VOLUME 20, NO. 5
SERVING DELAWARE’S FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS COMMUNITY
OCTOBER 2017
See story on page 18. -DFSN photo by John Randolph
DVFA/LADVFA Conference Agenda See page 8
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 3
In this issue... Commercial Fire Draws a Crowd Felton Community Fire Co., along with Goldsboro (MD) and Camden-Wyoming, were alerted for a commercial structure fire. See story page 9
1 Fatality, 1 FF Injured in Cheswold Blaze
Cheswold firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the second floor of a fiveunit apartment building and reports of a subject trapped.
See story page 15
CHC Handles Route 1 Rollover In July, the Citizens’ Hose Company responded to a MVC with rollover on northbound Route 1 in Smyrna. See story page 19
SCEMS Hosts Grand Opening of New Station Sussex County EMS placed into service its newest station, which will house Medic 104 and the East District Supervisor, EMS 100. See story page 34
Greenwood’s Clayton C. Yocum, Sr. Clayton C. Yocum Sr., passed away on August 5, 2017, at Christiana Hospital. He was 73. See story page 49
Congratulations President Theodore ‘Ted’ Walius For his service as DVFA’s President for the past year. See story page 54
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Delaware Fire Service in Action . . . .pages 44-47 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 48 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 62 Fire Marshal’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 59
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 bi-monthly 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, Christine Bennett, Dave Bosco, Earl Brode, B. Scott Bullock, Sean Byron, Dave Carpenter, Mike Carroll, Skip Carrow, Michael G. Chionchio, Fred Cullis, Michele Ehart, Mary Eisenbrey, Mark Felicetti, Dave Ferguson, Robert Fox, Jon Gallo, Claudia Garner, Glenn Gillespie, Larry Gum, Chuck Hayes, Dave Horack, Doug Hudson, Jerry Hull, Sean Humphreys, Chad Ingram, Bill Ireland, Jr., Terry Jester, James Jobes, Warren F. Jones, Ed Kalinowski, Kevin Keating, Ryan Knowles, Randall Lee, Michael Lowe, Chris Lucas, Karen Majewski, Candice McDonald, Mike McMichael, Harry Miller, Patrick Miller, Tom Mitten, Joseph Mriss, Joe Mullen, Amy Murray, Tim Murray, Michael J. O’Connor Jr., Dwayne Pearson, Phil Pennington Sr., Gary Plotts, Bob Powell, Patricia Quigley, Patrick Quigley, John Randolph, James Read, Matthew Read, Lauden Robertson, Bob Romig, D. Ruff, Gene Shaner, Kevin Sipple, Chuck Snyder, Russell Stinson, William Thomas, Eugene Tucker, Lisa Turner, Leonard Tylecki, Rob Watts, Jim Watson, Steve Watson, Matt Williams, Dave Wilson, Jack Wilson, Kevin Wilson, Jim Woznicki ADVERTISING: Rate card and marketing information are available on request. To advertise call 631-776-0500 x111 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 631-776-0500 x111 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 1st Choice Safety Equipment .... 27 AdvantEdge Healthcare ...... 37 Air Space .............................. 13 Amer. Military Univ ............. 45 Atlantic Emergency Solutions ................... 5, 25, 32, 33, 39, 63 Bay Health ........................... 14 Breaking News Network ...... 59 Delmarva Power .................. 17 Delaware House Democrats... 21 Delaware House Republican Caucus ................................. 23 DPC ............................. 2, 29, 64 Emergency Responder Reply Systems ................................ 53 ESI ....................................... 19 FDIC ................................... 41 FireFlow .............................. 47 Firehouse Expo ................... 51
Firehouse Kitchen ............... 55 Gennaro Jewelers .................. 9 Liberty Artworks .................. 35 Marlings ............................... 15 National Fallen Firefighter’s Stair Climb ........................... 49 PNC Bank .............................. 7 Provident Agency Inc. ......... 13 Roll-N-Rack ......................... 18 Rush Uniforms .................... 19 Senator Chris Coons ............ 31 Spicer Mullikin .................... 38 Sutphen ................................ 11 Syntex ................................... 43 Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund ............... 43 The Fire Store ...................... 10 Ultra Bright Lights .............. 43
Page 4, Delaware Fire Service News
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
9/11: Never Forget Every year, I sit back and think of the staggering statistics that have changed the lives of so many responders and innocent civilians who had the misfortune of being murdered in the attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001. For those of you who lived, worked, responded, were curious and visited the site, the smell cannot be forgotten. The smoky mix of burnt plastic and smoldering materials can instantly bring back memories for many of the aftermath of the collapse of the two towers of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Some facts: 91,000 liters of jet fuel and 1,200,000 tons of building materials burned at 1000 degrees for a very long time. There were 23,000 fluorescent light bulbs in the World Trade Center. The bulbs contained small amounts of known carcinogens which vaporized for everyone to breathe. Then there were 75,000 telephones reportedly in the buildings, attached by 19,000 miles of cable — think PCBs. The coatings on the cables and 300 main frame computers that were pulverized and burned gave off toxic gases that many inhaled for many weeks. [Visit the “Let’s Roll Forum” for some incredible facts about the WTC.] This year, I lost a few close friends, who succumbed to 9/11 related cancers. I can only say they set the example of being true American heroes by continuing to make everyone aware that the diseases related to the attack on this country continue to have a horrible impact on us. I thank Firefighter Jimmy Lanza of Ladder 43 and Firefighter Ray Pfeifer for all they did to make sure our government does not walk away from a situation that is predicted to continue to get worse. Doctors have now linked many respiratory illnesses and 68 cancers to the WTC toxic dust. Last September, the FDNY added 17 names to a list of those who have died of 9/11-related illness, bringing the total to 127. I am sure this list will grow in 2017. In the true tradition of the FDNY, the NYPD and the PAPD, they have not forgotten their own, who continue to succumb to 9/11 related illnesses. We must never forget all of our first responders, emergency responders, recovery and cleanup workers, and volunteers who helped in the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Never forget the survivors who lived, worked or went to school near the World Trade Center on September 11 or in the subsequent months. Records show that the total number of all 9/11 responders, including firefighters, who have been diagnosed with WTClinked cancers now exceeds 5,100. I read that Dr. Raja Flores, Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, one of seven sites affiliated with the WTC Health Program, insists that researchers are just scratching the surface with these findings. Dr. Flores reminds us that there’s no doubt that we will see a sharp increase in 9/11-related cancers over the next 30 years. Sadly, the real mass of 9/11-related cancer deaths is probably yet to come. Remember, never forget. Stay vigilant and continue to monitor the aftermath of 9/11. Dennis
October 2017
Mayday Policy Part II
Who - What - Where by John ‘Jack’ Wilson III By now, I hope all of the Delaware Fire Service community has read the Statewide MAYDAY Policy. The goal of the committee was to have all three counties with seven dispatch centers on the same page in terms of MAYDAY responses. Within the next few issues of the Delaware State Fire Service News, I will break down the policy to the three areas of responsibilities (Firefighters/1st Responder calling MAYDAY, Incident Commanders, and Dispatchers) so that it is relatable to departments of all levels of call volumes. This article will focus on the Firefighter or 1st Responder. We are using the W-W-W (WhoWhat-Where) model for the Firefighters and 1st Responders. This is instead of LUNAR (Location-UnitName-Assignment/AIR - Resources needed) that has been taught for years at many fire academies. The LUNAR process will be performed by Incident Command or Dispatchers to gain more information during the event. I have been asked why this approach was taken. We felt as a committee that W-W-W would be the easiest for our first-in responders to remember. This decision was made after listening to Chief Mike Lombardo and other national educators promoting the simplest process available for the MAYDAY caller to survive. Giving a long radio transmission of great detail should not be what he/she is trying to do. A rapid transmission of the W-WW gets the message out so that the other pieces of the MAYDAY response fall into place. Considering those next pieces, there is high chance that a crew nearby is going to make the firefighter rescue before a Rapid Intervention Team get to them. We cannot look into a crystal ball and predict what your fire is going to be or how rapidly developed it is going to be on arrival. Good pre-arrival information, good 360 size ups, aggressive fire strategies, and calm ICs will be needed to direct aggressive firefighters into some challenging and dynamic situations. In addition to training on the MAYDAY policy, our firefighters also need to make sure they know firefighter survival techniques, as giving up is not an option. Typical average protective clothing may start to fail around 300 degrees. If we are in a situation that deteriorates rapidly, we need to be prepared to get out. Studies such as the one from Don Abbotts, indicate that 50 percent of our MAYDAYs happen from falling through roofs or into basements. We need to be prepared to act. I am also a realist who understands that, although with close to 100 firefighters dying in
the line of duty each year, interior firefighting represents a relatively small number (Check Bill Carey’s work in Fire Engineering). At risk of stepping on my soapbox again, I want to make sure we all agree that we need proper training to develop the motor-sensory skills needed to perform under stressful conditions. It’s a proven fact that our US military are so prepared because of their continuous training under stressful conditions. They become ‘Combat Ready’ (a term being widely used in the fire service today). So, I ask this question: Are you combat ready? Do you understand what it takes to be combat ready? If not, it’s about time to figure it out. If we don’t train with the same sense of urgency as in real life MAYDAY situations, we can’t be certain that we’ll perform at the needed level. I highly recommend the books On Combat, by Lt. Dave Grossman and Firepsyche, by Battalion Chief Eric J. Nurenberg, for an understanding of mental preparation. I also recommend classes like Stress Inoculation training by Fairfax County Fire Department. These will test your limits as you may have never been tested before. We need to make sure we are prepared, have the best equipment and personnel with aggressive thought processes. We need to make sure we are buying fire service radios with the capabilities that perform under extreme capabilities. We need to make sure we train every day to be able to combat the situation we may encounter. I never want to lose someone again. (Wishful thinking or is it?) So firefighters, chief officers, and training officers, on your next drill or SCBA recertification try s o m e M AY D AY i n t e r a c t i o n s . MAYDAY - MAYDAY-MAYDAY. Firefighter Wilson, second floor rear bedroom, trapped in some wires, need help…. Conduct muscle memory drills in full protective clothing on low SCBA air after getting participants’ heart rate up. Put people through the motions. Coaching and mentoring will help with this task. The firefighters will benefit, training will be effective and you will become more engaged with them. Good luck, train hard.
