VOLUME 18, NO. 5
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
OCTOBER 2015
Recently, Citizens’ Hose Company crews extinguished a car fire with exposure to a building at Dupont Highway and Duck Creek Road. - Submitted by CHC
A Publication of
WWW.FIRENEWS .COM
Delaware Fire Service News Welcomes Everyone to the DVFA/LADVFA Conference See page 8
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... Fully Involved in Bear Arriving units are met with a single-family dwelling fully involved in the town of Bear. See story page 13
Selbyville Restaurant Destroyed Selbyville Volunteer FC, Frankford, Roxana and Bishopville responded to a fire at Pomeroy’s Restaurant and Bar. See story page 14
Greenwood Handles Apartment House Blaze On July 23, 2015, Greenwood Stations were alerted to a building fire at Sea Chase Apartments. See story page 16
Millville 2-Car MVC Millville and Roxana Volunteer Fire Companies, were dispatched to a twovehicle MVC involving a tractor-trailer and a compact SUV. See story page 17
Delaware in Training Coverage of training exercises across Delaware. See story page 22
Rehoboth Beach Inaugural Fire Fightin’ 5k Run 246 runners came out to support the Capital Campaign Fund. See story page 32
PLUS: Hose Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 4 & 55 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 54 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 56 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 56 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 58 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 58
An independently owned news and information resource for the dedicated firefighters, emergency medical technicians, auxiliary members, and public safety officials in the State of Delaware. Thanks to the support of its advertisers, this newspaper is distributed free of charge to every fire station in the First State. Published quarterly by Fire News, Inc., 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. Delaware Fire Service News is a registered trademark and all material contained herein is copyrighted. All rights reserved. Frank C. Trotta, Publisher Tim Edwards, Executive Editor Dennis Whittam, Editor Gary Joyce, Asst. Editor Marie Trotta, Vice President, Production/Sales Cliff Chiesa, Art Director Barbara Connolly, Director of Sales & Marketing Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler Graphic Artists Warren F. Jones and Thomas J. Mitten, Publishers Emeritus Sal DeVivo, Founding Publisher Contributors: Mark Anderson, Steve Austin, Wayne Barrall, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Richard S. Danner, Michele Ehart, Mark Felicetti, Robert Fox, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Ann Marie Krystopolski, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Christy Paxson, Phil Pennington Sr., Tony Petralia, Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, James Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Brian Slattery, Chuck Snyder, Rick Stewart, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Stephanie Wales, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Paul Watts, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 or email Tim@FireNews.com. We reserve the right to reject, edit, or decline to publish any advertising material submitted. Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. NEWS: News items about fire, rescue, and EMS activities in our coverage area are welcome. Contact us at 631-687-0343 or email: Tim@FireNews.com. Deadline for news is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. Material submitted is subject to editing and cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. SUBSCRIPTIONS: All fire stations in Delaware receive a sufficient number of copies for their personnel. Those wishing to receive direct delivery may subscribe for $25.00 per year, paid in advance to Delaware Fire Service News, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Index of Advertisers AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 45 Amer. Military Univ ............. 17 ASI ....................................... 53 Atlantic Emergency Solutions .................. 5, 23, 30, 31, 35, 59 Bayhealth ............................. 25 Breaking News Network ...... 55 Bryon Short .......................... 47 Delaware House Democrats ............................................... 19 Delaware House Republican Caucus .................................. 15 DPC ............................. 2, 39, 60 ESI ....................................... 49 FireFlow .............................. 21 Firehouse Expo ................... 57
Gennaro ............................... 27 Liberty Artwork .................... 37 Loughlin Ladder .................. 47 Magnum Electronics ............. 7 NJEV .................................... 42 PNC Bank ............................ 11 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 33 Roll N Rack .......................... 41 Rush Uniforms .................... 13 Senator Coons ...................... 16 Spartan ................................... 9 Spicer Mullikin .................... 51 Syntex ................................... 49 The Fire Store ...................... 43 Ultra Bright Lightz .............. 42
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
HOSE CONNECTIONS
Welcome Aboard!
Hunter James Roupas The Delaware Fire Service News family has a new member! Publisher Frank C. Trotta and his wife Marie are happy to announce the arrival of their first grandchild - Hunter James Roupas, son of their daughter Christina and son-in-law Lee. Hunter was born on August 14, 2015 weighing in at seven pounds, 10 ounces, at Prentice Women's Hospital in Chicago. "We are so excited and happy for Chrissy and Lee and baby Hunter! He is absolutely beautiful and perfect," said the proud grandpa. "We'll be spending a lot of time in Chicago," added grandma Marie. Congratulations to the new family from all at Delaware Fire Service News.
Marie, Frank III, and Frank Trotta, with mom Christina and Hunter James Roupas.
Dad Lee Roupas and his son Hunter James.
Christina and Hunter James.
A Pilgrimage with a Special Fireman to Visit Hallowed Ground by Steve Austin Like many things, I knew I should have done it long ago. But once I got there, I wondered what took me so long to make the trip. I fed myself plenty of excuses. It is a hassle to get there. I don’t have the time. It will cost money. All of the usual justifications we tell ourselves when we put off something that we know we should do. Then I got a call from a brother firefighter. He said, you don’t know me but I have a favor to ask. Long ago I made a resolution to never refuse a firefighters legitimate request if it is within my power to help. I said “sure, what do you need?” Paraphrasing, the conversation went something like this. My dad lives near Dover. He is 95. He’s in good shape; my mom passed a couple of years ago so my dad lives by himself. He retired from the job as a Captain in the 1970s. He was decorated in 1955 for rescuing a number of city public workers from a manhole. Three of them died but he got many more out alive. He was one hell of a fireman. I got on the job too but I wasn’t there long until me and five other members of my company were on a run where the roof collapsed. We all fell into the building. My leg was shattered. They put me on light duty but I was too injured to ever get cleared again as a fireman so they retired me after seven years on light duty. I came back after 911 and worked on the pile and then in the morgue. I’m still dealing with that, but that’s not why I called. You see, he said, my dad wants to see the 911 Museum. I was wondering, do you think that there is a fire company in Delaware that has a trip organized to come to the city and if so could my dad come along? He’s no bother. In fact he’ll entertain the guys. He’s got lots of stories. He spent most of his time in Brooklyn, but that’s only part of his life. He was an aviator in World War II and flew all over the world. Lots of flights were in the South Pacific. Yeah. He’s got stories. My response was immediate. No, I know of no scheduled trips. But that doesn’t really matter, I quickly added, because we will bring your dad to the memorial and provide him with the proper escort that a member of the
Greatest Generation and a Brother Firefighter of 95 is entitled to receive. The son, retired firefighter Rich Schofield, was taken aback. No, you guys don’t have to do all that. I was just checking to see if there was a trip scheduled. Conversation ended, I said. We will bring your Dad and return him home safely. Rich said he’d meet us, adding, I want to see dad but I’m not ready to go in the museum yet. There are too many memories. Maybe someday. I have some vision problems and can’t drive much, but I’ll take the train in and we will meet for lunch near 10 House across from the Museum. The day came to make the trip. Thanks to Chief Schall at Aetna we were able to use the fire department van. Traveling were pastChiefs’ Ken Farrall and John Rudd, our driver Jerry Daniels, his son Geoff, myself and Captain George Schofield (FDNY ret.) George didn’t disappoint. He told story after story. How he got on the department at number 11 out of 27,000 applicants. And about the time a pressure vessel in a building exploded killing 60 workers. And when two planes crashed over the city, wreaking havoc. Or when he went handover-hand on a ladder dangling 170 feet in the air above Madison Square Garden at a fire department thrill show. The same show where he saw two rookies fall to the ground in a rope demonstration gone wrong. He was fascinating. The Captain explained the sewer rescue. There were only two SCBAs in the company. He donned one and asked his men for a volunteer to take the other. The fireman who stepped up and Schofield descended into the manhole and affected the rescue, and continued on page 55
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office
Honoring our People: Thursday, September 17, 2015, at 0830 is the Annual DVFA/LADVFA Opening Ceremonies for the Conference. This is the event is where we honor our people. From our 50-year members, to our Hall of Fame, to our members of the year. These are the members of your fire companies who have meant so much and done so much for your company. In many cases they have been the lifeline of our fire service and have served in many leaderships capacities in your own companies. They have been our mentors, our champions and our friends. They have walked in the paths that many of you are now walking. Please join us in honoring them. I know they would appreciate it. Firemen of the Year: Also at the opening ceremony is the announcement of the firemen of the year. This is a person submitted by you to the com-
mittee, which makes this selection. This year there were only a few submittals. Maybe next year more of you will take the time to submit a member of your company. Surely you have someone who if worthy of this distinction. Year in Review: The last part of the opening ceremony is the video production entitled 2015 the Year in Review. The video is composed of pictures from the issues of the Delaware Fire Service News and other submittals. It is truly a reflection of the action shots from the fire and rescue incidents thoughout the state since the last conference. It also shows the people-side of our fire service with many pictures of those who make our fire service possible. So, come on out, honor our people and enjoy the show! Conference: This year we used a new system
Thanks for a Great Year
session in the early morning hours. I wish to thank everyone who stayed very late in legislative hall and all of you worked to have this legislation pass. The biggest legislative issue was the state budget and the possible cut to our Grant in Aid. Early in the session we knew there would be major funding shortages. We were assured that our Grant in Aid would not be affected. That assurance soon fizzled, and we were looking at a five-percent cut in Grant in Aid. We met with the Governor, we rallied the fire service and, in the wee hours on the morning of July 1, the five percent was restored. Again, I wish to thank everyone who was involved. I would like to thank the Recruitment and Retention Committee, which worked very hard on the Recruitment and Retention programs to bring new people into our companies. Committee members, and others, volunteered their time for 10 days at the Delaware State Fair, with Delaware Fire Service sponsoring a rodeo on opening night. Other campaigns the committee was involved in were social media, billboards, radio, print and television. Recruitment is one of our most important objectives. I want to thank all of you who have served on a DVFA committee this past year. Your willingness to serve makes a difference in our success. Congratulations to LADVFA President, Karen Majewski, and her officers for a successful year. I want to congratulate Delaware State Fire Chief’s Association President Steven ‘Redman’ Maichle, State Fire Police President Charlie Morgan and
by Anthony R. Guzzo, President, DVFA
To all firefighters, EMTs, ladies auxiliary, fire police and members of all the fire companies, it has been my honor to serve as President of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. As I conclude my term at the end of conference, I have to tell you how rewarding this job has been. From the changes in the DVFA Office, to the debacle with the insurance issue, to the legislative items, it was a really busy year. It was, also, a year of tributes and losses. We lost three Delaware Fire Service icons; DVFA past-Presidents, John Bare of Frankford and Joe Hojnicki of Minquadale, and LADVFA pastPresident, Peg Scarpitti. In addition we could never forget the passing of Biff Lee, a member of Laurel and a true fire service friend. Mentioning those who passed on wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the loss of one of Delaware’s sons, Beau Biden. All will be truly missed. The legislative items passed this year were the residential sprinkler legislation (HB133) and the exemption from the public health code requiring a certified food services manager (SB89). Both of these passed on the very last day of the legislative
for our conference forms. The system allowed you to bring the form up on your computer and enter your information directly into it. Many of you used the new system, but many of you did not. To those of you who used it, thank you. To those who were confused and needed help, please let us know your thoughts. If there is anything the DVFA Office can do for you while attending this year's conference, please stop by our office in the Delaware Room just off to the left as you enter the Rollins Center ballrooms. Thank you and enjoy the Conference! Warren Jones, Executive Manager wjones@dvfassn.com 302-535-4566
DVFA President Emergency Medical Services Association President Mark Demarco, and well as all of their officers on a successful year. Thank you to the members of the Conference Committee and sub-committees who have spent many hours preparing for the conference. We have a good attendance for this year’s conference and plenty of exhibitors for everyone to visit. This is a tribute to the hard work done by the conference committees. We made many changes this year, in our office and how the DVFA runs its business. We have a new computer server allowing us to conduct our business from anywhere. We upgraded our forms systems allowing you to go directly to the computer to enter your information. We added the capability to use credit cards to pay for registration and other fees. There are still many challenges ahead for this association and it will take all of us supporting the association officers. I thank all the officers of the DVFA for their outstanding support this past year. Great job! I wish incoming President Joseph Zeroles and his officers the best for the next year. I wish to thank the members and officers of the Hockessin Fire Company for supporting me during my travel through the chairs of this association. Lastly, I wanted to thank all of you for your hospitality, your friendship and your kindness. You welcomed my wife Jackie and I to your events with open arms. You truly made us feel like we belonged. Thank you and have a great conference!
