By COLE KLEINWOLTERINK
As temperatures drop and ice forms over water, the season for ice rescue begins. These operations are inherently dangerous, and one of the greatest hazards to both civilians and firefighters is the unpredictability of ice strength and stability. Ice rescues are dynamic and require fire departments to remain adaptable and prepared for rapid decisionmaking.
If you’ve trained in ice rescue, you’re likely familiar with a rescue progression along the lines of: Talk-Reach-Throw-Go. The first three steps involve shore-based techniques where rescuers remain on land while assisting the victim, minimizing risk. However, when progressing to the “Go” phase, rescuers must leave the shore and engage directly with the victim,
increasing the level of risk. While fire departments should follow this sequence when possible, ice rescues are highly time-sensitive. If the victim is clinging to the ice edge, appears incoherent, or is unresponsive to instructions, hypothermia may have already impaired their ability to assist in their rescue. In such cases, the Go Method should be initiated immediately to maximize the chances of a successful outcome. In this article, we’ll examine a method specifically suited for rescuing victims who are clinging to the edge of the ice and unable to participate in their rescue.
Because it is the equipment I am familiar with, this article focuses on the use of the MARSARS Cold Water Rescue Sling to efficiently and effectively extract a victim hanging onto the edge of the ice. Please understand
this is not an endorsement or sales pitch for the product, as I have no affiliation with the company. With that said, let’s begin by looking at the specs of the MARSARS Cold Water Rescue Sling. This rescue flotation device is specially designed for cold water rescue. It features polyethylene foam for buoyancy, measures 33-inches in length, and has a 6,600-poundrated strap with a freeze-free, non-locking carabiner attached. It also includes adult and child sizing markers and a non-cinching Velcro strap for secure attachment.
The ice rescue rope bags that I am familiar with are equipped with 200 feet of rope and two large carabiners. The first carabiner is attached to the working end of the rope using a figureeight knot on a bight, while the second is placed roughly 6 feet
back using an inline figure-eight knot. When preparing for a rescue, the carabiner at the end of the rope is secured to the rescuer’s Mustang Ice Commander Rescue Suit, and the carabiner 6 feet back is attached to the rescue sling. The rescue sling is then carried by the rescuer over their head and dominant arm — over the right arm for right-handed rescuers. This arrangement allows for quick and efficient placement of the rescue sling onto the victim once they are reached while the carabiner setup ensures that the haul team pulls the victim first during extraction.
When approaching the victim, the rescuer should grab the victim’s arm on the same side as the sling placement, such as the right arm if the sling is on the rescuer’s right side. This alignment simplifies the process of sliding the sling over the victim’s head and positioning it securely under their armpits. The non-cinching Velcro strap is then tightened to ensure the sling is snug around the victim. At this point, the rescuer needs to decide whether they will be able to extract the victim from on top of the ice or if entering the water is necessary to help the victim out.
If the rescuer decides to stay on the ice, they should position themselves off to one side of the victim. This will allow the rescuer to assist with the pull by grabbing onto the water sling’s strap. Additionally, the rescuer will want to instruct the victim to grab the front of the sling and kick their feet once the pull begins, if they are capable. Once ready, the haul team is signaled to begin pulling while the rescuer simultaneously pulls on the sling and guides the victim onto the ice.
If the rescuer needs to enter the water, they should instruct the victim to hold onto the front of the sling and position themselves
to one side of the victim—typically the victim’s left side if the rescuer is right-handed. Entering the water in a controlled manner, the rescuer positions the victim’s shoulder against their chest. From this position, the rescuer will use their dominant hand to lift from the crotch of the victim and guide the victim over the ice edge. Once in position, the haul team is signaled to pull while the rescuer assists in the extraction.
Ice rescues are dynamic and demand fire departments to stay adaptable and prepared for rapid decision-making. This article is not an all-encompassing guide to ice rescue, it simply outlines one specific technique applicable for a victim hanging on the edge of the ice. When training with your department, practice a variety of scenarios, evaluate what works and what doesn’t, and refine your approach to ensure you’re ready for whatever challenges your team encounters.
• Equipment Use: Ensure all team members can correctly rig and deploy the MARSARS Cold Water Rescue Sling, including attaching carabiners and positioning the sling on a victim.
• Victim Handling: Practice approaching, securing, and packaging a victim on the ice.
• Victim Extraction: Practice pulling the victim from the water onto the ice, both from an in-water position and while remaining on the ice.
Cole Kleinwolterink is a member of the Waukee Fire Department, Granger Fire Department, and Fire Science instructor at Des Moines Area Community College. Feel free to reach out to him at kleinwolterinkc@gmail.com with any questions, comments or inquiries.
On December 24 , at approximately 1:58 p.m., the Clear Lake Fire Department responded to a reported fire at a 2 1/2 stall detached garage located at 1019 South 8th Street. Upon arrival, the garage was fully involved in flames and was determined to be a total loss. The garage contained a 2011 Ford Edge and a 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle, both of which were destroyed in the fire. The cause of the fire was traced back to a cooking incident. The homeowner was using a smoker when grease caught fire. Despite attempting to extinguish the flames with a fire extinguisher, the homeowner was unable to do so. Fortunately, no injuries were reported at the scene, and the garage was insured. A nearby structure, including a second garage and a hot tub, sustained some heat damage. The total loss is estimated at near $80,000. The Clear Lake Fire Department responded with one ladder truck, one fire pumper, one medic unit, and a pickup truck. Mutual aid was provided by the Ventura Fire Department and the Clear Lake Police Department.
The 30th annual Iowa Firefighter›s Memorial service will be held on June 8, 2025, at the memorial in Coralville. The annual candlelight service will be on Saturday night, June 7th at 9 p.m. at the Memorial.
The address for the site is 1 Russell Slade Blvd. (exit 242 off of I-80).
