Fire Watch: Volume 12, Issue 3 by Toronto Professional Fire Fighters' Association

HALL SHOWCASE ON STATION 442 VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 3

Publications Agreement No: 41203011

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 1

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 2

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TORONTO PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION

VOLUME 12

ISSUE 3

IN THIS ISSUE 14

FIRE WATCH (ISSN 1715-5134) is published quarterly by the TORONTO PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION 14 Cosentino Drive, Toronto ON M1P 3A2 Tel: 416.466.1167 www.torontofirefighters.org E-mail: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org CHIEF EDITOR Frank Ramagnano MANAGING EDITORS James Coones & Suzanne Boss Tel.: 416.466.1167 Fax: 416.466.6632 E-mail: firewatch@torontofirefighters.org

President’s Message

Secretary-Treasurer’s Message

Vice President’s Message

Chaplain’s Corner

Letters to the Editor

Hazmat 101

Naloxone

The Long Road to Become a Toronto Firefighter

The 18th Annual TPFFA Christmas Party

Roll The Heavy

Positive Space LGBTQ

Member Profile on Ken De Jong

Hall Showcase on Station 442

Behind the Mask

2016 TPFFA Movember Campaign

3888 Recent Happenings

ASSISTANT EDITORS Mykhail Baehr, Marla Friebe, James Kennedy, Matt Rayner HA LL SH OW CA SE ON ST AT ION 44 2

DESIGN AND ART DIRECTION Bryan Middleton

VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 3

On The Cover

ADVERTISING Please contact Bill Monson at 416-466-9180 ext. 322 or e-mail monson@torontofirefighters.org

Toronto Firefighters descend the ladder bed of Aerial 345 during the six alarm fire at the Badminton and Racquet Club of Toronto on February 14, 2017

Merchant Card Acceptance

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, or otherwise without prior written permission from the publisher. FIRE WATCH is an official communication tool of the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association. The Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (TPFFA) does not assume responsibility for statements of fact or opinion made by any contributor. Comments made by individuals may not reflect the official position of the TPFFA. Acceptance and publication of articles, advertisements, products and services does not indicate endorsement of same by the TPFFA, and the TPFFA assumes no responsibility for their accuracy.

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 3

Photo Credit: Mykhail Baehr Publications Agreem

ent No: 41203011

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 4

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

We’re stronger together

couple is celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary when someone asks them about the secret to a good marriage. “Twice a week, we go for a nice, quiet candlelight dinner,” one partner says. “Yeah!” says the other. “I go on Tuesdays and they go on Thursdays.” It’s a cute joke, and at this point you might think I’m going to write about something personal or start writing about what our Chaplains should be discussing. Sort of, but it’s not personal; I would like to discuss our association’s partnership or ‘marriage’ to both the International Association of Fire Fighters and Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association. I occasionally hear members questioning our involvement in the IAFF and the OPFFA, when one looks at the cost. I understand being as large as we are there are many items we can do ourselves and be self-sufficient. So it begs the question, why belong and is it worth it for our organization? Our 2016-2017 budget allocated $485,000 to each of those two associations for what is known as our per-capita. This is the amount that is approved by each organization’s membership in terms of services to fund. This is set by us, the membership of these two associations, and all the individual local and provincial leaders who joined at the various conventions each organization holds. Our budget is $3.6 million so each group is taking 13% of our budget or combined one quarter of our financial resources. That’s the financial perspective, but let’s examine what we get in return: Strength in numbers: All of the health and safety advances and other legislative and political action victories achieved by professional fire fighters were achieved because we were unified at the provincial and federal levels and spoke with one voice, backed by the resources of thousands of members. Our solidarity is our influence and our capability; individually we would not have been able to accomplish these things. The IAFF is North America’s leading advocate in fire fighter safety; the OPFFA is a leader in labour education, roles that were developed with the resources available from a large, unified membership. As a large local, we play an important role in ensuring the OPFFA and the IAFF are strong and capable advocates for professional fire fighters in Ontario and across Canada. We take pride in knowing we are pulling our weight and helping brothers and sisters across Ontario and across North America. This is very important to us not only because we feel it is the right thing to do. If we’re the biggest and we’re at the top of the pyramid then does it not bode well for us to ensure the pyramid is as high as it can be? If we want to be at the top of the heap then we need to ensure that the heap is as large as it rightfully ought to be. This is not only financial but it involves health and safety, working conditions, innovations and other items.

Experience: Across this great union, IAFF and OPFFA leaders and staff have experienced and responded to virtually every kind of situation, every crisis. So when another local experiences that situation, the knowledge base exists and the local can tap into existing experience and resources; learn the do’s and don’ts from those who have been through it. The vast experience of elected presidents, district vice presidents and other leaders is at our disposal anytime we need it, backed by professional staff in Burlington, Ottawa and Washington, DC. We share our experience freely with our affiliated brothers and sisters, and we get to share in their experience when we need it. Resources: The IAFF for example provides a raft of in-house resources, all included with our dues with no extra bill at the end of the day. GIS mapping, municipal financial analysis, collective bargaining data, custom assistance with health and safety, media relations, governmental relations just to name a few services we qualify for and receive, through our affiliation. Not only would we pay dearly for these services if we had to source them independently, but the services you get from the IAFF and OPFFA are designed by firefighters, for firefighters. If you hire an outside firm, they may not understand the unique requirements of the job and our role in public safety. Our affiliation also ensures we have a seat at many, many important conferences and conventions such as the OPFFA’s Labour Education seminars and the IAFF’s Affiliate Leadership Training and Redmond Health and Safety Symposiums. We are afforded strong representation at the IAFF and OPFFA Conventions, where the voices and the wishes of our rank and file members are heard when the policies and directions of these two organizations are democratically determined. Our Voice Provincially and Federally: The OPFFA and the IAFF speak for us at Queen’s Park and on Parliament Hill, they lobby for us every day and organize annual grassroots legislative conferences in which we proudly participate alongside our brothers and sisters from across Ontario and across Canada respectively. The provincial and international also defend the image and the name of professional fire fighters in the media any and every time it needs defending. They stand up for us. From both the IAFF and OPFFA we have received financial support for our Fight Back campaigns. The IAFF regularly helps with our FirePac fund and government relations initiatives. The latest from the IAFF is partnering to hire a production company to film our co-high rise training exercise. I would like to put a bit of perspective to the numbers I early quoted. With the presumptive legislation the average settlement to a family is over half a million dollars. We are honouring 18 of our members this year alone and imagine the consequences to those families alone if we were not as successfully as we were with the legislation.

Frank Ramagnano

Just this year, the IAFF convinced the federal government to budget $80 million for a national public safety officer compensation (POSC) benefit that will provide $300,000 to surviving families of fall fire fighters starting in 2018, including TPFFA members who will sadly make the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the public. I look at other organizations that are more independent and when I weigh what we have accomplished together versus what they have accomplished apart it is clear to me that our partnerships with the IAFF and the OPFFA are well worth the price. A few other accomplishments but just a small snap shot: Bill 58 - Amendments to the Safe Streets Act Allows fire fighters to take to the streets to raise money for their favourite charities. Bill 40 - Emergency Service Providers Insurance Protection Act Provides protection for fire fighters’ personal insurance rates. Bill 128 - Marijuana Grow Labs Act Increased protection for Emergency Responders. Bill 28 - Mandatory Blood Testing Act Quicker access to medical exposure information for fire fighters. Bill 107 - An Act to Proclaim Fire Fighter Memorial Day Legislation recognizes fallen fire fighters. Bill 206 - OMERS Autonomy Pension enhancements and improvements for fire fighters. Bill 221 - Presumptive Legislation Amendments to the WSIA to provide compensation for and recognition of eight cancers and heart injury for fire fighters. Expanded to 14 cancers and Post Traumatic was also added. Finally, if you still need more convincing, then don’t take it from me, just take a look at this article written by an outside observer in the media: https://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2016/02/18/how-firefighters-beatpoliticians-at-their-own-game-cohn.html

Unions accomplish things and gain strength by pooling resources and being united. It only makes sense that the more resources we pool and the more united we are, the stronger we are and the more we will accomplish.

Frank Ramagnano President, Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association, I.A.F.F. Local 3888 Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 5

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 6

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

SECRETARY-TREASURER’S MESSAGE PROJECT RESURRECTION: REBRANDING AND REBUILDING OUR FIREFIGHTER GALA CHARITY FUNDRAISER

rior to the 2016 event, many, if not most of our members, had no inclination that we hosted an annual Toronto Firefighters Gala. This annual event has, for the past eighty-eight years, been our single largest charity fundraising event. At this annual Gala, we obtain the majority of funds that are donated to so many different charities throughout the year. Other fundraising that we conduct comes in the form of more specific campaigns, such as Boot Drives for Muscular Dystrophy Canada and our ‘Care Enough to Wear Pink’ and ‘Move for Movember’ initiatives. The Toronto Firefighters Gala was initiated by the former Local 113 in 1929. Unfortunately, I have not been able to locate or access much historical information or data on the event for its past eightyeight years, except that for a stretch of time in the 1980’s and 1990’s, the Gala was held at the Royal York Hotel and was a formal black tie event that featured proper ballroom dancing and was very well attended. Over the years, the event has evolved and has continuously raised respectable amounts of money, which go directly into our charity account and is then disbursed throughout the year to worthwhile, charitable causes. Unfortunately however, over the years, the event has also witnessed a steady decline in the number of people who attend the actual Gala itself. This is due in part to the singular focus of ticket sales that has been employed in the past, as well as a lack of good marketing for the actual event - especially to our own members. In 2016, the new Charity Committee, Chaired by Gerlando Peritore and made up for the first time from several members from the floor (Peter Andrew, Jason Bodi, Adam McFadden, Murdo Moody, Greg Gilchrist and Rashid Rawdat) and assisted by the Social Media Committee (Dan Vieira and James Kennedy), decided that they were going to make it a top priority to focus on doing what was necessary to rebrand and revitalize this event. New ideas and initiatives were brainstormed, with the goal of having as many of our own members attend the Gala and treat it as a topnotch social function and night out together for Toronto Firefighters, while at the same time, raising as much funding as possible for our charitable endeavours. A significant amount of time and effort was put into planning the 2016 Toronto Firefighter Gala. Although the venue did not change for this event in 2016, a new band was hired, gift bags were distributed to attendees, roses were presented to female attendees, free photos with an antique Toronto fire truck were taken, a huge silent auction was run,

door prizes, raffles and 50/50 draws were held, and it was advertised and marketed across our social media and other platforms much better than in the past. The dedication, innovation and great efforts that were made in 2016 paid off in a big way, as we had approximately 400 people attend the event – at least 5 times as many people that had attended for many years prior. The reviews from members were extremely positive and so many said that they couldn’t wait for next year’s Gala. With the overwhelming success of the 2016 event, a new inspiration was born within the Committee and plans got underway to make further improvements and grow the event larger in 2017.

