Fire News Ohio, February/March 2022 edition

VOLUME 1, NO. 1

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving OHIO Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1973 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022

Story on page 10.

- Submitted by Jim McKeever

Fire News Looking Back See Page 8.

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 3

In this issue...

Hyde Park Electrical Blaze Firefighters were dispatched to a house fire in the 3600 block of Edwards Road in Hyde Park.

See story on page 6

Lincoln Heights Vacant House Fire Glendale Fire Department Engine 45 responded to Lincoln Heights for a fire in a vacant house.

See story on page 13

A Service for Ohio Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director, Production Manager

Coshocton Vacant Home Fire The Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office received a call for a possible house fire on South 6th Street.

See story on page 14

BARBARA CONNOLLY: Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ: Editorial Assistant Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES COPYRIGHT 2022, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 1 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 280 Fax number: (631) 776-1854 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: tim@firenews.com

RMA at I-70 Rollover Bethel Township crews operated at a rollover MVA off Interstate 70 at the 41 milemarker.

See story on page 16

Green Township’s Greg Thesing Retires Congratulations to Firefighter Greg Thesing, who retired after 32 years serving the residents of Green Twp. See story on page 29

Columbus Fire Honored at Award Luncheon One Columbus Fire battalion chief, one lieutenant and two firefighters were honored on October 15, 2021.

See story on page 34

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 22-27 & 30-31 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 28-29 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32

Eleven Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ Proud Member Of: Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.

Page 4, Fire News, February/March 2022

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Well Done, Responders!

With the recent fatal fires in the Tremont section of the Bronx and a major fire in Philadelphi’s Fairmount section, I feel compelled to share my thoughts with you about these terrible fires. As with all fires, the flames were extinguished, but not without severe fatal consequences. At the Bronx and Philadelphia fires, authorities reported that many children perished in these blazes. The loss of a child amplifies the sad feelings towards this job.

When I heard about the possible cause of why the fire spread, along with the thick acrid smoke, in my mind, I heard the voice of former reporter Frank Field saying, “Close the door, close the door!” Frank Field, who was a fire buff, made an excellent video on fire prevention called, “Plan to Get Out Alive.” I used to show this video every year to the students I taught in Lynbrook (NY) and followed up with a hands-on exercise demonstrating how to remain safe during a fire. I retired feeling proud of the job I did, and only hoped that my work would continue.

As I watched the news coverage of the Bronx fire, so many thoughts ran through my mind. My thoughts focused on the 200 heroic firefighters who worked feverishly to save as many lives as they could. Every responder who

worked this blaze is a hero in my eyes. Having served in the volunteer fire service for 29 years and being the son of a 32-year veteran on the FDNY, I know what it was probably like when our heroes returned to the firehouse.

One of the worst memories that any responder or combat veteran must endure is the loss of life, especially the life of a child. I can remember situations from years ago that changed the demeanor of responders who returned to their firehouses and homes, wanting to be left alone. My dad had several fatal fires in his career. When he returned home, my mom could immediately tell that something was wrong. I remember my dad sitting on the couch and staring into space. Sooner or later, he shared his horrific experience with my mom and later in life with me. The scares and scars of battle never seemed to go away.

Looking at the future, it is important to remember that when little things start to bother you for no apparent reason, there may be a serious reason why your personality has changed.

Today we call it Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition that develops in some people who have suffered or experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. It is natural to feel afraid

during and after a traumatic situation. Fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to help defend against danger or to avoid it. The FDNY and the volunteer fire-rescue service have experienced teams to help you deal with PTSD and other problems that develop in the life of responders. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your Counseling Service Unit and sit down to talk with one of your peers.

To all the heroes that responded to Bronx Box 3162 and Philadelphia’s Fairmount fire, stand tall and be proud of the job that you did.

You gave your all and performed well.

