire... and Then Some Clayton was dispatched for a residential fire in the 300 Block of Oak Hill School Road. See story on page 11
That Wasn’t Any Car Fire! Wilmington firefighters were alerted for a vehicle fire in the 200 block of North Market Street. See story on page 13
Quick Extrication Clayton, along with Ambulance 64, KM6, KM5 and Trooper 4 were dispatched for an MVC with entrapment. See story on page 15
Wilmington Worker Rescued From Ship Wilmington firefighters responded for an injured worker on vessel at the Port of Wilmington. See story on page 19
Obituaries Elsmere’s William Walton, Sr. Clayton’s Nancy L. Scottom See story on page 41
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 22 & 24 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 22 Delaware Pioneers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 39 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 49 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 50
An independently owned news and information resource for the dedicated firefighters, emergency medical technicians, auxiliary members, and public safety officials in the State of Delaware. Thanks to the support of its advertisers, this newspaper is distributed free of charge to every fire station in the First State. Published bi-monthly by Fire News, Inc., 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. Delaware Fire Service News is a registered trademark and all material contained herein is copyrighted. All rights reserved.
Frank C. Trotta, Publisher Tim Edwards, Executive Editor Dennis Whittam, Editor Gary Joyce, Asst. Editor Marie Trotta, Vice President, Production/Sales Cliff Chiesa, Art Director Barbara Connolly, Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler Graphic Artists Warren F. Jones and Thomas J. Mitten, Publishers Emeritus Sal DeVivo, Founding Publisher Contributors: Mark Anderson, Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Christine Bennett, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Sean Byron, Dave Carpenter, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Michele Ehart, Mary Eisenbrey, Mark Felicetti, Dave Ferguson, Robert Fox, Jon Gallo, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Doug Hudson, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Bill Ireland, Jr., Terry Jester, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Chris Lucas, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joseph Mriss, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Dwayne Pearson, Phil Pennington Sr., Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, John Randolph, James Read, Matthew Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Kevin Sipple, Chuck Snyder, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Jack Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 x111 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-776-0500 x111 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $25.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers AdvantEdge Healthcare ............. 7 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ....................... 5, 21, 26, 27, 35, 51 Breaking News Network ........... 39 DPC ................................. 2, 23, 52 Eastern Surplus ........................ 11 Emergency Responder Reply System ....................................... 31 ESI .............................................. 4 Fire & Rescue Products ........... 17 Fire, Rescue & EMS Today Podcast ..................................... 45 Firehouse Kitchen .................... 50
FRI IChiefs ............................... 45 Provident Agency Inc. .............. 17 Roll N Rack ............................... 19 Rush Uniforms ........................... 4 Spicer Mullikin ......................... 33 Sutphen ....................................... 9 Terry Farrell ........................... Firefighters Fund .................... 38 The Fire Store .......................... 15 VCI ............................................ 13 Veterans Manufacturing .......... 11
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
The Perfect Time to Hone Skills I would like to take a moment to thank all of our responders who have been honored for performing above and beyond the call of duty. Fire News was proud to have attended many department installation and award dinners that honored responders for high points, training awards, CPR saves, rescues and years of service. As I write my editorial, the Fire Department of the City of New York is preparing to honor their members who have performed above and beyond the call of duty by saving lives. We will talk more about that in our next edition. Are you one of your department’s newer members? Have you given thought to your dedication to your Oath of Service? Would you be able to put your life on the line to protect the lives of others? In your mind you are probably saying “Yes!” But what can you do to make sure you are ready to perform flawlessly at your next serious call? If you are given a rope and asked to tie it off, could you do it without hesitation? Or would you stare at the rope and guess at what to do? Officers set up great company drills throughout the year. Once a month, an evolu-
tion and skills are reviewed. Can you really learn a skill by doing it once a month? I say, No! Watch your next yearly bailout recertification drill. Are your members able to tie off, make it to the window, and then bailout without thought? When a room is ready to flash, you have seconds to perform a maneuver flawlessly. When you are searching a smokefilled room without a search rope and your vibra alert goes off do you know what to do? What happens if you are searching a room that you closed the door on and cannot find the door to leave the room? Maybe inside the room the door was totally smooth and blended into the wall. Do you have to give a Mayday signal, or could you calmly radio to someone out in the hall and ask them to open the door on the first room to the right of the staircase? Every situation requires thought about emergency procedures. Your thought process is developed by constantly drilling and talking with members to gain ideas on what to do. Critiquing after every call is a must! Constant practice is necessary to gain experience on skills that keep you safe. It is the responder’s obligation to familiar-
ize themselves with the skills taught to them. The next time you walk into the firehouse to kill time, eat your lunch or check the bulletin board, practice or do one thing that could save your life. Try this. Keep a six-foot rope in your living room. When a commercial comes on, nonchalantly pick up the rope and make as many knots as you can until your show resumes. If you do this with dedication, your knot skills will improve. Oh, one more thing, know what the knot is used for and where you will use that knot. Enjoy summer honing your skills as a first responder. - Dennis
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Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office Firefighter Presumption Legislation: The DVFA has introduced Firefighter Presumption Legislation for cancer, PTSD, and heart conditions. Please contact your legislator and ask them to support this legislation. Conference 2019: Conference 2019 is only four months away. The dates are September 11 to 13, 2019. Most of the forms are on the DVFA Website. Please fill them out and return them by August 8, 2019. Also, there will be a number of new and informative seminars under
a new format. We will also have some national speakers in the seminar presentations, as well. Please check the website for information as it become available. Apparatus and Equipment Inventory: An inventory of all apparatus is supposed to go to the insurance commissioner’s office each year. Please go to the DVFA website, download your form, fill it out and send it in. Communications: Communications is extremely important. It is important that we have
your email address so we may keep you updated on fire service issues. It is also a two-way street; if you need information from the DVFA Office please do not hesitate to contact us. The DVFA office is available to help with any of your needs. Let us know how we can help! Warren Jones, Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566 (cell) 302-734-9404 (fax)
DVFA President by Bill Betts, President, DVFA It seems like time has gone into warp speed this year as we are entering the summer season and a lot of the fire service family are busy getting ready for graduations, weddings and vacations. Although it has been a little hectic at times, I am enjoying my time as President. The DVFA officers have been very busy in the current legislative session, working with the new and old legislators on bills that will benefit the fire service and membership. Recently, the State DEFAC Committee found
some surplus money and we are working on different angles to get some of the money for the Revolving Loan Fund, matching Fire Prevention funds, smoke detectors, and getting started on funding for our new radio upgrades coming up in 2024. Warren has also got the Cancer Presumption legislation ready to be brought before the Senate for a vote, and it will also include heart problems and PTSD. Finally, on the legislative front, there is a joint resolution for a committee to be formed to assist us in our recruitment and retention efforts, as membership continues to spiral downward. The officers attended FDIC in early April and went to two functions with Provident Insurance. I also had the privilege of sitting at the head
table at the CFSI dinner representing the DVFA, and I presented the Delaware check for $49,800 for the 166 members that attended the dinner from Delaware. At the reception before the dinner, I accepted a check of $6,000 from Provident for our partners in progress program, and a check from Provident to the DVFA Foundation for $1,000 for scholarships. I look forward to seeing everyone at the June 9, 2019, Executive Meeting where we will be voting on the 2020 budget which was developed by the Finance Committee and approved by the Executive Committee. There is some new information on a possible change to the funding of our Pension. Take care and have a safe summer season.
LADVFA Corner by Penny Gentry, President LADVFA Can you believe that summer is almost upon us! Time sure does fly! I would like to thank Bill Preston for coming to the LADVFA Executive Meeting on May 6 and giving an explanation about the IRS issues facing everyone. He gave an informative presentation and answered numerous questions regarding this issue. There were still a few lingering questions, but most were answered to everyone’s satisfaction. A summary of the issues is forth-
coming to help guide everyone through the process. The process can be done with a minimal amount of disruption, depending on each company’s take on the issue. Plans are underway for this year’s conference. Packages were given out at the Executive Meeting along with all the necessary forms. Please remember to submit your forms by July 15, 2019. The souvenirs are in and are available for purchase at the County Meeting, both men’s and ladies meetings. With summer weather almost here, remember a few precautions when working or doing
anything outdoors. Keep hydrated, use lots of sunscreen, wear a wide brimmed hat, and take frequent breaks if the weather gets too hot. Check on your neighbors if they are elderly, and make sure they are okay and either have air conditioning or fans to help keep them cool. Kudos to Leipsic Fire Company for helping out an elderly couple who had issues during a recent heat spell. They went and purchased a window air conditioner for them and helped avert what could have been a tragic situation. To all of you: stay safe, and thank you for all you do.
