Fire News West Virginia 3-22 edition

WEST VIRGINIA/MARYLAND Serving

VOLUME 2, NO. 1

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1973

MARCH/APRIL 2022

Story on page 14.

- Fire News photo courtesy of Rand VFD

Looking Back WV Fire History Please see page 8.

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Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 3

In this issue...

Storage Structure Demolished in Nitro The blaze closes down Route 25 for 90 minutes.

A Service for West Virginia/Maryland Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973

See story on page 9

Combine Fire Snuffed Lubeck volunteer douse a fully involved combine.

See story on page 11

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

Long Stretch at Pinch Blaze Kanawha, Pinch and Malden handle a garage and house well involved on arrival.

BARBARA CONNOLLY: Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ: Editorial Assistant Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES

See story on page 18 COPYRIGHT 2022, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Wallace Pike Fire Draws a Crowd Seven companies respond to a house fire.

See story on page 19

Nutter Fork Assists Lost Creek Crews handle a tractor-trailer fire on Interstate 79.

See story on page 25

Ice Rescue Training Nitro and Institute crews train at night, under the ice.

See story on page 30

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22 Industry News

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 26-27

Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29

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

Twelve 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, March/April 2022

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Winter Blues are Almost Gone!

Before speaking about the weather, I’d like to take a moment to welcome our new readers from Maryland, and thank our West Virginia readers, who are approaching their first full year with Fire News, for their support. Fire News was started in 1973 serving the firefighter and EMS community, and that remains our mission today. The community of Fire News now covers Long Island (NY), New York State, New England, New Jersey (and Wildwood, NJ), Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Ohio.

So welcome aboard!

An aside regarding winter: I would like to thank my company for riding past my home after a recent storm and taking the time to dig me out. Digging out the senior members of the Terryville (NY) Fire Department has been a tradition that is still carried out today. Thank you, Terryville Company 2, for your help!

I would like to reflect on the recent rash of Line of Duty Deaths in our nation’s police departments. As I watched the live coverage at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC of Detective Wilbert Mora’s and Detective Jason Rivera’s

funerals, I am not ashamed to say that there were times during the service that I was teary eyed. I could feel the passion of His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan as he comforted the families of our fallen police officers. I was genuinely moved by the outpouring of love from the thousands of police officers and other responders, who stood in the cold and snowy weather to show strength and offer comfort to the families of New York City’s fallen police officers. As I heard the voice of Detective Jason Rivera’s wife eulogize her husband. I became teary eyed. She brought back the importance of always hugging your family when you go to work as a first responder. You never know if you will return to hug them back. Like all responders, we are present to help the members of our communities. I just wish that communities would realize this and encourage change to respect those individuals who are trying to make a difference.

According to the ODMP - Officers Down Memorial Page, nationally, there have been 64 LODDs in 2022 [as of March 4]. The causes of police officer deaths are varied. Visit

www.odmp.org to learn more about police Line of Duty deaths.

Spring is not far away. It is a time we see our lawns return to their lush green color and we see our flowers start to emerge from the cold winter. In the fire service, it is a time of the year that we get out to resume our hands-on training at our fire academies and training facilities. I am looking forward to this spring.

Take the time to renew your commitment to training so that you are the best that you can be when you go into battle. I leave you with a quote I once heard, “Think positively and positive things will happen.”

- Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, March/April 2022

Shooting Response in Frederick County

In the early morning of October 9, 2021, Frederick County (MD) Division of Fire and Rescue Services units were dispatched to a call for a shooting in the 6700 block of Killdeer Court in Frederick.

Upon arrival they located multiple patients with gunshot wounds, two of which were life threatening. Due to an extended ETA of the MSP Trooper by air, the crew transported both critical patients via ground to Meritus Medical Center. The quick and decisive actions of these crews led to both patients surviving their injuries. They were honored with a well-deserved unit citation and challenge coin.

- Submitted by Sarah Campbell

Quick Knockdown on Springfield Drive

On January 28, 2022, at 2204, Kanawha County (WV) Stations 3 (Malden), Station 4 (Rand), Station 5 (Belle) were alerted for a house fire on Springfield Drive in Area 3. Engine 32 arrived to heavy smoke coming from the second floor. Crews deployed a handline and went to work to extinguish the fire. A quick knockdown by interior crews contained the fire to the kitchen area of the house with smoke and heat damage throughout. The crew rescued a dog that was on a leash just outside the back door in the kitchen. The occupants of the house were at home at the time of the blaze and were able to escape before the fire department’s arrival.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

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Chestertown Restaurant Fire

On January 12, 2022, crews responded to a two-alarm structure fire at the Riverfront Grill, on Cannon Street, in Chestertown (Kent County, MD). Approximately 60 firefighters battled the blaze for two hours before it was placed under control.

