Pierce Fire and Rescue finished off a very busy weekend with a great night of training on June 30. They worked on hose operations, live fire, car fires, and interior attacks. The one picture is pure beauty for us to see in training. What you are seeing is the thermal layer. The black “line” you see just above the firefighters’ helmets is the distinct separation between the hotter gasses and the cooler gasses. There can be extreme temperature differences (hundreds of degrees) sometimes in just a matter of inches. This is one great example of why we stress to stay low when escaping a fire. Properly identifying this layer is crucial for firefighters as it can tell us a lot about fire behavior and what can be coming next. Not reading these environments correctly can lead to an upset in that thermal balance, effectively creating large volumes of steam, bringing the hot gasses down which can lead to several different catastrophic results for firefighters. From the Pierce Fire and Rescue Facebook page.
Scottsbluff car fire
One June 20, Scottsbluff Fire Department was called to a car fire in the Jimmy Johns parking lot.
Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.
Upcoming Events 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.
First responders and employees of a central Nebraska business work together Monday to free a man who was trapped following a collision involving a car and bike. Authorities first responded to the crash just before 11:50 a.m. Monday near the intersection of Nineteenth St. and M Ave. - outside the parking lot of Andersen wrecking company.
While on scene, NCN observed Anderson wrecking employees working with first responders to lift the white SUV in order to free the bike-rider who was trapped underneath. According to KPD, the man was riding his bike on the sidewalk while the white SUV was pulling out of the parking lot when the crash occurred.
The bike-rider was transported to CHI Health Good Sam in Kearney with non-life-threatening injuries, according to authorities. He was wearing his helmet during the collision. The driver of the SUV was treated on scene out of caution. The accident remains under investigation by KPD.
(News Channel Nebraska, July 8, 2025) Cyclist trapped under SUV rescued by first responders and nearby employees in Kearney
AUG. 1 & 2: NSVFA Board Meeting at Chadron
AUG. 5: National “Night Out”
AUG. 7-8, 2025: AHLS’s Train with the Best, Columbus Fire Department, Main Station, 4630 Howard Blvd.
AUG. 8-9, 2025: Mid-Nebraska Mutual Aid Association’s Mini Fire School, hosted by Albion Fire & Rescue.
AUG. 9, 2025: Let’s Celebrate Smokey Bear’s Birthday at the Nebraska Firefighters Museum & Education Center, 2834 E. 1st St., Kearney, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., games for all ages, food, raffle prizes and education exhibits. Hosted by NSVFA Fire Prevention Team.
AUG. 9-10, 2025: SFM – Training Division Course - Incident Command Systems for Structural Collapse Incidents (F0322) Course, Epply Airfield, 5111 Boeing Ct, Omaha.
AUG. 10, 2025: Ogallala Volunteer Fire Department’s Pulled Pork Fundraiser, freewill donation, served with smokehouse beans, chips and cookies.
AUG. 10, 2025: Northeast Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Assoc. Annual Meeting, Clarkson Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, Clarkson, 3 p.m.
AUG. 16, 2025: Milford Water Fights, in front of the fire station in Milford, sign up starts at 9 a.m., fights at 10 a.m., 3 person teams, full gear – bunker pants, coat, helmet. Trophies for top 3 teams.
AUG. 16, 2025: Maxwell Volunteer Fire Department and No Excuse Bullriding presents Bull Riding Extravaganza, 6 p.m., east of the Maxwell Village Park, Maxwell, for kids: Mutton Bustin’ Steer Riding, registration begins at 5 p.m.
SEPT. 12-14: Engine Academy at Gering - This is a great opportunity to obtain additional signatures in your task books.
SEPT. 20, 2025: McCool Volunteer Fire Department 3rd Annual Rib Cookoff, all you can eat ribs at 5 p.m., Main Street, McCool. Free will donation, all proceeds go to McCool Volunteer Fire Department. Team info – Judges turn in at 3 p.m. Live Music by The Blue Collar Band. Contact Adam Beck to sign up 402-724-8030.
SEPT. 21, 2025: Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Service at Kearney (Museum & Ed. Center). Time: 2 p.m. (Meet at Holiday Inn in the event of rain)
OCT. 9, 2025: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, West Nebraska Regional Airport (Annual Meeting).
OCT. 16-18, 2025: NSVFA Annual Conference, Kearney. DEC. 6, 2025: Dakota City Fire Department’s Winter Craft/ Vendor Show, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 208 S. 21st St., Dakota City.
JAN. 8, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, West Nebraska Regional Airport (Annual Meeting).
MAR. 21, 2026: 10th Annual Nebraska Fire Chiefs Association, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Holthus Convention Center, 3130 Holen Ave., York, NE. Speaker will be Chief Doug Cline.
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.
Less of You, More of Them: A Nozzleman’s Approach to the Fire Room
By COLE KLEINWOLTERINK
I once took a class where the instructor compared the closequarters combat technique known as “slicing the pie” to firefighting. Now, I’m no trained tactical operator, but the illustration stuck with me. It painted a clear picture of how to properly approach the doorway of a fire compartment with intention, control, and awareness.
“Slicing the pie,” also known as “pie-ing,” is a tactical close quarters movement technique used to systematically clear a room by gradually moving around a corner of the doorframe in smooth motion with deliberate, controlled movements. This method allows for controlled engagement while minimizing personal exposure to threats. The speed of movement should never exceed your ability to identify and respond to what’s on the other side; similar to driving: never go faster than you can see and stop.