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 7
2 Injured at Elmhurst Blaze
On April 25, 2019, around 0140, Five Points and area companies were alerted for a residential structure fire in the unit block of West Summit Avenue in the Elmhurst section of the district, directly behind the fire station. Crews arrived and found a single-story residence heavily involved with an injured person lying on a neighbor’s lawn. E-17 requested a second alarm on arrival due to the proximity of exposures and the amount of fire. Multiple handlines were placed in service. Paramedics treated two injured and transported them to the area trauma center. Crews remained on the scene for about three hours before clearing. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes, photos by Nozzle Nut Photography
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Fire at Farmington Transfer Station
Station 47, Ladder Company 78, Tanker Company 50 and KM8 responded to a building fire at the Farmington Transfer Station. - Submitted by Tom Williams; photo courtesy of Mark Anderson; Station 78
Quick Wrap in Millsboro
Evac Ordered at House Fire
On March 26, 2019, Millsboro Fire responded to a water flow alarm to find a working kitchen fire at a townhouse. Crews contained the fire to the area without further incident. - Submitted by Larry Gum
On April 10, 2019, Station 16 was dispatched for a ladder to assist Station 19 (Hockessin) on a residential fire. Ladder 16 arrived to a two-story, single-family dwelling with fire showing from an attached garage. L16 Captain Games and Firefighter Jones searched the first and second floors along with the basement and secured the utilities. After completing searches, the crew performed fire suppression and opened up on the second floor before an emergency evacuation was ordered by the incident commander. Units operated for almost three hours. - Submitted by Frank Maule; photo by Nozzle Nut Photography; story by Captain Vince Games
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Brandywine Handles Structure Fire
Firefighters from the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company Station 11 responded to a working structure fire at Colony North on May 19, 2019. Crews made quick work of the fire without incident. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Laurel Brush Fire On March 16, 2019, the Laurel Fire Department responded to Fire Tower Road for a brush fire that was reported by DNREC. Brush 81-1 responded with Chief Jeff Hill as Officer/Incident Command. While en route Hill requested Blades be alerted for a tanker and additional brush truck. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Rescue at Townhouse Fire On November 12, 2018, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder, along with mutual aid from Christiana, Mill Creek, Minquas, Hockessin and New Castle County Paramedics, were dispatched to Waltham Street in the Kimberton Townhouses for a residential fire with entrapment. Crews arrived to find fire showing from a two-story townhouse and a trapped occupant hanging out of a second-floor-rear window. The occupant was rescued by ground ladder and was transported to Christiana Hospital by Aetna ambulance and NCCEMS in critical condition. Simultaneously, crews worked to extinguish the fire and search for any additional victims. One Aetna firefighter was transported to Christiana Hospital for minor burns. One cat was also rescued and was transported to a local veterinary
hospital. Assistant Chief Fleming had Newark Command. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office handled the investigation and determined the cause to be the failure of a power cord to a portable space heater. The occupant has since made a full recovery. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 11
Residential Fire‌ and Then Some
On February 2, 2019, Clayton, along with Tanker, Engine, Rescue Station 44 and Engine Company Station 26, were dispatched for a residential structure fire in the 300 Block of Oak Hill School Road. Engines 45-2 and 45-3 arrived to find a travel trailer that had been converted to a residence involved, along with several other outbuildings. Crews established a water supply and stretched two handlines. Additional crews from Rescue 45, Engine 26, Squad 26, Engine 44-3 and Rescue 44 assisted with overhaul. Tanker 44 handled the water supply. The fire was being investigated by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office. - Submitted by Mike Carroll and Joe Jones
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Bebe Road Woodland Fire Engine 47-5 operating at a woods fire on Beebe Road. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Caravel Farms House Fire On May 6, 2019, at 0107, Christiana Fire and mutual aid companies were dispatched to a residential structure fire on Chesapeake Drive in the community of Caravel Farms. At the time, E12, Tower 12, and RE12 were en route to an MVC with entrapment. E12 diverted, arrived and reported a two-story single-family dwelling with fire showing from the attached garage and the first and second floors, as well as a vehicle fully involved. E12’s arrival was quickly followed by SQ10 and L9 (Aetna). Automatic aid from Delaware City, Port Penn, Middletown, Minquas, and Cranston Heights also responded. Tower 12 and RE12 responded after completing extrication at the MVC. Four handlines were deployed. Searches were negative. Companies performed extensive overhaul. Chief Cowperthwait had Command. - Submitted by Dennis E. Godek
Christiana Assists Volunteer Hose On January 26, 2019, at 1753, while Christiana units were committed to a working alarm in the Aetna Hose locale, Christiana Fire was dispatched for an engine assist for a non-dwelling structure fire in the district of the Volunteer Hose Company on Choptank Road in Middletown. Units arrived to a commercialsized garage heavily involved, with exposure to a large singlefamily dwelling and another garage. RE12 stretched 1100 feet of supply line and supplied Ladder 18 for an aerial master stream operation, while E6 pumped RE12’s supply line. Battalion 6 (Netsch) and Battalion 12 (Godek) also responded. - Submitted by Dennis Godek
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That Wasn’t Any Car Fire! Recently, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were alerted for a vehicle fire in the 200 block of North Market Street. Engine 1, under the command of Lieutenant Jacob Morente, found heavy smoke showing from a three-story building in the middle of the block. The first floor was occupied by a restaurant. Lieutenant Morente quickly upgraded the call. Deputy Chief Jerome McCaffery arrived and immediately requested additional resources. Crews stretched lines and began an aggressive interior attack on fire in the rear of the restaurant with minor extension to the second floor. Additional crews searched all levels of the building. The fire was investigated by the Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office. The following units responded: Engine 1, Skyboom 2, Engine 5, Engine 6, Squad 4, Ladder 2, Ladder 1, Deputy-2, Battalion-1, Battalion-2, Battalion-12, F-9, FM-12, FM-22, New Castle County Mutual Aid Companies, St. Francis EMS, New Castle County Medics, Wilmington Licenses and Inspections, and Delmarva Power and Light. - Submitted by John Looney
Mulch Fire Extends to House
On May 2, 2019, Christiana Fire and mutual aid companies were dispatched to a residential structure fire on Pheasant Circle in the Fox Run community. E12, Tower 12, and Battalion 12 arrived to a two-story single-family dwelling with an attached three-car garage with fire showing from the garage. L9 and SQ15 arrived next. Two handlines were deployed from E12. Crews found fire in the garage and the attic area above the garage advancing toward the main house. Units 29-6, SQ14 and SQ23 arrived. Unit 29-6 checked the main house for extension, as Tower 12 and L9 crews performed searches, then opened the ceiling in the garage. The FMO determined that the fire started outside on the A/D corner of the garage in a pile of mulch and then extended into the structure. - Submitted by Dennis E. Godek
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Quick Knockdown in Rehoboth Beach On March 29, 2019, at 2142, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a house fire on West Side Drive in the Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club. Units arrived to fire showing from the front of the house. The fire was quickly knocked down. Units remained on the scene for an hour and a half doing overhaul and checking for extension. Assisting were Lewes, Indian River and Sussex County EMS. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Aetna Assists Singerly On March 10, 2019, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder of Newark was sent to assist Singerly Fire of Elkton at a residential structure fire, located in the 1700 block of Appleton Road, north of Elkton, near the MD/DE state line. Singerly and Aetna fire units arrived to find heavy smoke and fire coming from a single-story, single family dwelling that had been divided into apartments. Firefighters advanced hose lines into the structure and were met with intense heat as they entered. Three firefighters sustained injuries. Two were transported to the Christiana Hospital by Singerly Fire Company ambulances. They were treated for their injuries and have since been released. One firefighter was treated at the scene for burns, but did not require transport. The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal along with the federal BATFE were investigating. - Photo courtesy of Singerly FC; submitted by John H. Farrell
Motel Fire on East Main Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company, along with mutual aid from Christiana, Mill Creek, Cranston Heights, University of Delaware Emergency Care Unit, and New Castle County Paramedics were dispatched to the Super 8 Motel in the 200 block of East Main Street for a multi-residential structure fire with entrapment. Newark Police were able to rescue the trapped occupant prior to fire department arrival. Deputy Chief Schall struck a second alarm bringing Five Points, Minquas, and Belvedere to the scene as well as FIELDCOM NCC 911 mobile communications post and the St. Francis Hospital EMS Rehab Unit. One patient was transported to Christiana Hospital in stable condition. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands; photos courtesy of Aetna photographer Dave Wilson
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 15
Quick Extrication On February 6, 2019, at 0619, Clayton, along with Ambulance 64, KM6, KM5 and Trooper 4 were dispatched for the vehicle accident with entrapment in the 1300 Block of Wheatley’s Pond Road. Crews from Rescue 45 and 45-3 stabilized the vehicle and extricated the victim in 15 minutes. The victim was transported to CER by Trooper 4. - Submitted by Joe Jones
Millsboro MVC Recently, Millsboro Fire and EMS units responded to an MVC in the Peninsula Shopping Center to find two vehicles involved, with one overturned. - Submitted by Lary Gum
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1 Transported from MVC On April 1, 2019, Station 16 along with Station 14 (Cranston Heights) were dispatched to an MVC with a person reported unconscious. Units arrived and the patient was quickly loaded into an ambulance and was attended to by the ambulance crew from Elsmere and New Castle County Paramedics. Units from Station 16 and 14 remained on scene to assist with debris clean up and traffic control. The driver was treated on scene for minor injuries. - Submitted by Frank Maule
