Fire News Ohio 2-2026

In this issue...

Training

Classifieds

Quick Response Limits Damage in Coshocton Fire

The Coshocton Fire Department swiftly contained a house fire on January 13, 2026.

See story on page 4

Exposures Protected at Warren City Blaze

The Warren City Fire Department was dispatched to Taylor Street NW for a report of a fully involved structure fire.

See story on page 6

Frozen Hydrants, Cold Weather Hamper Firefight

Cleveland Fire responded to a house fire on East 114 at Ashbury in B6.

See story on page 12

Two Deer Rescued from Harrison Lake

The Gorham-Fayette FD received a call regarding two deer stuck in the middle of the ice at Harrison Lake.

See story on page 16

Columbus Developing Nurse Health Care

Navigation Line

The Nurse Health Care Navigation Line will work alongside the current 911 operations.

See story on page 23

Captain Wilmer Hale

Honored on

50th Anniversay of Sacrifice

Captain Wilmer Hale gave his life in the line of duty during the devastating Buckeye Fabric Finishing Company fire on December 16, 1975.

See story on page 26

pages 18, 20, 22

page 22

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Business Directory

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page 22

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page 26

Quick Response Limits Damage in Coshocton House Fire

The Coshocton Fire Department swiftly contained a house fire on January 13, 2026, preventing extensive damage thanks to its prime location and rapid response. Firefighters were dispatched to the 600 block of Orange Street at approximately 1145 hours after reports of smoke filling the interior of the home were received. The residence was located directly across the street from the fire station, allowing crews to arrive almost immediately. Firefighters advanced a handline into the structure and quickly knocked down the flames. An allcall was issued for off-duty members to report to the station for the

working fire, bringing approximately 10 Coshocton firefighters to the scene. The fast response restricted damage primarily to a portion of the first floor, with only minor damage reported on the second floor. A wooden cabinet that had burned was removed from the home. No injuries were reported among firefighters or residents during the incident. The cause of the fire remained under investigation. The department’s proximity and efficiency minimized the impact of the blaze.

Fayette Twp Exterior Ops on Vacant Structure

Fayette Township Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Township Road 279 East. Upon arrival, units encountered heavy fire involvement throughout the structure. Due to the advanced conditions, crews immediately established a defensive firefighting operation to protect exposures. The structure was confirmed to be vacant at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. We would like to thank all assisting agencies for their prompt response and cooperation. ChesapeakeUnion. Mutual aid came from Chesapeake-Union, South Point, Proctorville Lawrence County EMS, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and County 911. - Photo courtesy of Fayette Township FD

Exposures Protected at Warren City Blaze

At 0127 hours, the Warren City Fire Department was dispatched to the 1200 block of Taylor Street NW for a report of a fully involved structure fire. Car 12, Truck 1, Rescue 1, Engine 5 and Engine 6 responded. Units arrived to a fully involved two-story house. Crews immediately began defensive operations, protecting exposures. Extension into the exposures was limited and the fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Ohio State Fire Marshal.

- Photos courtesy of Warren Professional Firefighters Local 204

1 Day, 2 Fires in Akron

Monroe Avenue House Fire

Firefighters from the Cleveland Fire Department responded to an occupied house fire on the 3200 block of Monroe Avenue in B4. Two residents left the house safely, but one dog died. The cause was

thought to be of an electrical nature and damaged an exposure home as well.

1 Transported from Warren City Fire

At 1119 hours, the Warren City Fire Department was dispatched to the 1700 block of Clemmens Avenue NW for a report of a structure fire with one person possibly inside. Car 12, Car 2, Truck 1, Ladder 6, Engine 5 and Engine 6 responded. Units arrived and found a working fire in a single-story house. Crews immediately initiated an aggressive interior attack while simultaneously searching for any possible victims in the structure. No victims were found and all occupants were reported out. The fire was quickly brought under control. One person was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Ohio State Fire Marshal. - Photos courtesy of Warren Professional Firefighters Local 204

Cleveland Responds to 2 in 1 Day

Frozen Hydrants, Cold Weather Hamper Firefight

Cleveland Fire responded to a house fire on East 114 at Ashbury in B6. Arriving companies found an occupied duplex well involved and threatening the house next door. Frozen hydrants, mechanical issues, and cold weather all were challenges. A 2-2-2 alarm was struck, bringing additional companies to the scene to assist with two involved structures; water supply relays were also required.

American Red Cross of Northern Ohio was assisting eight displaced adults. Nice job by all 13 responding companies particularly Engine 22 and Ladder 30 overcoming adversity, especially members of L30 (FF John Kodek, FF Brian Devine) who lit road flares to thaw the initial frozen hydrant.