- Dennis

MVA Rollover-Entrapment on New Carlisle Pike

Crews worked an MVA with roll-over and entrapment on New Carlisle Pike by the Evans Cattle Company. The driver was extricated and transported to Miami Valley Hospital in serious condi-

tion. The New Carlisle Fire Department assisted in extricating the driver.

- Photo courtesy of Bethel Township FD

Page 6, Fire News, February/March 2022

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House Fire Extends Captain Ferrell feeds hose to firefighter O’Connor as he advances the nozzle inside a structure. Various handlines were stretched and the fire was contained with an interior attack. The fire was found to have extended into a void space created by a home renovation. No occupants were injured.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

Trailer Fire Captain Blankenship and Firefighter Rotar conduct overhaul after extinguishing a semi-truck fire in July 2021. Fire crews were dispatched to a report of a structure fire at a trailer leasing facility. Upon arrival, crews found a single semi-trailer on fire inside a maintenance garage. After a quick attack with two handlines, crews extinguished the fire, which was believed to have started in the brake system.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

Rear Deck Fire Extends into Home

Wintersville Fire-Rescue crews along with Stations 26, 59 and 67 operated at a working structure fire recently. The fire started on a rear deck and extended into the home. There were, fortunately, no injuries.

- Photo courtesy of Wintersville Fire-Rescue

Hyde Park Electrical Blaze Firefighters were dispatched to a house fire in the 3600 block of Edwards Road in Hyde Park, near Rookwood Pavilion. Engine 46 from Hyde Park Square arrived to find fire in the attic and roof of a single-family residence. Fire was quickly extinguished, but extensive overhaul was required. The cause was believed to be electrical in nature.

- Submitted by Matthew Flagler, District Chief

Page 8, Fire News, February/March 2022

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Looking Back December 2020 Firefighter Nader overlooks a fully involved barn fire while operating the pump of E171 on December 24, 2020. Crews arrived to one barn fully involved, and a second barn in flames further down the property. The fire was believed to be an arson. During defensive operations the barn structure collapsed. The fire was extinguished with no firefighter injuries.

- Submitted by Trent Lucas

Walnut Hills - 2021 Shortly after 0730 on April 27, 2021, Cincinnati Emergency Communications received a 911 call for a fire on William Howard Taft Road in Walnut Hills. Due to the size of the building and the location of the fire, a second alarm was requested which brought a total of 60 firefighters to the scene.

- Submitted by Matthew Flagler, District Chief

West Lafayette 2021

West Lafayette Fire Department on January 18, 2021, responded tp a call at for heavy smoke coming from the Old Thyme Country Market on County Road 16. Coshocton was also dispatched.

- Submitted by Jim McKeever

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 9

Rte. 3 Field & Woods Fire

Green-Perrysville fire crews worked a field/woods fire with the Loudonville Fire Department in the area of State Route 3. The winds were gusty, conditions were dry. No injuries were reported.

- Photos courtesy of Green-Perrysville Joint Fire District

Page 10, Fire News, February/March 2022

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Cover Story

Three Rivers Deals with 2-Alarm House Fire

The Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office received a call on January 10, 2022, at about 0550 for a kitchen fire with everyone out of the house. The Three Rivers Fire Department responded to the 3100 block of State Route 541, as did Coshocton and West Lafayette.

Upon arrival, units found the home fully involved and fire had already burnt through the roof. Coshocton used their deck gun to quickly get water on the fire, which had spread completely throughout the home; fire units went defensive. Several handlines were

pulled and firefighters surrounded the home. As progress was being made, a second alarm was requested for manpower, bringing Conesville, Walhonding Valley and Jackson Township. After mop up operations were completed, the home was declared a total loss with a probable cause being the woodburner. Also assisting were Coshocton County EMS, Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office, Coshocton County REACT, and the Salvation Army.

- Submitted by Jim McKeever

Page 12, Fire News, February/March 2022

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Wickliffe Blaze

Crews battled a structure fire recently in Wickliffe, during the early morning hours. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the

building was unoccupied at the time of the fire.

