INDIANA FIRE SERVICE NEWS
IF YOU HAVE A NEWS ITEM YOU WOULD LIKE POSTED PLEASE EMAIL INFORMATION TO rbrown@indianafirefighter.com
INDIANA LODD
EMS HELICOPTER CRASH-TRIPLE LODD:
It is with deep regret that we notify you of the crash of an
Air-Evac Lifeteam helicopter. The aircraft and crew were based in
Rushville, Indiana. The helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff
yesterday after a visit at the Burney VFD (PR detail) in Greensburg,
Indiana at around 1217 hours Sunday.
All
three crew members were killed in the line of Duty-no one else was on board.
PILOT: Roger Warren of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Captain
Warren is survived by his 15 year old step-daughter and his parents.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
FLIGHT NURSE: Sandra Pearson, RN of Avon,
Indiana. Ms. Pearson is survived by her eight year old son, 10 year old
daughter, and her parents.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
FLIGHT PARAMEDIC-MANAGER: Wade Weston (38) of
Cambridge City, Indiana. Paramedic Weston is survived by his wife --
Gretchen, two daughters -- ages nine and 13, his parents, five sisters, and one
brother.
His funeral will be Friday at 11:00 A.M. (EST) at the Cambridge
City Christian Church -- 106 West Church Street in Cambridge City,
Indiana. Visitation will be Thursday at the church from 4:00 P.M. until
7:00 P.M. (EST).
Please
keep the Warren, Pearson, Weston, and Air-Evac families in your thoughts and
prayers.
We
will notify all of the pending arrangements as they are available.
A
joint memorial service for all three crew members is being planned in
Rushville. The date and time will not be formally set until the
arrangements are finalized for Captain Warren and Nurse Pearson.
PROPOSED ISO RATINGS CHANGE
ISO is embarking on a project to review and, if warranted, update
the content of the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS). Our objective for
this “Draft Concept FSRS 2009” project is to identify portions of the current
PPCTM evaluation worthy of potential revision.
Over the next few months, we want to engage in discussions with a
variety of stakeholders in organizations that deal with water, fire, and
emergency communications. We’re seeking feedback on the scope and
feasibility of the possible revisions.
We offer the following draft outline of items under consideration
for revision. We hope the topics will serve as a framework for feedback you may
wish to give us.
Increased reference to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
standards
Possible revisions include:
- a requirement that, for a PPC
better than 10, the fire department must have sufficient membership to
assure response by at least 6 members (including the chief) to fires in
structures
- eliminating the current ISO
equipment inventory and replacing it with reference to pumper and
ladder/service equipment listed in NFPA 1901
- recognition of Initial Rapid
Intervention Crew and Rapid Intervention Crew teams, according to NFPA
1500
- an increase in minimum pump
capacity for engines for Class 9 communities from 50 gpm to 250 gpm, in
accordance with NFPA standards
- additional emphasis on firefighter
safety and training:
- training and
credentialing for fire officers in accordance with National Incident
Management System (NIMS) recommendations and NFPA 1021
- training for
fire apparatus drivers and operators in accordance with NFPA 1002 and
1451
- no credit for
training without proper documentation
- reference to
firefighter safety requirements
- requirement for
personal protective ensemble (PPE) clothing for all fire-suppression
personnel at structure fires
- recognition of automatic-aid
personnel responding to first-alarm structure fires
- extension of full credit for
automatic-aid response plans to first-alarm structure fires when the
departments have satisfied certain criteria for interoperability
Increased reference to the American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Possible revisions include:
- recognition for fire hydrants that
produce flows up to 1500 gpm, in accordance with ANSI and AWWA standards,
according to manufacturers’ descriptions
- more emphasis on hydrant inspection
programs, including hydrant flow testing
Reference to implementation of master or strategic planning
Possible revisions include:
- recognition of partial or full
Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) accreditation
through the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) — or equivalent
achievement of all the core competencies outlined by the CFAI with regard
to operations and procedures for firefighting
- recognition for adoption and enforcement
of model building and fire-prevention codes
- recognition for public fire-safety
education programs
- recognition for adoption of fire
department standard operating procedures according to NIMS standards or
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) publication FA-197
- recognition for adoption of a fire
department incident management system according to NFPA 1561
Revisions to Fire Alarm section
Possible revisions include:
- changing section name to Emergency
Communications and broadening focus
- streamlined criteria for
recognizing enhanced 911 emergency communication services
- recognition for credentialing of
telecommunicators
- assessment of level of
interoperability on the fire ground
Additional revisions under consideration
Possible revisions include:
- increased recognition of fire
sprinklers in residential properties for determination of needed fire
flows (NFF)
- reduction of needed fire flow (NFF)
duration for 1- and 2-family dwellings to one hour
- increased recognition for
technology-based systems, such as geographic information systems (GIS)
reconsideration of the credit value for reserve pumper and ladder apparatus
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
27th
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend to be Held on October 4 - 5, 2008
» Video: An Intro to the Memorial Weekend
» Broadcast: Satellite Coordinates for the Candlelight
& Memorial Services
Emmitsburg, MD - The National
Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Department of Homeland Security's
U.S. Fire Administration announce that the 27th annual National Fallen
Firefighters Memorial Weekend will be held October 4-5, 2008. A plaque with the
names of 101 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2007 will be added to
the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, located here on the National Fire
Academy campus. The names of 9 firefighters who died in previous years will
also be added. The plaques surrounding the Memorial, which was established in
1981, will contain the names of more than 3,200 firefighters.
» Read: Full Article on weekend.firehero.org
» More: About the National Fallen Firefighters
Memorial Weekend
Emergency Management
and Response
Information Sharing
and Analysis Center
(EMR-ISAC)
INFOGRAM
33-08 August
28, 2008
NOTE: This INFOGRAM will be
distributed weekly to provide members of the Emergency Services Sector with
information concerning the protection of their critical infrastructures. For
further information, contact the Emergency Management and Response- Information
Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) at (301) 447-1325 or by e-mail at emr-isac@dhs.gov.
National
Preparedness Month
Next week,
the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s fifth annual National Preparedness
Month (NPM) begins with the support of more than 2,700 national, regional,
state, and local NPM coalition members, the largest number to date.
"National
Preparedness Month is an important reminder about each American's civic
responsibility to prepare for emergencies," according to DHS Secretary
Michael Chertoff. "Those with the capacity and wherewithal to help
themselves must do so in advance, so that in the event of an emergency,
responders can first assist those who are unable to tend to themselves. From wildfires and earthquakes in California,
to hurricanes and tropical storms along the Gulf Coast, to flooding in the
Midwest, recent events remind us more than ever that we must prepare ourselves
and our families for a disaster. This is
the time, each year, when every American should ask the question, 'Am I
ready?'"
In keeping
with their tradition of serving and protecting the nation, hundreds of local,
municipal, and state Emergency Services Sector (ESS) departments and agencies
are coalition members. ESS personnel, aware that citizen readiness potentially
aids emergency assistance efforts, will encourage the public to take important
preparedness steps—acquiring an emergency supply kit, devising a family
emergency plan, becoming informed about the different emergencies that may
affect them, and getting involved in community preparedness and response
efforts—all with the goal of substantially improving their ability to survive
and recover from all types of natural or man-made emergencies.
NPM
coalition members will urge Americans to prepare for emergencies in their
homes, businesses, schools, and communities by hosting events such as seminars,
fairs, community outreach events, workshops, webinars, and training. An event calendar can be viewed at www.ready.gov. A Spanish language version is available at www.listo.gov. The Emergency Management and
Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center invites ESS personnel to visit
http://www.ready.gov/america/npm08/intro.html
to register for coalition membership.
Gang
Crime Guidebook for Law Enforcement
Gangs are as
old as America itself and part of our historical and popular culture. However, fueled by the drug trade and other
criminal activities, gangs are increasingly nation-wide operations, with many of
the largest and most vicious gangs operating throughout the United States,
according to Department of Justice (DOJ) statistics. In reports from numerous State and Local
Fusion Centers, the Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and
Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) noted that many of today’s gangs present a growing
threat to the safety of emergency responders and the security of local critical
infrastructures.
“Strategies
to Address Gang Crime: A Guidebook for Local Law Enforcement” provides information
about developing and enhancing local law enforcement responses to gangs in
their jurisdictions. The focus of this
Guidebook is on the use of problem-solving strategies to help agencies select
the interventions most appropriate for their communities. In particular, the Guidebook describes the
“SARA” model (Scanning, Analysis, Response, and Assessment), a strategic
problem-solving process that local law enforcement can apply to its gang
problem to improve their responses and enhance community safety.
Published by the DOJ Office of Community
Oriented Policing Services, the Guidebook is the result of a project awarded to
the Institute for Public Safety Partnerships at the University of Illinois in
Chicago. It can be seen and downloaded from the following link (l.53 Mb, 56
pp.)
https://www.hsdl.org/homesec/docs/justice/nps36-080808-01.pdf&code=cb42359fc31ff1d4bb13ce89db31ad0d.
Fire
Courses Available Online
The
classroom portions of the two basic fire training courses needed for
qualification as a wildland firefighter can now be taken online, thanks to a
cooperative effort between the National Wildfire Coordinating Group and the
U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy.
The
Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center
(EMR-ISAC) learned that the two courses, which firefighter trainees
traditionally have taken together, are S-130 (Firefighter Training) and S-190
(Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior).
The courses are designed to teach the basic strategies and tactics that
crews use to fight fires burning in vegetation, how wildland fire behaves, and
how weather influences the spread of wildland fire.
According to
Dan Smith, Fire Director for the National Association of State Foresters,
“making these widely-used courses available online can be important to helping
meet the training needs of local fire department personnel—and accomplishing that
in a way that works well for departments with scarce funds and availability of
time.”
The S-130
and S-190 training courses are configured in short modules of 1 to 3 hours,
which enable students to complete the courses at their own pace. Collectively, the two courses offer
approximately 40 hours of training, and can be accessed through the National
Fire Academy’s NFA Online at
www.nfaonline.dhs.gov.
Extreme Weather Operations
The U.S. Fire Administration’s
newly released “Special Report: Fire Department Preparedness for Extreme
Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters” is written specifically to maximize
assistance to Emergency Services Sector (ESS) departments and organizations
called to incidents during challenging weather conditions.
As the report attests, the ESS
and the nation are tested rigorously year-round: “Earthquakes, hurricanes,
blizzards and ice storms, floods, power outages, and extreme heat conspire to
create dangerous working conditions, impassable roads, access nightmares, and
some difficult dispatch and triage choices,”
consequences that potentially degrade ESS survivability, continuity, and
response-ability. Referring to the many
departments that have responded under harsh and dangerous weather conditions,
the report states: “They have had to improvise strategies, revise deployment
protocols, work extended shifts, and make do with whatever was available.”
To aid all ESS agencies,
regardless of past experience, depth and breadth of experience, or weather
emergencies or disasters not yet experienced, the report examines weather
impact, types of service calls, planning and necessary equipment, safety,
mutual aid, shift management, resource identification, logistics, extended
operations, and coordination with Emergency Operations Centers. Eight weather-specific case studies are
presented. The Emergency Management and
Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) recognizes a value
of this report to plan for challenging weather events as well as responses to
chemical, biological, and radiological incidents (accidental or intentional).
To view and download “Fire
Department Preparedness for Extreme Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters,” USFA-TR-162/April 2008 (39 pp., 367 KB), go to http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/tr_162.pdf.
NOTICE!
TO: ALL FIRE SERVICE PERSONNEL
The proposed rule changes
proposed by the Indiana Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education
affects YOU and YOUR FUTURE!
All Fire Service
Members are ENCOURAGED TO READ THE DOCUMENT on the Proposed Rule Changes! The
link is posted in the article posted below this notice. If you oppose the
adoption of a specific rule change you must contact Mara Snyder or any Board
Member with your concerns!
Professionally
Randy B.
BOARD MEMBER CONTACT INFORMATION
DARRICK SCOTT (chairman)
(darrickscott@vigocountyfire.com)
JERRY NULLINER (co-chairman)
(mailto:nullinerj@fishers.in.us)
CHARLES (DON) HALL (secretary)
(Uncledon226@sbcglobal.net)
THOMAS HANIFY
(hanify@indy.rr.comt)
JACK KERNEY SR FF
(mcfdchief@aol.com)
Joe Wainscott Jr.
(jwainscott@dhs.in.gov)
GERALD GEORGE
(grgeorge@pikefire.com)
MS. CANDICE ASHBY
(cashby@keyfire.net)
Ab Crosby
(acrosby8@comcast.net)
Jeff Hayes
(jhayes@msdwt.k12.in.us)
Notice of
Public Hearing
From: Snyder, Mara
Sent: Monday, August 25, 2008 6:27 AM
Subject: RE: Sept meeting address change
Importance: High
Would everyone get the word out
that the public hearing has been changed to the October 27 meeting in Ft.
Wayne!
It’s at 10:00 a.m. at the Public
Safety Academy of NE Indiana, 7602 Patriot Crossing, Ft. Wayne.
I’ll be sending the new hearing
information for publication in the Indiana Register, but that’s not something
most folks read. Thank you.
Under
IC 4-22-2-24, notice is hereby given that on October 27th
10:00am., at the Public Safety Academy of NE Indiana, 7602 Patriot Crossing,
Ft. Wayne, Indiana,
the Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education will hold a public
hearing on the proposed adoption of LSA Document #08-429 that amends 655 IAC 1,
the general administrative rules, for the purpose of making changes to the
Board's certification requirements, processes and procedures, deleting
certifications, correcting typographical errors, and making conforming section
changes.
Public
comments are invited and may be directed to the Department of Homeland
Security, Code Services Section, Attn: Mara Snyder, Indiana Government Center
South, 302 West Washington Street, Room W246, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.
The
Board of Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education has authority to adopt
this rule under IC 22-14- 2-7.
The
proposed rule provides necessary clarification and updating of the Board's
administrative rules.
The
costs associated with the rule are necessary to ensure a heightened level of
proficiency among the instructors who are overseeing and delivering training
classes. The increasing integration of public safety response has created a
vastly increased number of professionals who combine with firefighters in
response teams. It is critically important to ensure that all members of such a
response team are equally trained and that those delivering the training are
appropriately qualified.
Copies
of these rules are now on file at the Indiana Government Center South, 302 West
Washington Street,
Room W246 and Legislative Services Agency, One North Capitol, Suite 325,
Indianapolis, Indiana and are open
for public inspection.
Jerry Nulliner
Chairman
Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission
Posted: 08/06/2008 by Legislative Services Agency
An html version of this document
IDHS PROPOSED FIREFIGHTER RULE CHANGES:
http://www.in.gov/legislative/iac/20080806-IR-655080429PRA.xml.pdf
The United States
Fire Administration Announces the 2007 Firefighter Fatalities Report
Emmitsburg, MD. -
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has released today its report Firefighter Fatalities in the United States in 2007.
The report continues a series of annual studies by the USFA of on-duty
firefighter fatalities in the United States. The USFA is the single public
agency source of information for all on-duty firefighter fatalities in the
United States each year.
