Lifeline nov dec 2016

Virginia

LIFELINE

November / December 2016 The Official Publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads

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Waynesboro First Aid Crew EMT State Champs Submitted by Robbi Blackburn, WFAC The Waynesboro First Aid Crew attended the 82nd conference of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads in Virginia Beach. In addition to attending seminars and gaining CE’s, members attended the opening ceremonies and participated in competition.

The WFAC heavy duty rescue truck team successfully defended its state champions title by winning first place in that category. Members of the team are Matt Wells, Richard Moyer, Sean Perry, and Danny McCormick. David Price was chosen as instructor of the year in vehicle extrication. The EMT team was named state champions for 2016.

Members of this team are Greg Payne, Nick Shifflett, Derek Price, and Sean Perry, and Robbi Blackburn, and coaches are Steve and Fran Davis.

In August the crew held its annual picnic at Shenandoah Acres. The picnic was well attended, the weather was superb, and the Acres proved to be a perfect spot for a get-together.

In October the WFAC will be celebrating its 65th anniversary.

We will have an open house on October 15 with various vendors participating and an exhibition by the vehicle extrication team. On October 22 the WFAC auxiliary will be hosting a reception for crew members.

We hope to have a good turnout including many inactive lifetime members who are the backbone of the crew.

We want to congratulate the WFAC auxiliary for winning 4th place in their scrapbook competition as well as an attendance award. These are some of the hardest working folks in our organization, and we would be lost without their continued support.

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2016/17 VAVRS Officers Left to Right-Front Row: Gary Dalton, Chaplain; Connie Moore, Secretary; Scott Davis, Vice President; Kim Craig, President; Greg Burton, Training Officer; Patrick Scott Dist 1VP; Ruth Johnson, Dist 9VP. Back Row: Tarry Pribble, Treasurer; Chris Snyder, Dist 3VP; Curtis Crawford, Dist 7VP; Jason Morgan, Dist 5VP; Thomas Tomlin, Dist 8VP; Scottie Adams, Dist 6VP; Wesley Melson, Dist 10VP.

2016-2017 VAVRS Officers President Kim Craig Vice President Scott Davis Secretary Connie Moore Treasurer Tarry Pribble Training Officer Greg Burton Chaplain Gary Dalton Chaplain Emeritus Page Entsminger Historian Frank Smith Editor Karen Wagner Chief Rescue Officer Bubby Bish Legal Advisor Mary Malone Parliamentarian Steve Southworth Immediate Past President Rickey Hodge Medical Advisor James R. Dudley, MD, MBA

District 1 V. P. Patrick Scott District 2 V. P. Carolyn White District 3 V. P. Chris Snyder District 5 V. P. Jason Morgan District 6 V. P. Scottie Adams District 7 V. P. Curtis Crawford District 8 V. P. Thomas Tomlin District 9 V. P. Ruth Johnson District 10 V. P. Wesley Melson Training Coordinator Kathy Eubank Office Assistant Cindy Bailey Bookkeeper Cynthia Babb Lobbyist Ed Rhodes

2016-2017 VAVRS Committee Chairs Membership & Human Resources: Scott Davis Bylaws: Bruce Stratton Life Membership: Steve Davis Publication: Karen Wagner Conference Chair: Tarry Pribble Conference Co Chair: Bubby Bish Finance: Tarry Pribble Future Vision Chair: Ken Morgan Future Vision Co Chair: Mac McGuire Rescue College Chair: Wayne Myers

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EMS Advisory Board: Valeta Daniels New Course Development: Cecil Leach Scholarship: Greg Burton Public Relations/Recruitment & Retention: Wesley Melson Rescue Hall of Fame: Lin Matthews EMS Exchange: Kevin Dillard Facility Manager: George Langford Legislative: Bubby Bish Volunteer Management Co Chair: David Tesh Volunteer Management Co Chair: Walter Stephens

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From The VAVRS President Kim Craig Congratulations to all VAVRS officers and competition teams. It was another successful Conference with a fun filled week. Planning is already underway for next year’s Conference. Contracts have been signed with the Virginia Beach Convention Center and the Hotel. Please send your suggestions and ideas on Conference to the Committee. The 2017 Conference Chair and Co-Chair are Tarry Pribble and Bubby Bish.

After Conference, I would like to continue on the goals from my last term and expand on them. One of my goals is continually being met by getting members involved. I received a lot of response from the flyer “VAVRS Needs You”. It was so exciting to hear from so many members. As you will see the Committee Chairs and Committees will be posted, this goal is progressing. Marketing and Public Relations is so important for VAVRS. I have heard so many suggestions about getting a Public Relations person. I will be appointing a PR committee and a Chair that can lead this committee on a marketing campaign.

From District meets and meetings attended, I still hear the question “What does VAVRS do for me?” I have written about this before and so often speak to it. Every member needs to be able to answer this question without hesitation. Yes, VAVRS is about training but there is so much more. We don’t just offer training, we have the best instructors across this Commonwealth. Our instructors will travel to provide free training to the membership. Our members receive certification cards from the courses they take. The courses meet the standards for competency in the areas taught. Most of the classes such as Vehicle Extrication, Ropes, EVOC, Vertical Rescue and other technical rescue classes do not require pre requisites as other organization classes do. We provide training that meets the continuing education requirements required by National Registry and the State of Virginia. So encourage agencies to take advantage of the training that we offer.

VAVRS has a legislative lobbyist that speaks for EMS. But it takes more than the legislative lobbyist to address the issues. The legislative committee members are the ones that speak to the Senators and Delegates. The voice of EMS providers are being heard through VAVRS to the legislatures. Our members are the ones who attend meetings with our lobbyist. VAVRS keeps the EMS agencies informed on the issues being discussed. There is strength in numbers, belonging to the Association establishes a support system of experienced people who are motivated to get things done. Belonging to the association enhances your network of contacts. Our members connect with other members to share ideas, ask advice, reach goals and learn about breaking news within the EMS community. Please, if there is any question about what “VAVRS can do for you” contact any Officer.

