U N I V E R S I T Y O F M A RY L A N D | M A RY L A N D F I R E A N D R E S C U E I N S T I T U T E
MFRI BULLETIN OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2023
VOL.53
NO.4
HILL STAFFERS AND CIVILIANS FIGHT FIRES FOR A DAY
With turnout gear secure and carefully inspected by instructors, more than 60 people took part in Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) Day at MFRI headquarters in early October. Established to introduce congressional staffers and affiliated civilians to the rigors of firefighting, participants conquered flames with fire extinguishers and as a team using hose line advancement. They also relied on breathing apparatus, entering a fire in the burn building. Other rotations included soaring up in an aerial tower bucket, crawling through the pitch-dark maze and using the jaws of life. Participants included 25 House of Representatives and Senate staffers and employees from the Federal Aviation Administration (FA A), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), House Science Committee, National Volunteer Fire Council and University of Maryland. “There’s no better way to understand the demands of firefighting than to have staffers walk in their boots,”
said Michael Cox, Executive Director of MFRI. “By partnering with CFSI, we aim to educate elected officials so that when legislation arises, they fully understand the challenges and associated costs of being a first responder.” Content Specialist Amanda Srsic from FSRI explained how the experience gave her a new appreciation for the work of the fire service. “So many of the activities put us in circumstances that went against human instinct. When you’re standing in a 4000o F room or crawling through a dark enclosed space, your whole body is telling you to get out. And yet, no matter how hot or disoriented you feel, you have to fight that instinct and keep going. It’s amazing that firefighters have trained to fight this instinct, especially under stressful conditions and when the stakes are so high. This experience has only deepened my respect for the fire service.” More than 20 MFRI staffers assisted on-site with Tim Delahanty taking the logistical lead to ensure the annual event, held for more than 30 years, went smoothly.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute of the University of Maryland is the state’s comprehensive training and education system for all-hazard responses. The Institute plans, researches, develops and delivers quality programs to prepare agencies and individuals to protect life, the environment and property. Bulletin Staff Editor: Diane May Managing Editor: Jennifer Ginn Graphics: Ana Maizel Assistant Editor: Jenna Robles Contact MFRI tel: 301-226-9921 www.mfri.org
fax: 301-314-0752 bulletin@mfri.org
The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute Bulletin (MFRI) University of Maryland (ISSN 1074-2298) is published quarterly by the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute of the University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742. Periodical postage paid at College Park, MD 20740. Postmaster: Send address changes to Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, Bulletin, 4500 Campus Drive, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, 20742. The MFRI Bulletin is distributed as a public service of the University of Maryland. The Bulletin is dedicated to the publication of information that will help educate its readers on the subjects of fire protection, emergency medical services, rescue, leadership and training. This publication may contain some articles and illustrations provided by readers. MFRI does not necessarily agree with information nor endorse any products depicted in the Bulletin. Address all communications to Editor at MFRI. For change of address, send mailing label and new address. The MFRI Bulletin is produced entirely in house. We extend our sincere gratitude to our contributors who make this publication possible.
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“Back to the Future” is a phrase and a concept that refers to the act of returning to or revisiting events or circumstances from the past in order to modify current or future events. This metaphor certainly has its applications in the fire service and emergency services training environment. Today’s world operates at a fast rate of speed. This in turn requires today’s leaders to make the right decisions in a much shorter time frame. It is important to realize that history should always be studied to ensure effective organizational change, increase organizational efficiency, fiscal responsibility, innovation and new processes. Most importantly, by studying the past, we can strive to ensure mistakes or ineffective practices are never repeated. Organizational leaders should always be open-minded, knowing that what we have learned or practiced in the past may no longer be the best solution. Leaders should embrace innovation, never be afraid of change, and strive for a high level of efficiency, effectiveness, and safety; whether in the classroom, on the training ground or on the battlefield. Today’s generation and those that follow will certainly continue to do things differently than what has been done in the past. Innovation and new technologies essentially guarantee this will occur. So, when you hear someone say, “Well, back in the day,” please be aware that these individuals have already researched and studied what may quite possibly have been done in the past, and then they applied new technologies, solutions or processes resulting in safer, more effective, and more efficient means to attain their end goal.
