NEFF_April2025

WWW.NSVFA.ORG The Official Publication of the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association

REACHING MORE THAN 8 , 50 0 NEBRASKA FIREFIGHTERS EACH MONTH April 2025 • Vol. 18 - No. 6

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Wednesday, May 14th 11:00am

Fire School Committee Meeting

Thursday, May 15th

8:00am - 5:00pm

Vendor Setup

(Vendor sales begin Friday at 7:00am) 11:00am

NSVFA Board Meeting

Registration and packets pickup not available until Friday at 7:00am

Friday, May 16th 7:00am

Registration Open

Pre-Registration Packets to be Picked-up before 11:00am

88 NEBRASKA th

STATE FIRE SCHOOL

FONNER PARK - GRAND ISLAND, NE

MAY 16-18, 2025 BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

A $35.00 Park a

7:00am - 6:00pm

Vendor Exhibits Open

9:00am

Opening Ceremonies

11:00am

Area Representatives Meeting

11:00am

Instructors Meeting

11:00am - 1:00pm

Lunch

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The Ne weap

Served to all registered persons with meal tickets, extra meal tickets may be purchased at registration desk

1:00 - 4:00pm

Classes in Session

6:00pm

Vendor Exhibits Close

Saturday, May 17th 7:00am - 4:00pm

Vendor Exhibits Open

8:00am - 3:00pm

Classes in Session

11:00am - 1:00pm

Staggered 1 hour Lunches

3:30pm

NE Fire Chiefs Association Meeting

4:00pm

Vendor Exhibits Close

4:30pm

Catholic Church Services

4:30pm

All Faith Services

5:00pm

(Buildings for Vendors & Classes)…Closed

Sunday, May 18th 8:00am - 11:00am 11:00am

Classes in Session 2025 NE Fire School Closes

No Vendors -- Lunch will NOT be served Sunday

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2 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

Arnold Volunteer Fire Department Awards Banquet

Lee Eastburn is shown receiving a plaque for his retirement and 42 years of service to the Arnold Fire Department. Tammy Weinman and Robbi Smith presented the plaque.

The Arnold Volunteer Fire Department held their Annual Awards Night and Banquet with 24 in attendance. It was held at the Legion on Friday, Feb. 28.

Mike Bailey, paramedic from Ansley, was the speaker for the night. He had mentioned that for his speech he had talked to other area departments and asked what they would say about the Arnold Fire Department. One person said that Arnold continues to build on the foundation that was set a long time ago. One word kept coming to the forefront was the word family.

Robbi Smith read a speech from Andrew Tickle, Fire Chief.

Andrew was unable to attend due to being out of town for a funeral.

Robbi presented the “Years of Service” pins to Cassy DeLosh for 10 years of service and to Tammy Weinman for 25 years

of service. Tammy looked back over her 25 years on the department and talked about the highlights and memories of those year.

Lee Eastburn was given a plaque for his retirement and 42 years of service to the department. Brock Dailey also retired and had 21 years of service but was unable to attend the awards banquet.

EMT of the Year was awarded to Tammy Weinman and Runner Up EMT of the Year was awarded to Cassy DeLosh. Fireman of the Year was awarded to Andrew Tickle and Runner Up Fireman of the Year was awarded to Robbi Smith. These awards are voted on by department members.

Retired member in attendance was Mike Gunther and his wife Barb Gunther. We always appreciate retired members joining us for the night.

Pictured are: Cassy DeLosh, Runner Up EMT of the Year; Robbi Smith, Fireman of the Year; and Tammy Weinman, EMT of the Year. Not pictured: Andrew Tickle, Fireman of the Year.

Years of service pins went to Cassy DeLosh for 10 years of service and Tammy Weinman for 25 years of service.

Wildland Urban Interface Firefighting for Structural Company Officers Course SFM – Training Division Course Announcement The Training Division of the State Fire Marshal’s Office will be hosting the following National Fire Academy direct delivery course: WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE FIREFIGHTING FOR STRUCTURAL COMPANY OFFICERS (F0610) WHEN: June 7-8, 2025

CONTACT YOUR EXCLUSIVE FIRE-DEX SALES PARTNER FOR MORE INFO AND PRICING! SHELLIE RATHJEN

North & Western Nebraska

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JUSTIN SCHACK

Southern Nebraska

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Where: 715 S Jeffers, North Platte, NE COST: No cost for National Fire Academy Class COURSE DESCRIPTION: This two-day course identifies operational activities and safety concerns for structural Company Officers (COs) assigned to a wildland urban interface (WUI) incident.

Topics covered and discussion include; Introduction to Wildland Urban Interface firefighting

tactics and challenges, working within the interface environment, basic understanding of wildland fire behavior, command and control issues of firefighting in the Urban Interface and applying tactics of structural firefighters in the Urban Interface. Underlying all material is the ongoing need for firefighter safety during this type of operations.

To register click the following link and register on the Training Divisions registration page under NFA DD: https://nebraskasfmtd. ne.gov/Courses/Courses_Avail. aspx Once on this page, click on NFA-DD at the top and then click on “register” for the course you are interested in.

PLEASE REMEMBER: The NFA has a policy that there must be a minimum of 15 students registered for a course 40 days in advance of the start of the class in order to give the class approval so please register EARLY.

April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 3

Fire Prevention Nebraska Style Can you believe the calendar will soon be switching to May? There’s still time to register for the Fire Prevention Class at the Nebraska State Fire School. This dynamic class will give you an extra boost as you plan your

Upcoming Events Email your Upcoming Event by the 10th of the previous month (ex. Aug. 10 for the September issue) to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com . There is no charge.

APR. 5-6, 2025: SFM –

Training Division Course - Decision Making Initial Company Operations (F0457) Course, 1115 13th Ave., Sidney.

APR. 10, 2025: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Scottsbluff (City).

APR. 19-20, 2025: SFM – Training Division Course -Leadership in Supervision: Perspectives in Thinking (F0647) Course, Norfolk Fire Department, 701 Koenigstein Ave., Norfolk.

MAY 16-18, 2025: Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association Fire School, Grand Island, NE. JUNE 7-8, 2025: SFM – Training Division Course – Wildland Urban Interface Firefighters for Structural Company Officers (F0610), 715 S. Jeffers, North Platte.

JULY 10, 2025: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Scottsbluff (Rural).

JULY 19, 2025: Annual Bob Tichota Fire Prevention Fun Day, hosted by East Central Nebraska Fire Prevention Coop, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Fremont State Lakes.

AUG. 9-10, 2025: SFM – Training Division Course - Incident Command Systems for Structural Collapse Incidents (F0322) Course, Epply Airfield, 5111 Boeing Ct, Omaha.