- Photos courtesy of Willoughby FD

Up Close & Personal

Firefighters from the Glendale Fire Department.

- Photo courtesy of Glendale FD

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 13

Lincoln Heights Vacant House Fire

Recently, Glendale Fire Department Engine 45 responded to Lincoln Heights for a report of a structure fire in a vacant house. Arriving as the first-due engine, the crew established a water supply and stretched hoses for fire attack and cleared the scene after about two hours.

- Photos courtesy of Glendale FD

Page 14, Fire News, February/March 2022

Coshocton Vacant Home Fire

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Three Rivers, Coshocton and Conesville responded to a vacant home with fire showing on the D side. Handlines were pulled and water was streamed into the structure through the roof vents to get to fire which had spread to the attic. A second alarm was requested for additional manpower, bringing West Lafayette, Walhonding, and Jackson Township. With the fresh manpower, overhaul operations in the front room of the home gave additional access to the attic area. Chainsaws were put to use on the D Side to open up the walls where the fire had spread.

With the fire contained, firefighters continued to hit a few hot spots. The house had been vacant and was scheduled to be demolished in February. Also assisting on scene was the Coshocton County EMS, Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office, Coshocton County REACT, and The Coshocton County Sheriff’s Office received a call on January the Salvation Army represented by Tom Dile with snacks and 17, 2022, at about 1330 for a possible house fire in the 1300 block of drinks for the firefighters.

South 6th Street. Three fire companies were paged out to the fire: - Submitted by Jim McKeever

Mutual Aid by Wintersville

Wintersville Fire-Rescue Ladder 8121 on a mutual aid structure fire in Mingo Junction recently.

- Photo courtesy of Wintersville FR

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 15

Brush Fire in Hamilton Twp. Recently, the Hamilton Township Fire Department 3 Unit responded for a grass fire operation. Through treacherous terrain, firefighters were able to gain access to the fire ground by clearing trees and brush. Grass Fighter 172 was used as the primary attack apparatus. An estimated 2,000 square feet was involved in the fire.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

Allen County Structure Fire Recently, in the early morning hours, American Township Fire C-shift was dispatched to the 1100 block of West Robb for a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews found smoke and active fire on the second story. Crews got a quick knock on the fire and were on scene for two hours. Mutual aid was provided by Lima, Shawnee, Bath, AEP and the American Red Cross.

- Photo courtesy of American Township FD

Page 16, Fire News, February/March 2022

RMA at I - 70 Rollover

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Bethel Township crews operated at a rollover MVA off Interstate 70 driver was trapped in the vehicle, but was removed safely and at the 41 milemarker recently. The vehicle lost control, went down refused transport as he had his seatbelt on and claimed no injuries. a ravine and rolled into a creek, approximately three-feet deep. The - Photos courtesy of Bethel Township FD

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Single Vehicle MVA

Recently, Portage Fire District firefighters responded to a singlevehicle crash on W. Portage River South Road. Initial information indicated it was a possible rollover, but this was found to be incorrect. The vehicle simply drove off the road into a ditch. Using boards with tread designed for just this purpose, firefighters assisted the driver from the car so he could be assessed by Mid County EMS. - Photo courtesy of Portage Fire District

Diesel Emulsification at Spill

North Locust Street (SR 19) between Water (SR 163) and Main Streets. was closed for about an hour recently, as Portage Fire crews neutralized a diesel fuel spill. Captain John Foust came across the spill and called it into Oak Harbor Dispatch. A quick investigation revealed a trail of diesel from a gas station on the north side of the village all the way to Portage River South Road.

The only place the diesel pooled was at this intersection as the vehicle waited at a red light. Portage firefighters use d a product called Emulsi-flash, which uses the principle of emulsification to break petroleum products down into a detergent type solution and greatly reduces the vapors. It has to be agitated with brooms and a hose stream to work best. From there, the spill can simply be washed away. Units responding were Captain 37, Engine 37 and Chief 37.