MVC on Park Brown Rd. On April 28, 2019, the Harrington Fire Company along with Kent County Paramedics were dispatched to report of a vehicle accident on Park Brown Road in the area of Pine Pitch Road. Firefighters found a pickup truck in a ditch and found the operator in the vehicle suffering from minor injuries. Firefighters stabilized the vehicle and, using a ladder, were able to remove the driver who was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Extrication at 2-Car MVC Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company, along with New Castle County Paramedics, were dispatched to the intersection of Christina Parkway and Science Boulevard for an MVC with rollover. Harrington Engine 50-5 was providing a cover-up for Aetna’s company elections and also responded. An off-duty NCC Special Operations member arrived and advised of a two-vehicle MVC with rollover and one trapped. Responders arrived to find one vehicle on its side with the driver pinned in the vehicle. Crews quickly worked to stabilize the vehicle, flap the roof, and then lift it with air bags to free the patient. The occupant was transported by to Christiana Hospital. A second patient was also transported to Christiana Hospital. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands
Harrington Handles 2-Car MVC On April 10, 2019, at 0815, the Harrington Fire Company, along with Ambulances 48 and 52, were alerted for an vehicle accident at the intersection of Whitelysburg and Fox Hunters Roads. Firefighters arrived to find a two-vehicle crash with two subjects investigation. Units on scene: A-48, A-52, Rescue 50, Fire Police, suffering minor injuries. Both were transported to local hospitals. Harrington PD and DSP. OIC was Captain Ralph Tucker. - Submitted by Earl Brode The scene was then turned over to the Delaware State Police for
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 17
Wilmington Treats 2 Shortly after 0700, on March 28, 2019, Wilmington firefighters on the C Platoon were dispatched to Vandever Avenue for two injured City of Wilmington sanitation workers. Squad 4 arrived and assessed both workers. While compressing the trash, a pressurized cylinder exploded. One adult male sustained a critical chest injury and the second male complained of difficulty breathing. Due to the quick actions taken by Squad 4 personnel and first arriving Wilmington Police, the critical patient was stabilized and transported to Christiana Hospital Emergency Room. The second patient was transported to Wilmington Hospital for treatment. - Submitted by John Looney
Laurel MVC On April 20, 2019, the Laurel Fire Department and SCEMS were alerted for a two-vehicle MVC at the intersection of Sharptown and Dickerson Roads, west of Laurel. Deputy Chief Mark Sheridan, responded as Incident Command and arrived to find two vehicles in the intersection with entrapment. Command requested a Rescue and EMS assist from Delmar and an additional EMS unit from Sharptown. Three priority patients were transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Laurel Responds to Confirmed EF-2 Tornado On April 15, 2019, a very strong storm took place over Western Sussex County. At 0343, the Laurel Fire Department was alerted to respond to Seaford Road, for a tree into a house with subjects trapped. Assistant Chief Mike Lowe responded as 81 Command. It was clear that conditions were extreme. EMS A-81 responded. As Lowe approached the scene, he was stopped by Sussex Paramedic Unit 102 and advised they had been in contact with a truck driver, on Sussex Highway, who stated the vehicle in front of him had been raised from the road, spun around and dropped back on the road. A-81 was unable to approach the address of the reported incident as a result of debris in the roadway. Within five minutes LFD was alerted for three additional alarms for wires down or storm damage. Tower 81 responded with Deputy Chief Mark Sheridan. That crew made its way up Seaford Road to the first reported incident hauling tools, saws and first aid supplies. Engine 81-4 responded with Chief Jeff Hill on board. Hill was requested to proceed down Woodland Ferry Road to the west side of the area affected. Command advised Emergency Operations to alert Blades VFC, for an assist. Engine 71-3 responded with Chief Jason Hudson. They were tasked with assessing the situation on Sussex Highway. The initial challenge was to determine just how wide spread the incident truly was. Blades units were soon redirected to their own incident for a building collapse in the area of Pepper Road. Command requested Seaford and Bridgeville be brought to the scene with ATVs and rescue equipment. Delmar, which had been en route to Laurel, was redirected to the scene. Engine 81-3 and Brush 81-0 from Laurel’s Station 2 were directed to incidents east of Sussex Highway. Gumboro VFC was alerted to stand by at Laurel, and handled four additional calls while on stand-by. Incident Command met on scene with Chief Hill and Emergency Operations Director Joe Thomas and it was decided to establish a formal command post at Laurel’s Fire Station. Sussex County Technical Rescue was requested to the scene. Emergency Operations staff responded and assisted with management of operations. Staff at the Command Post included DEMA, Public Health, Delaware State Police, Red Cross Delaware, Seaford Fire Chief Jack Wilson, Blades Deputy Chief Jason Tharp, Tucker Dempsey, Delaware State Fire School, Sussex Tech Rescue Officers, Steve Gilbert and Kyle Perry, along with Glenn Marshal of SCEMS and Chip Guy, Sussex County Public Information Officer. Recovery operations began in the immediate Laurel area at sunrise by going door to door through the affected areas. The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-2 tornado and severe storms overnight left at least nine buildings severely damaged and condemned, and more than 350 households and businesses without power, some of which could stay dark until midday the following day. Western Sussex County was hit especially hard, particularly along the US Route 9 corridor in an area generally from Portsville to Hardscrabble. As many as two dozen structures suffered damage with roofs damaged, trees toppled, and utility poles snapped. Of those, nine structures — seven houses and two commercial buildings — were condemned by the Sussex County Technical Rescue team. Despite the intense, localized damaged, no fatalities have been reported; only one person sustained minor injuries. The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado rated as an EF-2 with winds of approximately 120 mph traveled for just over six miles, carving a path of destruction that measured only 50 yards wide in some spots. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 19
Wilmington Worker Rescued From Ship
Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were recently alerted for an injured worker on vessel at Berth 5 in the Port of Wilmington. Units found the injured worker on a ship, below deck approximately five feet. Skyboom 2 made patient contact and determined it was necessary for the patient to be removed utilizing ropes and rigging. Battalion Chief Richard Danner assumed command, and utilized
the WFD Special Operations Team to affect a rescue. The rescue team descended and packaged the patient in a Stokes basket. Crews utilized the onboard crane to hoist the patient out of the ship and lower him over to dockside units. Additional crews and EMS personnel transferred the patient to Wilmington Hospital. - Submitted by John Looney
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Life Saved at Wilmington Water Rescue Recently, Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon were dispatched to a water rescue in the area of Rosa Parks Drive for a female in the water. Battalion Chief Richard Danner was told by witnesses that a female had jumped into the Christina River, resurfaced briefly in visible distress, and then disappeared. Nearby rowers were alerted by Danner and offered assistance. Two members of Engine 1 boarded the coach’s boat and immediately began searching the last known area of the victim. Crews located her just under the surface
and pulled her into the boat, unconscious and not breathing. The crew immediately began CPR and transferred her to the dock. Once on the dock, an aggressive resuscitation effort was continued with the remaining Engine 1 crew, ALS, and BLS who revived the woman. - Submitted by Andrew Cavanaugh
Trench Rescue in Christiana
On January 25, 2019, at 0954 hours, a Christiana Fire ambulance was dispatched to Old Baltimore Pike for a person fallen call. B12 arrived and found a construction worker in a trench, trapped by a section of concrete and macadam which had collapsed during roadway construction. The worker had been standing in the six-foot trench when the collapse occurred and the material pinned one of his legs. B12 called for assistance and, when Tower 12 arrived, the New Castle County Special Operations High Angle/Confined Space Rescue Team was dispatched. Deputy 6 established command, Special Ops 201 (Haley) was assigned as Operations Supervisor. USAR 13, HACSR15, HACSR 11, Rescue 14, and SQ23 also responded with special ops technicians and equipment. Tower 12 was utilized as a high anchor point with a 3:1 rigging attached. The trench was stabilized and the area around the trench was cleared. At one point a 10inch corrugated pipe and surrounding stone at the edge of the trench began to destabilize and had to be secured. The area around the patient’s leg was excavated and the patient was placed into a Stokes basket and removed by Tower 12. The patient was classified as a Trauma Code and then transferred to DSP Trooper 4 and transported to the Trauma Center. Due to the length of the incident the St. Francis EMS Rehab Unit responded to assist personnel on scene. - Submitted by Dennis Godek
Page 22, Fire News, June 2019
TRAINING
MVC Rescue Training
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Up Close & Personal
Firefighters participated in a motor vehicle rescue training at Station 47 recently. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Vehicle Rescue Training in Elsmere
On April 22, 2019, crews from Elsmere conducted vehicle rescue training at the firehouse. Training was led by Chief Facciolo and Assistant Chief Schweiger. Members went over basic vehicle stabilization, removing doors, the roof and rolling the dash. On Friday members conducted vehicle rescue training on an overturned vehicle. Members went over vehicle anatomy, removing a patient, and challenges of a vehicle on its roof. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Brandywine Pump Ops Class Firefighters from Brandywine Hundred Fire Company train at a recent pump operations class. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Millsboro Firefighters Matt Ebke, James Riley and Dylan Ebke hydrate after assisting Station 80 (Indian River) on a house fire. - Submitted by Larry Gum
Recently, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company, along with mutual aid from Christiana, Mill Creek, Cranston Heights, and Hockessin were dispatched to the unit block of Newbrook Road in Windy Hills for a residential fire. The fire had extended to the second floor and basement but was quickly extinguished. Two adults and three children were displaced. The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office found that there were no working smoke detectors in the house. Assistant Chief Sands had Newark Command. - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands
Recently, Millsboro Fire and EMS units responded to an accident in the Peninsula Shopping Center to find two vehicles involved, with one overturned. - Submitted by Lary Gum
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 23
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TRAINING
Active Shooter Drill at the Kent County Admin Complex
On April 10, 2019, an active shooter/violent intruder drill was held at the Kent County Administrative Complex located on Bay Road in Dover. The scenario was a hostile intruder who breeched the county security perimeter, shot the guard and nine other people in the building. Victims were located on the first floor of the complex, while the second floor was out of play. Dover Police Department and Kent County Department of Public Safety responded to perform their respective functions. Kent County DPS and Dover Police began planning for the drill late 2018-early 2019. In March, training sessions were held for county employees to brush up on Avoid/Deny/Defend skills learned in 2017. This time, learning was reinforced with an exercise. Among the objectives, a primary goal was to provide an opportunity for personnel to become more familiar with the county’s hostile intruder procedures, their roles within it, and inter-agency response to an active shooter. To address the concerns of some employees who were apprehensive about the exercise, City of Dover Deputy Police Chief Tim Stump visited each office to answer questions and offer assurances to employees, and to share his experiences conducting numerous exercises at other places