Kathy Eubank and George Langford received induction into the VAVRS Rescue Hall of Fame. Scott Davis, Jimmy Rice and Bill Cam received VAVRS Life membership. Thanks to each of these individuals for their many years of dedicated service and Congratulations. This is an honor so well deserved by each of you.

“Our members connect with other members to share ideas, ask advice, reach goals and learn about breaking news within the EMS community”

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The Virginia EMS Symposium is coming soon. I would like to encourage all of our members to attend. VAVRS supports the EMS symposium. Hope to see you there.

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as Your President. The Executive Committee has worked hard over this past year to achieve many accomplishments. As your President it is my responsibility to listen, hear and follow through with the recommendations and ideas of the membership. Thank You for your support and help over the past year. I believe that we truly made a difference. I am looking forward to working with each of you over the coming year so that we can work together to move in the right direction and the right direction is forward. We will continue to Make a Difference!!

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From the AVAVRS President Harry Householder I want to thank the AVAVRS Officers for everything you did to make our 2016 conference a success and the VAVRS for all of their help making sure we had our meeting areas and anything we needed.

Thanks so much to Kathy Eubank and Cindi Bailey from the VAVRS office for their continued support.

Big Congratulations to: Staunton Augusta Auxiliary for being chosen Auxiliary of the Year; Loudoun County Auxiliary for the Emergency Care Award; Aileen Rutherford - Bristol Auxiliary - Life Membership; Outstanding Service to - Janis Slough - Lexington and Donna Porter - Campbell County.

Scrapbook Awards 1st place District - Southwestern and Second Place to Southcentral District. Auxiliary Scrapbook - First Place to Campbell County, Second to Bensley-Bermuda, Third to Cave Spring, Fourth to Waynesboro and Honorable Mention to Greater Manassas.

We were pleased to have Sharon Campbell's Family with us on Saturday and Gary Frames Family for the Memorial Service.

Maxine Kerns, Life Member and Past President, did an outstanding job on 65th Anniversary History.

Linda Berkstresser had a Memorial for 15 members and did a nice job of remembering them all. Our Conference Chair and Co-Chair - Fern Puckett and Ruth Swicegood worked very hard on celebrating our Anniversary and all the great decorations and gifts as well as making sure our meetings and meals were in order. Stacey and Tracey Frame for an outstanding job on fundraising and helping increase the AVAVRS Treasury with all of their hard work.

Huge Thanks to my Auxiliary - Loudoun County - for all your help - transporting, decorating and helping Marie with the paperwork, in particular, Tasha Peach, Doug and Kelley Snell, Kitty Campbell along with Anna Peach and her family, Daniel Smallwood, Melody and John Judge and I am sure I left out lots of people I should thank.

So to everyone again a huge thank you!

2016-2017 AVAVRS Officers President - Harry Householder Vice President - Ailease Short Secretary - Marie Householder Treasurer - Fay Browning Chaplain - Linda Berkstresser Historian - Valarie Becker

Parliamentarian - Nancy Winner Immediate Past President - Fern Puckett Northeastern VP - Maxine Kerns Southcentral VP - Vicki Arnold Southeastern VP - Elsie Butler Southwestern VP - Diane Haga Western VP - Debbie Rohr

2016-2017 AVAVRS Committee Chairs Conference: Fern Puckett Conference: Ruth Swicegood Nominating: Donna Porter Life Membership: Jean Garrett Emergency Care: John Dimino Official

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Resolutions: Nancy Winner Membership: Ailease Short Finance: Fay Browning Roll Call: Laura Booze Roll Call: Clara Craig

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2016-2017 VAJVRS Officers President Brandon Hancock Vice President Adarah Williams Secretary/Treasurer Cara Beasley Historian Brandon Propst Chaplain Makayla McMahan Advisor, Chair Alfred Smith Advisor Brandon Baugus Advisor Kim Melson Advisor Debbie Rice

District 1 V.P. : Kalee Stevenson District 3 V.P. : Cara Beasley District 5 V.P. : Tyler McGaughey District 6 V.P. : Bradley Hancock District 6 V.P. : Toby Akers Jr. District 7 V.P. : Adarah Williams District 9 V.P. : Alice Becker District 10 V.P. :Emily Laveroni

The 2016 members of the VAVRS Hall of Fame.

Welcome and Congratulations two new members, Kathy Eubank, left and George Lankford, right.

From your Editor...

Karen D. Wagner Welcome to the pages of the LIFELINE, the Official publication of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads . I am so excited to have this opportunity to work with the members of the VAVRS. Our goal is to continue to provide you with a publication that keeps you abreast of EMS activities, news and information, training opportunities, and organizational happenings across the state. New this issue...Tell us why your agency should be featured as the “Agency of the Issue”. If your submission is chosen we will send a reporter to get your story to share with our over 15000 readers. As a reminder, you can browse the pages of this publication on line from anywhere in the world by opening the LIFELINE link located at www.vavrs.com.

Deadline for the Upcoming Issues of the VIRGINIA LIFELINE 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 at editor@vavrs.com if you need assistance in writing an article Deadline for future issues are as follows: December 1, 2016 for the January/February 2017 Issue February 1, 2017 for the March/April 2017 Issue April 1, 2017 for the May/June 2017 Issue June 1, 2017 for the July/August 2017 Issue August 1, 2017 for the September/October 2017 Issue September 1, 2017 for the Conference Issue October 1, 2017 for the November/December 2017 Issue Advertising Rates: Member Squads…,…......no charge Full Page…………………..$ 275.00 Half Page………………..…$150.00 Quarter Page……………....$100.00 Business Card……………..$ 50.00

“The VAVRS is your LIFELINE to EMS”

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The Chaplain Connection Corner Submitted by Gary Dalton, VAVRS Chaplain I am so humbled and grateful that my heart is still smiling on being elected as Chaplain of the VAVRS. A special thank you goes to Mike Smoot, the 20142016 Chaplain and his wife, Joan. Their tribute table that was on display adjacent to the VAVRS Conference Registration window was both touching and heart wrenching.