Page 6, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Serving Delaware’s First Responders Since 1921
DVFA Office DVFA Year: September marks the end of the DVFA year. It is when we hold our annual conference, when we honor our people and when we change our officers. We hope you will take the time to attend the conference and don’t miss the two premiere events: the Opening Ceremony on Thursday and the Memorial Service on Friday. Committee Selections: The committee selection sheets will be available at the DVFA Meeting on Thursday at the conference and at the DVFA Office in the hotel during the conference. If you are interested in serving on a committee please fill out a form during the conference.
Conference 2017: By the time you read this article, the conference will be just ready to start or already started. This year we have some old favorites and some new things for you. We have plenty of exhibitors, some new and some repeats, with both inside and outdoor displays. Please take the time to visit our vendors and see what they have to offer. Our Meet Your Host affair has moved to the Diamond Room on the second floor. The Opening Ceremony on Thursday morning will have the annual Year in Review video. Thursday night is the fun filled Ladies “Hospitality” and the annual Chiefs Meeting with guest speaker Bobby Halton. The Friday Memorial Service will prove to be
as poignant and reflective as ever and the DVFA/LADVFA Choir is prepared to delight you. We congratulate President Ted Walius, his officers and the LADVFA officers for a great year and we wish the incoming success during their term. We have enjoyed working with you all this year. Our office is here to serve and help you. Call or e-mail us at any time. Warren Jones Executive Manager 302-535-4566 wjones@dvfassn.com
DVFA President by Ted Walius, 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. This certainly has been a busy year with a lot of ups and downs. We started the year with the loss of my co-partner LADVFA President Lois Pearson. She was special person who I had looked forward to serving with. We next lost our long-serving conference secretary Virginia Yeager. Her service to the conference will truly be missed. Just recently we lost our incoming 2nd Vice-President, Clay Yocum. Clay really looked forward to going through the chairs of the DVFA. All will be missed. The legislative issues, especially the budget short fall, kept us very busy in Legislative Hall.
At one point they cut Grant in Aid completely, causing us the hold a press conference and rally on the steps of legislative hall. While Grant in Aid was restored to 80 percent of last year’s level, it was a severe disappointment to the fire service of Delaware. I wish to thank everyone who came to legislative hall and participated in the rally and talked to their legislators. The process is expected to be the same for next year, so all of us need to talk our legislators to have Grant in Aid restored to its full level. I wish to thank the Recruitment and Retention Committee, which worked very hard on the recruitment and retention programs to bring new people into our companies. Recruitment is one of our most important objectives. While we have completed our SAFER Grant, we did add money to our budget this year for recruitment. I want to thank all of you who have served on a DVFA committee this past year. Your willingness to serve is truly appreciated. I wanted to especially thank Assistant Treasurer George Pyott who stepped up to take over the Treasurer’s job. George has done an excellent job.
Congratulations to LADVFA and its officers for filling in for Lois and for a successful year in her name. She would have appreciated it. I want to congratulate Delaware State Fire Chief’s Association President Terry Jester, State Fire Police President Marty Redington and Emergency Medical Services Association President Matt Gajdos, and 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. I wish incoming President Richard Perillo and his officers the best for the next year. I wish to thank the members and officers of the Ellendale Fire Company for supporting me during my tenure in the association. Lastly, I wanted to thank all of you for your hospitality, your friendship and your kindness. Thank you and have a great conference!
In Memory of Lois Pearson We were saddened to hear of the passing of LADVFA President Lois Pearson on November 16, 2016. Please keep the Pearson family, the LADVFA, and the Greenwood Fire Company family in your thoughts and prayers.
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 7
Page 8, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
2017 Conference Agenda 23rd Annual Conference Dover Downs Hotel & Casino September 12 -16, 2017
Monday, September 11, 2017 1830 - 2000
Makeup Conference Bags/Packages
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Chesapeake Room
Thursday, September 14, 2017 0700 - 0830
Continental Breakfast
Pre-Function area
0700 - 0830
DVFA Registration
Chesapeake Room
0700 - 0830
LADVFA Registration
Silver Lake Room
0700 - 0800
Continental Breakfast
Ballroom B/C
0800 - 1700
Pre-Function/Rollins Lot
0700 - 0800
EMS Registration
Show Bar Pre-Function area
Exhibits (Inside and Outside)
0800 - 1700
H.O.T.S (Burn Prop)
Delaware State Fire School
0800 - 1600
EMS CEU Classes
Ballroom B/C
0830 - 1030
Joint Opening Ceremonies
Ballroom B/C
0800 - 1700
EMS Exhibits (Inside and Outside)
Pre-Function/Rollins Lot
1130 - 1430
DVFA Conference Meeting Ballroom C
0900 - 1100
DVFA Pension Workshop
Chesapeake Room
1200 - 1500
LADVFA Luncheon
Ballroom A/B
0900 - 1100
Legal Issues in the Fire Service
Silver Lake Room
1530 - 1730
DVFA/LADVFA Mutual Relief Meeting
Ballroom C
1300 - 1500
Office of the Auditor Seminar
Silver Lake Room
1700 - 1800
Fire Chiefs Past Pres. Cheswold Fire Hall Reception (Invitation Only)
1730 - 1830
Past Presidents Reception (Invitation Only)
Ballroom A
1730 - 1830
Fire Chiefs Reception
Cheswold Fire Hall
1830 - 2200
Cheswold Fire Hall
Past Presidents Banquet (Invitation Only)
Ballroom A
Fire Chiefs Association Dinner Meeting
1830 - 2200
LADVFA Hospitality Night Ballroom A/B
1830 - 2130
Wednesday, September 13, 2017 0800 - 1700
Exhibits (Inside and Outside)
Pre-Function/Rollins Lot
0800 - 1500
EMS Meetings Ballroom C (see EMS Committee agenda)
0900 - 1100
Recruitment and Chesapeake Room Retention of Younger Members.
0900 - 1400
Friday, September 15, 2017 0700 - 0830
Continental Breakfast
Pre-Function area
0700 - 0830
DVFA Registration
Chesapeake Room
0700 - 0830
LADVFA Registration
Silver Lake Room
0730 - 1700
Exhibits (Inside and Outside)
Pre-Function/Rollins Lot
LADVFA Golf Tournament Dover Par 3
0800 - 1700
H.O.T.S (Burn Prop)
Delaware State Fire School
1300 - 1500
DVFA Round Table Discussion Seminar
0830 - 1030
Joint Memorial Service
Ballroom B/C
1700 - 1800
Fire Police Past Pres. Kent Room/Mezzanine Reception (Invitation Only)
1045 - 1145
Past Presidents & VIP Reception (Invitation Only)
Lobby Bar
1800 - 1830
EMS Association Reception Ballroom C
1130 - 1430
LADVFA Meeting
Ballroom C
1800 - 1900
Fire Police Association Reception
Ballroom A/B
1200 - 1500
DVFA Educational Luncheon
Ballroom A/B
1830 - 2200
EMS Association Dinner Meeting
Ballroom C
1700 - 1900
Joint Installation Ceremonies
Ballroom C
1900 - 2200
Fire Police Association Dinner Meeting
Ballroom A/B
1900 - 2200
Meet Your Host
Diamond Room
Chesapeake Room
DVFA Office will be set-up in the Delaware Room all week NO show policy in effect for all events
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 9
Commercial Structure Fire Draws a Crowd
On June 26, 2017, Felton Community Fire Company, along with Goldsboro (MD) and Camden-Wyoming, were alerted for a commercial structure fire on Willow Grove Road. Fire Chief Kevin Sipple arrived on scene and requested multiple additional resources. These vacant structures were last home to a recycling plant and former home of San-Del Pickle. This fire was ruled as intentionally set by the DE State Fire Marshal’s Office. Agencies also assisting included (Kent County Fire Companies): Bowers, Carlisle, Cheswold, Dover, Farmington, Frederica, Harrington, Hartly, Houston, Leipsic, Little Creek, Magnolia, Marydel, South Bowers; (Sussex County): Bridgeville, Greenwood, Seaford; (Caroline County, MD): Denton, Greensboro, Ridgely. (Queen Anne’s): Centerville and Sudlersville. (State and County): Fire School, Fire Marshal’s Office, State Police, Fire Police, DelDOT, DNREC, Kent County Paramedics and the Kent County Mobile Command Post. - Submitted by Rob Watts
Page 10, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Indian River Handles Boat Fire On May 29, 2017, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for a marine fire at the Shorts Marine Storage Yard on Long Neck Road. It was reported to be a single-boat fully involved. Response units included Tanker 80 from the Oak Orchard facility, Engines 80-3 and 80-1 from the Long Neck facility, as well as the Delaware State Fire Police. The boat was fully involved with heavy fire and smoke showing upon arrival. Indian River stretched two 1-3/4 inch lines to stop the blaze. - Submitted by Steven Deery, Jr.
Aetna Assists Singerly On August 2, 2017, Aetna assisted Singerly on a residential fire. First arriving crews found fire in an attached garage and throughout a two-story, single-family dwelling. Chief Bowerson, Deputy Chief Schall, and Engine 8 operated for three hours. - DFSN photo by Dave Wilson
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 11
Page 12, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Hartly Assists Sudlersville
On July 23, 2017, Hartly volunteers were alerted to assist Queen upon arrival, were directed by command to assist with fire suppresAnne’s County (MD) Station 6 (Sudlersville) with a residential sion and ventilation. Crews operated for approximately three - Submitted by James Read structure fire. Engine 51-2 and Tanker 51-5 made the response and, hours.