Done correctly, the tactic maximizes the use of cover and concealment while methodically clearing unknown space, leading to “less of you, more of them.”
So how does this apply to firefighting?
When the nozzle firefighter reaches the doorway of the fire room, they should adopt a similar approach to “slicing the pie” while flowing water into the fire compartment.
Think of the advance from the hallway to the fire room as a tactical entry. “Slicing the pie”
on the fireground means using the near side of the doorway as your axis point, and using the reach of the stream to cool the room. The “less of you, more of them” principle applies as well. By rounding the corner from a distance and flowing water into the compartment, you reduce radiant heat exposure which we know is the type of thermal energy our gear offers the least protection against. The more you can do from outside the threshold, the better.
And just like in close quarters combat: “never move faster than you can effectively engage the target.” On the fireground, that translates to moving deliberately and not rushing to cross the threshold of the fire room.
Avoid getting “sucked into cover.” In movies, you’ll see characters press up against a wall before blindly turning their whole body into a doorway or corner. When we do that, we sacrifice awareness. Creating space away from the door, rather than hugging it, allows you to see more of the room and gives you better situational awareness. With this in mind, when advancing toward a fire room, the nozzle firefighter should take the opposite side of the hallway. If the room is on the right, advance along the left wall if possible. This provides a better angle for water application and allows the stream to hit the doorframe and deflect water into the fire compartment before entry (see picture). So although the nozzle firefighter wants to use the near
side door frame as their turning axis, they should do it from the opposite side wall.
To illustrate this point, have a friend or family member stand inside a room while you “slice the pie” from outside. The farther you are from the door, the more of the room you’ll be able to see as you move. Watch videos of elite military units doing CQB— you’ll notice the guy on the right side of the hallway is watching the left, and vice versa. It’s all about working the angles.
This ties directly into processing speed. If you don’t get sucked into cover and instead maintain distance, you give your brain more time to assess and de-
cide. Your ability to process information depends on your training, experience, and natural skill but adding space improves your decision-making window. At first glance, it may seem like tactics from military or law enforcement don’t belong in the fire service. But when you break it down, the principles of spatial control, deliberate movement, and reducing exposure align perfectly with what we do. Our tools may be different, but the need for precision in high-risk environments is the same. Slicing the pie is just one more way we can improve our approach and own the space we’re working in, one corner at a time.
TRAINING OBJECTIVES
Upon completion the firefighter should be able to….
• Demonstrate proper nozzle positioning and movement when approaching a fire room using the “slicing the pie” technique.
• Identify the tactical benefits of maintaining distance and angling when flowing water into a fire compartment.
Cole Kleinwolterink is a member of the Waukee Fire Department, Granger Fire Department, and Fire Science instructor at Des Moines Area Community College. Feel free to reach out to him at kleinwolterinkc@gmail.com with any questions, comments or inquiries.
Embers in firepit believed to be cause of Kearney structure fire
Embers from a firepit are thought to have caused a structure fire Tuesday morning at 1822 Sixth Ave.
Thirty-three members of the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department responded at 3:31 a.m. and brought the fire under control at 4:20 a.m.
When KVFD arrived, the bulk of the fire was burn-
ing the back side of the home, so firefighters attacked the fire from that side. Crews also entered the house and confirmed that all occupants were out of the home. No injuries were reported.
KVFD requested the state fire marshal’s assistance in confirming the cause of the fire. The preliminary investigation indicates the fire was accidental and was
caused by embers from a firepit. Other agencies assisting at the scene were the Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, CHI Health Good Samaritan, EMS, Nebraska Public Power District and Northwestern Energy. (Kearney Hub, Kearney, June 18, 2025; written by Mike Konz, Enterprise editor.)
Lancaster County boat fire
The passenger of a boat on Branched Oak Lake had to swim to shore after it caught fire Thursday morning, July 10. Raymond Fire and Rescue and Nebraska Game and Parks were called to the lake in northwest Lancaster County just after 11 a.m. A photo showed the boat up in flames in the middle of the lake. Game and Parks said a 35-year-old man was the lone occupant of the Baja motorboat when it caught fire after having mechanical issues. The man unsuccessfully tried to put out the blaze with two fire extinguishers. The man eventually decided to swim to shore and declined medical attention after the incident. The boat, valued at $31,500, was recovered by a towing company. Nebraska Game and Parks is investigating the fire.
Kenny Krause
2nd
Vice
I would appreciate your support
Interior, USDA Forest Service Expand Mental Health Support for Federal Wildland Firefighters and Dispatchers
Today, the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service announced federal wildland firefighters and dispatchers now have access to expanded mental health support through a network of licensed providers. As mandated by Congress, the new therapy service is designed to address the unique needs of those in emergency management positions.
Wildland firefighters and support staff work in dangerous, high-stress environments that can expose them to trauma and cumulative stress, increasing their risk of mental health challenges. The new service provides a network of licensed providers, who have expertise in addressing the mental health needs of emergency responders.
“Through the dedication and perseverance of our wildland firefighters and dispatchers, the Interior Department continues to protect communities, critical infrastructure, and natural resources from the threat of wildfires,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug
Burgum. “By providing essential tools to bolster their resilience, we are strengthening our wildland fire workforce so we can better defend against the growing threat of wildfires across the United States.”
“Firefighters and first responders put their lives on the line to protect us, our resources and our communities. We are so grateful for their service, and we are happy to provide them with more support if they need it,” said U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins. “As we approach peak fire season, access to mental health services for our firefighters and first responders will now be easier and more convenient so we can continue to have the best wildland firefighting force in the world.”