The Memorial Service during the Installation of Officers, Memorial Service and Awards Ceremony was a wonderful display of respect, love and remembrance.

In Article VI, Section 7 of the VAVRS Bylaws it states: The Chaplain shall: A. Conduct the religious exercises of the VAVRS. B. Handle the sending of memorial gifts for deceased members of the VAVRS. C. Process all requests for Deceased Member Certificates and issue same, if eligible. Shall make every effort to deliver or present same in person if requested to do so.

D. Make contact with deceased or ill member’s families and offer his assistance or other Associations Officers’ assistance when he has knowledge of same.

E. Be available to conduct memorial services or participate in other Religious Activities, upon request.

F. Be the primary spokesperson for the Death Benefit Plan.

It is my sincere promise to each of you to do my very best to fulfill the obligations and duties of VAVRS Chaplain and support the spiritual activities of our association.

Blessings to you all.

"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

Mystery Super Hero leaves a Message to the AVAVRS… The Auxiliary to the VA Assoc Rescue Squads has been a hero to the squads, auxiliaries, communities, and all those who venture along their path. From it’s inception, 65 years ago auxiliary members have demonstrated that it takes ordinary people with a tremendous heart to walk into a setting, prepare to lend a hand, work behind the scene, and do wonderful, courageous things! Your rescue squad auxiliary group truly is the hero!

In our world, we do look around for heroes to look up to, but today as a real super hero I would like to say THANK YOU to the AVAVRS Auxiliaries for everything you do for our squads & communities. You render support, donate hundreds of thousands of dollars each year and give the majority to the squads.

Your dedication, hard work & devotion to others makes a profound difference to our rescue squad association! Each and every day, you should be applauded for your role as everyday heroes. I hide behind my cape & mask…. but your job is front & center making strides 65 years & yes still going strong!

Indeed, as everyday heroes you are the greatest! Happy 65th Anniversary, keep up the great work and always know your type of hero is needed in our busy world! Congratulations—give your selves a rising vote of thanks & applause! Signed…. The Mystery Super Hero Official

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Notes from the VAVRS Secretary Submitted by Connie Moore, VAVRS Secretary Wow --- it’s hard to believe that we just celebrated our 82rd VAVRS Conference, but thanks to a great effort by many committed individuals, we’re moving forward into our 83rd year of service to our communities! Many thanks to those who supported me in my election as your Secretary and I look forward to being your voice in this Association.

Our President has asked us to share our thoughts as Officers of the VAVRS in the Lifeline, and over the next several issues I hope to show the importance of various duties of the Secretary. The accountability of the business of the VAVRS is reflected in our minutes, and their accuracy is a top priority. Copies of the minutes from every past Executive Board, BOG, Convention, Conference and any special call meetings are on file at the VAVRS Office. They have been accessed many times over the years to confirm motions, attendance, bylaw changes, and many other pertinent issues when questions have been made.

District meetings – your minutes are just as important, too?!? It wasn’t that many years ago that minutes were used to verify attendance at your meetings in order for Squads to qualify to compete at Convention/ Conference??? How soon do we forget the simple things!!

We’re approaching a great year with even greater opportunities for our members in the VAVRS – never miss a chance to share the Greatness! If I can help you or your agency in any way, please contact me by email cmoore0723@yahoo.com.

The Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad is looking to find a good home for six portable 8-pack metal gear racks, pictures attached, which are being replaced.

These sell new for $1,000 each. We're asking $250 each.

Those interested may contact me at the numbers listed below.

Pete Rockx, President, GMVRS Cell: 703-609-4280 Station: 703-361-2030 Page

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Waynesboro First Air Crew Auxiliary Cece McCormick, Historian and Jill Stachowski Summer has ended and we have been very busy. The auxiliary helped out at the Waynesboro First Aid Crew’s booth giving out information and safety pamphlets at the National Night Out. We had our annual picnic for the WFAC and Auxiliary at the Acres in Stuarts Draft. It was a nice turn out.

Cece McCormick is working on putting the scrapbook together for Conference and Danny McCormick is practicing with the heavy duty truck team. On August 25th we lost a lifetime auxiliary member, Martha Braden. The Auxiliary served a luncheon for the family and friends. The family cannot express enough gratitude to the organizations at the state and district levels, on how they made the entire Braden / McCormick family feel loved and blessed to be an important part of these organizations.

Historian Cece McCormick sent the scrapbook off in time for the deadline. We had our monthly drill Thursday night and Friday morning the Auxiliary fixed dinner on Thursday night and breakfast on Friday morning. Conference is here, we, the Auxiliary, host a hospitality room for all crew members, auxiliary and their families and we even feed the hotel staff. Wanda Braden hosted the sign-in table for officers, life members, and past presidents for each day we had a meeting. The Waynesboro FAC A auxiliary collected door prizes for each meeting. We attended the VAVRS picnic which was very good. We loved socializing and the fellowship with all the other auxiliaries and crew members. Great job! Four of our auxiliary members road in a unit in the parade. Saturday morning the auxiliary won the attendance award for 14 and over, we took 4th place in scrapbook and our own, Berniece Payne received a certificate of service from the AVAVRS nominating committee.

Saturday nights’ awards the heavy duty truck team took 1st place, and our senior EMT team took 1st place. Our own David Price, received an award for being an instructor 2nd place for best appearance rescue team. We are very proud of all our teams and crew members and remember we are all Everyday Heroes!

