VIRGINIA LIFELINE 1st Quarter 2021

Virginia

LIFELINE 1st Quarter 2021

The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads

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Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE Deadline for future issues are as follows: December 15 for the 1st Quarter Issue March 15 for the 2nd Quarter Issue June 15 for the 3rd Quarter Issue August 15 for the Convention Issue September 15 for the 4th Quarter Issue Articles may be submitted by any member of the VAVRS, AVAVRS and VAJVRS. Feature articles are encouraged.

Photos and/or graphics are acceptable and can be returned if requested.

Contact the VAVRS Editor (editor@vavrs.com) if you need assistance submitting to the publication.

Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00

Parliamentary Corner Submitted by G. Kenneth Morgan, VAVRS Parliamentarian Welcome to 2021, a new year, new officers, new ideas, AND a new parliamentarian for the VAVRS. After many years J C Phillips is no longer the association parliamentarian and I’ve agreed to serve for the coming year.

The entire association owes a debt of gratitude to J C for his work and study of Robert’s Rules. He was honored at the 2020 Convention in Lynchburg as Parliamentarian Emeritus for the association. If you want to express thanks to J C, you can email him at rs1inva@gmail.com.

Why am I now serving as parliamentarian? I guess the main reason is that no one else wanted the job. But also, I have done lots of study and completed testing to be a Registered Parliamentarian with the National Association of Parliamentarians. If you are a serious student of Robert’s Rules, I would encourage you to take the basic test and become a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians.

I want to be a resource to your agency and provide opinions as needed. I see the role of parliamentarian as being one of the benefits provided to your agency as a member of VAVRS. One of the important concepts of parliamentary procedure is that the parliamentarian provides opinions and the president or chair of the meeting rules on parliamentary issues. You can take advantage of this resource BEFORE you have a problem.

I taught a class at Rescue College on “Bylaws, Policies, and Robert’s Rules.” The focus of the class is on knowing how your agency bylaws take precedent and how important it is as an agency leader to know basic parliamentary procedure and your bylaws. Plans are to provide this class at Rescue College again in 2021.

If your agency would like a local class on basic meeting rules and the impact of parliamentary procedure, talk with other local agencies. If you have a minimum of 10 students, I’ll do a one day local class at your agency.

And if you want to get an opinion on your bylaws or parliamentary procedure, you can contact me at ken@vavrs.com. And Happy New Year!!

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The VAVRS Memorial Service Program and names of the VAVRS and AVAVRS memorialized during the service held on October 31, 2020 have been reprinted on the following pages.

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VAVRS Members Irvin “Doug” Adams Jr. / Vinton First Aid Crew John “Johnny” Adams Jr. / Gretna Rescue Squad Virgil “Lee” Abel Jr. / White Oak Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc. Robert “Bobby” Altice / Vinton First Aid Crew James Benton Anderson II / Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad Robert “Bob” Anderson / Danville Life Saving Crew John Clark Arrington / Franklin County Rescue Squad James R. Bailey / Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad Clyde Wayne Bowman / Nottoway County Emergency Squad, Inc. Harry Dowl Boteler / Millwood Station Volunteer Fire & Rescue Randolph “Randy” Breton / Hamilton Volunteer Rescue Squad Thomas Hart Brown / Holly Grove Fire & Rescue Squad Calvin Ollie Brumfield / Gretna Fire & Rescue Squad Cody David Brumfield / Gretna Fire & Rescue Squad Lemuel Sherwood Byers Sr. / Buena Vista Rescue Squad Christopher Brad Campbell / LifeCare Medical Transports Connie Campbell / Luray Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. John Chomeau / Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad James “Jimmy” Clore / Hartwood Volunteer Firemen’s Association Inc. Michael C. Counts / Salem Rescue Squad John Thornton “JT” Crews / Renan Volunteer Fire Department Betty Dean Jr. / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad Katherine Dickerson / Chase City Rescue Squad John “Jack” Dye / Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Robert “Bob” Douglas / Bristol Life Saving Crew Bruce Edwards / Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad CJ Entsminger / Westrock Rescue Squad Fred H. Fix Jr. / Buena Vista Rescue Squad Clifton “Reed” Forbes Jr. / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad Joseph “Joe” Garrett / Washington County Life Saving Crew & Bristol Life Saving Crew James Gibson / Scott County Lifesaving & First Aid Crew, Inc. Wyatt Gosnell / Lake of the Woods Volunteer Fire & Rescue Inc. Robert “Bob” Holcombe / Aquia Harbour Rescue Squad Randy L. Johnson / Bensley-Bermuda Volunteer Rescue Squad Leo Charles Kelly / Sterling Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Carolyn King / Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Robert Lane / Brunswick Volunteer Rescue Squad John Cramer Lindsey / Cool Branch Rescue Squad Official