This service is just one of the resources available through the Federal Wildland Firefighter Health and Wellbeing Program to support the mental and physical health of wildland fire personnel.
Jointly led by the Agriculture and Interior departments, the program
seeks to improve our understanding of the short- and long-term mental and physical health effects of working in wildland fire, and to position the departments to better address these health risks.
The new therapy service includes year-round access to confidential therapy sessions with licensed mental health professionals who understand the demands of emergency response work. Providers will be available in every state. The service is offered to permanent, temporary, seasonal and year-round wildland firefighters and dispatchers with the USDA Forest Service and the Interior Department’s Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The new service is part of a broader effort by the federal government to improve recruitment and retention across the wildland fire workforce and position the Nation to more effectively respond to wildfires and mitigate future risk.
Emergency personnel respond to crash on Highway 34 in Hamilton County
Emergency personnel were on scene at a crash on Highway 34 in Hamilton County on Wednesday. Crews were called just before 5 p.m. to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 34 near the bridge over the Platte River. A
white van was seen on its roof on the side of the road.
Details are still limited, but deputies from Hall County and Hamilton County were on scene investigating. The Nebraska State Patrol and Grand Island and Phil-
lips Rural Fire were also assisting. According to Nebraska 511, Highway 34 westbound between Highway 2 and Sunset Terrace Road was closed due to the crash. (KSNB-TV 4, Hastings, June 26, 2025)
Alliance crews called to garage fire
On July 1, at approximately 5 a.m., the Alliance Fire Department was dispatched to a fully involved attached garage fire in the 1600 block of Emerson Avenue. The fire department responded with a fire engine, an aerial ladder platform, an ambulance and a heavy rescue truck. Upon arrival, the sole occupant was outside of the home. Crews made quick work of containing the main fire to the garage with limited spread into the house. The inside of the home suffered from water and smoke damage, as well as extreme heat throughout. Unfortunately, one pet did perish inside the home from smoke inhalation. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigator from Ogallala was called to the scene to assist in determining the cause and origin of the fire. From The Alliance Fire Department Facebook page.
Smokey sez Smokey Sez
By BOB HECKMAN
This month’s article is written in memory of Andrew Kastens, Syrcause VFD, 10/18/1939 gone but not forgotten. This caught my eye while driving through the rural areas. I noticed how tall the corn is. Please be careful on approaching intersections in the rural areas, you do not need to meet people by accident. With all the climate changes around us, please pay extra attention to the weather living in Nebraska. We know in an instant weather can change. There are many apps on weather, please pick one you
feel comfortable with. My app I use at work not only gives me weather but also alerts me to lightning strikes.
Last of all, I know the harvest is a few months away. Are your tankers and grass rigs ready? Think about the last time you checked the oil or gas level in your portable pump.
This month’s spotlight is on Plainview VFD. 2024 calls: 21 fire, 10 auto accidents: 456 call hours, last of all - 1600 for training.....
BOB HECKMAN, Plattsmouth Fire
Classifieds 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.
FOR SALE: 1998 Spartan Gladiator 8-man RD Murray/LTI 105’ Aerial, 2,000 pump, loaded with options. Chief Dan Roghair 712-395-2824 FF-1
#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
NSVFA OFficer Reports NSVFA Officer Reports
By the time you read this we will have already met in Chadron for the August E-board and Fire School meeting and hopefully all will have safe travels and great conversations about the upcoming year. Will then head to Kearney for the Memorial service on Sept. 21st, and back to Kearney again for the annual conference on Oct. 16th thru the 19th. Please mark these dates and attend if possible. They are important for all of us to honor the past and thrive in the future!
The weather in western Nebraska has definitely changed into full summer time, and with that we all have to help spread the word of fire safety. This is the time when one little slip becomes
The work of volunteer first responders—firefighters and EMS workers—is fundamental to the safety and well-being of communities across Nebraska. Your commitment and service play a crucial role in responding to emergencies and saving lives. While you may not wear a uniform that symbolizes superhuman powers, your tireless efforts, selflessness, and sacrifice are deeply appreciated and invaluable to all of us.
Sadly, our firefighter heroes are not invincible, and it’s essential that we take time each year to remember and honor those we’ve lost. The Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA) annual memorial service provides a significant opportunity to do just that. This service serves multiple purposes: it honors fallen firefighters, preserves their memory, fosters unity and camaraderie within the firefighting community, inspires the next generation of responders, and acknowledges the vital contributions of volunteer fire departments to the community.
a big problem. Hopefully as we all help teach our communities and rural area residents the importance of being conscious of our fire hazards, and how prevention leads to happiness!
As I traveled north this past month it was great to see the Seat planes (2 of them) in Hot Springs, South Dakota, and the mountains in Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington State have snow pack still in them! The snow I’m sure will not last much longer but at least it is better than last year at this time. That being said it will be harder to get access to rural water, so keep that in mind as we start to dry out. Please stay sharp on water supplies in your areas for the quickest response to aid.
By remembering the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of those who came before us, we ensure that their legacies live on. The NSVFA organizes this annual event to give fire departments the opportunity to come together, reflect, and pay tribute to those who gave their all in service to others. It is a moment for the entire community to acknowledge the sacrifices made and express gratitude for the individuals who risked everything to keep us safe. If your department lost a member in 2024, we invite you to submit their name for inclusion in the 2025 NSVFA Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. You can submit their name easily by visiting the NSVFA website at https:// www.nsvfa.org/memorial-service and follow the submission link. This is a meaningful way to honor their memory and provide support to their families during this difficult time. By coming together as one community, we ensure that the sacrifices of these brave individuals are never forgotten.