Well with fall approaching and having cooler weather and until next time, everyone stay safe.

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News from District Nine

Submitted by Ruth T. Stanley, Glade Spring VLSC Several agencies from District 9 were represented at 2016 Conference. Washington County Life Saving Crew brought home three trophies, 2nd Place Light Duty Rescue, 6th Place BLS and 1st Place Best appearing Ambulance in the Parade, Glade spring Volunteer Life Saving Crew brought two trophies, 2nd Place Senior Scrapbook and 4th place Best Appearing Ambulance in the Parade, Southwest District Auxiliary brought home a trophy for their scrapbook. Ruth Johnson of Bristol Life Saving Crew was sworn in as the first female District 9 VP.

Washington County Life Saving Crew members that attended the 2016 conference with their trophies.

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AVAVRS Vice President Ailease Short I think everyone enjoyed our anniversary celebration at Virginia Beach recently.

It was a lot of fun and we need to commend Fern Puckett, Ruth Swicegood, Maxine Kerns, and Harry Householder for a gala event. We learned a lot about our history from the games.

But now it is time to get down to some serious business, finding new auxiliaries to join our wonderful association. It is crunch time we are down to 29 auxiliaries in the AVAVRS. I presented each district vice-president with survival buckets to be on lookout for interested auxiliaries.

as

If any of the squads out there in our state have auxiliaries please encourage them to join our association and if you don’t have an auxiliary see if you can spark some interest in forming one. The district VP's and myself are willing to help.

Congratulations to Staunton Augusta on receiving the Auxiliary of the Year Award. Congratulations to Janis Slough and Donna Porter on receiving the Outstanding Service Award and to Aileen Rutherford on receiving Life Membership. Also congratulations to all contest winners and scrapbook winners.

Keep up the good work that all of you do across the state. Each of your auxiliaries is valuable to your squads.

It was wonderful to see Sharon Campbell’s three daughters and family at the conference.

Hope to see many of you this coming year as I travel around the state.

District 5 News Submitted by Joan Smoot, Dist 5 Historian What a great Conference at Virginia Beach! Thanks to Ford Wirt, Mike Moore, Jack Jones and Ronnie Slough for all of their hard work and dedication over the years to the VAVRS. Also, thanks to all of the Conference coordinators, judges and committee members. Without all of you, we could not have Conference.

District 5 rocked at Conference this year. We may not have won 1st place in all of the competitions, but we certainly represented each contest and held our own.

Congratulations to the following winners of District 5: PARADE AWARDS: Best Appearing Ambulance: Altavista EMS – 2nd Place; Best Appearing Rescue Truck: Southside – 1st Place SPECIAL AWARDS: ALS Call of the Year: Danville – 1st Place; VAVRS Scrapbook – Gretna – 1st Place; VAVRS District Scrapbook: District 5 – 1st Place; EVOC: Woody Connor – Kenbridge – 1st Place; Jason Morgan – Campbell Co. – 5th Place; VEHICLE EXTRICATION CONTEST: Modular Ambulance:Southside-1st Place; Light Duty Rescue Truck: Southside – 3rd Place; Heavy Duty Rescue TruckSouthside – 2nd Place; ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT: Southside – 3rd Place; EMT CONTEST: Southside rd st – 3 Place and Campbell County Auxiliary placed 1 Place in the Auxiliary Scrapbook Award. Overall, District 5 did extremely well. Certainly, I we want to congratulate Jimmy Rice and Bill Camm on their highest achievement in the VAVRS, their award of Life Membership.

Jason Morgan was installed for a second term as District 5’s Vice President and Connie Moore was installed as the VAVRS Secretary and Tarry Pribble was installed for a second term as Treasurer. Frank Smith was appointed as the new VAVRS Historian for the coming year. So, District 5 is well represented on the State level. Our next meeting is November 5th at Concord. Hope to see some of you there.!

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District 3 News Submitted by Chris Snyder, District 3 VP I am excited to have your confidence to serve you and your agencies on the district level with the VAVRS. I am looking forward to a great year as your District VP and hope we can all work together to grow our district and offer new and fun programs to our member agencies. The VAVRS has made some positive, yet maybe not so popular changes over the last year and with the recent changes at the conference last week, we are looking to grow and take the VAVRS into the future. I look forward to my first meeting as your District VP at my home squad, Manchester, on November 5th. I come into this position nervous and I know I have big shoes to fill from previous District VP’s before me. I hope to not let you all down.

I am looking to fill some roles in the immediate future as well as finding host squads for our upcoming meetings. I do not plan to make drastic changes in our district officer list, but I do want to put it out there that if you would like to serve on a committee or as a chairperson, to please let me know ASAP. Please share this information with your squads and try to recruit new members who would like to serve and assist the mission of the VAVRS on the district level.

We have all four 2017 meetings that need host squads. I know in the past we have attempted an alphabetical order rotation but that doesn’t always work. If your squad is interested in hosting a district meeting please let me know by October 15th. Please discuss with your Executive Board the need for a space to hold our meetings. I will be putting together a document to assist all host squads when hosting a meeting. Some squads do not know what is needed to be done to host one. I will be here to help…

November 5, 2016 – Manchester Station 2 (Winterpock Road) February 4, 2017 – TBD May 6, 2017 – TBD August 5, 2017 – TBD November 4, 2017 – TBD Thank you for all you do for your home agencies and the VAVRS. I look forward to working with each of you. I challenge you all to help grow our attendance at meetings and getting our junior members involved. I have some ideas for the upcoming year and look forward to sharing some things about myself and my goals for 2017 as your district VP.