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VAVRS Members Earl M. Little / Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad Roy Thomas Lovejoy / Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad Virginia W. “Teeny” McConkie / Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Mattie Landrum Parker / Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad Kathryn Harper Polen / Loudoun County Volunteer Rescue Squad Charles “Chuck” Poppe / Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad Donna Jean Quinn / Ettrick Matoaca Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc. Charlotte Reese / Chase City Rescue Squad Evan Matthew Sabine / Madison County Rescue Squad Susan Slough / Buena Vista Rescue Squad Charles A. Small / Bensley-Bermuda Volunteer Rescue Squad Marshall T. Smith / Buena Vista Rescue Squad Janice Thomas / Holly Grove Volunteer Rescue Squad Kenneth “Ken” Tutt / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad Frederic “Fred” Vanous / Stafford County Fire & Rescue Helen Louise Wade / Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad Betty Jo Wheeler / Buena Vista Rescue Squad Ronald “Ronnie” Wilson / Henrico Volunteer Rescue Squad Edward “Charlie” Woodzell / Hot Springs Rescue Squad Stella Wright / Central Lifesaving and Rescue Squad AVAVRS Members Brenda Gail Adams / Vinton First Aid Crew Becky Arehart / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad Pat Balsley / Forest View Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. Barbara Kelley Chase / Cave Spring Rescue Squad, Inc. Jean Snead Chocklett / Vinton First Aid Crew Jessie Sadler Daniel / Brunswick Volunteer Rescue Squad Betty Dean Sr. / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad Sally Knigge / Stuarts Draft Rescue Squad George Barry Melson / Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Norma Jean Campbell Morris / Franklin County Rescue Squad Alta Ann Mullins / Bassett Rescue Squad, Inc. Margaret Linda Powell / Bensley-Bermuda Volunteer Rescue Squad Alma Cree Snowa / Richmond Volunteer Rescue Squad Linda Arlean Minter Stevens / Waynesboro First Aid Cre

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Ettrick-Matoaca Volunteers Go Pink For Breast Cancer Awareness.

Submitted by Brandon Baugus

Since 1985 October has been recognized as breast cancer awareness month. The goal of this is to educate women about breast cancer, celebrate cancer survivors, those under treatment, and raise funds for breast cancer research. The members of Ettrick-Matoaca Volunteer Rescue Squad are proud to honor those who have been affected by breast cancer.

"Pictured on the left-Brandon Clause and Pictured below are Brandon Baugus and Rachel Eaker"

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November District 10 Meeting

Fredericksburg Rescue Squad Kevin Dillard, VAVRS Past President The VAVRS District 10 meeting was held on November 8th at the Fredericksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad. We had a great in person attendance, with members wearing masks and practicing social distancing as we held our meeting.

Our training was well attended. We had a two hour session on LVAD training and received updates on certifications and expirations on the provider certs.

During the meeting we received updates on the great work that is going on at the VAVRS office. Special thanks was given to Mac McGuire for his work as the volunteer Executive Director, Ken Morgan as the volunteer Assistant Executive Director and to the staff of Mary Shivley who serves as the office manager and Jamie Jarrad who works in training. Cynthia Babb was recognized during the meeting for her five years of service to the VAVRS. The VAVRS celebrated its 85th anniversary in 2020. Roanoke Lifesaving crew was established in 1928 as the first volunteer Rescue Squad in the United States and then in 1935 the VAVRS was formed.

Diana Wills, VAVRS District 10 Vice President presenting Leddyanne Dell, VA OEMS Education Coordinator with a VAVRS Challenge Coin.

A discussion was held about mass vaccinations and how EMS agencies in our district will be assisting the local health department.

We had many other officer and committee reports to keep our members informed. A reminder was given to all about the importance of disseminating the information back to their agencies.

We look forward to our next meeting on February 7th at the Madison Volunteer Rescue Squad.

Fredericksburg Rescue Squad deserts for members attending the district meeting.