throughout the city. The morning of the drill, there was a two-hour delay in opening the Complex to allow for the exercise to take place. Equipment provided by the Department of Homeland Security through their nationally certified hostile intruder training program, and other props, made the scenario as close to real-life as possible. By 0930 the drill was over, and employees reported to the Levy Court Chambers to debrief. “Employees did what they were supposed to do. Everyone evacuated quickly and efficiently,” said Public Safety Chief Colin Faulkner. “And paramedics were able to practice important skills in a warm zone — where treatment is provided with nearby police activity.” Glitches within the county’s facility to provide optimal protection for employees and visitors were identified and addressed within days after the exercise. Overall, the exercise was a huge success, allowing multiple agencies to work together, while allowing employees to learn how to protect and defend themselves, and perhaps others, during a crisis. Many of the employees thanked DPS staff for having the drill. Kudos to both Kent County Department of Public Safety and Dover Police Department for a job well done! - Submitted by Kelly Pitts
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 25
Delaware Fire Service in Action
patched to assist ristiana Fire was dis Ch , 19 20 , in the 26 y ar On Janu ntial structure fire Ladder on a reside d an ok Ho se Ho . Aetna ity of Newark Scottfield commun nnis Godek De by d itte - Subm
Recently, Engine an d Ladder 9 assisted the Singerly Fire Company on a fire in the 200 block of Cherry Hill Road in Elkton (MD). - Subm itted by Jeffrey Sand s; photo courtesy of Ae tna photographer Da ve Wilson
On February 28, 2019, Clayton, along with mutu al aid, were alerted for a residential structure fire in the 300 block of Black Stallion Road. - Submitted by Mike Carroll, Jerry Hull and Joe Jones scue responded to the Re arydel firefighters M , 19 20 , 13 ch . ar On M n 700 on an MVC Box assisting Statio Mike Bredin by d itte - Subm
On April 15, 2019, Five Points was alerted for a ladder and engine assist to Wilmington on a second alarm in the 200 block of South Market Street. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes, photo by Nozzle Nut Photography
On April 15, 2019, Harrington Fire responded on Toby Collins Lane. - Submitted by Earl Brode
for an MVC
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SCEMS
Jordan Dattoli Promoted to Field Training Supervisor Recently Sussex County EMS promoted Jordan Dattoli to the position of Field Training Supervisor. In this position Jordan will directly supervise the department’s Field Training Officers. He will also be responsible for organizing “Academies” that will help to prepare new hires before they enter their field apprenticeships. Additionally, Jordan will play a pivotal role in the advancement of the department’s various education platforms, with the sole goal of expanding the County Paramedics’ knowledge base and improving their overall performance. Jordan has been a Paramedic with Sussex County EMS for seven years. He also works as a nurse within Beebe Health Care’s Hospital, and has served in multiple roles within that system. Jordan relates that he’s always had a passion for education, and taking on the role of Field Training Supervisor will help him to attain his goal of “shaping high fidelity paramedics.” Jordan conveys that he looks forward to the challenges ahead and is dedicated to furthering the education and performance of his fellow Paramedics. Sussex County EMS would like to congratulate Jordan on his new promotion and is proud to have him serving in this critical position within the department. - Submitted by Matt Farlow
Sussex County Paramedics Promote Stop the Bleed
Trauma continues to be the leading cause of death in populations 46years and younger; and bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death in trauma. Sussex County EMS recognizes this and is committed to decreasing death and disability to its citizens and visitors. Stop the Bleed is a national awareness campaign and call-to-action. Stop the Bleed is intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. On May 14, 2019, SCEMS partnered with the Office of EMS and allied agencies to bring Stop the Bleed training to Dover’s Legislative Hall. For three hours Paramedics Megan Adams, Trent Hill and Andrew Vickers taught legislators the importance of this training while giving
Sussex County Honors Cardiac Arrest Survivors and First Responders
them the opportunity to apply their new-found knowledge on various training aides. At the completion of this training Delaware legislators proclaimed May as Stop the Bleed month and May 23 as Stop the Bleed day. A large supporter of this proclamation was Lieutenant Governor Bethany HallLong. SCEMS has worked diligently to bring Stop the Bleed training to the public. This summer you will see your paramedics at many large community events teaching this life saving skill alongside our popular Take Ten Hands only CPR training. - Submitted by Andrew Vickers
On May 11, 2019 the Sussex County Ambulance Association and Sussex County EMS held their annual Sussex County Phoenix Club Awards at the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company. In 2018, 39 people survived a cardiac arrest event neurologically intact in Sussex County with the help of first responders, 911 dispatchers and civilians. Each year in the United States, nearly 420,000 people suffer from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests with very few surviving. The American Heart Association hopes to increase those odds by using the “Chain of Survival,” which includes early notification by 911 dispatchers with instructions on how to perform CPR, early CPR and the use of an AED, followed by early advanced care and transport to a cardiac care facility. Along with the 39 survivors, 287 rescuers were honored at the ceremony. Recipients were presented with the Phoenix award, symbolic of the mythological bird that is reborn. - Submitted by Sharon Wile
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 29
SCEMS
Sussex County Holds Annual EMS Awards Banquet
On April 27, 2019, Sussex County EMS, Sussex County Paramedic Association and the Sussex County Ambulance Association held their annual EMS Awards Banquet. The banquet was held at Mulligan’s Point in Georgetown. The banquet recognizes District EMTs, Paramedic of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, Administrative Excellence, nurses and doctors. The Paramedic Association also awards a scholarship to a student interested in a career in EMS. Congratulations to all of the winners! - Submitted by Sharon Wile
Page 30, Fire News, June 2019
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NCC*EMS
NCCo Medic Bradford Honored as Paramedic of the Quarter
Paramedic First Class Brian C. Bradford was recognized as the Paramedic of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2019 by the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington. Paramedic 1/C Bradford received the recognition during the Kiwanis Club quarterly awards luncheon held at the Hotel DuPont. Paramedic 1/C Bradford was cited for his response to a trench rescue in January 2019 that involved an over-two-hour extrication effort. Fire department rescue personnel worked for 30 to 40 minutes stabilizing the trench to prevent further collapse and render it safe for delivery of patient care. The victim was trapped by his legs from large pieces of asphalt and concrete in an approximately 8 to
10-foot-deep trench. Paramedic 1/C Bradford spent an hour and 44 minutes providing patient care in the trench throughout the rescue effort. His delivery of advanced life support care included ongoing patient assessments, spinal immobilization, establishing an intravenous line, administering pain medications and applying a tourniquet. “Paramedic 1/C Bradford’s delivery of advanced life support care under difficult conditions, while coordinating with a technical rescue operation, is a tribute to his dedication and skill,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan. “His actions during this incident uphold the highest traditions of the emergency medical service.” Paramedic 1/C Bradford was appointed to
Resuscitation Academy The New Castle County Paramedics offered a one-day Resuscitation Academy for emergency responders on June 1, 2019, at the New Castle County Gilliam Building in New Castle. The Resuscitation Academy focuses on the science behind response to out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest cases and identifies the details that result in long-term survival of cardiac arrest patients. The program included hands-on training for all participants and was eligible for EMS continuing education credit from the Delaware Office of Emergency Medical Services. For more information contact Captain Dawn Gulezian at Dawn.Gulezian@newcastlede.gov or by calling 302-395-8183. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
the Emergency Medical Services Division in 2012 after completing his paramedic education at the Lancaster General College of Nursing and Health Sciences. His other official commendations include a Distinguished Unit Citation, Unit Letter of Commendation, Letter of Commendation, a Special Citation and the Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation (10 awards). - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 31
NCC*EMS
Running for a Cause
On April 25, 2019, the third New Castle County Paramedic Academy Class participated in the 2019 Lt. Joseph Szczerba Memorial 5K Run in Wilmington. The annual event recognizes the LODD of New Castle County Police Lieutenant Szczerba, by rais-
ing funds for a scholarship fund in his honor. The Paramedic Academy Class was joined by recruits from the Wilmington Police Academy, Wilmington Fire Academy and New Castle County Police Academy classes. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
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NCC*EMS
Covering a Run and Learning at the Same Time
On April 28, 2019, the New Castle County Paramedics provided medical coverage for the Delaware Marathon and Running Festival with several partner agencies including the Wilmington Fire Department, St. Francis Healthcare EMS, University of Delaware Emergency Care Unit and Good Will Fire Company. The event route included
the Jack Markell Trail, which extends from the Wilmington Riverfront to New Castle. The annual event provides an opportunity to exercise medical event planning, inter-operable communications, and special operations capabilities with all-terrain vehicles and EMS bike teams. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
NCCo Medic Sliney Honored by Sons of the American Revolution Paramedic Senior Corporal Kenneth M. Sliney was recognized for 20 years of service as a tactical paramedic with New Castle County EMS by the Delaware Society Sons of the American Revolution. S/Corporal Sliney received the EMS Commendation Medal during an awards luncheon held on April 21, 2019, at the Maple Dale Country Club in Dover. S/Corporal Sliney has over 27 years of service with New Castle County EMS, including his 20 years as a tactical paramedic in the Special Operations Group. The Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) program assigns specially trained paramedics to support police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams and provide medical support during high-risk situations. S/Cpl. Sliney has also served as the non-commissioned officer in charge of the TEMS program since 2016. He recently announced his intention to step down as a tactical paramedic in May 2019. The Sons of the American Revolution Emergency Medical Services Commendation Medal is presented for accomplishments and/or outstanding contribution in an area of emergency medical services. It is intended for certified EMS personnel who have performed an act or service beyond that normally expected. S/Cpl. Sliney’s other official commendations include the Distinguished Unit Citation (two awards), Unit Letter of Commendation (two awards), a Letter of Commendation,