A block of rooms has been reserved at the Raddison Hotel & Conference Center in Coralville (next to the Memorial site) for Saturday night June 7, 2025. The cost is $89 plus tax. Phone number 319-351-5049, ask for the block of rooms for the Iowa Firefighters Memorial. The rooms
will be held until May 23rd, at that time they will go back to the hotel.
We have memorial T shirts, sweatshirts, koozies, memorial history books and history DVDs for sale.
The next cut off date for adding names to the walls is MAY 10th, 2025.
Please be sure to mail the application form to us before the deadline so that it arrives by MAY 10th.
PLEASE type or print very clearly the person’s name so we can read it and get it spelled correctly on the walls (check with the family about the correct spell-
Here is a list of departed firefighters since the last newsletter. If you know of a fellow firefighter who passed away, and their name is not listed in this newsletter, contact the executive director’s office and she will add their name to the list in the next newsletter.
Robert Starr – Panora Fire Department
Donald Simmons – Tipton Fire & Rescue
Allen Koch - Tipton Fire & Rescue
Henry Maupin, Jr. – Des Moines Fire Department
Tom Viet – Geneva Fire Department
Andy Sinnwell, retired Forest City Firefighter (Andy did the original two Memorial prints), is making a pencil drawing firefighters print. The title will be “A Tribute to Iowa Firefighters Past, Present and Future”.
All proceeds from the sales of these prints will go towards the firefighter’s Memorial wall expansion. To reserve a specific print number on your memorial print please contact: Jim Thiele as soon as possible at jimthiele171@gmail.com or call 641-494-9677. The reserved numbers will be on a first come first served basis.
You MUST HAVE YOUR ORDER FORM/PAYMENT SUBMITTED BY MAY 15, 2025 to get the print number you reserved. Order forms will be available at the IFA Mid Year meeting in March of 2025. Watch future IFA newspapers for updates and more details.
ing if you are in question). We had three applications sent in by fire departments this year where the name was spelled wrong. The names cannot be changed once they are on the walls.
Send forms and contributions to: Mike Reuman, Chairman, Iowa Firefighters Memorial, PO Box 7, Traer, IA 50675.
The criteria for getting a name on the walls (Outside of Line of Duty) is the firefighter must have served a minimum of 10 years on an Iowa Fire Department or died while an active member of an Iowa Fire Department. Currently the cost to have a name added to the walls is $100 and must be paid by the family or the fire department. A form for placing a departed firefighter’s name on the Memorial Wall can be found in the Iowa Firefighter Newspaper each month, or you can go to the Memorial Website www. iowafirememorial.org. Their names will be engraved on the wall just the way it is written on the form. Line of Duty Deaths are paid for by the Memorial. They also need a completed form for the LODDs. Also, please include a short biography of the person so this information can be on the Memorial website.
Contributions to the Memorial since the last issue of the Iowa Firefighter: MEMORIAL WALL EXPANSION DONATIONS:
• Dave & Rochel AndersonLake Mills
• Anonymous donation
JUNE 8 , 2025
Deadline for name applications: May 10, 2025
We must have the completed application by May 10 th .
PLEASE - PLEASE – PLEASE CHECK and RE-CHECK with the FAMILIES FOR CORRECT SPELLINGS — EVEN IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW IT.
We had three applications sent in by fire departments this year where the firefighter’s name was spelled wrong. The names cannot be changed once they are on the walls.
In less than 10 years the Memorial Walls will be full. We have an Architect on board and plans have been drawn up for the Memorial expansion. This will be an expensive project so any and all donations are greatly appreciated. A separate account has been created for this project. If you or your department or anyone else would like to make a donation, please mark your check wall expansion so it is put in the proper account.
Please keep the following in your thoughts & prayers...
• FOR ALL THOSE WHO SERVE AND PROTECT
If you notify us of a name to be added to the prayer list, please also notify when that person’s name can be removed from the prayer list.
The family of
would like to have their family member’s name inscribed on the Iowa Firefighter’s Memorial Wall. He/She was a member of the _____________________________ Iowa Fire Department serving from ______________ to _____________ (minimum 10 years), or died while an active member of this department. The family or fire department agrees to pay the cost of having this name put on the Memorial Wall. Also, a short biography of this person is requested so that it may be at the Memorial site.
Signed: , Fire Chief
Family members name/address/phone no. for contacting about memorial service:
Name: Relationship to deceased:
Address:
City/State/Zip
Phone No. ( )
Fire Department contact person for contacting about memorial service:
Name: Title:
Address:
City/State/Zip Phone No. ( )
IA 50675
By BRIAN NITZSCHKE
The monthly report from Le Mars Fire-Rescue says there were 153 calls for service in December 2024. 33 were fire/rescue calls, which included special operations, requests for services, staff calls, and investigations. There were 120 EMS/rescue calls, which included emergency calls, vehicle accidents, and hospital transfers. 85 were 911 calls, 35 were transfers in and out of Le Mars, and 9 involved second calls.
Other highlights include a retirement coffee for Assistant Fire/EMS Chief Mike Wise, two fire/rescue members being promoted to Battalion Chiefs, and two new employees being hired.
Email your Upcoming Event by the 10th of the previous month (ex. Aug. 10 for the September issue) to jeff@ iowafirefighter.com . There is no charge.
MAR. 28-29, 2025: MidYear Meeting & Banquet, Hilton Garden Inn, Cedar Falls.
JUNE 7-8, 2025: 30th Annual Iowa Firefighters Memorial Service and Candlelight Service.
SEPT. 3-7, 2025: Iowa Firefighters Association Convention, hosted by the Iowa Firefighters Association Board of Directors and Convention Committee at the Central Iowa Expo Grounds near Boone, IA.
No injuries were reported in an early morning fire in rural Dubuque County. Emergency personnel responded around 12:43 a.m. Jan. 3 to a report of a fire at 21179 Plum Creek Road in Holy Cross, according to a news release from the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department.