The first change, and certainly the largest, was to try out a new venue. After several meetings and much negotiating, we settled on the 160,000 square foot, fully renovated and immaculate facility known now as the Beanfield Centre. This new venue would provide the foundation for us to raise the bar to a new level and accommodate up to 1,200 attendees. The Committee worked extremely hard to secure some corporate sponsors - Lush, Street Capital, TD Insurance, OPFFA, Comtech Fire Credit Union, All Professional Trades, as well as others. We had various vendors attend and offer samples of their products to our guests. Once again, Lush provided

James Coones

gift bags to the first 500 people through the door and our Toronto Fire Fighter Calendar girls and guys handed out roses until they were gone. We hired a third party to expand and enhance our silent and live auctions. There were twenty tables that contained a wide variety of items, including sports memorabilia, jewelry, artwork, appliances, etc. A new band was hired – Sherrie Gold & Overdrive – that brought a great new energy and interaction to the night, and kept the dance floor packed. Food stations were set up, which included poutine, paninis and Asian noodle boxes – all included in the $25.00 cost of a ticket. We had three different photo stations set up within the venue where you and your group could get a free photo. One photo station was set up with a r ed carpet, velvet ropes and our new Toronto Firefighter step-and-repeat backdrop. Our photo booth allowed you to dress up in various props and get some fun photos taken. And finally, the popular antique fire truck photos by Mykhail Baehr and Dina Imbrogno, all professionally lit and spectacular. The 2017 Gala saw us double our attendance from the incredible year that we had in 2016, with just over 800 people enjoying the night. By all accounts, it was by far our best Toronto Firefighter Gala in decades. We are still calculating all the financials but I am hoping that we are going to approach $100,000 raised for charity. The Committee isn’t going to rest on its laurels however. Initial meetings with the Beanfield Centre have already taken place and plans are underway to make the 2018 event larger and better than the 2017 event. If you’ve missed this event for the last two years, please consider joining us in 2018. It’s for a very worthwhile cause and it is definitely a great night out with fellow Toronto Fire Fighters.

James Coones Secretary - Treasurer, Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888 Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 7

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 8

2017-06-12 11:15 AM

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE LISTENING TO THE MEMBERSHIP CITY WIDE “One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say” Bryant H. McGill

n 1999 I was proudly sworn in as a member of the Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association Executive Board. Coming from the smallest local during the amalgamation, you quickly learn that you have to fight to be heard. Young and full of ideas, I was going to change everything. However, the 18 consecutive years that followed taught me that nothing happens quickly and it is impossible to make everyone happy. Nevertheless, as long as I put the needs of the membership first and listened to their ideas and concerns, I would gain their respect. At a time when the most powerful nation in the world entered an election with the two most controversial candidates, nominations were being accepted for Local 3888. Change was in the air. Two long standing Executive Officers had decided not to run for reelection again, leaving a gap of over 28 years of knowledge that would be impossible to replace. The City of Toronto had just announced a transition of benefits carriers, accompanied by several negative news articles on fraud; while budget cuts suggested as many as seven fire apparatuses were on the chopping block. What better time to start my path to taking on a larger leadership role in our Association. Successful campaigns in the West and East gave me a taste of what lay ahead, but nothing can prepare someone to run city-wide. From showing up at halls seconds before an alarm sounded, to empty fire prevention offices where our members were dispersed throughout their command, to having small talk in communications between calls, it was miles and miles of a constant cat and mouse game. Our membership has a diversity that is growing. The presence of the range of generations throughout Local 3888 brought back the memory of when I would sit at the table at the age of 21, too afraid to ask a question in fear of looking foolish. We have

men and women with a variety of education and experience, surprisingly untapped sentiments that were made clear time and time again. Considering that my platform was the importance of succession planning in our union, there was always plenty to talk about. Many of the questions asked were similar, but I never left a work location without taking something of value away. It didn’t matter if it was Support Division, Mechanical, Stores or Operations, everyone was engaged and many of the issues were similar. Questions ranged from contract negotiations t0 a 24 hour modified duties position in Operations, to how to make Toronto Fire better. The need to make training division specific for Operations was paramount, along with ensuring that the resources were provided and not taken away through budget cuts, as they were in the past. I have always said that when you walk into the kitchen of a fire hall, it is like being surrounded by a room full of lawyers who have been preparing for your visit all day. Imagine discussing the promotional system and the impact it would have on all individuals, while trying to find a solution that was completely fair to everyone. Proving, that it is indeed impossible to make everyone happy. I didn’t expect to see so many familiar faces everywhere I went. At amalgamation there were hard lines in the sand separating North, South, East and West. Every conversation would begin or end proudly stating what former department you belonged to. Whereas today there is an unexpected and welcomed inclusivity. Throughout both Operation and Support divisions there are similar issues. Many moustaches on my campaign posters later and over 400 visits, the membership provided an education like none other. With the weight of the membership support behind me, it is time to prove myself. Fortunately, there is strong leadership already in place in the President and Secretary

Kevin McCarthy

Treasure positions and a well-rounded Board made up of people with new ideas, who are going to change the world. Guided by the more senior Executive who recognize everything takes time. With campaign promises by the previous leadership that have led to the creation of the restructuring committee, the need to be more accessible and staying in step with technology, Local 3888 is heading in the right direction. The months that followed my acceptance into the Vice Presidency were extremely busy. The changeover of benefits was worse than advertised. Green Shield lived up to their name and delayed or blocked benefits, with no regard to the collective agreement or past practices. With grievances already in place, we were steps ahead of the other unions across the city, but it didn’t stop us from joining them to lobby the Mayor for a quicker resolve. With succession planning being one of my focuses, Co-Chairs are now being used to bridge the gaps of experience and a data base has now been created as a “Union Bible” to make it easier for new Executive Officers to transition from one committee to another. There is still plenty of work ahead and we can’t change everything. It will take time and I have learned it is impossible to keep everyone happy. But the fact remains, if we, as your elected officials never stop listening, we will have your respect.

Kevin McCarthy, Vice President, Toronto Professional Fire Fighters’ Association I.A.F.F. Local 3888

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 9

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 10

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

Be encouraged...

s I write this, it feels like the world is more unstable than it used to be. Whether it be the politics of our southern neighbour, North Korea firing another missile, the wobbly world economy, major fires in the GTA….the list seems endless. What I find interesting is that we are often most concerned with what we cannot control—at least that is what is highlighted on various newsfeeds. Yet it is all a matter of perspective—the ability to see all of the relevant information and to make sense of it all. And there is the problem. We just don’t have all the information required to see the big picture. And we instinctively compound this loss of the big picture, not by being too busy or uninformed—but by being too isolated, even in a crowd.

Thomas Friedman recently wrote a book titled “Thank You for Being Late” where he surveys our ever-accelerating culture. He sees three killers—heart disease, cancer and isolation. I agree with him—we are making great strides in fighting both heart disease and cancer— a very good thing. On the other hand, we are falling behind on engaging isolationism. What is the inherent danger of isolationism and a loss of perspective? Practically speaking, think about firefighting, where gaining perspective is crucial. Recall the recent 6-alarm St. Clair fire. Gaining perspective on that particular fire was extremely challenging due to the realities of location, wind, construction etc. Yet, as always, the firefighters of TFS worked through all of those challenges to combat the fire and prevent a potential catastrophe. Without the perseverance of the crews, the teams, the training and the intelligence of all involved

SOUTH COMMAND Rev. Barry Parker 416.271.7540 bparker@stpaulsbloor.org

no perspective would be gained and both persons and property would ultimately suffer. In this world of narrower and narrower lives—where all reality can be mediated through a smart phone, fake news and alternate facts — we fall back into our own worlds and trust only what we see or think. We can easily l ive isolated lives. The problem is, we then lose perspective. Be encouraged—work at it. Be engaged in life and relationships —things you can control. Your crew is vital. Your friends are needed. Your family is critical. Do not isolate. Get perspective! Always, Dr. Barry Parker

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 11

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 11

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

DEAR THE TORONTO PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION

THE BRANTFORD PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS ASSOCIATION Dear, Toronto Professional Firefighters Association Local 3888. Recently the TPFFA Local 3888 was able to help a close friend of mine Jennifer Landa wishes come true. Jennifer and I would like to pass on a big Thank You to you, your executive board and especially FF Gerlando Peritore and FF Wilson Wu on taking time out of there busy schedules to give Jennifer a ride along in your pink breast cancer fire apparatus and for giving us a tour of Fire Station #334. Respectfully, Sean Donohue Secretary/Treasurer BPFFA local 460 IT IS WITH GREAT THANKS It is with great thanks and appreciation that we feel the need to acknowledge you for being part of this unique, annual, community celebration the provides our neighbourhood with the opportunity to work together, as a community, for our community. The Riverdale Share Concert is a rare example of what happens when you unite the generous spirit of our friends and business community with the create talent of local artists and the tireless efforts of our volunteers. From its humble beginnings, the concert has become a family tradition that is a fun filled afternoon of entertainment that helps those in need in our community. In 2017, the Riverdale Share Concert turns 25! We will be working tirelessly throughout the next year to ensure that the 25th annual concert is truly one to remember. We hope that we can count on your continued support to reach that goal! Sincerely, Susan Baker Executive Director Riverdale Share Community Association

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 12

Thank you very much to the TPFFA for making Women’s Habitat the beneficiary of your 2016 Annual Charity Golf Tournament. The generous donations that came from this special tournament will go a long way in helping Women’s Habitat in its mission to help women and children live free from violence. Your Association has always been supportive of our agency, and your caring efforts go a long way to making Toronto a better community. We have worked with the TPFFA for many years at this tournament and look forward to collaborate with you again in 2017. With your support, our agency is helping women and children fleeing domestic violence in their path of healing. Thank you for your commitment and invaluable support. Sincerely, Lina Almanzan Resource & System Manager HOLIDAY HAMPER FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES On behalf of the Neighbourhood Centre, we would like to thank you for your outstanding support of the Sobeys Food Drive in December 2016. Your leadership in recruiting and management a team of amazing volunteers fire fighters coupled with your commitment to raising food donations was truly heartwarming. We were deeply moved by your gesture of community support. As a result of community outpouring, we were able to provide bountiful holiday hampers with boxes of food and