As we gather each year to
Scott Schremmer, Presi dent
“It’s that time… Ok you fire specialist’s and new young firefighters, what does the acronym PASS stand for??? I’ll be waiting on some answers this month! ”
Sometimes it helps if everyone on the department can help the chiefs and let them concentrate on the bigger problems at hand.
It’s that time… Ok you fire specialist’s and new young firefighters, what does the acronym
PASS stand for??? I’ll be waiting on some answers this month! Stay safe and God Bless the Volunteer!
SCOTT SCHREMMER, President
“ The Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA) annual memorial service serves multiple purposes: it honors fallen firefighters, preserves their memory, fosters unity and camaraderie within the firefighting community, inspires the next generation of responders, and acknowledges the vital contributions of volunteer fire departments to the community. ”
honor those who have given so much, we also recognize that the work of first responders continues, and their legacy serves as a beacon for all of us. The annual memorial service is not just a time of remembrance, but also a moment of reflection for those still serving. It’s a time to renew our commitment to the values that these heroes upheld—courage, service, and selflessness— and pass those values on to future generations of volunteers.
We hope you can join us on September 21st at 2:00 p.m. in Kearney, NE, at the Nebraska Firefighters Museum and Edu-
Legal Advisor’s Report Legal Advisor’s Report
N.S.V.F.A. Members, I have had several calls this summer regarding various cooperation agreements between municipalities and rural or suburban fire protection districts. There are many different options and departments across the state have very different agreements in place. In short, your department should do what works best for you. In some instances, the municipality will take the primary responsibility for supporting the department with reimbursement from the rural or suburban fire protection district. In others, the rural or suburban fire protection district will take the primary role with monetary support from the
municipality. Others will share in the responsibility with one entity owning the vehicles, and the other owning the fire hall or paying for insurance. Another option is to merge the municipality with the rural or suburban fire protection district. I will write more on that process next month.
The common factor in all of these arrangements is that the agreements should be reduced to writing and formalized via an interlocal agreement. The Interlocal Cooperation Act, found at Neb. Rev. Stat. §13-801, et seq., is a Nebraska law that allows political subdivisions to enter into formal agreements. This allows for political subdivisions to pool
cation Center to honor these remarkable individuals. Let’s continue to celebrate their legacy and inspire the next generation of volunteer first responders to follow in their footsteps.
As always, if you have a meeting or event you’d like me to attend, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to seeing you in Kearney on September 21st.
Until then, stay safe and healthy.
BRENDA JENNY 1st Vice President, NSVFA
Ryan K. McIntosh, Legal Advisor
“Each governing body should pass its own resolution adopting the agreement and authorizing signature of the agreement. This can go a long way to preventing disputes down the road.”
resources and expenses to make the most efficient use of equipment and tax dollars.
Once an interlocal agreement is prepared, it should be presented to the governing body of each political subdivision (e.g., city council or rural board). Each governing body should pass its own resolution adopting the agreement and authorizing signature of the agreement. This can go a long way to preventing disputes down the road.
As indicated above, I will
write next month regarding merger. This process allows incorporated cities or villages to be merged, or included into the territorial boundaries of a rural or suburban fire protection district, and thereafter levy taxes within the corporate limits of the city or village.
As always, don’t hesitate to contact me with questions.
RYAN K. MCINTOSH, N.S.V.F.A. Legal Advisor
Brenda Jenny , 1st Vice Presi dent
NSVFA OFficer Reports NSVFA Officer Reports
Everyone, I’d like to start off by announcing that I have decided to run for Second Vice at our annual meeting in October. To give you a little background about myself, I became a member of this Association the same time I joined the Fairbury Rural Fire Department in 1992. I have held the offices of Secretary/Treasurer, Trustee, Captain, Assistant Chief and Chief. I gave up the Chief position in 2024, and still hold an elected office as Trustee.
I am a member of the Nebraska Fire Chief’s Association, and have held the offices of Vice President and President for three years and helped organize the Fire Chiefs Symposium that was held in Beatrice.
My involvement with the NSVFA didn’t really begin until about 10 years ago, which really
Lots of meetings and trainings coming up so add these on your calendar if you haven’t already done so:
Aug 1 & 2: NSVFA Board Meeting at Chadron
Aug 5: National “Night Out”
Sept 12-14: Engine Academy at Gering - This is a great opportunity to obtain additional signatures in your task books.
Sept 21: Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Service at Kearney (Museum & Ed. Center).
saddens me. The Fairbury Rural Fire Department was not active in the Association, like so many other fire departments across the state that are members. A priority must be given to allow for the time that it requires to have an active role. I wish I could remember what motivated me to attend the first conference I went to. With that being said, I haven’t missed one since. One of the things that keeps me coming back is the people and the great friends LeAnn and I have made, that all have the common goal of bettering the fire service in Nebraska. My involvement with the Association started out as an Area Rep, and then I was asked to serve on the Legislative Committee which developed into a real passion, to represent all our members at the Nebraska State
Time: 2 pm. (Meet at Holiday Inn in the event of rain)
Oct 16-18: NSVFA Annual Meeting @ Kearney.