- Submitted by the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal

Fast Stop on Zerkle Street

St. Albans and Nitro fire departments (WV), along with other automatic aid companies responded for a structure fire on Zerkle Street. Quick action by the engine company contained the blaze to a small area in the attic space.

- Photo courtesy of Nitro FD

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Clear Creek Structure Fire

On January 14, 2022, around 0830, units were dispatched to Lynfield Place in Clear Creek (WV) for structure fire. Lester, Trap Hill, Whitesville, Pax and JanCare Ambulance also responded.

- Fire News photo submitted by Shane Wriston

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 7

Long Stretch at Kanawha Apartment House Fire

At 2132 on February 20, 2022, Kanawha County’s (WV) Station 5 (Belle), Station 6 (Cedar Grove) and Malden Station 3 were alerted for an apartment fire on Nelson Court off Witcher Creek Road.

Belle Engine 53 arrived to heavy fire showing from the A side of a single-story three-unit apartment complex. Cedar Grove Engine 62 reverse laid 600 feet of five-inch supply line to a hydrant. A quick knock down contained the fire to two of the three units in the complex, There were no injuries reported. Units responding were Belle Engine 53, Truck 55, Cedar Grove Engine 62,63 Medic 64, Malden Engine 32, Squad 3 and Utility 3 Crews cleared the scene around 2335.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Page 8, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Looking Back Training Burns 1998 (From left): Tommy Meeks KCEAA Supervisor 511, Kim Barnette and Kevin (‘Wrap’) Bess from Cedar Grove VFD and Firefighter Bradley Scott of Malden VFD resting after some training burns.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Nitro 1999 Residential structure fire on Main Avenue in Nitro.

- Photo courtesy of Nitro FD

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Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 9

Storage Structure Demolished

Recently, the Nitro (WV) Fire Department, responded to a structure fire at an abandoned storage unit on 1st Avenue South. NFD was assisted in handling the blaze by units from St. Albans, Institute, Teays Valley, Poca, Westside and Tornado. The Sunday afternoon

blaze closed Route 25 for over 90 minutes. There were no injuries and the facility was demolished after the fire was extinguished.

- Photos courtesy of Nitro FD & U.A. Visions

Bel Air Fire Destroys Trailer Home

Jarrettsville Dwelling Fire

On January 4, 2022, the Bel Air (MD) Volunteer Fire Company responded to Cedar Lane for a dwelling fire. Crews arrived to find a single-story mobile home with flames showing. Crews were able to bring the fire under control within 20 minutes. Two occupants were evaluated by EMS for minor burns to their feet; however, they refused transport. The two occupants (mother and daughter) discovered the fire on the front porch and escaped out the front door. The fire quickly spread to the remainder of the home. Two cats were able to escape, and one is presumed to have perished. The home was a complete loss. Harford County Disaster Assistance assisted the family.

- Photo courtesy of The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal & Bel Air VFC/Marc Ensor

On January 12, 2022, the Jarrettsville (MD) Volunteer Fire Company, along with area mutual-aid, battled a dwelling fire on Grimm Road in Jarrettsville. The blaze was discovered by a neighbor who quickly called 911 to report the fire. It took crews about an hour to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported.

The home was a complete loss.

- Submitted by Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo courtesy of Jarrettsville VFC

Page 10, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Fatality at Salisbury Car into Building

On December 21, 2021, around 2330, the Salisbury (MD) Fire Department, along with Parsonsburg and Pittsville, were alerted for a building fire in a strip mall. Crews arrived to find a pickup truck that had crashed into and through a building. Crews worked for several hours to reach and free the driver who had died from his injuries. Truck crews laddered the building to check for any fire

extension in the roof area. Salisbury City Police and Maryland State Police investigated the accident and found out that the driver had a medical issue causing him to lose control of his truck and crash into the building. The building was a total loss.