"One of the
greatest challenges we face as a fire service is to stop the needless deaths of
firefighters while in service to their communities," United States Fire
Administrator Greg Cade said. "Every day and across this nation,
firefighters are responding to emergencies that threaten the lives of their
residents. These same threats also threaten the lives of firefighters.
Unfortunately, we all lost far too many firefighters in 2007."
During calendar
year 2007, there were 118 firefighters who lost their lives while on duty
across the United States.
The
unique and specific objective of Firefighter
Fatalities in the United States is to identify all on-duty firefighter
fatalities that occurred in the United States and its protectorates, and to
present in summary narrative form the circumstances surrounding each
occurrence. In addition to the 2007 overall findings, this study includes
information on the hazards to firefighters presented by the lack of seatbelt
use. In 2007, 27 firefighter fatalities resulted from vehicle-related
incidents. In 19 of the 27 incidents where seatbelt status was known, 11
firefighters were confirmed as not wearing seatbelts at the time of the event.
An overview of
the 118 firefighters that died while on duty in 2007:
- 68 volunteer
firefighters and 50 career firefighters died while on duty.
- There were 7
firefighter fatality incidents where 2 or more firefighters were killed,
claiming a total of 21 firefighters' lives.
- 11
firefighters were killed during activities involving brush, grass, or
wildland firefighting, the lowest in over a decade.
- Activities
related to emergency incidents resulted in the deaths of 76 firefighters.
- 38 firefighters
died while engaging in activities at the scene of a fire.
- 26
firefighters died while responding to or returning from emergency
incidents.
- 11
firefighters died while they were engaged in training activities.
- 15
firefighters died after the conclusion of their on-duty activity.
- Heart attacks
were the most frequent cause of death for 2007, with 52 firefighter
deaths.
For the past 22
years, the USFA has tracked all firefighter fatalities and conducted the
necessary analysis for the benefit of the fire service. Through the collection
of information on the causes of firefighter deaths, the USFA is able to focus
on specific problems and direct future efforts towards finding solutions to
reduce the number of firefighter fatalities in the future. This information is
also used by many organizations to measure the effectiveness of their current
efforts directed toward firefighter health and safety.
The National
Fallen Firefighter Foundation maintains the list of firefighters who die in
the line-of-duty and are honored during the annual National
Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend held each October in Emmitsburg,
Maryland.
Firefighter
Fatalities in the United States in 2007 (PDF, 3.8 Mb)
NFA
1. Instructor Jim Munger (Fire Prevention Technical) is leading the charge in placing a memorial/monument in front of Building J in memory of Richard Johnson, long time instructor, NFA Staff member and friend. I got the following from Jim this morning:
Fund raising for the Richard Johnson on-campus memorial has begun. I am working with a monument company out of Thurmont on the actual memorial design which should be completed in the next week or so. The stone marker will be placed in the courtyard area in front of “J” building.
The NFA Alumni Association has graciously agreed to handle the actual funds collected for this project. Checks are to be made out to the NFAAA with a note that it is for the “Richard Johnson Memorial”. Checks can be sent to:
Chief John Buckman, NFAAA –
Financial Secretary , 4800 Detroy Road, Evansville, IN 47720
Richard touched many fire service lives with this leadership and guidance over
his many years of teaching and active fire service career. This monument will
serve as a reminder to all of his dedication and professionalism.
The proposed marker will contain the following:
RICHARD T. JOHNSON
THE ELDER STATESMAN OF FIRE PREVENTION
1934 – 2008
A TRUE GENTLEMAN
WHO DEDICATED HIS LIFE TO THE SERVICE OF OTHERS
AND AMERICA’S FIRE SERVICE
MEMPHIS FIRE DEPARTMENT 1955-1980
DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT NFA 1980- 1983
TENNESSEE STATE FIRE MARSHAL 1983-1987
CHIEF - CONWAY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT (NC) 1994-1999
NFA ADJUNCT FACULTY 1983 - 2008
“WHAT WE HAVE DONE FOR OURSELVES ALONE DIES WITH US;
WHAT WE HAVE DONE FOR OTHERS AND THE WORLD REMAINS AND IS IMMORTAL”
JUST PLAYING THROUGH
2. We've recently asked that you answer the national poll on Firehouse.com regarding federal funding for the State Fire Training System. As you know, we and the USFA/NFA support this. Please go on line ASAP and answer another poll regarding this issue. Deputy Chief (Ret.) Tom Kennedy, FDNY works with a multi-state training consortium which is spear-heading this all important issue. We have struck a strategic alliance with them and support this project.
3. With the LODD numbers climbing rapidly (81 as of today) the Board of Directors of the NFAAA asks that you to do your part locally and make sure that were slowing down, buckling up, are staying healthy and fit and weaving safety in the fabric of every thing you do, so Everyone Goes Home. Seek out the EGH program from EveryoneGoesHome.com and get on board with the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives. Bulk up your fire prevention efforts too. Simple math: No or less fires=no or less runs=no or less injuries=no or less LODD's. Fire prevention saves firefighter's lives. (Even I could figure this one out!)
Take care, stay well and stay safe. Enjoy what's left of your summer.
Ron Kanterman, Chief NFAAA Administrator 732-594-4700 ron_kanterman@merck.com
IDHS TO ISSUE NEW PUBLIC SAFETY
IDENTIFICATION
Attention All
Firefighters - Emergency Medical Technicians - Emergency Mangement Staff - Code
Enforcement Staff - Blasters
With the completion
of the integrated database ALL personnel who are certified through the
IDHS/ILEA will receive a new Public Safety Identification (PSID) in the coming
weeks.
IDHS will mail each
certified person a certificate along with a wallet card with their new PSID.
The PSID replaces
your state certification. The PSID number is randomly generated. Therefore, you
can't request a special PSID or keep your same State certification number.
DO NOT CALL THE OFFICE ASKING FOR YOUR NUMBER. That delays staff in
getting the necessary work done.
Certificates will
be mailed out within the next week for all currently certified persons.
We realize this
will create some conflict but it is necessary to complete this database
upgrade. We appreciate your patience and cooperation in this matter.
John M
Chief
Fire
and EMS Certification
302
W
Direct
317-417-3695
Email jbuckman@dhs.in.gov
SOUTH BEND FIRE DEPARTMENT BUGET CUTS
PLEASE VISIT www.firefighterclosecalls.com
For more information.
BIG FIRE, BIG COLLAPSE, BIG CLOSE CALL AT THE BIG BUDGET CUT FIRE
DEPARTMENT:
As we sent out yesterday, the South Bend (IN) FD is under the
gun for the possible loss of about 60 FIRE positions. And
now this morning.....a fire has collapsed a grocery store in South Bend
and 2 South Bend Firefighters were sent to the hospital. FF Jared
Pearish, was injured when a wall collapsed on top of him....he was taken to the
hospital with leg and back pains and cuts on his face...officials believe his helmet
saved his life.
As budget threats and cuts continue to rip through many
of "The Nation's First Responders" (a/k/a Fire
Departments)...what people expect us to do simply may not be what we are able
to do in the future-and all affected needs to know that.
We should have some pretty amazing "on scene"
pictures of this mornings fire on our news/updates on the home page later this
evening.
IDHS COMBINED CERTIFICATION GUIDANCE
From: Chief
John M. Buckman III
Date:
07/28/08
Re:
Combined certification guidance
When a
student takes a written test for Firefighter I/II and receives a score of 70%
or more and also completes the practical skills we will begin issuing one
certificate that certifies them as a Firefighter I/II.
When a
student takes a written test for Fire Instructor II/III and receives a score of
70% or more and also completes the practical skills we will begin issuing one
certificate that certifies them as a Fire Instructor II/III.
This
procedure will be implemented for all combined tests and certifications.
The
exception for combined certificates will be when an individual requests IFSAC
certification and pays for two separate certificates we will produce two
certificates.
Questions or
comments should be directed to jbuckman@dhs.in.gov
John M. Buckman III, CFOD, GiFire
Chief
Fire
and EMS Certification
302
W. Washington Street Room E-208
INDIANA DEPARTMENT of ENVIORNMENTAL
MANAGEMENT
Compliance Assistance Opportunity Fire
Training
To: Indiana
Local Fire Departments
From: Phil
Perry, Compliance Branch Chief
Office
of Air Quality
Date: July 23,
2008
Re: Compliance Assistance Opportunity Fire
Training
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) would like to
remind all Indiana fire department’s that in addition to obtaining the required
open burning approval, for the purpose of fire training using buildings or
structures, under 326 IAC 4-1-4.1(a)(1), fire departments are also required to
submit an Asbestos Renovation and Demolition Notification, as required by 326
IAC 14-10. IDEM’s Office of Air Quality
Compliance Branch has established a program offering assistance to Indiana fire
departments with open burning fire training applications and asbestos
renovation and demolition notification procedures when conducting live fire
training.
The assistance program is voluntary and is designed to assist
Indiana fire departments in obtaining an open burning approval as well as submitting
an asbestos renovation and demolition notice.
The program is designed to help Indiana fire departments obtain the
necessary approvals efficiently and quickly, ensure environmental regulatory
compliance, and reduce environmental and resource costs. Our staff will be able to provide information
about open burning approval process requirements, the proper completion and
timely submittal of the asbestos renovation and demolition notification forms
and information about obtaining an Indiana licensed asbestos building
inspector.
If you have
questions regarding open burning training approvals or the associated asbestos
renovation and demolition notification requirements please contact Ms. Autumn
Vandine-King at (317) 233-5672 or (800) 451-6027.
If you would
prefer complimentary, confidential compliance assistance on air, water or waste
requirements, please contact the IDEM's Compliance and Technical Assistance
Program (CTAP) at (800) 988-7901 or (317) 232-8172. You may also visit them on the web at http://www.in.gov/idem/compliance/ctap/index.html.
I hope you
will take full advantage of this opportunity and find it both useful and
productive.
INDIANA LODD
It
is with deep regret that we notify you of the line of duty death of Seals
Ambulance Service (Indianapolis) Paramedic Mark Marvel.
Paramedic Marvel
was providing emergency medical coverage during a concert Friday evening at the
Verizon Music Center when he suffered an apparent heart attack. Attached are
the complete funeral, IVFA Memorial Service and visitation arrangements.
Mark E. Marvel, 45,
Mark was the director of training for the Seals
Ambulance Service in Fortville. He was a certified primary instructor and
certified in ACLS, PALS, PHTLS, EPC, and CPR. He was also a
fire instructor and a Nationally Registered EMT - Paramedic. Mark was a
member of the Cicero Township Volunteer Fire Department in Tipton, and had
worked for
Along with his wife and parents, Mark is also survived
by one son Justin T. Marvel and wife Holly of Noblesville, one stepson
Jason L. Scruggs of
Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday July
30, at
In lieu of flowers the family ask that memorial
contributions be made to one of the following, Seals Ambulance Service, 3956
Culligan Ave. Indianapolis, IN. 46218 for sponsorships of future paramedic
students, the Cicero Township Volunteer Fire Department, 750 Development Dr.
Tipton, IN. 46072, or the Noblesville Fire Department, 135 S. 9th St.
Noblesville IN. 46060.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home, Tipton, is in charge of the arrangements.
IAFC MEMBER ALERT: FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: IAFC National Programs Department, Mutual Aid Staff
703–273-0911 • www.iafc.org/mutualAid
Comments Needed: Incident Command System Forms
Please submit specific comments or suggested changes no later than August 19,
2008, using the NIMS ICS Forms Comment form, available on the IAFC’s website
under Mutual Aid > EMC (see Toolbox). When
submitting feedback on the forms, please make sure to fill in the form name,
the form number and the block number of the form you are commenting on if
applicable.
Please send all feedback and any questions related to this review to FEMA-NIMS@dhs.gov.
Thank you in advance for your help to improve the ICS forms. If you have any
questions, please contact program staff at FEMA-NIMS@dhs.gov or 202-646-3850.
-end-
2008 ERG's
Now Available - Additional Haz-Mat Info
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
GUIDEBOOK 2008
NOW AVAILABLE!
Tim Lenk, WA TF1 provided the following information on the 2008 HAZMAT Emergency
Response Guidebook. I pass this along for those of you interested in this
information and ask you to do the same.
The Emergency Response Guidebooks are turning out to be overly popular.
DOT has a web page with information on alternate sources for the information
noted in the message below. It appears that they are moving away from
publication to electronic access. The pocket PC for Windows Mobile and
Palm units is slick. The WISER product can be used on Blackberry devices
and it's fast, but also work from a desktop which may be convenient in a PSAP
since it has a feature to look up items based on
characteristics.
http://webwiser.nlm.nih.gov/getHomeData.do
The Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG2008) was developed jointly by the US
Department of Transportation, Transport Canada, and the Secretariat of
Communications and Transportation of Mexico (SCT) for use by firefighters,
police, and other emergency services personnel who may be the first to arrive
at the scene of a transportation incident involving a hazardous material.
Guidebook Page:
http://hazmat.dot.gov/pubs/erg/guidebook.htm
The ERG2008 Mobile software for Windows Mobile Pocket PC PDAs http://hazmat.dot.gov/pubs/erg/Erg_PocketPC_Setup.exe
and Windows-based PCs,
http://hazmat.dot.gov/pubs/erg/ERG_Windows_Setup.exe
as well as the data files (Excel format) are now available on our hazmat
website. PHMSA and Hazmat Safety homepage: both link to ERG page; http://hazmat.dot.gov/pubs/erg/guidebook.htm
Dave Webb
Acting Chief
US&R Branch
Field Operations Division
Disaster Operations Directorate
DHS FEMA
Office: 202-646-3456
Cell: 202-498-8877
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT BEGINS MANDATING HIGH-VISIBILITY
VESTS FOR EMERGENCY RESPONDERS
On November 24 2008, a new federal
regulation (23 CFR 634) goes into effect mandating that anyone working in the
right-of-way of a federal-aid
highway must be wearing high-visibility clothing that meets the requirements of
ANSI / ISEA 107; 2004 edition class 2 or 3.
This requirement will apply to all emergency responders.
There is further information on the Responder Knowledge Base website including
links to download some of the relevant documents, information concerning ANSI /
ISEA 207 Public Safety Vests, certain exceptions for police officers, and
information about proposed rules changes to later expand the law to cover all
public roadways.
An extensive write-up of the issues involved can be found at the following URL:
https://www.rkb.us/contentdetail.cfm?content_id=200647
The additional information can also be accessed by searching for
"23CFR634" using the keyword search box on every page of the
Responder Knowledge Base.
https://www.rkb.us/contentdetail.cfm?content_id=197344
INDIANA SMOKE DECTECTOR LEGISLATION
All Indiana Fire
Chiefs:
Effective
July 1, 2008 important legislation takes effect concerning smoke detectors. The
new Statutes can be found on the IDHS Website at www.in.gov/dhs
The
changes in the Statutes include:
- Except as provided in section in section 5.5
of this chapter, a person who violates
IC 22-11-18-3.5 Dwellings; installation of smoke detectors commits
a Class D infraction.