Clayton Handles RIT
Just past midnight on July 3, 2017, Claymont Ladder 13 was dispatched into Delaware County for an RIT assignment in the area of Chichester/Hewes Avenue for a building fire. Police were on scene and reported fire through the roof of a commercial property. Ladder 13, with six under the direction of Assistant Chief Haley, arrived third-due and took a position on the Alpha/Bravo corner. RIT was set up on side Alpha, but command quickly reassigned the ladder as second-due special. Crews placed ground ladders, forced entry and checked on extension. The fire was held to the cockloft area before being placed under control. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
One of Those Busy Days On July 2, 2017, Christiana Fire Company assisted neighboring companies on two working house fires. The first occurred at approximately 0900 in the Summit Pond Development in the Volunteer Hose of Middletown’s district. Ladder 12 was initially dispatched to cover Station 27, but while en route to the cover, was redirected to the fire scene. L12 operated for 90 minutes. At 1255, Christiana was dispatched for an engine and ladder assist for the Delaware City Fire Company for a house fire on Red Lion Road. Squad 6 arrived and found a fire on the outside of a garage attached to a two-story house. E12, L12, Delaware City units and other mutual aid companies arrived and went in service. The fire had extended into the attic area of the garage. Chief Poppe of DCFC had command. Christiana units operated for one hour. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Minquadale Responds to Car Fire Minquadale Station 22 was dispatched to a reported vehicle fire in the DMV parking lot on Hessler Boulevard. Unit 223 responded with four and arrived to find flames coming from the engine compartment of an SUV. The crew stretched the 150-feet of 1-3/4 inch attack line and extinguished the fire. Rescue Engine 28 from Wilmington Manor assisted with extinguishment. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
October 2017
Sussex Highway MVC
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 13
On August 23, 2017, Greenwood Station 78 was alerted for an MVC on Sussex Highway. Units responding were A and B-78, 78Command, Quint 78, 78-4, Traffic Control 78, Sussex County Paramedics, 78 and 72 Fire Police, and DSP5. - Submitted by Mark B. Anderson
Volunteer Hose Makes Good Stop Volunteer Hose responded to a vehicle fire with exposure problems in the Parkside development on August 16, 2017. First units arrived to find a piece of construction equipment on fire next to a house under construction. No injuries were reported, the fire was extinguished and the situation was placed under control. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by A. Hoff
Page 14, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 15
1 Fatality, 1 FF Injured in Cheswold Fire
Late in the evening of June 25, 2017, Cheswold firefighters had just returned from a CPR call when a motorist stopped in front of the station to report a house fire down the street. Members quickly staffed Engine 43-3 and Rescue 43 and responded, while Kent Center dispatched the assignment of Cheswold, Dover (ladder and engine), and Leipsic (rescue and engine). Engine 43-3 responded to the scene while Rescue 43 dropped a supply line from Station 43. Command 43 (Cerutti) arrived to find fire showing from the second floor of a five-unit apartment building and bystanders reporting a subject trapped inside. The two initial crews stretched two handlines and extinguished the fire. A crew from Leipsic located one deceased occupant. Dover vented the roof and performed additional searches in the neighboring apartments. One firefighter from Dover was taken to the hospital. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
Golf Cart Fire On July 6, 2017, Indian River was alerted for a golf cart fire on East Harbor Drive in White House Beach. Engine 80-3 arrived with a fully involved golf cart and placed an attack line in service. Other responding units included Engine 80-1 and Tanker 80, which were cancelled. - Submitted by Derrick Pry
Page 16, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Trailer Fire in Christiana On July 14, 2017, with a significant storm going through the area, a box was transmitted for a trailer on fire in the Murray Manor Trailer Park. Christiana Engine 12 and Ladder 12 were assigned. Companies arrived to find fire showing. Companies worked to extinguish a roof fire. All searches were negative. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Shed Fire with Exposures On August 22, 2017, Marydel, Hartly and Camden-Wyoming fire companies were alerted for a report of a structure fire. Engine 56-1, Tanker 56 and A-56 made the response to find a 15-x 30-foot storage shed with heavy smoke showing from all sides. Officer 56-17 established command. Engines 56 and 51 found numerous exposures to the fire building including large above-ground propane tanks. Engine 56 deployed an attack line assisted by Engine 51, and the fire was rapidly extinguished and scene was placed under control by Tower Road command. Command 56 requested DNREC to the scene for an unknown leaking substance. Upon assessment the materials were found to be safe. Caroline County Station 700 (Goldsboro) covered. - Story by Mike Bredin
Fire at Atlantic Sands Hotel A little before midnight on July 31, 2017, the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a reported fire at the Atlantic Sands Hotel on N. Boardwalk. The call was originally reported as a fire in the basement in the kitchen. Firefighters, police and Atlantic Sands security personal evacuated the hotel of all guests. The actual fire was in the basement in a dryer and was extinguished by the sprinkler system. Lewes, Bethany Beach and Sussex County EMS also responded, while Indian River and Milton covered. Firefighters remained on the scene for a couple of hours removing smoke and water. - Submitted by Warren Jones
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 17
Page 18, Delaware Fire Service News
Cover Story
Brandywine River Water Rescue
On August 3, 2017, Wilmington firefighters assigned to Squad 4-D Platoon were returning from a run when they noticed an adult male in the middle of the Brandywine River in distress. Members notified the regional dispatch center and requested a water rescue response. Members of Squad 4 (Wilmington’s technical rescue unit) donned water rescue suits and prepared to make contact with the subject in the river. Additional resources arrived and deployed ropes and rigging. It took rescuers approximately 20 minutes to safely bring the male subject to shore. He was transported to Wilmington Hospital for evaluation. - Submitted by James Jobes, photos by John Randolph
October 2017
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 19
Interstate 95 MVC On July 26, 2017, Five Points Stations 17 and 22 were alerted for an MVC with injuries on Interstate 95 southbound at Frawley Stadium. A17 and Squad 17 arrived to find a two-vehicle crash just at the top of the southbound on-ramp. A17 reported multiple injuries and requested additional ambulances. In addition to A22, PA-1 and PA-6 responded. Several patients were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
CHC Handles Route 1 Rollover In July, the Citizens’ Hose Company responded to a MVC with rollover on northbound Route 1 in Smyrna. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Page 20, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
1 Fatality in Wilmington MVC On July 27, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the D Platoon were dispatched to the 599 block of S. Market Street for an MVC with entrapment between a small SUV and a box truck. Members of Squad 4 initiated an extrication of the trapped people, who were freed from the debris within 14 minutes. The driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene by New Castle County Paramedics. The passenger from the SUV was airlifted by Delaware State Police Trooper 4 to Christiana Hospital in critical condition. - Submitted by James R Jobes
Entrapment on Hazlettville Road
On August 20, 2017, the Dover Fire Department was alerted for an MVC with reported subjects trapped on the 3800 block of Hazlettville Road. E2 and Duty Officer Michael O’Connor, were first on scene to find a full-sized pickup into the side of a 53-foot trailer that was backing into a driveway. The driver of the pickup was heavily entrapped mid-trailer, with the pickup wedged under the trailer almost to the B post. The vehicle was stabilized and extrication began. ALS and BLS gained access to start rendering care. The trailer was secured and the tractor was disconnected and moved. The trailer was then raised to relieve pressure on the pick-up. Crews began to remove the roof from the pickup truck. After several minutes, it was determined that the vehicle would have to be winched out from under the truck to complete extrication. Once crews freed the the pickup, crews worked another 12 minutes to free the subject from the vehicle after a dash roll. The subject was packaged for flight and taken to the LZ, and transferred to Trooper 4. Crews from Cheswold and Little Creek stood by. - Submitted by Michael J. O’Connor, Jr.
Indian River Responds to MVC Early on July 5, 2017, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for an two-vehicle MVC on John J. Williams Highway near the Wawa. It was reported there was heavy damage to both vehicles, an occupant entrapment, and a significant debris field. Units included Engine 80-1 from the Long Neck facility, Ladder 80 and Utility 80 from the Oak Orchard facility, as well as the Delaware State Fire Police. Additional resources were requested from the Millsboro for an EMS unit, the Sussex County Paramedics, and DELDOT. - Submitted by Steven Deery, Jr.
Busy Day for Claymont During the evening rush, Claymont Fire Company was dispatched to I-95 north at Harvey Road for a multi-car MVC. Claymont OIC Deputy Hassel advised of negative entrapment and only minor injuries. On the day, professional career staff handled 13 medical emergencies while the fire side handled seven runs. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Page 22, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
MVC in Farmington
Farmington Fire Company along with Ambulances 78 and 50 responded to a two-vehicle MVC at Greenwood and Nine Foot Roads. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Route 13 MVC On August 24, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company responded to an MVC at the intersection of Route 13 and Hopkins Cemetery Road. Subjects involved received minor injuries. The officer in charge was 3rd Assistant Chief Dean Helsel. - Submitted by Earl Brode
Hartly Tractor Rollover On July 5, 2017, Hartly Fire Company responded to an MVC with rollovers involving a tractor and pickup on Sudlersville Road. - Submitted by James Read
Multi Vehicle MVC July 19, 2017, Stations 4 and 24, 26, 27 and 29 were alerted to a MVC on southbound Route 1 just south of the 299 exit, with a report of multiple vehicles involved. Units responded to the scene and found three cars and a tractor-trailer involved. The tandem trailer was on its side with the second trailer and cab still upright, however there was a fuel leak coming from the cab, as well as a large spill on the roadway. Hazmat 30 was called and crews worked diligently in the heat to assess the injured and administer care. Three patients were transported to local hospitals, while crews remained on scene to assist in the cleanup of the roadway. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray