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 12

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

gifts to 92 families. We were also able to provide extra toys, food and kids’ clothing to an additional 15 families. The families were overwhelmed by this outpouring of generosity. Suring the delivery and afterwards we have repeatedly heard the tremendous gratitude of the recipients. Drivers were invited to come in and share tea with the families and many times the mother teared up at the sight of the turkey, thanked the delivery person and began to close the door only to realize that there were boxes coming filled with more food, gifts and household items. In 2015, the Neighbourhood Centre helped over 2,400 community members – children, youth, parents and seniors – to achieve their goals. We are confident that in the years to come, the organization will serve many more community members in new and exciting ways. Thank you again for your generous support. You have truly made a difference in this community. Thank you, Rejwan Karim Interim Executive Director Emily Price Holidya Hamper Coordinator I AM WRITING ON BEHALF OF OUR FAMILY… To thank you for calling together the members of the Toronto Firefighters Association to stand in solidarity with the fallen victims of the Tehran Sakhtemon Plastco disaster. My husband, Mohammad Javaheri, at Station 321 is a quiet person, so he would be the last to say this, but thank you from all of us. Mohammad, or Hassan as he is better known, is originally from Tehran, and we believe is among Toronto’s first IranianCanadian firefighters. He dreamed of being a Tehran firefighter as a child, but with revolutions, wars and corruption he found a new home that welcomed him with open arms in Toronto. And with patience and hardwork, Toronto Fire Services helped him rekindle his childhood dream and he is now ten years with TFS. The Iranian community takes great care in honouring its fallen. I thank you, and we all thank you for honouring these thirty fallen men as true brothers. This is so important these days, where too many people fear strangers, that we continue to see and acknowledge the bravery and kindness that is universal in all humans. We will stand with you this Sunday.

ON BEHALF OF THE SOUTHERN ONTARIO FIRE FIGHTERS HOCKEY LEAGUE And the Executive, I would like to thank you so much for your support and sponsorship of our annual tournament. It is with the assistance of your company that our tournament can continue year after year with such a great success. The thanks we receive from the participating teams, is not only directed at the people running the tournament but at the various sponsors such as yourself. The Sincerely, SOFFHL Tournament Rick Stillaway, President

Amy Proulx, PhD. CCHP Professor and Program Coordinator Culinary Innovation and Food Technology Canadian Food and Wine Institute at Niagara College

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 13

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 13

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

BY KIRK FUDGE, TORONTO FIRE FIGHTER, STATION 332-D

s humans we tend to have a curiosity when it comes to blowing things up whether your interest and curiosity was peaked because of science or just the thrill of seeing items being destroyed.

As of today there are videos showing everything from 10 pounds of products destroying cars, 145 pounds destroying barns and now one that shows 600lbs of product destroying a wooded area.

In a previous article we discussed the topic of homemade explosives using household chemicals and easily obtainable products from a local beauty supply store. Simple products such as antifreeze, brake fluid and pool shock, or even powdered sugar, can be combined to create an explosive. With everything in today’s society we tend to be attracted to products that are simple and save valuable time in our lives. Explosives are no different. In today’s article we are going to discuss the use of binary explosives with nefarious intent.

Anyone of us can walk into a big box store that sells ammunition and purchase these products without showing identification or filling out an application.

Firstly, we must understand what a binary explosive is. Binary explosives most commonly use an oxidizer, such as ammonium nitrate, and a fuel, such as aluminum or another metal, that when mixed can create an explosion when struck by an outside source such as a bullet. Binary explosives were created for commercial use in the 1970s and provided industries with a safer, inexpensive way to store and use explosives. They are often used in small quantities by long-range target shooters who want to see a puff of smoke when they strike their target or at a modern baby shower now with a puff of blue or pink smoke to reveal the sex of the baby. As with most sensations on YouTube or more commonly referred to as “hold my beer and watch this” videos, we have seen progressive trends to see who can blow up the most product up at one time. When the original concept appeared, 1-2lb targets were all that were used.

On September 17, 2016, in Ocean County, NJ,The Seaside Semper Five, a 5km run event, was expected to draw as many as 3,000 people, with many of them being veterans of the Armed Forces. The race was delayed after a suspicious backpack was noticed in the vicinity of the starting point. At about 9:30 a.m., shortly before the race was supposed to start, a pipe bomb exploded in a trash can on Ocean Avenue in Seaside Park. Three “rudimentary” pipe bombs, all reportedly timed to go off during the race, were later found, with only one of the three having exploded. No one was hurt by this bombing, however on the same day as the Seaside Park bombing, a pressure cooker bomb filled with shrapnel, in the form of small bearings or metal BB’s, exploded in a crowded area on West 23rd Street, between Sixth Avenue and Seventh Avenue at 8:31 p.m. Twenty-nine people were injured by the explosion, which left behind traces of a binary explosive. The explosion was powerful enough to vault a heavy steel Dumpster more than 120 feet through the air ... windows shattered 400 feet from where the explosion went off, and pieces of the bomb were recovered 650 feet away. The FBI is currently putting together a program to teach First Responders the importance of identifying these types of products during our seemingly routine responses.

14 14

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 14

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 14

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Currently TFS has SOG’s regarding the responses to CBRNE (Chemical Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive Materials) events. As a crew who is dispatched as part of a CBRNE call it is very important to understand the nature of the call and the current policies when a call has be designated. In our city we have many locations in all commands that are possible targets, which make us all vulnerable. We cannot allow complacency to take over when it comes to dealing with a suspicious package. Our current SOG’s state that all three services (Police, Fire and Ems) CBRNE teams must be on scene before we enter the hot zone in the absence of any immediate danger to life or health. ONLY A TRAINED BOMB TECHNICIAN should approach

the package. So you ask “what are we as the first in crew supposed to do when the response time from the Haz may be 20-30 minutes?” This is a fair question, the ERG on pages 374-3 75 has information regarding the safe standoff distances for improvised explosive devices. We can also make sure that our apparatus are positioned at a safe distance, isolate the area and update communications. As we approach the festival season within Toronto including many events that attract visitors from around the world it is very important to stay vigilant at all times and understand that even a small seemingly harmless package can have deadly outcomes.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I R E WAT CH

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 15

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 15

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Naloxone BY MIKE THIELE, EMS COMMITTEE MEMBER

Recent Developments

Naloxone Delivery

In response to increasing numbers of fatal and nonfatal opioid poisonings in Canada, there has been a great deal of effort invested in increasing the availability of Naloxone, a drug that temporarily reverses the effects of opioids and can save lives in opioid overdose situations. One effort to increase the availability of naloxone is by encouraging or permitting accessibility and use of naloxone by first responders (e.g., paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement, etc.).

Naloxone is a drug used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdose and can save lives in overdose situations. In Canada, take-home naloxone kits commonly contain two one-ml single dose ampoules of naloxone, 0.4 mg/ml solution for intra-muscular injection.

Health Canada removed Naloxone from the Prescription Drug List. On June 24, 2016, the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) reclassified Naloxone as a Schedule II drug when used in an emergency opioid overdose situation outside of hospital settings. This change was effective immediately in Ontario. As a result, naloxone can now be kept behind the counter in Ontario pharmacies and the province’s pharmacists can now provide training on how to safely administer the drug. People at risk of an overdose (or their concerned family members or peers) will not need a prescription and will not pay anything when receiving naloxone.

496 65

CLIENTS REPORTED ADMINISTERING NALOXONE IN MOHLTC APPROVED ONTARIO ORGANIZATIONS CLIENTS REPORTED RECEIVING NALOXONE IN MOHLTC APPROVED ONTARIO ORGANIZATIONS

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 16

Another formulation is the nasal auto-injector (see inset picture) that has been recently authorized for non-prescription use by Canada’s Health Minister, Jane Philpott. An interim order by Philpott in July, 2016, allowed naloxone spray to be imported from the U.S. The nasal spray is considered easier to administer than the injectable version, especially for those who aren’t trained health-care professionals. Health Canada says the nasal spray’s manufacturer can now take the necessary steps to officially bring the product to market in Canada.

Naloxone Nasal Injector The nasal injector is now available in Canada. Until the manufacturer officially brings the product to market in Canada, the U.S-approved product, as shown, will continue to be available in Canada to avoid interruption in supply.

Pre-hospital Programs Currently only Toronto EMS PCPs and ACPs are carrying Naloxone kits, in various forms

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 16

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Pre-hospital Naloxone Program Initiatives have been taken in Ontario to increase accessibility to and use of Naloxone by providing take-home Naloxone kits through community programs. These programs also offer training to families and friends on how to best respond to an opioid overdose and how to use Naloxone most effectively. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario has recently amended its Prescribing Drugs policy to allow for physicians to prescribe Naloxone through medical directives for inclusion in opioid overdose emergency kits distributed through public health units and harm programs. In addition, Ontario has allowed a wider range of professionals, such as paramedics and first responders, to administer Naloxone. All advanced care paramedics (ACPs) are authorized under physician’s orders (medical directives) to administer Naloxone to patients who are experiencing symptoms of opioid toxicity. Naloxone is currently listed as a mandatory medication for all ACP vehicles, with a specified minimum quantity directed by Provincial Equipment Standards for Ontario Ambulance Services. In response to the increase of reported fentanyl overdose cases, pre-hospital Naloxone administration was reviewed in 2014. As a result of the review, it was decided that the scope of practice would be expanded for all Primary Care Paramedics (PCPs) to also be able to administer the medication under physician’s orders. As of February 1, 2016, Naloxone became a mandatory medication for all PCP vehicles, when a revised version of the Provincial