- Photo courtesy of Portage Fire District

Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 17

Page 20, Fire News, February/March 2022

The Future is Now

East Holmes Fire and EMS has recently added a drone as the newest tool to their resources that can be utilized in any search asnd rescue or other emergency operations. The DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone is equipped with cameras capable of providing live video feed to incident commanders on the ground including IR thermal imaging technology for night time operations. In compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required all the pilots and the unmanned aircraft to be licensed and registered with the FAA.

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All rules of operations are regulated under FAA Part 107, including designated airspace authorized to operate in. This asset could prove to be invaluable in assisting the dive team on water rescues, missing person searches, HazMat incidents or any other large scale incidents to where a rapid response with a bird’s eye view is needed (especially in night time operations with the thermal imaging capabilities).

- Photos courtesy of East Holmes Fire & EMS

Page 22, Fire News, February/March 2022

Structural Collapse Training

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Recently, the Eastside Tech Rescue Team conducted structural collapse training at the old YMCA building on Euclid Avenue. It was a great opportunity for the team to work on a commercial building. Special thanks to the Sommers Development Group for providing access to the building for this training.

- Photos courtesy of Willoughby FD

Training at Elyria

Recently, the Elyria Township Fire Department joined the Amherst Fire Department, Sheffield Township Fire Department, City of Vermilion Fire Department and South Amherst Fire Department for live fire training at the ETFD Murray Ridge Road Training Facility.

- Photos courtesy of Amherst FD

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Acquired Structure Training

Recently, crews from Madeira and Indian Hill, along with Terrace Park, took advantage of a large acquired structure for training.

Crews worked on search and rescue tactics, as well as hose advancement throughout the structure. A good night for some good training!

- Photos courtesy of Madeira & Indian Hill Joint Fire District

Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 23

Page 24, Fire News, February/March 2022

Green-Perryville HazMat Refresher

Green-Perrysville members completed their annual HazMat refresher recently, on Anhydrous Ammonia (the foundation for all

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nitrogen fertilizers) emergencies.

- Photos courtesy of Green-Perrysville Joint Fire District

Page 26, Fire News, February/March 2022

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Wintersville, Hopedale Train

Wintersville and Hopedale fire department crews take advantage of Wintersville Fire-Rescue Training Facility. some nice mid-winter weather by training on ropes at the - Photos courtesy of Wintersville FR

Gorham-Fayette Extrication Training

Gorham-Fayette Fire 1 and EMT classes taking part in some extrication training recently.

- Photos courtesy of Gorham-Fayette FD

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 27

Hinckley and Santa

Crews from Hinckley Fire Rescue helped escort Santa Claus and friends around the community during this past holiday season.

- Photos courtesy of Hinckley FR

Page 28, Fire News, February/March 2022

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FDIC ASK THE EXPERT

By Eric Schlett, Senior Vice President, Fire & Rescue

What can we expect from FDIC in 2022?

FDIC International is North America’s largest training and sourcing destination for firefighters and will take place April 25-30, 2022, in Indianapolis, Indiana. FDIC International offers thousands of Fire and Rescue professionals from around the world, quality world-class instructors, classrooms, workshops, HOT evolutions and the most innovative products and services available to the industry displayed by over 800 exhibiting companies. The focus for this year’s FDIC event will be bringing together the industry in-person, for a safe and productive training experience while maintaining the celebration of comradery.

FDIC International will present over 300 tried and true classes alongside updated content on important topics and new areas of interest from the world’s most renowned instructors. The week of training begins with two days of hands-on training (HOT) evolutions and preconference workshops followed by three days of classroom sessions, covering the latest technology and techniques in the fire service.

Back again is Women in Fire for their one-day conference happening on Monday, April 25.