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From the

Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes In order to begin this article properly, I wish to thank everyone who attended the 2020 Convention in Lynchburg on Halloween. It was there I received the greatest honor of my time in VAVRS – Being bestowed LIFE MEMBERSHIP in VAVRS. What an honor and a privilege to have been presented this award it is very special. Carol asked me one day the following week if I was still on cloud 9, I told her maybe about an 8.5. Again I thank you for the dignity that goes with the badge and in whose footsteps that I am following in. I also want to thank Gary Dalton for his comments in presenting this award. Of course, thanks to my bride of 49 years, Carol, yes that is correct, and putting up with me leaving home to answer calls plus the travel necessary in being an officer of the VAVRS. Thank you both.

Now, to the article. The special session is over after somewhere around 80 days (they could have flown a balloon around the world in that time). Many of us in the public safety groups worked hard in getting bills stopped that had a detrimental effect on law enforcement, fire and EMS. Even while working the special session bills, work was still being done on bills for the 2021 session which begins on January 13th. Once again this will be an interesting session – the House of Delegates will be meeting virtually (at home or wherever) and the Senate will be in the Science Museum again. It will be hard to discuss bills with legislators under these circumstances and that goes for constituents also.

VAVRS is supporting one bill this session along with VAGEMSA, the VAA and the Regional Councils Directors Group. The bill’s intent is to add “salaried and volunteer EMS providers” to the hypertension / heart disease section of the presumption code. This is a section of the code that volunteer EMS providers were left out of when it was first put in code. This will be an uphill fight in that the insurance industry will be opposed to it along with local governments. This is a benefit for our members and also a recruitment and retention value for the agencies. The good news is that we have a patron in the Senate and one in the House. Hopefully other legislators will see fit not to add others to this legislation and thus destroy it.

Of course, there will be bills that were defeated during 2020 session that will probably return for another try and also bills that were defeated during the Special Session I that will be brought back.

Some we will definitely support and a few we will definitely oppose.

Hopefully by the time you read this article you will be aware of the bill numbers and our position. That is when you as members of VAVRS need to get to work by contacting your legislator asking him/her to support or oppose bills for VAVRS. There will be more information forthcoming in the by-weekly legislative report.

Finally, I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season and wear your mask. If you any questions Official

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Rescue Hall of Fame Kevin Dillard, Chair The Virginia Lifesaving and Rescue Hall of Fame inducted two people during the 2020 VAVRS Convention in Lynchburg, Virginia. Congratulations to the 2020 inductees-John Craig and Andy Neagle.

John Craig has over 40 years' experience in EMS in his home of Staunton VA as well as many areas throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. John has served in many capacities as an instructor and liaison for VAVRS showing both knowledge and promoting outstanding education for everyone he taught.

In 1980 John joined the Staunton-Augusta County First Aid and Rescue Squad, Inc. He served the squad as, First and Second Lieutenant, Captain, President, Vice President, Fund Drive Chairman, Ambulance Committee Chairman, Banquet Committee Chairman, Communications Officer, and member of the Rescue Truck committee.

John was awarded Life Membership to the Staunton-Augusta County First Aid & Rescue Squad, Inc. in 1990, and was inducted into VAVRS Life Membership in 2012.

John became a VAVRS Vehicle Extrication Instructor in 1986, and became an Instructor Trainer in 1994. He also has been a Vehicle Extrication Judge for many years during Conference, being the Co-Chair multiple times. John is also the Course Coordinator for School Bus and Advanced Vehicle Extrication, and multiple times has been awarded as VAVRS Instructor of the Year.

Further, John has served as the District 1 Rescue Officer, VAVRS Convention Planning Committee, Rescue College Chairman.

During his years with the Augusta County Sheriff's Department he was part of the SWAT tactical team. In 1990 the 911 center opened in Augusta County, where John became the first Director. He returned to the Sheriff's department as Jail Administrator and then retired in 2005. In 2011, John led the way to organize and create the Riverheads Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as the President for 8 years, and brought the department to VAVRS.

John is more than deserving to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Johns wife, Kim of 38 years, a son, Scott, who started in EMS and now has a career as a law enforcement officer, a daughter in law, Mallory and two wonderful grandchildren, Aidan and Morgan are very proud of John's accomplishments. The squad, family, friends and the community are thankful and proud for all that John has contributed to make a difference in people's lives It is with great pride that the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads inducts John H. Craig III, into the Virginia Life Saving and Rescue Hall of Fame!

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Charles "Andy" Neagle is a long-time resident of Hanover County, Virginia. He has been involved in EMS, the community, and state for over 37 years.