LADVFA Corner by Karen Majewski, President LADVFA
Greetings from Old New Castle. I cannot believe that summer is over and it is time for another conference. It has truly been an amazing year and I have made so many new friends up and down the state. This year I have travelled a total of 8,013 miles. I would like to thank all of the auxiliaries and fire companies that have extended invitations to me and my guests. It has been an honor to join you in your celebrations and it has been my pleasure to serve as your President. I hope that everyone had a wonderful time at the
conference. I would like to thank Conference Chairs George Lamborn and Pam Ingle for all of their hard work. Without your hard work and dedication the conference would have not been so successful. I would like to congratulate President Guzzo and his officers on a job well done. It has been a pleasure and honor working with all of you this year. A big congratulation goes out to all of the ladies auxiliaries that have donated money to their fire companies. As a state, we have collectively donated $709,729.94 to our respective fire companies. A lot of hard work and valuable time goes into making that money and it was an honor to read the total on the DVFA floor. The Officers for the 2015-2016 are: President - Mary Frances Eisenbrey; 1st Vice President - Lois Pearson; 2nd Vice President - Lynn
Warner; Secretary - To Be Elected; Assistant Secretary - TBE; Treasurer - Regina HeadleyMarvel; and Assistant Treasurer - Kim Figgs. To Mary Frances Eisenbrey, I wish you the best of luck this year as you serve as our State President. The year will fly by, so make sure you take in all of the great moments and treasure the friendships that you will make along the way. I know you will do a fantastic job. I would like to thank my family as well as the Good Will Ladies Auxiliary and Fire Company for all of their support and understanding this year. It has been an honor representing New Castle County these last three years and I hope that I have made you proud. In closing, I would like to keep stressing the importance of yearly mammograms and ... dare to be aware.
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
2015 Conference Agenda
21st Annual Conference, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino September 14 -19, 2015 Saturday, September 12, 2015 0900-1700 NAEMT Safety Course (EMS) Sunday, September 13, 2015 0900-1700 Violent Encounters (EMS) Monday, September 14, 2015 0700-0800 EMS Registration 0700-0800 Continental Breakfast 0800-1600 EMS CEU Classes 0800-1700 EMS Exhibits (Inside and Outside) 1800-1930 When EMS Goes Viral Tuesday, September 15, 2015 0700-0800 EMS Registration 0700-0800 Continental Breakfast 0800-1600 EMS CEU Classes 0800-1300 EMS Exhibits (Inside and Outside) 0900-1100 Pension Workshop 0900-1100 CISM Seminar 1300-1500 Station Pride Seminar 1300-1500 Office of the Auditor Seminar 1730-1830 Past Presidents Reception (Invitation Only) 1800-1930 DE Homeland Security - DELNET Broadband 1830-2130 Past Presidents Banquet (Invitation Only) 1830-2030 Managing and Leading in Todays Fire Service Wednesday, September 16, 2015 0700-0800 EMS Registration 0700-0800 Continental Breakfast 0730-1800 Exhibits (Inside and Outside) 0800-1500 EMS CEU Classes 0900-1100 Legal Issues in the Fire Service Seminar 0900-1500 DVFA Golf Tournament 1300-1500 DVFA Round Table Discussion Seminar 0900-1400 LADVFA Golf Tournament 1300-1600 Ladies Tea Party (Invitation Only) 1700-1800 Fire Police Past Pres. Reception (Invitation Only) 1730-1830 EMS Association Reception 1800-1900 Fire Police Association Reception 1830-2200 EMS Association Dinner Meeting 1900-2200 Fire Police Association Dinner Meeting 1900 2200 Meet Your Host Thursday, September 17, 2015 0700-0830 Continental Breakfast 0700-0830 DVFA Registration 0700-0830 LADVFA Registration 0730 1800 Exhibits (Inside and Outside) 0800-1700 H.O.T.S. (Man vs Machinery) 0830-1030 Joint Opening Ceremonies 1130-1430 DVFA Conference Meeting 1200-1500 LADVFA Luncheon 1530-1630 DVFA/LADVFA Mutual Relief Meeting 1700-1800 Fire Chiefs Past Pres. Reception (Invitation Only) 1730-1830 Fire Chiefs Reception 1830-2200 Fire Chiefs Association Dinner Meeting 1830-2200 LADVFA Hospitality Night Friday, September 18, 2015 0700-0830 Continental Breakfast 0700-0830 DVFA Registration 0700-0830 LADVFA Registration 0730-1700 Exhibits (Inside and Outside) 0800-1700 H.O.T.S (Man vs Machinery) 0830-1030 Joint Memorial Service 1045-1145 Past Presidents & VIP Reception (Invitation Only) 1130-1430 LADVFA Meeting 1200-1500 DVFA Educational Luncheon 1700-1800 Joint Installation Ceremonies 1800-2030 Immediate Past Presidents Reception Saturday, September 19, 2015 0800-0900 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (New Castle County) 0900 1000 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Kent County) 1000-1100 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Sussex County) 0800-1000 Pre-Judging of Apparatus (Out of State) 1300 DVFA/LADVFA Conference Parade
Delaware State Fire School Delaware State Fire School Show Bar Pre-Function area Ballroom B/C Ballroom B/C Pre-Function/Rollins Lot Delaware State Fire School Show Bar Pre-Function area Ballroom B/C Ballroom B/C Pre-Function/Rollins Lot Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Ballroom A Delaware State Fire School Ballroom A Chesapeake Room Show Bar Pre-Function area Ballroom B/C Pre-Function/Rollins Lot Ballroom B/C Chesapeake Room Dover Air Base Course Chesapeake Room Dover Par 3 Diamond Room 1 Kent Room/Mezzanine Ballroom C Ballroom A/B Ballroom C Ballroom A/B Fire & Ice Lounge Pre-Function area Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Pre-Function/Rollins Lot Delaware State Fire School Ballroom B/C Ballroom C Ballroom A/B Ballroom C Cheswold Fire Hall Cheswold Fire Hall Cheswold Fire Hall Ballroom A/B Pre-Function area Chesapeake Room Silver Lake Room Pre-Function/Rollins Lot Delaware State Fire School Ballroom B/C Lobby Bar Ballroom C Ballroom A/B Ballroom C Ballroom A TBA TBA TBA TBA Downtown Dover
DVFA Office will be set-up in the Delaware Room all week
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Good Containment in Wilmington
On August 5, 2015, Wilmington City firefighters on the D-Platoon transmitted a report of a working fire on the 1900 block of W. 4th Street. Upon arrival of the first-due engine and ladder, they reported heavy smoke showing from the rear of the property. The property is used for automotive repair and towing, storing cars in the rear. Firefighters began an aggressive attack on six cars found to be fully involved and impinging on an adjacent property that was also an automotive repair facility on North Lincoln Street. The fire also damaged an outside shed and numerous tires stored on the proper-
ty. Wilmington City firefighters made quick work of the fire containing it to the original vehicles and a minor section of the adjacent business. The Incident Commander was Battalion Michael Harris. The following personnel responded: Squad-1, Engine 6, Engine-5, SB-2, Tower 2, Ladder 1, F-1, D-2, Battalion-1, Battalion-2, Battalion 9, Battalion 10, F-17, Wilmington Fire Marshal's Office, PA Unit-100, Pa-200 New Castle County Medics, Wilmington Licenses & Inspections and Wilmington Police. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
Apartment Complex Blaze
On August 14, 2015, the Dover Fire Department was alerted for a working fire at the DSU University Courtyard Apartments. E6 was first on scene under the direction of Assistant Chief David Carey to find a three-story apartment complex with an active fire in the stairwell between the second and third floors. E6’s crew established a water supply and stretched 300 feet of 1-3/4 inch attack line to the third floor. The crew made a quick knock down of the fire. E4 arrived on scene, laddered the building and checked for extension
into the adjacent apartments. L1 arrived on scene and placed the aerial in service to check for extension on the exterior of the stairwell. One firefighter was slightly injured and sent to the local trauma center. A special thanks go out to the excellent care provided by Kent County Paramedics Sgt. Rick Schlauch and Lt. Michael Bishop. The scene was placed under control and turned over to the City of Dover FMO for investigation. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Vacationers Temporarily Displaced On August 18, 2015, the Bethany Beach Fire Company received a call for a CO Alarm sounding at a rental home in the unit block of South 1st Street in South Bethany Beach. The nine-bedroom home was evacuated for precautionary reasons. A CO meter detected low-levels, and subsequent to employing positive pressure to remove the CO, the levels decreased, thus permitting the tenants to return to their beach home. - Submitted by Tony Petralia
Dog Dies in House Fire Lewes, Indian River and Rehoboth Beach firefighters responded to a house fire on Harts Road on July 2, 2015. Upon arrival, crews found smoke coming from an occupied residence. All occupants got out safely except a dog that was overcome by smoke and succumbed as firefighters and EMS personnel attempted resuscitation efforts. Moderate damage was done to the home as fire crews were on the scene for about 90 minutes bringing the incident under control. The Delaware State Fire Marshal investigated. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
House Fire Draws a Crowd
Early on July 19, 2015, stations 1 and 27 (Volunteer Hose), 4 and 24 (Odessa), 26 (Townsend), 29 (Port Penn), A-15 (Delaware City), 44 (Smyrna), 45 (Clayton) and NCC Medic 5, were alerted to a residential structure fire in The Estates of St Anne’s in Middletown. First units arrived to find heavy fire showing from the rear of a residence. The initial assessment was made and it was determined that the house was vacant, and an exterior attack ensued. The units worked for several hours to get the fire under control and keep exposures protected. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photos by Mike Carroll
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
Fully Involved in Bear
On May 31, 2015, the Volunteer Hose Company (1 and 27), Aetna (7, 8, 9 and 10), Christiana (3, 6 and 12), Delaware City (15), Cecil County MD Chesapeake City (2 and 12), NCC Paramedic, and NCCPD were alerted to a residential fire in Lexington Farms in the town of Bear. First units arrived to find a single-family dwelling fully involved. The occupants of the home were out and safe. The situation deemed that an exterior attack be made. Mutual aid for
Delaware City Refinery Fire On August 21, 2015, Box 3400 was sounded for a fire at the Delaware City Refinery (PBF Energy). Christiana Engine 12 was clearing a fire alarm and responded. L12 also responded. Engine 12 arrived and assisted Delaware City Fire Department with master stream operations. Ladder 12 stood by. Units operated for three hours. - Submitted by Dave Horack
Quick Work in Newark On August 30, 2015, Box 1236 was sounded for a house on fire in the Birchwood Park section of Newark. Christiana Engine 12 arrived to find a single-story home with fire showing. A handline was quickly deployed and the fire was extinguished. Ladder Company 9 searched the home with negative findings. - Submitted by Dave Horack
assistance and coverage came from Kent County Citizen Hose (44), Clayton (45), Cecil County, Singerly (313 and 314), FM 18, and the American Red Cross. After several hours the situation was placed under control and the units returned to their respective stations. Volunteer Hose would like to thank all the neighboring companies and departments for their assistance on this scene. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Selbyville Restaurant Destroyed
On the morning of July 27, 2015, the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company, along with Frankford, Roxana and Bishopville departments were alerted for a building fire on S. DuPont Highway at Pomeroy’s Restaurant and Bar. Deputy Chief Francis Szcuba responded as 88 Command. While en route, Command was notified that Selbyville Police were on scene and fire and smoke were evident from the dining hall area. Engine 88-1 was the first arriving unit and stretched a five-inch line to the front of the building. Tower 88 with Assistant Chief Tyler Timmons arrived and set up on the A side. Frankford's E/T 76-2 arrived with Chief Tommy Bacon who
was made Operations Officer. Frankford Assistant Chief Hunter Holland assisted with Operations. Crews from Bishopville moved to the C-D corner and set up an attack using a five-inch line stretched from the Selbyville Industrial Park. Additional units were requested from Millville, Millsboro, Dagsboro, Gumboro, Bethany Beach and Showell. Companies providing cover-ups included, Willards (MD), Rehoboth Beach, Laurel and Georgetown. Representatives of the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office worked throughout the day to determine a cause to the fire. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, photos by Barbara Walls
Aetna Assists in Pepper Ridge
On July 19, 2015, Aetna Engine 95 responded as an engine assist to the Mill Creek Fire Company on a two-alarm residential fire in Pepper Ridge. Crews were assigned search and rescue, followed by suppression on the Charlie side. Crews operated for approximately 2 1/2 hours. - DFSN photos by Dave Wilson