Kudos to Governor Jim Pillen for dispatching the Nebraska Task Force One (Urban Search & Rescue Team) to the floodstricken areas in and around Kerr County, TX.
During the very early morning hours of July 4, the Guadalupe River rose 20 feet in less than one hour. This was 30 feet above
NVFC Reports NVFC Reports
Volunteer Firefighters
Gather
for 2025
NVFC Training Summit in Salt Lake City
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) hosted its annual Training Summit in Salt Lake City, bringing together over 175 fire and emergency service leaders from 44 states to share knowledge, strengthen skills, and build stronger connections in the volunteer fire service.
Since its inception in 2014, the NVFC Training Summit has served as a national platform for volunteer firefighters and EMS providers to engage in high-impact learning and collaboration. This year’s summit focused on three primary training tracks: volunteer recruitment and retention, first responder health and safety, and emergency service leadership.
Nebraska was well-represented at the event, with attendees including John and Marlene Bomar (Battle Creek), Mark Stevens (Ralston), Scott Bowen (Ponca Hills), Daniel Chapek (Weston), and Joel Cerny. Notably, Daniel Chapek presented a breakout session titled “Unlock the Power of AI: Boost Efficiencies in Recruitment, Retention and Leadership,” which became one of the most talked-about sessions of the weekend.
Capital. Due to my involvement in the Legislative Committee, I decided to fill the term of District 4 Director, and then ran for that office when the first term ended. I was asked to serve on the fire school committee at the same time. This has become something that I look forward to each year and am thankful that I am able to help out there the week prior to fire school.
This time of year, brings the annual trip to Chadron for the Association and Fire School budget meetings, and Fire School comment review. I can assure you that both the Fire School Committee and the E Board are doing all we can to keep costs down and still provide the best service possible. Some hard decisions have had to be made recently. Cuts have had to be made,
the usual water level.
As of this writing, 119 people are dead (including 30 children) and 173 others are still missing.
Our prayers go out to those in their time of need including hundreds of first responders coming from all across the country.
DARRELL VANCE, District 1 Director
Kenny Krause, District 4 Director
“I have decided to run for Second Vice at our annual meeting in October. To give you a little background about myself, I became a member of this Association the same time I joined the Fairbury Rural Fire Department in 1992.”
and dues and tuitions have had to be raised. Neither of these was taken lightly. Expenses seem to get higher and higher and we try to do the best we can to not have to raise fees, we understand that everyone else works under budget restraints also. I am humbled to work with so many other great leaders that make up the leadership of the NSVFA. My hope is that we can continue to get stronger through
retaining members and recruiting new ones. I’ll finish up by saying that it is important to get as many members to conference as we can to help make decisions and elect officers to achieve this goal.
As always, stay safe,
KENNY KRAUSE, District 4 Representative
Darrell Vance , District 1 Director
“Kudos to Governor Jim Pillen for dispatching the Nebraska Task Force One (Urban Search & Rescue Team) to the flood-stricken areas in and around Kerr County, TX.”
To support nationwide participation, the NVFC awarded travel stipends to 60 attendees. Each stipend covered up to $800 for travel, lodging, and conference registration, helping to offset the financial burden of attending the Summit.
SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS
INCLUDED:
Eighteen classroom sessions presented by nationally recognized experts on topics critical to today’s fire service.
Keynote speeches by fire service leader Tom Merrill, focusing on leadership and department culture, and firefighter/social media influencer Savannah Maddison, who shared strategies for leveraging social media to enhance recruitment and community engagement.
A vendor reception on June 20 that featured 20 exhibitors and served as a key networking opportunity for attendees.
A train-the-trainer session that certified 18 new NVFC instructors in leadership, culture, hazmat, and electric/alternative fuel vehicle safety.
The 2025 NVFC Training Summit was made possible through funding from a FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant and a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant.
Looking ahead, the 2026 NVFC Training Summit is
scheduled for June 26-27 in Ar lington, VA. Those interested in participating can sign up to receive updates on registration, travel stipends, and the call for presentations.
For more information about the NVFC Training Summit or to get involved, visit org
J oel Cerny, NVFC Director
“Since its inception in 2014, the NVFC Training Summit has served as a national platform for volunteer firefighters and EMS providers to engage in high-impact learning and collaboration. This year’s summit focused on three primary training tracks: volunteer recruitment and retention, first responder health and safety, and emergency service leadership.”
O’Neill called to vehicle fire
On July 7, at 17:43 O’Neill Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a vehicle on fire traveling east down the highway. By the time two of the department captains and a deputy were on scene, the cab was fully engulfed. They had one firetruck occupied with four firefighters and one ambulance respond. Quick and effective work by the firefighters had the fire out in no time.
Oakdale ‘worst fire as far as smoke’
The Morrison family was on the main level of their home in Oakdale when they saw smoke coming from upstairs.
“We got out and called 911,” said Ray Morrison, Jr., who was living at his father’s home in Oakdale when it caught fire last Thursday around 10:50 a.m. “We got our dogs out, but they wouldn’t let us go in for the kittens.”
Oakdale Fire Chief Matt Wilkinson said the house fire at 304 6 th Street in Oakdale was ruled undetermined in cause. Wilkinson, who was first on the scene, made entry and said the smoke was so thick that he did not see flames immediately. Flames were later seen upstairs but put out quickly.
“It was very hot,” Wilkinson said. “There was a lot of material upstairs that was smoldering, so there wasn’t enough oxygen for flames. It was smoldering, so there was a lot of heat and a lot of smoke.