The release states the subsequent response and investigation into the incident revealed that a tractor caught fire at the property and caused damage to nearby outbuildings and other equipment. The total damage was estimated at $100,000.
The release states the fire is not suspicious in nature. Responding agencies included the Sheriff’s Office, Sherrill Fire and Holy Cross Fire and EMS.
(Dyersville Commercial, Dyersville, Jan. 8, 2025)
and Eric Foelske, 25 years.
President
AARON CLEMONS
1612 12th St. Eldora, IA 50627
Cell: 641-485-4620
Email: aclemons@iafireassn.org
1st Vice-President
KENT BRIX 607 Fulton St. Grand Mound, IA 52751 Cell: 563-320-0652
Email: kbrix@iafireassn.org
2nd Vice-President
MIKE KIME 23297 White Tail Road Waucoma, IA 52171 641-330-7488
Email: mkime@iafireassn.org
3rd Vice-President
RICK SCHMIDT 3216 245th Street Dewitt, IA 52742
319.480.4759
E: rschmidt@iafireassn.org
4th Vice-President
LONNIE NEWHALL
1402 210th Street Independence, IA 50644
319.239.8547
E: lnewhall@iafireassn.org
5th Vice-President
ADAM KUTZ
109 Mallard Ave Lakeside, IA 50588
712.299.1975
E: akutz@iafireassn.org
Past - President
ROGER CARR 404 Lincoln Ave. Holland, IA 50648 Cell: 319-610-3989 Email: rcarr@iafireassn.org
Executive Director
TAYLOR MOORE PO Box 10 Milford, NE 68405-0010 402.326.4347 ifaoffice@iafireassn.org
IFA Chaplain
DEAN HESS
641.430.2318
E: dchess.hess@gmail.com
Greetings Fellow FirefightersBy now the legislative session is well under way. The next few months are very important. The board will need your help as we navigate through the session. Please watch for our emails and Facebook posts. There may be times when we need the help of members. Making your voice heard at the capitol is very important. We as a board can only do so much when it comes to our legislative agenda. Please contact your state representatives and let your voice be heard.
I would like to thank John and Cyndi for their hard work and dedication for the IFA. Their work behind the scenes is vital and most do not see it. We as the board are put in this position to fight for you as the members. Any support we can get especially in the capitol would be greatly appreciated. We will have updates often throughout the legislative session.
Greetings fellow firefighters, we are off into a new year, and I hope everyone was able to enjoy a peaceful holiday and all is well in your communities.
Well, we started the year of reviewing our budget in Eldora. Then we also reviewed all applications for Fire Department of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, and Scholarship request. We had several very impressive departments and individuals to select this year making it difficult. I’m very excited to see the growing response knowing we have some amazing volunteers doing amazing things for the association and their communities. Also, the impressive young citizens that are striving to serve their communities in emergency service.
I have been out to several association meetings and departments to inform you of the many things going on in the association. One thing I am happy to say is getting started is the area coordinators to assist us in get-
Hello to my fellow firefighters, by the time you read this article, we will be getting deep into the legislative season. Hopefully, many of you were able to make the Firefighter Day on the Hill in January. I remember the first time I attended the Firefighter Day on the Hill. I was very intimidated by the legislators and a past President showed me how easy it was to talk to my legislators. The legislators work for us, and they need to hear from all of us about the things we want them to support.
The board, along with our lob-
The Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP) continues to be one of our bills we will work on. This program has been so close to passing the past few years and we will keep fighting for it. This program would greatly benefit the recruitment and retention problem that most fire departments are facing. This program would offer the volunteer firefighter a chance at retirement funding following their years of dedicated service.
As stated in December we would like to invite any member to join our “Legislative Action Team”. These will be groups of dedicated volunteers working together to advocate for the policies that support Iowa’s volunteer fire departments. As a part of this team, you’ll have the opportunity to help shape the key legislation, like establishing a Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP) to provide retirement benefits for long-serving volunteers. Advo-
ting information out and to get feedback from you to improve our association. Along with this, our lobbyist have created a legislative committee. This group will be the voice, experience, giving insights and demonstrating to legislators the importance of the IFA issues. If you would like to cover your area or be part of the legislative group, please get ahold of a board member and we will get you involved to support us in keeping our association going forward.
We also received a Safer Grant which is going to help us pass the word to our communities on the need for volunteers and help departments to support the firefighters with gear and education. We are just in the starting phase so much more coming soon on this process.
Everyone counts, whether you join one of these groups or you can still show your area representatives. This is the time to approach your representatives as
byists, John, Cyndi and Libby are all working very hard to get LOSAP (Length of Service Award Program) passed again this year. Libby is working to put together a legislative action team. We are hoping that this will help you get more information on what is happening at all levels. If you’re interested in being part of this team, reach out to a board member and we will get you in touch with the right person. This is our association and it takes all of us to make it successful. I attended the funerals of Dennis Meisgeier from Manchester
Please send them to jeff@iowafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.
Aaron Clemons, President
“Mid year meeting is quickly approaching. This year it will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn, Cedar Falls March 27-30. Be sure to go to the IFA website and get signed up for the event.”
cating is simple and impactful. The team will keep you informed on legislative priorities, provide tools to reach out to lawmakers, and support you in sharing your story to amplify our message. If this is something you would be interested in helping us with, please contact the IFA office or any board member.
Mid year meeting is quickly approaching. This year it will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn,
Cedar Falls March 27-30. Be sure to go to the IFA website and get signed up for the event. If there is anything anyone would be willing to donate for the event, please let me know. Thank you!.
Respectfully,
Kent Brix, 1st Vice President
“We also received a Safer Grant which is going to help us pass the word to our communities on the need for volunteers and help departments to support the firefighters with gear and education.”
they are in session and available. Please try to meet with them, invite them to your events and sit them down and talk with them on personal issues. They really need to hear it from you; the population that votes them into their position.