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
Greenwood Handles Apt. House Blaze
On July 23, 2015, Greenwood Stations 78, 72, 47 and Medic 107 were alerted to a building fire at Sea Chase Apartments. - Submitted by Deputy Chief Mark Anderson
October 2015
Chapman Road Save
On August 30, 2015, Box 1236 was sounded for a kitchen fire in the Sandlewood Apartments off Chapman Road. Several units were clearing a working fire and responded to the scene. Engine 12 arrived to find smoke showing from a three-story multiple dwelling. Units put a handline to work on the second-floor fire. Three occupants were removed from the third floor balcony due to smoke in the hallways. - Submitted by Dave Horack
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
Claymont Station Assists
Millville 2-Car MVC
Recently, Claymont Station was alerted to assist Station 25 on a dwelling fire on the unit block of Weldin Park Drive. E255 arrived, reporting fire showing, as E135 started a supply line. The crew from E135 deployed two handlines to the front door and crews went interior extinguishing fire on the second floor and assisting with extinguishment on the first floor. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
On August 7, 2015, the Millville and Roxana Volunteer Fire Companies, Sussex County Paramedics, Delaware State Police medical helicopter Trooper 2, DNREC, and Hazmat 83 were dispatched to a two-vehicle MVC involving a tractor-trailer and a compact SUV at the intersection of Roxana and Powell Farm Roads. Millville responded with Ambulances A and B-84, 84 Command, and Engines 84-1 and 84-4. Roxana responded with Rescue 90. The SUV was upside down with the lone occupant trapped. Responders stabilized the vehicle and then extricated the occupant. He was transported to Beebe Medical Center in B-84 with non-life threatening injuries. The operator of the tractor-trailer did not sustain any injuries. A small fuel spill was treated with absorbent materials. Deputy Cody Lockwood declared the scene under control and turned it over to the Delaware State Police for investigation. - Submitted by Bob Powell
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Rollover on Rte. 300
Recently, Clayton units and Medic 64 responded to an MVC with a rollover on Route 300. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Rollover MVC in Felton On August 8, 2015, the Felton Community Fire Company (Station 48) Harrington Fire Company EMS (Station 50), Kent County Paramedics and DSP Aviation were dispatched for a MVC with rollover on Hopkins Cemetery Road northwest of Felton. Upon arrival, Command 48 (Fire Chief Andy Ney) found a single vehicle resting on its wheels with the occupants, three adults and a child, removed. Arriving personnel were directed to perform patient care and it was determined that aviation was no longer required. The injured were transported to Bayhealth Hospital in Dover. - Submitted by Eugene Tucker
SUV-Bus MVC Wilmington Fire Department Responded to 11th Avenue and N. Walnut Street for an MVC with an SUV versus a DART transit bus. Seven peoples were injured and the driver of SUV had to be extricated. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
Cedar Creek Road MVC Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company responded to an MVC on Cedar Creek Road on June 21, 2015. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 19
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Christiana Responds to MVC
On August 28, 2015, Christiana units Ambulances 12 and 6, Engines 6 and 12, Medic 6B, ALS shift commander Ptl 3 (ALS 18) and Deputy Chief 12 were alerted to a overturned car on Route 1 near the Red Lion Road exit. Units arrived to find one person trapped in a car and three injured. All were transported to Christiana trauma center. Units operated for 30 minutes. - Submitted by Dave Horack
1 Injured in 2-Car MVC
On July 29, 2015, Citizens Hose Company 64, Kent County Medics, and T-4 responded to a two-vehicle MVC with one person trapped. The person was extricated and flown to CER with serious injuries. - Submitted by CHC, photos by Jerry Hull and Gene Shaner
Aetna Handles MVC Aetna firefighters responded to an MVC with entrapment that occurred in front of Fire Station 9. Crews made quick work freeing the trapped person, who was then transported to the hospital. Newark Police are investigating the incident. Chief 98 had the command. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 21
3 Trapped in MVC
On July 11, 2015, Volunteer Hose was alerted to an MVC with multiple people trapped. Kent County Stations 44 (Smyrna) and 45 (Clayton) were cover-up engines for Volunteer Hose, and responded to the scene along with Rescue 27, Engine 1-6 and B-27. First units arrived to find two vehicles with heavy impact and two people trapped. The crews made quick work of the vehicles and freed the people. NCCALS and Trooper 4 Medics were also on scene to administer patient care. One person was transported by Trooper 4 and two by ground BLS. The road was closed for several hours while DSP investigated. The units cleared and returned to Station 27 and Station 1. The Volunteer Hose would like to thank Kent County Stations 44 and Station 45 for their assistance with the incident. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photos by CHC and Amy Murray
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
TRAINING
Aetna Training Aetna truck company training at the Dickinson Dorms at the University of Delaware on August 5, 2015. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Wilmington Fire Dept. Vehicle Rescue Training D Platoon - Submitted by BC James Jobes
Probationary and Junior Firefighter Training On August 24, 2015, the Bethany Beach Fire Company conducted training for junior and new members. These training evolutions were under the supervision of Assistant Chief Todd Hickman and Lt. Bill Bowden, Jr. Training entailed the use of SCBA, ladder evolutions, forcible entry, handling a charged water line with precise aim to hit an object, and finally crawling through a ladder with full gear to simulate standard wall openings. The following members participated in the training: Junior Firefighters Jeff, Joel, Logan, Trevor, Bailee and Probationary Firefighter Dan. Traffic control was under the direct supervision of Captain Bill Bowden, Fire-Police. - Submitted by Tony Petralia
Advanced PWC Rescue Training On 22 August 22 and 23, 2015, the Bethany Beach Fire Company participated in a multifaceted course encompassing personal watercraft (PWC) rescues. This unique training is extremely advantageous to the Marine Unit members considering the volume of beach and boating tourism that floods Bethany Beach during certain periods of the year. The training was conducted by Tony Hargett and Ben Selleck, of Aqua 7 Rescue of Roseville, California. Shorts Marine was kind enough to provide a sophisticated Rescue PWC to supplement those currently in Bethany Beach's inventory. Once the four-hour block of classroom instruction was concluded, the students advanced to the waters of Indian River Bay. Once all the watercraft were launched from the Indian River Marina, the exercise was conducted off Burtons Island. Along with certain rescue techniques, the students were taught how to singlehandedly attach a vessel to the PWC while still underway. Considering the
noticeable difference in the sizes of these two vessels, currents and waves, this is a complex exercise, but the men and women of the fire service successfully accomplished the chores. On the following day, members completed their final training at the Indian River Inlet. This particular training was specific to rescues in and near jetties. As Chief Martin stated, “It was a great success.� Special thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard Station Indian River, for providing a safety zone within the inlet during the exercise. The training class consisted of the following members: Chief Brian Martin, Assistant Chief Tom Moore, Captain Justin Cassell, Andy Johnson-Career Firefighter, Assistant Fire Chief Tyler Hickman, Lieutenant Garrett Piel, Patricia Scott-EMS, Billy Ireland-Career Firefighter, Brice Hickman-Career Firefighter, and EMS Chief Phil Brackin. - Submitted by Tony Petralia
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 23
Page 24, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Salisbury Christian Camp Visits DSFS On August 7, 2015, the Delaware State Fire School hosted a field trip for the Salisbury Christian School. Approximately 60 students were in attendance and attended sessions that included Home Hazards, Fire Behavior, and Stop, Drop and Roll. The Sussex County Paramedics hosted a session regarding quick CPR. The Georgetown Fire Company was on hand with an engine and explained the use of the equipment used at a fire scene. The highlight of the day was a visit from the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Detection Dog Tonya, and her partner, John Galaska. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Promotes Fire Safety at the State Fair During the days of the Delaware State Fair, the Fire School, again, had a booth promoting Fire Safety. Information was featured regarding the year’s National Fire Prevention Week theme of “Hear the Beep Where you Sleep.” The Fire School also participated in the nightly parade on three evenings with Firefighter Ed U Cator, and Sparky interacting with the Children. On Wednesday evening, student athletes from the University of Delaware participated in the parade and joined in the fun. Pictured: Promoting “Hear the Beep Where you Sleep” are Laura Setz of the U of D Dance Team, Eric Enderson of U of D Football, Firefighter Ed U Cator and Sparky. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Provides Fire Safety Education at Sea Colony’s Summer Camps For several years the Delaware State Fire School has participated in providing Fire Safety Education to the children attending Sea Colony’s Summer Camp program. Located in Bethany Beach, the camp provides positive activities for the children during the day. Throughout the summer the Fire School will conduct five programs that feature information on Safe to Touch, Emergency Calling and Home Fire Escape. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 25
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSU RAs Complete Fire Safety Training A group of 70 Resident Assistants from Delaware State University completed Campus Fire Safety Training on August 13, 2015, at the Delaware State Fire School. The students were presented a classroom lecture on Campus Fire Safety Considerations. Interactive portions included Fire Extinguisher Training, Kitchen Fire Safety, Infectious Control, Escape Planning and Sprinkler Awareness. Brandy Garlic, the Associate Director of Resident Education, stated the program is a big success and they hope to continue working with the Delaware State Fire School in the future. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Purchases New Fire Apparatus Through the Federal Grant Process the Delaware State Fire School was given an opportunity to purchase a piece of fire apparatus to support its training programs. Fire School Director Robert Newnam, assigned Training Administrators Tucker Dempsey, Mike Lowe and Jack Wilson as the committee researching information and designing the project. The unit purchased was a Pierce/Sabre with a 1500-gpm pump and a 500-gallon booster tank. Equipment such as hose, fans and handtools were included in the specification. With the background work completed through the State of Delaware Office of Management and Budget, on August 26, 2015, the final contract was signed with Atlantic Emergency Solutions. Brian Bashista represented Atlantic during the project. The school looks forward to placing the new unit in service in the spring of 2016 supplementing its Pump Operator, Emergency Vehicle Operator, Engine Company, and Public Education Programs. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
UD Fire Safety Training for Resident Assistants On August 25, 2015, the University of Delaware, under the Direction of Kevin McSweeney, Fire Marshal with the Environmental Health and Safety Division, held its annual training for the incoming resident assistants. McSweeny has organized a coalition of agencies to assist with the training that includes the Newark Police Department, Campus Police, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Delaware State Fire School, as well at the Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder Company of Newark. Students must escape from the interior stairs of a fourth-floor residence hall that is charged with smoke. They also receive Fire Extinguisher Training. The Newark and Campus Police do a session on Dorm Room Security and the State Fire School conducts sessions on Kitchen Fire Safety. A new evolution was added this year in which students entered a staged dorm room in pairs and had to make note of as many hazards as they could find within 15 seconds. Over 200 students were put through the program. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27
NCC*EMS
Worker Injured in Ardencroft Collapse