It was one of the worst fires as far as the smoke was concerned.”
Wilkinson said the state fire marshal’s office ruled the fire undetermined but officials could not rule out smoking materials. He said the fire started next to a closet on the second floor of the northeast corner of the home.
Owned by Ray Morrison, the home was occupied by his son and daughter-in-law when the fire was discovered. The owner was not home when the fire broke out. His son and daughter-in-law both escaped without injury. Wilkinson said the kittens were later found by firefighters safe on the main level.
Wilkinson said the fire did get into the attic of the home but did not reach the roof. About half of the home was damaged. The kitchen ceiling collapsed from water, and there was smoke damage throughout
Bellevue FD undergoes training
Bellevue Fire Department is in the process of training the majority of their members in rope, confined space, and trench rescue. Call volume across the metro is increasing as are community expectations. Kudos to BFD on preparing their members for these challenging types of incidents that are on the increase. Metro Fire Academy is honored to provide this training. From the MCC Fire Facebook page.
the second floor. The fire marshal’s office released the home to the owners that evening.
Wilkinson said he called for back-up due to the heat and needing to pack up and go into the house. Firefighters from Neligh and Elgin both responded to the call as mutual aid.
“It didn’t look that bad, so I thought if we could get it stopped with a grass rig, then we could set the truck,” Wilkinson said upon arrival. “I got out of the house and knew I should make that call. Neligh’s guys are always more than willing to come and help. It’s easier with more guys.”
Also responding to the scene was the Antelope County Sheriff’s Office and Nebraska Public Power District.
(Orchard Antelope County News, Orchard, July 2, 2025; written by Carrie Pitzer, publisher.)
LPG TRUCK FIRE
By JERRY KNAPP
The LODD report for this routine truck fire stated that two of your members were burned severely over 85% of their bodies. They had all their gear on, lived for 2 days but succumbed to the internal and external burns. It was just a routine truck fire, a bottled water delivery truck at that. The funerals were massive.
The first in engine had some of your best firefighters on board and they made an aggressive attack on this fully involved truck. But look closely at the picture. Under the driver’s door is a liquid propane tank. New name for it is auto gas. The propane relief valve activated just as the line was getting water. Look closer, the relief valve is in the liquid portion of the tank. Investiga-
tors are not sure if it was liquid propane that came out of the relief valve or just a gaseous propane jet. Members were enveloped in fire for only a few seconds. It got under their coats and they inhaled superheated air. No, they did not have their facepieces on.
TACTICAL REMINDERS:
1) PROPANE TANKS: cool the tank to prevent it from exploding (BLEVE). When it does explode, expect a ground level fire ball will envelop the area. Tank fragments will fly far and near killing anyone in their path. Operating relief valves are not designed to prevent a BLEVE. If the relief valve is making a high pitch scream, take cover.
2) COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) TANKS: DO NOT COOL THE TANK IF IT
Northeast Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Association Annual Meeting Planned
It is again time to start to plan on attending the Annual Northeast Nebraska Volunteer Firefighters Association Annual Meeting, which will be held on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 in Clarkson, NE. The meeting will start at 3:00 p.m.
The program will be by Roger and Terry who will give a presentation about the explosion in O’Neil and how they worked through it.
The ladies will get to tour their museum and the Blue Bird Nursery.
After the program there will be a social hour and the banquet will follow.
Items of importance for the day are:
•Association business
•Election of officers
•Host departments for the coming year
•Finances for the Association
•Goals for the upcoming year
Consider running for an office or hosting one of the quarterly meetings. We will also be awarding the years of service awards and the presentation of the Cox (Bill and Kreg) Award for the most members from a department attending this meeting. If you have sent a member or members in for the years of service awards, please have them in attendance if possible.
Your dues must be paid to vote, run for an office, or host a meeting. Send your department dues now if you have not done so already. The social hour allows time to reflect on the present and the good old times of the past.
If you have never attended one of the meetings, please consider getting some of your department members together and attend. It is a way of meeting other department members and having a great time. Keep in mind that together we can build a stronger association.
IS INVOLVED IN FIRE. Relief valves on CNG tanks are activated by heat; you want it to open. Cooling it, preventing it from opening may result in a tank explosion as described above. Note: the tank is about 2’ in diameter and 7’ long. Note the exposed fittings and newly added head shield.
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.
The social hour and banquet will complete the day’s activities.
Please mark your calendars and plan to attend the Northeast meeting on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 in Clarkson at the Clarkson Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.
Gary Davis walked into church Sunday morning wearing burnt shoes, no socks, shorts given to him from a firefighter and the tshirt from his umpire uniform. Those were the only clothes he had left.
Just hours earlier, the retired wrestling coach watched a fire destroy the home he shares with his 12-year-old granddaughter outside of Neligh. At 11:30 p.m., she should have been in bed asleep and not in the living room playing on her phone.
“Thank God she wasn’t,” Gary said, choking back tears. “Neither one of us would be here today if she’d have gone to bed like she was supposed to. I owe everything to that little girl. Forget about the house. That can be replaced, I don’t know what I’d have done if I lost her.”
Paisley Kohl was sitting in the chair playing on her phone when she saw flames burst through the living room wall.
Shocked, Paisley vaulted up and immediately started screaming, “Fire! Fire!” as she ran through the home. Sleeping in his bedroom on the other end of the house, she jolted Gary awake.
“The flames were prob-
ably 20 to 30 feet high by the time we got out. There wasn’t much time,” Gary said. “The bathroom was completely on fire. We ran next to the wall and got away from the flames.”