- A landlord who violates section 3.5 of this
chapter:
(1)
at the time the landlord
delivers a rental unit to a tenant; or
(2)
if the smoke detector is
hard wired into the rental unit’s electrical system, by failing to repair or
replace the inoperable smoke detector not later than seven (7) days after
receiving written notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the need
to repair or replace the inoperable smoke detector under section 3.5 (e)(2) of
this chapter; commits a Class B infraction. However, the offense is a Class A
infraction if the landlord has a prior violation for an offense under this
section.
- Sec. 7. (a) At the time a landlord delivers a
rental unit to a tenant, the landlord shall require the tenant to
acknowledge in writing that the rental unit is equipped with a functional
smoke detector.
(b) A
landlord and a tenant may not waive, in a rental agreement or separate writing,
the requirements under IC 22-11-18-3.5 concerning smoke detectors.
- A tenant shall:
(6) Ensure
that each smoke detector installed in the tenant’s rental unit remains
functional and is not disabled. If the smoke detector is battery operated, the
tenant shall replace batteries in the smoke detector as necessary. If the smoke
detector is hard wired into the rental unit’s electrical system, and the tenant
believes that the smoke detector is not functional, the tenant shall provide
notice to the landlord under IC 22-11-18-3.5(e)(2).
- Upon the request of an owner or a primary
lessee who resides in a private dwelling, the fire department may inspect
the interior of the private dwelling to determine compliance with IC
22-11-18-3.5
Jim
Bennett
Phone
317-243-2443
FAX
317-233-8494
jbennett@dhs.in.gov
IndianaFirefighter.com would like to Thank IDHS Certifications Section Chief Tony Pagano for his many years of service to Indiana and the Fire and EMS providers.
Tony has been the GO TO point man for many issues involving EMS and Fire Training for many years. I personaly can’t begin to count the number of issues that Tony has assisted me on dealing with to achieve the desired outcome. Tony has been a good friend and outstanding resource person we all have come to rely on for many years. His replacement will have to work hard to achieve the honor and respect Tony has earned over the years.
KUDOS to Tony Pagano for a job well done, and we wish you well as you begin your new position as District 5 Exercise Coordinator.
Randy B.
My
last day as Certification Section Chief will be July 11. I have been doing this
job for many years and thought that I would like to try something new. I am
going to be the district 5 exercise coordinator and am looking forward to my
new assignment. It has indeed been a pleasure working with you and I will treasure
the many great things we have been able to accomplish together. My email
address will remain the same so do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of
any assistance. The posting for my current position is on the State job
bank. If you are interested please feel free to apply.
Tony
Pagano
Section Chief,
Certification
Indiana Department
of Homeland Security
Training
Division
(317)232-3985
EMS PRIMARY INSTRUCTORS
AUTISM TRAINING NOW REQUIRED!
EMS
Instructors, When you are putting together your courses for this fall you
should consider adding the Autism training that was offered to you last year.
According to a new law that was passed this last year, all personnel must take
a course approved by the EMS Commission on Emergency Response to Autism. At the
May 16 Commission meeting, the Commission approved the training course
developed by the Indiana Resource Center for Autism. If individuals have taken
this course during the past year they will not need to repeat it, but they will
need to report it. Everyone certified by the EMS Commission will need to have
this training completed by October 31, 2010. If you have not been through the
training you can contact your local school district or the Indiana Resource
Center for Autism for help in putting this training on.
If
there is interest we can arrange to do another round of train-the-trainer
sessions. Please contact me by email if you would attend. All First Responder
and Basic EMT courses starting on or after January 1, 2009 must include
Emergency Response to Autism training. All certified personnel must take and
report the training.
Tony
Pagano
Section Chief,
Certification
Indiana Department
of Homeland Security
Training
Division
(317)232-3985
Northeast Indiana Emergency Vehicle Show
Saturday
September 13, 2008 Hires Park – Huntington, Indiana
Show Starts at 10 am – 4 pm
Judging from 11 am till 2 pm
Free to the Public
This Show Is For Publicly Owned (Government) or Privately
Owned Emergency Vehicles
First Responder Type Vehicles Such As: Fire Trucks, Police Cars,
Ambulances,
Police / Military Motorcycles, Military Vehicles and
Specialty Vehicles
First 200 Vehicles Register Receive N.E.I.E.V.S. Dash
Plaques
Show will conclude with a Lights and Siren
Parade
Activities Extra
Activities
Fire Suppression Demo
Car Show Awards: Classes, People’s Choice
Extrication Demo
Specialty Awards: Most Unique, Furthest
E.R.T. Team Demo
50/50 Drawings
K-9 Demo’s
Subway Sandwich Eating Contest
Patient Packaging Demo
Pedal Car Races for the Younger Kids
Fire Dept Water Ball Competition
Dunk Tank
5 – K “Run For Rescue” Begins at 8 am
Emergency Equipment Vendors
U.S.93.3 COUNTRY CAMPAIGN TRAIL APPEARANCE,
CONCESSIONS IN THE PARK, MUSIC ALL DAY
Northeast Indiana Emergency Vehicle Show Registration Form -
Saturday Sept. 13, 2008 Rain or Shine No Refunds
NAME: __________________________________ Address:
________________________________________
City: _________________________ State: _______ Zip:
_____________________
Publicly Owned: [ ] Dept./ Organizations Name Privately
Owned: [ ]
Veh. Year: __________ Make: ______________________________
Model: _________________________
Register Vehicle: $10.00 make Checks payable to Huntington
County Rescue
Address to: Northeast Indiana Emergency Vehicle Show
C/o: Huntington County Rescue - 755 So. Briant St. -
Huntington, Indiana 46750
No Alcohol Permitted. Not responsible for accidents or
injuries/damage to persons or vehicles.
More Information 260-358-8746 or
www.northeastindianaemergencyvehicleshow.com or www.huntingtoncountyrescue.com
To:
All Indiana Fire Departments
Date:
06/07/08
You
recently received the Technical Rescue training curriculum developed by the
Indiana Firefighter Training System in partnership with the Indiana Fire Chiefs
Association Technical Rescue committee.
Included
in the mailing is a CD that contains all of the instructional and student
materials. The funding for the development of this curriculum was provided by
the IDHS/Firefighter Training System.
This
curriculum meets the Board of Firefighter Personnel Standards and Education
certification requirements for the technical rescue awareness levels. There are
seven (7) categories included in this training package:
- Rope
rescue awareness,
- Vehicle
machinery rescue awareness
- Confined
space rescue awareness
- Structural
collapse rescue awareness
- Trench
rescuer awareness
- Water
rescue awareness
- Wilderness
rescue awareness
Instructors
who teach the materials must use a proctor to conduct a written test. The Lead
Instructor for a course must register with the Certification section to receive
a test and additional training materials. The student must achieve a written
score of 70% to achieve certification. The students must complete an
application for certification.
Additional
copies of the student manuals are available at no charge upon request. Written requests
must be provided to the Certification section 30 days prior to the start of the
course. Electronic requests should be sent to: nelliott@dhs.in.gov
If
you did not receive the training package please email me. They are sent only to
registered fire departments.
John M. Buckman III, CFOD, GiFire
Chief
Fire
and EMS Certification
302
W. Washington Street Room E-208
Direct
317-417-3695
Email jbuckman@dhs.in.gov
NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION
Guide
to the Hometown Heroes Survivors' Benefits Act Now Available on Firehero.org
» Guide: Attorney General's Guide to the Hometown
Heroes Survivors' Benefits Act
The Attorney General's Guide to
the Hometown Heroes Survivors' Benefits Act is now available in electronic
format on Firehero.org and Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB)
Program Website.
The Bureau of Justice
Assistance will be mailing a copy to each fire department and law enforcement
agency nationwide. This document is for information purposes and should be
stored with your department records.
» Download: Attorney General's Guide to the Hometown
Heroes Survivors' Benefits Act
INDIANA LODD
It is with deep regret that we notify you of a Line of Duty
Death.
INDIANA: Eaton,
Indiana FF Jay Maddy has died in the Line of Duty. Firefighter Maddy and
the Eaton VFD had responded to numerous arson fires since Wednesday
evening -- 21 in less than 24 hours. A curfew was imposed and a
"fire watch" was established but a few hours after operating at
the fires, Firefighter Maddy was taken to a hospital with chest pains and he
died a few hours later.
Firefighter Maddy was 41 years old and is survived by his wife and two
sons -- ages 14 and 15.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
NOTE-We have also been advised
that 2 suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the series
of fires. Eaton is approximately 50 miles northeast of Indianapolis.
The Secret List
Billy G.
It is with deep
regret that we notify you of the line of duty death of Eaton, Indiana Volunteer
Firefighter Jay C. Maddy.
Firefighter Maddy
and members of the Eaton Volunteer Fire Department had responded to numerous
arson fires since Wednesday evening -- 21 in less than 24 hours. A curfew was
imposed and a "fire watch" was established. Several hours after
concluding his duties which also included assisting in the preparation of an
upcoming Fire Department Memorial Day Fundraiser, Firefighter Maddy was taken
to a hospital with chest pain. He died a few hours later.
Firefighter Maddy
was 41 years old. He is survived by his wife and two sons -- ages 14 and 15.
A
full firefighters funeral is in planning, times and instructions
will follow at later time.
Any
questions or offers for assistance can be directed to Tim Baty, Hamilton
Township Fire Chief at 765-744-7513, acting as PIO for the Eaton Volunteer
Fire Department.
Funeral
arrangements are pending.
Please keep the
Maddy and Eaton Fire Department families in your thoughts and prayers.
CONGRATULATIONS
Indianafirefighter.com
would like to Congratulate Chief John Buckman IDHS Indiana Firefighter Training Section who recently received
an Indiana Governor's Awards for Outstanding Service and Contributions to the
State of Indiana and IDHS. John has played a major role in the development of
the Indiana Firefighter Training Delivery System.
NATIONAL EMS EDUCATION STANDARDS
The
National EMS Education Standards Draft 3.0 can now be found at www.nemses.org.
As a member of the
Mayor Riley Endangers Fire
Fighter Lives with Sofa Store Report Cover-up
IAFF and Local 61 to initiate legal,
political, public pressure campaign over Sofa Store fire report delay
Media Contact: Jeff Zack, 202-360-9778
Washington – International Association of
Fire Fighters General President Harold Schaitberger issued this statement today
about the long delay of the Sofa Super Store investigative report announced by
Mayor Joe Riley late Friday evening.
“If Mayor Joe Riley is serious about keeping
the fire fighters he is responsible for safe on the job, he needs to release
the investigative report by the panel of experts immediately. The report is finished and all stakeholders -
Charleston fire fighters, families of the fallen Nine, citizens - want it out
now.
"The expert panel that produced the
report said they discussed and used information from federal investigations, so
that fake excuse used by Mayor Riley to attempt to indefinitely delay and bury
it has been exposed as a fraudulent tactic.
"The reality is the report is said to
detail flaws in the practices of the Department’s command. Any delay in releasing the report is another
day the Mayor is irresponsibly risking the lives of the men and women who serve
the city under the most dangerous of circumstances.
“The report is not the property of the
Mayor. The report is the property of the citizens of Charleston, reflecting
their own civic responsibility to their fire fighters, and releasing it now is
the Mayor’s special obligation to the Nine.
"The panel should formally turn the
report over to the Mayor and the citizens of Charleston without delay this
Tuesday, as originally planned.
“My job is to protect the men and women of
IAFF Local 61, and I have already authorized the strongest legal, political and
public pressure campaign we can muster to reverse this dangerous, malicious
delay.
“We will appeal directly to the citizens and
ask them to express their outrage. We
will appeal to the media to make sure the Mayor’s negligence regarding fire
fighter safety is exposed. We will appeal to the City Council. Beginning this Tuesday, we will appeal to
federal and state officials and elected leaders in South Carolina to bring
pressure on Mayor Riley, and to the courts if appropriate."
The IAFF is the world’s largest fire
fighters union, representing 288,000 fire fighters and emergency medical
professionals across the United States and Canada.
EMERGING-ISSUES
Please see the study from the NVFC and FEMA posted under the
Firefighter Safety & Survival section Titled “Emerging-Issues” in PDF
format. Great motivation for change. Document has some interesting information
including:
"*Four hundred and forty firefighters out of 1,006
(or 43. 7 percent) who died on the job experienced sudden cardiac death,
typically triggered by stress or exertion.
*Fifty percent of all volunteer firefighter deaths and 39-percent of career
firefighter deaths resulted from a heart attack.
*Ninety-seven percent of the victims had at least a 50-percent arterial
blockage.
*Seventy-five percent of the firefighters who died of a heart attack were
working with known or detectable heart conditions or risk factors, such as high
cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes."
Are your firefighters required to have comprehensive physicals
prior to joining and are they getting periodic physicals after they join?
BREAKING NEWS
April 14, 2008
For Immediate Release
IDHS Announces New
Leadership Positions
INDIANAPOLIS
(April 14, 2008) – Joseph E. Wainscott, Jr., executive director of the Indiana Department
of Homeland Security (IDHS), today announced two new hires and two promotions
to leadership positions.
Michael
Garvey has been promoted to the position of chief of staff and Brad Thatcher
will be the new director of training. Jason D. Hutchens has been hired as the
new director of planning and Arvin Copeland has been hired as the new director
of emergency response.
Mike
Garvey, a
Brownsburg resident, was promoted from chief deputy for the Indiana State Fire
Marshall, a position he has held since 2005 to chief of staff for IDHS.
He has served IDHS and its predecessor agencies in various management positions
since 1985, and has an extensive background with Indiana’s statewide efforts
with emergency medical services and response, bioterrorism preparedness and
emergency cardiac care. Other positions with the State of Indiana include
training coordinator for EMS, deputy director for EMS training and
certification, acting director of the Indiana EMS Commission and deputy
director of the EMS division.
He grew
up on the west side of Indianapolis and graduated from Northwest High School.
As chief
of staff, he will provide professional assistance to the IDHS executive
director, performing high-level management work covering a broad range of
activities, including supervision of staff and representing IDHS and the
executive director internally and externally.
Brad
Thatcher has
been promoted to director of training. Over the course of his career, Thatcher
has a variety of supervisory, investigative, law enforcement and military
experience.
He was
promoted from the post of assistant director of training, a position he’s had
since November of 2005. He served as acting director of training from
April-November of 2005. Prior to the transition to IDHS, Thatcher was director
of the preparedness division for the Indiana State Emergency Management Agency.
He also served in the positions of training and exercise branch manager and
local comprehensive emergency management planning branch manager.
Thatcher
has been a chief investigator for a private company specializing in undercover
narcotics and theft investigations, and also spent eight years as a special
deputy sheriff in Marion County. In 2002 he retired from the United States Army
Reserve after a 24-year career.
The IDHS
training division provides or coordinates training, continuing education, and
exercises for the state's public safety practitioners. The division's
associates currently provide training in emergency management, emergency
medical services (EMS), fire services and hazardous materials. In
addition to its training efforts, the division maintains certification records
for Indiana firefighters and EMS personnel.