New Castle County Paramedics, EMS personnel from the Claymont Fire Company and a Delaware State Police Trooper Paramedic move an injured construction worker to the helicopter for transport. EMS personnel were dispatched to Ardencroft, north of Wilmington, for a worker who was injured following the collapse of a brick wall during demolition. The man was transported to the Christiana Hospital in serious, but stable condition. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
County Paramedics Host Info Sessions for Paramedic Academy Class The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division, of the New Castle County Department of Public Safety, will be hosting information sessions for individuals interested in applying for a career as a paramedic. The sessions will be held at the Public Safety Headquarters facility, 3601 North DuPont Highway, New Castle. Dates of the sessions are as follows: Saturday, September 17 at 1000 and 1130, and Thursday, September 19 at 1730 and 1930. Pre-registration is not required to attend. New Castle County is currently accepting applications from individuals interested in entry-level opportunities as paramedics. Selected candidates will be employed by the New Castle County Government and enrolled in a paramedic training program. Selected students will be required to sign a five-year service obligation contract. “The information sessions are an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in becoming a paramedic to learn about the position and the applicant selection process,” said Chief Lawrence E. Tan of the New Castle County Paramedics. “Information session participants will be able to ask questions from both the EMS Division recruitment staff, County Office of Human Resources staff and current paramedics who have been through both the selection process and the paramedic training program.” Additional information regarding either the information sessions or employment opportunities as a paramedic with New Castle County may be had by contacting either Mr. John Troy of the County Office of Human Resources at 302-395-5161, or Lt. Christopher Johnson, EMS Division Recruitment Coordinator at 302-395-8188. Additional information is also available at the EMS division web site: www.nccde.org/ems, or the New Castle County Paramedics Facebook page. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
NCC*EMS
NCCo EMS Staff Promotions
The Emergency Medical Services Division of the New Castle County Department of Public Safety announced the promotion of an Assistant Chief and two Lieutenants. Captain Mark P. Allston was promoted to Assistant Chief, while Paramedic Sergeant Michael R. Nichols and Paramedic Sergeant Christopher A. Johnson were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. The promotions were recognized by County Executive Thomas P. Gordon, Chief Administrative Officer David A. Grimaldi, Director of Public Safety Joseph Bryant, Jr., and Chief Lawrence E. Tan at a Department of Public Safety promotional ceremony held on June 22, 2015 at the Public Safety Headquarters. Assistant Chief Mark P. Allston was appointed to the New Castle County Emergency Medical Service in 1991 as a paramedic candidate. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program, graduating in July 1992. He completed the field certification process in September that same year. Assistant Chief Allston has held assignments on both Medic 1 and Medic 8 in the City of Wilmington. He served as a Field Training Officer (FTO). He was promoted to Lieutenant in July 2003, and has held assignments as both a Shift Commander in the Operations Branch, and Recruitment and Applicant Processing Coordinator in the Administration/Special Operations Branch. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in January 2014 where he served as the Executive Officer in the Office of the EMS Chief. He was promoted to Assistant Chief in May 2015 and is currently assigned as Commander of the Administration/Special Operations Branch. Assistant Chief Allston has received several awards and official commendations, including the Ministry of Caring Sharing Bowl, the Jefferson Award for Public Service, the Wilmington Award for Public Service, the
Community Policing Award (two awards), a Commendation of Heroism and several Distinguished Unit Citations. He was also a recipient of the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington Paramedic of the Quarter award for the first quarter of 2014. Lieutenant Michael R. Nichols was appointed to the New Castle County Emergency Medical Service as an Emergency Medical Technician in 1995. He attended the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic Training Program and achieved certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 1996. Lieutenant Nichols was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Corporal in May 2004 following the implementation of the EMS Division career development plan. He was subsequently promoted to Paramedic Sergeant in July 2013, where he served as a field supervisor in the Operations Branch. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in May 2015, and is currently assigned as Commander of Platoon 3. Lieutenant Nichols is a Basic Cardiac Life Support instructor and has participated in the EMS Division community CPR program. He has also served as an Assistant Recruiter for the New Castle County Paramedics. He was selected as one of the first paramedics to be assigned to the New Castle County SWAT team with the implementation of the Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) program in 1999. He has served as the non-commissioned officer in charge of the TEMS program since 2006. Lieutenant Nichols has received several official commendations including a Distinguished Unit Citation (two awards) and a Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation in 2013. He was also designated as the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington Paramedic of the Quarter for the second quarter of 2014. Lieutenant Christopher A. Johnson was
appointed to the New Castle County Emergency Medical Service in 2002 as a Paramedic Candidate while attending the Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC) Paramedic Program. He graduated from DTCC and received the Paramedic Program Outstanding Graduate award for his cohort. He successfully completed the field certification process in November 2002. Lieutenant Johnson has held assignments in Field Operations on Medic 1 (Wilmington), Medic 4 (North Wilmington) Medic 2 (New Castle) and Medic 3 (Newark). He also served as a Field Training Officer (FTO) during his assignments in the Operations Branch. He was promoted to Paramedic Sergeant in July 2013 where he was assigned as a field supervisor on Platoon 3. He was promoted to his current rank in May 2015 and currently assigned as the Recruitment, Applicant Processing and Field Training Coordinator in the Administration/ Special Operations Branch. Lieutenant Johnson has received several official awards and commendations, including a Distinguished Unit Citation, a Life Saving Award and Prehospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Save Citation (8 awards). He was also recognized by the Kiwanis Club of Wilmington Paramedic of the Quarter for the third quarter of 2012. He was also a recent graduate of the West Point Command and Leadership Academy, where he was the first non-law enforcement graduate to receive the Chief Harry Wilde Academic Achievement Award for the cohort. “We offer our congratulations to all those being promoted within the Department of Public Safety, and offer our thanks for their commitment to providing the citizens of New Castle County the quality services they have come to expect and deserve,� said Chief Lawrence Tan. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 29
SCEMS
Sussex County EMS Welcomes New Employees
Sussex County Emergency Medical Services would like to welcome Cody Grosch, Cassandra Petralia and Andrew Weitzel to SCEMS. All employees began their employment with SCEMS on July 20, 2015 and are currently in the out of state certification process. Cody Grosch comes to SCEMS from Maryland where he obtained his paramedic education from Wor Wic Community College. Cody also offers his time as a volunteer fire-
fighter for several Maryland fire departments and recently received a Phoenix life-saving award. In his off time, Cody enjoys fishing, playing basketball and lacrosse. Cassandra Petralia, of Frankford, DE, studied para-medicine at Towson University. She is also a volunteer firefighter for Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Department. Cassandra enjoys spending her free time reading, paddleboarding and photography.
Andrew Weitzel holds a Bachelor's Degree of Science in Biology, which he obtained in 2008 at Pennsylvania State University. Andrew obtained his paramedic certificate in 2012 from Lancaster General College of Nursing and Health Sciences. He is a member of Boy Scouts of America and enjoys spending his free time outdoors camping and hiking. SCEMS welcomes them aboard and look forward to their future contributions. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall, SCEMS
Sussex County Emergency Medical Services Medic 105 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Sussex County Emergency Medical Services held a grand opening and open house for its newest facility, Medic 105, during a dedication ceremony at the station on July 28, 2015. Invited guests were treated to tours of the free-standing station, as well as lunch, at the County-owned facility. The 3,400-square-foot station is the third built for the EMS department countywide since 2009, and replaces
a former facility that was leased by county government. The new station is large enough to house three paramedic units for the Medic 105 area, which serves the southeastern coastal area of the county and sees its busiest period during the popular summer months. - Submitted by Eric Huovinen Sr., photos and story by Chip Guy
Page 32, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Inaugural Fire Fightin’ 5k Run
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company held their inaugural Fire Fightin’ 5k run on August 23, 2015, with 246 runners who came out to support the Capital Campaign Fund. The course had runners going from the Fire Station on Rehoboth Avenue through the Pines to the Boardwalk and back. Seashore Striders provided the logistics along with the main sponsors of Hooters of Rehoboth Beach and LuLu Brazil Restaurant who held a post race party and breakfast for the participants. - DFSN photos by Chuck Snyder
Ambulance Station 64 Member of the Month
Ambulance Station 64 Outstanding Volunteer
The David C. Harrison, Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service recognized Joseph Mistler as the outstanding Member of the Month for July 2015. Joe accumulated 21.44 points for the month through crew hours and 10 ambulance runs. Joe joined Station 64 in Smyrna in July 2014. He recently completed his EMT training and is actively field training with American Legion Ambulance, Station 64. Pictured is Captain Russ Stinson congratulating Joseph Mistler. - Submitted by Russell Stinson
The David C. Harrison, Post 14, American Legion Ambulance Service, Station 64, of Smyrna, recognized Danielle Gallagher as the Outstanding Volunteer Member for June 2015. Danielle accumulated 21.44 points through crew hours and 10 ambulance runs. Danielle joined Station 64 in July 2014. She attends Sacred Heart University where she is pursuing a career in the medical services field as a Physician’s Assistant. She recently completed her training in Connecticut. - Submitted by Russell Stinson
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 33
Leipsic Annual Blessing of the Fleet
Lewes Fire Department Awards Annual Scholarships
Auxiliary President Connie Luff and Chief Mike Greco placing flowers. The Leipsic Volunteer Fire Company hosted the annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony at the Leipsic River Dock. Rev. Rick Hudson of the Roby United Methodist Church, Leipsic broadcasted a prayer via marine radio to the many mariners working the bay. This tradition is performed in many fishing villages to pray that mariners are taken care of and come back with a plentiful harvest. A local band, which included Rev. Hudson, performed for guests and members at the fire company where a superb feast was prepared by the Leipsic VFC Auxiliary. - Submitted by Jim Woznicki
The Lewes Fire Department awarded their annual scholarships during its August business meeting. The T.A. Shipley Scholarship of $1000 is presented annually in memory of a deceased member with past-Life Member William H. Stevenson III being recognized this year. The scholarship was awarded to Mariko Daisey who will be attending UCLA to study Spanish and Political Science. The Jones Scholarship, donated annually by Bob and Pat Jones, is presented in memory of their son, past-Member Steven R. Jones. The $1000 scholarship was divided between Aislynn Stabner and Austin MacCoy, who also split the award last year. Both students continue to perform well in their area of studies. The Lewes Fire Department wishes the winners continued success in their studies and future endeavors. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
Commemorative Patches The patch for the DuPont Experimental Station Fire Station 358, home of the “Fightin’358.” MACK ATTACK was inspired by their Mack engine and a Mack rescue pumper.