MICHAEL E. COX JR.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TECHNICIAN TRAINING Thankfully the hazmat suit has evolved since it was initially invented just over one hundred years ago when it was first developed by a Malayan physician to prevent the spread of pneumonic plague in China (Wikipedia). Present-day hazmat suits, which cost upwards of $20,000 each, protect hazmat technicians from emergency situations that arise during the worldwide transportation of more than three billion tons of hazmat a year. According to the Association of American Railroads, for every five tons of freight that is shipped by plane, boat, and truck, one ton is hazardous, conveying the necessity of skilled response technicians. During MFRI’s recent two-week hazmat technician training, students focused on analyzing incidents; planning and implementing responses; terminating incidents; and evaluating the outcomes. A basic knowledge of chemistry is also needed to ensure the chemical, physical, and toxic properties of materials can be identified. Under the expertise of MFRI instructors Phil Hebert and George Hollenbaugh, students built their knowledge base and then worked in teams learning to plug and patch a variety of leaks. They also practiced containing simulated hazmat in larger containers. “Fuel spills are probably the most common hazmat that technicians have to contain,” said Hebert. Other toxic materials include asbestos, lead, mercury, mold, radioactive waste, and nuclear waste. “Hazmat Technician is generally a specialized niche,” furthered Hebert. “Usually, only career firefighters take the class due to the commitment of the job. The technician class is a commitment to further education.” top photo: Hazmat suit. In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Hazmat_suit October - December 2023 3
FREE ONLINE TRAINING WITH SIM OF THE MONTH your maps, running assignments, water supply, and operational guidelines, develop strategies and tactics to mitigate the incident. SIMULATIONS ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS WHAT YOU PUT INTO THEM! Analyze building constructions, incident hazards, occupancy status, and environmental issues.
The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, through our Incident Command Simulation Center, has developed and implemented a monthly simulation program for all fire service personnel. Utilizing state-of-the-art simulation technology, this program allows an individual fire/EMS member, a career shift/volunteer duty crew, or an entire volunteer company/career department to access free simulations online. Simply type into your web browser: MFRI Simulation of the Month and the link will take you to the website. On the website, you will find instructions for the simulation usage, questions to answer, as well as supporting documents including: the Brief Initial Report, 360 report, update status forms, and additional information about the simulation. Simulations will change monthly. They will cover multiple disciplines including: Fire, EMS, HazMat, Rescue, and Special Operations. There are currently two simulations on the site for use: September features a dwelling fire and the October sim is a taxpayer fire. You are provided with basic information on the simulation. Using a location that can coincide with the simulation in your district, using
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It is important to remember what Francis Brannigan taught us about building construction, “The building is your enemy, know your enemy!” I always add one additional comment to Chief Brannigan’s statement, “The fire is now making your building a lethal enemy!” Currently, you can move around the exterior sides of the building using the arrows on the controller. As time progresses, my goal is to add additional locations within the simulation that will allow you to move to the simulation interior. An EMS simulation is being developed and will allow you to triage patients and establish a Medical Branch under the Incident Commander. If you have a building in your district or an incident that occurred, that you would like to see as the Simulation of the Month, please contact me at: GWarren@MFRI.org to find out what you need to provide. Never stop learning!
INSTRUCTOR HIGHLIGHT
DEREK BOWSER Derek Bowser, a retired police officer with 21 years of service in Baltimore County, has found a rewarding role as a MFRI instructor. Over the past decade, Derek has been sharing his wealth of knowledge with aspiring and experienced firefighters alike, making a lasting impact on their careers. Inspired by a previous instructor who encouraged him, Derek embraced the opportunity to become an educator. He teaches a range of courses including Firefighter I and II, Fire Police, Traffic Incident Management, Personal Protective Equipment/Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, and Marine Fire Fighting for Land-Based Firefighters. With each class, Derek ensures that his students not only gain the necessary skills and knowledge but also have an engaging learning experience. Some of Derek’s most memorable moments as an instructor are witnessing the growth of his students in the Firefighter I program. Seeing them complete the course and become leaders in their respective companies is a testament to his impact on their professional development. “I appreciate the opportunity to guide and shape the future of the fire service,” says Derek. “Hearing back from students after they go on their first real fire incident is rewarding.” His commitment to serving others extends far beyond the classroom. He remains a life member of both Lansdowne Volunteer Fire Department and Jacksonville Volunteer Fire Company in Baltimore County. Derek’s unwavering commitment to guiding and shaping the next generation of firefighters ensures a strong and capable crew of reliable first responders are at the ready to serve their communities.