He is a
graduate of Noblesville High School.
Arvin
Copeland has been
hired as the new director for the division of emergency response. He will begin
his duties April 21.
Copeland
has a background in firefighting, emergency management and as an elected
official and comes to IDHS from the Hamilton County Emergency Management
Agency, where he has been administrative director since 2005. Prior to that, he
was a firefighter in Wabash for 20 years, working his way through the ranks
until he was named chief, and served in that capacity from 1995-99. He gave up
firefighting after being elected mayor of Wabash,
Copeland
earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Indiana Wesleyan
University, and has a certification in professional emergency management, and
fire master certifications in tactics, management, investigation, inspection
and as an emergency medical technician instructor.
Until
2005, Copeland was a lifelong resident of Wabash and graduated from Wabash High
School.
The IDHS
Division of Emergency Response assists local emergency response leaders who
coordinate or support local incident management at major or complex emergencies
or disasters. The division also assists individuals and local
jurisdictions with recovery from natural or manmade disasters, in addition to
coordinating mitigation programs designed to reduce the impact of future
disasters on a community.
Jason
D. Hutchens has
been hired as the new director for the division of planning. He will
begin his duties April 28.
The
Bargersville resident comes to IDHS from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute,
where he was chief deputy. He is an attorney with significant public policy
experience.
As
director of planning, Hutchens will oversee comprehensive planning assessment;
assist in the development of a single, statewide strategic, operational and tactical
plan; assist local entities through planning and grants assistance; and provide
support for other divisions internal and external to the agency with incident
and event specific planning requests.
Hutchens
is an associate fellow with the Sagamore Institute for Policy Research in
Indianapolis and an adjunct instructor for the School of Public and
Environmental Affairs at Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis.
Previous experience includes chief administrator of special projects at the Marion
County Justice Agency and coordinator of the Indianapolis Violence Reduction
Partnership; and research fellow at the Hudson Institute in Indianapolis where
he also was a liaison with the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office.
He also
is a member of the board of directors for the Justice Information Sharing
Practitioners (JISP), which conducts work nationally on information sharing for
law enforcement and homeland security efforts.
He
received his doctor of jurisprudence from Indiana University School of Law in
Indianapolis in May 2001 and his bachelor’s degree in public affairs from
Indiana University in 1998. He is a native of Greenwood and graduated from
Center Grove High School.
“These
appointments, along with Governor Mitch Daniels’ announcement of James L.
Greeson as the Indiana State Fire Marshal, complete the leadership team for
IDHS,” said Executive Director Wainscott.
-30-
Media Contacts
Pam Bright, 317.232.6632, pbright@dhs.in.gov
John Erickson, 317.234.4214, jerickson@dhs.in.gov
BREAKING NEWS!
Governor Daniels
selects new State Fire Marshal
Greeson’s
firefighting career has been with the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD), where
he has served as IFD chief since 2004 before resigning from the post.
Previously, he spent several years in the suppression division and earned
several merit ranks.
Greeson
will replace Roger Johnson, who left the administration effective March 24.
Johnson assisted in the governor’s efforts to create the first statewide fire
training system in the state’s history and increase the funding for materials
and instruction programs.
“It
would be hard to find a state employee who has worked harder than Roger Johnson
the last three years,” said Governor Mitch Daniels. “The fire academy and
standardized training firefighters sought for so long is largely his doing.”
Greeson
joined the IFD in 1970, advancing during his career to the merit positions of
lieutenant, captain and battalion chief. Other key positions he has served in
include deputy chief, deputy chief of operations and deputy chief of
administration.
In
addition to IFD, he has served on organizational committees and boards with the
2004 World Swimming Championships, IFD Promotion Process Committee, 2001 World
Police and Fire Games, Indiana Public Safety Training Institute, Greater
Indianapolis Firefighters Credit Union and the Indianapolis Metropolitan
Professional Firefighters Union Local 416.
The IDHS
Division of Fire and Building Safety investigates suspicious fires, promotes
prevention, administers building plan review, enforces fire and building safety
codes in all public buildings, regulates and coordinates emergency services,
emergency medical services and hazardous material response and oversees and
conducts inspections of child care facilities, boilers and pressure vessels,
elevators and amusements.
Greeson
will start as fire marshal later this month or in early May.
Indiana State Fire Marshal Roger Johnson
leaves IDHS.
IndianaFirefighter.com would like to take this opportunity to thank Roger for his dedication and leadership he provided to the Indiana Fire Service.
Roger took the time to listen to firefighters across the state of Indiana, and was instrumental in gaining support, development, and funding to create the first ever, Indiana Firefighter Training Delivery System. Roger Johnson has superseded almost every state fire marshal, by actually giving Indiana Firefighters something in return.
I have had the opportunity to work with Roger on many occasions, and on many issues, that at times we often did not see eye to eye. Roger remained professional and provided guidance and leadership second to none.
IndianaFirefighter.com would like to thank Roger Johnson for his service, leadership and guidance, and for his dedicated service to protecting the lives of the Indiana Fire Service, and we wish him well with his future endeavors.
Respectfully
Randy Brown
James L. Greeson, Indiana’s New State
Fire Marshal
IndianaFirefighter.com would like to welcome Chief James L. Greeson to his new position of Indiana State Fire Marshal.
Marshal Greeson brings with him, many years of expertise as a firefighter and chief officer of the Indianapolis Fire Department, and his reputation precedes him.
IndianaFirefighter.com looks forward to working with Marshal Greeson on the many issues and challenges that face the Indiana Fire Service.
IndianaFirefighter.com welcomes Marshal Greeson to his new position and looks forward to his leadership and guidance.
Respectfully
Randy Brown
SPECIAL NOTICE:
IndianaFirefighter.com is proud to post the INDIANA SAFE FIRE SERVICE INITIATIVE below and fully supports this program however as with any Safety Initiative or Safety Program for the Fire Service, SAFETY Starts with QUALIFIED FIREFIGHTER TRAINING!
QUALIFIED FIREFIGHTER TRAINING starts with the bare minimum Nationally Recognized Firefighter Training meeting the National Fire Protection Association Minimum Qualification Standards of NFPA 1001 Professional Qualifications for Firefighters 2005 Edition.
As of April 1st 2008 The State of Indiana’s minimum Mandatory Firefighter Training Requirements still DO NOT MEET the Minimum Nationally Recognized Firefighter Training Standards of NFPA 1001 Professional Qualifications for Firefighters 2005 Edition Firefighter I/II.
DO YOU HAVE THE COURAGE TO BE SAFE?
Allowing UNDERTRAINED/UNQUALIFIED FIREFIGHTERS lacking the minimum Nationally Recognized Firefighter Training of NFPA 1001 Professional Qualifications for Firefighters (Firefighter I/II) 2005 Edition, to participate in any Emergency Response Situation has Proven to be an UNSAFE PRACTICE both here at home and across the country. A word often used during litigation involving this UNSAFE PRACTICE of using Under Trained / Unqualified Firefighters is NEGLEGENCE, and has been documented as being directly related to have caused the injury or death of firefighters on many occasions throughout the United States and abroad.
DO YOU HAVE THE COURAGE TO BE SAFE?
START WITH QUALIFIED FIREFIGHTER TRAINING!
Respectfully
Randy Brown
INDIANA SAFE FIRE SERVICE INITIATIVE
Courage to be Safe
It takes courage to act safely in the line of duty. Problem
is, many of us take safety for granted. That’s why firefighter deaths and injuries
are on the rise in Indiana.
To stop this disturbing trend, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security,
Indiana State Fire Marshal, Indiana Fire Chiefs Association, Professional
Firefighters Union of Indiana, Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association,
Indiana Fire Instructors Association and the Indiana Firefighters Association
have formed a coalition to inform, educate and change some of the ways we
respond, deploy and manage emergency situations.
A barrage of safety messages and training programs will be released through the
Indiana Department of Homeland
Security Firefighter Safety Initiatives website, station posters, speakers,
podcasting and webcasting in an effort to instill responsible safety habits in
our daily firefighter lives.
But that’s only half the mission. The other half is YOU.
Firefighters are brave leaders. We are held to high standards off and on the
line of duty. As the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words.” We must
make saving ourselves as strong as our desire to save others.
This year, next year, and for the rest of our firefighting careers, safety will
be our mantra. This is not a short-lived campaign filled with shallow words; it
is a campaign with a deeper purpose: to save your life.
Gear Up. Buckle Up. Size Up
From the time you “get the call” to the time you arrive on the
scene, safety should lead the way.
Is your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ready and in working order?
Do you buckle up in your car and in the emergency vehicle?
Do you know what you’ll be faced with when you arrive on the scene?
What’s your response?
Gear Up
Depending upon the type of emergency, Personal Protective Equipment varies from
what we wear in the station to what we wear on the scene.
Can you gear up in one minute or less? PPE should be organized for easy access
and in perfect working order: helmet, protective hood, turnout coat, bunker
pants, boots, gloves, SCBA and a PASS device. Perform a self-survival check.
Layout and organize your PPE and look for potential problems that can cost you
your life. Check the details; buttons, hooks, snaps, Velcro, name ID,
flashlight.
Gear up and put your brain in gear. Ask yourself, “Do I have everything to do
my job safely?”
Do I have the appropriate equipment for each task on the scene? Thermal
protection, injury/trauma protection, blood borne pathogen hazards?
Is my skin covered from head to toe, and is my PPE being worn correctly?
1. SCBA face pieces in place with air flowing
2. Chin straps in place
3. Eye protection in place
4. Appropriate gloves on
a. Fire fighting gloves for fire fighting
b. Rescue gloves for rescue only after fire is under control
c. Bio-hazard gloves for patient care
Then remove your PPE in reverse order, and be prepared for the next emergency.
Does your station perform basic PPE safety checks, periodic inspection and
maintenance checks as well as keeping everyone familiar with how the equipment
operates?
If you feel additional training is needed, equipment does not meet NFPA
standards, or checklists should be updated, take the responsibility to protect
yourself and your firefighter sisters and brothers. Be safe.
Buckle Up
If we are preparing for take-off in an airplane, would we even consider not
wearing a seatbelt? Would the flight attendant even let us? In fact, not
wearing a seatbelt is even more dangerous in a fire truck than it is in a jet!
Over one-fourth of all firefighter deaths occur while responding to or
returning from alarms. Most of the deaths are caused by being ejected from the
vehicle which suggests that seatbelts were not buckled.
So why do so many of us ignore seatbelt safety?
Are we thinking like teenagers? That we are invincible and nothing will happen
to us?
Are we too focused on rushing to the scene? Thinking that the few seconds it
takes to buckle up is not worth the time?
Granted, current seatbelts aren’t designed for firefighters wearing bunker gear
or SCBAs, (and we can’t even find them half the time with all the gear we’re
wearing) but belts can be adjusted to fit, so buckle
up! Otherwise, leave off the SCBA. Even if it means storing
equipment in a compartment until we get to the scene.
Until we can get vehicle manufacturers to develop a restraint system that works
for us, we must be responsible for our own safety. Every riding member should
buckle up to and from the scene. No excuses.
Size Up
Upon arrival at a scene, what’s your response? Sizing up the fireground scene
is critical for self-survival. Experience and assessing the situation, helps us
know what to expect and how to respond safely. Without warning, structures can
collapse making this the leading cause of death among firefighters.
Construction, Occupancy, Life Hazard, and Location and Extent of the Fire are
major factors in getting the big picture. As the emergency situation
progresses, communication is the key to survival.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), recommends
that we take these 10 essential steps when arriving at the scene:
1. Ensure that the incident commander conducts an initial size-up and risk
assessment of the incident scene before beginning interior fire fighting.
2. Ensure that the incident commander always maintains accountability for all
personnel at a fire scene—both by location and function.
3. Establish rapid intervention crews (RICs)—often called rapid intervention
teams—and make sure they are positioned to respond immediately to emergencies.
4. Ensure that at least four fire fighters are on the scene before beginning
interior fire fighting at a structural fire (two fire fighters inside the
structure and two outside).
5. Equip fire fighters who enter hazardous areas (such as burning or suspected
unsafe structures) to maintain two-way communications with the incident commander.
6. Ensure that standard operating procedures and equipment are adequate and
sufficient to support radio traffic at multiple-responder fire scenes.
7. Provide all fire fighters with personal alert safety system (PASS) devices
and make sure that they wear and activate them when they are involved in fire
fighting, rescue, or other hazardous duties.
8. Conduct pre-fire planning and inspections that cover all building materials
and components of a structure.
9. Transmit an audible tone or alert immediately when conditions become unsafe
for fire fighters.
10. Establish a collapse zone around buildings with parapet walls.
Knowing what to expect and being prepared for the unexpected may mean the
difference between injury and death. Choosing the safest firefighting tactic
should be based on thorough size ups. Then make an informed, intelligent
decision: is the benefit worth risking your life?
Do you have the courage to be safe? What’s your response?
BREAKING NEWS FROM THE
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Subject: Breaking News From National American Heart Association!
Importance: High
Group,
There was a special teleconference yesterday afternoon for the national faculty
and Regional ECC Chairs. There were two major announcements from the AHA
ECC Programs.
1. There is a change in the guidelines for performing CPR for lay
rescuers. Due to three major research studies that were released in late
2007 the evidence is now there for performing no breath CPR. This is to
be taught and used for lay rescuers in witnessed arrests that are
non-asphyxia in origin. For the Healthcare providers we will still teach CPR
the same way. However, in the HCP courses no breath CPR will be included
so they are aware of the differences. A HCP can perform no breath CPR if
they are functioning as a lay rescuer in a non healthcare setting. This information does not change the
current guidelines for HCP but is an addition.
As of 4pm yesterday afternoon new information was posted to the instructor
portal to assist instructors in incorporating this new information into their
classes. There is a Q&A sheet, lesson maps and a video for how to
incorporate this new material into our courses. Please refer all of your
instructors and training centers to this new info on the web site ASAP.
There is a separate announcement that is going out to all training center
coordinators.
This information was embargoed until 4pm yesterday and was not known to the
majority of the training network. There was a press release from the AHA
to the media in advance of the announcement yesterday afternoon so that they
could discuss it in the media anytime after the 4pm time yesterday.
2. A major change in the volunteer training network was also announced
yesterday afternoon. the AHA has heard our concerns about the support or
lack or it to the training network. Effective today there is a new office
in the ECC programs. It is the Office of Quality and volunteers. This is
being managed by Alan Carrington. There will be 7 new staff to support
this effort. There are two managers who are responsible for ½ of the
country and there are 5 new volunteer support specialists. Each of the
volunteer support specialists will be assigned 10 regional ECC committees to
staff in their regions. These specialists are specifically there to
support the regional ECC committees and the volunteer training network.
This means we will now have a staff person attending our regional ECC meetings
and helping us with our work! It is my understanding that we will be able
to contact these specialists through the regional service centers.
National is sending out information to the regional chairs letting us know who
are assigned specialist is and how to contact and work with
them. Once I receive this additional information I will forward it out to
you. Help is on the way!