Page 24, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Fire Here, CO Call There On July 13, 2017, Five Points Ladder and Engine 17 were alerted to assist Cranston Heights and other area companies to a structure fire at the McDonalds on Kirkwood Highway. Units on scene investigated and found a problem with a fryer in the kitchen. As 17 units cleared, they were redirected to a carbon monoxide alarm at the Cokesbury Village Retirement Center. Rescue Engine 19 was also alerted. Crews from 19 and 17 checked CO levels and found high readings on multiple floors. Other units cleared the fire at McDonald’s and also responded. Service personnel from Delmarva Power arrived on scene and determined problems with water heating equipment. The building was ventilated and turned over to Delmarva and building management. Assistant Chief Terry Clark had command. Crews wish to thank the Cokesbury staff for providing refreshments to the firefighters and first responders at the scene. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Gasoline Spill on the Philadelphia Pike On July 20, 2017, the Claymont Fire Company was dispatched to Philadelphia Pike for a report of a gasoline spill. The first arriving units found a tank truck pumping gasoline from an underground storage tank at an automotive service center. The truck was actively leaking gasoline. Responding firefighters located the operator of the vehicle and the leak was quickly stopped. Crews from both Claymont and Brandywine-Hundred work to keep additional product from running into the sewer system. It was determined that approximately 600 gallons of gasoline leaked, with some entering the storm water system. Booms were used to contain product and the surrounding area was checked to ensure the area was safe. The New Castle County OEM utilized the Delaware Emergency Notification System to alert approximately 275 residences in the area. No evacuations or further actions were required by the residents. One firefighter from the Belvedere Fire Company was transported by ambulance to Wilmington Hospital suffering from a heatrelated illness. Personnel and units from the following organizations
also responded: the Delaware State Police, DELDOT, New Castle County Special Services, Saint Francis EMS Rehab Unit, and the Delaware DNREC. The Coast Guard was made aware of the incident but did not respond. Approximately 50 firefighters, hazmat technicians, and other emergency personnel responded. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Specialized Rescue at the Port of Wilmington On August 9, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the C Platoon were alerted for a medical emergency on Berth Road, Port of Wilmington. Units arrived to find an adult male on a docked barge experiencing a medical issue. St. Francis EMS and NCC Paramedics began assessing and stabilizing the patient, while members from Squad 4 and Engine 2 began rigging for patient transfer to the ground. Crews packaged the patient and lowered him to the ground utilizing an aerial ladder. The patient was transported to Wilmington Hospital. The Incident Commander was Battalion Chief Michael Schaal. Approximately 15 fire and EMS personnel responded to the incident. The following units also responded: Tower and Battalion 2. - Submitted by Andrew J.E. Cavanaugh
Well, I Thought it was Dynamite! On August 23, 2017, New Castle County 911 received a call from the resident on Woodlawn Avenue, stating they found a stick of dynamite in their garage. The Wilmington Police Department, along with the Wilmington firefighters on the A Platoon, were dispatched to the single-family residence. Fire units staged in the
area while the police explosive ordnance unit determined it to be M-80 firecracker and removed it for detonation. The incident temporarily closed parts of Woodlawn Avenue to pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The incident commander was Battalion Chief Timothy Perkins. - Submitted by James R. Jobes
Page 26, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Wilmington Assists with High Angle Rescue
On July 19, 2017, Wilmington firefighters on the B Platoon were alerted to assist the Talleyville Fire Company with a high angle rescue on Monchanin Road. Talleyville was initially dispatched for an person injured in a fall. The Talleyville BLS crew arrived to find an adult female inside an old stone water tower, near the top, injured from falling off a ladder. The patient was assessed by the medical crews and additional resources were requested, adding Wilmington Fire Department Ladder 2 and Squad 4 as part of the high angle county response. Upon arrival of the Wilmington units, crews teamed up with rescuers from Talleyville to prepare the patient for
a rescue utilizing the Delaware State Police Aviation Unit Trooper 4. The crews stabilized and packaged the patient for a raise-and-lower operation using Trooper 4. The patient was flown from the tower to a nearby field were the patient was transferred to waiting ground units. The patient was transported to the Wilmington Hospital by Talleyville. The incident commander was Talleyville Fire Company Chief Tom Looney. Also responding were the New Castle County High Angle Confined Space Rescue (HACSR) team and New Castle County Paramedics. - Submitted by James R. Jobes
Abandoned Well, Lucky Lady On July 30, 2017, Five Points Station 17 was alerted to respond to a citizen’s assist call in the Elmhurst section of the district. Squad 17 arrived and found that an elderly woman was cutting her grass when her foot fell through an opening in the ground. The hole appeared to be several feet deep. Squad 17 members began to open the hole to investigate and found what looked to be an abandoned well about 25-feet deep and three-feet around. The New Castle County building inspector was notified and the hole was cordoned off. It is believed there are several other homes in the area that may have these abandoned wells. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Harrington Gas Leak On July 8, 2017, the Harrington Fire Company was dispatched for a gas leak in the 200 Block of Commerce Street. Fire Chief Robbie Brode was the first to arrive and reported a natural gas line had been struck while the homeowner was digging in the back yard. Chief Brode requested that a portion of Commerce Street be shut down. Unit 50-4 was ordered to drop a five-inch supply line from the hydrant at the corner of Commerce and West Streets, while 50-1 was ordered to stage at the hydrant. Chesapeake Utilities arrived and secured the leak. - Submitted by Earl K. Brode
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 27
4 Injured in Dover MVC into Building
On August 13, 2017, the Kent County Special Operations Team (Cheswold, Leipsic, and Hartly) were dispatched to assist Dover with a vehicle into a structure. A minivan struck the old McKinney’s Transmission building and punched a hole in the wall. The team arrived, assessed the structure and determined that minor shoring was required before removing the vehicle without causing additional structural damage. Dover Deputy Chief Rhodes had command and various EMS agencies transported four patients from the scene. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
Bear MVC, HazMat Situation Early on July 22, 2017, the Christiana Fire Company was dispatched to the BP Gas Station on Pulaski Highway in Bear for an MVC. Units arrived to find a pickup had struck the propane filling assembly on a 1,000-gallon propane tank, destroying it and leaving propane leaking from one of the pipes. There was a large propane vapor cloud enveloping the westbound lanes of Pulaski Highway. The two occupants of the pickup truck exited the vehicle and were located across Pulaski Highway in a parking lot. Both were injured and transported to Christiana Hospital. Engine 12 and Ladder 12 evacuated the BP station and attached coffee shop, established a water supply and stretched precautionary lines. Pulaski Highway was closed in both directions. DNREC and the propane vendor were contacted. Command requested two additional engines. Quint 7 and
Engine 23 responded, as did RE12. Air monitoring indicated a high level of propane on the south side of Pulaski Highway in the area of the Fox Run Shopping Center. All hazardous areas were isolated while crews awaited the arrival of the propane vendor, who secured the leak on arrival. An estimated 400 gallons of propane leaked. Command placed the incident under control. Responding were: E12, RE12, L12, A6, B6, Command 6, Command 12, Quint 7, E23, NCCPD, DSP and DNREC. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Page 28, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association News
Meeting Dates: The following dates have been selected for the Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Meetings in 2017-2018. Fall Meeting: Saturday and Sunday October 14 to 15, 2017: Location Hacks Point Fire Company, Earleville, MD. Saturday Workshop with Breakfast Meeting Sunday morning followed by the meeting, which is scheduled to be completed by noon. Spring Meeting: Saturday and Sunday April 7 to 8, 2018: Location in the Emmitsburg, MD area. Presidents Council Meeting on Saturday with Spring Association Breakfast Meeting on Sunday. Target adjournment is noon Sunday 117th Annual Convention: Wednesday, August 1 to Saturday, August 4. Presidents Council Meeting Friday August 3 at Fairplay, MD (Hagerstown area). More information will be forthcoming on www.CVVFA.org. New President Sworn In: Hoby Howell of Maryland was installed as President along with Allen Baldwin as 1st Vice-President and Rich Brunner as 2nd Vice-President. Dr. Candice McDonald was elected
Director becoming the first officer or director elected from the state of Ohio. Come see us in Nashville at Firehouse Expo October 18 to 21, 2017: The ResponderSafety team will be on the show floor and Jack Sullivan, Director of Training, will have a classroom presentation. How to Join: Go to www.cvvfa.org. Join on line or download and application. Dues are $5 per year. We Need Your Help: The CVVFA wants to communicate with all our members. We have many members who have not supplied us with an e-mail address. If you know a member who is NOT receiving this newsletter let us know and send along their e-mail address and we will add them to our list. Haven’t attended a meeting lately? Membership involvement in running our association and staffing our national programs is a priority. A small handful of folks can’t do it all. Want to help? We have a spot for you. Get in touch with one of the Officers or Directors. Contact information is at www.CVVFA.org.
116th CVVFA Convention in McConnellsburg PA
(Left to right): Todd Leiss PA Turnpike Incident Manager, Steve Austin, Congressman Bill Shuster Chairman of the US House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and CVVFA President Bill Keller met to discuss the CVVFA ResponderSafety Program and the Federal Highway Administration at the CVVFA Annual Picnic in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania.
Jerry Daniels of the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company receives the Joe Bukowski Award for his dedication to Protecting emergency responders on the highway. The award is presented in the memory of past-President Joe Bukowski a founder of the Emergency Responder Safety Institute. Steve Heefner presented the award.
Evan Davis of the IAFC speaks as Dave Finger NVFC (center) looks on along with Sean Carroll of CFSI. These men are some of the top fire service lobbyists in Washington and are all CVVFA members.
Aetna “old guys” at CVVFA Parade Line Up. (Left to right): Harry ‘Griff’ Balthis, Steve Austin, David Clark, Ray Streets and Jerry Daniels. Aetna won a number of awards at the parade.