The First State FOOLS patch, the 343 on the axe is to the honor the FDNY firefighters killed on 9-11-2001, the date 1787 commemorates when Delaware became the first state. The bird is the Delaware Blue Hen. - Submitted by Kevin Keating
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
Camp ‘Bruiser’
Brittney Ford was a beautiful, talented, goal oriented, young lady who became our shining star. Tragically she was taken from us far to soon in an automobile accident. She was on her way to becoming a female firefighter, EMT. She hungered for knowledge and loved the fire service. With every tragedy we look for the silver lining and so that was what Brittney’s family did. One way they honored Brittney’s memory was with the gift of life, donating Brittany’s organs so that others who were in need or suffering would get a chance to keep on living because of Brittney. The second is one that those in the fire service hope will remain for years to come and only grow stronger with their support. To carry on her love of firefighting the Brittney Ford Foundation started Camp Bruiser. This camp, named after Brittney’s nickname, was held this year at her station, Station 40, of the Bowers Fire
October 2015
Company. The camp was held in two sessions in August. Various surrounding companies, the Delaware State Fire School, and many individuals gave their support to this great event. There was CPR/AED instruction, Vehicle Rescue demonstrations, Apparatus Familiarization, as well as many other activities for kids ages 13 to 17, to spark their interest in the fire and EMS service and, by doing so, recruit them at a young age to love the brotherhood only found in the fire service. Who knows? There may be a future chief or medic that will attend the camp. If you know someone that is Bruiser Tough and would be interested please contact Laurie Mallow at 423-5928 or e-mail her at Lauriemallow@ gmail.com. - Submitted by Laurie Mallow and Phil Pennington
Mill Creek at Fourth of July Parade
Independence Day in Philadelphia kicked-off with a series of inspi- Miss America 2015. More than 6,000 participants began at rational events including the Philadelphia Celebration of Freedom Independence Hall and wound through Philadelphia’s most historic and the Independence Day Parade featuring thousands of partici- streets. - Submitted by Jim Woznicki, pants from around the country. The parade featured dozens of photos by Josephina Whiteman and Frank Whiteman. Jr. floats, marching bands, antique cars and a special appearance from
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
Volunteers Unite to Assist Delaware Firefighter
On August 22, 2015, many volunteers from within the Delaware volunteer fire service community and neighbors joined together to assist a long time Delaware fire service volunteer. This event culminated many days of effort and ended in the completion of a deck and ramp. Recently, a long-time Delaware fire service volunteer encountered a medical situation, which resulted in his right leg being amputated above the knee. This action created the need for many life-changing actions
including structural renovations to his accommodations. For many years, this volunteer served the Goodwill and Indian River fire companies, as well as being an elected official in many capacities representing the Delaware Fire Service. Firefighters from Goodwill (18), Brandywine Hundred (11), Memorial (89), and Indian River (80) participated. - Submitted by Patrick Miller
THANK YOU!!
On behalf of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company, please allow me the opportunity to issue this heartfelt appreciation and say thank you for the collaboration and assistance that you have provided us in bringing this LeVan Project to completion. To the Goodwill Fire Company (18), Memorial Fire Company (89), Brandywine Hundred Fire Company (11), Indian River Fire Company (80), the New Castle Volunteer Firefighters Association, the workers of Shawn’s Hide-a-way, the Ladies Auxiliary of Indian River, and the many private contributors - we are grateful for your compassion and generosity. Thank you for your contributions, efforts and assistance. As you can imagine, this effort was intended to assist another member of the Delaware Fire Service and to express our appreciation for his years of dedicated service helping others. These efforts take the ordinary people that we encounter on a daily basis and make them extraordinary in the lives of a few! Again, on behalf of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company - thank you! If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience. Patrick C. Miller, President Indian River Volunteer Fire Co., Inc.
October 2015
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
Antique Corner
By Bob Romig
Keystone Firefighter Conference On August 7 through 9, 2015, the first annual KFFC was held at the Greater Philadelphia Convention Center in Oaks, PA. With over 90 exhibitors for this inaugural first show, it offered training classes, a Celebrity Hockey Tournament and more. The Pride and Polish event featured 21 various antique apparatus - hand/horse drawn and motorized - on display inside the convention center, and two modern apparatus and three motorcycles on Saturday. The modern apparatus included a 1996 KME from Swedesburg (PA) and a 2002 Ford TCU from West End Fire Company of Stowe (PA). Motorcycles were shown by Ron Evans from Aston (PA); Keith Romig, Morgantown (PA) and Gene Johnson from Wilmington (DE). The winners in the antique categories were as follows: Oldest motorized apparatusDepartment owned: 1st- Good Will FC, New Castle, DE -1919 Ahrens Fox; 2nd - West Grove FC, PA - 1928 Hale; 3rd place - Swedesburg FC, PA - 1946 Ford Tanker; Oldest hand/horse drawn - Privately owned: Lilick Family, PA - 1860 Wirt/Knoxx Oldest hand/horse drawn - Department owned: Clifton Heights FC, PA - 1764 Newsham; Kennett FC, PA 1860 Cowling; Jefferson FC, PA 1909 Wirt/Knoxx Oldest motorized apparatus - Private: Steve
Austin, DE - 1953 Ford/ALF; Steve Austin, DE - 1954 ALF; Don Andes - PA - 1950 International Pumper Best Appearing motorized - Department owned - 1900-1930: Good Will FC, DE - 1919 Ahrens Fox; West Grove FC, PA - 1928 Hale Best Appearing motorized - Department owned: 1931-1959 - Swedesburg FC, PA - 1946
Ford; Wyndmoor FC, PA - 1958 Mack; Clifton Heights FC, PA - 1938 Ahrens Fox Best Appearing motorized - Department owned: 1960 - 1989 - Lake Harmony FC, PA 1988 Mack; Hockessin FC , DE - 1967 Autocar; Lafayette FC, PA - 1978 Mack Best Appearing Privately owned 1931-1959: Steve Austin, DE-1953 Ford/WLF; Steve Austin, DE - 1954 ALF; Don Andes, PA - 1950 International Best Appearing Privately owned - 1960-1989: Fran Cheney, PA - 1975 International/Pierce; Rob Miller, NJ
- 1976 Maxim; Dave Smiley, PA - 1968 ALF Best Appearing hand/horse drawn Private/Department owned: Lilick Family, PA 1860 Wirt/Knoxx Longest Distance transported - Department owned: - Good Will Fire Co, New Castle, DE Longest Distance transported - Private: Lilick Family, Albrightsville, PA Longest Distance driven Private: Steve Austin, Newark, DE Longest Distance driven Department: Lake Harmony, PA Best marked apparatus for highway safety sponsored by ResponderSafety.com - West End FC, PA Best of Show - Good Will Fire Co., New Castle, DE 1919 Ahrens Fox We gave away over $2000 in cash prizes plus trophy plaques which were sponsored by FireOne. Next year’s event is scheduled for July 15-17, 2016, with the apparatus judging taking place on July 16. Several new things are anticipated to be included, such as live demos by various manufacturers; a junior firefighter competition; a firematic flea market; and a cooking demo by Ray Cooney, retired FDNY firefighter who does the Firehouse Kitchen Show out of Long Island, NY. Please check our website www.keystonefirefighter.com for more updated info which should be available by the end of September.
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Burn Camp a Success
Burn Camp, held at Camp Barnes near Roxana, brings together Delaware kids that have been burned or involved in fire incidents for a week of fun, education and getting to know other kids and adults who have been exposed to fire. The weeklong event is sponsored by the Delaware Volunteers Fireman’s Association and
Delaware State Fire Marshals, with help from local fire companies. Bay Health provides the counselors and mentors. The Delaware State Police also helped out by providing Camp Barnes and a visit from Trooper 2. - DFSN photos by Chuck Snyder
Nat’l Night Out in Middletown August 4, 2015, was the National Night Out, and Volunteer Hose, along with other state and local agencies, participated at Redding Middle School in Middletown. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Wilmington’s Lamb Retires
Richard Lamb (left), retired after 35 years with the Wilmington Fire Department. Lamb was presented with a picture by retired Firefighter Bracey Dixon depicting when they worked together. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
Harrington Provides Event Coverage
The Harrington Fire Company provided fire and EMS coverage to the Delaware Junction Music Festival in August. The company also provided BLS support during the days leading up to, and following, the festival for buildup and tear down. This was the first time the company has been responsible for providing fire and EMS support to an event of this level. - Submitted by Chad Robinson
Volunteer Hose Welcomes Home One of Their Own
Sprinkler Option Bill
On July 11, 2015, Tower 27 participated in a welcome home ceremony for one of its own firefighters, Phil Smith, returning home from another tour in Iraq and Kuwait with the Co. F1- 126 GSAB National Guard. In the past, Phil held the positions of EMS Captain and EMS Lieutenant. Phil has been awarded the Top EMS Responder, and EMS Person of the Year awards, as well. The Volunteer Hose was proud to participate and support our troops. - Submitted by Tim Murray
Recently, HB133, legislation requiring home builders to offer residential sprinklers as an option, was signed into law by Delaware Governor Jack Markell at Aetna Station 8. This bill requires builders of new, one- or two-family residential dwellings that are three stories or less to provide to the purchasers a cost estimate from the builder for an automatic sprinkler system, as well as information from the State Fire Marshal’s Office about the benefits of such a system. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
Enjoying the Fourth!