Mark
Mark Mattes, J.D.
Director Academic Affairs
Clarian Health Partners
mmattes@clarian.org
Phone: 317-962-3929
Fax: 317-962-9320
NEW ANSI STANDARD
EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 2008
Subject: New Ansi Standard
Effective November 2008
23 CFR Part 634 states that anyone on foot working in the right of
way of a Federal Aid Highway shall be wearing a class II Ansi Vest this
includes Police Officers, Firefighters, EMS and Tow Truck Drivers. The
following Link is a powerpoint on this subject.
http://www.swiftpage2.com/elliottdonnellygroup.Ashley_Johnsen/C080328092300/3/text.pdf
If you
need any other information let me know and I will do my best to help you out.
Thank
you,
Kevin
KEVIN
SCHULTHEIS
CELL: 317-441-9430
TOLL
FREE 877-441-9430
TOWERS FIRE APPARATUS
" SERVING FIRE DEPARTMENTS SINCE 1946"
CAN YOU HERE ME NOW?
WHY NOT?
When silence isn't golden
BY LYNNETTE LUNA
On April 16, 2007, firefighter Kyle Wilson was part of a
crew dispatched to fight a residential fire in Woodbridge, Va. He died in the
line of duty.
A detailed report on the incident recently released by Prince William County
Department of Fire and Rescue concluded that problems associated with the use
of the county's Motorola digital trunked radio system contributed to the
tragedy. Issues reported by other firefighters during that incident, which was
further complicated by strong winds, ranged from signal distortion and
transmission failure to radios displaying "out of range" signals.
Fire safety advocates now are encouraging fire departments across the country
to study the incident in hopes that future tragedies could be
avoided. Prince William County's fire department, through further tests,
concluded that digital portable radios are "extremely vulnerable to poor
environmental conditions and interference of digital noise from ambient
sources, which negatively impact the ability of emergency personnel to
effectively communicate."
A handful of fire and police departments, fearing the loss of lives, have opted
to continue using analog systems even when the rest of their county's emergency
personnel are using digital trunking systems.
The common complaint, which most affects fire departments, concerns the digital
vocoder's inability to differentiate between a voice transmission and background
noise - whether a chain saw, sprayed water or personal alarm. Background noise
renders the voice transmission distorted and often unintelligible. Another
critical problem is that digital radios lose contact inside buildings. "In
most cases, it is a very political and sensitive position to abandon expensive
technology and go back to something that is old," said Daryl Jones, owner
and president of Telecommunications Engineering Associates, which manages
public safety systems throughout the San Mateo area in California. "But
many agencies are finding that complaints from line personnel, both in fire and
police, are so significant."
The Boise (Idaho) Fire Department spent about $1 million two years ago on
mobile and portable radio equipment to join a cutting-edge countywide 700 MHz
digital trunking system. While training users on the system, the fire
department discovered problems with voice intelligibility when a firefighter's
low-air alarm went off. That led the department to investigate the issue
further, and it found more instances where alarms interfered with the quality
of voice transmissions. Today, artment and other fire departments in the county
remain on analog VHF radios while the rest of the county operates on the 700
MHz digital trunking system.
"Right now our dispatch center wants to dump VHF," said Paul Roberts,
a captain with the Boise Fire Department, "[and] we are trying to look at
alternatives to at least get on a system that will lessen the load on
dispatchers having to patch all of this together. ... But until there is a
solution to the digital processing of speech when you have competing noises, we
have to stay on analog."
The problems associated with digital systems became known in 2006. Since then,
the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) established a Digital
Problem Working Group and appointed Chief Charles Werner of Charlottesville,
Va., to serve as its chair. So far, the working group has explored the creation
of a best practices solution to work around the problem until a long-term
solution can be found. Prince William County's findings have been forwarded to
that group for inclusion in the process.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) also is analyzing the
problem, as are radio manufacturers such as M/A-COM and Motorola. They are
expected to jointly release a formal analysis - in conjunction with the IAFC -
that encompasses best practices to help departments to minimize the problems.
"We're running through this scientifically and hope to distribute a wrap-up
summary shortly," Werner said.
Roberts, who chairs the IAFC testing group, says the testing - conducted by
radio engineers - involves taking words that sound alike and requiring the
listener to distinguish which word is being said over the background noise of
chainsaws and hose sprays.
Motorola declined to comment, saying it was cooperating with the testing and
awaiting the conclusions from NIST and the IAFC.
But Chris Lougee, vice president with LMR vendor Icom America, older technology
would help solve these background noise problems. "Everyone knew from the
beginning that the P25 vocoder was a half-rate vocoder. As you speak into the
microphone, you are converting human voice into a data stream that is
reassembled at the end," Lougee said. "TIA ... is encouraging a move
to a full-rate vocoder, which we are doing. It vastly improves the amount of
audio and quality."
Lougee added that, scientifically speaking, digital signals penetrate buildings
better than analog signals. "I'm puzzled by that problem," he
said. "All of our testing shows that a digital signal produces a
higher-quality signal in noise conditions than an analog signal."
Nevertheless, perception has a nasty way of becoming reality, and first
responders' perceptions are based on what happens in the field and
exacerbated by complaints from the front line.
"The perception of quality of communications in my opinion is much lower
on trunked radio systems because it's always based on a comparison of what an
agency had before," Jones said. "If they are coming off an analog
system that provided 100% coverage and go to a digital trunked system that has
different characteristics and less coverage, it's going to be worse."
However, others say the problems have to do with training, as digital systems
operate differently than analog. For instance, digital systems
require key-up time, forcing first responders to hold down the transmission key
longer before they can begin talking. "It's a long and arduous process to
educate police and firemen to change the way they have always
communicated," Jones said.
But Roberts says best practices aren't the total solution. "They can be
easily implemented on a normal day-to-day basis," he said, "but take
the same firefighting crew and put them in a panic state. Then I would argue
that a lot of best practices are not always utilized."
The Phoenix Fire Department peth the issue. In 2004, the department gathered
radio experts and conducted a study of a 700 MHz/800 MHz digital trunked system
that covered a 2000-square-mile area. The study concluded that radios lost
contact inside buildings and that users often encountered delays and background
interference. The department today still operates on a VHF analog system,
despite the fact that the rest of the city operates on a digital system.
"Back when we first started working on this project and told our working
group that we needed simplex channels, we got a lot of guff about it,"
said Leif Anderson, deputy chief with the Phoenix Fire Department. "It
took us a month or two to finally give them enough information about our
problems. ... The SWAT team is now using our simplex channels because they
can't have a delay for critical communications."
Today, the department is close to finding a way to bridge its analog system
with the rest of the city so that dispatchers don't become overwhelmed with
patching the communications systems together, Anderson said. For nearly two
years, the department has been studying the use of digital vehicle repeaters
(DVRs) mounted on fire trucks that surround the incident area.
"Think of DVRs as being two mobile radios linked together, one working in
simplex and the other in duplex or trunked mode," Anderson said.
"We'd use the simplex mode when talking to each other on the fireground,
but messages to the dispatch center go through the duplex mode."
The Phoenix Fire Department has done much testing of the DVRs around dense
buildings that typically pose significant transmission problems. The department
is now at a nearly 100% success rate. Now it is moving its existing drills
throughout 19 different cities in the department's jurisdiction of about 2500
square miles.
Additionally, the fire department has developed standard operating procedures
in case they lose communications. The procedures mostly involve a peating
messages. For instance, to ensure a fireground message reaches the dispatch
center, an incident commander on the outside - who also would have heard the
message on the simplex radio - relays the message to the dispatch center. "We've
always done this back forth, and it's always been successful," Anderson
said.
The operating procedures also involve some changes to the DVRs. "There
aren't many customers who use DVRs in simplex-to-trunked mode," said
Anderson, "so our vendor had to do some algorithm work. We want every
apparatus to have a master/subordinate relationship. If one failed, the next
one would take over." Futurecom Systems is the department's DVR vendor.
In the future, Anderson expects firefighters to carry radios, such as the
Motorola XTS 5000 radios, with multiple decks and talk groups that will enable
first responders to do their jobs much the same way they do today. A call would
be dispatched, and the firefighter would be told which tactical radio channel
to switch to - simplex or trunked.
For Anderson, it has been a long and arduous process. "We have a saying,
`The sooner we resolve this problem, the sooner we get to go back to the
station,??" he said. "That applies here."
OSHA RULES
Here's some info and the link to new OSHA PPE Rule. The final rule
must be implemented by May 15, 2008.
There are some departments that still do not provide PPE for their members so I
thought I would pass this on. If your writing a grant for PPE and/or
SCBA this rule is good supporting documentation.
Web Link: http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=FEDERAL_REGISTER&p_id=20094
Excerpt:
Table V-2.--Examples of PPE for Which Employer Payment Is Required
[If used to comply with an OSHA standard]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metatarsal foot protection.
Special boots for longshoremen working logs.
Rubber boots with steel toes.
Shoe covers--toe caps and metatarsal guards.
Non-prescription eye protection.
Prescription eyewear inserts/lenses for full face respirators.
Prescription eyewear inserts/lenses for welding and diving helmets.
Goggles.
Face shields.
Laser safety goggles.
Fire fighting PPE (helmet, gloves, boots, proximity suits, full gear).
Hard hat.
Hearing protection.
Welding PPE.
Items used in medical/laboratory settings to protect from exposure to
infectious agents (Aprons, lab coats, goggles, disposable gloves, shoe
covers, etc).
Non-specialty gloves:
Payment is required if they are PPE, i.e. for protection from
dermatitis, severe cuts/abrasions.
Payment is not required if they are only for keeping clean or for
cold weather (with no safety or health consideration).
Rubber sleeves.
Aluminized gloves.
Chemical resistant gloves/aprons/clothing.
Barrier creams (unless used solely for weather-related protection).
Rubber insulating gloves.
Mesh cut proof gloves, mesh or leather aprons.
SCBA, atmosphere-supplying respirators (escape only).
Respiratory protection.
Fall protection.
Ladder safety device belts.
Climbing ensembles used by linemen (e.g., belts and climbing hooks).
Window cleaners safety straps.
Personal flotation devices (life jacket).
Encapsulating chemical protective suits.
Reflective work vests.
Bump caps.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
D. Replacement PPE
Replacing PPE that is no longer functional is crucial to
employee safety and health. OSHA finds that timely replacement of PPE is more
likely to occur when the employer is responsible for bearing the cost. OSHA is
requiring employers to not only pay for the initial issuance of PPE, but also
its replacement, except when the employee has lost or intentionally damaged the
PPE.
In the proposed rule, OSHA did not include language in the
regulatory text setting forth an employer's obligation to pay for
replacement PPE. However, in the preamble to the proposal OSHA stated:
OSHA intends to require employers to pay for the initial
issue of PPE and for replacement PPE that must be replaced due to normal wear
and tear or occasional loss. Only in the rare case involving an employee who
regularly fails to bring employer-supplied PPE to the job-site, or who
regularly loses the equipment, would the employer be permitted to require the
employee to pay for replacement PPE (64 FR 15414).
Rehab Manual
USFA Releases New
Emergency Incident Rehabilitation Manual for Firefighters and Other Emergency
Responders
EMMITSBURG, MD. -
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), working with the International Association
of Fire Fighters (IAFF), has issued an updated version of the manual Emergency
Incident Rehabilitation. The revised manual examines critical topics
related to emergency incident rehabilitation, including operational issues,
human physiology, weather issues, and technology and addresses ways to better
protect firefighters and other emergency responders through the use of proper
protective clothing and improved tactical procedures. The manual released
today updates the original USFA document published in 1992.
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/research/safety/incident.shtm
INDIANA BOARD OF FIREFIGHTING PERSONELL STANDARDS AND
EDUCATION
MEETING MINUETS
Just Follow the link for the latest meeting minutes. www.in.gov/dhs/3314.htm
REALITY CHECK!!!!
There were TWO Firefighters not very far from us (in PA) that died
today-both were burned. One FF lived for about a week and then died. The other
died immediately at the fire. Before I go any further, this is a message from
Pine Township Engine Company Chief Chris Holmes...he wrote this about his
brother: (his Brother was the FF who was burned over 75% of his
body last week and then died this morning)
"....this morning my brave little
brother lost his fight against his burns he sustained last Friday trying to
rescue a woman from her apartment, he was 21. Brad is and will always be my
HERO. And to all the supporters out there I send you my deepest appreciation
and love. Your support has helped myself and my family deal with this tragic
event. I cannot tell you how much this means to myself, my family and my
department, there is a lost for words. There are so many brothers and sisters
out there that we never knew we had....Brad, Rest in Peace Little Brother, I
LOVE YOU FOREVER...Your Admirer and Loving Brother. Chris...."
Additionally, the Assistant Chief was the Firefighters Dad...so
the Chief lost his Brother and the Asst Chief lost his Son. The Firefighter
died while attempting the search and rescue of a Woman trapped....and she died
as well.
This morning (pictures below), a Firefighter from Delaware County
(PA) was operating in a dwelling fire (the occupants escaped and were out) when
something went wrong. I spoke to a friend who was on the RAT team and the FF
was horrifically burned....it took them a while to get him out and he
died....in the Line of Duty.
What else could go wrong? How about
this: The above Firefighters Dad went to the hospital, was told his Son didn't
make it and the Dad had a heart attack.
Why this e-mail? As a reminder of just how critical (at LSFD and
ANY FD) issues such as:
-strictly following of orders and our policies
-FULL PPE (bunker gear, gloves, hoods etc) without ever having any
exposed skin
-breathing SCBA air and not breathing crap
-water supply establishment
-strict personnel accountability
-determining RISK to OUR Firefighters
(interior/exterior operations...do we HAVE to go in? What will we
gain?)
-stretching lines and getting WATER on the fire (which may work
best EXTERIOR in some cases)
-assuring assigned tasks are done (hydrant, water, venting,
search, the right tools etc)
...amongst all that is expected of you.
As you have heard the Chief reiterate: “We will risk a lot to save a lot, We will risk little to save
little, We will risk nothing to save nothing.” Keep this in
mind every second of every day.
What is the BEST way you, as a Firefighter can be prepared?
Informal and formal TRAINING. Each and every shift. If you have a large crew-great.
If you have a small crew? Train as well. If you have to work together-you will
be at a fire together-then take time to train-together. Train with your PT
members. Train with your FT members. Train on your own-when appropriate and
safe. Every shift-every day. Do it as a team. Do it as a shift. Do it as a
partner. Do it by yourself. USE DUTY TIME WISELY.
In coordination with LSFD District Chiefs, Captains, Lieutenants
and Sr. Firefighters, find time everyday for a review and some basic hands
on TRAINING....there is always some time for:
5 minutes reviewing the LSFD EOM for a "policy of the
day" refresher? Yes.
10 minutes reviewing an LODD from the news or fire websites?
Yes.
12 minutes checking YOUR bunker gear and making sure it is all
ready? Yes
15 minutes doing a tool review? Yes.
20 minutes checking YOUR SCBA and related equipment. Yes.