Page 30, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
TRAINING
RA Training at UD
On August 22, 2017, a training class for new RAs at UD was held as part of a joint effort by Aetna HHL, the State Fire Marshal Office, UD EHS and the Delaware State Fire School. - DFSN photos by Dave Wilson
Minquadale Winch Training Minquadale winch training during Wednesday Night Duty Crew. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 31
TRAINING
Farmington Trains Farmington Fire Company held training on its new Rescue Engine. - Submitted by Tom Williams
Minquadale Juniors on the Line Minquadale Junior Firefighters take advantage of the weather to flow a little water on Sunday afternoon. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
Page 34, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
SCEMS
SCEMS Hosts Grand Opening of New Station
On May 5, 2017, Sussex County Emergency Medical Services placed into service its newest station, which will house Medic 104 and the East District Supervisor, EMS 100. The station services the Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Lewes, Milton and Angola areas. The station is consistently the busiest in the county and is utilized regularly for training students and new employees. The move allows for more response options with less impact on traffic flow, which will assist in decreasing response times. The new station features updated offices, bunkrooms, living quarters, exercise room, and a combination kitchen/conference room. The 5,220-square foot station
is traditional wood frame construction built to the county hurricane standard to sustain winds of 120 mph. Division Manager Robert Schoonover project manager stated that the building was designed to meet the future growth of the community, while blending in with the neighborhood. The grand opening event was July 12, 2017, with members of county council, state representatives, Lewes Fire Department, and neighbors in attendance for the ribbon cutting. The station will continue to be dedicated to Paramedic Stephanie L. Callaway who was killed in the line of duty. - Submitted by Parker Shandrowsky
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 35
SCEMS
SCEMS Announces Promotions
Sussex County EMS is pleased to announce the following promotions. Cody Grosch has been promoted to the rank of Paramedic 2. A Paramedic 2 has demonstrated strong clinical and operational skills. Candace Ernst and Ben Lewis have been promoted to the rank of Paramedic 1. A Paramedic 1 has successfully completed the out of state process and demonstrated the ability to perform as a single medic if needed. SCEMS congratulates those above on their promotions and wishes them the best of luck in their new roles. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
Page 36, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
SCEMS
Sussex County EMS and Nanticoke Health Services Receive AHA Mission Lifeline EM Silver Award Members of Sussex County Emergency Medical Services joined with representatives of Nanticoke Health Services on Tuesday, August 22, 2017, to announce that the organizations have earned the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Silver Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients who experience severe heart attacks. The designation is national recognition of how well a community can deliver its continuum of care, from first responders providing initial treatment to the patient receiving life-saving, timely care at a medical facility. Prehospital personnel are the first providers of care to patients suffering from cardiac emergencies, and the role EMS plays from the beginning is critical. “Sussex County EMS, along with Nanticoke Health Services, is dedicated to making our service among the best in the country, and the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline award program is helping us accomplish that by implementing processes for improving systems of care with the goal of improving the quality of care for all cardiac patients,” said Rob Mauch, manager of quality and standards for Sussex County EMS. “We are pleased to be recognized for our dedication and achievements in emergency medical care for all cardiac patients.” Mission: Lifeline recognizes the team effort that occurs during any cardiac event, and how working together in the field and at the hospi-
tal to gather accurate information and provide critical care can improve a patient's chances of survival. “EMTs and paramedics play a vital part in the system of care for those who have heart attacks,” said James Jollis, M.D., chair of the AHA’s Mission: Lifeline Advisory Working Group. “Since they often are the first medical point of contact, they can shave precious minutes of life-saving treatment time by activating the emergency response system that alerts hos-
pitals. We applaud Sussex County EMS and Nanticoke Hospital for achieving this award that shows they meet evidence-based guidelines in the treatment of people who have severe heart attacks.” During a suspected cardiac event, EMS agencies perform 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs), which measure the electrical activity of the heart and can help determine if a heart
attack has occurred. They also follow protocols derived from American Heart Association/ American College of Cardiology guidelines. These correct tools, training, and practices allow EMS providers to rapidly identify suspected heart attack patients, promptly notify the medical center, and trigger an early response from the awaiting hospital personnel. Agencies that receive the Mission: Lifeline Silver award have demonstrated at least 75 percent compliance for each required achievement measure for one year. For Sussex County EMS, the compliance rate is 90 percent to 98 percent on the various measures. “Since EMS is able to do an initial diagnosis for heart attacks in the field, they are able to make the decision to have the hospital team called in and ready upon the arrival of the patient by ambulance verses waiting for the patient to arrive to make that initial diagnoses. This saves valuable time in the treatment process, and every minute matters,” said Nanticoke Health Services Director of Cardiology Peter Rosen. “For example, if you call 911 when you think you are having a heart attack, EMS staff often reach you and begin diagnosis within just a few minutes. However, if it takes you 15 to 20 minutes to drive to the hospital, you have now delayed your treatment by that drive time. If you believe you are having a heart attack, calling 911 is safer and saves time. Saving that 10 to 15 minutes can mean the difference between life and death for a patient.” - Submitted by Robert Mauch
SCEMS Attends Milford Place Assisted Living Senior Prom
SCEMS was invited to attend the Senior Prom at Milford Place Assisted Living in recognition of Senior Citizen’s Day. Six members of SCEMS accepted the invitation and arrived in dress uniform to serve as dance partners or companions for the evening. It was hard
to determine who was enjoying the evening more, the residents or the representatives of SCEMS, but everyone had a great time. SCEMS appreciated the opportunity to interact with the residents and looks forward to future events. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
SCEMS Participates in Sussex Safe Kids Day Sussex County EMS participated in the annual Sussex Safe Kids Day hosted by Lowe’s in Lewes. The event is geared to educate children in many areas of safety with numerous emergency service agencies, hospitals and others represented. Children were provided information, activities and demonstrations on water, electric, fire safety, and hands-only CPR. There was a police K9 demonstration in addition to tours of the Delaware State Police, LifeNet helicopters, and engines and ladder trucks from Lewes and Rehoboth Beach Fire Departments. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 37
NCC*EMS
NCC-EMS Staff Retirement: Karl E. Hitchens
On August 1, 2017, Senior Lieutenant Karl E. Hitchens Medical Responder portions of several New Castle County retired from New Castle County EMS after over 35 years of Police Recruit Academies. He was one of the original personservice. nel from the Department of Public Safety, which developed Senior Lieutenant Karl E. Hitchens was initially hired as an the “Heroin Alert� program, which ultimately led to an inviEmergency Call Operator in the Emergency Communications tation for him to testify before the United States Senate. Division in October 1981. He was promoted to Emergency His official commendations include a Certification of Communications Dispatcher in April 1984. Appreciation, September 1992 Unit Letter of Commendation In February 1988 he was promoted to Ambulance Medical for his contribution to the response to an MVC in Delaware Technician in the Emergency Medical Services Division and City that involved a 1-1/2 hour extrication of a patient from enrolled in the Medical Center of Delaware Paramedic an overturned dump truck, and Commendation of Merit in Training Program. He graduated paramedic training in June 2005 for his response to a building fire at the Delaware November 1988 and was promoted to Paramedic. He Auto Court Motel. S/Lt. Hitchens also received a Resolution achieved certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic in April 1991. from the Greenwich (NJ) Township Council in 2001 for his participation In February 1998 he was promoted to the rank of EMS Lieutenant, and to in a Heroin Alert presentation in their jurisdiction. his current rank in March 2004. The Emergency Medical Services Division offers its best wishes to S/Lt. Hitchens attended Delaware Technical and Community College. S/Lt. Hitchens on his retirement from county service. He achieved certifications as both a Pre-hospital Trauma Life Support - Submitted by New Castle County EMS (PHTLS) Instructor and CPR Instructor, and has instructed the Emergency
NCC-EMS Staff Retirement: Martha L. Russ
On August 31, 2017, Lieutenant Martha L. Russ retired moted to her current rank in January 2014 and has held assignfrom New Castle County after over 21 years of service. ments as Commander, Platoon IV and Commander, Platoon II. Lieutenant Russ was appointed to the Emergency Medical Her final assignment was Executive Officer, Operations Services Division as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Branch. in April 1996. She is a graduate of the University of South Lieutenant Russ received several official commendations Florida, where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass including several Distinguished Unit Citations (3 awards), a Communications. She attended the Christiana Care Health Letter of Commendation and Pre-hospital Sudden Cardiac System Paramedic Training Program and was subsequently Arrest Save Citation. Her Distinguished Unit Citations include promoted to Paramedic in September 1997. She was promoted recognition of her response to the 1996 building fire at the to the rank of Paramedic First Class in March 2004 with the Beaver Brook Apartments that resulted in ten patients - three of implementation of the EMS Career Development Plan, and to whom were in cardiac arrest when they were transferred to the the rank of Paramedic Corporal in December 2004. on scene EMS personnel. The response to the Beaver Brook Lieutenant Russ participated in programs such as Students Apartments also resulted in a tribute from the Delaware House Learn About Mortality (SLAM), a crash injury prevention program, in addi- of Representatives. tion to CPR instruction and activity as an Assistant Recruiter. The Emergency Medical Services Division offers its thanks to Lt. Russ Lieutenant Ross was promoted to the rank of Paramedic Sergeant in for her service to New Castle County, and extends its best wishes on her December 2009 where she served as an EMS field supervisor. She was pro- retirement. - Submitted by New Castle County EMS
Page 38, Delaware Fire Service News
Baltimore City (MD) firefighters responded to Ramsay Street for a report heavy fire venting from a two-story, vacant dwelling at the end of the row on Ramsay Street. Truck 23’s crew worked to open the entryway on the Alpha side. which consisted of a plywood layer, a security gate and the main door. Engine 8’s crew made the second floor and quickly knocked the bulk of the fire down. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
October 2017
On the Road in Baltimore
Baltimore County (MD firefighters responded to a fire in a vacant McDonald’s, which broke out in Woodland (MD) on Security Boulevard. Baltimore County fire companies used ladder pipes and big lines to bring this fire under control. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Page 40, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Campus Fire Safety Program Expanded
This year, the Fire School provided Campus Fire Safety Training to resident assistants of Wesley College, Delaware State University and Goldey-Beacom College, and assisted with the program at the University of Delaware. Approximately 350 students attended and received training on fire extinguishers, escape planning, sprinklers, kitchen fire safety and infectious disease control. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Delaware State Fire School’s “Camp Fury” a Success Camp Fury was held the weekend of August 19 to 20, 2017. Targeted at females 13 to 17, 50 young ladies were exposed to various opportunities within emergency services. Interactive lessons were featured by the all-female staff. As the Delaware State Fire School’s Camp Fury project concluded, we were fortunate to have some honored guests. Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, spoke to the campers over lunch, along with Corporal Jen Potocki from the Delaware State Police Aviation Section. The afternoon before the graduation ceremony, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester, and General Carol Timmons from the Delaware Air National Guard spoke to the campers before participating in the ceremonies. Our thanks for coming to speak to these young women and helping to show that anything is possible! - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 41
Page 42, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
Salisbury Christian Camp Visits DSFS
On August 17, 2017, approximately 45 children from Salisbury Christian School’s Summer Camp visited the Fire School for a tour. Children learned about Stop, Drop and Roll; fire behavior, emergency calling; and fire engines. Sussex County Paramedics assisted with the program discussing the role of the paramedic and CPR. A special guest for the day was the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office Arson Dog Tanya. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
DSFS Instructors Train on New Vehicle Fire Prop On August 2, 2017, instructors from Sussex County, who will be using the new Vehicle Fire Prop at the Sussex Division, came together to train on the new equipment. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
Sparky Visits the Sharptown Firemen’s Carnival The Sharptown (MD) Fire Company invited the Delaware State Fire School to attend its annual carnival and share fire safety information with visitors. This is the 91st year for the carnival and it is one of the largest tourist attractions in Central Delmarva. Fire School staff answered questions and passed out information. Sparky roamed the grounds with Sharptown Fire Prevention Queens. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 43
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS Introduces Fire Prevention Week 2017 at State Fair
The 97th Delaware State Fair ran from July 20 through July 29, 2017. The Delaware State Fire School had a booth at the fair for the entire event to introduce this year’s Fire Prevention Week Theme of “Every Second Counts, Plan Two Ways Out.” DSFS staff greeted visitors at their booth and discussed smoke alarms and home escape plans, answered questions and circulated Fire Prevention Week materials. The Fire School also participated in the nightly parade with Sparky and Firefighter Ed U. Cator riding on a float displaying banners for Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday there was a special guest, as Miss Delaware Teen Emily McPherson rode along greeting the crowds. - Submitted by Michael Lowe, DSFS
(Above) Jacob and Andrew Dzuriak, of Middletown (DE), with Instructor Jamie Bethard.