SEPT. 21, 2025: 2025 Fall Firefighters Memorial Service.

OCT. 9, 2025: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, West Nebraska Regional Airport (Annual Meeting).

OCT. 16-18, 2025: NSVFA Annual Conference, Kearney.

JAN. 8, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, West Nebraska Regional Airport (Annual Meeting).

APR. 9, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Alliance.

JULY 9, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Banner County.

OCT. 8, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Bayard.

next step in protecting your family, friends, and community. The class is a very motivational move towards ways to enjoy promoting the importance of fire prevention 365 days of the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

As we move into the time of year where plans are made for a fun summer with family and friends many parents will be looking for babysitters. NFPA has a very helpful Babysitting Safety sheet that you are permitted to copy and distribute in your community concerning the importance of fire prevention and safety while your loved ones are being cared for by a babysitter.

If the babysitter is going to be allowed to cook, they must make sure to follow these pointers• Keep children at least 3 feet “kid-free zone” away from

Fire Chiefs Leadership symposium Brian Daunt from the US Forestry Service was the speaker for the 9th annual Fire Chiefs Leadership symposium held at Fort Robinson on March 15. Over 60 firefighters from across the state attended the one-day symposium. Submitted by Mark Meints.

ACTION FIRE PHOTOS NEEDED! Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

along with information to explain the photo.

Rhonda Cerny, NSVFA Fire Prevention

stoves • Keep children at least 3 feet “kid-free zone” away from the microwave oven • Never leave the room while cooking • Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop • Keep pets off surfaces and countertops • Store matches and lighters out of the children’s reach • Candles should not be used by your babysitter Show the babysitter your home escape plan and make sure the babysitter understands• Two ways out of every room • Where the outdoor meeting place is located • The 911 emergency phone number • How to unlock all doors and windows

“There’s still time to register for the Fire Prevention Class at the Nebraska State Fire School. This dynamic class will give you an extra boost as you plan your next step in protecting your family, friends, and community. The class is a very motivational move towards ways to enjoy promoting the importance of fire prevention 365 days of the year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!”

If the smoke alarm sounds make sure your babysitter knows to• Get out of the home quickly with your child to safety • Use the second way out if smoke is in the way • Get low and go under the smoke to exit is an escape must be made through smoke Always leave the phone number where you can be reached.

Cell phones make this easy. Be sure the babysitter knows the address of the home.

Many places offer babysitting classes. These are online and in the classroom. Some schools and

hospitals give training. Classes teach how to care for children.

They also teach CPR. What to do in an emergency is also taught.

This may be a training you are interested in hosting at your department, I encourage you to move forward with the idea and a great target audience may be the 12 to 14 year olds.

Hope to see you at the Nebraska State Fire School, and I’m sure we can find a seat for you in the Fire Prevention Class!

RHONDA CERNY, NSVFA Fire Prevention Team

4 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

Training Division Part-time instructor Spotlight The Training Division of the State Fire Marshal agency would like to Spotlight Trista Cress with the Gibbon Volunteer Fire and Rescue department. Cress became involved with the fire service in 2006 as a member of the Gibbon department as a firefighter/EMT and has served in several positions including; Second Assistant Chief, Vice President and Assistant Rescue Captain. Trista began working for the Training Division in 2015 in the Central Region with Brian Busse.

Cress has been recognized for her efforts with the Gibbon Fire and Rescue by receiving a Star

of Life Award and the Flame Award. In her spare time Trista enjoys spending time outdoors fishing, hunting and horseback riding.

When asked to share what she’s finds most satisfying in working for the Training Division she shared the following: “I love being able to share knowledge with new firefighters and watching them put that knowledge to use. Helping to shape the future generations of firefighters is an exciting yet humbling experience.”

When asked to share an experience in teaching for the Training Division when she felt like she

made a difference, Cress shared this experience: “every year at state fire school there is always one person that may struggle with their gear or air pack. Being able to calm them down and walk them through to the point they do the task on their own is the best feeling. I’ve now had several occasions where individuals have approached me years later and have thanked me for taking the time to help them learn and for caring about them.”

The Training Division is grateful to have Trista on our staff and for her teaching skills in helping the fire service of the state realize the their full potential.

Smokey Sez sez

By BOB HECKMAN

This month’s article is dedicated to the memory of Jerry Stolze, South Sioux Volunteer Fire Department.

With spring and summer here very soon let’s talk and be prepared for severe weather. If you respond or use generators, check

that they are hooked up properly. Do not use indoors and shut them off before refueling. During disasters power poles may be damaged or wires laying all over, please do not let one careless moment be your last. Work with your local power company, it can sometimes be hard to tell a cable wire from a phone line or other

Classifieds

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE NEBRASKA FIREFIGHTER NEWSPAPER

Classified ads run $10 for the first 10 words, and 25 cents a word after that. A photo is $10 additional. Rates are the same in each state (Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas).

Email the ad to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com to place your personal or departmental ads.

What’s an inch tall and can move a fire truck?

A classified ad in the Nebraska Firefighter!

Email jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com to get your truck moving fast!

For ADDRESS CHANGES CONTACT: 402-761-2211 Fax: 402-761-2224 staff@nsvfa.org

Published monthly by Blaze Publications Inc. NEWS & ADVERTISING DEADLINE: 15TH DAY OF EACH MONTH Email: jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com PO Box 122, Humboldt, IA 50548 Advertising Rate Card available upon request. We welcome your views, opinions, news tips and questions. Letters to the editor must be accompanied by a name and daytime telephone number, and may be edited for space.

wires.

Now is the time to train. A live wire falling on the chain link fence could possibly electrify the entire fence. Do not get in such a hurry that careless could be your last.

Get training on the difference from watches and warnings. Have safety procedures for home, work, school, places of worship and last of all at the fire station.

This month’s spotlight is on Dakota City Vol. Fire Dept. - 27 members, 71 square miles and 400 calls per year combination of fire and EMS calls.

Fireman Bob proudly serving Plattsmouth Fire.

Trista Cress

April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 5

2025 Browning Memorial Recipient The 2025 Browning Memorial Award Recipient is Colson Hicks from North Platte. Colson is 6 years old and is the son of Cody and Taylor Hicks and grandson of Jason Hicks, who is a member of the Palisade Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.

Colson was born Dec. 6, 2019.

Colson was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber syndrome and Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome.

Sturge-Weber is a rare, neurological disorder present at birth, characterized by a port-wine stain birthmark on the forehead and upper eyelid on one side of the face. The birthmark can vary in color from light pink to deep purple and is caused by an overabundance of capillaries (small blood vessels) around the trigeminal nerve just beneath the surface of the face. Sturge-Weber syndrome is also accompanied by abnormal blood vessels on the brain’s surface and the loss of tissue (atrophy) with deposits of calcium (calcification) in the cerebral cortex of the brain on the same side as the birthmark. Sturge-Weber syndrome rarely affects other body organs.

Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, also called KTS, is a rare disorder found at birth (congenital) involving problems in the development of certain blood vessels, soft tissues (such as skin and muscles), bones and sometimes the lymphatic system. The main features include a red birthmark, atypical vein or lymphatic development (malformations), and overgrowth of tissues and bones.

Colson began to experience seizures almost immediately after birth and continues with them today. Colson is seen regularly at Children’s Hospital for treatment of seizures and testing to monitor the progression of the disease. A few obstacles that Colson has been faced with in just four short years: So far Colson has had two surgeries, a few laser treatments, a week-long EEG, and several MRIs to monitor bleeding and calcifications on his brain. Colson has been flown to Children’s Hospital in Omaha multiple times for extensive seizure activity. After a year of no seizure activity, Colson began having seizures again in February 2024. He still continues to follow up regularly with Neurology, Ophthalmology, Orthope-

ACTION FIRE PHOTOS NEEDED! Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

along with information to explain the photo.

dics, and ENT/Audiology. A case study has been opened in hopes of helping future families navigate through diagnoses like Colson’s. He continues to meet with his multidisciplinary team that consists of Occupational therapy, Physical therapy, Speech, and Resource.

Colson is starting second year Pre-K in fall of 2024. Colson is the happiest, funniest, most wild little boy despite the circumstances. Colson never lets anything stop him and is always determined to figure things out one way or another!

Colson will be recognized at the 2025 Nebraska State Fire School

in Grand Island on May 16, 2025 during the Opening Ceremony.

The special Recognition Committee would like to make this a special day for Colson.

We are asking all Fire and Rescue departments, auxiliaries, individuals and anyone that would like to bring something for Colson that day.

Colson wears a size 5-7 t-shirt.

If you have any questions, please give me a call or text!

MARLENE BOMAR, Special Recognition Committee member 402-992-1561 mbomar126@gmail.com

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6 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

NSVFA Officer Directory President SCOTT SCHREMMER 815 W 6th, Chadron, NE 69337 308-430-1494 buffhater@gmail.com 1st Vice President BRENDA JENNY 1767 Colfax Street, Blair, NE 68008 402.639.9647 bgolf2560@yahoo.com 2nd Vice President TROY SHOEMAKER 1433 Grove Ave Alliance, NE 69301 308-760-7682 tshoemaker@cityofalliance.net Secretary/Treasurer MARK MEINTS 502 E H St, Wymore, NE 68466 402-806-7451 meints2@windstream.net Legal Advisor RYAN K. MCINTOSH PO Box 186 Syracuse, NE 68446-0186 ryan.mcintosh@bhhslawfirm.com

NSVFA Officer OFficer Reports This month I must start by saying that we as a group lost a very huge asset with the announcement that Fire Marshal Scott Cortes will no longer be with us, he has resigned as our state Fire Marshal. I received an email from him that described his last couple of years, and I honestly don’t know how he lasted as long as he did, this guy has sacrificed a ton of his time traveling back and forth to Lincoln to his home due to family issues, and he will be greatly missed by this association. I have great hopes that our next Fire Marshal will be as good as our last.

By the time you read this, the Chiefs symposium will have come and gone and I am hoping for a great turnout. As I stated last month in my article, it should be a great class, and I am looking forward to seeing a bunch of you there.

With that said it is time to get registered for Fire School, the

books are out, and the classes are filling up fast, so please don’t wait to get your registration done quickly. There are some new classes this year with Rapid Intervention being one of them.

When I took that class it not only worked our butts off but taught us a ton of life saving measures that can be used if needed. I’m sure the fire school committee is getting fired up to get going as spring is in the air!!!

With, as many of you know, we have had a rough February and the start of March as the weather has not been a typical year. The fires around the state have caused great issues early and without more moisture there is no doubt that it will continue to happen. This is why we all must do our best to promote fire safety and bring as much information to the public as possible when not to burn. We had a state wide zoom meeting with as many chiefs as possible talk-

Scott Schremmer, President “With that said it is time to get registered for Fire School, the books are out, and the classes are filling up fast, so please don’t wait to get your registration done quickly. There are some new classes this year with Rapid Intervention being one of them.

When I took that class it not only worked our butts off but taught us a ton of life saving measures that can be used if needed.”

ing about burn permits and I am grateful that we started a conversation about it, but the meeting was brief and I feel that many of us want more out of what we can do to stop people from burning without permits and I’m sure that NEMA and the State want that also as these fires that have happened have come with some hefty bills. I can tell you that the NSVFA will continue to work hard with everyone to get some questions answered on this topic

of burn permits.

One last note please reach out to all your members and let them know how to access the Nebraska Firefighter. I know that not all are viewing this as we have some of our own members not knowing how to log in, the password is fire2025, and please remind your entire mailing list of this.

As always please stay safe and God bless the Volunteer.

SCOTT SCHREMMER, President

Scott Schremmer submitted these two photos from day four of their last timber fire the first week of March saying “this is why we have to re-check fires.”

Lobbyist GERALD STILMOCK P.O. Box 186 Syracuse 68446 402-269-2081 • Office jerry.stilmock@bhhslawfirm.com Past President SHAD BRYNER PO Box 154, Hemingford, NE 69348 308-760-3341 sbryner@bbc.net

District Directors #1 DARRELL VANCE 1415 Q St, Gering, NE 69341 308-631-0053 DarrellVance1230@gmail.com #2 JOHN BOMAR P.O. Box 222, Battle Creek, NE 68715 402-992-1560 JBomar1970@gmail.com #3 RON CHADA 1721 N Sheridan North Platte, NE 69101 308-520-2828 rmchada@winnelson.com #4 KENNY KRAUSE 1229 D St. Fairbury, NE 68352 402-300-0097 krausechief@gmail.com NSVFA Representative National Vol. Fire Council JUSTIN SCAMEHORN 202 Hidas Ave. Waco, NE 68460 402-366-1939 jscamehorn@yahoo.com Appointed NVFC Director JOEL CERNY 1618 Denver St. Schuyler 68661 402-720-4100 cerny_j@hotmail.com Chaplain MATTHEW MAU Cell: 402-363-1540 E: pastormattwaco@gmail.com

It is nice to welcome spring back. Mother Nature has been a little psychotic with the weather swings recently, with blizzards that shut down nearly half the state, and a week later, almost summer like temps in the 80’s here. Spring also brings the need for fire weather watch activities and increased wildland fires across the state. One other thing that happens in the spring is fire department award banquets.