- Photos courtesy of Cleveland FD

Firefighters from the Cincinnati Fire Department

- Photo courtesy Cincinnati FD

Archwood Avenue Fire in Akron

Two Deer Rescued from Harrison Lake

The Gorham-Fayette FD received a call regarding two deer stuck in the middle of the ice at Harrison Lake. Crews was able to rescue

Close Call in Madison Twp MVA

both deer; one took off right away and the other just needed a little warming effort. - Photos courtesy of Gorham-Fayette FD

Madison Township Fire Department Rescue 101, Squad 101, Chief 111 responded to the 11000 block of Staddens Bridge Road for a single-car MVA. The vehicle went through a fence and a telephone pole, narrowly missing an occupied home. Impairment of the driver was being investigated. - Courtesy of Madison Township FD

Successful Water Rescue

At 1609 hours on December 18, 2025, an adult male jumped off the end of the East 9th Street Pier into Lake Erie. A bystander witnessed the incident and called 911. Members of Downtown Cleveland, Inc., were making their rounds in the area and helped the bystander throw an orange rescue ring down to the man in the water. Cleveland Fire Rescue Squads 1 and 2, Engines 1 and 2, Tower 1, and the Assistant Chief responded. TR1 set up a rope system, lowered a rescue diver into the water, deployed their inflatable rescue boat, and hauled the man back up onto the pier. Cleveland EMS Medic 26 transported the male to MetroHealth in stable condition.

- Photos courtesy of Cleveland FD

Hinckley & Other Departments Train

value of this training is undeniable. We would like to thank the instructors’ expertise and the dedication of all firefighters who attended to sharpen their skills and benefit Hinckley Township!

-Photos courtesy of HFD

Cold Day for Pump Training

Newark Puts New Apparatus in Service

On December 5, 2025, Newark Fire Department placed their second brand-new Pierce Saber fire engine in service at Station 2 on Hollander Street. We are grateful for the support of Mayor Jeff Hall, City Council, and for the members of the Hall administration.

-Photos courtesy of Newark Division of Fire

High School Students at MCCTC

Columbus Developing Nurse Health Care Navigation Line

To enhance emergency medical response and ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care, the City of Columbus is developing a Nurse Health Care Navigation Line Service. This program recognizes that, while every 911 call is important, not all medical situations require a medic or transport to an emergency room. By providing an alternative pathway for non-emergency medical needs, the city aims to improve overall patient care and optimize the use of emergency resources.

The Nurse Health Care Navigation Line will work alongside the current 911 operations. Dispatchers will continue to follow proven medical protocols, but when certain criteria are met, a caller may be transferred to a registered nurse on the new hotline. The RN will assess the patient’s needs and direct them to the most suitable care provider. Depending on the situation, this may include an urgent care center, primary care provider, substance abuse service, or other healthcare resources.

This program will not only free up Columbus Fire medics to respond to urgent medical emergencies but also save patients from costly ER visits when another service may be more appropriate.

“This program is about optimizing care for all our patients,” said Dr. Robert Lowe, Columbus Division of Fire Medical Director. “Getting the right care for the patients’ needs in the right amount of time is really the overarching goal.”

Lowe went on to say, “Decreasing the financial burden and the time to connect to the correct provider by directing patients to the most appropriate care setting, benefits all of our patients in the system.”

Legislation enabling the Nurse Health Care Navigation Line will be presented to the Columbus City Council after Presidents Day. According to Mayor Andrew Ginther, if approved, and after contracts are finalized, the city anticipates that the Nurse Health Care Navigation Line will begin taking calls approximately six months later.

-Photos courtesy Columbus Division of Fire

Coshocton FD Welcomes New Firefighters in Swearing-In Ceremony

On October 10, 2025, at 1600 hours, the Coshocton Fire Department proudly welcomed four new firefighters, Brett Knepper, Dustin Patterson, Remington Graham and Troy Jones, during a swearing-in ceremony at Hale Station.

The ceremony marked their formal commitment to serve the community, as they pledged allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Ohio Constitution, the laws of the city of Coshocton, and the responsibilities of their roles. Captains Andrew Akers, Nic Carey, Ben Young, and Zach Elson guided the new recruits through their oaths, solidifying their dedication to protecting and serving the city.

The Coshocton Fire Department congratulates its newest members and looks forward to their contributions to ensuring the safety of the community.

- Fire News photos by Jim McKeever

Bloom Township’s Push-In Ceremony Welcomes New Engine

Bloom Township Fire Department marked an important milestone recently with the dedication of its newest fire engine — a project years in the making and shaped by collaboration, perseverance and community support. What could have been seen simply as the delivery of a new piece of apparatus became something much more meaningful: a celebration of tradition, teamwork, and the collective commitment to serving the community with excellence.