and the Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation (four awards). “Senior Corporal Sliney is a tenured member of the Emergency Medical Services Division and has been an active participant in our Special Operations Group,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan. “We congratulate him on the recognition he has received from the Delaware Society Sons of the American Revolution and thank him for his contributions to the TEMS program.” - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 33
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Custodial Training at Delaware State Fire School On April 24, 2019, the Delaware State Fire School conducted Custodial Training. This is directed towards new hires in the state school systems. Fifty-four students participated in training including fire extinguishers, fire causes and characteristics, sprinklers and hazardous materials handling. - Submitted by Michael Lowe DSFS
2019 Delaware Farm Bureau Conference On March 6, 2019, the Delaware State Fire School took part in the annual Delaware Farm Bureau annual Safety Conference. The event was held at the Delaware State Fair Grounds. Delaware Secretary of Agriculture welcomed the group. The moderator was June Unruh, of the Delaware Farm Bureau. Presentations took place pertaining to lung safety, by Tyler Shrock of Bay Health. Big bale safety was addressed by Stewart Ramsey, who is a recent survivor of an accident involving large hay bales. Dominic Diossie and Mike Gillett, of
Nationwide Insurance spoke on ATV safety and the life changing 2017 crash that Mr. Diossie endured. The Delaware State Fire School conducted a presentation on CPR with instructors Nick Sawyer and Brian Ferguson giving an overview. Also, the Fire School had a display regarding children’s safety on the farm. Kerry Richards, of the University of Delaware gave a presentation on pesticide exposure. (Right): Nick Sawyer and Brian Ferguson speak on CPR/Early Intervention. - Submitted by Michael Lowe DSFS
Page 34, Fire News, June 2019
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DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Financial Overview Training Conducted The Delaware State Fire School conducted three scheduled seminars covering the Fire Service Financial Overview of Best Practices and Procedures. They were introduced by Director Newnam welcoming the attendees and followed by presenters Ray Stevens and Billy Baker. The presentation went over Resolution 95 and House Bill 243, which outlines the establishment of the task force, as well as recommendations made to have oversight of fire company finances by the State Fire Prevention Commission. Seminars took place May 8, 2019, in New Castle County, in Sussex County on May 15, and in Kent County on May 22. Over 130 students were registered for these classes. - Submitted by Michael Lowe DSFS
Second Annual Empowerment Day, Women’s Leadership Seminar: Deemed a Success! Eighty participants gathered for the second annual Empowerment Day, Women’s Leadership Seminar at the Delaware State Fire School. Hosted by Camp Fury Delaware, this half-day event was a truly positive congregation of first responders and local families alike. Dr. Sandra Gibney (St. Francis Hospital) was the keynote speaker and she did not disappoint. Dr. Gibney is a dedicated female leader in the state and is heavily involved in finding a solution to helping those battling the opioid epidemic. She leads an impactful and influential career in the emergency room and her persistence knows no boundaries regarding her work in the City of Wilmington. Our participants were impressed and inspired by her story. A leadership panel session took place, as well. Panelists included Alaina Battle (UDPD), Alyn Scritchfield (SCTRT/Seaford Fire Co.), Rikki Barnett (D.A.N.G./St. Francis Hospital), Timeka Willis (Belvedere Fire Co./Civil Air Patrol), Nikki Testa (DEMA/Citizen Corps/Wildland Firefighter), Ellen Dickey (DPH/REP Team/TAC), Cheryl Lind (DE National Guard, 201st Engineer FF Team), Becky Keyser (DNREC/Five Points Fire Co) and Amanda Bundek (DPH/Kent County Decontamination Team/ Little Creek Fire Co./American Legion Ambulance No. 64). Panelists were asked a series of questions about their motivation behind their career pathway choices and the participants asked questions as well. The last aspect of Empowerment Day included a tabling event with 20 of Camp Fury’s partners hosting informational booths to network
with our participants. For more information on Camp Fury activities please contact Sarah Highberger, Director of Camp Fury Delaware from the Delaware State Fire School: 302-650-7336, email: CampFuryDelaware@gmail.com or follow us on social media. Facebook: Camp Fury Delaware, Instagram: @campfurydelaware, Twitter: @campfuryde. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Delaware Sprinkler Coalition Teams with Maryland Firefighters Through efforts of the Delaware Fire Sprinkler Coalition and its Chairman Paul Eichler, a “Side by Side” demonstration took place on March 28, 2019, at the Delaware State Fire School. This was presented by the Maryland State Firefighters Association using their “Side by Side” trailer. The demonstration, again, showed the dramatic effectiveness of one fire sprinkler head on a residential fire. - Submitted by Michael Lowe DSFS
Page 36, Fire News, June 2019
Marydel Holds CPR and AED Class for Vineyard Employees On March 27, 2019, employees from Harvest Ridge Winery participated in a CPR and AED class at Marydel Volunteer Fire Company. The training was necessary, as the winery recently received a donated AED provided by Marydel. Although the winery is in close proximity to the firehouse, timing and early access is essential to saving the life of someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.With the many events the winery hosts each year, and the large attendance at several of the events, Marydel VFC felt it was necessary for winery to have their own AED. - Story by Randy Barr; Submitted by Mike Bredin
CPR Awards
On February 27, 2019, members of the Five Points Fire Company attended the Annual Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor’s Reunion in support of our members who were honored for their participation on a call where the patient survived a sudden cardiac arrest. These members were either performing their duties with Five Points or the departments they work for. Congratulations to: Brandon Bolinski, Ryan Hahn, Eric Johnson, Brittany Paoli, Tim Strusowski and Lorrie Williams. - Submitted by Charles Hayes
Watson Recognized for 30 Years Service During the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Conference held in Highstown, New Jersey, May 9 through 12, 2019, Life Member Jim Watson, was recognized for his 35 years of service to the Eastern Division. Jim has served in the past as the Delaware Director and then went through the chairs and served as President of the association. He continues to support the Association by attending their meetings and conferences. - Submitted by Wally Poppe
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Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chief's Officers 2019-2020 (Back row): Past President Jim Yates - NJ; Director Bob Weer - PA; Executive Director Bill Walton - DE; Director Stephen 'Redman' Maichle - DE. (Front row): International Director Ted Lowden - PA; 1st VicePresident Frank Hand - PA; Director Paul Sullivan - MD; 2nd Vice-President Terry Jester - DE; Director Joe Cunningham - NJ; President Joe Fahd - NY. Missing: Director Julius Leone - NY. - Submitted by Terry Jester
Clayton Associate Member Lands Grant for Company Associate Member Julie Reed of the Clayton Fire Company was presented with a $5,000 grant from PepCoHoldings — DelMarVa Power — on May 9, 2019 in Washington, DC. Julie, a Senior Business Analyst, approached the company several months ago asking Clayton President Kevin Wilson if the company would like to apply for a grant from PepCoHoldings. The fire company could receive a grant ranging from $5,000 up to $20,000from PepCo. President Wilson completed the grant application and forwarded the information to PepCoHoldings. On May 1, the company was advised that Julia had been chosen to receive a $5,000 grant in her name for the fire company. Julie received her award on May 9, 2019. Fire Chief Alex Carrow stated that, “Having members like Julie step in and take an active role in the fire company not as a firefighter, but as an associate member, allows the fire firefighters to take a step back to allow others to assist in the administrative functions of the company.” Chief Carrow and President Wilson are putting the grant to use by purchasing special cancer protection hoods. (Left to right): David Velazquez, President PepCoHoldings and Julie Reed. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson; PIO, Clayton FC
Laurel FFs Participate in First Responders Day On March 12, 2019, North Laurel Early Learning Academy students were shown firefighters gear and taught that the firefighter is their friend and not someone to be scared of. The students also received a tour of a fire engine and ambulance. (Pictured): Firefighters Doug Butler, Colby Phleger and Mike Lowe with students of NLELC. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 37
Honoring a Hero
Units set up for the dignified transfer detail for Staff-Sergeant Slutman. Crossed ladders were Smyrna and Cecilton Truck 1. - Submitted by Isaac J. Hankins
Chief Emeritus Walter R. Hurst Honored for 65 Years of Service
On April 27, 2019, during their Annual Awards Banquet, Brandywine Hundred Fire Company, No. 1 unveiled the Walter R. Hurst Memorial Award for Outstanding Dedication. Chief Emeritus Hurst was presented with this award and received a standing ovation during the ceremony. This award was created and named after Walter R. Hurst in honor of his 65 active years of dedicated service to Brandywine Hundred Fire Company. This award will continue to be presented at our annual awards dinner to a member who best exemplifies dedication to the
Brandywine Hundred Fire Company throughout the previous year. Chief Emeritus Hurst has served in the capacity of many elected and appointed positions during his tenure at Brandywine Hundred Fire Company. Chief Emeritus Hurst has seen the volunteer fire service evolve and change over the last 65 years; but his dedication of service, quality leadership and honor has never wavered. Thank you, Chief Emeritus Hurst for all you have done and all that you continue to do for Brandywine Hundred Fire Company and our community. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Page 38, Fire News, June 2019
Houston Recognizes Yerkes for 60 Years of Service
On March 23, 2019, Theodore ‘Teddy’ Yerkes received an award for 60 years of service to the Houston Volunteer Fire Company where he is also a lifetime member. Over the years, Yerkes, has held the positions of President, Vice-President, Secretary and Fire Police. He also drove trucks to fire calls and enjoyed helping with the annual appreciation crab feast. He was instrumental in implementing some of the company’s policies and procedures still in effect today. Yerkes has been a loyal and dedicated member of the Houston Volunteer Fire Company as well as to the citizens of the Houston community and was very involved in the company until recently. He still attends the majority of the company meetings and continues to voice his opinion. Houston Volunteer Fire Company has been very fortunate to have such a dedicated member over the years. The world is a better place because of members like Teddy Yerkes. Thank you for your time and many years of service to the Fire Company and the community! - Submitted by Cheryl Wyatt
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Elsmere’s Mitchell Graduates from Fire Academy