It is important to recognize the work of your volunteers in some way, and if you are already doing award banquets, your goal could be to make them better in some way. If you aren’t having an awards banquet, recognizing your volunteers, a banquet could be a great way to honor your members for all the time and effort they give to the department.

My own department held its

first annual banquet in 2014, as part of our 50-year anniversary.

As an E-Board member, I get to travel across the state and attend these events, from what I’ve seen there is no wrong way to do this.

They can be very simple from a department cooked meal in the truck bay, to a catered meal in a venue.

Awards can range from years of service, betterment awards, top responder, firefighters that travel outside the state for fire or training opportunities, and some departments give an award to the fire person who got the truck stuck, dented or hit a bay door, to make the banquet a little more fun. Installation of your department officers could also be a part of your program. Entertainment can vary widely, with some having a dance, Dueling Pianos, hypnotist, guest speakers or sim-

Kenny Krause, District 4 Director “It is important to recognize the work of your volunteers in some way, and if you are already doing award banquets, your goal could be to make them better in some way. If you aren’t having an awards banquet, recognizing your volunteers, a banquet could be a great way to honor your members for all the time and effort they give to the department.”

ply having a corn hole tournament in the truck bay.

Just do something to acknowledge your members. We all have the desire to feel needed and appreciated in our roles on the department. As always, stay safe.

KENNY KRAUSE, District 4 Director

ACTION FIRE PHOTOS NEEDED! Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

along with information to explain the photo.

NSVFA Officer OFficer Reports What is Leadership?

of three entities creates a result more powerful than the sum of the individual parts. This concept is a common thread in communication theory, literature, psychology, faith, and even popular culture and entertainment.

So why should fire service leadership be any different? As officers, we may have many tasks and goals; regardless of rank, the people we work for want results.

As leaders, we need to do only three things: establish direction, gain commitment, and motivate.

Embracing these three components creates a powerful way to accomplish our duties as fire service officers. They are the core of effective fire service leadership.

1. Establish Direction: It is challenging to become a leader and/or an officer without the ability to choose a direction. Keep in mind that while the destination typically remains fixed, the best direction may change.

2. Gain Commitment: A necessary component of leading is having followers. But we know reality is not as easy as logic implies.

To lead effectively, you must gain commitment for the direction you establish.

3. Motivate: Now, let us assume you have gained commitment. You are leading, and your followers are following you—for the time being. Your work is still not done. The tougher the trail,

the more you will have to move up and down the line of followers to reassure them and address their questions and doubts—this is motivation!

Those three things I talked about above are not the solution for all our leadership woes: even if you desire to do the right thing, there will still be forces working against you. For all the change agents and willing followers in our individual organizations, there are skeptical, cynical, and people who simply want to gain attention by being disagreeable. We will never eliminate that element of the leadership equation.

However, you will unnecessarily empower them if you fail to show up, listen, explain, sell, and listen some more. It will be incumbent upon you as a leader not to become reluctant to engage all your personnel, no matter how tired you are of chasing the same rumors and reluctance to change.

Here are three truths about leadership that I have learned through my journey as a leader: 1. Leadership is a choice 2. Leadership is practice 3. Leadership is a sacrifice Some words to add to your leadership vocabulary are selling, explaining, listening, answering, meeting, and engaging. We could add so many more words to these, but they are necessary for our long-term success. After all, what

In the heart of Nebraska, volunteer fire departments serve as the backbone of many communities, providing essential emergency services and fostering community spirit. These brave men and women dedicate countless hours to training and responding to emergencies, often while juggling full-time jobs and family commitments. However, recent cuts to federal funding and programs may threaten the sustainability of these vital services. The Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA) has been a crucial supporter of local departments, securing four SAFER Grants valued at over $1 million each through federal government initiatives. These grants have been instrumental in providing training and equipping local volunteer fire departments with the necessary resources to

effectively protect their communities.

The importance of these grants cannot be overstated. They have allowed our local departments to enhance their training programs, ensuring that volunteer firefighters are well-prepared to handle emergencies, from wildfires to structural fires and medical responses. Furthermore, the funding has enabled the purchase of essential equipment, such as personal protective gear, which are vital for the safety of both the firefighters and the communities they serve. Without these federal funds, the NSVFA will struggle to provide the same level of support to its members, compromising the effectiveness of local fire departments.

The potential loss of this funding presents a critical moment for Nebraska’s volunteer fire departments, which already face challenges such as recruitment and retention of volunteers. As communities grow and the demands for emergency services increase,

the need for well-trained and well-equipped firefighters becomes even more pressing. The importance of our volunteer fire departments in Nebraska cannot be understated, and our continued success hinges on adequate funding and support. The training and equipment that we have provided through these federal grants has made a significant difference in the safety and preparedness of local departments and communities.

As of now, the application period for our 5th Safer Grant has not been announced (originally set to open in December 2024), and the National Fire Academy remains closed indefinitely, with all in-person training sessions canceled. On March 11, 2025, a constant contact email was distributed to all NSFVA members, urging them to reach out to their representatives and senators to encourage the President to reopen the NFA. We ask for your support in assisting the fire service entities affected by

As I prepare my monthly article, 175 wildfires are wreaking havoc in North and South Carolina. South Carolina Governor McMaster has declared a “State of Emergency” in an effort to help provide his first responders with the resources they so desperately need.

As usual, a couple of the “culprits” are unseasonably warm weather and low humidity. But the leading cause has been identified as careless burning.

And across the country, just when you think things couldn’t possibly get any worse, south-

ern California is now overwhelmed with powerful storms, mud slides and flooding.

All of this comes on the heels of the massive conflagration which burned over 57,000 acres, destroyed 16,000 structures and directly or indirectly led to the deaths of 29 people.

On another note, I spoke with Gering Firefighter/EMT Jim Lawson last night about the digitized version of the “Nebraska Firefighter.” For an old school guy, he was pretty excited about being able to read it with cell phone in hand. And believe me,

if he can do it, anybody can do it. Don’t be afraid, give it a try!

Just a reminder, the National Fire Academy class “Decision Making for Initial Company Operations” at Sidney will be held on April 5 and 6.

May 16 thru 18 brings the annual Nebraska State Fire School to Grand Island. Registration can be accomplished on-line as classes are filling up quickly just like the area motel rooms.

And the annual meeting of the NSVFA will take place at Kearney between Oct. 16 and 18.

Hope to see many “old” friends

Webster’s Dictionary defines leadership as the ability to guide, direct, or influence people.

Most of us have attended a leadership class in which the instructor asked, “Give me some words you would use to define leadership.”

Words such as decisive, courageous, integrity, empathy, and so many more will be thrown out.

What is leadership to you?