FIG 1 AN ASSORTMENT OF OPAS

FIG 2 SINGLE PERSON BVM VENTILATION

FIG 3 TWO PERSON BVM VENTILATION

Airway Management Review Respiratory Depression in an Opioid Overdose Respiratory depression is common in a patient experiencing an opioid overdose. For this reason, basic airway management techniques using Oropharyngeal Airways (OPAs) (Fig. 1) in association with ventilation support using a Bag Valve Mask (BVM) must be considered in all patients that are experiencing respiratory distress, including patients with suspected opioid overdoses. A thorough patient assessment, including the utilization of a TFS-issued pulse oximeter, will determine when to support the respirations of an opioid overdose patient. Regardless of Naloxone administration or nonadministration, respiratory support of the patient must be utilized when required. Bag-valve-mask (BVM) ventilation is the most important skill in basic airway management. Simple maneuvers and basic airway adjuncts can ensure a patent airway and allow for effective oxygenation and ventilation until a more definitive airway is established. BVM ventilation requires a good mask seal and a patent airway. The presence of facial hair, absence of teeth, obesity, anatomic irregularities and facial trauma are factors that can make BVM ventilation difficult. Masks come in many sizes including newborn, infant, child, and adult. Choosing the appropriate size will help to create a good seal and effective ventilation. While providing BVM ventilation, extend the patient’s head slightly using the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver. If cervical spine injury is suspected the modified jaw-thrust technique is used instead. Place an OPA to assist with ventilations. The mask should cover the nose and mouth without extending over the chin. The mask is held in place with the one-handed E-C technique (Fig. 2). Using the nondominant hand, create a C shape with the thumb and index finger over the top of the mask and apply gentle downward pressure. Hook the remaining fingers around the mandible taking care not to apply pressure to the soft tissues of the neck, and lift it upward toward the mask creating the E. Leave dentures in place to improve mask seal. The two-handed technique (Fig. 3) is preferred if a second person is available to provide ventilations. Create two opposing semicircles with the thumb and index finger of each hand to form a ring around the mask connector, and hold the mask on the patient’s face. Lift the mandible with the remaining digits. Alternatively, place both thumbs opposing the mask connector and use the thenar eminence to hold the mask to the face while lifting the mandible with the fingers.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 17

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 17

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 18

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Naloxone... Continued from page 17

Quick Facts • In 2014, over 700 people died in Ontario from opioid-related causes, a 266 per cent increase since 2002 • Suboxone is now being used to treat opioid addiction. The risk of a fatal overdose from Suboxone is significantly less than with methadone • In fall 2016, public consultations will be held with families, caregivers, academics and health care providers, and people with lived experience among others, to seek input on the strategy and to identify additional important considerations • Beginning October 1, 2016, stricter controls on the prescribing and dispensing of fentanyl patches took effect • Ontario is implementing its ﬁrst comprehensive opioid strategy to prevent opioid addiction and overdose by enhancing data collection, modernizing prescribing and dispensing practices, and connecting patients with high quality addiction treatment services

Training Training is a critical component of ensuring the effective use of Naloxone in preventing opioid overdose deaths. While training programs have been set up for the existing pre-hospital Naloxone delivery programs, it is unclear if and when this training will be made available for the Toronto Fire Service. As of this writing, Naloxone has not been approved by the Medical Director for use by Toronto Fire Service firefighters.

Basic Life Support Patient Care Standards Version 3.0 of this Standard comes into force on December 11, 2017. This Standard, and the one preceding it, outlines the treatment that is currently required by Toronto firefighters in situations involving a patient with a toxicological emergency (overdose, poisoning, and/or drug ingestion). After taking a full set of vital signs and gathering pertinent information about the patient, prepare for potential problems, including, a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i.

Cardiac arrest Airway obstruction Respiratory arrest Respiratory distress Altered or changing LOC Sudden violent behavior Hyperthermia Seizures Emesis

Naloxone Delivery Naloxone is a drug used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid overdose and can save lives in overdose situations. In Canada, take-home naloxone kits commonly contain two one-ml single dose ampoules of naloxone, 0.4 mg/ ml solution for intra-muscular injection. Another formulation is the nasal autoinjector (see inset picture) that has been recently authorized for non-prescription use by Canada’s Health Minister, Jane Philpott. An interim order by Philpott in July, 2016, allowed naloxone spray to be imported from the U.S. The nasal spray is considered easier to administer than the injectable version, especially for those who aren’t trained health-care professionals. Health Canada says the nasal spray’s manufacturer can now take the necessary steps to officially bring the product to market in Canada.

Naloxone Side Effect Considerations It should be noted that the effect of Naloxone is temporary and is not as longlasting as an opiate overdose. A patient experiencing an opioid overdosemay relapse once the effects of Naloxone wear off. Depending on the severity of the overdose, several doses of Naloxonemay be required. In all instances of Naloxone administration, the patientmust be transported to a medical facility for further assessment andmonitoring. Naloxonemay precipitate abrupt opioid withdrawal in physically dependent persons. Signs and symptoms may include body aches, fever, sweating, sneezing, yawning, nausea, vomiting, lacrimation (tears), rhinorrhea (bloody nose), cramping, insomnia, chills/hot flashes, piloerection (hair standing up/ goosebumps), tachycardia, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, tremulousness (shaking), hypertension, seizures, and cardiac arrest. The patientmay also become violent. Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 19

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 19

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

BY MARLA FRIEBE,

PD&T CAPTAIN

Roman Fireﬁghters

Pre-Service Training

The ‘Cohortes Vigilum’ was the name of ancient Rome’s first fire brigade, organized around A.D. 6. Housed in large barracks, these newest firefighters were tasked with roaming the streets of Rome during the dark of night to search out fire. Despite Roman leaders’ best efforts to control fire, the city continued to succumb to flames many times over before it completely collapsed into ruin. History confirms for us that firefighting has always been a highly dangerous career choice. The fire problems of a city become ever more challenging as building construction changes, and population, gridlock, and municipal government’s economic restraints grow. Thankfully, we have advanced on all fronts since the ancient traditions of the Cohortes Vigilu, and no longer need to roam the cities at night on foot looking for flames. Even our own newest recruit firefighters quickly learn that while the fire service is solidly built on old traditions, the job of a modern firefighter is still rapidly changing. Ask any professional firefighter and they will tell you that their career has been marked by technological obsolescence and information half- life; specifically, most firefighting technology is only good for a defined period of time, and that half of the information you collect that is relevant to your career becomes irrelevant within a very short period of time! To keep pace with this brisk change, Firefighters must be open to rapidly changing information, while mastering the necessary core competencies needed to keep our city safe protecting life, property and the environment.

Candidates interested in becoming a career firefighter typically enroll at one of the numerous Ontario Colleges in the Firefighter Pre-Service, Education, and Training programs. These programs are designed to give the student the knowledge, skills, and professional development to successfully apply for a position with a municipal fire service in Ontario. They also focus the students on internationally recognized credentials that are relevant to careers in fire suppression, IFSAC and/or Pro-Board accredited NFPA 1001 Firefighter Levels I and 2, along with an IFSAC and/or Pro-Board accredited NFPA 472. In addition to Ontario’s college programs, many candidates choose to attend universities in the U.S., such as Texas A&M University’s Firefighter Recruit Academy. Texas A&M offers a 12 week on site course followed by hands-on practical training at the Brayton Fire Training Field. Optionally, they also offer an online course, followed by a 21 day boot camp style practical training. Both courses train candidates to the IFSAC and Pro board Certification in NFPA 1001 Firefighter Levels I & II that is required, as well as Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operation. Once a candidate has undertaken their Pre-Service Education and Training, they can apply once Toronto Fire Services determines there is a need to fill vacant positions. For more information you can visit the City of Toronto Website at toronto.ca/fire

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 20

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 20

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Toronto Fireﬁghter Recruits When a potential new recruit gets that final email from the City of Toronto that they have received a conditional job offer with the city, most indicate that they have never been so elated in their entire life. “It was a dream come true,” or “I wasn’t even sure how I was going to pay my next month’s rent,” are common responses when they are asked how they felt. For each new member of Toronto Fire Services it has certainly been a long and arduous journey that began with completing their Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program, and bringing with them extensive experience as a volunteer/fulltime firefighter or paramedic, or having completed an education within a specific trade or university discipline. As satisfying as it is to receive that final job offer, Toronto Recruits now attend a ten week induction program facilitated by Professional Development and Training Staff at the Toronto Fire and EMS Training Centre on Eastern Avenue. Classes can range in size, but typically accommodate 40 or more recruits. When recruits show up on their first day of employment, they have a slightly shell-shocked look about them, which usually lasts for the next few weeks. They are then assigned to one of four platoons, and remain in these platoons for the duration of their time in training. Class times typically begin at 0830 hours sharp, and end at 1700 hours five days a week – and for the next ten weeks the recruit is immersed in the culture and training required to become a member of one of Toronto’s most respected professions, that of a career Firefighter.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 21

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 21

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 22

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

A Long Road to Become a Toronto Firefighter... Continued from page 21

Schedule at the Fire Academy Recruits begin their first week at the Toronto Fire and EMS Training Centre Academy with an introduction to the structure of our department, including NFPA Standards, TFS Standard Operating Guidelines, relevant Training Notes and various online courses that have been loaded into their ELI training. After receiving their own set of PPE and training specific to health and safety, wellness, and fire behaviour, recruits are then ready for fire ground training. Personal Protective Equipment, SCBA, ladders, water supply, hose streams, PAL Pac, search and rescue, forcible entry, vehicle extrication and ventilation are just a few of the key areas that are focused on, leading the recruit confidently into live fire training. An introduction to Firefighter Survival Training at the Bermondsey Training facility is also integrated, with an awareness level provided for structural collapse, as well as land, water, and trench rescue. Medical training is a major component within the Recruit schedule. EMS Instructors spend two weeks with the recruits, focusing on basic and advanced medical skills that will prepare new Firefighters for rigorous involvement in Firefighter Prehospital Care. Classroom presentations, along with practical scenarios help to hone their skills in primary, secondary, and vitals assessments, airway and oxygen management, medically delegated acts (AED, EPI Pens, Pulse Oximeters), musculoskeletal and spinal injuries, obstetrics and newborn/pediatric resuscitation, and much more. Rigorous daily testing becomes a ‘favourite’ pastime with the recruits, which culminates in an exam at the end of their two week training period.

At the beginning and end of each day, recruits are provided with time in the computer lab to complete their ELI training, which includes a wide range of topics that are necessary for the recruit to successfully and competently complete their training. The fitness room has a variety of different cardio based machines, spin bicycles, and dumbbells also was enhanced with new equipment in 2016, which is available for recruits to use prior to the start of class, or after their day has ended.

The final portion of training at the Academy is typically comprised of Live Fire training exercises, designed to give the recruit an opportunity to use their previous weeks of skills training in simulated live fire scenarios. Assigned to various apparatus, crews of recruits accompanied by instructors respond to residential low rise fire incidents at either the West Training facility (Martingrove Rd.) or East Training facility (Sheppard Ave.). The emphasis during these scenarios is on radio communications, teamwork, interaction, and initiative, competent use of personal protective equipment and SCBA, and adhering to safety requirements.