65th AVAVRS Anniversary Acknowledgement Submitted by Maxine Kerns, AVAVRS Past President, Life Member Congratulations to the AVAVRS as they celebrated their 65th anniversary while at conference. Kudos to everyone in the auxiliary family for the multitude of blessings yielded. Thanks to the auxiliaries, districts and members for providing numerous mementos and memorabilia shared with all our members. The display room was filled to capacity and allowed visitors to take a walk back through time and celebrate events and priceless memories. President Harry Householder's theme Everyday Heroes was a great tribute and reminded us of the members and the journey traveled. Throughout the conference, AVAVRS officers provided their reports, members participated during the meetings, an auxiliary quiz was provided to challenge our knowledge of the history, a presidents word search was provided, and pictures of 5 AVAVRS officers were posted so that members could GUESS WHO. On Friday a fun filled version of AUXILIARY JEOPARDY brought to life information from our 65 years. Thanks to Chris Gillikin, Vickie Arnold, Maxie Skeen, and Lilli Gaunt Plummer for letting us laugh & learn while taking a glimpse of our history. On Saturday we had information shared from our 65 years. Virgie Gallahan Miller, Past President & life member who was present at the 1st meeting 65 years ago shared comments from a pre- recorded interview. The middle of September, Virgie commented on her role as Past President and how appreciative and blessed she was to be part of the AVAVRS family. Our entire association is truly blessed to share in our activities. Thanks for all that you do to uplift, enlighten and encourage our members ENJOY! Page

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Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Gets 2 New Sets of Wheels Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (CBVRS) recently welcomed a new ambulance and a new pickup truck to its fleet of EMS vehicles.

The ambulance was purchased through a 50/50 grant from the Virginia Office of EMS Rescue Squad Assistance Fund. Some special features of the vehicle, which is made by Demers Ambulances, include: 

A high-tech power load cot fastener system manufactured by Stryker EMS

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Captain’s chairs (instead of bench seating) that allow the provider to sit facing forward while providing patient care

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Climate-controlled section for drug storage

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All LED lights

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Automated on/off capabilities when vehicle is on the scene of a call, based on the temperature and battery life of the vehicle

The pickup truck is a quick-response vehicle that will be used by Advanced Life Support (ALS) providers to respond to calls or to provide assistance and additional help to reach the emergency scene more quickly.

“Demers Ambulances are rated as world-class by every measurement, and we are so excited to have such a versatile, high-performance vehicle right here in Colonial Beach,” said Wesley Melson, Rescue Chief of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad. “Along with the ambulance, the new pickup truck will help us provide the best EMS care possible for all the communities within our wide-spread service area.m

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Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Earns VAVRS Recognitions Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad (CBVRS) earned several individual and group awards at the annual convention of the Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS), held September 20-24 in Virginia Beach, Va. Recognitions to the whole squad included: 

Website of the Year – 2nd Place

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Emergency Vehicle Operator (EVOC) Competition – 3rd Place

In addition, Wesley Melson, Rescue Chief of CBVRS, was honored with the District Vice President Award.

The award was based on the district’s achievements in participation, growth and special events.

Two CBVRS members will serve VAVRS 10th District in the following capacities: 

Makayla McMahan was re-elected to serve as the Junior Association Chaplain

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Wesley Melson was re-elected to serve as the 10th District Vice President

“Our organization serves communities located throughout the broad geographic area of Colonial Beach and Westmoreland County, and we couldn’t do it without the dedication and commitment of our members, juniors and support team,” said Wesley Melson. “We are proud to be recognized as a high-performing squad within VAVRS. Also, Makayla and I look forward to another year as leaders in the 10th District.”

CBVRS Chief Selected for Leadership Fredericksburg Program Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Wesley Melson, Rescue Chief of Colonial Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad and Deputy Chief of Operations for LifeCare Medical Transports in Fredericksburg, is one of 30 local Fellows selected to participate in the 2017 class of Leadership Fredericksburg, sponsored by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Along with attending sessions to learn leadership skills from various industry and community leaders, each Fellow will be paired with a trained mentor from the business community to provide ongoing support throughout the program. Also, participants will work on teams in partnership with an area nonprofit to conduct an action learning project and make presentations to the nonprofit in the spring of next year. Leadership Fredericksburg begins in September 2016 and concludes in May 2017.

"I'm honored to be selected with such a great group of leaders," said Melson. "This is an awesome opportunity and I'm looking forward to everything that this program has to offer."

Melson is a 2015 graduate of the VAVRS EMS Leadership Challenge.

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Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue Moves Into New Station Submitted by Sara Hunt PR Spotsylvania County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management held a dedication ceremony on September 8 for Fire/ Rescue Station 5, located at 6204 Plank Road in Fredericksburg.

Timothy McLaughlin, Spotsylvania County Board Chair and Chancellor District Supervisor, was one of the local county and EMS leaders who attended the dedication ceremony.

Members of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue and career firefighters will maintain the staffing schedule for the 16,343-square-foot station, which broke ground in October 2014.

Timothy McLaughlin, Spotsylvania County Board Chair and Chancellor District Supervisor, makes remarks at the dedication of the new Fire/Rescue Station 5 in Fredericksburg on Sept.8.

Kevin Dillard, Administrative Chief of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue stands at the far left.

“We are very excited to be moving into Station 5 at long last, after about two years of construction,” said Kevin Dillard, Administrative Chief of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue. “It’s a beautiful building and we know that the citizens of Spotsylvania County will be as proud of it as we are!”

The beautiful exterior of Station 5 Fire/Rescue Station located at 6204 Plank Road in Fredericksburg.

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Several members of Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue recently participated in a training session to practice wound packing. Heather Breeden and Justin Williams are supervised by instructor Doug Lowe. Rick Charles from CVFR (not pictured) also attended the session.