When asked, I like to use the words “just be nice.” I learned this in kindergarten from Mrs. Phyllis Pebley. She would say, “Mr. Troy, just be nice.” Outside of nap time, it is the only thing I remember from kindergarten. I reminded Mrs. Pebley of that when I was honored to speak at her husband’s funeral, Marvin Pebley, past president of the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association.

She gave me the first lesson in leadership. So many of us, when we hear “Be nice,” associate that with America’s Fire Chief, Alan Brunacini from Phoenix. Not to take anything from Chief Bruno, but for me, it will always be Mrs. Pebley. I have failed this leadership test many times; being nice is so complex, and I forget sometimes, no matter how hard I try.

We all do, but it does not stop us from trying.

Have you ever heard of the power of three? The combination

Obstacles Arising from Reductions in Federal Funding

April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 7

Troy Shoemaker,2nd Vice President “When asked, I like to use the words “just be nice.” I learned this in kindergarten from Mrs. Phyllis Pebley.

She would say, “Mr. Troy, just be nice.”

Outside of nap time, it is the only thing I remember from kindergarten.

I reminded Mrs. Pebley of that when I was honored to speak at her husband’s funeral, Marvin Pebley, past president of the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association.”

did we really achieve if all the good we did ceases the minute we did not hold our position?

There are several leadership training courses available from a host of sources such as Fire Officer I and II through the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s training division. Of course, there are some prerequisites that you will need to meet for them. The Nebraska Fire Chief’s Association holds a leadership symposium every year that you can take advantage of along with the National Volunteer Fire Council offers a comprehensive leadership track in its virtual classroom, consisting of 10 courses designed to enhance leadership skills and effectiveness for emergency services leaders. It is selfpaced learning and comes with free access for NVFC members.

Of course, there are several books one can read about leadership. One that I remember reading for the promotional test for Captain when I was on the Scottsbluff Fire Department was Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun by Wess

Roberts, PhD. It really is an informative read, and I would recommend it to anyone.

If you think about it, leadership can be a complex subject to not only write about but talk about.

Every one of us has a different opinion of what makes a good leader versus a bad leader and over the years my leadership style has evolved and constantly changed. I am not the same leader today as I was when I was promoted to Fire Captain/Shift Commander for Scottsbluff Fire in 2004. My hope is that I am a much better leader today than I was back then.

One last thing I would like to leave you with is this, if you accept the call to leadership, you must be willing to be misunderstood, criticized, opposed, accused, and even rejected. I will tell you; it is worth all of that and so much more.

Stay safe and take care of yourself and your departments.

TROY SHOEMAKER, 2 nd Vice President

Brenda Jenny 1st Vice President “By standing together and expressing the importance of these grants, we can ensure that Nebraska’s volunteer fire departments remain equipped, trained, and ready to respond to the needs of our communities.”

these closures by using the link provided in that email ( https:// www.votervoice.net/NVFC/ Campaigns/123312/Respond ) to contact your representatives and senators.

By standing together and expressing the importance of these grants, we can ensure that Nebraska’s volunteer fire departments remain equipped, trained, and ready to respond to the needs of our communities.

If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to me or any officer of the NSVFA. Below are upcoming events

you don’t want to miss: • NSVFA Fire School Registration is now open. Ensure you register early to secure your preferred classes. Stay informed here: https://www.nsvfa.org/nebraska-fire-school • NSVFA Fire School: May 16-18, 2025.

• 2025 Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service: Sept. 21, 2025 Until next time, stay safe and healthy!

BRENDA JENNY, 1st Vice President

Darrell Vance, District 1 Director “I spoke with Gering Firefighter/ EMT Jim Lawson last night about the digitized version of the “Nebraska Firefighter.” For an old school guy, he was pretty excited about being able to read it with cell phone in hand. And believe me, if he can do it, anybody can do it. Don’t be afraid, give it a try!”

and make a few new ones!

Best wishes to everyone from your fellow firefighters and EMTs out here in the “west!”

DARRELL VANCE, District 1 Director

8 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

NSVFA Officer OFficer Reports

FUNDING FOR VOLUNTEER FIRE/ RESCUE DEPARTMENT RADIOS LB 25 AND LB 62

During March, the Appropriations Committee heard two legislative bills both geared toward providing additional funding for interoperable radio grants for volunteer departments. LB 25 brought by Senator Beau Ballard (Lincoln) would appropriate $5 million in grant funding for radios available to volunteer departments. This bill would require a one-to-one match from local funds for the radios. The bill would also limit each applicant to not more than $3.5 million of grant funding.

LB 62 brought by Senator Tom Brandt (Plymouth) would appropriate $19 million in the upcoming fiscal year for radios for volunteer departments.

Also contained within LB 62 are additional details which would: 1) Provide funding for the purchase of sets which would include a portable and a mobile

radio and repeater for volunteer fire and rescue departments; 2) Provide training for interoperability with the Statewide Radio System to connect volunteer departments and agencies through a grant program; 3) Base the number and type of radios required by a department upon the individual needs and size of the department; and 4) Provide that the State would not charge any subscription, programming, or training fees for any volunteer department connected to the Statewide Radio System upon receipt of a grant from the program.

Because of the ongoing work of the Appropriations Committee to prepare and finalize a recommended State budget to the full Legislature, it has not been determined if additional funding will be provided this year. Recall that appropriations for volunteer radios was included in the 2023 budget in the amount of $5 million and in 2024 $2 million. Once the budget recommendations are received from the Appropriations Committee, an update will be provided.

RAILROAD SAFETY ACT

Gerald Stilmock, Lobbyist “LB 62 brought by Senator Tom Brandt (Plymouth) would appropriate $19 million in the upcoming fiscal year for radios for volunteer departments.”

LB 37

Senator Mike Jacobson (North Platte) introduced LB 37 which would create the Railroad Safety Act. The legislation was heard recently by the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee and received the support of the volunteer firefighters.

Specifically, in relation to first responders, the legislation would require: 1) Hot bearing and dragging equipment detectors (wayside detectors) be installed at least every 20 miles along a main line; 2) that public crossings not be obstructed longer than 10 minutes or in a manner that delays emergency vehicles in assisting a person or property in danger; and 3) on or before Jan. 1, 2027, and at least every three years thereafter, require each railroad to offer training to each fire department having jurisdiction along the tracks upon which the railroad operates. The training could be offered to more than one fire department simultaneously.

At the time of publication, LB 37 had not yet been advanced by the Committee.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION COVERAGE – FIREFIGHTER CANCER LB 400

Senator Dave Wordekember (Fremont) introduced LB 400 which was heard by the Business and Labor Committee during March. The legislation would change workers’ compensation law by creating a rebuttable presumption within the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act treating cancer as an occupational disease for firefighters, including both volunteer and career firefighters.