The learning continues on the exhibit floor at FDIC International! Exhibitions span the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium and the Outdoor Exhibits and Demo Area and give attendees access to explore hundreds of products and services while creating lasting and lucrative business relationships with leading manufacturers.

Our strong heritage and commitment to tradition is epitomized in the 2022 Opening Ceremonies. Every year, thousands of attendees pay tribute to all past, present and future firefighters. Attending this event provides a comprehensive understanding of the gratitude and respect for all those who place their lives on the line to save others. In recognition of outstanding bravery and selflessness, one firefighter will receive the annual Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award.

The FDIC International experience is more than your traditional trade show it’s about the learning and sharing with your peers formally and informally through hallway conversations, developing life-long friendships, and recharging your passion for the industry.

We also recently announced the rebrand and co-location of our event JEMS Conference and Expo (JEMS Con), with FDIC International.

JEMS Con, which was previously known as EMS Today, will offer a forward-thinking approach focused on the future of EMS, operational leadership, training and peer-to-peer sharing and networking. JEMS Con will bring together paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), medical directors and executives from all EMS providers, including state and private agencies, third service and fire.

Over the past year, we’ve done extensive outreach and had critical conversations with EMS providers, exhibitors, medical directors, and professionals. We’ve taken their insights and suggestions to start to lay the foundation of JEMS Con in 2022. With over 5,000 attendees that identify EMS as their primary job function already attending FDIC, we feel we can create considerable value and efficiencies for the industry in a co-located event. We are committed to welcoming all EMS providers, giving them a dedicated event to comfortably come together to learn, share, and network with peers. We will continue to build partnerships with the EMS community to help shape this event as we plan beyond 2022. We plan to expand the Metro EMS group, add more hands-on training evolutions, enhance the sponsorship experience, and include additional networking opportunities.

We are excited about the opportunities this co-location will offer

the Fire and EMS communities!

What is your MATCH Program, and how can it help visitors?

Our MATCH! program is a free service at FDIC International that was designed to help attendees and exhibitors make the most efficient use of their time by pre-scheduling one-to-one 20-minute meetings to discuss sourcing needs.

MATCH! is easy, efficient and complimentary. Attendees who are actively sourcing products and services in the next 12-24 months will select categories they are interested in within our matchmaking tool.

From there, exhibitor suggestions will be generated, and the attendees can request 20-minute meetings that will take place in our MATCH! VIP lounge eliminating any exhibit hall distractions.

Anyone interested in participating should visit our website, or contact Megan McMahon at megan.mcmahon@clarionevents.com.

In terms of education, what does FDIC offer?

FDIC International offers more ways than ever to learn the latest tactics, techniques, and technologies designed to take your knowledge to the next level. In 2022 FDIC International will present over 300 tried and true classes offering updated content on important topics and new areas of interest from the world’s most renowned instructors. Topics at this year’s conference include rapid intervention, leadership and management, strategy and tactics, emerging technologies, extraction and much more.

The week of training begins with two days of hands-on training (HOT) evolutions and preconference workshops followed by three days of classroom sessions, covering the latest technology and techniques in the fire service.

The Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions at FDIC International are something you must experience to fully appreciate. Attendees can choose between 4- and 8-hour Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions which cover the latest technology and techniques in the fire service and are instructed by industry icons. No other event in the world contains the vast amount of topics and locations presented at FDIC International.

The FDIC International pre-conference workshops feature both 4- and 8-hour formats and provide attendees with an in-depth look at specific topics covering new areas of interest within the fire service as well as traditional training topics. Attendees can choose from a variety of topics and should be prepared to walk away with new insights, ideas and approaches.

Perhaps one of the most distinguishing aspects of FDIC International’s classroom sessions is the world-renowned instructors.