On May 23, 2019, Firefighter Mitchell Palmer graduated from the 5th New Castle County Fire Academy. Mitchell is now a Pro Board Level 1 and 2 Firefighter. Congratulations, Mitchell, from the officers and members of the Elsmere Fire Company. - Submitted by Frank Maule
Brandywine Hundred Detector Campaign Kicks Off
On April 6, 2019 several officers and members of Brandywine Hundred Fire Company 1 hit the streets of their district to launch their new Smoke Detector Campaign. The crews spent several hours of their first day going door-to-door inspecting existing smoke detectors, installing new detectors, replacing batteries and sharing fire prevention tips with the residents. The campaign will continue throughout the year to achieve the company’s mission of ensuring that all homes have working detectors. - Submitted by Debra Finocchiaro
Deputy Chiefs Emeritus
Three Deputy Chief Emeritus from the east side in New Castle County attending the 100th anniversary celebration of the AhrensFox at Good-Will Fire Company 1 on March 17, 2019. (Left to right): Mike Rush from Wilmington Manor Fire Company, George Greenley from Holloway Terrace Fire Company, and Joe Mullen from Good-Will Fire Company. - Submitted by Joe Mullen
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 39
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig
This installment will be about a lady who has dedicated her life to the Talleyville Ladies Auxiliary, Sara Lucille Vandenbraak, better known as ‘Dotty.’ Born on May 21, 1921, she joined the Auxiliary in 1950 and has 69 years of service to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Talleyville Fire Company. I don’t think there are many out there who can beat that! The Hague family moved to Talleyville in 1908 and Dotty’s father’s family owned a home and operated a store, known as Hague’s Store on the Concord Pike. The house and store were located a few doors away from the firehouse. Originally, fires were reported by phone to the home of her grandfather, Vice-President William ‘Bert’ Hague, Sr. This phone was part of a system at the firehouse which could activate the siren at the station. In the fall and winter of 1927, the store was the meeting place of the local men who organized the fire company which received its charter in 1928. Dotty’s three brothers, Bill, Bob and Jim, belonged to the fire company and her sisters, Bea, Dennie and Ann Goudy belonged to the Auxiliary. She graduated from P. S. DuPont High School. As a young girl, she belonged to Delaware’s first all-girl drum and bugle corps that was always a part of the Ladies Auxiliary marching unit of the Talleyville Fire Company at the annual DVFA parades. She married John G. Vandenbraak in 1945. Her brother got her husband interested in the fire company and he became very active and served as President in the 60s and 70s. Dotty and Gerry had six sons (Larry, Tippy, Mike,
Bill, Carr and Gerry) who all followed in their parent’s footsteps and joined the fire company. Four of the boys and a grandson are active with Talleyville Fire Company, and their sons’ and grandsons’ wives are active in our auxiliary. By the way, Dotty has 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Talk about a firehouse family, I think this has most any others in Delaware beat! Even though Dotty would never hold an office, she has been a great asset to the auxiliary. For many years she was chairperson of the craft table for our annual craft show. She opened her home to the auxiliary to make crafts for the auxiliary craft table for the annual show. Dotty and her sisters would staff the table at the craft show for many years. She always has a positive attitude and is fun to be around. She is a true asset to our auxiliary. What a legacy she has provided the Talleyville Fire Company and Auxiliary. This entire family — Hague’s and Vandenbraak’s — have been there to help out since the beginning of the early Talleyville years and we owe them our sincere gratitude. They are true pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service. To the Hague and Vandenbraak families, thanks for all that you have done to make the Talleyville Fire Company what it is today. Let’s hope that they continue to do so. (Information for this article was provided to the writer by Ms Lynn Warner, past-President of the LADVFA.)
Page 40, Fire News, June 2019
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South Bowers Awards Banquet The South Bowers Volunteer Fire Company Member Appreciation and Awards Banquet was held in the Jack French Banquet Facility on April 6, 2019. The fun filled evening began with an open bar and surf-and-turf appetizers. Once again, our friends from
Seafood City of Felton and Mission BBQ of Dover did a great job. Bessie Butler, Charter and Life member of the auxiliary received the Auxiliary Member of the Year Award. The Top 5 Responder Award Winners For 2018 were: First Assistant Chief Alvin ‘AJ’ Walls, Chief Bobby Johnson, Firefighter Donna Sivley, Fire Police-Driver-Pump Operations Vinnie Trice; and Fire Police-Driver-Pump Operations former-Chief Engineer Jimmy LeCates. The Junior Member of the Year Award went to Firefighter James Bleu who was totally surprised with the announcement. The 2018 Fire Police Office of the Year Award went to Richard ‘Skip’ Webb. The South Bowers Chief’s Award went to Deputy Chief Chad Holleger for his dedication and continued support. The 2018 Firefighter of the Year Award went to Second Assistant Chief Clay Maloney. - Submitted by Donna Sivley
Special Olympics Fundraiser
The 9th annual Special Olympics Delaware Over the Edge rappelling fundraiser was held in downtown Wilmington. Nearly 100 “edgers” registered to rappel down the 17-story, glass, high-rise office building, located on Delaware Avenue, throughout the day. Sponsored by Brandywine Realty Trust, TD Bank and the New Castle County Fire Service, “Over the Edge” is the only rappelling
fundraiser event of its kind in Delaware. Participants were required to raise a minimum of $1,100 in pledges in order to participate, with all proceeds going to Special Olympics Delaware. In its eight years, the event has raised more than $1 million dollars. - Submitted by Tom Mitten
South Bowers Easter Celebration The South Bowers annual Spring party was held on a rainy, windy, nasty April 13, 2019, with 42 children attending to meet the Easter bunny. To pass the time waiting for the Easter Bunny to arrive the children were seated on a large piece of carpet and a round table carpet conversation with a Q-and-A session was created by instructors Joyce Holman and Donna Sivley. This was followed by a short session about STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, and THINK. Then, Safety Officer Robert Blackburn, in full gear with SCBA, exited a closet enveloped by smoke. What an effect! A tasty brunch was served by the Auxiliary and activities such as coloring pages, games and more were scattered around the room while beach balls flew through the air. The use of beach balls to expend energy was a great idea! Auxiliary President Janice Walls, came up with the idea. Without warning, a loud siren and flashing lights appeared in front of the station. The Easter Bunny had finally arrived in style. The Easter Bunny was enthusiastically greeted by everyone. Mr. Bunny greeted each child and pictures were taken to commemorate the party. Master Ryker James Johnson, (age three months) son of South
Bowers Chief Bobby Johnson and Valerie Alexis made his first official appearance to a fire company event. It was a big surprise. Due to the inclement weather the Chief Brian LeGates Memorial Engine Room was set up for the Easter Egg Hunt. Amber Burk, past-Auxiliary President did an excellent job hiding the eggs. The sun began to shine later in the afternoon. The last activity was the anticipated fire truck ride with the Easter Bunny through the county. As the goodbyes were given and hugs exchanged, each child received a special edition spring fire safety activity book, a box of 24 Crayola crayons, a huge bag of candy and a few pieces of fruit. - Submitted by Donna Sivley
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Obituaries
Fire News, June 2019, Page 41
Elsmere’s William Walton, Sr. The officers and members of the Elsmere Fire Company are sad to report the passing of pastPresident William Walton. Sr. Bill, or ‘Pop’ as he was called, was an awesome person who will be missed by the membership. He held the office of President and was on many committees throughout his years at Elsmere. He was past-President of Delaware State Firefighters Association and was also President of the New Castle County Volunteer Firefighter Association and the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association. The Elsmere Fire Company sends thoughts and prayers to all his family and friends! - Submitted by Frank Maule
Clayton’s Nancy L. Scotton Nancy L. Scotton, age 82, of Clayton, Delaware, passed away at her home on April 15, 2019. Nancy was a Charter and Life Member of Clayton Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, since its inception in 1959. She was a 60-year member and held officer positions for 32 years. Her awards included Kent County Auxiliary Member of the Year in 2007, Clayton Fire Company Auxiliary Member of the Year in 2012, and LADVFA Hall of Recognition in 2015. She is survived by two sons, Carl R. ‘Rick’ Scotton, Jr., and wife Janet; and Donald ‘Wayne’ Scotton, and wife Sheila; daughter, Carol L. Arrington and husband Gary; five grandchildren, Jason and Justin Arrington, Adam Arrington, Wayne Scotton, Jr., and Lauren Scotton; three great grandchildren; two brothers, John ‘Jackie’ Davis and wife
Georgia; and Donald Davis; two sisters, Ethel Staats and husband George, and Betty Ann Davis; five nephews; and two nieces. A viewing was held April 19, 2019 and burial was private. In lieu of flowers donations in Nancy’s memory may be made to: Clayton Fire Co. Auxiliary, PO Box 674, Clayton, DE 19938. Condolence letters and cards may be sent to the family at Nancy's address: PO Box 641, Clayton, DE 19938 Nancy is loved and will be greatly missed. Thank you very much, Nancy, for all that you have done to better our organization. Let's send our thoughts and prayers to the family and to the Clayton Auxiliary for closure and peace. - Submitted by Donna Sivley
Charity Lodge 27 Makes Donation to Laurel EMS For several weeks the Laurel Fire Department EMS division has conducted a community effort to raises funds to purchase a LUCAS device, which provides valuable assistance in the application of proper chest compressions during CPR. The most recent community group to support the effort was the Laurel Charity Lodge 27. They made a donation of $1000 to support the effort. (Pictured): County Councilman, John Rielly, Jamie Ashmead, Laurel Career EMS, Bill Rose, Asst. Chief of EMS, Jerry Lynch of the Charity Lodge and Mike Lowe, Asst. Chief of Laurel Fire Dept. and member of the Charity Lodge. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Sussex Little Leaguers Help First Responders A post from a Sussex County Little League team went viral on social media, after members shared that they donated food to first responders who were working to help communities devastated by the April 15, 2019, EF2 tornado. The Laurel Little League posted on Facebook that they took time to donate food to firefighters, police, EMS and others who were helping the community. The tornado ripped through the small southern Delaware town damaging homes, knocking down trees and power lines. The Facebook post said “Even in tragedy, there is a silver lining of hope.” It continues to say that the organization chose to donate burgers, hot dogs and cookies, “to the first responders that are on call fighting the good fight.” The post ended with hashtag including: #ItTakesAVillage #PrayForLaurel #ItsBiggerThanTheGame. Comments flooded the post saying things like, “Our communities always come together in good times and especially in bad times to lift up people who are hurting and suffering! Bravo! Everyone of you are amazing and you make us proud.” - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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25th Hob Ryan Dinner. That’s a LOT of Years!