Specifically, for a volunteer firefighter, the legislation would apply if such volunteer acted for five or more years in the State of Nebraska as a volunteer firefighter. If the proposed legislation was adopted, and cancer was diagnosed, it would be presumed

Legal Advisor’s Report N.S.V.F.A. Members, This is the third article with reminders regarding the Nebraska Open Meetings Act (“Act”). Last month I discussed key provisions of the act, including closed session meetings that often leads to compliance issues. This month I will cover what needs to be included in the minutes.

The list is extensive, and can

be found primarily in Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 84-1411 and 84-1413.

Items that must be included are: (1) The time, date, and location of the meeting; (2) the method and dates of notice; (3) that a copy of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act was posted and made available; (4) a list of all members present and absent; (5) “the substance of all matters discussed”; (6) For

any action taken, who made the motion, who seconded the motion, and how each member voted; (7) for claims or bills paid, a full list of bills with the claimant and amount; and (8) the time of adjournment.

Also, in most instances, the minutes must be made available to the public within ten days.

There are additional requirements

Chapman, Grand Island Departments assist at accident

On Feb. 22, at approximately 07:24 hours, the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office was detailed to a two-vehicle injury accident at Highway 30 and D Road in rural Merrick County. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2020 Kia Sportage was traveling westbound on Highway 30, crossed the center line and collided with a 2008 Ford Mustang that was traveling eastbound.

The driver and sole occupant of the Kia Sportage was identified as Ethan Wibben (20) of Wayne County was transported to St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island for treatment of minor injuries sustained during the accident. The driver of the Ford Mustang was identified as Salea Gillespie (22) of Polk County and was transported to Grand Island Regional Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the accident. A passenger in the Ford Mustang was also transported to a medical facility for treatment of minor injuries. Alcohol and/or drugs are not suspected. The driver of the Kia Sportage was issued a citation. Assistance at the scene was provided by the Nebraska State Patrol, Chapman Fire and Rescue Department, and the Grand Island Rural Fire Department. From the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

that the cancer was caused as a result of serving as a firefighter.

The presumption would be rebuttable, meaning the city, village, fire protection district, or other political subdivision would have to rebut by proving through evidence that the cancer was caused by something other than performing as a firefighter. The legislation also lists several types of cancers associated with several known cancer-causing carcinogens.

At this time, the legislation is still being held by the Committee.

You can track legislative activity by going to the legislative web page, www.nebras kalegislature.gov.

JERRY STILMOCK, Lobbyist

Ryan K. McIntosh, Legal Advisor “Last month I discussed key provisions of the act, including closed session meetings that often leads to compliance issues. This month I will cover what needs to be included in the minutes.”

if holding an emergency meeting or going into closed session.

As noted above, you must have a copy of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act available at your meeting. If your copy is more than a year old, it is likely that it is out of date and needs replaced.

Compliance requires knowledge of these many items. Violations can cause significant issues.

It is important to review the statutes from time to time and reflect on your own internal practices.

The Nebraska Attorney General has a helpful guide to understanding the Nebraska Open Meetings Act available online here: ago.nebraska.gov/open-meetings.

As always, please don’t hesitate to contact me should you have any questions about any of the details or nuances of the Open Meetings Act. RYAN K. MCINTOSH, Legal Advisor

Northeast Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Association Quarterly Meeting The next Northeast Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Association Quarterly Meeting will be held in Battle Creek at their station on May 2, 2025 starting at 8 p.m.

Lunch will be served before the meeting starting at 7:30 and after the meeting.

The program will be on prescribed burns.

MARLENE BOMAR, Secretary/Treasurer

April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 9

FF2 propane emergency drills

FF2 students from Pierce, Hadar, Norfolk, and Clarkson worked on propane emergencies this past weekend (March 1-2). This drill takes a high level of communication and precision. They did a great job! From the Pierce Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

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Nutella® and National Volunteer Fire Council Partner to Support Local Fire Departments through Nutella Stacks for Giving Back $25,000 in fire department grants and 150 pancake breakfast fundraiser kits will be awarded As a brand that aspires to spread smiles for over 60 years, Nutella® is seeking to shine a light on those

who spread positivity in their local communities through “Stacks for Giving Back.” In the second year of the program, Nutella has once again partnered with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to award $25,000 in fire department grants. Consumers can also nominate fire departments to receive a kit to help pull off their next pancake fundraiser.

Volunteer fire departments

often struggle to find adequate funding to purchase needed equipment, recruit and retain firefighters, and keep up with high pressure demands due to increasing call volume, new training requirements, and much more. To help departments secure the necessities they need to best serve their communities, Nutella has partnered with the NVFC to award $5,000 grants to

BATTERIES GO BOOM!

By JERRY KNAPP

What does a spring, stick of dynamite, a propane tank, gasoline and a lithium ion battery have in common? They all are ESS ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS. You may find an energy storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall in a garage or basement) in a home that has solar power. Following are a few details from the NFPA report from the Surprise AZ battery explosion that nearly killed the hazmat team that may save your life at one of these incidents. See the full report at: ULFIRESAFETY.COM SURPRISE AZ 2019

After being on scene several hours the hazmat team opened the door of the battery container.

Those outside described a jet of flame that extended at least 75 feet out and 20 feet vertically. One member was blown 70 feet thru the chain link fence, the other 30 feet from the door,

2 nearby team members were unconscious, helmets and scba ripped off.

FACTS

1. Tremendous lack of knowledge about ESS fire suppression.

2. The extinguishing system in the container does not put the fire out.

3. Company reps on scene were unable to advise the FD on tactics; said the smoke was halon.

4. Thermal runaway can start spontaneously and spread to other batteries.

5. Even a few cells involved produce massive volumes of flammable/explosive and toxic gasses: hydrogen, ethylene, methane and CO. 6. Thermal imagers and hazmat air monitoring instruments are not effective. TICS cannot locate the source of the fire and air monitors clog quickly due to soot.

7. Water may cool/slow down

thermal runaway….. who wants the nozzle at an electrical fire?

8. When cooling water stops the runaway resumes possibly for days or weeks.

9. There may be stranded electrical energy in the damaged battery cells.

BOTTOM LINE: Our job is life safety. Get people out of danger. Do not put firefighters in danger. Let it burn, just my humble opinion of course!

Jerry Knapp is the Chief of the Rockland County, NY Hazmat Team, and is a 49 year veteran Firefighter/EMT with the West Haverstraw NY Fire Department.

He served on the technical panel for the UL residential fire attack study. Knapp is the co-author of two books: House Fires and Tactical Response to Explosive Gas Emergencies published by Fire Engineering He is the owner of Suburban Tactical Inc specializing in fire officer and firefighter training.