While you’ll certainly find the largest gathering of industry icons at FDIC International, you’ll also find new instructors from around the world presenting groundbreaking topics. Some of this year’s sessions include Merging EMS into a Fire Department Culture, Thriving in the Fire Service, Swift Water Rescue Rules of Engagement, Down and Dirty Fireground Decision Making, Best Practices for Proficiency-Based Training, The Successful Short-Staffed Engine, and more. Attendees can move between classroom sessions and topics, customizing their FDIC International experience and gaining the most from their time at the event. continued on next page

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 29

Green Township’s Greg Thesing Retires

Congratulations to Firefighter Greg Thesing, who worked his final shift before retirement, after 32 years serving the community and residents of Green Township. Greg was a part-time employee since 1989, making him one of the longest tenured “part-timers” to ever work for the department.

In his remarks, Fire and EMS Chief Scott Souders recalled the early years of Greg’s career when he made a name for himself as a very skilled driver of our emergency vehicles. That remained with him, and crews always knew they were in good hands with him as wheelman.

Part-time does not indicate an occasional shift here and there. Thesing worked a lot of hours and everyone knew it was going to be a good day when you worked with him (even when runs turned serious).

A reception was held at Station 54 during Greg’s last shift, during which he was presented with a challenge coin by Township Administrator Frank Birkenhauer, and a plaque by Fire and EMS Chief Scott Souders.

Greg is now looking forward to playing some golf and traveling a little. We think he deserves it.

Safe travels and low scores Greg!

- Photos courtesy of Green Township Fire & EMS

continued from previous page Returning in 2022 is Women in Fire for their one-day conference which will take place on Monday, April 25. This conference will begin with an opening ceremony which will take a look at what we know about women’s health in the fire service, including recent and emerging topics such as reproductive health, behavioral health, and modifiable risk factors among this population.

Following that will be a line-up of educational classes that provide training, support and advocacy for women in the fire service.

Plus, FDIC International attendees will have access to additional education sessions being offered as a part of JEMS Conference & Expo since the two events will be co-locating this year.

Additional details are coming soon.

FDIC International is sure to be your one-stop shop for all the education, training and hands-on experience you need to ensure the safety of your communities. Complete conference program details for FDIC International can be found on our website.

How can organizations get involved with the event this year?

Complete information on the FDIC International schedule of events and conference program, as well as how to register and guidance on selecting the registration package that is right for you can be found on our website www.fdic.com. For general show inquiry or assistance, feel free to reach out to our team at FDIC@clarionevents.com and someone will get back to you.

Companies who are interested in securing booth space or discussing sponsorship opportunities should contact our sales team at sales@fdic.com.

Everyone is eager to return to live events.

Has navigating the global pandemic been difficult?

The pandemic hasn’t stopped firefighters and EMTs from having to serve their communities and therefore the need for training hasn’t

stopped! FDIC International is excited to welcome the fire & rescue industry back to Indianapolis at its regularly scheduled time. The focus for this year’s event will be bringing together the industry in-person, for a safe and productive training experience while maintaining the celebration of comradery. The need for connecting with peers became even more important over the past year and a half when Covid-19 created supply chain issues and shortages, as well as fewer in-person training opportunities. At this year’s FDIC International, the industry can expect to find our traditional robust education and training program, an expansive exhibit hall with leading manufacturers, new technology and networking events designed to celebrate coming together and thanking our first responders for keeping our communities safe.

What hands-on training is available and how can this benefit visitors?

The Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) Evolutions at FDIC International are something you must experience to fully appreciate! Firefighters that attend the Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) Evolutions not only improve their skills, but the information they take back to their departments have an exponential impact on the overall safety of their communities.

Attendees can choose between four- and eight-hour Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions which are all instructed by key players within the industry. This year’s topics cover the latest technology and techniques in the fire service, and include advanced vehicle extrication, active shooter response, open water rescue and drowning resuscitation, heavy vehicle extrication, and more. For complete details, please visit our website.