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“Agency of the Issue�

Buena Vista Rescue Squad Celebrates 75 Years of Service Few ever reach the pinnacle of 75 years in business, however, the Buena Vista Rescue Squad marked this one for the record books celebrating their 75th anniversary of providing public service to the citizens of Buena Vista and surrounding Rockbridge County. On October 1, 2016 the agency hosted an Open House welcoming their community in to see first hand what it takes to successfully run the business of life saving. At the celebration, there were displays and food, as well as bouncy houses, rides and other entertainment through out the day. The whole block around the squad's building in downtown Buena Vista was closed off for the community celebration.

"They've served us well in monetary and moral support throughout the 75 years," says Ron Slough, President of the Rescue Squad of the town he serves, "And we just wanted to show our appreciation to the people."

A great deal of preparation went in to planning this once in a lifetime event.

There were interviews with TV, radio and newspapers, publicity to announce the event, gathering entertainment, planning activities, meeting with local officials, preparing and serving food, selecting and ordering give away items, marketing, cleaning equipment, painting the building, organizing help, covering calls, contacting members who had long gone away...its a lot of WORK and its why this agency continues to be an example of success in EMS in Virginia for 75 consecutive years.

To appreciate their success it helps to know something about the squads history.

In 1940, many citizens of Buena Vista took advantage of a First Aid course that was required of all individuals involved in civil defense work. As a result, a group of young men joined together to form the First Aid and Life Saving Crew. Their main goal was to assist the local fire company with first aid.

In 1941 the crew became defunct due to the United States involvement in World War II, as members from both the fire company and rescue squad were drafted. Things resumed where they left off, after the end of the war. In 1948, the Life Saving Crew drew apart from the fire company and organized their own group. The crew had acquired very little equipment: one aluminum boat, donated by the Lion's Club, (Continued on page 19)

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some rope, several spot lights, Scott Air Packs, and a first aid kit for each member.

With the help of Senator Willis A. Robertson, the crew acquired a four-wheel drive military ambulance, which on many occasions had to be pushed to be started.

In November of 1949 the crew broke ground for a building of their own. Buena Vista became the thirteenth rescue squad to join the Virginia Association of Rescue Squads. In 1956 two of their members were elected to offices at the state level. This was quite an honor as the squad had only been organized a total of eight years.

Since that time the squad has had four other members elected to the state level. One of those members, Ronnie Slough, has held four positions, including state president during 1996 and 1997.

Members of the rescue squad are no strangers to disaster. The city of Buena Vista has a distinguished history when it comes to flooding. Members are ready, day or night, to make daring rescues by boat or fourwheel drive to all in need. Members not only understand but live the words volunteer and sacrifice.

No one knows when or where disaster will strike... the rescue squad, however, will remain trained and ready to respond to any emergency where life can be saved. Congratulations from the VAVRS.

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District 10 Fall Rescue Camp for Kids Submitted by Steve Dove

Despite less than favorable weather conditions the 7th Annual VAVRS District 10 Fall Rescue Camp for Kids was another huge success. Overcast skies with intermittent rain showers greeted the participants as they arrived at the Fredericksburg EXPO & Conference Center on Saturday, October 8, 2016. With the gloomy skies overhead the camp began with a mock auto crash caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol.

Responding to the incident Fredericksburg Rescue Squad treated a juvenile passenger in a vehicle for transport to a local emergency room. The Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department responding with the Heavy Rescue to help with stabilization of the vehicle and demonstrated how someone would be extricated from a vehicle that may be trapped. The driver of one of the vehicles was suspected of DUI and with the assistance of the Virginia State Police investigating the accident it resulted in a sobriety check of the driver. The participants were able to see what field test are conducted to determine if a person may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Participants learned that impaired driving can result extremely bad consequences.

After all patients are treated and the investigation has completed the scene was turned over to Coleman Towing to recover the vehicles. The kids learned that the towing companies are just as (Continued on page 24)

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From the Legislative Attic Submitted by Ed Rhodes

What a conference! Seeing old (not necessarily old), renewing friendships and so forth. Congratulations to the officers that were elected and the new committee chairs who were also appointed.

Some changes have been made in the makeup of the Legislative Committee, but that will be good. We will have a briefing for the new and returning members prior to January to insure they are ready to go, making plans for the annual visit by the committee in early January.

The week after conference was spent with the EMS Advisory Board Rules and Regulations Committee and the Legislative and Planning Committee. The first meeting of the R&R committee resulted in a number of changes, additions and deletions in the regulations. This product will go to the advisory board at their November meeting during symposium for us to continue working. The L&P committee worked on the statewide EMS plan in preparation for that product to go to the Board of Health either in February or May after approval by the advisory board also.

Legislative proposals are slowly being introduced, but there should be an influx by mid-November. Some bills have been introduced and include hate crimes that include EMS providers, crimes against public safety personnel. Bills still being worked on included mandatory EVOC training, mental health training and fire related bills. The funding bill for the state police will probably be reintroduced in January. If you remember, this is the bill that increased the vehicle registration fees by $2.50 annually for ten years, culminating with an overall increase of $12.50. This is the same funding source EMS uses for $4.25 for Life.

The Virginia Fire Services Council has been facilitating meetings during the summer months looking for opportunities to enhance the status of fire and EMS with the legislature. A brochure is being developed to be given to the General Assembly members prior to the start of the session in January.

I look forward to the coming year and visiting as many of the district meetings as possible. I would also like to see the District Vice Presidents submit articles for each issue of the LIFELINE, if I can do it I know you can (there is a challenge in there somewhere). Any questions please feel free to contact me.

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much a vital part of the incident as the first responders. Not only is their job to clean the scene up, but they must not cause any more damage to the vehicles than necessary to remove them. The participants also heard from the Fredericksburg Police Department about the dangers of working on the highway and the importance of the “Move Over” law.