PROTECTING OUR HEROES Complete Fire Department Safety & Resuce Solutions

five deserving departments. To be eligible to apply, departments must be over 50% volunteer, serve a population of 25,000 or less, be located in the U.S., and the individual applying or department chief must be a member of the NVFC. Applications are due April 30.

In addition, many fire departments rely on donations received through fundraising activities such as pancake breakfasts.

Nutella hopes to honor and celebrate all that firefighters do by providing them the materials and tasty products they need to hold a fundraising pancake breakfast.

Now through April 30, consumers can nominate their local fire departments for a chance to receive a Nutella Pancake Breakfast Kit that contains the necessary supplies and ingredients to host their next delicious fundraiser.

“Volunteer firefighters are neighbors helping neighbors in their time of need, yet often departments must make do on tight budgets that make it difficult to obtain critical equipment, gear, training, and other necessities,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch.

“We are proud to partner with Nutella for the second year to honor the volunteer fire service and provide much-needed funding to help firefighters do their jobs safely and effectively.”

“There’s no better way to unite communities than by enjoying a delicious pancake breakfast while giving back to those who keep us safe,” said Noah Szporn, senior vice president of spreads, Ferrero North America. “Our firefighters bring such dedication to their work, and Nutella is delighted to show our appreciation through Stacks for Giving Back.”

Learn more and apply for the chance to receive a grant at www.nvfc.org/nutellastacksforgivingback.

Nominate a local department for the chance to win one of 150 Nutella Pancake Breakfast Kits at https://nutellastacksforgivingback.com/nvfc.

In addition, proceeds from the Stacks for Giving Back special through March 31 at the Nutella Café in Chicago will be donated to NVFC’s Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund.

This pancake season don’t forget to share your Nutella pancake breakfast creation and spread the love for your local firehouse on

X, Facebook, and Instagram by using the hashtags #NutellaPancakeBreakfast and #StacksForGivingBack.

ABOUT NUTELLA®

Nutella was born in 1964. The unique hazelnut spread that millions of people around the world love is made with a meticulous selection of high-quality ingredients and an exacting, artisaninspired production. Today, the popular hazelnut spread is available in around 160 countries worldwide and has expanded to offer delicious snacks filled with creamy Nutella, including Nutella Biscuits, Nutella B-ready, and Nutella & Go. ABOUT FERRERO®

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world’s largest sweet-packaged food companies, with over 35 iconic brands sold in more than 170 countries. The Ferrero Group brings joy to people around the world with muchloved treats and snacks including Nutella®, Kinder®, Tic Tac®, and Ferrero Rocher®. More than 38,000 employees are passionate about helping people celebrate life’s special moments. The Ferrero Group’s family culture, now in its third generation, is based on dedication to quality and excellence, heritage and a commitment to the planet and communities in which we operate.

Ferrero entered the North American market in 1969 and has grown to more than 5,100 employees in 15 plants and warehouses, and eight offices in North America across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. It has expanded its presence and portfolio with the addition of iconic brands such as Butterfinger®, CRUNCH®, Keebler®, Famous Amos®, Mother’s Cookies®, and other distinctive cookie and chocolate brands.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER FIRE COUNCIL (NVFC)

The NVFC is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical resources, programs, education, and advocacy for first responders across the nation.

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April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 11

NVFC Reports As always, I hope this article finds everyone healthy and finally warming up after a cold winter. 70 degrees today YAY, than snow on Wednesday….. We live in Nebraska, that’s all I can say.

This month I wanted to share with you an update on NERIS (National Emergency Response System). For those that are unaware. NIFERS, where we all have been submitting our fire reports will be no more. Whether you used NIFERS directly or through a third-party app. It will officially be decommissioned and turned off Jan. 1 of 2026.

That is less than a year away now. Once it sunsets, it will no longer be accessible.

NIFERS was established in 1975. It has not seen an update since 1999. It will be shut off and no more after 51 years of use and over 25 years since any update. NERIS will be replacing this outdated system. Promising to be more user friendly and useful to the user. It will allow departments to track call volume, demographics, location data, response times and more. CAD data will sync with it. Analytics

will be available for your fire department and responses. Reports will be available through NERIS where they are not through NIFERS. I will continue to write more about this in the upcoming months and will probably receive another update at our NVFC Spring meeting in Alexandria in May. But here is some information you should be made aware of now.

NERIS Rollout is now at a pivotal moment—large-scale rollout and onboarding are about to begin.

NFIRS, which will be fully sunset at the beginning of 2026.

The new platform (NERIS) provides a modernized approach to incident reporting and data management, giving departments near real-time insights to improve emergency response. Departments can connect to NERIS in one of two ways: • Using the free NERIS incident data collection app, or • Through a third-party records management system (RMS).

NERIS offers significant im-

Justin Scamehorn, NVFC Director provements over the legacy system (NIFERS), allowing departments to capture more detailed incident types, on-scene actions, and timestamps for key incident milestones. These enhancements provide a richer story of emergency response, including postarrival actions and mutual/automatic aid coordination.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

While our partners in state fire marshals’ offices are helping to spread the word, the NVFC is also helping in ensuring that all fire departments—especially small and under-resourced ones—understand the process ahead.

To prepare for a smooth transition, departments should: • Designate a NERIS lead.

Identify an authorized department member to oversee the transition and serve as an entity administrator in the system.

• List users. Determine who in the department will need NERIS access. If using an RMS, only leadership and administrators may need direct access to NERIS itself.

“This month I wanted to share with you an update on NERIS (National Emergency Response System). For those that are unaware. NIFERS, where we all have been submitting our fire reports will be no more.

Whether you used NIFERS directly or through a third-party app. It will officially be decommissioned and turned off Jan. 1 of 2026.”

• Gather department details.

Ensure readiness by compiling essential information like address, contact details, staffing by station/unit, population served, and jurisdictional boundaries.

• Understand the timeline.

Review the rollout schedule and onboarding plan below to determine when the department should make the transition.

• Familiarize your team with onboarding resources. Access the latest materials at http://neris. fsri.org/

CHOOSING A REPORTING METHOD

Each department must confirm whether it will onboard NERIS via a third-party RMS or the NERIS collection app. If using an RMS, they can switch when their vendor has connected to the NERIS API and enabled the integration in their department profile.

Since RMS platforms must adjust to the NERIS data format, we recommend that departments contact their vendors to confirm their timeline for enabling NERIS. SUPPORT & NEXT STEPS

You can scan this to take you to the website.

Throughout the rollout, self-onboarding tools, training, and educational resources will be available. State fire marshals’ offices have been instrumental in shaping NERIS to meet the needs of agencies across the country.