Near the latter end of training, the recruits meet with Local 3888 President Frank Ramagnano and Executive Members, have an opportunity to learn about our Local’s history and current issues, and are then sworn in as official Local 3888 members. In addition, Recruits join in the battle to help fund Muscular Dystrophy Canada by participating in an annual Boot Drive while still in training. Recruits are situated in groups throughout the downtown core with fire boots, and collect donations from the public towards MD.

Upon successful completion of the final exam and performance evaluation, recruits graduate from the recruit induction program at a ceremony attended by the Fire Chief, City of Toronto Mayor, Ontario Fire Marshal, members of Toronto Council, TFS Senior Management, and a variety of community representatives. At this point the recruits are promoted to fourth class firefighters and assigned to the field as Probationary Firefighters for the balance of their first year of employment with the City of Toronto. Assigned to various stations around the city and under the supervision of their new Company Officer, they will be expected to apply their skills and training and to continue to learn. The induction phase of their career is now complete, and the opportunity to serve the community as a full Toronto Firefighter has been achieved. Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 23

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 23

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Here we go again! On November 26, 2016 the sound of laughter and joy started to fill Variety Village when the holiday festivities for Local 3888 members and families got under way. The annual Toronto Professional Firefighters Association Christmas Party was back! This year we had over 950 children attend. The event had some old favourite entertainment, as well as some new and exciting features to try for all ages. When the doors opened and the young party-goers entered, the Christmas Wonderland of excitement was everywhere; the grins were ear to ear. Then it happened! The Toronto Fire Fighters Pipes & Drums led Santa & Mrs. Claus into the party. They were ushered to Santa’s house, to greet the children and listen to their wish lists. There were many special requests from all the children ranging from a real puppy, to a baby brother, to inviting Mrs. Claus to dinner! Each child was photographed on Santa’s knee or with Mrs. Claus and given their picture to take home as their 2016 memory. You could smell and hear the popcorn popping, the cotton candy spinning, the slushy machine crunching the ice and the heavy footsteps of all the kids racing over for the treats. There was no limit to the number of different bouncers, bike racers for the little tykes and basketball and hockey games to win a small prize. For the older ones, there was rock climbing and Nascar Bob’s speedway! No time to rest, onto the clown making balloon animals for the kids and to center-floor: the juggler had all the kids mesmerized by juggling glasses with water in them and balancing swords; watching with amazement, the children clapped for more. To help with a room full of imaginative children, we had a great activity centre. That is where you could paint your own Christmas ornament, colour Santa pictures or make something special with all the craft items available. There were over 900 Gingerbread cookies, just

BY MIKE RUSSELL, CAPTAIN, STATION 146-C CHAIR, ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 24

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 24

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

waiting to be decorated with coloured icing, sprinkles, and candies; the children were licking more icing than they were putting on the cookies. It was priceless. There were also the face painting, tattoo bar and spray-colour-your-hair sections. There were little ones running around with streaks of red, purple and green in their hair to add to the Christmas spirit. Right in the middle was a very tall, colourful machine: Sugar Mountain! With over 20 different flavours to choose from and a giant straw to fill, there were endless options to treat yourself with your favourite flavours. The children enjoyed the various mascots walking around and taking photos with their favourites. Sparky, Sponge Bob, Elsa and Olaf from “Frozen”, a snowman and a minion from “Despicable Me”. This year we introduced the PhotoBooth, which was a huge success. Appealing to everyone including the adults, the opportunity to dress up with funny hats, crazy moustaches, funky sun glasses and masks was taken advantage of all day. Everyone got a 3-picture photo strip to take home with them. Lunch was available to all guests. On offer were pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, pasta, fresh french fries, water, juice, granola bars, chips, crackers, Rice Krispy bars, and many more options. And to re-charge the adults, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and a “Dad’s’ cookie. The children were asked to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to the Toronto Firefighter Toy Drive. Upon their donation, they were entered into a draw to win a Play Sation. All the toys collected were given to children in need during the holiday season. Before leaving, each child received an age-appropriate gift to unwrap and enjoy. The Honourable Mayor John Tory made an appearance and assisted the President of Local 3888 Frank Ramagnano to present a cheque to Variety Village for $35,000.00. A party of this magnitude could not be held without the many volunteers. This year we had over 150 students, friends, counsellors, family members and Venturers that spent the day making it special for all the children. Lastly, thank you to the Entertainment Committee, board members, staff and spouses that helped make the event another huge success. Until next year!

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 25

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 25

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

BY KEN DE JONG, ACTING CAPTAIN, STATION 445-A

“Roll the Heavy” is a series of articles to inform members of the capabilities, equipment and limitations of the Heavy Rescue Squads. By sharing this informati on, we can better serve the citizens by fostering a professional, team approach. This will improve the chances of a successful outcome in the many complicated and technical emergencies that we respond to.

The Toys The ropes, harnesses, PPE and hardware (carabiners, pulleys, etc.) have remained at a high-quality level for many years. One particularly interesting piece of rope is the RESCOM Rope System. It has communication lines included in the rope structure. By connecting a headset and power supply to each end, the Rescuer and Rescue Sector Officer can communicate hands-free. This is primarily used for Confined Space Rescue, but can be very useful when the high-angle Rescuer is out of view. Recently, Special Operations has purchased some impressive equipment to complement the cache. The Arizona Vortex is an extremely versatile AHD (Artificial High Directional) system that allows the ropes to be re-directed in many ways. It can act as a tripod (also good for confined space), bi-pod (in tight or uneven ground) and even a mono-pod (as part of a highline or other rope system). The lengths of the legs are adjustable and the configurations are endless. The system can even be turned sideways against an elevator shaft opening (with proper securing methods) to facilitate an anchor point to rappel down the shaft. Another versatile tool is the AZTEK (Arizona Technician’s Edge Kit). It is a 50-foot length of rope with one end having a pre-built edge protection system for fall prevention and the other end having a compact mechanical advantage system. This is all in a bag that can be worn on a belt or off a harness. Its small size and strength allow it to be put into action in many ways. The system is used worldwide and was originally developed by Reed Thorne (a guru in the rope rescue industry). It offers more than 100 rigging solutions in a single bag and will be a huge benefit to the speed and safety of the TFS Rope Program.

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 26

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 26

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

High Angle Rescue In a big-city environment, there can be many emergency events that involve heights. The Toronto Fire Service provides technical rescue response for “high-angle” and “lowangle” emergencies through the 5 Heavy Rescue Squads and P223 and P225 (a.k.a. the “Bluff Trucks”). Training is developed and presented to these crews through the Special Operations Training Division and the Shift Training Instructor program.

The Challenge The dangers are obvious. Gravity is completely unforgiving and one mistake or uncontrolled action could be fatal. Damage to the ropes, improper technique and even un-tethered equipment or debris that falls could result in serious injury or death to the rescuer and/or victim. Crews must work as a team and keep safety as the number one goal throughout the rescue. Another challenge is to build a rope system that is both fast and safe. This may have to occur during adverse weather conditions or among damaged or collapsed construction or swing-stage equipment. While the victim will be motivated to assist themselves in the rescue, their survival instincts may cause them to act irrationally. The rescuers must calm the victim and direct them through every step of the process. Over 20 rescues were performed by TFS last summer alone at the Bluffs. Other high-angle and low angle rescue scenarios include: • Workers at height with equipment failures or medical issues (window washers, construction workers, arborists) • Hikers and sightseers that stumble or venture too far around unprotected inclines • People contemplating suicide from a height • Elevator shaft rescues • Vehicle accidents where the vehicle(s) leave the road and travel down inclines The technical rescue crew in Winnipeg, Manitoba gets dispatched to all high-rise fires in case of rescue needs. Rappelling in full turn-out gear and SCBA and confronting updrafts of heat and smoke would be an added challenge indeed! Another unique challenge for us in Toronto is the CN Tower. While the iconic attraction has reduced its risk by enclosing their window washers in a caged structure, there are still chances of rescue needs. To facilitate a rescue, extra-long ropes and specialized equipment are stored on site and familiarization training is coordinated to ensure crews are prepared for a response.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 27

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 27

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Roll The Heavy...Continued from page 27

The Approach Since safety is first and foremost, all of our systems are designed so that the failure of any individual piece will not cause a catastrophic event for the rescuer and/or victim. This usually means that there is redundancy in all aspects of the system. Two ropes, two descending devices, etc. The majority of rescue scenarios fall into the “top-down” category where the crew starts above the victim and either lowers a rescuer or a rescuer rappels down to the victim. In these cases, a secure anchor system must be established. Despite the redundancy mentioned above, if an anchor is assessed to be “bomb-proof”, a single anchor point can be used (with multiple connection points). The operational system (rappelling, lowering, hauling) is accomplished with the latest technology in rope rescue. Mechanical devices, such as the MPD (Multi-Purpose Descender) and ID’L (Industrial Descender Large), allow us to control the rope movement throughout the rescue and convert to a hauling system with some quick and simple additions of equipment. These devices pass “the whistle test” which means that if an operator were to let go of the system, the device would lock the rope immediately. This is important as we can’t plan for every situation and must be assured that the person at the end of the rope is completely safe from unknown influences. At the end of the rope, we have a number of options. During the initial assessment phase, we have a rescuer make their way to the victim as quickly as possible. This is known as the “Recon”. They take enough equipment to stabilise (and possibly rescue) the victim. If injuries need to be dealt with, or there are complications to mitigate, a “Rescue” team with additional resources is lowered to the victim. Finally, if the victim is injured and needs advanced immobilization, an “International Basket” is lowered with an Attendant. Depending on the complexity of the rescue, all three of these options may be used together to get the patient safety to the ground. In additional to the “top-down” scenarios, there are other situations that are handled a little differently. A “bottom-up” rescue has the anchor on the ground and a re-direct up high. A crane operator or an arborist with a medical problem would be a good example of this challenging situation. The ability to ascend a rope or climb a structure safely is important to reach and assess the victim. An even more challenging situation would be a “high-line”. This is where the rescuer traverses on a pair of horizontal ropes over an open expanse and then rappels down into the scene to effect the rescue. A possible scenario for this may be a large construction zone failure where two high buildings on either side could provide suitable anchors.