As I close, I would like to encourage you to talk and listen to each other as we need to stay strong physically and mentally to provide outstanding service to protect our communities. As we
The
are a brotherhood and sisterhood of the fire service, so we must support each other to stay strong. So, take care of each other, if you have a concern for someone point it out to your leadership, as we are strongest when we take care of ourselves.
KENT BRIX, 1st Vice President
Rick Schmidt, 3rd Vice President
“Hopefully, many of you were able to make the Firefighter Day on the Hill in January. I remember the first time I attended the Firefighter Day on the Hill. I was very intimidated by the legislators and a past President showed me how easy it was to talk to my legislators. The legislators work for us, and they need to hear from all of us about the things we want them to support.”
the state
Both of these firefighters supported and provided service to their communities and will be missed. Winter is upon us and cold temps are here. Keep a close eye on your fellow firefighters when on scenes and during outdoor
training. Take advantage of training opportunities when available, like “Ice Rescue”. This time of year, provides the environment needed for “real” training for these types of scenarios. As always take care of your equipment so it can take care of you.
Eldridge crew leads three-company attack of Mount Joy trailer fire
By MARK RIDOLFI , North Scott Press
A stove fire raced through a home in the Mount Joy Trailer Park, drawing firefighters to fight flames for four hours late Sunday to early Monday in windchills below 10 degrees.
The blaze consumed the mobile home quickly, and firefighters struggled with ice and wind to keep flames and embers from damaging any of the surrounding, occupied homes.
Occupants escaped without injury, and no one else was hurt, Eldridge fire chief Keith Schneckloth said.
Eldridge Volunteer Fire Co. responded at 10:47 p.m. to a report of a stove fire in the 21400 block of Scott Park Road. Eldridge Engine 1, Engine 2 and Tanker 1 found a single-family dwelling with flames coming from the
structure.
“You’ve got to attribute it to good teamwork with Davenport fire, Long Grove and our guys,” Schneckloth said. “They had a water curtain between the burning trailer and the other homes. We’ve had opportunities to train specifically for this.”
Long Grove volunteers joined Davenport Fire Engine 3, and Davenport Fire District Chief 2 responding to mutual aid calls.
The initial call received by Scott Emergency Communication Center was for a stove on fire. When the first units arrived, the structure was fully engulfed. Crews worked defensively to extinguish the fire and protect adjacent structures.
No other structures were affected.
Cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Assisting agencies included Scott Emergency Communication Center, Scott County Sheriff’s Department, Medic EMS of Scott County, MidAmerican Energy (Gas & Electric) and American Red Cross.
Fire Department. Photos courtesy of Mark Ridolfi of the North Scott Press.
CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE IOWA FIREFIGHTER NEWSPAPER
Classified ads run $10 for the first 10 words, and 25 cents a word after that. A photo is $10 additional. Rates are the same in each state (Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas). Email the ad to jeff@iowafirefighter.com to place your personal or departmental ads.
WANTED: Old I.F.A. Convention books and Smoke-eater newspapers. Also any history on drills/contest that have happened at I.F.A. Convention. Email bowersr13@yahoo.com or text Randy Bowers at 563-02097823. FF-TFN
need it...
By JERRY KNAPP
Staffing for volunteer fire departments is always a challenge, especially when most members are at work during the business day. They maybe working in town and cannot leave, or babysitting, maybe at a doctor’s appointment or working out of town on business or vacation. Whatever the case, we had better consider some new or alternative options to operate so we can serve our customers in low manpower situations. It is Tuesday morning and the tones go in for a working house fire. When you think of your department in this situation, does that make you shudder a little?
The purpose of this article is to consider the transitional fire attack when you may not have enough interior firefighters to mount your typical aggressive interior attack. A lot has been written and said about this type of fire attack, it is actually pretty simple and effective.
Let’s go to the fire. It is 1023 hrs., Tuesday morning. Your first and maybe your only rig that will get out today is an engine that has an experienced driver behind the wheel, your newest LT in the right seat, an energetic and wellintentioned but as of yet untested, 17-year-old probie (Slappy) riding backwards on the right side and a very senior, well experienced 40-year member, age 68 (Pappy) riding backwards on the left side. One of your members meets you near the scene and is waiting at the nearest hydrant. He tags the hydrant and the engine pulls away and pulls up near the front of the house. Size up shows a 2½ story home typical of your first due area with heavy fire pushing out three windows on the first floor.
Technically you have enough manpower for 2 in 2 out but if the interior guys get in trouble with the heavy fire your pump operator and you the officer are the 2 out and that leaves no one for command and other critical pump operator duties.
Life is our first priority and if there is a need for search and rescue you sure can’t do it under these fire conditions unless you use VEIS to the upstairs bedrooms. VEIS is a great search tactic under these circumstances. Using VEIS your limited manpower can search in relative safety and in a very effective way. The down side here is that generally this time of day the bedrooms are not occupied, most house fire victims die between 11 pm and 7 am. (Source: US Fire Administration, Report on Residential Fire Fatalities…report available usfa.fema.gov) Unless you have verifiable evidence that no one is in the home, say from an escaped occupant, a search in areas that may contain salvageable human life is a manageable and worthwhile risk.
A note of caution here. We often launch immediately into a dangerous and often foolish search operations based on “reliable information.” We instantly believe the bystander or neighbor without question. Experience has proven to me when the neighbor says “they are still in there” we should ask the following question, “How do you know?” or some other fact extracting statement. I have done 9 searches in my career under very bad conditions only to find out that there was no occupant in the building 7 out of those 9 times, despite those “reliable reports.” Taking the few
seconds to ask this simple question gives the well-meaning civilian time to consider their thoughts during a very stressful time for them. It also gives the IC time to verify and help substantiate his thoughts toward risking some or all of his members on scene.