Page 44, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service in Action
any Volunteer Fire Comp ent , the Indian River On August 8, 2017 ehicle MVC with rollover and entrapm o-v ng Creek Estates. was alerted for a tw Highway near Herri Jr. , on John J. Williams ery De ven Ste by d - Submitte
July 9, 2017, Five Po ints Ladder 17 was Wilmington Fire De alerted to cover partment Sta working structure fire tion 1 while they were out on a on N. Broom Street . - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
On July 12, 2017, the Christiana Fire Company, the NCC HazMat-Decon Team, and BLS/ALS units were dispatched to Siemen’s in the Glasgow Business Community for a hazmat incident. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait a mobile home On June 2, 2017, Box 1223 was transmitted for r Park. Traile ford Water the in Court nne Adria on fire on - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Just after midnight on July 9, 2017, Box 1810 was transmitted for an MVC with a report of a vehicle into a commercial building, the Brandywine Valley SPCA, and on fire with entrapment. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
On July 24, 2017, Volunt eer Hose responded to a MVC with a rollover at Bunke r Hill Road and Sandhi ll Drive. - Submitted by Tim Mu rray, photo by B. Bowma n
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 45
Delaware Fire Service in Action
e, from Christiana Fir ng, with mutual aid Recently, Aetna alo Mill Creek Stations 2 and 21, Singerly and ntague Road the unit block of Mo were dispatched to for a residential fire. in Beaulieu ve Wilson - DFSN photo by Da
On June 14, 2017, the Chris to Songsmith Drive tiana Fire Company was dispatched and Cymbal Court in Taylortown for an MVC. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
On July 6, 2017, Engine 12 and Ladder 12 were alerted to an outside fire at the Saint Andrews Townhouses. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait Very early on July 28, 2017, the Harrington Fire a train on Company was dispatched to an MVC involving Road. South DuPont Highway in the area of Corn Crib - Submitted by Earl K. Brode
Page 46, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service in Action
ng with , Marydel Fire, alo On August 17, 2017 rted for an MVC with rollover , were ale Rescue Company 51 upants still inside the vehicle. with two occ ry by Jason Mills Bredin, photo and sto - Submitted by Mike
On August 10, 2017, Christiana Rescue En gine 12, La and Ambulances A6 and B6 responded to dder 12, an MVC with a car - Submitted by Kevin on fire. Cowperthwait
On July 25, 2017, Indian River along with local EMS and Sussex County Paramedics were dispatched to Pot Nets Road for an MVC with rollover. - Submitted by Derrick Pry On August 1, 2017, Minquadale responded to a residential fire in Wilmington Manor’s local. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
Minquadale responded to assist Holloway Terrace on an outside fire underneath the Delaware Memorial Bridge. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
On August 28, 2017, the Harrington Fire Comp any responded to an MVC in the 500 Block of Jackson Ditch Road. - Submitted by Earl Bro de
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 47
Delaware Fire Service in Action
On the evening of July 12, 2017, Stations 1 and 27 responded to an MVC with the report of an entrapment on Middletown-Warwick and Levels Roads. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by Amy Murray On August 1, 2017, a box alarm was transmitted for smoke coming from a house in the Birchwood Park development off Christiana Road. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
In June and Clayton , the Citizens’ Hose Com Fire Compa ny responde pany on Dupont d to a MVC Parkway in Sm - DFSN phot o by Gene Sh yrna. aner
On August 9, 2017, Rescue Engine 12 was dispatched to a MVC with people trapped on Route 1 south. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
Page 48, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Up Close & Personal
Chief Engineer Don Mitchell conducted pump testing of all Rehoboth Beach apparatus in June 2017. - DFSN photo by Chuck Snyder
Ambulance 64 crew members after an MVC in Smyrna. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
Mobile home fire on June 2, 2017, on Adrianne Court in the Waterford Trailer Park. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
On August 13, 2017, the Kent County Special Operations Team (Cheswold, Leipsic, and Hartly) were dispatched to assist Dover with a vehicle into a structure. - Submitted by Tucker Dempsey
In June, the Citizens’ Hose Company and Clayton Fire Company responded to a MVC on Dupont Parkway in Smyrna. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
On July 19, 2017, Wilmington andTalleyville crews worked a high-angle rescue of a woman in an old stone water tower, utilizing Trooper 4 for a raise-and-lower operation. - Submitted by James Jobes
Members of Engine 12 and Ladder 12 after a fire at the Saint Andrews Townhouses on July 6, 2017. Companies operated for three hours. - Submitted by Kevin Cowperthwait
A member of Clayton Fire Company’s Rescue 45 at a Dupont Highway MVC. - DFSN photo by Gene Shaner
October 2017
Obituaries
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 49
Greenwood’s Clayton C. Yocum, Sr. Clayton C. Yocum Sr., passed away on Saturday, August 5, 2017, at Christiana Hospital. He was 73. Mr. Yocum was born in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, to the late John C. and Carolyn Yocum. Clay served his country proudly in the United States National Guard. During his years of service he received a medal for Service to the Community. Clay worked as a maintenance mechanic from 1960-1987. Clay not only had a deep love for all of his family and would do anything for them but he loved helping people. His first love was football and the fire company. Clay loved everything football especially the Eagles; semi-pro football, where he was elected into the Hall of Fame; Woodbridge Pop Warner, where he filmed all the games for many years and where he had many “adopted” grandkids. The fire service was his second home, where he spent much of his time helping and improving how the fire service runs, operates and seeing fellow firefighters succeed. Even though these two things were his first love, his true love was his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He taught them all about cars and how to work on them. Clay loved McDonald’s and taking his grand and great-grand kids there to eat and fellowship. He also was a joker and would tell anyone a joke who would listen, and if he heard a joke he would never forget it. Clayton will be sadly missed by all. Mr. Yocum belonged to the Greenwood Volunteer Fire Company where he was a member for 37 years, Greenwood Lions Club for almost 18 years, Henlopen Pop Warner, Woodbridge Pop Warner, Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association, Sussex County Firemen’s Association, Sussex County Fire Police Association, Delmarva Firemen’s Association, at one time or another he was an officer or past-President of all of these organizations. He also was a faithful member of St Mary’s Episcopal Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Linda Sue Yocum, and Carolann G. Hill; brothers, Laurence Yocum, and Dale Yocum; Wallace Milligan, and James Hamilton whom he considered his sons. He is survived by his wife, Maureen Yocum; sons, John C. (Toni) Yocum II, and Clayton Butchie (Heather) Yocum Jr.; daughter, Tina M. (Albert) Haynes; sister, Patricia Ann (Joseph) Mahek; brother, Steven Yocum; 14 grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. - Submitted by Mark Anderson
Page 50, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Announcements PUBLIC INFORMATION IN A WMD/TERRORISM INCIDENT COURSE OFFERED
local organization or responder. Funding for travel, accommodations, and meals are not provided for this training opportunity. Please ensure you have a FEMA Student ID number when enrolling. To register for this class, go to www.dema.delaware.gov/services/calenThere are still seats available for MGT-318 PIO on September 19-20 dar/Trng_Cal.shtml from 0800 to 1630 at the Delaware State Fire School located at 1461 Chestnut Grove Road in Dover. AMERICAN LEGION AMBULANCE This course examines the role of public information in WMD/terrorPLANNING 5K ism incident management and provides practical training in crisis commuMark your calendar for 1830, Saturday, September 16, 2017, and nication techniques. In a WMD/terrorism incident, it is imperative that community leaders, incident managers, and public information officers walk or run Station 64’s 1st Annual Run Into the Night 5K at Smyrna are prepared to communicate with the public through the news media. The Municipal Park. This 5K will honor all first responders. All proceeds are role of public information in WMD/terrorism incident management, the earmarked for the purchase of CPR Automated Compression devices for information needs of the public in a crisis, and various means of effective- Station 64 ambulances. Station 64 is working with Tri Sports Events to coordinate this ly communicating through the news media are the focus of this course. To event. It is a Championship qualifying, timed race. Go to be discussed: The nature of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) inci- www.trisportevents.com to register. There will be a Kiddie Race starting at 1825. Awards will go to the top three finishers in all age classes. dents; Implications of WMD/terrorism incidents for the public information Participants will receive a Pro-Tech event shirt and refreshments will be available at the end of the 5K. function; Conducting emergency public information programs within the framework of the National Incident Management System and the National FELTON COMMUNITY FIRE COMPANY Response Plan; FALL OYSTER FEAST! Integration of the Joint Information Center with the Incident The Felton Community Fire Company will hold its Fall Oyster Feast Command/Unified Command System, various methods of communicating with news media and the associated advantages and disadvantages of on Saturday, October 21, 2017. THIS EVENT IS ADVANCE TICKET SALES ONLY and tickets MUST be purchased by October 16, 2017 by each; Message formulation and target audiences, frequently asked media 1700, to attend! The Event will be held at the Felton Fire Hall, 9 East Main Street in questions during a WMD/terrorism emergency; Constructing effective initial public statements, identifying and prepar- Felton. Doors open at 1700. Enjoy oyster stew, raw oysters, shrimp and other appetizers! Dinner — ing spokespersons and experts, planning and conducting press confersit down family style — will be served at 1800. It will include our tradiences; Developing an effective Crisis Communication Plan and Crisis tional Fireman’s Supper of fried oysters, chicken salad, dumplings, Communication Team, communication objectives and action steps for mashed potatoes, green beans and coleslaw. We also added hush puppies to the menu and will serve our homemade ice cream for dessert. each of the six phases of the crisis communication life cycle. Draft beer, wine, and sodas are included in ticket price of $40 per perThe training and course materials are provided at no cost to the state, son and a cash bar will be available. We will no longer have walk-up take-out orders. You can PRE-ORDER quarts ($15) or pints ($8) of chicken salad, by calling 302-284-9552. Please leave your name, number and your order. Pick-up pre-orders, October 21, 2017, between 1500 and 1800 at the fire hall. All pre-orders MUST be placed by October 16, 2017 by 1700. Tickets and details are available by calling 302-284-2100. All proceeds benefit the Felton Community Fire Company.
CRAB FEAST IN LITTLE CREEK On Saturday, October 7, 2017, from 1600 to 1900 the Little Creek Volunteer Fire Company will host a Crab Feast at their Social Hall located at 311 Main Street. Enjoy all you care to eat steamed crabs, steamed shrimp, local corn on the cob, hamburgers, hot dogs, bottomless draft beer and fountain soda. There will be a Chinese Auction and 50/50 raffles. To reserve your tickets please call Kaitlyn at 302-670-3504 or Donna at 302-424-1933. Adult tickets in advance are $40 each, children six to 12 years old are $20, and children five years and younger are free. Tickets sold at the door or on the day of the event are $45.
TRUCK CONVOY TO BENEFIT SPECIAL OLYMPICS DELAWARE OPEN TO FIRE COMPANIES On Saturday, October 7, 2017, truckers from all over the US will join the world’s largest truck convoy driving event for Special Olympics. In Delaware, the convoy will be escorted by law enforcement as they travel from the Delaware State Fairgrounds through parts of scenic southern Delaware. Upon the return to the fairground, a celebration festival will recognize the truckers and the support they give Special Olympics Delaware. Registration from 0730 - 0900. Live auction at 0915. Convoy departs at 1000. Lunch and festival from 1130 to 1300. Fire companies are encouraged to participate. For more information please contact 302-831-3482 or visit www.sode.org.