- Submitted by Wayne Barrall

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Single-Vehicle MVA

On January 16, 2022, Kanawha (WV) County Station 3 was dispatched at 0044 for an MVA with a vehicle in the creek and a possible entrapment. Squad 3, which was en route to a call to assist KCEAA Medic 155 in the Blount area of Campbells Creek with loading a patient, turned around and responded to the MVA. Squad 3 arrived to find a single vehicle on its side in the creek with the occupant trapped under the vehicle. With the assistance of Hutch’s Wrecker Service the vehicle was lifted off the occupant and removed. Units that responded were Squad 3, Utility Rescue Engine 33, KCEAA Medic 159 and 179, Supervisor 511, KCSD 56 and 85 and the WV Medical Examiner Unit.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Combine Fire Snuffed

On December 24, 2021, at 1548, the Lubeck (WV) Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to assist Pond Creek on a combine fire. Units were advised the combine was in a field. Rescue 25 and Engine 23 responded from Lubeck and Engine 72 responded from Station 70. On arrival, the combine was fully involved. Luckily, the field was in good enough condition that Rescue 25 and Engine 72 could get to it. Engine 23 stood by near the scene in the event more water was needed. Fire was extinguished with one handline. No injuries were reported . - Photo courtesy of Lubeck VFD

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 11

Page 12, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Rand Structure Fire

Nice Stop in Kanawha County

Rand (WV) Fire Department Station 4 and Station 3 were dispatched to a house fire on Elaine Drive recently. Rand Engine 41 with two, and a Malden member in a POV arrived in five minutes and found heavy smoke coming from the house. The three made an aggressive interior attack using water carried on Engine 41.

Additional personnel were requested from Malden Station 3 and Belle Station 5. With the additional personnel they were able to extinguish the remaining fire and complete overhaul within 90 minutes. Two dogs died in the fire. The Red Cross was called to assist the family.

- Photo courtesy of Rand VFD

On January 29, 2022, Kanawha (WV) Counties Station 16 (Loudendale), Station 18 (Davis Creek) and Station 3 (Malden) were dispatched to Kanawha State Forest Drive in Area 16 for a house fire. Engine 162 arrived to find a single-story large ranch with heavy fire coming from the garage area. With no hydrants in the area Station 4 (Rand) and Station 19 (Jefferson) were added to the call. Quick work by crews contained the fire to the living room and garage area. Six people were home at the time and were outside when the fire departments arrived. There were no injuries.

- Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

Good Stop in Salisbury

On November 22, 2021, all three Salisbury (MD) Fire Departments, along with Hebron, Delmar and Fruitland, were alerted for a house fire on Tuscola Avenue in Salisbury. Fire crews arrived to find fire

blowing out the top-floor windows of the structure. Fire crews made a strong attack and were able to bring the fire under control in about 45 minutes.

- Submitted by Wayne Barrall

Page 14, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Cover Story

3 Hurt in Car-into-House MVA - Fire News photo by AC Bradley ‘Sparky’ Scott, Malden VFD

The Rand (WV) Volunteer Fire Department County Station 4, was dispatched to an MVA with a car into a house and entrapment in the 4900 block of Raven Drive at 1327, on January 19, 2022. Due to the nature of the call, and anticipating the need for additional personnel and equipment, Malden Station 3 was requested. Arriving units found three injured victims. One in the front room beside a red SUV, one inside and one pinned under the left front chassis. One victim was transported in short order, one was removed from inside

the vehicle within 45 minutes, and the final victim took almost two hours to extricate due to the weakened structure, which impeded normal rescue techniques. Team work at its finest included Rand Station 4, Malden Station 3, multiple units from Kanawha County Ambulance, Sheriff’s Department, Kanawha County Emergency Management, Hutches Wrecker Service, Kanawha County 911, and neighbors who assisted dealing with family members who came on scene.

- Bottom photos courtesy of Rand VFD

Page 18, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Long Stretch at Pinch House Fire

At 2203 on February 5, 2022, Kanawha (WV) County Station 2 (Pinch) and Station 3 (Malden) were alerted for a structure fire on Timbercrest Drive in the Rutledge area of Pinch. Pinch Engine 23 was first to arrive to find a two-story house with an attached garage well involved. Malden Engine 32 laid in 1100 feet of four-inch from a hydrant at Rutledge Road. Pinch Squad 2, while en route, request-

ed Kanawha County Station 27 WVANG for assistance. Quick work by the crews on scene contained the fire to the garage and living room area of the house. The occupants were home at the time of the fire and noticed smoke coming from the garage area. There were no injuries reported and units cleared the scene at 0105.