So the question is, how do you make this scene with lots of fire better with the limited resources you have on hand. One option is to aggressively apply water to the fire as quickly as possible. In this case it means stretching a line to the windows where fire is showing and knocking down the fire using the reach of the stream. Apply water thru the window from the outside.
The alternative is to wait and hope other members or rigs show up while you wait to make your interior attack. What is the fire doing all this time? It is getting bigger and, in this case, spreading upstairs. This is a house and it most likely has an open staircase. Heavy fire is showing from several windows so it is also likely that this fire has got an adequate air supply from an open door or window. Since the house has a great abundance of fuel and a good oxygen supply, the fire will take control of the entire house soon, very soon, unless you intervene with decisive amounts of water from your fire attack system.
So your members stretch the line to the side of the home where the fire is showing. It is a 1¾” with either a 15/16th smooth bore or a combination nozzle that you have flow tested and will deliver about 180 gpms. This is much more water than the fire will require but we don’t want to make this a fair fight. We want to kill the fire quickly with decisive amounts of water. The firefighter
calls for water, bleeds the line and since he is alone, kneels on the line, driving the nozzle reaction down into the ground. He will need his remaining stamina to get inside as soon as he knocks down the main body of fire from the outside. He holds the nozzle at a steep angle, close to the building, points the water toward the ceiling. Water ricochets off the ceiling falling onto the burning contents knocking down the fire in that room. This will take a few seconds and maybe an adjustment of the stream. The nozzle is basically held static in one position. It is not rotated in circles, moved in H, T or Z patterns. If the stream is not reaching the other rooms, he may have to repeat this into other windows.
Consider several of important facts:
1. First, rooms in homes are generally small and the reach of our stream is generally large. Without a doubt your fire stream will reach every portion of the involved room.
2. Second, we would all be very happy if this room had a sprinkler system flowing about 10 gpm from each head. Although a lot of your water is tracking along the ceiling and wall and falling into areas where you don’t need the water. Much of the water is falling right where you want it, on burning fuel.
3. Third, you may not need the full 180 gpm so flow it for 30 seconds and it is a 90 gpm nozzle. Flow it until you think the fire is knocked down. UL research titled: Study of the Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior and Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival stated the following in the final report: “Although less is not necessarily better, when a water supply has not been established, or in areas where no municipal supply exists, water application should not be delayed to establish a water supply. Even a 500 gallon supply tank can be sufficient to knockback two rooms of fire, if the attack crew can get the water where it needs to go. During the 25 suppression experiments conducted, using a 1-3/4 hand line flowing between 95gpm and165gpm, the most water utilized for initial knock-back and suppression was less than 250 gallons. When attacking a single room and contents fire, in a residential structure, knockback and initial suppression is often possible with less than 100 gallons, in some instances less than 75 gallons. Even flowing while moving to the compartment of origin did not result in utilizing more water than available in a 500 gallon supply tank.”
4. Fourth, the data from these 30 live burns based study showed that a 500 gallon tank on your engine will be enough for several rooms of fire. Clearly, establishing a reliable water supply with the line your engine dropped from the hydrant is always a great idea. But consider the amount of fire you can knock down with tank
water while you are awaiting for the reliable water supply and what positive effect that can have on your overall success in saving the remainder of this home or possibly protecting trapped occupants and searching firefighters.
Now it is time for phase 2 of your transitional attack, get this line or another line inside quickly to finish off the remaining fire. Once the fire is knocked down, is not the time for a congratulatory party on the lawn. You need to get inside quickly because this is an aggressive interior fire attack. You can do this by moving the first line or abandoning your first line and stretching a second maybe quicker and easier for your limited manpower.
According to UL it is important to hold this nozzle in mostly a static position. Moving it as we have been taught during an inside attack will drive a lot of air into the fire area and limiting the products of combustion from coming out the top of the window.
An obvious advantage to the engine company members is that the fire is knocked down before they advance. Although not as much of a challenge and as satisfying as a hard core aggressive interior fire attack with the associated dangers to the crew it is a very effective tactic. Consider also that if members become injured or trapped during the interior attack after the suppression from the exterior, the consequences could be significantly less resulting in less injuries or deaths from many causes.
An important part of this type of fire attack is to remember that it is an option. No one is saying do this all the time, it is an option for the engine company officer to consider. It can and should be applied at the right time under the right circumstances, with the right techniques and will result in outstanding success on the fire fireground especially in low manpower situations.
This article is a very brief summary of the practical application of the results of the Underwriters Laboratory study entitled: “Study of the Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior and Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival.” The reader is encouraged to go to the website and take the free training courses that are available there to understand the full study results to improve your safety on the fireground. ULFIREFIGHTERSAFETY.COM
Jerry Knapp is the Chief of the Rockland County, NY Hazmat Team, and is a 49 year veteran Firefighter/EMT with the West Haverstraw NY Fire Department. He served on the technical panel for the UL residential fire attack study. Knapp is the co-author of two books: House Fires and Tactical Response to Explosive Gas Emergencies published by Fire Engineering He is the owner of Suburban Tactical Inc specializing in fire officer and firefighter training.
Today is Jan. 13th, 2025 and is the first day of the 2025 legislative assembly, the first year of the biennial session.
The first week there will be a lot of administrative actions to swear in new legislators and set up committees etc. The Republicans increased their majority in both the House and Senate after the November elections. The house has a 67-33 majority and the Senate has a 34-15 majority.
Senator Cournoyer was appointed as the Lieutenant Governor after Adam Gregg stepped down last fall. Due to the vacancy, there will be a special election on Jan. 28th in her district to fill the seat for Senate District 35. The candidates are: Mike
Zimmerman (D), President of the Dewitt School Board and Katie Whittington (R), owner of Crystal Creek Enterprises.