Page 52, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Seaford Softball Tournament Benefits DE Burn Camp
The Seaford Volunteer Fire Department held its 26th Annual Softball 20 it was finally figured out who would play for each of the top four Tournament on August 18, 2017. The festivities started with the Atlantic spots. Our winners were as follows: Upper Division: 1st Little Creek, 2nd Wilmington Fire, Emergency Solutions Old Timers Game, the Grotto Pizza Home Run 3rd Kennedyville, MD, 4th Clayton. Derby and the Regional Builders Inc. Corn Hole Tournament (held at Lower Division: 1st Georgetown, 2nd Bridgeville, 3rd Talleyville, Blades Fire Station). This year’s events were rushed due to extreme rain 4th Hockessin / Cranston Heights. and thunderstorms. The events did raise some money but not as much Upper Division MVP: Daniel Gentry, Little Creek. as in past years. All who attended had a good time. On August 19 brackLower Division MVP: Ryan Fletcher, Georgetown. et play started for the 21 Delaware and Eastern Shore (MD) fire departSportsmanship Award: Brad Speakman, Wilmington Fire. ments. The night ended just before midnight to figure out which teams - Submitted by Jack Wilson moved on to the playoffs for the Upper and Lower Divisions. On August
Minquadale Fire Extinguisher Training
- Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 53
Clayton July Member of the Month During the August meeting of the Clayton Fire Company, associate member Tammy Williams was named the Member of the Month for July 2017, by President Robert Faulkner and Fire Chief Wes Davis. Tammy attended seven fire alarms, eight miscellaneous functions, and a company meeting. Tammy had 17 points for the month and 61 for the year. Please join with the Clayton Fire Company in thanking Tammy for her dedication to the company. (Left to right): President Faulkner, MoM Tammy Williams, and Fire Chief Davis. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
Clayton June Member of the Month During the July meeting of the Clayton Fire Company Firefighter Amber Johnson was named the Member of the Month for June 2017, by President Robert Faulkner and Fire Chief Wes Davis. Amber attended 17 of 27 fire alarms, two miscellaneous functions, a uniform function, and a company meeting. Amber had 23 points for the month and 129 for the year. Please join with the Clayton Fire Company in thanking Amber for her dedication to the company. Amber was not able to attend the July meeting and was presented her certificate at the August meeting. (Left to right): President Faulkner, MoM Amber Johnson, and Fire Chief Davis. - Submitted by Kevin Wilson
Page 54, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Congratulations President Theodore ‘Ted’ Walius
Congratulations to President Theodore ‘Ted’ Walius from the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Co., for serving the fire service as DVFA’s President for the past year. - DFSN photos provided
American Legion Ambulance Station 64 Gets New Ambulance On May 24, 2017, members and special guests of American Legion Ambulance Station 64 conducted a housing ceremony for their new C64 unit. The ambulance was a 2008 GMC with a Horton box that was refurbished and refitted onto a Ford 650 Power Stroke Diesel chassis. That puts four ambulances in the stable of Station 64. Members of Station 64, their board of directors, the leadership of the David C. Harrison Post 14 American Legion, local legislators and members of the community helped celebrate the housing. In-house driver training has been accomplished and the new C64 has become a workhorse for the station. American Legion Ambulance Station 64 is expected to respond to nearly 4000 calls this year. - Submitted by Russ Stinson
Congratulations to Jay Robertson and Pablo Brito
Congratulations to firefighters Jay Robertson and Pablo Brito for graduating from the Delaware State Fire School-New Castle County Fire Academy Class #3. Both Jay and Pablo passed their national ProBoard certifications for Firefighter I and II and have earned their black shields for the department. The officers and members could not be more proud of their hard work and dedication to their training, their department, and their community. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 55
Lewes Participates in Sussex Safe Kids Day
Lewes Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Committee had a large contingency manning an informational tent where they lectured on fire safety and handed out goodie bags. Members also manned an engine that children could explore and learn about the equipment and how the engine operated. Station 82 enjoyed the opportunity to interact with the children and parents. - Submitted by Glenn Marshall
Page 56, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Middletown Peach Festival On August 19, 2017, the Annual Middletown Peach Festival and the Annual open house at Volunteer Hose Company was held. The morning began with a parade through the streets of Middletown, with marching bands, cars, floats and fire trucks. After the parade concluded the town was full of people, who walked down West Main Street, Pennington Street, West Green Street and through the Town Hall parking lot enjoying the many vendors and food options.
There were also demonstrations by neighboring fire companies in the Volunteer Hose Company parking lot. The weather cooperated and everyone had a good time. Volunteer Hose would like to thank all who participated in the open house and look forward to doing it again next year. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photos by Amy Murray and A. Ringle, Wilmington PD
Claymont Visits Synagogue for Fire Safety On July 11, 2017, the Claymont engine crew visited the Synagogue on Silverside Road. A tour of firefighters’ gear and the apparatus in addition to a discussion on fire safety and prevention rounded out the visit. We’d like to thank the Synagogue for their hospitality. It’s never too early to learn fire safety! - Submitted by Gary Plotts
Girl Scouts Visit Millsboro
Recently the Millsboro Volunteer Fire Company welcomed the Girl Scouts for a tour of their station. - DFSN photos by Larry Gum
Annual Seafood Meeting On August 1, 2017, Five Points members enjoyed crabs, shrimp, clams and fried chicken after the company meeting. This has been provided for many years, and the last 12 years the food was cooked and served by George and Sons Seafood Market located on Old Lancaster Pike in Hockessin. The cost of this event is covered by tips received by members who volunteer during catered events in our hall throughout the year. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 57
Raffle Money Donated
On July 29, 2017, Five Points’ members visited Wilmington Fire Fallen firefighters Fickes, Leach and Hope. On behalf of the Department’s Station 5. This planned visit was made to donate the officers and members, thanks to everyone who participated and funds raised from a recent helmet and fire shield raffle. helped with the fundraiser. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes Approximately $1,700 was raised and donated to the families of
Page 58, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
2017 Eastern Division Officers
The 2017 officers of the Eastern Division are (left to right): Ted Lowden (NJ), New Jersey Director Chris Assenheimer, pastDelaware Director Terry Jester, Executive Director Jon Townley President Bill Betts (DE), Maryland Director Paul Sulliv, and 1st (DE), 2nd Vice-President Joe Fahd (NY), Pennsylvania Director Vice-President Jim Yates (NJ). - Submitted by Terry Jester Frank Hand, President Paul Sterling (MD), International Director
VHC’s Smith, Thompson Awarded Chiefs Scholarship At their monthly Board of Directors meeting, the Volunteer Hose awarded two of its active members with the first annual Chiefs Educational Scholarship. VHC is proud to announce that Emily Smith and Savannah Thompson were the first recipients of this award. The scholarship is for any active member of Volunteer Hose that is trying to further their education. - Submitted by Tim Murray, photo by A. Murray
Just in Case in Farmington Farmington Fire Company toured the new Christiana Materials Farmington Hot Mix Plant. - Submitted by Tom Williams
First Responders Night Citizen’s Bank Park
On May 27, 2017, the Delaware State Police Honor Guard, Pipes and Drums, and its esteemed bugler, Cpl/2 Jon Packard, performed on field to open the Philadelphia Phillies versus Cincinnati Reds game at Citizen’s Bank Park for Phillies First Responder’s Night. This was the first time all three of the division’s ceremonial elements performed at this venue, but the third year in a row that the
Honor Guard has presented the Colors. This provided another opportunity to Honor Cpl/1 Stephen Ballard as well as Lt. Steven Floyd (DOC), Firefighter Tim McClanahan (Lewes FD) and the three fallen Wilmington firefighters (Capt. Christopher Leach, Lt. Jerry Fickes and Firefighter Ardythe Hope). - Submitted by Jim Woznicki
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 59
Fire Marshal’s Report Four Displaced by Fire in Claymont Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal A fire that heavily damaged a Claymont home on August 26, 2017, was investigated by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office. The blaze, reported shortly after noon, occurred in the unit block of North Trail in the Indianfield development. The Claymont Fire Company arrived on the scene with flames shooting from the two-story home. Two adults and two children were displaced. Fire damage was estimated at $200,000. There were no injuries.
Trailer and Vehicle Sustain Fire Damage Michael G. Chionchio, Assistant State Fire Marshal The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has determined that a fire on August 26, 2017, in Georgetown, which injured two occupants was accidental. The Georgetown Fire Company responded to the unit block of Douglas Street just before 0400 for a fire reported in a travel trailer. Two of the occupants were transported to Milford Memorial Hospital due to sustaining injuries. The fire originated on the stove top and erupted when cooking materials ignited. A 66-year-old female and a 49-year-old male were burned. The victims were transferred to the Crozer Burn Center in Upland, Pennsylvania, for treatment. Both victims were listed in critical condition. Heavy fire damage was estimated at $20,000. A passenger vehicle parked next to the trailer was also burned. There were no smoke alarms present.
Harrington Man Arrested for Arson B. Scott Bullock, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office has completed a joint investigation with the Greenwood Police Department and the Camden Police Department that has led to the arrest of a 28-year-old Harrington man. Joshua Lewis was arrested on Sunday, August 6, 2017, and charged with felony Arson in the 2nd degree and other related charges for the August 3 fire that involved a vehicle on Pinepitch Road, west of Harrington. The vehicle fire was reported just before 1900 off the roadway. The Harrington Fire Company responded to the call and arrived to find the vehicle heavily involved. Deputy State Fire Marshals were called to the scene to investigate the fire and determined it to be intentionally set. Through the course of the investigation, it was determined that the vehi-
cle matched the description of a vehicle related to a string of recent bank robberies — One in Camden at the Shore United Bank on July 28, 2017, and the Discover Bank in Greenwood on August 2, 2017. Members of the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Greenwood Police Department, and Camden Police Department executed their arrest warrants at Dover Police Department on August 6. Lewis was charged with several felonies related to the robberies by the departments where the robberies had occurred. The State Fire Marshal’s Office arrested Lewis for the arson to the vehicle and other charges related to the arson.
One FF Injured, 5 Horses Perish in Seaford Harry R. Miller, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a structure fire in Seaford, which occurred on August 7, 2017, at 0722. The fire, which involved an approximately 130 x 30-foot horse stable, was located on the 10,000 block of Airport Road.The Blades Volunteer Fire Company assisted by Laurel, Seaford, Bridgeville and Greenwood, responded to the scene to find heavy fire showing on one end of the structure, and farm staff on scene rescuing horses. One firefighter was transported to Nanticoke Memorial Hospital with minor burns to his feet, and five horses perished during the rescue efforts. Total damages are estimated at $750,000.