The process began several years ago under the guidance of a dedicated committee whose members shaped every element of the apparatus.

invested hundreds of hours into evaluating equipment, anticipating operational needs, and ensuring the apparatus reflected the realities of modern firefighting. Remarkably, three members began this journey as firefighters and earned promotion to Lieutenant during the years-long process.The project also carries a deeply personal legacy. Lieutenant Andy Nunley, who led the early stages of the committee, passed away from occupational cancer in 2022. - Submitted by Tommy Gibbs

Coshocton Honors Captain Wilmer Hale on 50th Anniversary of His Sacrifice

On December 16, 2025, the Coshocton Fire Department gathered at Hale Station to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the tragic death of Captain Wilmer Hale, who gave his life in the line of duty during the devastating Buckeye Fabric Finishing Company fire on December 16, 1975.

The memorial event, held at 1600 hours at Hale Station – the fire department facility named in Captain Hale’s honor – drew city leaders, family members, current firefighters, and nine retired Coshocton firefighters, most of whom had served alongside him. New firefighters in Coshocton quickly learn of Hale’s ultimate sacrifice, a story that underscores the department’s commitment to ensuring all members return home safely to “Hale Station.”

EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN

After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.

Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.

I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters.

Konstant Design –Premium Apparel. Bold Designs. Built to Perform.

Hale, hired by the department on December 1, 1959, and promoted to captain on January 4, 1966, was remembered for his courage and leadership during the intense blaze that destroyed the fabric coating facility.

The guest speaker was Lieutenant Michael Ciampo (ret.) of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), a renowned lead instructor for the FDIC International Truck Essentials Hands-On Training program.

The following day, Ciampo conducted a ladder operations training class for the Coshocton Fire Department at Hale Station.

The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the risks firefighters face and the enduring legacy of those who make the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community. - Fire News photos by Jim McKeever

KUSSMAUL ELECTRONICS WELCOMES DAMON LEWIS AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Kussmaul Electronics proudly announces the appointment of Damon Lewis as Vice President of Sales, effective December 2025. This strategic leadership addition reflects Kussmaul’s continued commitment to the Emergency Vehicle industry and its future growth. Damon brings more than two decades of experience in the Emergency Vehicle industry and is widely recognized for his ability to foster long‐term customer relationships, lead high‐performing sales teams, and drive strategic growth. He has held senior roles in sales and business development at Whelen Engineering, Code 3, and Fouts Bros., serving both domestic and international markets across Fire and EMS segments.

His leadership background, combined with technical product expertise and a deep understanding of operational challenges, makes Damon uniquely equipped to understand the evolving needs of the industry and deliver practical, effective solutions. In his new role at Kussmaul, Damon will lead the company’s sales team and commercial strategy across North America and international markets, with a focus on customer experience, growth, and strengthened relationships across the Emergency Vehicle industry. He will work closely with OEMs, dealers, and departments to expand the company’s market presence while upholding the high standards of quality and service that Kussmaul is known for. Additionally, Damon will serve as Vice President of International Sales for MCE Vehicle Power, where he will work closely with Xantrex, one of Kussmaul’s sister companies, to strengthen the division’s global presence. “We’re excited to welcome Damon to the Kussmaul leadership team,” said Dale Tompkins, President of Vehicle Power at MCE. “His experience, integrity, and customer‐first mindset align perfectly with our mission to support those who serve.”

Damon’s appointment marks an important step forward in Kussmaul’s commitment to providing dependable, innovative power solutions that keep emergency vehicles energized and ready when seconds count.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Valeria Donoghue Marketing Manager valeria.donoghue@mce‐llc.com

CONGRESS PASSES LEGISLATION PROVIDING CANCER BENEFITS TO FAMILIES OF FALLEN PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation applauds lawmakers for including the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act as key provision in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.

Honor Act ensures families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled due to certain service-related cancers can receive federal benefits.

EMMITSBURG, MD (December 17, 2025) — Congress has approved legislation that extends line-of-duty death and disability benefits to the families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty.

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which was included as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to include certain occupational cancers. The PSOB program provides one-time financial payments to the families of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty, as well as educational benefits to the spouses and children of fallen officers.

“On behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I applaud the House and Senate for passing this important bipartisan legislation. I especially would like to thank Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Kevin Cramer, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, and Congressman Carlos Gimenez for leading this effort,” said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep their communities safe. By recognizing fire service–related cancers under the PSOB program, we ensure that those who risk their health for others receive the support they and their families deserve. I especially want to thank our brave Fire Hero Families who tirelessly advocated for the passage of this vital legislation. Their dedication, passion, and tenacity are why this bill will soon become law.”

The legislation will now go to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law.

For more information on the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program, please visit: https://bja.ojp.gov/program/psob.

For more information on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, please visit: https://www.firehero.org/.