As a member of both West End Rescue Squad and East Hanover Rescue Squad he has been a leader, attendant in charge and mentor for new members.

Andy is employed by the Federal Bureau of Investigations as a contractor.

He received his VAVRS Life Membership in 2008. He has worked on many committees and has served the District in many positions, including District III VicePresident, Alternate District Vice-President, Treasurer, Rescue Officer, Deputy District Rescue Officer, NASCAR Race Committee, VAVRS Convention Committee, and Parade Chair.

Andy is also an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Instructor and District III EVOC Contest Coordinator.

Andy and his wife, Tina, have three children, a son, C.J. and two daughters, Courtney, Davi, and three grandchildren.

Andy has been a tremendous asset to VAVRS and his community. He is a leader and a person who continues to strive for excellence.

It is with great pride that the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads induct Charles "Andy" Neagle, into the Virginia Life Saving and Rescue Hall of Fame!

We are now accepting applications for consideration for the 2021 Hall of Fame ceremony. Applications are due to the VAVRS office or to me no later than March 1, 2021. Please take the time to go to the VAVRS website and learn more about the Hall of Fame recognition and consider nominating a deserving member.

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A 2020 Christmas Celebration Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk M.A. | Marketing & Communication Manager LifeCare Medical Transports

While Christmas 2020 may not look like any other we have experienced, LifeCare Medical Transports wanted to ensure that its employees experienced some well-deserved Christmas cheer this year. On Sunday December 6, 2020, LifeCare held a drive thru Christmas Celebration at its corporate offices in Stafford, VA. Employees were able to bring their family and friends and drive thru to see Santa and the Grinch.

LifeCare’s “Elves” worked hard over a three day period to bake 150 dozen cookies for the employees and their families. Thank you to all of Santa’s helpers for their time and dedication!

President Kevin Dillard said, “Our employees and their families have made so many sacrifices this year and we didn’t want them to have to sacrifice being able to take their children to see Santa. Our team created a COVID safe drive thru opportunity and it was a big hit. We know Christmas 2020 will not be the same, but we wanted to make sure we brought some Christmas cheer to our employees, especially after all they have done for their community this year”.

Santa Claus with LifeCare’s antique ambulance.

Santa Claus and the Grinch with Station 1 (Fredericksburg) management.

Captain Xavier Bates Official

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LifeCare Employees Receive Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Heroism Award at the 2020 First Responder Breakfast Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk M.A. | Marketing & Communication Manager LifeCare Medical Transports Lt. Thomas McGowan and Lt. Bobby Rivenbark of LifeCare’s Corporate Offices in Stafford, Virginia received this year’s Heroism award at the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s First Responder Breakfast.

Both Lt. McGowan and Lt. Rivenbark received the Heroism award for their service in New York City earlier this year as they provided essential medical transport to help decompress hospitals and the overwhelmed 911 system due to COVID-19.

In addition to these two award, LifeCare was awarded the Innovation in Business Award in recognition for their AIRVO 2 and new Emergency Stroke Transport protocols that were both implemented this year.

LifeCare would like to congratulate Lt. McGowan and Lt. Rivenbark and thank all of its employees as they have been on the frontlines during this COVID-19 pandemic.

Lt. Thomas McGowan and Lt. Bobby Rivenbark receiving the 2020 Heroism award from the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce

Lt. Richard Szymczyk, Workforce Health & Safety Manager and Lt. Bobby Rivenbark demonstrating how to use the AIRVO 2 P ag e

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CBVRS Service Projects Give Back Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad’s Senior & Junior squads and Support Team coordinated two service projects in the fourth quarter of 2020.

In November, CBVRS members packed 58 shoeboxes full of toys, craft and coloring materials and personal care items that Samaritan’s Purse will distribute to children in need around the world. Pictured from left are: Porter Preston, Krystal Eldred, Mackenzie Melson, Tammy Preston, Donna Shelar, Holden Oliff, Amber Straughan, Ray Eldred, Kirsten Straughan, Nick Szobota, Pat FitzGerald, Parker Melson, Zedda Viets, Colby Melson and Samantha Straughan. Elta Melson participated and took the photo.

Another fun project was Loads of Love. CBVRS requested donations of laundry supplies, such as laundry baskets, detergents and dryer sheets, to surprise people coming to the Hall’s laundromat in early December.

The photos show the variety of supplies that the squad collected, along with several of the members who helped distribute the Loads of Love supplies at the laundromat. Pictured from left are Amber Straughan, Kirsten Straughan and Pat FitzGerald.