30 minutes showing how a tool works? Yes.
15 minutes discussing a FF safety/survival article? Yes
10 minutes explaining and asking about a nozzle? Yes.
5 minutes checking a tool we rarely use? Yes.
3 minutes checking your pockets to make sure your tools are in
there? Yes.
1 minute checking to make sure your radio is charged and ready?
Yes.
There is ALWAYS time for some level of "basics" training
on what you are responsible for...no mater what shift you and your crew
work....PLEASE do not waste it.
Additionally, we have numerous NEW Firefighters. Those
Firefighters should generally be found on the apparatus floor-learning,
touching, using, working ANY tool and any piece of equipment that they will be
asked to use. New Firefighters have little
time for anything else when on duty....and the Senior members and
Officers have an incredible opportunity to SHOW THEM how to do this job. As
shown above..."an hour or 2 here and 5 minutes there" can add up to a
better skilled and better SURVIVING FIREFIGHTER....no matter what shift or
hours any FF works.
There have been NUMEROUS STRUCTURAL FIRE LODD'S lately....and
there is much we (all of us) can learn from each one. Spending a few minutes
every single day making sure our skills are the best they can be, can go a long
way to help us all count on each other and survive.
One of the best ways to honor Firefighters who give their lives it
to take time to think, take time to train and be ready in the areas you are
counted and expected to perform on....every single day.
IDHS Announces
Changes To Fire Course/Test Applications and
Fire Officer
Strategy and Tactics Reference Material
Fire Course and Testing
Application Changes
The Indiana Department of
Homeland Security, Division of Training announces online applications for fire
courses and testing are now available. The Certification Section has been
working hard to update and streamline these application processes to better
serve the needs of fire instructors throughout the state. This new online
process allows fire instructors to submit their course and testing applications
directly from the IDHS web site at www.in.gov/dhs
. The course application may be accessed from two locations on our site,
on the LEFT side through CERTIFICATION, then FIRE CERTIFICATION, the
application is the second item on the page. Or, more directly, in the
upper RIGHT of the Home Page, in the brown ONLINE SERVICES box. The
direct link to the application is: https://oas.in.gov/hs/training/public/fireApp.do
.
This application, while allowing
for online submission, serves the instructors of fire courses and examinations
by IMMEDIATELY issuing a course / test number to the instructor. An
electronic copy of the application will be sent to the e-mail of the instructor
making the application. This confirmation will remove doubt for the
instructor as to whether the Certification Section staff has received their
application(s) or not.
The Certification Section will
continue to accept paper applications over the next few weeks but as we make
the “leap” from the sluggishness of paper to online, we will no longer be
accepting paper course or test applications after 03/28/2008.
After that date all applications will need to be submitted using this website
process. Don’t forget, the board rule requiring at least 15 days prior
notice for testing applications still applies.
You may direct questions you may
have about filling out this application to Sam Steinhilber, Test Manager
at: ssteinhilber@dhs.in.gov
or 317-695-0467.
Fire Officer Strategy and Tactics
Reference Material Changes
Based upon recommendations from
many fire instructors, the reference materials and the test validation for the
Fire Officer Strategy and Tactics certification have been updated. Effective June 1, 2008, the testing materials for
the FOST certification will reference and be correlated to Strategic and
Tactical Considerations on the Fireground, James P. Smith, 2nd
Edition, Brady Publishing and also to the objectives found in the Board of Fire
Fighter Personnel Standards and Education certification rules.
The FOST objectives are found in
the board rule cite of 655 IAC 1-2.1-7.1. The validation committee has
determined that 11 of the 55 objectives set forth by the board are not
covered or disagree with the Smith text. Those objective numbers
are: 5, 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 30, 33, 52, 53 and 55. The objectives
listed in 655 IAC 1-2.1-7.1(b) must follow the definitions found in the
following section, 7.1(c).
The reference discrepancies are
between the definitions found in section 7.1(c) and the Smith text. Instructors
must be aware of these differences and tailor their lesson plan and
instructional materials accordingly by using the definitions found in the rule.
The BFFPSE will be addressing these differences in future rule revisions, but
for now the instructor will need to make the differentiation for the students.
You may direct questions you may
have about the FOST objectives and the differences to Sam Steinhilber, Test
Manager at: ssteinhilber@dhs.in.gov
or 317-695-0467.
IFSAC Payment Process Change
Effective
immediately, the Certification Section will no longer accept cash
payments for IFSAC certification applications. Payment must
be by Money Order or Credit Card. Personal checks will not be accepted.
Corporate and public safety agency checks will be accepted. The form
required for credit card payment is available on the IDHS web site, on the Fire
Certification web page.
Special Note to Instructors
The Certification Section has been working diligently to improve their customer
service, their responsiveness, and their turn around time for the tests and
certifications provided to the fire service. Last year we provided over
30,000 fire and
We ask your help with some issues which will aid in more efficient and
effective processing of your certification and testing materials:
o Adhere to Submission Deadlines
When an application for testing
is submitted in less than the required 15 days required by board rules, the
instructor places us in a very difficult position. We are either forced
to say no and make the instructor reschedule the test or, we have to interrupt
our processing to try to meet this request. This hurts the whole system
and slows the processes for everything. Proctors returning tests weeks or
even months late cause us to have to deal with phone calls from students
looking for their certifications and requires additional work to match up information
that may be quite old. Unfortunately, it is the students who suffer when
we have to refuse to process the tests that are returned so late.
o Application Completion Errors and
Omissions
Recently, we did a survey of all
of the returned testing packets coming back for processing. We noted that
in more than 40% of the packets there were errors that caused us to have to
contact the Proctor or Instructor or Student so that it could be
processed. The time it takes us to make phone calls or send emails is
time that we could be processing your materials more quickly.
Missing information on the
applications, missing answer sheets, missing skill information, missing
signatures, etc. all add up to slow the system. You can help by double or
triple checking the information before returning it to us to make sure all of
the boxes have been completed, signatures affixed and required contents
included.
o Give Students Realistic
Expectations
o
Currently
fire certifications are running 4-6 weeks for processing. Our goal is 3 weeks
or less, but we need your help to get there. We are prioritizing the
processing of Mandatory and FF 1/2 certifications over others so that the entry
level firefighters can get to work more quickly.
o
Discourage
Phone Calls and Emails Too Soon
§
While
we enjoy talking to you and your students, each minute we are on the phone or
answering an email takes us away from processing your paperwork. Let
students know how long it will most likely take.
o
Point
Students to the Web Site
§
Certifications
will show up in our system and on our web site before they will appear in your
mailbox. Have your students check there first.
o Be Familiar With Board Rules
o
Learn
and understand the processes for certification and testing, for the process of
variances and reciprocity, for the duties and responsibilities of the
instructor, evaluator, and the proctor.
o
Know
the prerequisites associated with the course you are teaching. Students
applying for certifications requiring prerequisites they do not have or that we
do not have record of will not be granted that certification until the
requirements are satisfied. Please make sure your students know that up
front so they are not disappointed when they do not received their
certification.
We do appreciate your efforts and
dedication to public safety and want to support you the very best we can.
Please share this information with your fellow instructors and training
officers. You are encouraged to send any questions or suggestions for
improvements in the services provided by the IDHS Training Divison to Tony
Pagano at tpagano@dhs.in.gov , or John
Buckman at jbuckman@dhs.in.gov .
ATTENTION ALL INSTRUCTORS
Attention
INSTRUCTORS
March
28, 2008
CRITICAL
NOTICE
ALL
Instructors who desire to register a certification course and receive a course
number will have to do it electronically through the website.
Here
is the website address: https://oas.in.gov/hs/training/public/fireLogin.do
or
visit the Indiana Department of Homeland Security website and select
certification.
John M. Buckman III, CFOD
Branch
Chief
302
W. Washington Street Room E-208
Direct
317-417-3695
Email jbuckman@dhs.in.gov
BREAKING NEWS
J. Eric Dietz,
Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to step down as
director.
On a personal note,
I have had the opportunity to work with Mr. Dietz. What started out as a rough
and tumble introduction through some miscommunications resulted in working with
a man who displayed honor and integrity. Mr. Dietz opened up a direct line of
communications with the Indiana Fire Service Community and played an
instrumental role in development of Indiana’s first ever Fire Service Training
Delivery System and worked to ensure funding for the system.
Mr. Dietz helped
coordinate the efforts to streamlining Indiana’s government to better serve the
Emergency Service Community that in the past had always managed to be
overlooked by past governors and administrations. Although Eric is stepping
down as Director of IDHS, he will remain right here in Indiana returning to Purdue
to direct the efforts of the Purdue Homeland Security Institute as a tenured
faculty member in Purdue’s College of Technology. Eric’s Last Day will be March
14th 2008
It has been truly
an honor to have had the opportunity to meet and work with Mr. Dietz on several
issues.
BREAKING NEWS
Joe Wainscott,
Director of Training for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security has been
named as the New Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.
On a personal Note,
I have had the opportunity to work with Mr. Wainscott on many different
occasions and efforts directly affecting the Indiana Fire Service. Joe’s
guidance and encouragement has been a very valuable asset to many projects. He
has also played an instrumental role in streamlining the IDHS Training
Division, including updating many of the Fire Service Training Programs.
Joe will make the
transition between directors effortless and seamless to ensure there are no
disruptions in the services that IDHS provides.
IndianaFirefighter.com
would like to wish Mr. Dietz good luck in his return to Purdue, and thank him
for the outstanding service to the Indiana Fire and Emergency Services.
IndianaFirefighter.com
would like to extend a big congratulation to Mr. Wainscott, and would like to
welcome him to his new position as Director of Indiana Department of Homeland
Security.
Respectfully
Randy Brown
IndianaFirefighter.com
What's
in YOUR Helmet?
|
By:
Rich Nappi |
What’s in Your Helmet?
It’s an age-old
question that deserves an answer from anyone going ‘to work’. It needs to be
asked and answered every time you roll out the door.
That call could be an automatic alarm, a phone
alarm of people trapped or a difficulty breathing E.M.S.call. Some say you respond based on the information
given on a ticket, and that may be true, but not for the question I pose above.
A few have read this and thought “I’ve known
several guys with NOTHING in their helmets,” and while true, and with due
apologies to all the Truckies, that’s not what the question means either.
When we respond we put on all our PPE to board our rig of choice. What
is the last thing you put on? Usually your helmet is the last thing you put on.
You look at it as it goes up and on to see the chinstrap, the ear flap, etc.,
are all in place.
To me this is the greatest motivation moment
we can have.
In that moment it is all coming together, all
your knowledge, all the training, all the drills with the other guys on shift,
all the conferences, all the magazine reading, internet articles and emails
amongst friends and acquaintances, all of it focusing your size up for this alarm.
All well and good but I think we all also
need a gut check as we go.
I believe that everyone should tape a
picture of something near and dear to them inside the top of their helmet;
kids, wives, girlfriends, parents, even just a picture of “The Boys”. Whatever
focuses you on doing the best and safest possible in the hurricane you were
just dispatched to. It helps focus you on you, and in the case of an officer,
the men and women under you who also have someone to return to after this
latest crisis is done.
As
a bonus, after you come out of whatever incident that you were at, when you
take off the lid, you’re “ why you are thankful it went O.K.” is staring back
at you.
We
all live with the reality that we, or someone we work with, may not return from
any given job. The reasons may vary; collapse, flashover, backdraft, a drunk
driver, or a heart attack. None of it will matter if it is you or one of yours.
The loss and coping will be all that matters at that time.
One
of the reasons I love being a F.O.O.L.S. member is the ability and abundant
opportunity to “shoot the bull” with other members on any variety of topics.
And I
mean ANY other members - from Chiefs to Probies and anyone in between. You can
pick up a point that you hadn’t thought about or a different way to present a
topic to make it interesting for your crew, your boys, your Department, your
Company or your shift, whoever or whatever. A F.O.O.L.S.’ member generally
loves talking about what worked and didn’t work for them, and what could help you
whether it be for 4 guys on the apparatus floor or a 100 member department on a
Sunday morning.
I’ve
gotten power points, drills, documents and encouragement from everywhere from
Alaska to Indy to Florida and dare I even say Jersey (although I am not sure
what exit). No list would be complete without “The Secret List”- if you still
don’t know it, find out about it FAST.
Throw in those Canadian and European people and I’ve gleaned knowledge that
would have gotten me some serious frequent flyer miles without going to all
these places.
But let’s get back to the helmet.
What’s
in my helmet?
A photo of my 2 kids from Christmas
taped to the inside of my helmet
as a constant reminder of
what’s important - that I do the best job possible and make sure to return to
what’s really important to me in my life, my wife & kids, and my friends
& coworkers. And by extension the families and friends of everyone I’m
working with on any particular shift.
And for a split second to think what would
happen if I didn’t return for another photo to update the inside of the helmet.
Who would be left behind, I now consider it another part of my size up. It now
is a split second glance on the way in, almost an automatic afterthought, but I
feel better knowing it’s there. I only really notice it before if the tape has
come off and it has slipped into the band.
After particularly grueling calls it calms me
down and helps to deal with the situation at hand. My after looks are always
longer than my before but that’s only from the benefit of time. Safety is one
of the fire service “hot topics / talking points / buzz words” and this is a
constant reminder not to overlook it, ever.
So answer the question: What’s in your helmet?
National
Fallen Firefighters Foundation Change of Leadership
Emmitsburg,
MD - Hal Bruno has announced his retirement as Chairman of the National Fallen
Firefighters Foundation. He has served on the Board of Directors since 1993 and
has been the Chairman since 2000. The Board unanimously approved Bruno's
recommendation that he be succeeded by Vice Chairman Dennis Compton.
"I
considered retiring for several months," Bruno explained, "because I
believe that the Foundation needs younger leadership at this time. However, I
intend to remain active as a member of the Board, where I will continue to work
on special projects with the Foundation's professional staff-which makes up the
most dedicated and effective team I have ever known. I am grateful that Chief
Compton is able to take my place and continue to support our Executive
Director, Chief Ron Siarnicki, in carrying out our mission."
The
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation was established by Congress in 1992 to
honor firefighters who die in the line of duty and assist their families in
rebuilding their lives.
"It
is with a deep sense of gratitude and bittersweet feelings that we accept Hal's
decision," Chief Siarnicki said. "The Foundation's programs have
grown tremendously during his years as Chairman, and we are pleased that he
will continue to serve as an active member of the Board of Directors."
Bruno
had a 50-year career as a professional journalist with ABC News, Newsweek
magazine, The Chicago American newspaper, and the Chicago City News Bureau.
Away from work, he served as an active volunteer firefighter over a period of
40 years with fire departments in Arlington, VA, Port Chester, NY, and
Montgomery County, MD. He is a director of the Chevy Chase (MD) Fire
Department, a member of the District of Columbia's Friendship Fire Association
and a contributing editor to Firehouse magazine, where he has written the
"Fire Politics" column for 32 years. He has won numerous awards for
his work in journalism and the fire-rescue service.