Hooters Girls Help Fundraiser
Off-duty Wilmington Firefighter Griff Jordan of Ladder Company 1-C enjoys the Fourth of July activities with his family at a water display by Wilmington Fire Boat 7. - Submitted by James Jobes
Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company held a car wash on August 6, 2015, with the “World Famous Hooter’s Girls” at the Main Station on Rehoboth Avenue to raise money for the Capital Campaign. The girls washed over 50 cars to the delight of their owners and RBVFC would like to thank Attilla Wings, the parent company of Hooters of Rehoboth Beach for all of their support. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Hartly Gets New Engine
Dagsboro Scores FEMA Grant
The officers and members of the Hartly Volunteer Fire Company take great pride in announcing the arrival of Engine 51-2. Engine 51-2 is a 2015 Rosenbauer that sits on a Commander chassis with a 78-inch crew cab and an 18-inch raise. Engine 51-2 has a 1250gallon water tank with a 2,000-gpm Hale pump. The truck is also equipped with 50 gallons of Class A and 50 gallons of Class B foam. Engine 51-2 has seating for a driver, officer and five firefighters in the back. This unit carries an assortment of hand tools, power tools, ladders and hoses. Engine 51-2 will run first on all structure fires within our companies first- and next-due districts. - Submitted by James Read
On behalf of the fire chiefs and administration of the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Department and the Frankford, Gumboro and Selbyville Volunteer Fire Companies, I am very pleased to announce that our regional grant application to the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program has been approved for funding. We requested $695,000 to purchase new communications equipment and the grant was approved in its entirety. The program will provide 95 percent of the funding ($662,000) and the fire department/companies will be responsible for the remaining five percent ($33,000) grant match. This has been a two-year process to obtain these grant funds and I wish to personally thank everyone who was involved in preparing this grant for their cooperation, understanding, patience, support and most importantly your faith and trust in me as we compiled the data, crunched the numbers, and developed an award winning grant. This was a TEAM effort and I'm very proud to share this news. - Submitted by Patrick J. Quigley, Grant Coordinator, Frankford VFC
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
ANNOUNCEMENTS NFPA’S PUBLIC EDUCATION DIVISION ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF THREE NEW PUBLIC EDUCATION SPECIALISTS The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) public education division announced the addition of three public education specialists: Kelly Ransdell, Meredith Hawes and Jeffrey Donahue. In these new positions, Ransdell, Hawes and Donahue will be responsible for working in coordination with state and local fire departments to support their fire safety education efforts. Each will focus on specific US regions. Hawes (Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions) brings experience in non-profit administration, corporate training and public education on local, state and national levels. She is a member of the Aging and Disability Resource Collaborative of Northwest Michigan Steering Committee, coordinator of the Traverse Bay Area Hoarding Task Force and was also a fire and life safety public educator for the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department. Ransdell (New England and southern regions) previously worked as the deputy director of the North Carolina Department of Insurance - Office of State Fire Marshal for nearly 15 years, overseeing its prevention, programs and grants division. She also worked as the state director of Safe Kids North Carolina. Ransdell currently serves on many state and local committees related to injury prevention. Donahue (western region) is a fire service veteran with more than 34 years of experience, including his last assignment as division chief/fire marshal for the City of Reno (NV) Fire Department. He has worked closely with NFPA as a board member of the International Fire Marshals Association (IFMA), most recently serving as first vice president and chapter committee chair.
VHC GOLF OUTING On Friday, October 2, 2015, the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown will host their fourth annual golf outing at the Back Creek Golf Club. The cost is $100 per player and features a 0800 shotgun start, free range balls, raffles, 50/50, ball drop, and prizes for a hole-in-one, closest to the pin and longest drive. Dinner is included and will take place after golf. Sponsorships are available and donations are welcome. For more information, contact JoAnn Burge at 302-388-4879.
RICHARD MADDOX NEW CHAIRMAN OF FDSOA
The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) announced that Richard Maddox, RN, MPA HSO/ISO Certified, was elected as the new chairman of the board of directors. Maddox, a member of FDSOA since 1993, has served as Eastern Region director and twice as vice chairman over the past 12 years. In 1992, Maddox was appointed safety officer for the Sayville (NY) Fire Department. He was one of the first safety officers to participate in the original Incident Scene Safety Officer training program and certification exam. Maddox is a Registered Nurse, holds a Master’s in public health administration and is currently employed by the New York State Office of Mental Health as a clinical risk management specialist. In acknowledging the announcement, Maddox stated, “I am honored to have the membership’s confidence to serve as your next chairman. I would like to extend my congratulations to Chief Paul Nelson on his efforts during the campaign and look forward to working with him in the future. As I mentioned during the campaign, I have been a member of FDSOA for 23 years. During that time I have dedicated myself to working with other members across the country in advancing the mission of our association, which in turn benefits the overall objectives of firefighter safety and health. It is my goal to expand membership participation, increase membership, improve our educational programming, develop additional safety certifications and collaborate with fire/emergency services agencies to advocate for FDSOA’s mission and goals. “I look forward to working with as many of you as possible during the next three years. Each member brings a valuable strength to the organization, without which such an organization could not run without success. My hope is to have a successful term as chairman of this fine organization.” Current FDSOA Chairman Michael Petroff acknowledged that during his tenure on the board, particularly the past couple years, the FDSOA faced significant challenges including changes in leadership, staffing and office consolidation. “Rich Maddox will face the future well-equipped as he has been an active member of the FDSOA board of directors for over 12 years and vice-chair for two terms,” said Petroff. “In addition, with the excellent management capabilities of Executive Director Richard Marinucci, Administrative Assistant Linda Stone-Marinucci, a dedicated board of directors and a strong membership, Maddox will have great support.” “As chairman, I believe I led the board to make the right decisions and feel I have left the association in a good position to continue to improve,” Petroff added. “I thank the membership for allowing me to serve and I feel confident in the capabilities of Richard Maddox.” Petroff has appointed a nomination and elections committee as outlined in the by-laws to validate the election and will make the voting official. As the vice chair position is vacant, the board will fill the position at the next annual meeting to be held at the Safety Forum, in Fort Lauderdale, September 21-25, 2015.
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
Greenwood Night Out
Greenwood Night Out was held on August 11, 2015, at the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Company to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. The event was sponsored by the Greenwood Police Department Chief Anderson and staff. - Submitted by Jim Woznicki
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Pioneers of the Delaware Fire Service By Bob Romig This article is about Elmer Steele, another good friend of mine from Sussex County, whom most of you should know if you are active in the Delaware Fire Service. I don’t think Elmer needs any introduction; his service to Delaware and other fire service organizations in the tri-state area speaks for itself. Elmer was elected as the DVFA Secretary in 2013 and has done an outstanding job, along with his other responsibilities. How did Elmer get involved in the Delaware Fire Service? Well, once again, it begins with family. His dad and uncle were members of the Millville Fire Company, so, in 1962, he became a Junior with them and served for four years in that capacity. He then became a Senior member, serving for four more years with them. Some of the folks from Millville who were influential in getting his career off the ground and became mentors were Chief Ralph Banks and Roger Hitchens. In 1970 Elmer joined the Laurel Fire Department and has been a very active member since. He didn’t just join to ride the apparatus or hang out around the fire house; he became part of the firehouse. He has held the office of President twice for six years; and served as Vice President, Trustee and Secretary on the administrative side. He then thought maybe he would try the fire-side of the operation and has served as Assistant Rescue Captain; Chief Engineer and currently serves as Engineer, a position he has held for 40 years. That’s a lot of turning of nuts and bolts and replacing parts! Elmer decided that he was more interested in the administrative side and has served on many committees in his 45 years with the Laurel FD. For 25 years he has served as Chairman of the Bar Committee; served on the By-Laws committee (Chairman for five years); Chairman of the Uniform Committee for 15 years; DVFA Host Convention Committee; DVFA Delegate/Alternate; new apparatus/ambulance committees; and Delegate to the DelMarVa VFA since 1990. Most memorable of all committees that Elmer has served would be as a member of the Executive Committee or Chairman of the DVFA/LADVFA Conference. As we all know, when it comes to the DVFA/LADVFA Conference, Elmer was the go-to guy. He probably knew the Sheraton Hotel and set-ups for each event better than the Sheraton staff. You might wonder how Elmer became involved with the conference when he already had a slate full of duties and responsibilities with the Laurel FD. Well, I’m sure that most of the old timers will remember Norman Tate. It was Norman who talked Elmer into this job, which he has performed with pride and dignity since 2000, representing Sussex County VFA. He currently serves as conference adviser, advisor to the SFPC, and on the Partners in Progress committee, in addition to serving as Secretary of the DVFA. You might say that Elmer has been and is a very busy person, but in addition to all of his duties and assignments with the LFD and DVFA, Elmer still has time to help other organizations. Elmer is past-President of the SCFCA and currently serving on the By-laws Committee. He is past-President of the Sussex County VFA and currently Director and serves on the By-laws Committee; the Liaison to Kent and New Castle Counties VFA (I think Elmer is what you call a frequent flier on the Delaware roadways); past-President of the DSFCA and currently serving as Assistant Secretary; past-
President of the DelMarVA VFA and now serves as their Secretary. Not only is he probably one of the most active members from Sussex County for the fire service, but he is also a member of the Delaware Valley FCA, Cumberland Valley VFA, NVFC, National Fire Academy Alumni Association, and NFPA President’s Forum. With all of his fire service activities did Elmer have time for anything else? Oh, yes siree! Elmer graduated from Lord Baltimore High School in 1966 (third in his class) and went on to attend Sussex Vocational and Technical School. He also served in the US
Army from 1968-1970 with posts in Germany and Oklahoma. He was discharged as a Sergeant (E-5). He is has been a member of the Laurel American Legion Post 19 for the past 25 years. Upon his discharge from the Army, Elmer took a position with what was then known as the DuPont Co (now Invista) in Seaford, where he has worked for the past 34 years; in July 2015 he retired. Elmer received extensive training thru the DSFS in various fields with his first training taken at the old Woodside School before the DSFS was built, as well as fire brigade training with DuPont. Elmer also received training at the Wallops Island military installation, which is now a NASA facility. Throughout his 50-plus years of service he has received many awards and accolades for his involvement in the fire service and community. He was inducted into the DVFA Hall of Fame, the DelMarVA Hall of Fame twice, received the DuPont Safety Awareness award, Nanticoke Rotary Club Community Service award, Historical Foundation of DelMarVA Hall of Fame, Office of the Governor Recognition citation, Office of the Governor Tribute of Service Certificate, and Fireman of the Year in 2000. Quite a list of awards and recognitions for a very hard worker for his department and the fire service of Delaware. With all of those activities, Elmer still had
time to find a good woman who would put up with all of his adventures. And that’s when he married Sandy, 48 years ago. Together, they managed to raise three wonderful girls; Arlene, Denise and Karen, who have given them four grandchildren: Steven, Courtney, Ahslyn and Taygen. Elmer, I hope that since you have quit your 8-5 job with DuPont that you can spend some more quality time with your lovely wife and grandchildren. But that’s not the end of the story. You see, Sandy and their daughters have continued to be part of the fire service family that we talk about all the time in Delaware. Sandy is a 45-year member of the Laurel Ladies Auxiliary. She served as Treasurer for 10 years; and Pension Officer since 1986, and is currently serving on the Board of Governors for the Ladies Auxiliary. Daughter, Denise, is a 20-year member of the Ladies Auxiliary and now serves as their Treasurer, following in her mom’s footsteps, and also serves on several other committees. Daughter, Karen is a sevenyear member of the Auxiliary and has served as VP and on various committees. The Steele family are truly part of the fire service families of Delaware. Elmer and Sandy, how long before you sign the grandchildren up? I had the opportunity to sit down with Elmer at the most recent CVVFA convention banquet held in Delaware City in August and he mentioned that as he became more involved and started to branch out, there was a lot of support and help along the way from folks (some who have gone to the fire station up above and others currently involved in the fire service today) such as Granville White, Norman Tate, Joe Evans, Ron Marvel and Bill Tobin, to name a few. “These folks really pushed me to advance to the fullest,” said Elmer, “and at this point in my fire service career I feel that I have accomplished my goals. If I forgot anyone, please accept my apology.” I asked Elmer what was the most memorable fire he can remember, and he said the one which burnt down most of downtown Laurel. He drove one of the rigs to this fire and the smoke was so thick that they had to put a man in front of the apparatus to direct them in. He was on the hydrant at the library and pumped all night and into the next morning. Some of Elmer’s best non-fireground experiences were, “to help others, especially the kids.” His mantra has been, “You need to be upfront and sometimes you have to depend on self satisfaction.” Elmer would like to be remembered, “for the things that I do and for the fact that I have tried to do the best I can.” Elmer I think that we can certainly remember and appreciate all the things that you have done and will continue to do for the fire service of this fine state. As you can see Elmer has led a very active life both at home and in the fire service representing the Delaware Fire Service. It has been my pleasure to have known Elmer and worked with him on occasions during that past four decades. Oh, by the way, Elmer … in case you didn’t hear, there will be a couple of vacancies in the CVVFA as of 2016 and I have already drafted up a letter to recommend you for one or two of them. What with being retired now, you will have to find something to fill in the free time that you will have, unless Sandy has a big “Honey Do” list for you. Thanks, Elmer, for your outstanding service and dedication.