The fire companies had 7,198 years of service represented and the ladies auxiliary had 3,762 years for a total of 10,960 years of service. Fire company members with 70-or-more years of service in attendance were Jasper Lakey 70, Earl Ridley 70-plus, and Wally Hudson 77.
Ladies with 60-or-more years were Ginny Houck 67, Irene Hoynicki 68, Patricia McCall 61, Marge Crosby 67, and Elaine Jones 70. - Submitted by Gene Shaner
Annual EMS Visit to Washington The National Association of EMTs (NAEMT) held their annual EMS on Capitol Hill Event on Tuesday, April 9 and Wednesday, April 10, 2019, in Washington, DC. An orientation and briefing session was held on Tuesday afternoon and pre-arranged visits to see and speak to our congressional representatives took place on Wednesday. We were able to visit the offices alongside the Capitol to see and speak to our representatives and/or their staff leaders on national EMS bills and concerns. Afterwards a reception was held at the Rayburn Congressional Building for a wrap up of our 2019 accomplishments. There were also the NAEMT Advocacy Awards for several advocates who did an outstanding job in communicating with their representatives over the past year. This year we had five from Delaware attend including St. Francis EMS led by Chief Scott Bundek, Captains Michael O’Connor, Sean Chudzik and Gary Peterson along with DSEMSA Secretary W. Mike McMichael. - Submitted by Mike McMichael
Clayton Service Awards
On March 12, 2019, Clayton held their Annual Service Awards Program during their company meeting. This event is held yearly and is a way to recognize members for their years of service to the company and community. Annual awards are presented for alarm attendance and years of service. This year several additional awards were presented for extrications during serious entrapments throughout the year. There was also two Life Saving Awards pre-
sented to Assistant Chief Joe Jones for one incident and Assistant Chief Jeff Lightcap, Captain Craig Snyder, Firefighters Dave Ross and Chuck Kelchner for another in which their direct actions during two different CPR calls resulted in both victims making complete recoveries. Several other members who also responded to these two calls received a Unit Citation Award for their assistance. - Submitted by Gene Shaner and Mike Carrol
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Delaware Forest Service’s Annual Fire Camp
The Delaware Forest Service’s annual “Fire Camp” training at Blackbird State Forest on March 30, 2019 whose attendees included members of volunteer fire companies throughout the state as
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well as Delaware Forest Service staff. The event serves as a refresher and certification for an NWCG Red Card to serve on an out-ofstate wildland fire crew. - Submitted by John Peterson
Area Agencies Participate in Nanticoke Health Services Fair
On March 16, 2019, Nanticoke Health Services hosted their annual Health Fair at the Laurel High School. Nearly 100 vendors were present with 900 people being recorded as in attendance. This is one
of the largest Health and Safety Events of the year in lower Delaware. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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Cover Story
Hunting Quarter Rd. Trailer Fire
Station 47, Tanker Company 52, Ambulance 50 and KM8 responded to a trailer fire on Hunting Quarter Road. Engine 78-2 stood by at Station 47. - Submitted by Tom Williams
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Honoring a Fallen Marine On April 22, 2019, Ladder 17 and Ladder 21-7, along with multiple other companies from the surrounding area, were assigned to the Churchman’s Road overpass to Interstate 95 for the procession of US Marine Corps Staff-Sergeant Christopher Slutman. SSgt. Slutman was killed earlier this month while serving in Afghanistan. SSgt. Slutman, a Delaware resident, was an FDNY firefighter and a life member of Kentland Fire Company in Maryland. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. - Submitted by Charles Hayes
The Millsboro Fire Company 2019 Hospitality Night President Ron Oneal honored retiring administration assistant Judy Doughty at the Millsboro Fire Company Hospitality Night. Chief Matt Warrington awarded past-President and past-Chief Ray Burton the Ned Carey Award followed by dinner and music at Independence. - Submitted by Larry Gum
City of Rehoboth Beach Transforms First Responder Communications with FirstNet The City of Rehoboth Beach is connecting its police officers, public works, emergency management and other first responders to FirstNet a new communications platform expressly for public safety. This tech upgrade equips personnel with new capabilities and reliable access to critical information while in the field, so they can better serve those who live, work and visit Rehoboth Beach. FirstNet is designed to improve communications across public safety entities nationwide, allowing first responders to easily and quickly communicate with one another during everyday situations, big events or emergencies. This is integral to solving the common roadblock that communications issues have imposed on past public safety responses. “Resiliency is critical, and our department wanted a very robust dedicated broadband communications platform prioritized for public safety,” said Rehoboth Beach Police Chief Keith Banks. The city is using FirstNet to connect its frontline apparatus, modems, routers and all department-issued phones. The City of Rehoboth Beach joined FirstNet to provide first responders with reliable, modern communications tools needed to perform at their best, including: One, nationwide communications platform that allows us to efficiently and effectively coordinate emergency responses across agencies and jurisdictions; Always-on priority and preemption to give us reliable access
to the connection we need - even if the network is congested; a physically separate, highly secure network core purpose-built for public safety’s sensitive communications; Planned increases in coverage and capacity, enabling us to better respond to emergencies in virtually all areas of Rehoboth Beach - and across the state; and innovative tools like relevant applications and connected devices - to give more actionable information for heightened situational awareness. “As a former state trooper, I know how important it is to have reliable communications systems in place to keep our emergency personnel connected. I’m pleased that Rehoboth Beach signed on to FirstNet, giving our first responders an additional tool to help them keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, the Speaker of the Delaware House of Representatives and former Delaware State Police Captain. FirstNet is built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority). It is designed with and for public safety. To learn more about FirstNet, go to FirstNet.com. To learn more about subscribing to FirstNet, contact Rob Walls at 610-772-5189 or rw4167@att.com. Qualified individual first responders can subscribe to FirstNet at a local AT&T store.