Chief
Compton was the Fire Chief of Mesa, AZ, for 5 years and Assistant Chief in
Phoenix, AZ, for 27 years. Chief Compton has served as Chair of the Executive
Board of the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA), Chair of
the Congressional Fire Services Institute's National Advisory Committee, is
Chair of the Home Safety Council Board of Directors, and serves on the George
Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute Steering Council.
Chief
Compton was selected as the 1991 George D. Post National Fire Service Instructor
of the Year and the American Fire Sprinkler Association's Fire Service Person
of the Year in 2000. Dennis was also named the 2001 Distinguished Alumnus of
the Year by the University of Phoenix and received the 2003 Mason Lankford
National Fire Service Leadership Award. He was the recipient of the
Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award and is a
charter member of the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame.
"I
can only echo the feelings of the other Board members when we say that we
accept Hal's decision with regret. I am honored to accept the Chairmanship and
will do my best to carry on Hal's legacy," Chief Compton stated.
For
further information on the Foundation and its programs, visit www.firehero.org.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
TO FIREFIGHTER
LINE-OF-DUTY DEATH
IN THE
UNITED
STATES
See
the special report in PDF format posted under the Firefighter Safety and
Survival link.
Please note the recommendations and references made in the report.
Posted below are some of the topics made reference to in the report. Please not
that posted under the Training reference is minimum training to the national
level of Firefighter I.
Special thanks for
Chief Billy Goldfeder for passing this report on.
Respectfully
Randy B.
Incident Commander (IC) – Individual responsible for
the combination of facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures, and
communications operating within a common organizational structure with
responsibility for the management of assigned resources to effectively
accomplish stated objectives pertaining to an incident or training exercise.7
Incident Safety Officer (ISO) – An individual
appointed to respond to or assigned at an incident scene by the incident
commander to perform the duties and responsibilities specified in NFPA
standard 1521 and 1584. This individual can be the health and safety officer or
it can be a separate function.8
Personal
Alert Safety System (PASS) – Device certified as compliant with NFPA standard
1982, that senses movement and/or lack of movement and automatically activates
an audible alarm signal (which can also be manually activated) to alert and
assist others in locating a firefighter or emergency provider in danger.9
Staffing/Crew
Size (STAFF) –
(Fire Crew or Company) A group of members: (1) Under the direct supervision of
an officer; (2) Trained and equipped to perform assigned tasks; (3) Usually
organized and identified as engine companies, ladder companies, rescue
companies, squad companies, or multi-functional companies; (4) Operating with
one piece of fire apparatus (engine, ladder truck, elevating platform, quint,
rescue, squad, ambulance) except where multiple apparatus are assigned that are
dispatched and arrive together, continuously operate together, and are managed
by a single company officer; (5) Arriving at the incident scene on fire
apparatus.10 An
organized group of firefighters under the leadership of a crew leader or other
designated official.11
Rapid
Intervention Team (RIT) – Two or more firefighters assigned outside the
hazard area to assist or rescue at an emergency operation as required by 6-4.4 of
NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program.12
Training
(TRAIN) –
The process of achieving proficiency through instruction and hands-on practice
in the operation of equipment and systems that are expected to be used in the
performance of assigned duties.13
Communications
(COMM) –
Radio, telephone and messenger service networks throughout the emergency
response system necessary to facilitate direct communication from the incident
commander to officers, firefighters and emergency providers in tactical
operations.14
Standard
Operating Guidelines (SOG) – An organizational directive that establishes a
common practice or course of action during tactical operations. Guidelines are
intended to allow an incident commander and firefighters/emergency responders
to adapt to variations in incident types within the same category (e.g. single
family residential structure fire vs. high rise structure fire) while providing
overall consistency in tasks to be conducted on every incident.
Standard
Operating Procedures (SOP) – A written organizational directive that
establishes or prescribes specific operational or administrative methods
to be followed routinely for the performance of designated operations, actions
or administrative functions.15
Privately
Owned Vehicle (POV) –
A motor vehicle owned and operated by an individual firefighter, used in the
response to a call for service.
Pre-Incident
Plan (PIP) –
A document developed by gathering general and detailed data at a specific facility
to be used by responding personnel to determine the resources and actions
necessary to mitigate anticipated emergencies.16
Emergency
Vehicle (VEH) –
Any vehicle operated by a fire department member including those used for
rescue, fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials
operations, wildland, or other functions.17
Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) – The equipment provided to shield or isolate
personnel from infectious, chemical, physical, and thermal hazards.18
Health/Fitness/Wellness/Medical
(HFWM) –
The state of uniform personnel signifying a deficiency or absence of physical,
mental, or emotional capability to withstand the stresses or strains of living
and functioning in the workplace. This adverse state results from cumulative
factors including job exposures, stress and personal behavior including poor
diet and general lack of exercise.
Structural
Failure (SF) –
Structural collapse brought on by fire that precludes buildings or structural
components from functioning as designed.
Emergency
Equipment Failure (EEFAIL) – The unacceptable difference between expected and
observed performance of emergency equipment.
Act
of Violence (VIOL) –
Exertion of physical force to injure, abuse or cause death.
Act
of Nature (NAT) –
An extraordinary and unexpected natural event, such as a hurricane, tornado,
earthquake or even the sudden death of a person.
Accidental
(ACC) –
Arising from extrinsic causes occurring unexpectedly or by chance happening
without intent or through carelessness and often with unfortunate results.
Human Error (HE) – A mistake made by a person
rather than caused by a poorly designed process or the malfunctioning of
equipment.
Dangerous Substance (DS) – Synonymous with the term
hazardous materials defined as a combustible liquid, corrosive material,
infectious substances, flammable compressed gases, oxidizing materials,
poisonous articles, radioactive materials, and other restrictive articles.19 Also
includes articles or substances capable of posing a significant risk to health,
safety, or property when transported by land, air, rail or sea.20
Civilian Error (CE) – Persons who are members of
the general public and who are not fire service or other emergency services
personnel21 who in an act or condition of ignorant
or imprudent behavior unintentional cause an adverse event.
PLEASE NOTE:
The following story posted below
discusses Ohio’s new recertification process for all firefighters. The Indiana Firefighter
Special Training Task Force submitted a proposal to the Board of Firefighting
Standards and Education in 2006 that included a privision requiring
recertification of all firefighters. The Boards dicission was to wait until a
permanent funding source and a firefighter training delivery system was in
place before any action would be taken.
As of February 2008 some funding
had been secured and many if not all the training districts have been
established and or are up and running. You are urged to write the Board and
request that the proposed recommendation now be implemented.
Respectfully
Randy B.
New state law establishes training rules for firefighters
By DOUG STALEY
Firefighters in
Ohio will soon be playing by a new set of rules.
While the
changes aren’t dramatic, they will require firefighters to seek ongoing
training and certification.
The new state
law, which takes effect Thursday, also establishes new training and education
standards.
Firefighters
have always received training through their respective departments, but under
the new law, they will be required to complete 24 hours of continuing education
– either hands-on or in a classroom setting – each year. Firefighters will be
recertified every three years.
In the past,
firefighters were certified once upon initial approval of their application.
The law does not change the old requirement of 36 hours of training for a
volunteer firefighter.
The law also gives
the Ohio EMS Board’s Fire And Fire Safety Inspector Training Committee more
authority to investigate disciplinary issues involving firefighters.
Most local fire
officials view the new rules as a positive step, one that will benefit both departments
and residents. Even so, the training requirements could create financial
concerns for some departments.
Massillon Fire
Chief Tom Burgasser believes any added expenses will be worth it.
He said the
state has taken the certification process for paramedics and expanded to fire
service.
“I’ve said all
along that we need uniform training and operations throughout the department.
... When you need each other, you should be able to help each other,” Burgasser
said. “I choose to look at the positive aspects of it. I think this will
recognize (firefighting) as a profession and develop training experiences that
are recognized across the state.”
Citizens will
benefit, he said, because it will create an increased administrative commitment
to training.
That’s not to
say training isn’t already a priority with departments.
“It won’t
change any of my goals,” Burgasser said. “I’ve always wanted to have a uniform,
consistent training program.”
Perry Township
Chief Deputy Larry Sedlock also said he supports ongoing training and
certification of firefighters.
“I think it’s a
very good idea to have continuing education,” Sedlock said. “It helps to keep
our skills sharp in what we do. It’s no different than EMS. There can never be
enough education in fire and EMS service.”
The new rules
shouldn’t result in many changes for the department, Sedlock said, other than
providing more documentation to the state. Sedlock noted regular training
already is offered to the department’s firefighters.
“Our training
will continue to be as it has been,” Sedlock said. “We take a lot of pride in
our training at Perry. Our main thing is make sure everything is documented. I
don’t feel it will need to change much, if at all.”
Jackson
Township Fire Chief Ted Heck also expects the changes to be a “non-issue” for
his department. Heck said the department already does extensive training
throughout the year. In fact, the department employs a full-time training
captain, he said.
Heck’s only
concern over the new standards is how they could affect smaller departments,
which often work with tighter budgets.
“I don’t
dispute the need for those type of mandates, but again they are dumping
something in the laps of departments and providing no funding,” Heck said. “I
think it will take six or eight months to shake itself out. There will be
departments that won’t be able to comply immediately.”
The new
standards should create more accountability and expose firefighters to the
latest developments in equipment and techniques, according to Randy Stuck,
local president of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 251 and
a 27-year veteran of the Massillon Fire Department.
“I think it’s a
good idea as long as everyone is going to be treated the same so that no matter
where you go, you know the job is going to be done,” Stuck said.
INDIANA
LODD
Calling for Capt. David
Sherfick Firefighter/AEMT who was killed earlier this week in a head on
collision just outside Mooresville will be held Thurs. Jan. 7th from 4-8 pm at
Mooresville First United Methodist Church with funeral to be Fri. Feb. 8th
beginning at 10 AM in the Mooresville High School Auditorium. Burial will be on
The Funeral Procession for
the late Capt. David Sherfick will be as follows:
From
Personnel and/or
Departments willling to assist with parking and staging at the High School and
/or the Cemetary are requested to contact this writer for details.
Assistance is needed.
Gary
W. Robison,
Fire
Service Safety - Risk Manager
Indiana
Department of Homeland Security
Fire
and Building Safety Division
1-800-423-0765
- 1-317-232-2227
Toll
Free Fax- 1-877-866-3477
It is with deep
regret that we notify you of the line of duty death of
Captain Sherfick
and Firefighter/EMT Evan Kerkhof were in an
Officers at the
scene credit Captain Sherfick’s evasive maneuvers with saving the life of
Firefighter/EMT Kerkhof. Firefighter/EMT Kerkhof was airlifted to a
hospital with injuries that were later determined to be serious but not
life-threatening.
Captain Sherflick
is 40 years old and an 18-year veteran of the Brown Township Fire
Department. He is survived by a 10-year old son.
Funeral
arrangements are pending.
Please keep the
Sherflick and
National
Executive Director
SUPPORTING HEROES,
INC
Office: (502)
585-2282
Fax: (502)
585-2281
Cell: (502)
643-2677
LODD
NOTIFICATION: (877) HERO-DOWN
Indiana Responder Killed in Wreck
Story by theindychannel.com
MOORESVILLE,
Ind. --
A
Jeep Cherokee collided head-on with a Brown Township ambulance Monday
afternoon, killing both drivers, including a firefighter who was operating the
ambulance, authorities said.
The
Jeep crossed Indiana 144's center line and struck the oncoming ambulance, which
was not on an emergency run, near Mann Road a few miles southeast of
Mooresville at about 3:50 p.m., authorities said.
The
ambulance's driver, Brown Township fire Capt. David Sherfick, 40, of
Mooresville, and the Jeep's driver, James R. Hoskins, 45, of Nashville, were
pronounced dead at the scene, according to state police.
A
reserve firefighter who was a passenger in the ambulance, Evan Kerkhof, 22, was
sent to a hospital in good condition with unspecified injuries.
Firefighters
and police officers who went to the wreck site saluted Sherfick's body as it
was taken away, 6News' Tanya Spencer reported.
Sherfick
had spent nearly 18 years with the fire department. He had just dropped off a
patient and was headed back to the fire station.
"David
had the actual eat, sleep and drink fire department attitude," said Brown
Township fire Chief David Davis. "He wasn't actually supposed to be on the
ambulance, but we were covered up with run load and he was pulled off and had
to actually take this run."
"Tell
everybody we lost a good man today," a sheriff's deputy said of Sherfick.
Indiana
144 was closed at the wreck site for several hours. Police said they didn't
know why the Jeep had crossed the center line.
Hours
after the crash, firefighters gathered at the firehouse to grieve and pray for
the 10-year-old son Sherfick left behind.
"David's
son was the light of his life, and he will suffer the most of anyone for what's
happened here," Davis said.
Sherfick's
parents were vacationing in Florida when they were told of their son's death.
This notification is from Indiana Department
of Homeland Security, The Division of Fire, Building Safety, State EMS, State
Fire Marshal and Supporting Heroes, Inc.
It is with deep regret that we notify you of
the line of duty death of Brown Township (Indiana) Fire Captain David Sherfick.
Captain Sherfick and Firefighter/EMT Evan
Kerkhof were in an EMS unit when they were involved in a head-on collision with
an SUV. They had just cleared from a patient transport and were returning
to station when the accident occurred just after 4:00 P.M. (EST) Monday.
Officers at the scene credit Captain
Sherfick’s evasive maneuvers with saving the life of Firefighter/EMT
Kerkhof. Firefighter/EMT Kerkhof was transported to a hospital with
injuries that were later determined to be serious but not life-threatening.
Captain Sherflick is 40 years old and an
18-year veteran of the Brown Township Fire Department. He is survived by a 10-year
old son, Joel.
Brown Township Fire Department is located in
Morgan County, Mooresville.
Funeral arrangements are pending. When
arrangements are complete, another announcement will be sent.
Please keep the Sherflick and Brown Township
fire families in your thoughts and prayers.
Services
have been set for the late Capt. David Sherfick Advanced EMT/Firefighter who
was killed in the line of duty in an automobile accident on State Road 144 near
Mann Road in Mooresville on Monday afternoon as the ambulance he was driving
was struck head on by another vehicle.
Calling for Capt. Sherfick will be from 4-8 pm at the First United Methodist
Church in Mooresville with services to be conducted Friday, Feb. 8th at 10 AM
in the Auditorium of Mooresville High School.
Steve Brock Paramedic
EMS Coordinator
Brown Twp. Fire & Rescue
For Immediate Release
February 1, 2008
IDHS
Hires New
Jim
Bennett, an experienced firefighter and chief, is
Bennett’s
duties will include coordinating the daily activities of the emergency services
branch of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security Fire and Building Safety
Division, emergency medical services, fire investigation and hazardous material
response. He also will oversee government and inter-agency communication and
relations, and will be a liaison between the state and local fire departments.
“I’m
excited about my new position,” Bennett said. “And will do my best to keep the
people of
His job
goals include volunteer firefighter retention and expanding emergency services
to include training for incidents of terrorism.