“We chose these projects because we wanted to give back to the local community and to areas of the world that are struggling," said Samantha Straughan, who works with the Colonial Beach Juniors and is active on the CBVRS Support Team. “Squad members of all ages enjoyed working together to help others during the holiday season."

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Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Submitted by Bobby Hill, Social Media-Marketing Team Like many of our brothers & sister serving in volunteer and career Fire-EMS departments across this great Commonwealth of Virginia, 2020 has been a challenging time. Like you, the men and women volunteering with the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad have been called upon to meet the challenges that were thrust upon us by the COVID19 pandemic and the final chapter is yet to be written.

In October, 2020, the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad held the squads meeting to elect Squad Officers for the year 2021.The meeting was held in the Virginia Beach Convention Center. With the larger rooms we were able to hold this important meeting and maintain the six foot distance protocols.

Afterwards, members stepped outside in front of the convention center for a group photo where all in attendance were wearing appropriate PPE mask.

Congratulations to Chief Neumayer [second term as chief] Operations Captain – Norwood Burdett Administrative Captain – Paul Feakins Secretary – Susan Bauman

Treasurer – Bob Samuel Member-At-Large Operational Life – Diana Elliott Member-At-Large Operational Non-life – Allison Simon Member-At-Large Operational or Support – Dave Matthews No new ambulances were ordered in 2020, however, we did order and replaced one of our two frontline medic carts.

Cart 14 is a 2020, “ASAP Lifeguard” module on a Intimidator 4x4 UTV, 997CC gasoline engine with 27” tires and equipped with a standard Stryker stretcher mount. Purchase price, $48,784.00. Cart 14 along with Cart 8 are housed at our oceanfront rescue squad station and both are used during special events involving large crowds as well as patient retrieval from the beach area to a waiting ambulance. Due to COVID19, 2020 did not see the carts used a lot.

We also replaced our “admin wagon” with a 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe and our “utility 4 wheel drive vehicle” with a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 4 wheel drive vehicle.

That about does it here at the Virginia Beach oceanfront for this quarter.

Stay safe.

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WFAC Auxiliary Report Submitted by Jill Stachowski, Auxiliary Vice President and Cece McCormick, Auxiliary Historian Hello to everyone from the Auxiliary of the Waynesboro First Aid Crew. As we are in different times and staying in and staying safe, we hope you all are doing the same.

We are trying to stay away from the building as much as possible, letting our crew do their jobs as they keep the building clean and sanitized. Our buildings and grounds person, Danny McCormick, changes some light bulbs.

Since we are not traveling due to COVID-19 for district meetings nor having a convention this year, we have tried to stay safe and still help our community and crew members with goodie bags for Halloween and helping our citizens at Springdale with Christmas Cards.

There was a very nice dedication from the City of Waynesboro at the building for our newest ambulance arrival. Planter boxes were donated with flowers to put around one of the entrances of the building. A big crew showed up to help plant them. Lol. Steve Ward spoke and some of the auxiliary members were there to help plant the flowers with the other volunteers. Our historian, Cece McCormick took a ride up to Clifton Forge to see an Christie Jeffries and to drop off our state scrapbook since we are able to go down to the building as much as we like. Our crews always know we are only a phone call away if anyone needs us.

Please don’t hesitate to let us now. We are all in this together. As you all may of heard, we have lost one of our own active lifetime members, Linda Stevens. Linda had served for more than 30 years as an active member of the Auxiliary. She will be deeply missed.

As we all go through these trying times, staying safe and well and still trying to take care of our squads. Please know we keep you all in our prayers and until we see each other again, God Bless, Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year,

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EVOC Program Update and New Laws.

Submitted by Bubby Bish and Gary Dalton, VAVRS EVOC Coordinators Holding a cellphone while driving: It’s illegal to hold a cellphone while driving in Virginia starting January 1, 2021. The previous law only prohibited holding a phone while driving in a work zone or reading or typing an email or text while driving The first offense will get you a $125 fine. Additional offences will cost you $250. You’ll also pay the higher fine if you’re caught breaking the law in a highway work zone.