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
Partners Protect First Responders Local Businesses will Provide for Fire/EMS Families in Cases of Emergency
The Members Aid Program (MAP) was created by the LFD Chaplains to assist a family with immediate basic needs, such as groceries, prepared meals, child care and gasoline. Various businesses in the Laurel fire district have volunteered to donate their goods and services as a Partner in the Members Aid Program (MAP). Carey’s Inc., Royal Farms, Food Lion, Laurel Pizzeria, Laurel Dutch Inn and the Western Sussex Boys and Girls Club of Laurel have agreed to donate these services and goods for families faced with the injury or death of a family member in the line of duty with the Laurel Fire Department and EMS Services. LFD President Bill Hearn said, “We hope we never need their help, but it's good to know that they are there in case we need to take care of one of our members.” LFD personnel are highly trained for safety, but the emergency scene can still be largely
unpredictable. The last Line of Duty Death (LODD) within the Department was in the mid-1990s, with one prior to that in the late1970s. Perhaps the most publicly recognized LODD in Sussex County was that of Paramedic Stephanie Callaway, when the ambulance in which she was tending to a patient, crashed in 2008. Above: LFD President Bill Hearn presents plaque to Carey’s Inc. owners Grace and
Bobby Carey (top left), Royal Farms’ Amber Burbage (top right), Laurel Dutch Inn General Manager Salima Arsoan (center left), Laurel Pizzeria owner Maria Sakellis (center right) and Laurel Boys & Girls Club Director Brian Daisey and Seaford Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club Director Chris Couch (lower right) in recognition of their partnership in the Members Aid Program. - Submitted by Michael Lowe
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service in Action
Dover stove fire. el J. O’Connor, Jr. d - Submitte by Micha
On August 2, 2015, Stations 1 with a vehicle on fir and 27 were alerted to an MVC e on the Summit Br idg - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by VH e. C
The Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company responded to an MVC at Slaughter Neck and Neal Roads in Lincoln, on June 19, 2015. - Submitted by Lisa Turner
5, On August 29, 201 Greenwood Stations 78, 72, 47, and Medic 107 were dispatched to a barn fire. - Submitted by Deputy Chief Mark Anderson
Extrication on Old Baltimore Pike. - Submitted by Dave Horack
On May 9, 2015, Volunt eer Hose respon with a vehicle into a stru ded to an MVC cture. - Submitted by Tim Mu rray, photo by Amy Mu rray
ok Em and Cook Em. An electrical fire at Ho ralia by - Submitted Tony Pet
6, KM 5, Ambulance 64, KM ndled a Clayton Station 45, ha 5, s 201 Op 6, al st eci gu Sp Au ty un On Police and Kent Co n yto nt. Cla me 4, rap er ent oop Tr call with an car into a building by Mike Carroll - DFSN photo
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 47
ton Recently, Wilming led firefighters were cal C for two-vehicle MV with entrapment a between a car and school bus on busy ton’s downtown Wilming ere Th e. enu Av are Delaw was one fatality. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
On Thursday August 20, 2015, Volunteer Hose Company Stations 1 and 27 were alerted to a MVC with a vehicle into a structure. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by VHC
ked for additional injured at Citizens Hose Company crews chec ct ejected on Massey Church subje one with ver rollo a of scene the cs and T-4 also responded. medi KC 64, , units 44 on Stati . Road Hull - Submitted by CHC, photo by Jerry
Page 48, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service in Action On July 17, 2015, Wilmington firefighters responded to a house fire on E. 7th Street in Wilmington. The fire was in a second-floor bedroom. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
MVC. Warrington Road n Jones - Submitted by Warre
MVC on Black Smith Shop Road. - Submitted by Deputy Chief Mark Anderson
ach. yed in Bethany Be Beach house destro Tony Petralia by d - Submitte
Extrication in Middletown. - Photos by Tim Murray
Recently, Citizens Hose Company crews assiste d Station 26 units on a rollover with entrap ment on Route 1 Frederick Lodge Turnpi northbound at ke. - Submitted by CHC
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 49
Delaware Fire Service in Action
Smoke showing in Felton. - Submitted by Eugene Tucker
Chestertown 4-Alar mer. - Submitted by Skip Carrow; photo cou rtesy of Sarah Davis
2-Truck MVC in Dover. - Submitted by or Jr., Michael J. O’Conn photo by Firefighter Sean Byron
Page 50, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association 114th Annual Convention Delaware City, DE
The Delaware City Fire Department was proud to host the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association’s 114th Annual Convention from July 29 through August 1, 2015. This convention was attended by fire service personnel from the member states of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Delaware, as well as guests from New York. The convention was dedicated to the memory of the late C. Ivy Costango. Ivy passed away suddenly after a short illness earlier this year. She was an integral part of the Convention Committee from its inception and is missed more than words can say. The convention festivities started with their board and finance meeting on Wednesday followed by a Meet Your Host night. On Thursday the convention officially opened. The Memorial Service was held at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church. Chaplain Charles E. Barnhart, Jr., spoke about the traditions in the fire service. It was a wonderful message and was well attended. The meetings were very informative and productive. That evening, the attendees enjoyed a BBQ with delicious meats prepared by the Past-Chiefs Club of the Delaware State Fire Chiefs Association. It was a great night for networking and relaxing. On Friday, the day started with the five states meeting. There was a lot of discussion in regards to the fire sprinkler issue and the need for them to be in residential areas, especially in new construction. Once again it was a very informative meeting attended by over 100 of our fire service leaders. We were fortunate to have Candice McDonald hold a seminar on Friday regarding Reputation Management, which is very important to be aware of especially in this technological cameras/video everywhere age.
The banquet was held that night, which saw President Walter Robertson of Stuart’s Draft, Virginia, hand the reins over to Hoby Howell of Bel Air, Maryland. The keynote speaker that evening was Dr. Denis Onieal, Deputy U. S. Fire Administrator. Delaware City was extremely proud when our own Nick Neel, a fourth generation firefighter, received the Happy Jack Youth Leadership Award. On Saturday, there was a parade that went from Governor Bacon through town and ended at the fire station where everyone enjoyed the traditional parade fare of hot dogs and sodas. The Master of Ceremonies for the parade was Tom Mitten. Tom’s knowledge of the fire service and finesse as the announcer helped to make the parade a successful event. The awards were handed out, which included plaques and monetary prizes. We look forward to the convention next year, which will be hosted by our neighbors to the west, Cecil and Harford Counties in Maryland. This convention was successful due to the hard work and dedication of the committee from Delaware City and a number of other fire service personnel that assisted them over the last two year’s preparation. Each day the meals were prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary who outdid themselves with the food and hospitality. As always, the CVVFA is dedicated to responder and highway safety and invites everyone to go to their online courses to expand your knowledge of these vitally important topics. Visit them at Responder Safety.com. - Written by Jim Watson, Past President CVVFA, photo by Diane Guthrie
Cumberland Valley VFA Receives Prestigious Telly Award for PSA The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association produced a public service announcement “Move It” to encourage drivers who have been involved in minor, noinjury accidents to pull off the road, thus reducing the chance of a secondary crash. The PSA received a Bronze Telly Award that was presented to the producer, Stonehouse Media of Lambertville, New Jersey, and the CVVFA. The video was shot on an abandoned piece of US 13 in Delaware City. The Delaware City Fire Company provided the vehicles and all the logistical support for the production. The Telly
Award was presented at the 114th Annual CVVFA Convention held in Delaware City. The Telly Awards was founded in 1978 to honor excellence in local, regional and cable TV commercials and non-broadcast video and TV programs. The Telly Awards is the premier award honoring the finest film and video productions, groundbreaking web commercials, videos and films, and outstanding local, regional, and cable TV commercials and programs. It is one of the most sought-after awards by industry leaders, from large international firms
Charter Members of the CVVFA President Council Honored at Convention
to local production companies and ad agencies. The 35th Annual Telly Awards received over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and five continents. See the “Move It” production at www.respondersafety.com.
Cadet Neel Receives “Happy Jack” Award Family and Company members gathered as Delaware City Cadet Nicholas B. Neel received the CVVFA Chief Gary “Happy Jack” Easton Youth Leadership award at the CVVFA Convention. The award also came with a Cairns helmet courtesy of Kevin Greenlee and the Fire Store of Williamsport, MD. The CVVFA Youth Leadership Award is presented to a firefighter who is under the age of 21 and who has displayed leadership ability within the fire department.