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Aetna’s Seppanen and Daniels Sworn In
On December 11, 2018, Aetna had two members sworn into leadership positions with the New Castle County Fire Police Association. Paige Seppanen was sworn in as President and Jerry Daniels was sworn in as the Training Officer. Aetna member, retired Delaware State Police Major (and current UDPD Deputy Chief) Jeff Evans, was the installation officer. Congratulations Paige and Jerry! - Submitted by Jeffrey Sands
New QRS Vehicle for Delaware City The Delaware City Fire Company has placed in service a new QRS Vehicle. This vehicle and trailer were purchased with the help of the City of Delaware City, former Mayor Stan Green and Police Chief/Acting Town Manager Dave Baylor, Delaware City Refinery Public Relations and Community Relations Lisa Lindsey, State Senator Nicole Poore, State Senator Bruce Ennis, State Representative Valerie Longhurst, State Representative Earl Jaques, County Councilman Bill Bell, County Councilman George Smiley and County Council President Karen HartleyNagle. QRS-15 is a ASAP Medstat 500 Base Unit on a six-wheel Polaris Chassis powered by at 65-hp, 800cc gas liquid-cooled power plant, on-demand four-wheel drive, power steering, a 4000 watt generator and 4500-pound electronic winch that can be mounted on the front or the rear of the unit. The unit will have all the necessary EMS equipment including an AED. - Submitted by Wally Poppe
Brandywine Hundred Service Awards Brandywine Hundred Fire Company, No.1 celebrated their 95th anniversary at their annual service awards dinner, which was held on Saturday, April 27, 2019, at the H. Bentz Memorial Hall. Chief Thomas Finocchiaro served as Master of Ceremonies. The awards dinner was attended by members and their families, neighboring fire companies along with State Representative Debra Heffernan and New Castle County Councilman, John Cartier. The following members were each recognized and presented with their distinguished Award for their active years of service (20 percent of fire calls for each year). 10 Years: John M. Gauge and Nicholas J. Tusio 15 Years: Christopher Bonsall, Sr. 40 Years: James J. Jernoske
50 Years: Stephen A. Raign (dec.) and Ronald E. Schmidt, Sr. 65 Years: Walter R. Hurst During the ceremony Elaine Raign and her family graciously accepted the award presented to her husband Director Emeritus, Stephen A. Raign for his (50) years of active service. Steve passed away on March 5, 2018. We also wish to thank Talleyville Fire Company and Five Points Fire Company for covering our station during this event. The officers and members of Brandywine Hundred Fire Company congratulate each member for achieving their milestone service award and we thank all of our members for their continued support, dedication and commitment to the volunteer fire service and the community we serve.
Page 48, Fire News, June 2019
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DVFA Foundation
DVFA Foundation Members (left to right): Laird Stabler, Secretary Carol Walton, Treasurer Ron O'Neal, Isaac Willis, Steve Austin, Jim Cubbage, Lynn Rogers, Dan Burris, and David Majewski, Sr.
Commission Chairman David Roberts congratulates new commissioner William Kelly, Sr.
New Foundation Chairman Lynn Rogers presents plaque to retired Chairman Steve Austin. - Submitted by Warren Jones
Junior Member James Demczak Awarded a Governors Youth Award On May 14, 2019 Clayton Fire Company Junior Member James Demczak was presented a Governors Youth Volunteer Award by Governor John Carney during the annual Governors Youth Volunteer Awards Program. The program was held at the Polytech High School where many Delaware youth volunteers received awards for volunteering their time for many worthy causes. James, 17, has served the Clayton Fire Company as a junior member since he was 16, and has become one of the most active members in the company, not only attending alarms, but trainings, fundraising functions, and other company events. James is the son of Clayton Fire Company Board of Director Denys Demczak, and his father Skip has served the Clayton and Townsend Fire Companies. His grandfather, Charles Price, served in the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown. The Clayton Fire Company would like to congratulate James on his accomplishment. (Left to right): Governor Carney, James Demczak, Staff Member Office of Volunteerism. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson
Martha Rebekahs Make Donation to Laurel EMS For several weeks the Laurel Fire Department EMS division has conducted a community effort to raises funds to purchase a LUCAS device, which provides valuable assistance in the application of proper chest compressions during CPR. The most recent community group to support the effort was the Laurel Martha Rebekahs. They recently voted to make a donation of $500 to support the effort. (Pictured): County Councilman, John Rielly, Jamie Ashmead, Laurel Career EMS, Bill Rose, Asst. Chief of EMS, Dorothy Hickman, Ruth Tull, Maxine Lynch of the Martha Rebekahs and Mike Lowe, Asst. Chief of Laurel Fire Dept. and member of the Charity Lodge. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
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DANA SHAFFER JOINS SUPER VAC AND COMMAND LIGHT AS THE BRANDS’ NEW NORTHEAST SALES MANAGER Dana Shaffer joins Super Vac and Command Light as the brands’ new Northeast Sales Manager. He brings more than 17 years of experience in the fire equipment industry, representing brands like MSA, Lion Fire Gear, Res-Q-Jack and Hurst Jaws of Life as part of Susquehanna Fire Equipment Co. Shaffer now represents Super Vac’s expansive lineup of ventilation equipment, as well as Command Light’s array of scene lighting products. The Super Vacuum Manufacturing brands on-boarded Shaffer earlier in the year. With the arrival of his demo truck this April, Shaffer has hit the ground running. Shaffer also brings 20 years of fire service in the Bloomsburg, Pa., area, where he currently resides. Shaffer is experience in auto extrication, engine operations, ladder response and heavy rescue, as well as specialize rescues, like RIT team, hazard material and low- and medium-angle rope operations. During his time volunteering with the Epsy Fire Department, he held various positions and currently is the Rescue Chief. Shaffer has a background in heavy equipment operation and repair. “Not only does Dana bring a wealth of knowledge to our team, but he’s well respected among industry peers and brings an enthusiasm that truly is contagious,” says Roger Weinmeister, President of Super Vac and Command Light. Shaffer says it’s an exciting time to join these two brands. “With Super Vac’s new DeWalt- and Milwaukee-battery powered fans, the demo requests are rolling in, and I love demos. I really enjoy rolling up my sleeves to work and train with customers. And then there’s Command Light’s tower giveaway, which kicked off at FDIC. The
giveaway encourages departments to see our products in action for a chance to win a Shadow Series tower. There’s nothing like a live demo that lets you compare truck-mounted lights to a Command Light tower. In the end, I love working with new departments and companies every day, and just these two initiatives alone have me busy doing just that.” Shaffer can be reached via email at danas@supervac.com or danas@commandlight.com, or via cell phone at 970-420-1964. To meet Super Vac and Command Lights full sales team, visit supervac.com/sales-support or commandlight.com/sales-support. For more information on Super Vac’s new battery fan, visit supervac.com/battery-powered-ppv, and for details on the light tower giveaway, check out commandlight.com/light-tower-giveaway. About Super Vac – Super Vac is the world’s leading manufacturer in the emergency ventilation products. A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac equips crews with a versatile array of only the toughest solutions, including the industry’s largest lineup of PPV fans, as well as smoke ejectors. Super Vac also manufactures rescue saws, rehab misters and other necessities, including the patented Smoke BlockAid for smoke mitigation. About Command Light – Command Light, of Fort Collins, CO, specializes in scene lighting for the emergency industry and features the best light towers, compact scene lighting, traffic flow boards and other safety lighting products.
South Bowers Honors Adams and LeGates
The South Bowers Volunteer Fire Company Appreciation Night and Awards Banquet was held at the Station on April 7, 2018. It was a night of excitement and presentations. Life Member and past-President Clinton Adams (dec.), was acknowledged and his family publicly thanked for the generous donation of land where the present Fire Station (57 Scotts Corner Road) is located. The meeting room is now proudly named in Adams’ honor The main engine room was proudly named for Life Member/Fire
Chief Emeritus David Bryan LeGates (dec.), for his dedication and outstanding leadership to the company. Chief LeGates’ gear remains in the engine room as a small memorial tribute. Thank you, gentleman, for a job well done. Past-President Adams and Chief LeGates’ vision and hopes for the future still live on! On April 7, 2019, plaques were installed in the meeting room and the engine room to acknowledge and honor both men. - Submitted by Donna Sivley
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Fire Marshal’s Report Storage Building Heavily Damaged Near Harrington
Heavy Fire Damage in Newark
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal determined that a house fire in Newark, Delaware on The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated a fire that May 13, 2019, was accidental. heavily damaged a storage building near Harrington, Delaware on May 28, The blaze, reported around 1130, occurred in the unit block of North 2019. The blaze, reported shortly after 1000, occurred in the 2000 block of Wynwyd Drive - Woodmere. The Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company Ingram Branch Road near the Maryland state line. The Harrington Fire arrived on the scene to flames shooting from the first floor. Company arrived on the scene to find a 40- by 60-foot structure engulfed in State fire investigators were called to the scene to investigate the origin flames. and cause of the fire. The fire began inside the kitchen. Items on top of the State fire investigators searched for the fire’s origin and cause. Heavy stove were accidentally ignited when those items came into contact with the damage was estimated at $100,000. There were no reported injuries. burner on the stove. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $250,000. There were no reported injuries. Smoke alarms inside the house operated.
Kitchen Fire in Milford
Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that an apartment building fire in Milford, Delaware on May 14, 2019, was accidental. The Carlisle Fire Company was called to the Mispillion Apartments off of the 1000 block of South Walnut Street shortly before 1500. Firefighters arrived on the scene to smoke pouring out of a second floor apartment. A 30-yea- old female was transported to the Bayhealth Sussex Campus suffering from smoke inhalation. State fire marshal deputies were called to the scene to investigate the fire’s origin and cause. The fire began on the stovetop when grease was left heating on the stove without supervision. The grease erupted into flames and burned out the kitchen. Fire damage was estimated at $2500. The apartment’s smoke alarm activated as did the building’s fire alarm system when the fire alarm pull station was activated, signaling a fire to the other residents.
Several Buildings Destroyed by Fire Near Hartly Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that a fire on March 20, 2019 near Hartly, Delaware, which destroyed several buildings was accidental. The blaze, reported shortly before noon, occurred in the 5900 block of Westville Road. The Hartly Fire Company responded to the 9-1-1 report of fire on the residential property. State fire investigators were called to the scene and conducted the origin and cause analysis. The fire started when a person using a cutting torch to cut a bolt accidentally ignited a lawnmower under repair. The fire spread from the lawn mower damaging two pole barns and one trailer. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $500,000. There were no reported injuries.
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