Standing outside their home at 84887 525 Ave., Paisley still had her phone in her hands. Gary used it to call 911.
It was July 5 and many of Neligh’s volunteer firefighters were out of town since it was a holiday weekend. Still, 18 firefighters from Neligh with eight trucks showed up. There was also mutual aid from Elgin, Clearwater and Oakdale.
Neligh Assistant Fire Chief Dave Jacobsen was first on the scene and said the home was fully involved when he arrived. Jacobsen said the fire — which was ruled accidental and a total loss — started on the rear covered porch, had moved into the living room and was already in the rafters when firefighters arrived.
About to be a seventh-grader at Neligh-Oakdale, Paisley was whisked away to a friend’s house while firefighters fought the blaze. A Hall of Fame wrestling coach, Gary had just retired from Neligh-Oakdale in May after 38
years as the physical education teacher. He couldn’t believe he was watching his home burn down.
Five of the firefighters on scene — including Jacobsen — wrestled for Gary. As the retired coach talked about the fire, he kept going back to the effort they put in to try and save whatever they could for him. In the basement were boxes of memories — photos, medals, newspaper clippings. Jacobsen said he could have told them to stop, but he knew the firefighters just wanted to help their coach.
“Those wrestlers just kept bringing stuff out,” Gary said, looking at the soot-covered boxes of memories.
Framed photos were blanketed with black soot on the glass, covering up pictures of him hugging wrestlers at state, celebrating historic victories. But the biggest victory, Gary said, was that he and Paisley were still alive.
“We are blessed,” he said. “God was watching over us.”
Firefighters left the scene at 2:30 a.m. Sunday morning. Six hours later — at 8:30 a.m. — Gary walked into the Oakdale Faith Community Church. Gary said he knew he needed to “put my butt in the pew this morn-
ing.”
He laughed as he described what he looked like sitting there.
“I was in my underwear during the fire. That’s all I had. Someone went and got a pair of shorts, but I didn’t have a shirt. My umpire stuff was right there,” he said, pointing in his shed. “I happened to have a white t-shirt that I wore under it, so I went to church with no socks, burnt shoes, my shorts and my white t-shirt.”
Gary said he received a strange look when he walked in, but he just sat down in the pew. Not far away, several people started talking about a fire in Neligh. They even asked Gary if he knew anything about it. Gary just shook his head, “No.” Soon another person came in talking about a big fire in Neligh. That’s when Gary fessed up.
“I thought, ‘I probably better not lie twice in church,’” Gary said. “So I told them it was me.”
Gary said it didn’t occur to him not to go to church that morning.
After all, he left his Bible in his vehicle instead of taking it inside the house — another sign he should go to church.
“God took care of that little kid,” he said. “I needed to be there.”
Jacobsen said “that little kid”
took care of her grandpa, who was sleeping when the fire broke out.
“Gary is very fortunate to have his granddaughter wake him up to get out of the fire,” Jacobsen said. “She’s the hero of the day. They wouldn’t have made it out of that fire otherwise.”
The family plans to temporarily move into a furnished home in Neligh while they work through the insurance process. An account has been set up at Pinnacle Bank in Neligh and a Venmo account at @Gary-Davis-Coach is available for those wanting to donate.
Gary said he’s overwhelmed by the number of people who have offered to help him and Paisley.
“We don’t have family here, but I have a thousand sons and some daughters,” he said with tears in his eyes. “There are so many good people here. I’m blessed. Yeah, we lost the house, but Paiz and I are really blessed.”
(Orchard Antelope County News, Orchard, July 9, 2025; written by Carrie Pitzer, publisher.)
Lexington completes complex training
On June 19, the Lexington Volunteer Fire Department trained hard and trained smart—splitting up to take on three complex rescue scenarios. Scenario 1 involved a race car driver pinned in his vehicle, testing our ability to stay calm and precise in a tight space. Scenario 2 was a vehicle versus pole—real-world crash dynamics that demanded quick thinking and strong coordination. Scenario 3 simulated a fall from a train car, with an unconscious subject suspended by a harness—a unique challenge that brought rail safety and technical rescue together. After each group wrapped their scenario, we came together to debrief, share insights, and learn from each other. These moments of reflection are where experience becomes wisdom. We train like this so we’re ready—because in this line of work, readiness means everything. From the Lexington Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page.
Let’s Celebrate Smokey Bear’s Birthday
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Nebraska Firefighters Museum & Education Center
2834 E. 1st Street
Kearney, Nebraska
From 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Games for All Ages
Delicious Food Raffle Prizes
Educational Exhibits
Don’t miss this opportunity to honor Smokey Bear’s legacy and enjoy a day of community celebration.
Remember, only YOU can prevent wildfires!
Hosted by NSVFA Fire Prevention Team
Battle Creek Fire and Rescue Calls
The Battle Creek Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad report that for June 16, 2025-June 29, 2025, three dispatches were received. The first dispatch was received at approximately 1:30 p.m., Thursday, June 19, 2025. For this dispatch, the Volunteer Fire Department responded to an evacuation drill for a report of a gas leak at the Community Pride Care Center.