The main focus for IFA this legislative session is to establish and secure a funding stream for a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP). LOSAP is a pension-like benefit often used as a recruitment and retention tool for emergency service volunteers. There are many of these successful programs across the country and we hope to bring one to Iowa as well. There are a few different ideas on the table for funding so the goal is to get the Senate and the House to agree on a funding stream.
In order to help this effort we
On Jan. 13 at 11 : 23 p.m. the Villisca Fire/Rescue, Stanton Fire Department and Red Oak Fire Department were dispatched to 109 W 2nd Street in Villisca for a reported fully engulfed shed fire. Upon VFD arrival, flames were visible coming from an approximately 250 square foot single story shed. Fire crews were advised no one was inside, so defensive (exterior) fireground operations were started and crews were able to quickly transition to offensive (interior) fireground operations. The fire was quickly suppressed, however extensive overhaul operations were conducted as the fire had begun around a modified woodstove/chimney area and extended up the interior of the wall, eventually burning through to the outside. Occupants state starting the wood stove approximately 30 minutes prior to observing the fire. Two occupants and a dog were uninjured and able to self-evacuate prior to fire department arrival. No injuries to firefighters. Fireground operations were terminated at approximately 12:20 a.m. Submitted by Chief John Bruce.
have set up an IFA Legislative Action Team and THANK-YOU to all of you who have volunteered to participate. This team will be instrumental in helping to get legislative news spread quickly across the state in hopes of getting some grassroots action to legislators. They need to hear from their constituents, not just the lobbyist and the board.
If you have not signed up yet, please consider joining the team. You will be one of the first to know what is happening at the Capitol and be able to share any news with departments in your area.
It is important to have mem-
John & Cyndi Pederson, Lobbyists
“The main focus for IFA this legislative session is to establish and secure a funding stream for a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP). LOSAP is a pension-like benefit often used as a recruitment and retention tool for emergency service volunteers.”
bers across the state to make this work. Contact Libby Crimmings if you want to help! Libby.crimmings@gmail.com
Feel free to contact us at any time if you have questions or ideas. Pedersonconsulting@gmail.com 515-229-4748 JOHN and
Top: The Manchester Fire Department honored Blake Cook with their Firefighter of the Year Award. Presenting the award is Chris Cook (Blake’s Father) and IFA 4 th Vice Lonnie Newhall. Above: Manchester Fire Department honored Kevin Graybill on his retirement after 32 years with the department. Presenting the Meritorious Service Award to Kevin is his wife Ronda and IFA 4 th Vice President Lonnie Newhall.
No injuries, deaths in either
On Sunday evening, Logan Fire and Rescue was called to a house fire at 421 E. Ninth Street in Logan. There were no injuries or fatalities reported, as the residents (a woman and four children) exited the home safely.
Receiving a page at 5:19 p.m., the Logan department called for
assistance from Woodbine and Magnolia, but cancelled Magnolia before their department had left the hall.
Arriving at the residence, a fire in the attic was observed in the attic, according to Logan Fire Chief Craig Charbonneau. The fire was directly above the bedroom closet, and it was determined that the fire was caused by bad wiring in the closet light.
Members of the Logan and Woodbine departments were able
A fire severely damaged a LeClaire restaurant early Friday, authorities said.
Steventon’s Riverfront Food & Spirits, 1399 Eagle Ridge Road, remained cordoned off by caution tape late Friday morning.
Portions of the building’s roof appeared to have collapsed or burned away, and a jumble of debris could be seen through the windows on the building’s eastern half.
According to a news release issued by the LeClaire Fire Department, firefighters were sent to the restaurant at 1:39 a.m. after the Scott Emergency Communications Center had received a call stating there was a fire behind the building.
LeClaire police arrived first on the scene and re- ported there was heavy fire and smoke coming from the building. The fire call was then upgraded to a general alarm for a structure fire and the Bettendorf Fire Department provided mutual aid.
The first LeClaire firefighters arrived on the scene at 1:46 a.m. and found heavy smoke and fire coming from the entire north side of the building.
Multiple hose lines were used to fight the fire, but due to the size of the blaze and falling roof conditions, fire- fighters who were inside the structure were
ordered out.
Crews were then able to transition back into the building with multiple hose lines, which resulted in the fire being controlled and extinguished, according to the news release. Fire crews then worked to find and extinguish hot spots throughout the structure.
There were no occupants in the building at the time of the fire, and no one was injured.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
“We at Steventon’s would like to express our gratitude for the kind words and support we have received during this difficult time,” the restaurant said in a news release sent Friday morning.
The post stated that Steventon Wagner opened the establishment in 1992, and the business has enjoyed serving its customers and friends. It also appreciated the loyalty and love of its staff.
“We have loved and sup- ported the LeClaire community and the Quad-Cities from the very beginning, and we sincerely hope to have the opportunity to serve you all again in the future,” the re- lease concluded.
LeClaire Fire also was assisted at the scene by the Riverdale Fire Department, LeClaire Police Department, LeClaire Public Works and Medic EMS.
(Davenport Quad-City Times, Davenport, Jan. 4, 2025; written by Anthony Watt, staff writer.)
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a lactic acid spill near Adair in Adair County.
On Jan. 7, the DNR Field Office in Atlantic was notified of a semi-trailer on fire at the I-80 eastbound rest area, approximately three miles east of the city of Adair.
to get that part of the structure knocked down before putting in an attic ladder and checking for hot spots.
Responders were able to leave the scene at 6:55 p.m., and Charbonneau estimated that the damage to the home wasn’t too extreme, relatively speaking.
This marks the second house fire in Logan in the past month, as a fire at 203 E. Fifth St. took place back on Dec. 12, 2024, with the family also safely exiting the home in that instance. A story on that fire can be found in the Dec. 25, 2024 edition of the Times-News or online at missourivalleytimes.com.
(Missouri Valley Times-News, Missouri Valley, Jan. 8, 2025; written by Aaron Hickman, staff writer.)