One thing to note: If you use earphones to talk hands-free on your cellphone, Virginia law only allows drivers to have an earbud in one ear. (see 46.2-1078 printed on the next page) Exceptions to the new law include using your phone to report an emergency, and using your phone while legally parked or stopped. There are also exemptions for emergency crews who are on the job. The 2021 EVOC Program update will cover these changes and other changes to Virginia law that have occurred during the past 5 years. We have printed the new law in its entirety:

§ 46.2-818.2. (Effective January 1, 2021) Use of handheld personal communications devices in certain motor vehicles; exceptions; penalty.

A. It is unlawful for any person, while driving a moving motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth, to hold a handheld personal communications device.

B. The provisions of this section shall not apply to: 1. The operator of any emergency vehicle while he is engaged in the performance of his official duties; 2. An operator who is lawfully parked or stopped; 3. Any person using a handheld personal communications device to report an emergency; 4. The use of an amateur or a citizens band radio; or 5. The operator of any Department of Transportation vehicle or vehicle operated pursuant to the Department of Transportation safety service patrol program or pursuant to a contract with the Department of Transportation for, or that includes, traffic incident management services as defined in subsection B of § 46.2920.1 during the performance of traffic incident management services.

C. A violation of this section is a traffic infraction punishable, for a first offense, by a fine of $125 and, for a second or subsequent offense, by a fine of $250. If a violation of this section occurs in a highway work zone, it shall be punishable by a mandatory fine of $250.

D. For the purposes of this section:

"Emergency vehicle" means: 1. Any law-enforcement vehicle operated by or under the direction of a federal, state, or local lawenforcement officer while engaged in the performance of official duties; 2. Any regional detention center vehicle operated by or under the direction of a correctional officer responding to an emergency call or operating in an emergency situation; 3. Any vehicle used to fight fire, including publicly owned state forest warden vehicles, when traveling in response to a fire alarm or emergency call; 4. Any emergency medical services vehicle designed or used for the principal purpose of supplying resuscitation or emergency relief where human life is endangered; Official

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5. Any Department of Emergency Management vehicle or Office of Emergency Medical Services vehicle, when responding to an emergency call or operating in an emergency situation;

6. Any Department of Corrections vehicle designated by the Director of the Department of Corrections, when (i) responding to an emergency call at a correctional facility, (ii) participating in a drug-related investigation, (iii) pursuing escapees from a correctional facility, or (iv) responding to a request for assistance from a law-enforcement officer; and 7. Any vehicle authorized to be equipped with alternating, blinking, or flashing red or red and white secondary warning lights pursuant to ยง 46.21029.2.

"Highway work zone" means a construction or maintenance area that is located on or beside a highway and is marked by appropriate warning signs with attached flashing lights or other traffic control devices indicating that work is in progress.

E. Distracted driving shall be included as a part of the driver's license knowledge examination.

2020, cc. 250, 543.

ยง 46.2-1078. Unlawful to operate motor vehicle, bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, or moped while using earphones.

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle, bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, or moped on the highways in the Commonwealth while using earphones on or in both ears.

For the purpose of this section, "earphones" shall mean any device worn on or in both ears that converts electrical energy to sound waves or which impairs or hinders the person's ability to hear, but shall not include (i) any prosthetic device that aids the hard of hearing, (ii) earphones installed in helmets worn by motorcycle operators and riders and used as part of a communications system, or (iii) nonprosthetic, closed-ear, open-back, electronic noise-cancellation devices designed and used to enhance the hearing ability of persons who operate vehicles in high-noise environments, provided any such device is being worn by the operator of a vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 pounds or more. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the driver of any emergency vehicle as defined in ยง 46.2-920.

Code 1950, ยง 46-219.1; 1950, p. 882; 1958, c. 541, ยง 46.1-202.1; 1989, c. 727; 1993, c. 126; 1997, c. 36; 2001, c. 834; 2002, c. 254.

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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, I heard that you participated in the trail for the new COVID 19 vaccine. How did that go?

Be Safe in Sterling Dear Byron, Not too good. I was one of the participants that did not receive the vaccine. Now I am addicted to placebos!

Dear Rescue Ranger, The other day I was reflecting on my life and came to the realization that I had a wonderful childhood.

You never talk much about your life as a young child. Did you have what we would call a normal childhood?

Great Upbringing in Rural Virginia Dear Darrell, I guess it was OK. My parents moved around a lot but I always found them.

Dear Rescue Ranger, I heard that you were promoting a new Glasgow Coma Scale scoring tool. Would you share your ideas with us?

Longtime Paramedic in Manchester Dear Kathy, Here it is—let me know what you think!