Hotel Evacuated in Rehoboth Beach Harry R. Miller, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office investigated a structure fire in Rehoboth Beach, which occurred on July 30, 2017, at 2353. The fire occurred at the Atlantic Sands Hotel, located on the 100 block of North Boardwalk. The Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company, assisted by Lewes and Bethany Beach, responded to the scene to find alarm bells sounding and evacuation in progress. Fire crews assisted with evacuation as well as locating the area of the fire. The fire was located in the laundry area of the basement, with sprinkler system activation. No injuries were reported in this incident and occupants were allowed back into the building at approximately 0130. The State Fire Marshal’s office determined that the incident occurred as a result of a malfunction in a clothes dryer, which activated one sprinkler head. Total damages caused by this incident are estimated at $5,000.
Page 60, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
Cox Elected Five Points Asst. Chief
At its regular company meeting on July 11, 2017, Captain Brian Cox was elected to 2nd Assistant Chief. The members congratulate Brian and wish him the best of luck in his new position. - Submitted by Chuck Hayes
Claymont’s Journey to a New Engine
In August of 2016 repairs costs were starting to become excessive on the Claymont Fire Company’s 1996 E-one, Engine 132. The engineering staff had reviewed the rig and made a comprehensive list of repairs needed to keep the truck safely on the road and in front-line service. We had a second party also perform a complete mechanical, engine and DOT inspection on E132. With several pending repairs and now a oil sample revealing possible internal engine problems, it was time for the company to re-evaluate spending money maintaining this piece of apparatus. In September of 2016, a search was started for a replacement, and by February 2017, we had eliminated several vehicles and chose a unit located in Ansonia, Connecticut. After several inspections and road tests Claymont made an offer, and Eagle Hose H&L Company 6 accepted it. Now the real work was to start! The truck was transported by the professionals at B&F Towing and recovery out of New Castle, DE, and was transported directly to Halo Service in Collingdale. There the truck was put on a lift and mechanical work began. A complete PM service was done. All six tires were approximately 12-years old and they were taken to Salerno Tire in Sharon Hill and replaced. Back at Halo, the pump was serviced and certified and Delaware DOT inspection complete. The next stop was the body shop. Meanwhile, back at the station, several members worked to remove whatever we could from the old E132. A team from Emergency Lighting Outfitters of Chester Springs, PA, came out and removed most of the LED lighting which would be transferred to the new rig. Scott Price from EVO met with committee members to discuss the lighting package. The truck was driven to Northeast Auto/Truck shop in Wilmington. Once there, Charles Allen and his team removed all letter-
ing, graphics and evaluated the paint. Rust concerns were addressed, windshields replaced, and compartments were painted. The truck was out of the body shop in six weeks and headed to its next shop, Emergency Lighting Outfitters. The tactical officers placed a call to Atlantic’s Don Moorhead for miscellaneous equipment and varying hose sizes to supplement what couldn’t be used from the old engine. Meanwhile our manpower attended to maintenance equipment that was to be relocated on the new truck including painting ladder tips and general maintenance. The truck was driven to Emergency Lighting Outfitters where their team began removing the old incandescent lighting, upgrading it to LED. While it was in the shop, Phil from Fitch Graphic’s began lettering the rig to mirror our fleet. Within two weeks the truck completed its journey, but was not in service yet. Overview: The 1992 Pierce Lance is powered by a 6V-92 and Allison transmission. It has a 1250-gpm Waterous pump, a 150-foot handline with a 50-foot spare donut roll, 30-feet of four-inch supply line front suction, two 200-foot handlines, a 200-foot three-inch standpipe supply, two 300-foot handlines, a 200-foot handline, 1250-feet of four-inch supply line, 600-feet of three-inch supply line, and 200-feet of 2-1/2 inch blitz line The Board, Officers and members of Claymont Fire Company have worked a year acquiring and putting Engine 132 in service. Multiple meetings, daily phone calls and thousands of man hours went into making this truck part of our fleet. We’re pleased to announce this truck is now in service, maintaining the highest level of service to the residents of Claymont and surrounding communities. - Submitted by Gary Plotts
October 2017
Delaware Fire Service News, Page 61
2018 National Fire & Emergency Services Symposium & Dinner Call for Seminar Proposals
The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) is announcing an official Call for Proposals for the 2018 National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium. The Symposium will be held in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, in conjunction with the 30th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner. Seminar proposals must meet the following criteria to be considered: Seminars should focus on federal policy or issues that are national in scope, and have a positive impact on the nation's fire and emergency services. Seminars intended solely to promote for-profit programs and activities that specifically benefit an organization will not be considered. Seminars are limited to 50 minutes in length. Where applicable, proposed panelists and moderators should represent a diversity of national organizations and fire service disciplines. Proposals should be submitted online to CFSI no later than October 6, 2017.
Proposals must include the following information: Seminar title; Seminar description and objectives (minimum 200 word narrative); Names of panelists and moderators with biographical information (minimum 200 words per biography); Statement explaining how the proposed seminar aligns with CFSI's mission to advance the readiness and response capabilities of all first responders; Statement explaining how the applicant will help CFSI promote the seminar and the 2018 National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner; A primary point of contact for the submission, including name, phone number, and email address. All proposals will be reviewed by CFSI’s staff and the Programmatic Subcommittee of CFSI’s National Advisory Committee. Incomplete proposals will not be considered. Applicants must agree to work with CFSI to finalize participants, produce relevant materials, and promote the seminars series. CFSI reserves the right to make changes to panelists and seminar content. Questions regarding the Call for Proposals should be directed to Sean Carroll, CFSI’s Director of Government Affairs, at scarroll@cfsi.org or 202-371-1277.
Minquadale B-22 Has Arrived! - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
Firefighter Appreciation Day
Minquadale Rescue Engine 226 was on display at Delaware Park’s Firefighter Appreciation Day. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
Probies Assist
The probationary and junior Minquadale firefighters assist with re-racking the hose lines on 223 after it returned from a fire in Holloway Terrace on June 7, 2017. - Submitted by Minquadale Fire Company
Page 62, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017
FHEXPO17: ENHANCING YOUR EDUCATION Firehouse Expo 2017 offers more workshops than ever before, including 10 pre-conference workshops, a full two days of community risk reduction, and four new exciting hybrid workshops combining intense classroom instruction with high-impact hands-on training. The main conference is also action-packed, including more than 140 educational and marquee sessions featuring high-profile events and some of the most critical topics in the American fire service with the most one-on-one, student-focused instruction of any national conference. The exceptional lineup of educational programs covers a variety of topics that are critical to your day-to-day operations and your long-term growth in the fire service. Tactics-focused sessions are designed to enhance your incident scene skill sets, while strategy- and leadership-focused sessions will help develop your decision-making, personnel management and general fire station or department operations. “Firehouse is excited to be back in Nashville for our second year, and this conference promises to be even more action-packed than last year,” said Firehouse Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach. “Each class is designed and focused on making sure you get the attention you need to learn and apply the skills you learn at Firehouse Expo.”
Pre-Conference Sessions Tuesday, Oct. 17 & Wednesday, Oct. 18 As part of its pre-conference lineup, Firehouse offers a variety of exciting educational sessions, including those focused on WUI command, fire research, leadership, first-due strategic responsibilities, tactical resiliency and more. Also included in the pre-conference programming is Firehouse’s Community Risk Reduction program. Presented in partnership with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), this program focuses on improving the firefighters’ work environment, working with code officers to create a safer community and more. Main Conference Sessions Thursday, Oct. 19-Saturday, Oct. 21 Don’t miss Expo sessions focused on forcible entry, rapid-intervention teams, mayday events, survival skills, wind-impacted fires, building live-fire training props, hazmat operations, railroad incidents, fire prevention, diversity issues, PTSD and stress management, initial attack line skills, developing a healthy and fit firehouse culture, tower rescues, social media policies, search and rescue, managing staffing limitations and much more. To learn more and register, visit firehouseexpo.com.
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park • Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! • The event will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org Belmont Park. Register in advance at www.nationalstairclimb.org. • Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) • Fees: $35 for the Climb. $50 for the Climb and After Party. and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) $50 for Climb Supporters and After Party floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt and On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters in New a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring. York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual National Stair The stair climb is a family event and we encourage Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park. you to bring your spouses, children, family and “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation perfriends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin at forms extraordinary work providing resources for the 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited draft beer families of fallen heroes across the country,” said Fire and soda. There will also be bounce castles, pony Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By climbing steps rides and fun for the entire family. In addition, the each year, every participant not only raises funds to New York Racing Association will raffle two 2018 support the families of FDNY members who made the Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valued at $200 each, Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure those we have lost and will assign a minimum of five race names for the FDNY are never forgotten.” to use to honor their fallen. For more information and to register, Gates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of go to www.nationalstairclimb.org.
FDSOA APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will celebrate its 30th Anniversary January 15-17, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The first symposium was created after a series of meetings initiated by the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ staff, fire chiefs, several state mechanics’ associations and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association to address issues concerning apparatus, maintenance and maintenance personnel. I n 1 9 8 8 , the f ir st Appa r a tus Maintenance and Specification Symposium was held in Fort Worth, Texas, through the efforts of Fire Chief Larry McMillen, Fort Worth Fire Department, Bob Barraclough, Span Instruments, and Mary McCormack, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1989, after the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established as a subsidiary of the ISFSI, the Apparatus Symposium was moved to a hotel on Sandlake Road in Orlando, Florida. The symposium was designed to be educational and limited
to table tops, not exhibits. Topics covered a range from preventive maintenance efforts to issues of liability and new safety standards. As the conference grew, it moved to the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive. In 2013, the FDSOA headquarters were moved from Massachusetts to Michigan, and the Apparatus Symposium and the annual Safety Forum are co-located and held the same week, alternating between Orlando and Scottsdale, AZ. “Thirty years is a major accomplishment to sustain a very unique conference,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director for FDSOA. “Fire apparatus has changed significantly over the past thirty years and most importantly, the focus on safer apparatus for fire and EMS personnel. FDSOA is proud to continue to support improvements and education in safety.” T h e 3 0 t h F D S O A A n n u a l Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will feature keynote speakers: Brad Pinsky, attorney and fire chief; Garry Briese, executive director, Colorado State Fire Chiefs; and Chief Bruce Varner (ret.). For further details: Rich Marinucci, e-mail: fdsoa@fdsoa.org.
Page 64, Delaware Fire Service News
October 2017