Page 30, Fire News, February/March 2022

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Extrication Training

Fire Training Officer Lieutenant Britton supervises various members as they conduct auto extrication training removing a roof of a vehicle. Vehicles were provided by a local towing company for the training.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

Live Fire Training in Obetz Lieutenant Britton and Firefighter Lucas observe fire conditions with a Thermal Imaging Camera during a live fire evolution. The Hamilton Township Fire Department was granted several structures scheduled for demolition for a new Sheetz location in Obetz, Ohio. The department held training events with surrounding departments including live fire evolutions.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 31

Elyria Trains on Line Deployment

During some down time recently, Elyria Township firefighters visited several vacant structures within their jurisdiction to train on deploying attack lines, pump operations and deploying ground ladders for rescue operations.

- Photos courtesy of Elyria Township FD

Page 32, Fire News, February/March 2022

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EMS Standby at Zucchini Fest

Lieutenant Adkins observes a crowd while on EMS standby during a concert at Fortress Obetz in September 2021. The concert was a

part of the finale to the annual Zucchini Festival in Obetz, which attracts tens of thousands of people. - Submitted by Trenton Lucas

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Fire News, February/March 2022, Page 33

In Honor of 9/11

In remembrance of September 11, 2001, various members from Hamilton Township Fire Department completed the Columbus Stair Climb at Fortress Obetz. Members climbed the 110 stories as

a tribute to those firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11.

- Submitted by Trenton Lucas

PATCHES

Columbus Police and Fire Pipes and Drums

Terrace Park Fire Department

City of Fostoria Division of Fire

Page 34, Fire News, February/March 2022

Columbus Fire Honored at Award Luncheon

One Columbus Fire battalion chief, one lieutenant and two firefighters were honored on October 15, 2021 by the Benjamin Franklin Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Fire Chief Jeffrey Happ announced. Fire Battalion Chief Sandra Loeper, Lieutenant George Wallace and Firefighters James Janoski and William Longenette were presented with medals and certificates during the organization’s annual noon luncheon meeting at TAT Ristorante de Famiglia in Columbus, Ohio.

The EMS Medal will be presented to Firefighters James Janoski and William Longenette who have shown dedication to the position in performing their duty with Battalion Chief Sandra Loeper, who will be presented the Heroism Award for actions taken on December 5, 2020, when she saved a woman from falling off a third-floor balcony.

Firefighter Janoski (aka, Shaggy), a 27-year veteran of the department, has been a paramedic for over 20 years. He spent the majority of his career at Station 18 and just recently transferred to Station 30.

Firefighter Longenette, a 23-year veteran of the department, has been a paramedic for over 18 years. Bill has been assigned to Station 1 for his entire career.

After all of these years of serving the citizens of Columbus while assigned to extremely busy medic vehicles, they both have stepped up once again as the pioneering members of Stroke 1, 1-Unit, to which they ride every day. Stroke 1, a partnership with the Central Ohio Hospital

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Systems, provides state of the art on-scene stroke care to Central Ohio residents. Both members also teach stroke care within the division and other Central Ohio fire departments.

Battalion Chief Sandra Loeper was awarded the Heroism Award.

While responding to a report of fire with people trapped, Chief Loeper observed an occupant on the balcony rail in obvious distress. Battalion Chief Loeper climbed to the balcony to try and calm the victim down.

In her distress, the victim crawled over the balcony rail and fell head first. Chief Loeper was able to grab the victim by the ankle, holding her dangling there until help arrived to stabilize the victim. She was safely removed down a stairwell where she was treated by medics.

Fire Lieutenant George Wallace was presented with the Life Saving Commendation. Lieutenant Wallace is in good standing and has spent many hours both on duty and off to supporting our members and members of other Central Ohio departments, both police and fire, in their time of need. His commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of our members as part of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team has saved countless careers and families as they struggle with acute and chronic stress related to the job. Lieutenant Wallace helps to get members help on off days as well as duty days seven days a week.

Lieutenant Wallace exemplifies the characteristics and work ethic that this award is wanting to recognize.

- Submitted by Rebecca Diehm