What Else to Know This topic of rescue is governed by NFPA 1As with most of the technical rescue disciplines, the first-in crews make all the difference in how the rescue is organized. The initial goals are typically the same no matter what the situation is: secure the scene, gather as much information as possible and confirm that the proper resources are en route. Especially with high-angle rescue, it is important for first-in crews to resist an ill-equipped rescue attempt. It is against department policy to use utility rope for rescue and it is unsafe to attempt a rescue without the proper equipment or training. Besides the above benchmarks, establishing verbal contact with the victim and keeping them calm is the primary goal until the teams can build proper and safe systems. As with many TFS programs, the rope program is continually being reviewed and improved to incorporate the best equipment and techniques and to meet all of the challenges facing us in the city. In the meantime, we train to be sure we offer the best chances of a positive outcome for the citizens we serve. Until next time – stay safe and we’ll see you on the pile.

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 28

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 28

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

BY SEAN FORREST, TORONTO FIRE FIGHTER, STATION 324-B Firefighting is a great profession. Our co-workers are often our friends and our workplace is like a second home. For all of our members this sense of family is important, including our staff who belong to the LGBTQ community. Our family motto is Courage, Compassion, Service, and we do an excellent job looking after the diverse Toronto community, regardless of its religion, race or sexual orientation. However, do we extend this compassion to our LGBTQ members, or to staff who have family and friends be-longing to this community? The TFS Positive Space Committee wants to ensure the LGBTQ community feels at home in the Toronto Fire family. Relationships within the LGBTQ community are no different from those outside of it. There are ups and downs, challenges, successes, grief, joy and love. Life is better when you have friends and coworkers who help you get through the tough times and celebrate the good times together. There is no single strategy to reach this objective. However, there are a number of goals the committee has over the next 36 months. Some are specific to the LGBTQ community, others will increase communication and conflict resolution capabilities across TFS, which will have a direct benefit to everyone. In the short term we intend to focus on the following areas: Our first challenge will be information gathering. It would be greatly appreciated, if staff could complete the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Count Yourself Inâ&#x20AC;? survey. There is an icon for completing the survey on all TFS station/office desk top computers. The survey is very short and can be completed in less than a minute. It will give the committee a good starting point to work from. Secondly, we are providing contact information, so the LGBTQ community can reach us and we can be identified on the job with a distinctive insignia. These are early days, but we hope to ac-complish a great deal, which will benefit the LGBTQ community and the entire TFS family. Respectfully the Positive Space Committee

Craig Dart Jackie Preston Colin Giffin James Green Mike Ancio Sean Forrest Alivia Walker

Craig.Dart@toronto.ca Jackie.Preston@toronto.ca Colin.Giffin@toronto.ca James.Green@toronto.ca Michael.Ancio@toronto.ca Sean.Forrest@toronto.ca Alivia.Walker@toronto.ca

416.529.2373 647.459.7464 905.391.1447 705.321.6619 416.575.0881 416.466.6012 905.484.4318

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I R E WAT CH

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 29

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 29

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Member Profile on K BY TONY MACDONALD, RETIRED TORONTO FIRE CAPTAIN

ike so many us, Ken de Jong found his way to firefighting after a few other choices. He grew up in Parry Sound, helping his Dad in the electrical and plumbing industry, and also worked as a lifeguard for a summer. Ken went to the University of Toronto and in 1991 he grad-uated with a Mechanical Engineering degree. He returned to Parry Sound to work a few different jobs in the waste management field, but quickly realised that an office job was not fulfilling his life. The Fire Chief from the Foley Township volunteer fire department ate his lunch in the same office Ken was in and he said that they were always looking for help. Ken started with the volunteers and was immediately hooked. “Every Wednesday night we would practise and then I spent the next six days looking forward to the next training session. Every call over the pager was a chance to help people in need. The Township maintained a re-gional rescue vehicle that serviced the treacherous section of Highway 69 from Mactier to Britt. I learned a lot from the veteran firefighters about auto extrication and it serves me well now at TFS.” “One day a number of firefighters were talking about their weekend plans and one said he was travelling to North Bay to write ‘The Test’. I asked him what it was for and he said for the Fire Department. It was then that it hit me that I could actually do this as a career. I had eye surgery to fix my vision and then I started applying.” One day, Ken received a phone call from a lady from the City of York asking him to come in for a physical test. He replied that he had already done the physical test. She corrected herself and said that it was the medical test he needed to take. He replied that that was a test for people who were being hired. She said “Oh, didn’t I mention that? Yes, you are being offered a position as a firefighter”. Ken says “I almost lost my mind!” After passing all

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 30

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 30

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

n Ken De Jong

PTAIN

the tests, Ken was hired by the York Fire Department in May of 1994. “It felt like I won the job lottery!” After completing his training, Ken was posted to 421 on C Platoon and was well-trained and -cared for. Of particular note were Captain Peter Hayes and Acting Captain Ron Barben. “I remember making lots of rookie mistakes, and having mentors like these men made all the differ-ence in building my confidence.” It wasn’t long before he was attracted to the heavy rescue that ran out of the station. Soon, Ken was invited to join York’s auto extrication team. “With leadership from people like Dan Ramsay and Neil Wootton, the team had a strong reputation at the competitions.” They competed locally in Ontario, and also in Vancouver and Chicago. In his final year on the team, everyone else re-tired! So Ken stepped forward to lead the team,

and he recruited others to join. “Imagine having only 5 years on the job and getting to pretend to be a Captain! It was a steep learning curve, but with a very skilled crew we won the Eastern Canadian Competition in Halifax!” After amalgamation, York’s Heavy Rescue was sent to 442 to make room for AL421. Ken was assigned to S442 and spent the next year there. When the truck was decommissioned, he moved to 445. In 2013 he was designated as an Acting Captain and, after a few months away from 445, he returned there on A shift. “I am blessed with a knowledgeable and experienced crew and that makes supervising a joy.” Ken’s love of the Technical Rescue disciplines led him to become an STI in Tools, Rope, RIT and Vent Saw. He was also felt fortunate to be selected for the HUSAR team which opened up a whole new world of learning. He continually seeks new education in the fire service to try and prepare himself for those challenging calls. One such call came early in his Acting Captain role. A worker had been trapped and buried in a trench collapse. Ken was the Rescue Sector Officer and needed to put all of the trench rescue components in place. Working as a team with his own crew, other Squad crews, the support

crews, paramedics, senior officers and even the MOL was a challenge. The worker ended up succumbing to his injuries, but the professionalism and discipline shown that day has helped set a solid base for Ken’s approach to the job. “An additional benefit to the transfer to 445 A shift was that a number of my crew members there take an annual trip to the New River Gorge in West Virginia for ‘Bridge Day’. I was invit-ed to join the team! One day a year in October, the State of West Virginia closes the bridge that stands 876 feet above the river, and they allow teams to rappel from the bridge. I have been do-ing this with them for 4 years now and enjoy the rappelling, as well as the travel companions. A London, Ontario firefighter I met there, is planning to take a team to Yosemite National Park in California to rappel down “El Capitan”. This is a 3,000-foot rappel which requires special equipment and training. I hope to be part of this exciting experience.” Ken enjoys running to stay in shape. Back in 2000 he decided to run in a marathon. He chose the Marine

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 31

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 31

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Member Profile...Continued from page 31

Corps marathon in Washington D.C. The IAFF held 100 spots for firefighters across North America and acquiring on of them required raising money for the International Burn Foundation. Ken realized that he didn’t know anything about Burn Centres in Ontario. When he returned home he started to research this. He found that Camp BUCKO (BUCKO is an acronym coming from BUrn Camp for Kids in Ontario) was changing locations from Camp Hollyburn in Rosseau to the Kinark Outdoor Centre near Minden. This change required more volunteers to supervise the kids in the cabins. Ken says “The timing was perfect for me to volunteer. The ex-perience really changed my life. I thought I was going there to give of myself, but I really got way more back from the kids, seeing their strength and determination. The kids received trauma from their burns, but then had to endure the initial painful treatment in the burn unit, then the on-going treatment and surgeries that came next. Most of them also had to endure bullying and teas-ing due to their scars. They proved to be much stronger, mentally, than I will ever be!” Ken met many dedicated volunteers along the way. They bring their A game to make sure these kids feel like rock stars in a safe, supportive and fun environment for the week. He has made life-long

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 32

friendships with some of them. The Camp Director, the late Nancy Sinclair was a huge in-fluence on Ken, and because of her, he became the Program Coordinator in 2009. “Those years were probably the most fun because I got to use my imagination to create themed activities. I al-so got to see that involving the other volunteers in the planning, brought them to a higher level. The kids benefitted from it, and we had the times of our lives presenting the program.” In 2013 the Camp moved again to Camp Kodiak, in McKellar. The program structure there didn’t require a Program

Coordinator. This, and the fact that he had been involved for 10 years present-ed a good time to retire from Camp BUCKO. “My kids were also into their early teens and it was a good time for me to focus my energy on them before they grew up and left the nest.” At a burn conference, Ken met Lionel Crowther of the Winnipeg Fire Department. Lionel had survived some serious burns in the 2007 Winnipeg fire that tragically took the lives of Captains Harold Lessard and Thomas Nichols. The two of them hit it off and Lionel invited Ken to his cabin, north of Winnipeg. That community also hosted a yearly triathlon. Ken was able to organize a road trip with his son Ryan, and they entered the triathlon. On the way there, on one of the warmest days in August, they swam in Lake Superior, only to find the water bone-chillingly cold. They raced the triathlon with no wetsuits, heavy mountain bikes, and no training. “It was a bonding moment that we remember to this day”. To break up the drive, they collected selfies in front of big roadside attractions like the Big Nickel in Sudbury, and the Goose in Wawa. These selfies became a thing, and they have continued the theme on subsequent family trips. They now have over 45 selfies. Ken’s daughter Sydney has joined them on all of the trips since Winnipeg,