- Photo courtesy of Logan Steamburg / KCEAA Medic 173

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New Chauffeur

“Gracie” sits behind the wheel of the Mack, awaiting the next run at the Rand (WV) Volunteer Fire Department.

- Photo courtesy of Rand VFD

Wallace Pike Fire Draws a Crowd

On January 5, 2022, at 2055, the Wallace (WV) Volunteer Fire Department was alerted for a structure fire on Wallace Pike.

Engine 141 arrived to a heavily involved structure. The Wallace crew pulled an attack line and began to extinguish the fire. Mutual aid arrived and more attack lines were used to try to extinguish the blaze. Mutual aid came from Lumberport, Folsom, Shinnston, Spelter, and Squad 11, and Harrison Co. EMS. There was a rekindle at 0421 in which Lumberport assisted. The Wallace VFD would like to thank all of the mutual aid companies for responding and coming to assist.

- Photo courtesy of Wallace FD

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 19

Kimtek

Page 20, Fire News, March/April 2022

Indian Head Snuffs House Fire

On January 4, 2022, the Indian Head (MD) Volunteer Fire Department responded to Zenobia Place for a working house fire.

Approximately 40 firefighters battled the blaze for about an hour before it was placed under control. The occupant was alerted to the fire by smoke detectors and escaped without injury. The fire was determined to be accidental, caused by a failure of the chimney. The Red Cross was assisting the displaced residents.

- Submitted by the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal

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Man Burned in Denton Blaze

On January 24, 2022, the Greensboro (MD) Volunteer Fire Company responded to a house fire on Knife Box Road, in Denton.

A 51-year-old male sustained second- and third-degree burns to his face, arms and hands. The victim was transported to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center via Trooper 6.

- Submitted by The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo courtesy of Greensboro VFC

Deer Park Structure Fire

On January 10, 2022, the Deer Park (MD) Volunteer Fire Department responded to O’Brien Road for a structure fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the blaze was placed under investigation.

- Submitted by The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo courtesy of the Deer Park VFD

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Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 21

Two Barn Burn in Keymar

On January 17, 2022, the Taneytown (MD) Volunteer Fire high winds the fire spread very quickly to the second barn. Fire Department along, with mutual aid, were called for two barn fires crews were able to contain the fire to the two barns. The cause of the on 7300 block of Middleburg Road, in Keymar. Crews were met blaze remains under investigation. - Submitted by the Office of the with two barns approximately 65- by 50-feet well involved. Due to Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo by Dylan Slagle

Route 50 MVA

Shortly after 1600 on December 17, 2021, the Hebron (MD) Volunteer Fire Department along with the Salisbury Fire Department were dispatched to an MVA with rescue on Route 50 eastbound just past White Lowe Road, west of Salisbury. Rescue crews arrived to find a two-vehicle collision in which both both vehicles overturned several times with one coming to rest on Stanton Avenue. One subject was trapped in a car and crews used

hydraulic tools to remove the driver’s side door and free the patient.

Several occupants of the one vehicle were ejected during the rollover. One patient was flown via Maryland State Trooper 4 to a local trauma center. Ambulance crews from Delmar and Mardela assisted with patient care. Route 50 eastbound was shut down for a long period of time.

- Submitted by Wayne Barrall

Page 22, Fire News, March/April 2022

Church Fire in Institute

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Patches - WV

Manchester Fire Department

On January 17, 2022, at 0010, Institute (WV) Fire-Rescue crews responded to a fire at the Refuge Gospel Tabernacle Church on Bunche Avenue, in Institute. Tyler Mt. and Westside fire departments were mutual-aided to the scene.

- Photo courtesy of Institute FR

Parkersburg Fire Department

Shepherdstown Fire Department

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Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 23

Page 24, Fire News, March/April 2022

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Total Loss in Norrisville

On January 27, 2022, a passerby called 911 to report a building fire on Norrisville Road, in White Hall (MD), bringing the Norrisville Volunteer Fire Company, along with area mutual aid, to the scene.