The second dispatch was received at approximately 12:25 p.m., Friday, June 27, 2025. For this dispatch, the Rescue Squad was summoned to the Commu-
Gas leak, house fire in southwest Omaha caused by tree struck down by lightning
A tree being knocked down after being struck by lightning was determined to be the cause of a house fire in southwest Omaha early Tuesday morning. A report from the Omaha Fire Department says crews responded to the scene near 157th and T streets just after midnight Tuesday morning. At the scene, crews shut down the gas line and found the fire in the home in the basement’s ceiling by the gas line. The residents were outside when crews got there. Crews also investigated a gas leak in a neighboring house, and shut down the other gas line. It was determined that lightning struck a tree in the front yard of one the homes, knocking the tree down and disrupting the gas lines. MUD was on location to mitigate the gas leak when fire crews went back into service. Damages to the home are estimated to be $35,000.
(WOWT-TV NBC 6, Omaha, July 9, 2025)
What’s an inch tall and can move a fire truck?
nity Pride Care Center.
One adult female resident was evaluated and treated at the scene before being transported to Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk.
The third dispatch was received at approximately 8:00 a.m., Saturday, June 28, 2025.
For this dispatch, the Volunteer Fire Department was summoned to a report of a house on fire north of Battle Creek on Highway 121. Battle Creek Volunteer Fire was assisted through mutual aid by Norfolk Fire and Meadow Grove Volunteer Fire.
Assistance was also provided
by the Elkhorn Rural Public Power District, the Madison County Sheriff’s Department and the Nebraska State Patrol. An exact cause of the fire is unknown, and the residence is considered a total loss. One adult female was taken from the scene to Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk. An undetermined number of pet cats are believed to have expired as a result of the fire.
The Battle Creek Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad would like to remind everyone that properly placed, working smoke detectors are the most important and effective ear-
ly warning devices one can have to protect themselves and their family from fire in the home. Furthermore, we want to remind everyone to be extra careful if road conditions deteriorate, always wear your seat belt, choose a designated driver, and please don’t drink and drive. We thank the citizens of Battle Creek and the surrounding area for your support, both financially and emotionally. We truly are here to serve you.
(Battle Creek Enterprise, Battle Creek, July 2, 2025)
monitored, and prepared in every situation.
Grand Island Casino Resort Donates to Nebraska State Fire School
The Nebraska State Fire School recently received a generous donation of $3,319.72 from the Grand Island Casino Resort. Pictured above, Fire School Committee Member Rod Buethe accepted the check on behalf of the organization. The funds were raised this past May through a special promotion at the casino where players were encouraged to give back—guests who donated $10 received $10 in free slot play. Thanks to the generosity of the players and the support of Grand Island Casino Resort, these contributions will help support critical training and educational opportunities for Nebraska’s firefighters. The Nebraska State Fire School extends its sincere appreciation to the casino and its patrons for their continued support of Nebraska’s fire service.
Seven displaced, one firefighter injured after South Sioux City house fire
A South Sioux City firefighter was seriously injured when a ceiling partially collapsed during a fire on Wednesday. According to a release, the South Sioux City Fire Department was sent to the 500 block of East 25th Street at 5:07 p.m. Responders arrived on the scene within four minutes of receiving the call and found a single-story home with flames coming from the back and the roof.
Sioux City Fire Rescue and the Dakota City Fire Department were called in for further assistance while the SSCFD began battling the fire. The release states that a primary search confirmed that all occupants were safely out of the home, and firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 20 minutes.
During the overhaul phase, a SSCFD firefighter sustained a serious neck injury when a section of the ceiling collapsed and was taken to a local hospital, according to the release. Due to the damage, the home was redtagged and deemed uninhabitable until repairs can be completed.
The release noted that seven residents were displaced and are currently staying with family members. The fire has been ruled accidental. Investigations determined that the fire originated on the back deck for an occupant had been cooking before briefly leaving the property. When they returned, the home was already on fire.
(KTIV-TV NBC 4, Sioux City, July 10, 2025)
Wind fueled field
fire near Pilger causes brief power outages
A grass fire near Pilger, NE, caused a brief power outage and scorched around 13 acres last Friday afternoon. The Pilger Volunteer Fire Department responded to the blaze near 573rd Ave. around 3 p.m.
Authorities believe strong winds caused a tree to fall onto power lines, leading to the fire. The downed lines sparked flames and shorted out, igniting the dry grass.
Stanton County Public Power crews acted quickly to restore power to half a dozen homes affected by the outage. Firefighters from Pilger, Wisner Fire and Rescue, Stanton County Emergency Management, and two local residents with tractor discs worked together to extinguish the fire.
(Wisner News Chronicle, Wisner, June 26, 2025)
Lincoln Fire and Rescue urges grill safety after propane fire causes $90K in damage
July is the peak month for grill fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. With the month quickly approaching, Lincoln Fire and Rescue is reminding people to stay safe when using a grill. LFR said more than a quarter of grill-related structure fires start on an exterior balcony or open porch. “We wanna make sure that you keep those gas grills and propane grills away from the house or structure,” LFR spokeswoman MJ Lierman said.
The department has responded to several grill fires in Lincoln, including one over the weekend that started as a propane fire. Lierman said it was caused by a leak in the connection between the house and the grill. The flames spread to the home’s living room, second floor, and attic, causing $70,000 in structural damage and $20,000 in damage to contents inside.
(KOLN-TV CBS 10/KGIN-TV CBS 11, Lincoln-Grand Island, July 1, 2025.)
Alliance trains with Air Link
On Wednesday evening , June 18, Alliance Fire Department spent some time training with Air
appreciate the training and our partnership with you. Thanks for flying up to Alliance and
From the Alliance Fire Department Facebook page.
QUALITY
Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.