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 32

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

and his wife Stacey comes when she can get the time off work. Over the course of these trips, they have swum in all of the Great Lakes. “Lake Michigan was the best because the waves were so big that we could body surf! On these trips, we didn’t bring plates or any food (other than munchies for the car). We would hit camp in the late afternoon, go for a swim or bike ride, go to a local family restau-rant for dinner, have breakfast at a Timmie’s or a diner, and have lunch on the road somewhere. Yes, it’s “glamping”, but it was a vacation for me as much as the kids!” Their goal is to visit, camp, and race in every province and territory in Canada. Ken and Ryan are planning to do some hiking-style camping to experience nature in a new way together. Ken wanted to participate in some longer triathlons. He was inspired by Captains Mark Manner-ing 341 C, and Dave Camley 445B. The longer races need a good road bike, so he researched his options. With the help of biking gurus Firefighters Matt Drenters 445 A, and Carl Ing 432 A, he bought a good road bike and started to train. Last summer he participated in 2 half-Ironman’s and some shorter triathlons with his son, taking his parents’ camper. “It is awesome to spend that kind of time together.” Over the years, Ken and his family have competed in obstacle-type mud races such as Spartan Race, Warrior Dash, Gut Buster and Foam Fest. He has also done the Tough Mudder with the late Firefighter Sara Rosen 443C, Prison Break with Firefighter Scott Boisvert 435A, Bad-Ass Dash with Firefighter Glenn Williams 142A, and numerous Sprint Triathlons around Ontario. This summer, Ken and his son will be entering the Rugged Maniac mud race. Ken has also regis-tered for a half Ironman in Syracuse, NY and the full Ironman in Mont Tremblant, Quebec. It involves a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike race, then a full marathon 42 km run. “It is a little daunting, but I trust and enjoy the training.” There is a Legacy Program at Ironman. If you do 12 Ironman competitions, you

can apply for a coveted spot in the World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. There are 12 Ironman’s in North America, so Ken hopes to do them all, then be selected to go to Kona. Ken had heard great things about the World Police and Fire Games, so he decided to compete in New York City in 2013. He chose the stair climb event but arrived in New York to find the event cancelled due to the incoming Hurricane Irene! He was travelling with D/C Tim Deakin and Acting Captain Rob Gutray from 445 C. “Rob’s Dragonboat event was also cancelled, so we left New York as fast as we could to avoid the storm”. In 2015 Ken went to Fairfax, Virginia to compete at orienteering. Orienteering is a combination of trail running and hunting for checkpoints with a map and compass. “Being new to the sport, I did my best and finished the course. You succeed at Orienteering by minimizing your mistakes. I made one huge mistake that took me the same amount of time to find the checkpoint that the winner spent completing the whole course! I still had fun, though.” Like most of us, Ken continues to

challenge himself to balance his activities with his family life and work. If you ask him how it’s going, he’ll probably answer with “I’m living the dream!” Many people chuckle at this, but there’s a lot of truth to his reply. Ken says “Am I busy? Yes, but my favourite line in a movie is from ‘Shawshank Redemption’. Andy tells Red that life comes down to a simple choice get busy living or get busy dying.” I think we know which choice Ken has made.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 33

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 33

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

STATION 442 BY BERNICE HALSBAND, TORONTO FIRE FIGHTER, STATION 343-C

’m always a little amazed when I have to drive from one end of the city to the other. My awe stems from the amount of time it takes to span the streets of our border with Pickering to the east to Mississauga in the west. Usually when I think of Toronto the images that pop into my head are that of downtown. The CN Tower, the SkyDome, financial district, Roy Thompson Hall, Eaton Centre etc. When you stop to think that the borders we cover as a fire service actually span from roughly west of Altona Road in Pickering, where the Rouge River winds its way through the Rouge Valley, to Hwy 427, it’s mind boggling that we cover almost 6,000 sq.km as a Fire Service. As I drove to station 442 from Leslieville one Thursday to sit down with the D Shift my chosen route could not have given me a better sampling of the neighbourhoods we serve. From Leslieville, in 326’s area, I drove through 324 and 325’s area through to the DVP, all the way to Lawrence and through 13 District. Passing through Leslieville, Riverdale, Playter Estates, East York, Thorncliffe, Flemingdon, Yonge and Lawrence, Bridlepath and Glen Park with their variations in demographics, average income, property size, geography etc. make you realize how differently we all live. The 45 minute drive takes me past roughly six or seven stations, more if you count the ones further away that serve the areas I’m driving through.

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 34

Just driving across Lawrence from the Bridle Path into 442’s area is a reality check. From 33,000sq.ft. single family homes to 700 sq.ft. TCHC apartments stacked like sardine cans that contain anything you can think of, Toronto is in tune of the zeitgeist of the world where the divide between rich and poor is startling and obvious. From a solid middle class mind the question begs of both extremes: Who lives here, and what do they do?? As firefighters we are the few that get answers to that question as we have access to the homes of the people of Toronto that few others do. And even though every incident or call is run with the same professionalism and willingness to help, one wonders about the stories of the lives that we endeavour to save, help and protect.

WESTON It’s always easier to write a station article about stations I have actually worked at. Guys tend to be more open and forthcoming about experiences and calls they’ve run and as I sat down with the D Shift I had worked a day with a few months earlier the stories are keeping me equal parts entertained and slightly surprised. One is the sheer volume of calls this hall runs; over 3,000 this year. Not bad for a single truck hall. One thing Ryan Grech tells me, a 5-year veteran of the hall, makes

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 34

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

me doubtful. He says that Weston is one of the oldest communities in Toronto, dating all the way back to the late 1700’s. I know early settlements in Toronto date back to around then, but I always assumed they would all be centered on the downtown core where shipping and trade was easily accessible by Lake Ontario. It all starts with the ubiquitous founder of most things to do with Ontario, John Graves Simcoe. When he sent his surveyors all over the province in the late 18th century one of his surveyors felt the position of the land was well suited for timber business and promptly constructed a saw mill. Soon enough more mills were built. Considering the upstream location from York (now Toronto) it would have been convenient to ship the logs down the Humber River. The first sawmill was built in 1792, a year later the Town of York was founded and in 1796 Weston was founded and renamed from ‘The Humber. It was named by one of the local mill owners, James Farr, for his birthplace in Herfordshire, England. Until 1850 Weston prospered on both sides of the Humber River, but a flood left the town destroyed and only the east side of the river continued to prosper thereafter, especially with the Grand Trunk Railway building a stop in Weston in 1856. A different kind of railway ended in York Village as well as many former slaves that fled the United States ended up in York. Unlike other neighbourhoods far removed from the bustle of the downtown core, Weston’s development seems to be intertwined with that of York, which by 1856 was already renamed Toronto. By 1881 Weston had been incorporated into a village and remained that way until it was incorporated into the Borough of York in 1967.

YORK FIRE DEPARTMENT When the York Fire Department was amalgamated into the City of Toronto in 1998 it brought with it four ‘new’ fire stations: York Station 1 at Oakwood and Eglington, now station 341, Station 2 at 6 Lambton (Weston and Black Creek) now Station 421, Station 3 at Jane and Dundas, now Station 422 at and Station 4 at Jane and Lawrence, now station 442. The last station was built in 1992 and housed York Fire Department Headquarters, a mechanical division and a Pumper. A mechanical division is no surprise as the bay is big enough to hold several apparatus. I remember dropping off one of the new chief’s vans a few years ago at 442 in order to get the new decals put on.

DEMOGRAPHICS Talking to the crew reveals a familiar conversation. It’s like talking to the guys from 146 and 415 all over again. And no surprise they list 146 as one of the halls they run with the most since they are just down the street. A look at the demographics confirms the population density at over 7,000 inhabitants per square kilometre, compared to the neighbourhood 20 minutes to the east in the Bridle Path-Sunnybrook-York Mills area, which sits at a comfortable 900 people per square kilometre. I barely get my hellos out of the way before they are called away to a VSA. While they are gone I have a chance to look around. It is a big hall, even by Toronto standards. At over 15,000sq ft. it is just slightly bigger than Station 231 (approx. 13,000sq.ft.) in East Command and slightly smaller than Adelaide (approx. 20,000 sq.ft.) in South Command. It has a Division Commander, Radio Communications and Fire Prevention upstairs even though the crew doesn’t see the Commander regularly. The call the crew went on came in as a medical call but after an hour of waiting something tells me they’ve either been called again on the air or they are at a VSA. Sure enough as they file in they confirm the latter.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 35

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 35

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 36

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Station 442...Continued from page 35

As they sit around the table we have a short catch up session and I get right into it. I ask them to tell me about some of the calls they’ve run and stories start pouring out in a maelstrom. I try taking notes as quickly as I can but as soon as I have a few lines written about one call, a new incident comes up. Not a surprise with that many runs in this neighbourhood these guys would have seen quite a bit, even though Chris Bailey has a few years on and Ryan Grech a few more. Their recently promoted Acting Captain Grant Bowler comes from a well seasoned hall in Parkdale (426) that deals with their fair share of fires, violence, drugs and death. Chris recalls, somewhat dismayed, the fire in the heroin den where he crawled through some substantial debris, only to realize later that the unit was strewn with hundreds of needles, some ‘ready to go’, loaded up with drugs and carefully teetering on the coffee table. He remembers checking his gear for puncture marks but luckily didn’t find any evidence of having been pricked. Some details are a little fuzzy and some calls bleed into others or the crew member in question wasn’t around for the incident being recalled, but with a few keywords and key dates it’s not a problem to recall the incidents from local news sources later.

THE PIZZA PIZZA SHOOTING On October 16, 2016, seventeen year old Jarryl Hagley was shot repeatedly in a ‘planned and deliberate’ attack whilst eating pizza with friends at the Weston Road eatery. The article in the Toronto Star reads like too many others of its kind. Relatives say he was at the wrong place at the wrong time and that he was a kind boy who tried to help everyone. It’s a sad reality for kids and teens growing up in poor urban settings.

THE STAIRWELL SHOOTING Twenty-two year old Kareem Hastings was shot and left to bleed out in a stairwell at 2089 Lawrence for 15 hours before a 911 call was made for a ‘medical’ complaint. The crew found him lying in a coagulated and sticky mess of his own blood. They suspect that the tenants of that building are too afraid or unwilling to call the police, and so at the time of the shooting a phone call was placed to the landlord.

MVCs and FIRES It’s not all shootings and stabbings for 442. The hall sees a fair share of fires and MVC’s. They run the 401 almost to the 409 and Black Creek as it turns into the 400. One of these deadly crashes on the 400 at Black Creek and 401 saw vehicles completely unrecognizable as three adults and one child were pronounced dead on scene after a car drove into the back of a transport truck. The last fire the D Shift recalls was with Mike Decker at the helm. “We had to tell people to leave the restaurant because they kept eating,” Ryan recalls. The fire broke out in the kitchen of a Thai restaurant. Apparently the food was too good to let a fire interrupt the meal. We sit and talk about Mike, the former ‘Scarorough guy’ who at just 60 years old passed away suddenly in a snowmobile crash a few weeks ago. The crew has taken his bunker gear tail tag and placed it temporarily where his plaque will hang. It’s a makeshift tribute, but in a way also a typical firefighter commemoration and in my opinion much sweeter; pushpins notwithstanding. Mike had been a few months away from retirement at the time of his passing. After experiencing a shift at 442 myself and talking to the guys on D I realize it wouldn’t be a bad place to work with the volume and types of calls!