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MARYLAND FIRE SERVICE PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS BOARD PRESENTS DONATION TO SUPPORT MARYLAND FIRE-RESCUE SERVICES MEMORIAL FOUNDATION At the annual gala for the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation, board members from the Maryland Fire Service Personnel Qualifications Board (MFSPQB) presented the memorial foundation with a donation check for $6,466. The MFSPQB committed to providing one dollar for every certification issued to support the Memorial Foundation. This year’s donation reflects the 6,466 certifications issued by the MFSPQB in 2022. On accepting the donation, Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Foundation President Dennis Beard recognized MFSPQB for contributing a total of more than $52,000 to the Memorial Foundation prior to the latest donation. Contributions are used to maintain the memorial and will be used going forward to help finance an anticipated expansion needed to enshrine additional names of fallen fire fighters and emergency services responders in Maryland. Established in 1997, the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation commemorates and honors Maryland’s fallen heroes, whose lives were lost while serving the state’s citizens. The fire-rescue memorial is located on Calvert Street at the entrance to Maryland’s capitol city of Annapolis. photo: Maryland Fire Service Personnel Qualifications Board presented a donation check to the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation at their annual gala. Pictured left to right: Dennis Beard, President of the Maryland FireRescue Services Memorial Foundation; Michael W. Robinson, Chair of the MFSPQB; Robert L. ‘Bob’ Rose, Executive Secretary of the MFSPQB; and Michelle Malin, Treasurer of the Maryland Fire-Rescue Services Memorial Foundation.
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MFRI CELEBRATES EMPLOYEES’ YEARS OF SERVICE During the fall all-employee meeting, MFRI staffers were recognized for their years of service by Executive Director Michael Cox. 1. Brian Fuselier 30 years Information Technology Coordinator 2. Tracy Bennett 25 years Program Administrative Specialist 3. Andy Poe 25 years Auto Service Technician
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4. Billy Robinson 20 years
Print Coordinator
5. Karen Snyder 15 years Program Administrative Specialist 6. Marika Jones 5 years Program Administrative Specialist
MFRI Training Coordinator Jimmy Artis recently took part in Fire Safety Research Institute’s (FSRI) Fire Dynamics Boot Camp at the Delaware County Emergency Services Training Center. During the four-day, train-the-trainer course, participants applied research findings about fire behavior and firefighting tactics to everyday firefighting. The application of the validated research is key to improving firefighter safety and efficiency. October - December 2023 7
Register Today for this Prestigious Event!
2024 NATIONAL FIRE SERVICE
STAFF & COMMAND COURSE MARCH 3-8 | ANNAPOLIS MD
Presented by The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute University of Maryland in cooperation with The International Association of Fire Chiefs, this course is designed specifically for chief officers, senior administrative personnel and senior company-level officers aspiring to be chief officers of career, volunteer & combination departments.
THE NATIONAL FIRE SERVICE STAFF AND COMMAND COURSE
features nationally distinguished fire-service speakers. Among this year’s illustrious speakers are:
Dr. Richard Gasaway
Dr. Gasaway is one of the nation’s leading authorities on human error, situational awareness and highrisk decision making processes. His work has been chronicled in more than 450 books, and he has delivered over 4,000 presentations to 62,000+ first responders, business leaders, industrial workers, medical providers, utility workers and military personnel worldwide. Dr. Gasaway served 30+ years in fire, EMS, rescue and emergency management and he held positions of firefighter, EMT-paramedic, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and fire chief in 6 emergency service organizations in West Virginia, Ohio and Minnesota.
Dr. David Griffin
Dr. David Griffin serves as the assistant chief of administration in Charleston, SC. His career trajectory from firefighter to battalion chief and shift commander includes his current position. He holds a master’s degree in executive fire service leadership, and a doctorate of education in organizational leadership and development. Griffin is an international speaker and instructor, a certified Chief Fire Officer and Chief Training Officer with The Center for Public Safety Excellence, an IFSAC/Pro Board-certified Fire Officer IV and a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program from the National Fire Academy.
This course provides participants, under the guidance of leading experts, with five days of in-depth discussions and debate of current and evolving issues in emergency services management facing fire/EMS departments.
For more information or to register on the website: www.mfri.org/sac | t: 301-226-9960 | e: sac@mfri.org
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