Kids learned that no matter where they are sitting in a motor vehicle they must wear their seat belt and avoid distracting the driver, whose attention should be on the road at all times.

As the scene from the mock auto crash was cleaned up and the responders returned to their stations, the kids began to break out into their afternoon sessions. As the rain was becoming more intense outside all the events for the camp were moved indoors.

Greg with the Falmouth Volunteer Fire Department (Stafford) and VAVRS Life Member Jimmy Rice (Altavista) conducted a training seminar on rope rescue. Kids learned that they could accomplish a lot more by using a pulley system and that it was important to work with their head and not mere strength. “The tough guy does not always win, the guy with the brains is the one that has the advantage” explained Jimmy, as the kids attempted to win a tug of war challenge against some of the instructors.

A return station that the kids thoroughly enjoy each year in the American Heart Association’s Friends and Family CPR Course. Special thanks to Angela Juliana, Jeff Walker and Suzy Brooks from Aquia Harbour Rescue Squad (Stafford) for putting on this presentation for the kids. The quick action from bystanders can help save a life. Not only did the kids learn how to compress on the chest for a suspected cardiac arrest victim, but they learn how to use an Automated External Defibrillator to help “reboot” a patient’s heart they may have an electrical arrhythmia. A common arrhythmia in cardiac arrest is ventricular fibrillation. This is when the heart's lower chambers suddenly start beating chaotically and don't pump blood. Death occurs within minutes after the heart stops. Cardiac arrest may be reversed if CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is performed and a defibrillator is used to shock the heart and restore a normal heart rhythm within a few minutes.

The kids enjoyed taking part in the moulage station which incorporated how to treat a second degree burn which the kids created on their (Continued on page 25)

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hands. Using petroleum jelly and some artist make-up the wounds became realistic looking. The participants learned that treatment of a burn should include stopping the burning process and bandaging with a dry sterile dressing. The kids learned that they should never pop a blister that is the result of a burn, this threatens to cause an infection at the burn site and could lead to additional complications.

Beth Addington and Dawn Vaillancourt from Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department (Spotsylvania) provided all the instructions to the kids on how to apply the moulage and bandaging of the wound site. Beth and Dawn also coordinated an exciting craft project for the kids to learn about the bones of the body. Kids learned that there are 206 bones in the human body and that the femur is the largest bone. The participants enjoyed making skeletons out of Q-tips.

Special thanks to Gail Rice (Altavista) for providing the plasma cars that have been used at several of the Rescue Camps around the state. Gail watched the excitement as the kids donned DUI Simulation Goggles and attempted to maneuver the cars around placards placed on the floor. Kids learned that impaired driving definitely hinders one’s ability to operate a vehicle. The goggles proved that blurred vision can have an impact on how well you may see obstacles such as the placards they had to maneuver around. While the station was a huge hit, the kids realized that the dangers of driving under the influence is not to be taken lightly. While there were lots of smiles and laughter on the driving course, everyone understood that DUI is no joking matter.

Finally the kids participated in a 911 Program conducted by Tyler Williamson and Nick Smoot of the Fredericksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad. The presentation talked about what to do when calling 911. Kids learned from a video presentation by “Cell Phone Sally� what to say to a dispatcher in a real emergency. The kids were able to practice making 911 calls to a dispatcher and answer all the questions. The kids then saw how the information they had just provided to 911 is dispatched to emergency responders via the radio system. Tyler and Nick also provided information on how EMS responders obtain vital signs on patients in the field.

Participants practiced putting on the blood pressure cuff and checking the SPO2 stats of their patients. They also learned how to properly buckle a (Continued on page 26)

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patient on the stretcher and prepare for transport.

As the day came to a close the participants each received a certificate of achievement and a medal to recognize their participation in the 7th Annual Fall Rescue Camp for Kids. VAVRS District 10 is honored to host this event each October. Be sure to check out all of the photos from the event on our Facebook page.

We look forward to the 8th Annual Camp on October 14, 2017 at the Fredericksburg EXPO & Conference Center!

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ON BEHALF OF THE VAVRS, AVAVRS AND VAJVRS WE WISH YOU PEACE, LOVE AND HEALTH. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

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EMS Officer - Leadership vs. Management In the business of EMS, what is the difference between management and leadership?

It is a question that has been asked more than once and also answered in different ways. The easy answer and the biggest difference between managers and leaders is the way they motivate the people who work or follow them. Which role they take sets the tone for most other aspects of an agency and has been directly related to whether the agency succeeds or fails.

Many EMS Officers, by the way, are both. They have management positions, but they realize that you cannot buy hearts, especially to follow them down a difficult path, and so act as leaders too.

Managers have Subordinates By definition, managers have subordinates - unless their title is honorary and given as a mark of seniority, in which case the title is a misnomer, their power over others is other than formal authority.

Managers have a position of authority vested in them by the agency, and their subordinates work for them and largely do as they are told. Management style is transactional, in that the manager tells the subordinate what to do, and the subordinate does this not because they are a blind robot, but because they have been promised a reward, perhaps at minimum a salary for doing so.

Generally, managers are paid to get things done, that means they are subordinates too, and they often complete their job duties within tight constraints of time and money. They naturally pass on that same work focus to their subordinates.

Studies have found that managers tend to come from stable backgrounds and led relatively normal and comfortable positions within their EMS agency. This leads them to be relatively risk-averse and they will seek to avoid conflict where possible. In terms of people, they generally like to run a 'happy ship'.

Leaders have Followers Leaders do not have subordinates - at least not when they are leading. Most EMS organizational leaders do have subordinates, that only occurs when they act as managers of a team of officers or a board that runs the agency. But when they want to lead, they have to give up formal authoritarian control, because to lead is to have followers, and following is always a voluntary activity.

Telling people what to do does not inspire them to follow you.