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 37

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 37

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 38

2017-06-12 11:16 AM

Sleep Deprivation By Cary Stather

Do you remember the last time you had a restful night sleep? I imagine it may have been awhile

ago, so much so you may not even recall the last time you had a really good night sleep. A restful night’s sleep matters both in quantity and quality and for firefighters, it’s much more likely to be on the irregular side of the spectrum! Not having enough sleep is also known as sleep deprivation.

While quantity (hours of sleep) is important, so is quality (uninterrupted sleep). Having uninterrupted sleep is vital to restore body and mind functions. This occurs during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and is when we dream, breathe slow and deep and are in the most relaxed part of the sleep cycle. Encountering call after call and call volume during the 24 hour shift and often only with a day or two off between shifts, leads to cumulative poor sleep and wreaks havoc physiologically and therefore, impacts the sleep cycle. Two researchers by the names Rucas and

Miller found that sleep-deprived firefighters became more impulsive with their decision-making, and they also found indications that more impulsive people have more accidents. A solution to improve restful sleep is vacation. However, when vacation is not possible, a time when the sleep cycle may be impacted in a positive way is when catch up is (more) possible, so when sleeping in own bed and during longer stretches of 5+ days off. No matter what, disruption in the sleep cycle is constant in a firefighter’s career.

TORONTO FIRE SERVICES EAP/CIS NEWSLETTER - Volume 12 Issue 3 Fire Watch Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 39

1 2017-06-12 11:17 AM

Diet and Supplements

Mental Health

Health Lifestyle

Exercise

Restorative Sleep

As a result of sleep disruption, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle through and around the 24 hour shift. A healthy lifestyle includes a good diet combined with exercise, sleep restoration and positive mental health (see diagram). Firefighters simply don’t get enough sleep, and more specifically quality sleep. Many of our firefighters suffer from sleep deprivation, which can lead to injury on the fireground and even long term illness. It is recommended that a normal adult get 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Shift Workers, like Firefighters, get far less than this. The chances of technical errors increase after 16 hours without sleep. When firefighters respond to incidents 21 hours into their shift, their cognitive abilities become impaired and they can have difficulty functioning at 100% in life threatening situations. After long shifts like these, members may also have additional fatigue when driving home or completing long commutes. Managing our health and safety on the TFS is im-

2 Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 40

perative. Chronic and ongoing lack of sleep has been linked to musculoskeletal issues, weight gain, heart disease, cancer, and behaviour health issues. Firefighters also have a higher risk of contracting a cold or flu virus because of the excessive strain put on our immune system due to exhaustive shifts. There is a misconception that our sleep/circadian rhythm will naturally reset itself just by getting one good night’s sleep. In fact, it can take an entire week to correct one restless night of sleep at the fire hall. This circadian rhythm is based heavy on light to maintain normal function. It falls into the same sleep disorder category as jet lag. This disorder involves a problem with our body’s 24 hour clock. Light and dark help our body know when day and night are. At night when we are working, our body makes less melatonin than our body needs. Melatonin is a hormone that helps control sleep and waking cycles. It plays an important role on our immune system, and helps prevent illnesses like cancer. Researchers also found that our calorie burning abilities slowed down after a 24 hour shift.

TORONTO FIRE SERVICES EAP/CIS NEWSLETTER - Volume 12 Issue 3 Fire Watch 2 2017-06-12 11:17 AM

There are some very good recommendations to battle firefighters sleep fatigue including:

• Avoiding alcohol or caffeine in the hours leading up to sleep.

• Trying to get 5-6 hours of sleep immediately after a shift ends

• Ask family members not to wake you during sleeps or naps

• Making sure, when settling to go to sleep that the room is a comfortable temperature and that your electronics are parked away

• A Dietary supplement of Melatonin to help improve your sleep - It is available over the counter at most pharmacies

• The room is dark, and white noise cancelling devices work well

• Limiting caffeine intake to early in your day although you may find caffeine helpful to stay alert

• Trying to settle down to sleep. Clear your mind of worries. At least an hour before settling, make a list of all your worries, concerns and tasks undone. Put the list in a safe place till morning. Now your worries are out of your mind, so that you can sleep • Short daytime naps to improve performance by 34% and alertness by 100% - napping can improve your mood and positive outlook for the rest of the day

• Managing and preventing sleep fatigue, which is always the best treatment and if not always possible, a visit to you doctor is recommended. Your doctor may subscribe sleeping pills for a limited time to help you fall asleep. There are over the counter sleep medications as well. Remember that they work differently on each individual. Always be aware of the recommended dosage.

• Eating a healthy diet and avoid eating high calorie or high fat meals during night shift

You can also approach any member of the Peer Support Team for additional information and support.

• Getting plenty of exercise

Here’s wishing you more restful night sleeps!

TORONTO FIRE SERVICES EAP/CIS NEWSLETTER - Volume 12 Issue 3 Fire Watch Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 41

3 2017-06-12 11:17 AM

he Movember Foundation is one that the TPFFA is proud to support as prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canadian men. We feel it is important to educate our members along with their family and friends on the facts about prostate cancer as early detection is vital!

Some important facts that the Movember Foundation reminds us of are: • When detected early the survival rates are better than 98%. • Once an individual turns 50 years old, they need to speak to their Doctor about PSA testing (blood tests that measure the Prostate Specific Antigen). — Individuals of African or Caribbean descent should do this at age 45. — Individuals with a family history should also do this at age 45. Prostate cancer is a cancer that only a male can obtain as only men have a prostate gland. As men age, the prostate gland usually grows and gets bigger. Prostate cancer usually commences when the cells in the prostate multiply at a rapid rate that isn’t the normal growth pace, which results in the formation of a tumor. Unfortunately, if left untreated or is found late prostate cancer can be an aggressive cancer and invade distant parts of the individual’s anatomy, particularly the lymph nodes and bones. Although information about prostate cancer is at our fingertips the TPFFA were proud to join the Movember Campaign for the month of November 2016 to help spread social awareness on the illness that effects so many of our brothers! So many of our members were engaged in this campaign and we thank them and their families for all their support and generous donations, their participation in our Axe Throwing night and our day of Disc Golf, as well as purchasing the popular TPFFA Movember toque!

“Being a Toronto Firefighter, I only know too well about all these Men’s health issues. We all know someone that has been affected. This year we want to try to make a difference and bring awareness to these Men’s issues.” Gerlando Peritore: Toronto Fire Fighter, 1 Year MO BRO 42

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 42

“In loving memory of my father who passed away from prostate cancer on aug28 2007 Antonio Coelho Sr.” Antonio Coelho: Toronto Fire Fighter, 1 Year MO BRO

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 42

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

The TPFFA would also like to congratulations to our following prize winners for being the top 3 fundraising TPFFA members:

A pair of Toronto Maple Leaf Tickets:

A Mykhail Baehr aluminum print of any Toronto Fire Hall:

A $100.00 credit to the TPFFA Store:

Greg Martin

Steve Buchignani

Antonio Coelho

with $4325.00 raised

with $3050.00 raised

with $1280.00 raised

Here are a few stats from our 2016 campaign: • A total of 115 team members participated • 93 of our team members raised over $50 and received a free TPFFA Movember toque for their efforts • We raised a total of $37,597 • We moved a total distance of 43.66km and 310,650 steps • We ranked #1 out of 160 teams on the “Great Canadian Fire Challenge” network leaderboard - almost $23,000 ahead of the second place team in this network! • We ranked #14 nationally out of all teams across Canada • The top 3 individual fundraisers in the Great Canadian Fire Challenge network were all Toronto Fire Fighters (Greg Martin, Steve Buchignani and Frank Ramagnano)

We look forward to another successful campaign next year with the support and participation of our members! For further information on the Movember Foundation please visit:

www.movember.com

“I will support men’s health by sporting the dirtiest duster in all of local 3888. I hope it to resemble the likes of Tom Selleck or perhaps the great Lanny McDonald” Philip Menna: Toronto Fire Fighter, 1 Year MO BRO

“To live in a world where no man has to suffer from prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health issues”

“Fire Fighters from all across Canada are coming together and growing Mo’s to help change the face of men’s health”

Damiano Ottaviani: Toronto Fire Fighter, 4 Year MO BRO

Greg Goertzen: Toronto Fire Fighter, 3 Year MO BRO

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 43

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 43

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

3888 RECENT HAPPENINGS

The Scarborough Hospital’s “Brave T.O.” Obstacle Race held in the fall of 2016 encouraged our members to attend and participate in Honour of passed Fire Fighter, Sara Rosen. The race was a 3 or 5 km team event, with course obstacles that are inspired by real-life physical challenges faced by first responders during training and on the street, for example, a victim carry, ladder climb, and wall rappel.

The TPFFA Fire Prevention Recruit Class Boot Drive raised $7550.77! Congratulations to our newest Fire Prevention members!

In support of the Franklin Horner Community Centre, the TPFFA help participate in a successful Seniors Dinner.

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 44

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 44

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

The 2016 Toy Drive has been a great success. We donated over 17,000 toys and collected over 20,000 - this surplus will allow us to initiate the 2017 season with the reserve required, due to the donation requests arriving as soon as early November. Cash donations were well in excess of $40,000 - a record amount and a great contribution to the ongoing success of the Toy Drive. Hospital visits on Christmas morning were conducted by both on-duty and off-duty fire fighters, as well as some respective Family members. A heartfelt thank you to all that assisted us on Christmas morning.

On January 19, 2017, the Tehran firefighters lost 30 of their brothers and sisters in a devastating building collapse; the second biggest loss in a single incident to our profession since 9/11. The TPFFA showed their support by attending a memorial service at Mel Lastman Square that was hosted by Torontoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Persian Community.

On Sunday March 16th 2017 the TPFFA participated in the St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Parade downtown Toronto. Following the Parade there was a celebration held at the Crocodile Rock Pub.

Vo l u m e 1 2 | I s s u e 3 | F I RE WAT CH 45

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 45

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 46

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 47

2017-06-12 11:17 AM

Fire Watch Volume 12 Issue 3 v9.indd 48

2017-06-12 11:17 AM