The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association established the Presidents Council in 1985 to further communications between fire service leadership in the various states. In celebration of the 30th Anniversary, the living Charter Members were honored during the Convention in Delaware City. (Left to right): Steve Austin DVFA/CVVFA past-President; Bob Sweetman DFVA pastPresident; George Dover CVVFA past-President; Lawrence Association/CVVFA past-President; and Jim Cubbage DVFA pastMergenthaler DVFA past-President and CVVFA President’s President. Not pictured is Allen Brennan VA State Council Founder; Bob Cumberland Maryland State Firemen’s Firefighters/CVVFA past-President. - Photo by Bob Romig
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 51
CVVFA
Delaware City FC, Hosts Cumberland Valley VFA By Bob Romig Delaware City was the host for this year’s convention on July 29-31, 2015, and it ended with a parade on Saturday, August 1. The weather held after some rain on Thursday night, but all went well on Saturday. We didn’t have as large a turnout as we had hoped, but everyone enjoyed themselves. The Delaware City Refinery brought out their artillery as well - an engine, hose tender and super pumper. The hose tender carried 7-½ inch hose and the super pumper (on a trailer) is capable of pumping 6500 gpm! That’s a lot of water and super hose. I wouldn’t want to pick that stuff up. The results of the parade are as follows: Best Appearing Uniformed Fire Co. with Music Citizens Hose Co, Smyrna, DE 2nd Place - Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Co., Newark, DE Best Appearing Engine 1250gpm or Larger Delaware City Refinery; 2nd place - Hacks Point FC, MD Best Appearing Engine 1250gpm or Less - Church Hill FC, MD; 2nd place - Greenwood FC, DE Best Appearing Aerial Device - Volunteer Hose Co, Middletown, DE; 2nd place - Church Hill, MD; 3rd place - Five Points FC, Wilm., DE Best Appearing Engine/Tanker - Delaware City Refinery, DE President’s Award - Delaware Air National Guard Band; 2nd place - Mill Creek FC, Marshallton, DE Best Appearing Rescue/Squad - Port Penn FC, DE; 2nd place - Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Co, DE Best Appearing Ambulance/BLS Unit - McConnellsburg FC, PA; 2nd place - Christiana FC, DE Best Appearing Specialized Unit - Delaware City Refinery, DE; 2nd place - Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder, DE Best Appearing Brush Truck - Mill Creek FC, Marshallton, DE; 2nd place - McConnellsburg FC, PA Best Marked Fire Apparatus for Highway Incident Scene SafetyAetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Co, DE Best Marked Ambulance for Highway Incident Scene SafetyMcConnellsburg FC, PA
Best Appearing Antique Hand or Horse drawn - Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Co, Newark, DE Best Appearing Antique Engine Driven in Parade - Wilmington Manor FC, New Castle, DE; 2nd place - Steve Austin, Newark, DE Fire Department Apparatus Farthest Traveled - McConnellsburg FC, PA Best Appearing Privately-owned Fire Antique Apparatus Steve Austin, Newark, DE Special Judges awards: New Castle County Police Department ATV; Bowers Beach FC, DE; Delaware River & Bay Authority Motorcycle unit Everyone returned to Station 15 for refreshments and the awarding of trophies. Please mark your calendars for the 115th Annual CVVFA Convention parade being hosted by the Harford-Cecil County Firemen's Association in Elkton, Maryland on August 6, 2016. For more info contact John Denver (not the singer) at jdenver@singerly.com or 443-9453316. For more info on our association, please visit our website at www.cvvfa.org and we urge you to join. Also visit our Responder Safety website at www. ResponderSafety.com for some great info on highway safety and how to protect our emergency responders on the highways.
Page 52, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
Scenes from the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Convention
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 53
CVVFA
United States Fire Administrator Chief Mitchell stops by the ResponderSafety.com booth.
At FRI 2015 Candice McDonald presented the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation with another donation on behalf of Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association.
Congratulations to Mr. Steve Austin for being the recipient of the 2015 Garry Briese IAFC Safety Performance Award. This award was presented in Atlanta at FRI 2015.
14-Year Old’s Unique Display During the annual Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Convention, there was a rather unique display presented by Colton Matthews, a 14-year old from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Colton, since he was six-years old, has collected fire, police, military and emergency related patches. During the past eight years he has amassed approximately over 4,000 patches. He and his mother brought a display that was only able to provide space for 500 patches and other memorabilia. Colton said he started the collection to say “thank you” to all the fire, police, EMS, military and other emergency responders. Over the years he has sent requests via e-mails, USPS, phone calls as well as attending various events in the region. He usually attends several non-profit events with his display and has received several donated patches and memorabilia, as well as donations, to help with the cost of maintaining the display. Some of the monetary donations he has given back to various local fire companies to help them promote fire safety. Colton was presented an award from the CVVFA for his display at the convention. In the meantime, be on the lookout for Colton in your area and see if you have an emergency related services patch to donate to his display. - Submitted by W. Mike McMichael
Page 54, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Up Close & Personal
On August 24, 2015, the Bethany Beach Fire Company conducted training for junior and new members. - Submitted by Tony Petralia
Wilmington firefighter responding to a July 17, 2015, house fire on E. 7th Street in Wilmington. - Submitted by BC James Jobes
Citizens’ Hose Company Firefighter Chris Wolski with his sons, Stephen Wolski and Devon Pleasanton before the Smyrna/Clayton July 4th Parade. - Submitted by CHC
Assistant Ambulance Service Director Bradley Gosch, with paramedic Megan Moreman, and Bradley’s youngest son Liam Alan. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company held their inaugural Fire Fightin’ 5k run on August 23, 2015. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Mill Creek at the Fourth of July Parade. - Submitted by Jim Woznicki
Citizens’ Hose Company past-Chiefs Alan Robinson and Gerald Mood at the scene of a car fire. - Submitted by CHC
October 2015
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 55
HOSE CONNECTIONS
by Steve Austin, continued from page 4
A Pilgrimage with a Special Fireman to Visit Hallowed Ground
(Left to right): Chief Ken Farrall, Firefighter Geoff Daniels, Chief John Rudd, Captain George Schofield, Fire Police Jerry Daniels and Fire Police Steve Austin. then recovered the bodies of those who did not make it out. Sadly, some years later that fireman who volunteered would die in the line of duty at a working fire. It was fascinating to hear such stories. The opportunity to spend time with George and his son Rich would have been memorable in itself, but when added to the guided tour of the Museum it became a day to remember. We found that the staff and the volunteers who work at the 9-11 Museum are especially attuned to identifying members of the fire serv-
(Left to right):Captain George Schofield and Firefighter Richard Schofield.
ice, especially senior members like Captain Schofield. George was wearing his WWII Veteran ball cap. We were quickly approached and were asked if were firefighters, and, when we answered we were accompanying a decorated FDNY retiree, we were placed at the head of the line. The usher who moved us to the front spoke to the rest of the crowd. “These are firemen,” he told them, “when firemen come here we show them special consideration.” No one in the crowd protested.
It soon became clear to me, that like us, our fellow visitors sensed the souls of the almost 3000 who perished, including the 343 from the FDNY. We were walking on hallowed ground. To be doing so with a man such as Captain George Schofield made everything so much more poignant. Maybe there was a reason I hadn’t gone to visit before. Perhaps that was the way it was supposed to be.
Page 56, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
FAMA AWARDS 2015 PHILLIP L. TURNER SCHOLARSHIP TO TYLER LAMBERT The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) has awarded its 2015 Phillip L. Turner Fire Protection Scholarship to Oklahoma State University student Tyler Lambert. Lambert is a senior at Oklahoma State University and plans to graduate this year from the School of Fire Protection and Safety in the College of Engineering and Technology. He currently serves as a volunteer firefighter for Ingalls (OK) Fire Department while maintaining a 3.25 GPA. He received the $5,000 scholarship in recognition of his outstanding academic achievements and commitment to the fire service. The award is given annually by FAMA and has been sponsored since 2009 by FAMA member Akron Brass Co., a worldwide marketer and manufacturer of high performance life-safety, firefighting and emergency rescue equipment. A presentation was made today at the FAMA Technical Committee meeting held in conjunction with the Fire-Rescue International conference in Atlanta, GA. During the application review process, the FAMA Education Committee asked students to explain their reasons to pursue a career in fire. Tyler responded, “I am passionate about a career in firefighting and challenged by the opportunity to someday serve as a fire protection engineer. I am fortunate enough to be able to continue to serve as a volunteer fire fighter while attending OSU. Firefighting runs in my family history. My father, my brother and I all serve on our hometown fire department in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey.” Lou Milanovich, FAMA Education Committee Chair, stated, “The funds from this scholarship will help Tyler pay for his final year in the Fire Protection Engineering MS program at OSU.” “Akron Brass is honored to sponsor the Phillip L. Turner Scholarship. Education is a key part of the philosophy at Akron
Brass, and we feel it is our responsibility to provide individuals like Tyler an opportunity to build the critical skills and knowledge to be successful in life and as leaders within the fire and emergency service industry,” stated David Durstine, Vice President for Akron Brass. On behalf of FAMA, we wish Tyler much success in his future endeavors. The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association is a non-profit trade association committed to enhancing the quality of the emergency service community through the manufacture and sale of safe, efficient emergency-response vehicles and equipment. For more information, visit www.fama.org.
Page 58, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2015
Fire Marshal’s Report Playground Equipment Fire Intentionally Set
Robert L. Fox Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that a fire on September 2, 2015 involving playground equipment was arson. The Holloway Terrace Fire Company was called to the Simonds Gardens Park at approximately 1830 for a report of playground equipment on fire. Upon arrival the fire department found heavy smoke and flames coming from the playground equipment. Deputy Fire Marshals were called to the scene and have determined that the fire was intentionally started by unknown person or persons igniting combustibles.Damage to the equipment is extensive and estimated at approximately $60,000. Anyone with information in reference to this fire are urged to contact The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office at 323-5375 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333.
Firefighters arrived on the scene with smoke pouring from the 400-by-50-foot structure. Deputy fire marshals conducted the investigation. An electrical outlet failed inside the building, sparking the fire. The flock of chickens all survived. Fire damage was estimated at $10,000. There were no reported injuries.
Fatal Fire in Ocean View
Michael G. Chionchio Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a house fire in Ocean View that occurred on August 16, 2015. One person was found deceased inside the burning home. The Millville Fire Company responded to the 100 block of Woodland Avenue shortly after 0200 for reports of a house on fire. Firefighters arrived on the scene with flames engulfing the two-story dwelling. Firefighters recovered one person inside the Multiple Townhouses Damaged by Fire home. Robert L. Fox The victim was turned over to the Division of Forensic Science (DFS) Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a house fire in for an autopsy. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $25,000. There were Wilmington, that occurred on July 19, 2015. The Mill Creek Fire no smoke alarms in the house. Company responded to the 4900 block of South Raintree Court, in the Fireworks Responsible for Marydel Blaze Pepperidge Townhouse community, shortly before 2300, for a report of a townhouse on fire. Upon arrival fire department, personnel found Michael G. Chionchio heavy fire and smoke coming from the house. The incident quickly went Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that a fire on to a second alarm bringing multiple fire companies to the scene. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no civilian August 24, 2015 in Marydel was caused by fireworks. The blaze, reportinjuries. The two adjacent townhomes received smoke and water dam- ed shortly before 1030, occurred in the 4700 block of Mahan Corner age. The affected residents are staying with family. Damage estimate is Road. The Marydel Fire Company arrived on the scene of a 12-by-24foot stand-alone garage engulfed in flames. approximately $200,000. State fire investigators were called to the scene and conducted the investigation. Two males, ages 15 and 14, were discharging fireworks Electrical Fire in Harrington commonly known as bottle rockets and one of the devices struck the Michael G. Chionchio, garage and caused the ignition of combustibles resulting in the blaze. Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office has determined that a build- Heavy fire damage was estimated at $7,500. There were no injuries. ing fire on August 24, 2015 in Harrington was accidental. The Criminal charges are pending the completion of the investigation. All Harrington Fire Company responded to the 2600 block of Sugar Stick fireworks, including sparklers and sky lanterns, are illegal to possess, Road shortly before 0900 for a 9-1-1 report of a poultry building on fire. use, or sell in the State of Delaware.