Dear Rescue Ranger, Heard you were dealing with some mild medical issues. Hope everything is OK. Concerned in Concord Dear Bruce, Yeah, visited my doctor today. He told me my sugar was too high. So I came home and moved it to a lower shelf. That should take care of that!

Dear Rescue Ranger, I heard that you were a little over zealous when you celebrated your recent 300 bowling game!

Are You Happy Now? Dear Wesley, You know how they throw the ball into the crowd after a they win a big game of football or baseball?

Well, that’s not allowed in bowling—I know that now!

Dear Rescue Ranger, I am taking a pre-requisite A&P course. Any study suggestions?

Learning a lot Dear Cindy, Just remember, the average human body contains enough bones to make an entire skeleton and you will be just fine.

Dear Rescue Ranger, I went hunting with a group of squad members. We had a great time, camped out, sat around telling some of your old stories and even bagged a few squirrels and two deer. Thanks for the suggestion.

Refreshed in Riner Dear Toby, Funny you should mention that. I shot my first turkey last week...scared the crap out of everyone in the frozen food section-it was awesome.

Unrelated, I told my wife she should embrace her mistakes—she hugged me?

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VAVRS Nominating Committee Kevin Dillard, Chair [

Our new officers have taken office as of January 1, 2021. Congratulations to each of them and a special thank you for your willingness to serve the association.

It is not too early to begin thinking about candidates for 2022! If you have an interest in seeking office for 2022, please reach out to me and let me know of your interest. We like to attempt to get those interested in running for a particular office to start shadowing the current officer in that position. It can be more than one person shadowing a particular officer, as those interested still have to be elected at the annual convention.

We are always working to groom our leaders of tomorrow. If you or someone you know is interested in a future position with the VAVRS, please reach out to me. I can be reached at kdillard@lifecare94.com

Rescue Squad Assistance Fund Kevin Dillard, Chair

The Rescue Squad Assistance Fund (RSAF) Committee met on December 3rd to make recommendations on the Fall cycle award's program.

We received over $17 million in total project requests from 119 applicants. We had approximately $4.7 million in funds available to award. These recommendations now go to the Health Commissioner and final award announcements are made after January 1st. You can go to the website of the Office of EMS to see the awards at http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/administration-finance/rsaf-grantsprogram/ A priority for the past couple of cycles has been to fund Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) for any county or city that does not currently have this system in place. If you know of an area that does not have EMD, please encourage them to apply for a grant in the upcoming cycle. The Spring grant program will have a deadline of March 15, 2021.

Please reach out to your local Regional EMS Council or the Office of EMS for assistance in preparing your grant or to learn more about the grant program and the opportunities for funding.

This is a multi-million dollar matching grant program for Virginia governmental, volunteer and non-profit EMS agencies and organizations to provide financial assistance based on financial need. The monies are primarily for EMS equipment and vehicles along with EMS programs and projects.

I am happy to assist if any of you have any further questions on this. You can reach me at kdillard@lifecare94.com

Virginia EMS Advisory Board Kevin Dillard, Chair

The Governor's Advisory Board Executive Committee and new board members met in December.

Interim officer positions were elected until such time the entire board can meet to ratify this.

For the entire list turn to the back cover of this publication.

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Audrey Allison, Chloe Ireland, Cole Ireland, Jani Riddick, Jovi Riddick, Jace Riddick, Amber Cornett.

Holly Grove VRS Juniors Submitted by Jennifer Ford On October 28th, 2020, Holly Grove Volunteer Rescue Squad Juniors made tacos, refried beans and rice for the rescue, fire, law enforcement, and dispatch in the county of Louisa. They also put together 60 thank you gifts for LEOs personally purchasing items such as gum, hand sanitizer, pens, notebooks, candy, Gatorade, and baked cookies for them. I am so proud of them and their heart to serve.

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Community Strong Submitted by Morgan Szymczyk M.A. | Marketing & Communication Manager

LifeCare Medical Transports

Communities across the nation have learned the importance of community unity during this pandemic. Throughout these communities organizations small and large have come together to support each other and create hope during this time of uncertainty. This could not be truer for LifeCare Medical Transports and Unmasked.

Unmasked Uplifts Inc. is a 100% volunteer organization whose mission is to provide services for those in need in the Fredericksburg area. They have helped those in the community by providing and hosting vision screenings, feeding programs, backpacks and school supplies, gifts for the Holidays and much more. During this pandemic, Unmasked has provided numerous meals to those serving on the frontlines and have been a true light of hope for employees at LifeCare Medical Transports.