You have to appeal to them, showing how following you will lead them to their hearts' desire. They must want to follow you enough to stop what they are doing and perhaps walk into danger and situations that they would not normally consider risking.

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SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES…Debbie Rice & Gail Rice We have recently updated our Facebook page “VAVRS Kids Camps” with pictures from our Rescue Camp for Kids at Rescue College 2016 and Conference 2016. Check out what the kids are learning about the fields of Public Safety. We will continue to post pictures on this page for future camps.

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EMS leaders with a stronger charisma find it easier to attract people to their cause. As a part of their persuasion they typically promise transformational benefits, such that their followers will not just receive rewards but will somehow become better people or the agency will improve.

Although many leaders have a charismatic style to some extent, this does not require a loud personality. Good leaders are always good with people and a leader that gives credit to others and takes blame on themselves are very effective at creating the loyalty that great leaders generate.

Although leaders are good with people, this does not mean they are friendly with them. In order to keep the mystique of leadership, they often retain a degree of separation and reserve.

This does not mean that leaders do not pay attention to tasks - in fact they are often very achievementfocused. What they do realize, however, is the importance of motivating others to work towards a vision.

Managers are generally seen as risk-averse, where leaders however as risk-seeking. Good leaders are not blind thrill-seekers. When pursuing their vision, they consider it natural to encounter problems and hurdles that must be overcome along the way. They are comfortable with risk and will see routes that others avoid as potential opportunities for advantage and will happily break rules in order to get things done. A study showed a surprising number of these leaders have had some form of handicap in their lives which they had to overcome. This perhaps taught them the independence of mind that is needed to go out on a limb and not worry about what others are thinking about you.

When asking someone to take on a leadership role, an agency must have a good sense of the differences between being a leader and being a manager. Do you want that role to manage your existing processes or do you want that role to lead you into the future. You can have someone be both‌however, to be successful your agency must make it clear what it expects from the leader and more importantly they must allow their leader to lead.

Supporting their actions, be willing to accept and follow their path to success because even good leaders will fail without the support of all the players. Simple recommendation‌ Start at the beginning, clearly understand your role, know what the expectations are, set SMART goals, follow a plan of action and get to leading!

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Dear Rescue Ranger Dear Rescue Ranger, I know you know lots of things but I bet you don’t know why frogs are so happy? They are happy because they eat whatever bugs them! Ha! Laughing Dear Laughing, What do you call a frog that crosses the road, jumps in a mud puddle, and crosses the road again? A dirty doublecrosser!

to the second traffic light? Don’t look, I’m changing!

Dear Rescue Ranger, Ole’ wise one I sure could use some advice. It is tough out here—following federal and state laws, VAOEMS rules and regulations, local protocols, agency procedures and more and more and more. Why can’t life have just a few rules. Things would be a lot simpler.

Overwhelmed Dear Overwhelmed, Life is simple. There are only two rules for success in life: Rule 1—Don’t tell people everything you know.

Dear Rescue Ranger, In one of your past columns you said you were a history buff.

Got a question for you. What did George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Christopher Columbus all have in common?

History Buff Fan Dear Ken, They were all born on holidays.

Dear Rescue Ranger, It seems like we are always putting labels on people with physiological disorders. I had a patient the other day that intentionally stuck his right hand in a meat slicer. What would you call him?

EMT 1 Dear EMT 1, Lefty!

Dear Rescue Ranger, I was recently honored by being appointed as a VAVRS EVOC IT. I have been reading all of the reference material and studying the question bank. I have a good handle on most of it but I do have one question.

Which is correct regarding a lighted traffic control device?

Should it be referred to as a traffic light or a stoplight?

NEW EVOC IT Dear Chris, Good question. I am glad you asked. A wise friend of my, Mr. J. C. Phillips, told me once a stop light is also a go light so I am sure traffic light is the proper reference. By the way, do you know what one traffic light said

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Dear Rescue Ranger, You and I were talking last week at the conference about how to cure the common cold and you said drink plenty of soup, especially “gold” soup? I did some research and couldn’t find “gold” soup. How do you turn soup into gold?

Cook Dear Mr. Cook, Put 14 carrots in it.

Dear Rescue Ranger, I heard you speak at a banquet recently and you mentioned that you were pretty rich. You also stated you did it by eating. How can someone get rich by eating?

Pleasantly Plump Dear Bubby, Eat fortune cookies.

People tell me I am a man of few words.

Shy Dear Shy, I’m married too.

Dear Rescue Ranger, Got one for you. If a crocodile makes shoes, what does a banana make? Slippers! Ha! Working Dear Working, A teacher once asked me to give her a sentence with the words defense, defeat and detail in it.

Start talking Dear Start, I would have said, “When a horse jumps over defence, defeat go before detail.”

Rescue Ranger Advice: Never discard a used AED, you can always find a good use for them!

Dear Rescue Ranger, You describe yourself as a “simple man with simple needs”.

I think I am a lot like you.

VAVRS

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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

For a list of the training courses being offered by the VAVRS go to WWW.VAVRS.COM Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads, Inc. PO Box 279 2535 Turkey Creek Road Oilville, VA 23129 (800)833-0602

(804)749-8191

Website: www.vavrs.com Email: vavrs@vavrs.com

HAVING AN IN-DEPTH UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR NEEDS AND GOALS IS THE WAY WE SERVE YOU The Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads is THE voice of EMS…. the advocate for our members, Virginia’s EMS agencies and providers. We link members and agencies for the purpose of sharing ideas, giving you a voice at the General Assembly, on state advisory boards, as well as on state and local committees.

When our members have training issues or needs, they come to the VAVRS. When our members need assistance from leadership to budgets they come to the VAVRS. We help rescue squads throughout the Commonwealth thrive and succeed so they can provide prompt, effective patient care 24/7 in the communities they serve.

Celebrating our 82nd Anniversary