The semi, owned by World Way Freight Transport, was hauling poly totes of lactic acid when the driver noticed the trailer tires were smoking and pulled over at the rest area. The driver attempted to extinguish the fire, but was unsuccessful.
The Adair Fire Department responded to the incident and upon arrival observed the majority of the trailer and its contents were on-fire. It is estimated that approximately 550 gallons of lactic acid were lost due to the fire and firefighting activities.
Crews from the Iowa Department of Transportation placed sand in multiple locations in an attempt to capture the product. However, the acid and water mixture flowed through two storm drains, off the concrete, and onto adjacent farm ground. The mix-
ture flowed approximately 200 feet in the field before entering a tile intake which outlets into an unnamed tributary of the South Fork Middle River, located approximately half a mile directly west of the rest area.
An environmental clean- up company arrived at ap- proximately 8:00 p.m. to be- gin cleanup efforts. Samples have been collected. The area is being sanitized with a neutralizing agent, and the contaminated soil will be excavated or treated onsite. The rest area will remain closed until clean up is complete. Downstream users should avoid the area and remove cattle if needed. No dead fish have been observed in the river at this time, and the investigation is ongoing. To report a release after hours, please call the DNR’s emergency spill line at (515) 725-8694. Quick reporting can help DNR staff identify the cause of an incident. The DNR website has more information about spill reporting requirements.
(Harlan News-Advertiser, Harlan, Jan. 10, 2025)
On Dec . 31 at approximately 9:18 a.m., the Corning Fire Department and Villisca Fire Department were dispatched to 1025 230th Street, rural Nodaway, for a reported chimney fire. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the fire had extended into the attic area and due to increased wind, the fire spread rapidly throughout the remaining residence. The residence was occupied at the time and the occupants were able to evacuate without incident. Additional mutual aid was requested for Fire Department Tanker support from: Grant Fire Department, Stanton Fire Department, Lenox Fire Department, Prescott Fire Department and Red Oak Fire Department. Two firefighters were treated on scene for minor injuries, none needing to be transported. The fireground operations were terminated at approximately 1 p.m. The residence is considered a total loss (value unknown at time of release). The owners, family, friends and insurance representative were on scene to offer assistance to the owner/occupants (Joe and Lisa Kernen). Submitted by Chief John Bruce.
A Cedar Rapids man was arrested this week on charges that he lit a fire in a motel, was taken to a hospital — and then lit a fire in the hospital.
Joseph Detrent, 70, is charged with first-degree arson and reckless use of fire. According to a criminal complaint, Cedar Rapids police were called Monday to the Motel 6 at 3325 Southgate Ct. SW, where Detrent lives, for a report of a fire outside the building.
Police found a wheelchair
with some clothing on it sitting outside Detrent’s room that was smoking and smoldering from being set on fire. Detrent admitted to starting the fire in his room and then pushing the chair outside once it was lit, the complaint states.
Detrent was taken to Mercy Medical Center. The complaint doesn’t say what injuries he had or if they were a result of the fire. Early Tuesday, he started another fire in the hospital room, the com-
Those traveling west on Highway 34 toward Mt. Pleasant from the Burlington area experienced delays after a two-vehicle collision with injuries occurred just around 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26.
Henry County Dispatch came across the radio calling for emergency services to report to the intersection of Henry Des Moines Avenue and Highway 34 for a vehicle on fire due to this collision. As emergency services made their way to the accident, dispatch reported all subjects were out of the vehicle.
Preliminary reports from those driving by the scene state that the two vehicles involved appeared to be a truck with a livestock trailer and another truck hauling propane. Both vehicles were disabled in the accident. The driver of the propane truck was walking around and talking at the scene. No reports of the other driver were available at this time. As of this report, the Iowa State Patrol had not released an official accident report. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
Community members have expressed concerns about the safety of the intersection at Henry Des Moines Avenue and Highway 34. Several residents have noted that the intersection has been the site of multiple accidents in recent years, citing factors such as limited visibility and high traffic speeds.
The intersection is known for being busy, especially during peak travel hours, with vehicles traveling at highway speeds on Highway 34.
(Washington Evening Journal, Washington, Dec. 31, 2024; written by AnnaMarie Kruse, Southeast Iowa Union.)
plaint states. Surveillance footage from the hospital shows Detrent applying an accelerant to his jacket and lighting it on fire, then putting his hospital gown on top of the fire to spread. The fire created a
significant amount of smoke and endangered other hospital occupants, according to the complaint.
Detrent was booked Monday into the Linn County Jail and made his first court appearance
on the charges Tuesday. He was ordered held on a $26,000 cashonly bail.
(Cedar Rapids Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Jan. 9, 2025; written by Emily Andersen, staff writer.)
On Dec. 19 at approximately 7:02 a.m. the Villisca Fire Department was dispatched to N U Ave/W High Street (New COOP parking area) for a report of a semi on fire. First arriving Fire apparatus reported the semi engulfed in flames, however, no extension to surrounding property had occurred. Fire crews extinguished the fire and terminated the incident at 7:33 a.m. No injuries reported. Fire contained to the engine/cab compartment. Assisting Agencies: Villisca EMS; Montgomery County Communications; and Red Oak Fire Department.
Police have arrested a man for setting fire to a Burlington home earlier this month after investigators say he was angry with the owner of the property for speaking to a woman he had been romantically involved with.
Timothy Brown, 44, of Burlington, was arrested by the Burlington Police Department on Sunday and charged with second-degree arson (class C felony).
At around 7:52 p.m. Dec. 4, the Burlington Fire Department responded to a fire at 407 S. Leebrick St. for a house that was fully engulfed in flames.
A woman who lived at the home was able to safely escape the fire and no injuries were reported, according to a press release from the Burlington Fire Department.
The home was considered a total loss and is owned by Ryan Miller and Heather Kloos, who were not home at the time of the fire.