If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to Joel or myself and we will help you and your departments as best as we can. But for now. PLEASE be sure to keep an eye open for any state wide trainings and roll out information starting in August or possibly sooner if you utilize a third party system that reports to NIFERS such as I AM Responding or other programs.

I also want to remind everyone to keep those fighting fires in Oklahoma and recovering from the tornadoes that ripped through Arkansas and Missouri in our prayers. Lots of responders out there dealing with mother nature this month.

Stay Safe and God Bless all, JUSTIN SCAMEHORN, NVFC Director

Merrick County accident

On Feb. 25 at approximately 3:18 p.m., the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office was detailed to a two-vehicle injury accident at Highway 30 and 26th Road in rural Merrick County.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2019 Peterbilt semi-truck/ trailer was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 and collided with a 2014 Chrysler Town & Country minivan that was attempting to turn north on 26th Road. The minivan was pushed to the south side of Highway 30 and the semi-truck traveled into the north ditch, rolled onto its side and ended up in the south ditch of Highway 30.

The driver and sole occupant of the 2019 Peterbilt semi was identified as John Woodyard (54) of Gage County.

The driver of the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country was identified as Manuel Garcia (22) of Douglas County. There were five passengers in the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country. No injuries were reported by any of the drivers or passengers. Alcohol and/or drugs are not suspected. Seatbelts were used by all occupants of both vehicles. The driver of the 2019 Peterbilt was issued a citation. Assistance at the scene was provided by the Clarks Fire and Rescue Department. From the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office

12 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

Ice Water Rescue certification

Congrats to this group of firefighters who are newly certified in ice water rescue!

Chris Graves, Steve Prince, Kelli Sindt, Clay White, Josh Nichols, Katie Gubbels, Levi Stepp, Scott Abler, and Norfolk Nebraska Fire and Rescue & Battle Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue firefighter Kylie Voecks! A big congrats to Nate Emerson, Paula Bretschneider, and Angie Collins for becoming certified in Shore Support. They play an incredibly important role in water rescue, and it couldn’t be done without them. Steve Dolesh, Mike Ross, Dave Lieneman, and Chris Collins recertified today as well. From the Pierce Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

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April 2025 • Nebraska Firefighter • 13

Scottsbluff Rural called to fire

On Feb. 24 at approximately 3:37 p.m. Scottsbluff Rural was dispatched to Lake Minatare Road for a fire in the area. The fire was a large burn pit. The fire was started due to blowing embers and high winds. They thank Minatare Melbeta Fire Department for their response to this call. Units cleared scene at 4:52 p.m. From the Scottsbluff Rural Fire Protection District Facebook page.

Large fire in Lincoln lumberyard causes explosions Heavy flames, smoke and explosions were reported at the scene of a fire in north Lincoln that burned in a lumberyard late Tuesday.

Acting Battalion Chief Jon Reed said it was unclear where the fire started, but it displaced two residents of a nearby home, caused a brief evacuation of an apartment building and threatened a commercial building near North 22nd and Y streets.

Lincoln firefighters stayed overnight to ensure the fire re-

Valentine VFD Appreciation Banquet

The Valentine Volunteer Fire Department held their Annual Appreciation Banquet recently. Thank you to these firefighters for their dedication and commitment to the Valentine Fire Department.

Pictured from left to right: J.D. Osburn, 25 years; Danny Boes, 10 years; Jason Vaisvilas, 10 years; Ross Brockley, 10 years; Clinton Assarson, 30 years; Johnny Sam Harms, 55 years; and Tim Larson, 20 years. Not pictured J.R. Erickson, 10 years.

mained under control.

“That’s due to the inabilities to put the fire out because fires between layers of lumber that have collapsed on top of each other.

You just can’t get water to it,” Reed said.

When firefighters arrived at about 10 p.m., the residents of the home at 925 Short St. were already safely evacuated, he said.

At a Wednesday news briefing, LFR spokesperson MJ Lierman said that as crews were headed to the scene, they could see the

flames from afar, causing the fire response to be quickly upgraded.

An apartment building owned

by Lincoln Housing Authority at 2259 Y St. was briefly cleared and University of Nebraska-Lincoln students were sent text messages warning them to stay clear of the area.

Propane cylinders stored at the lumberyard and near an RV caused explosions.

Lierman said the fire damaged three buildings in the lumberyard, causing about $40,000

in damage, and the nearby residential home, which sustained $50,000 in damage.

The home had significant exterior damage but no damage to the inside. Multiple vehicles were also damaged, but no damage estimate was available as of Wednesday morning.

Reed said it was “one of the larger incidents” firefighters could face this year. The threealarm fire required an aerial truck, multiple fire engines and six hydrants to fight the fire.

“We’re going to have quite a bit of smoldering fire due to the lumberyard that was involved.

There’s going to be lots of fuel, lots of smoke, lots of little fires over the next several hours,” Reed said.

Lierman said Lincoln police and UNL police are investigating.

(Kearney Hub, Kearney, Mar. 13, 2025; written by Alyssa Johnson and Alex Vargas, staff writers.)

14 • Nebraska Firefighter • April 2025

Crews called to fire near Bartlett On March 10, O’Neill Fire, as well as Atkinson and Ewing, joined Bartlett and other fire departments on a prairie fire north and west of Bartlett.

Chambers Fire Department was already assisting with the fire. Departments were heading to the scene in hopes of keeping the fire from jumping Highway 281. From the O’Neill Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

Incident Command System for Structural Collapse Incidents Course SFM – Training Division Course Announcement The Training Division of the State Fire Marshal’s Office will be hosting the following National Fire Academy direct delivery course: INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURAL COLLAPSE INCIDENTS (F0322)

WHEN: Aug. 9–10, 2025 WHERE: Epply Airfield, 5111

Boeing Ct, Omaha, NE COST: No cost for National Fire Academy Class COURSE DESCRIPTION: This two-day course is designed to provide fire officers with an understanding of command operations at structural collapse incidents. Students completing this course will be able to: describe the aspects of a structural collapse; explain basic command procedures and ICS organizational structure; identify various resource levels, types, and capabilities used for structural collapse incidents; identify critical factors and issues that affect scene management; describe all unique operational considerations used at a structural collapse incident; describe all response operations phases associated with a structural collapse incident; and describe the technical rescue expertise and equipment required for safe operations and effective incident management. Students attending should understand and be able to apply the Incident Command System (ICS) concept. https://nebraskasfmtd.ne.gov/ Courses/Courses_Avail.aspx Once on this page, click on NFA-DD at the top and then click on “register” for the course you are interested in.

PLEASE REMEMBER: The NFA has a policy that there must be a minimum of 15 students registered for a course 40 days in advance of the start of the class in order to give the class approval so please register EARLY.