Approximately 50 firefighters battled the blaze for about 40 minutes before the fire was declared under control. The owner was not home. The building eventually collapsed and both the building and all contents were a complete loss.

- Submitted by Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo courtesy of Roy Miller

House Fire on Peggy Neck Road

In the early hours of January 22, 2022, the Princess Anne (MD) Volunteer Fire Department responded to Peggy Neck Road for a dwelling fire. Firefighters brought the blaze under control in less than an hour. One adult male was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Submitted by the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal

Edgewood House Fire

On December 19, 2021, the Joppa Magnolia (MD) Volunteer Fire Company was called to a dwelling fire on Chipper Drive in Edgewood. Units arrived to find a single-story mobile home well involved. The fire was discovered by a neighbor. No occupants were

home at the time of the fire’s discovery. It took crews about 15 minutes to bring the fire under control.

- Submitted by Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal; photo courtesy of Joppa-Magnolia VFC

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Nutter Fort Works Truck Fire

On January 9, 2022, Nutter Fort (WV) Fire Department Tanker 7 and Engine 71 were added to the assignment for a working tractortrailer fire on Interstate 79 northbound at the 110 milemarker in Lost Creek to assist Lost Creek. Jane Lew and Stonewood VFDs were also alerted to assist. Tanker 7 and Engine 71 responded with five personnel in minutes. Engine 32 arrived on scene to find a heavily involved tractor trailer hauling tires, off the roadway and shut down I -79 at the Lost Creek exit. Crews placed a 1-3/4 inch handline in service. Engines 71 and 123 placed an additional handline from each apparatus in service. Tankers 3 and 7, and Lewis 29 supplied units with water. Multiple gallons of foam were also used. WVDOH brought heavy equipment to assist in fully extinguishing the tires. Nicholson’s Towing and Enviroclean assisted in removing the debris and the vehicle’s remains.

- Photo courtesy of Nutter Fort FR

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 25

Rand Refurbs Engine 43

Members of the Rand Volunteer Fire Department placed Engine 43 back in service right after Christmas 2021. The 1993 Pierce was given a minor refurb, including installation of a new 750-gallon poly tank. Each truck in the fleet receives a minor refurb every four years as needed to extend its useful life.

- Photo courtesy of Rand VFD

Page 26, Fire News, March/April 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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Grain Dust Explosion

On October 11, 2021, the Princess Anne (MD) Fire Company was alerted for a grain silo collapse at the Mountaire Farms Grain Mill on Revels Neck Road, south of Princess Anne. Fire crews from Salisbury, Marion, Crisfield and Pocomoke assisted. Crews arrived to find a large silo that experienced a grain dust explosion causing most of the cement silo to collapse. Fortunately, no injuries occurred to the workers on scene.

- Submitted by Wayne Barrall

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

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 27

2 Displaced by Libertytown Blaze

On January 28, 2022, Frederick (MD) County Division of Fire and Rescue responded to a house fire in the 12000 block of North Street in Libertytown. Forty-five firefighters from Frederick and Carroll counties battled the blaze. Two adults were displaced by the fire and there were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported.

- Submitted by Sarah Cambell

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 28, Fire News, March/April 2022

FireNews.com

Coal River Road Fire On January 14, 2022, around 0600, units were dispatched to the 4900 block of Coal River Road in Arnett (WV) to assist Coal River with a structure fire. Trap, Hill, Lester, Whitesville and Jancare Ambulance also responded to the scene. - Submitted by Shane Wriston

FireNews.com

Pittsville MVA

Companies from both Delaware and Maryland responded to this MVA involving a car and tractor trailer, in Pittsville, on February 3, 2022.

- Submitted by Wayne Barrall

Fire News, March/April 2022, Page 29

Page 30, Fire News, March/April 2022

FireNews.com

Nutter Fork Truck 7 Goes in Service On February 19, 2022, Nutter Fort (WV) Truck 7 was officially placed in service. This project took countless hours by far too many individuals to mention. Although a few minor items are still on back order due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this apparatus stands ready as a multi-function state of the art piece of equipment for firefighting, vehicle extrication, rope rescue, and swift water rescue.

- Photos courtesy of Nutter Fort FD

Nitro, Institute Ice Rescue Drill

Members of the Nitro and Institute (WV) fire departments drilled on ice water rescue techniques recently at Ridenour Lake.

- Photos courtesy of Nitro FD