Police recovered security video footage from neighbors showing the south side of the home lighting up and an individual wearing a coat with the hood up walking away from the home towards an alley with a suspected gas can, according to a criminal complaint.
Detectives also reviewed camera footage from those same neighbors recorded earlier in the day and observed Brown, who was known to law enforcement from previous incidents, the complaint states.
Detectives then spoke to a woman who had lived at the home, who said she and Brown had been in a relationship for a few months.
The woman told police she and Brown went to the home at 407 S. Leebrick to look for a tire, that Brown left after about 10 minutes, and that she left to go to a house on S. Starr Avenue/West Avenue.
Brown eventually came to that home, got into an argument with the owner of the S. Leebrick home over the phone, left the home, and as he was leaving, told the woman he was going to “burn the rest of my stuff,” the complaint states.
Detectives also spoke with a male and a female tenant who both heard Brown and the woman having a verbal altercation and threatening to burn her belongings, according to the complaint.
Investigators also heard a jail call recorded at 7:05 p.m. Dec. 4 between Brown and the male victim in the case, and Brown could be heard on the recording saying “I’m burning it too” before a door could be heard slamming on the call, the complaint states.
Detectives also listened to a jail phone call recorded on Dec. 7 in which a man who lives in the area of May Avenue and Maple Street and the male victim in the case were speaking, and the man told the victim he had let Brown borrow a coat, and when Brown returned it, it smelled like gas, according to the complaint.
When detectives spoke with that man, he admitted to letting Brown borrow his coat the night of the fire but denied it smelled like gas, the complaint states.
When detectives spoke with Brown, he admitted to being at 407 S. Leebrick St. earlier in the
day and that he had gotten into a verbal argument with the male victim over the phone, stating that he was angry the woman who lived at the home still speaks to the male victim, according to the complaint.
Brown also told investigators he was in the area of S. Marshall Street and Amelia Street the night of the fire when his brother picked him up, but he did not know what time that occurred, and he also denied being in the neighborhood or on camera when the fire started.
Detectives spoke with the woman again on Dec. 13, and she told
detectives Brown admitted to her that he had burned down the house because he “was mad and not thinking,” the complaint states.
Brown told the woman he put his last $5 in a gas tank, walked through the house to make sure no one was inside, put gas all over the house, and then started the fire with a napkin, according to the complaint.
The woman also told police Brown had borrowed a coat and put a mask on at that time.
Detectives also located security camera footage from a Circle K gas station from Dec. 4 and ob-
served Brown carrying a red gas can at around 7:30 p.m., purchasing $5 worth of gas, and walking west bound with the gas tank, the complaint states.
A warrant was issued for Browns arrest on Dec. 20.
Brown was taken into custody by police on Sunday after a patrol officers spotted him in the area of Mt. Pleasant Street and Chalfant Street just after 1:32 p.m.
As officers were attempting to place Brown under arrest, he fled on foot and was apprehended after a short foot pursuit.
As officers were searching
Brown’s pants, they located a glass pipe used for smoking methamphetamine, as well as a pipe used for smoking marijuana in Brown’s backpack, the complaint states.
Brown was additionally charged with interference with official acts and possession of drug paraphernalia (simple misdemeanors).
Brown is being held at the Des Moines County Jail on $25,000 cash-only bond.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Jan. 9 at the Des Moines County Courthouse.
(Burlington Hawk Eye, Burlington, Jan. 2, 2025)
A fire broke out at Corteva Agriscience in Renwick the morning of January 9. According to Humboldt County Emergency Management Director Kyle Bissell, the fire started in the discard area. All alarms and safety systems functioned as required. All occupants were able to evacuate safely and were sheltered in the city hall. No injuries were reported. Renwick and Goldfield Fire Departments were on scene and got the fire under control. Photo by Kyle Bissell, Humboldt County Emergency Management Director.
Three people are dead, two were rescued and a sixth person was airlifted to University of Iowa Health Care after an early morning fire Monday in Davenport.
The Davenport Fire Department responded to a home in the 1300 block of W. Eighth Street about 3:15 a.m. for a report of a structure fire. Scott County dispatchers advised multiple 911 calls reported smoke and heavy fire coming from both stories of the two-story, single-family dwelling.
Dispatch advised at the time that two people were trapped in the basement and could not get out due to smoke and fire blocking the exit, a news release from the fire department said. The first arriving crews found heavy fire on the exterior of the home and stretched a hose line to extin-
guish the heaviest of it.
Crews transitioned to fighting the fire in the interior of the home, where additional personnel were able to breach the rear of the first-floor entrance to access the basement stairs, which were engulfed, the release said. Two people were extracted from the basement and transported to the hospital for treatment. Their condition was unknown.
One of the victims told first responders there were more people on the second floor.
Fire crews continued to extinguish the fire and eventually found an unresponsive man, who was brought out of the home and transported to Genesis East before being airlifted by MedForce to the Iowa City hospitals in critical condition.
Three additional victims with burn injuries died. The identities of the deceased were being withheld until they can be positively identified and autopsies can be per- formed, the news release said.
The cause of the fire is still is under investigation.
(Cedar Rapids Gazette, Cedar Rapids, Jan. 7, 2025; written by Gretchen Teske, Quad-City Times.)
Three dogs have died after a fire severely damaged a two-story home in Walker, Dec. 29.
According to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and first responders were dispatched to the fire just after 3:30 p.m. at 500 Park Street. When emergency personnel arrived, they found flames and smoke coming from the house.
Firefighters worked quickly to bring the blaze under control; however, the home suffered significant damage. At the time of the fire, the residents were not at home, but, three dogs died in the incident.
The Sheriff’s Office reported that the fire is not considered suspicious, but the cause of the blaze has yet to be determined.
(Central City Linn News-Letter, Central City, Jan. 2, 2025)