Founder, Crystal Vessels has not only cooked meals herself for LifeCare crews, but has come out to LifeCare’s Corporate Station in Stafford, VA to show her appreciation for all the crews have done.

Most recently, Unmasked has begun collecting gifts for children whose family may need a little help during the Holidays. LifeCare Medical Transports has offered space at its Corporate Office to help store these gifts.

“We are extremely elated to be able to help Crystal and her team with storing gifts for families in need this season. Unmasked Uplifts has truly been remarkable throughout this pandemic and we are very fortunate to have a community partners like them. We look forward to working closely with them more in the future”, Kevin Dillard, President & CEO of LifeCare said.

To find out more about Unmasked and how you can partner and help go to https:// unmaskeduplifts.org/.

Christmas gifts from Unmasked Uplifts being stored at LifeCare Medical Transports’ Corporate Offices in Stafford, VA. Official

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Aldie Volunteer Fire Department “With many Volunteer Fire and EMS agencies unable to hold fundraisers this year due to Covid 19, the Aldie Volunteer Fire Department is seeking help by donating supplies from our Duck Race fundraiser to a Volunteer Fire and/or EMS agency of our choosing in Virginia. Our department no longer hosts the duck race, which was a highlight of an annual village fair and a great deal of fun for spectators. We would routinely profit several thousand dollars on this annual race. We feel that it would be best to donate the supplies to another Volunteer Fire and/or EMS agency that is in need. Photos of previous duck races may be found on our web site, http:// aldiefire.org/images.html?cat=8296#ptop We are including in this donation the following, valued at several thousand dollars when new:

· Approximately 8000 weighted 2 ¾”plastic ducks, various colors, all uniquely numbered. ·

One Adult-Sized Duck Costume

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2-3 Fishing Nets (to retrieve ducks after the race)

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Other Miscellaneous equipment and supplies

The Aldie Volunteer Fire Department is willing to assist with delivery and will discuss logistics about our experiences to help the selected agency have a fun and successful fundraiser.

Inquiries should be directed to Mike Carter, Aldie Volunteer Fire Department, via mike.carter@loudoun.gov “ I have included some photos of the ducks and other equipment that can be included in the ad.

Thank you very much for your assistance. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Sincerely, Mike Carter

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White Oak VRS Submitted by Martha A Newton On Saturday, June 2020, White Oak Volunteer Rescue Squad members, in partnership with Stafford County Fire & Rescue, Stafford County Sheriff’s Department, White Oak Volunteer Fire Department, Falmouth Volunteer Fire Department, participated in a parade honoring the birthday of a local young resident who is battling cancer.

Squad members who participated in the event were: Rescue Chief Jeff McClure, 1st LieutenantOperations Virginia Cummings, Secretary/EMT Paula McClure and Treasurer/EMT Nina Brown.

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PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 ISSN 0279-6023

NON-PROFIT ORGAN..

U.S.POSTAGE PAID WOODSTOCK, VA PERMIT NO. 82

Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc.

Phone: 804-749-8191 Phone: 800-833-0602 Fax: 804-749-8910 E-mail: vavrs@vavrs.com

"Greater Love Hath No Man Than This, That A Man Lay Down His Life For His Friends."

John 15:13

Virginia Governor’s EMS Advisory Board Interim Officers: Chair – Kevin Dillard Vice Chair – Valerie Quick Administrative Coordinator – Jon Henschel Rules and Regulations Committee – Jon Henschel Legislative & Planning Committee – Gary Samuels Infrastructure Coordinator – Eddie Ferguson Transportation Committee – Eddie Ferguson

Communications Committee – John Korman Emergency Management Committee – Thom Schwalenberg Professional Development Coordinator – R. Jason Ferguson Training & Certification Committee – R. Jason Ferguson Workforce Development Committee – Valerie Quick

Provider Health & Safety Committee – Lori Knowles Patient Care Coordinator – Allen Yee Medical Direction Committee – Allen Yee Medevac Committee – Victoria Smith EMS for Children Committee – Patrick McLaughlin

Trauma System Coordinator – Michel Aboutanous Trauma Administrative and Governance – Michel Aboutanous System Improvement – Shawn Safford Injury and Violence Prevention – Sarah Beth Dinwiddie Prehospital Care – Mike Watkins Acute Care – Jeffery Young Post-Acute Care – Margaret Griffen Emergency Preparedness and Response – Morris Reece