Bennett
was a 35-year firefighter at the Connersville Fire Department and chief for the
last eight years before retiring at the end of 2007, the same year he was named
the fire chief of the year by the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association (IFCA). He
also was a board member of the IFCA for more than six years.
He has a
bachelor’s degree from
In 2007
he co-authored a bill with Indiana Sen. Bob Jackman to provide stricter
penalties to landlords who do not have a working smoke detector on their
property. The bill was not made into law last year but has been resurrected for
2008.
Under his
leadership in 2005, the
He and
his wife, Faye, have relocated to
In 2005,
the State of
-30-
INDIANA PARAMEDIC INSERVICE BOOKS
Paramedics,
Your continuing education forms are available and can now be completed online.
They are in a PDF format so you will not be able to save the information.
Tony
Pagano
Branch
Chief, Certification
Indiana Department
of Homeland Security
Training
Division
(317)232-3985
IndianaFirefighter.com would like to
send a special thanks to fellow Brother Firefighter Jeremy Brown,
owner/operator of
www.N-DEPTHFIREGRAPHICS.COM whose
talents created the AWESOME NEW www.INDIANAFIREFIGHTER.Com
Logo!
If you or your department is in need
of some outstanding Graphics, Website designs, Emblems, or Decals, please visit
Jeremy’s web site at the link posted above.
Respectfully
Randy B.
New Revised Requirements
for Emergency Medical Protective Clothing
A
new 2008 edition of NFPA 1999 became effective
last month — and it has been heavily revised to address changes requested by
end users and the industry. Many of the changes to the Standard on Protective
Clothing for Emergency Medical Operations were aimed at addressing requirements
for clothing categories where there were no certified products being made
available to the end user. It was found that in clothing items that were being
used; the earlier criteria in the 2003 edition simply did not define products
consistent with end user expectations.
Research by NIOSH, which supported the revision effort, focused on the
introduction of sensible, field-based criteria to encourage industry
participation. Key changes in the new edition include:
- Establishment of separate performance
categories to distinguish single and multiple use garments (formerly the
same strength requirements were used for both disposable and reusable
garments)
- Reconciliation of confusing criteria
for cleaning gloves and footwear covers
- The creation of three separate types of
acceptable face protection devices and related performance criteria
- Establishment of a new category of head
protection defining helmets for emergency medical operations
- The introduction of a new category of
footwear for medical care facilities.
NFPA
1999 is designed to offer a "menu" approach. The standard recognized
that different response organizations have different preferences and different
needs for protective clothing, depending on the hazards at the scene.
Generally, all responders may wear examination gloves but the use of eye and
face protection, garments, and other clothing will depend on the likelihood of
exposure and the hazard environment. The revised standard offers several
choices of protective clothing to accommodate the hazard/risk assessment of the
end user organization.
In addition, the 2008 edition of NFPA 1999 has been expanded to address both first
responders at emergency medical operations as well as first receivers at
medical care facilities. The range of clothing covered in the standard now
includes:
1. Both single and multiple-use protective garments that may either be full
body items such as coveralls and jackets or partial body items such as aprons
or sleeve protectors
2. Single-use examination gloves, cleaning/utility gloves or multiple-use work
gloves
3. Single-use medical masks, single-use eye and face protection devices, or
multiple-use eye and face protection devices
4. Multiple-use emergency medical protective footwear, medical care facility
footwear, or single-use footwear covers
5. Protective helmets
The 2008 edition of NFPA 1999 also establishes [C]BRN criteria for a complete protective
ensemble. These criteria set requirements for a combination of reusable
garments, gloves, footwear and other clothing items combined with an
appropriate respirator for protecting first responders against biological
particulate and aerosol hazards (e.g., anthrax).
Originally, NFPA 1999 was developed in response to the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration's Regulation on Bloodborne Pathogens. The standard was
established to define "appropriate protection" for first responders,
such as firefighters and emergency medical personnel who were affected by the
OSHA regulations. The principal feature of the standard is the specification of
biopenetration resistance for each of the clothing components worn during
emergency medical services. The chosen material and product tests define the
performance of these items as barriers to blood and body fluids, which may
contain bloodborne pathogens, such as Hepatitis Virus and HIV.
Garments
The most significant change in the 2008 edition of NFPA 1999 for garments is
the establishment of separate criteria for single-use items. Through 2007, all
of the certified garments were reusable, yet a significant number of disposable
garments are used). Part of the problem was that the same physical strength
criteria were being used for both single-use and multiple-use garments . Now,
appropriate criteria for each have been established. Furthermore, total heat
loss (breathability) is now only applied to full body garments (coats, jackets,
pants and coveralls). In addition, there are new design requirements to address
partial body clothing items such as smocks, aprons or sleeve protectors. These
items must be constructed such that the area of the body covered by the garment
affords complete barrier protection. For example, a garment with barrier panels
built into the front of the garment, but with non-barrier materials in the
back, would be considered unacceptable per the 2008 revision of NFPA 1999.
As with all products in the standard, garments are subject to a full product
liquid integrity test and materials are tested for viral penetration
resistance. Additional criteria are applied for evaluating the strength and
durability of the garment materials. NFPA 1999 is unique in that all tests are
performed on specimens that have been taken from garments, instead of pieces of
fabric. For multiple-use garments, the tests are conducted both in the as
received condition and after they've been laundered 25 times. Also new in the
2008 revision are criteria for trim and flammability. If visibility materials
are present, garments have to meet the national high visibility safety apparel
standard — ANSI
107. A flammability requirement has been added, but this is not the
flame-resistance requirement used in other NFPA standards. Instead, the new
test is intended to prevent the use of materials that would easily ignite and
rapidly burn.
Gloves
Three different types of gloves are specified by the standard including a
single-use examination glove, a single-use but heavier cleaning glove and a
multiple-use work glove. The workhorse product is the examination glove, which
is like any other medical glove. But NFPA 1999 establishes robust criteria for
glove performance that go beyond normal healthcare industry standards. These
include a whole glove viral penetration test, minimum dexterity, and the only
glove industry standard for protein levels in the glove material.
Cleaning/utility gloves, as the name implies, are intended for situations where
a more physically protective glove is needed. These are heavier and must meet
certain physical requirements for puncture, cut and abrasion resistance in
addition to maintaining integrity after contact with normal cleaning solvents
(e.g., bleach and hydrogen peroxide), but trade off some dexterity as compared
with examination gloves. The category of work gloves is really intended for a
situation where there are severe physical hazards present, such as vehicle
victim extrication and rescue events. These gloves are also expected to be
reusable, so they are subject to a wide range of tests that demonstrate
physical hazard resistance and durability.
Footwear
NFPA 1999 now defines three types of footwear. Standard barrier footwear for
emergency medical operations are set with criteria to demonstrate that the
footwear keeps liquids out while providing physical protection to the wearer’s
feet during emergency operations where there is potential for blood or body
fluid content. A new category of footwear has been added to the 2008 edition
that has all the requirements of emergency medical footwear but permits a
shorter height and does not require toe impact/compression or sole puncture
requirements.
This footwear is positioned for use in medical care facilities where a risk
assessment does not show significant physical hazards to exist. The standard
also addresses single-use footwear covers, which are intended to be worn over
standard footwear but provide barrier protection to the wearer’s feet. Ordinary
footwear would provide the physical protection to the foot. Consequently, the
footwear cover is tested for its overall integrity and viral penetration
resistance, as well as for cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance for base
material and abrasion, puncture and slip resistance for the wear surface
(portion of the footwear cover that contacts the ground when walking).
Face
Protection Devices
This category has gone through extensive changes in the 2008 edition to
accommodate the wide range of end user protection practices. Face protection
devices are now divided into three categories: single-use medical facemasks,
single-use eye and face protection devices, and multiple-use eye and face
protection devices. Separate design and performance criteria have been established
for each category. Medical face masks, which are surgical masks with and
without plastic visors, have to meet an ASTM standard that defines blood
strikethrough, filtration and other performance areas. The masks must further
demonstrate liquid integrity in different areas other than those specified in
the ASTM standard and must meet certain design criteria for ease of use. It
must be recognized that facemasks are not respirators and are not held to the
same rigorous viral penetration requirements as other items in NFPA 1999.
Therefore, medical masks are only intended for the lowest liquid exposure
risks. Single-use eye and face protection devices include items such as
disposable visors, faceshields and hoods. These items must meet both
biopenetration and overall integrity requirements in addition to certain
physical requirements. Most of these devices will not provide primary eye
protection and will have limitations in the amount of liquid protection
provided. Occupational eye protection device requirements in ANSI Z87.1 are
used as the basis for most of the requirements for multiple-use eye and face
protection devices, which include safety glasses, goggles, faceshields and
combination devices. Additional criteria have been added to include a simulated
spray test for integrity of joints. However, only certain types of goggles will
provide primary eye protection. In many cases, a combination of devices will be
needed to provide full eye and face protection.
Helmets
The requirements for EMS helmets are similar to those required in general
industry for hardhats as established in ANSI Z89.1, but some additional
criteria have been included to address performance of the suspension system and
chin strap. These helmets are intended to be lightweight and offer protection
at the scene of an accident. These helmets may also provide protection to
responders inside vehicles during victim transport.
Following implementation of the new NFPA 1999 standard, it is expected that a
greater variety of certified products will be made available to end users,
affording choices that are consistent with the hazards present and with
specific protection practices adopted by the responding organization.
2008
EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONFERENCE
The
2008 Emergency Response Conference is scheduled for Sept
18-21 at the Indianapolis Marriott East. This is the same location as
last year. It is time for me to start collecting names of speakers or ideas for
sessions. The Emergency Response conference will once again be in conjunction
with the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association and the Indiana Firefighters
Association. Your ideas are what makes our conference a success.
Tony
Pagano
Branch
Chief, Certification
Indiana Department
of Homeland Security
Training
Division
(317)232-3985
TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS
MATTER AT ALL LEVELS
The following stories are
TRUE and can happen right here in Indiana.
TRAINING and QUALIFICATION
DO MATTER!
The simple fact is that
every day across the state of Indiana and many other states, Fire Chiefs are
putting UNQUALIFIED
Personnel on the front
lines. Many state have NO minimum training standards or requirements for
firefighters.
As of January 1st
2008, Indiana has a mandatory firefighter training program for all firefighters
prior to being allowed to respond.
However Indiana’s
Mandatory Firefighter Training meets NO RECOGNISED TRAINING STANDARD.
The United States
Government recognizes the NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION as the authority
on Developing
National Firefighter
Training Standards. The minimum Nationally recognized training standard for
firefighters is NFPA 1001
Professional
Qualifications for Firefighters.
Failure to meet this
standard has proven to be costly, in injuries and deaths of firefighters and
the public.
(Special Thanks to John
Shafer for forwarding these stories)
Stay Safe
Respectfully
Randy B.
It’s hard for me to believe that
anyone on the face of the earth isn’t on Billy Goldfeder’s email
distribution – but just in case you missed it:
NJ Family seeks records in fatal'04 fire
Saturday, January
05, 2008
BY MIKE
FRASSINELLI
Star-Ledger
Staff
A
lawyer for the parents of three children who perished in a Warren County fire
wants to know whether the volunteer firefighters who responded were qualified
to battle the blaze.
John
D. Feeley, attorney for Jack and Nicole Crincoli and a deputy fire chief with
the City of Orange Fire Department, said a listing by the New Jersey Division
of Fire Safety obtained a year ago showed that 19 Alpha firefighters had no
record of certification.
A
lawyer representing the borough and the volunteer fire department said
yesterday that listing was not kept up to date. Attorney James McCreedy said
the only firefighters not certified before the blaze were five junior
firefighters who had only a limited role.
Feeley
said it's important to find out whether the firefighters who responded to the
March 18, 2004, blaze were trained, because having unqualified firefighters at
the fire could have put people at risk.
"It's
like putting a police officer on the street with a weapon who has never been
trained how and when to use that weapon," he said after an appearance
yesterday at the Warren County Courthouse in Belvidere.
Jack
Crincoli was severely burned, but saved his 4-month-old son, Nicholas, and
defied doctor's expectations by surviving himself. The father was hospitalized
for nearly a year. Nicole Crincoli was working at her job at a local diner when
the fire erupted.
Three
other children -- Ashley, 1, Sydney, 2 1/2, and 5-year-old Jacky Crincoli Jr.
-- died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning during the early
morning fire that tore through the wooden three-story dwelling in Alpha. It was
believed to be the deadliest event in the small borough just south of
Phillipsburg.
Superior
Court Judge Amy O'Connor yesterday told Feeley to narrow the scope of his
subpoenas seeking firefighter records. Feeley said after the hearing that he
would re-issue the subpoenas to try to pinpoint when databases were created for
Alpha firefighters who took certification exams.
Feeley
said he has "nothing but respect and admiration for firefighters,
especially volunteer firefighters," and noted that he is looking not to
blame, but for answers.
"This
is a tragic story," he said. "Three children died at a very young
age, and the mother and father suffer with this every day. We need to find out
what happened. We need to establish that all of the proper steps were taken to
save these children."
McCreedy,
the Morristown attorney representing the borough, said of the responding
firefighters, "Our position is that they were certified and they all went
to the fire academy."
"They
did what they were supposed to do," he added. "Everything I have seen
suggests that they were primarily concerned with saving lives and
property."
The
Division of Fire Safety list which Feeley obtained was later updated to note
that the Alpha firefighters were certified, McCreedy said. He added that they
weren't on the previous list because it wasn't necessary to send the
certificates to Trenton.
Also,
volunteer firefighters in New Jersey are granted immunity and "can't be
liable for how they fight a fire," McCreedy said.
Jack
and Nicole Crincoli now live in Pennsylvania with 4-year-old Nicholas, and are
expecting a child.
Louisiana
has a case pending of a similar nature relative to training qualifications. I
have summarized as follows:
Brian
and Belinda Rivet filed suit against the Vacherie Gheens Volunteer Fire
Department the Department Lafourche Parish Fire Protection District No 9 and
American Alternative Insurance Corporation. In their suit the Rivets alleged
that the Department had improperly trained its volunteers resulting in
unreasonable delays and general poor performance by the Department in its
efforts to extinguish the fire The Rivets claimed that the Department’s
gross negligence caused their house to sustain more extensive damage than it
would have if the Department had responded appropriately.
A
volunteer fireman with the Department was working in town and arrived within approximately
two to three minutes of the 911 call the volunteer firefighter had been with
the Department for approximately eighteen months at the time of the fire but he
had only minimal training and had never been on the scene of a fire.
After
a trial the jury concluded that the Department was grossly negligent in its
efforts to extinguish the fire and awarded damages to the Rivets. The
Department filed a motion for new trial based upon the discovery of new
evidence but the trial court denied the motion for new trial. The Department
then appealed the case to the State of Louisiana Court of Appeal First Circuit
where the judge reversed and the matter and remanded so that a new trial may be
conducted on all issues.
We
will wait and see, but this could have far reaching implications for
firefighter training not only in Louisiana, but throughout the nation.
http://www.la-fcca.org/Opinions/PUB2007/2007-02/2006CA0537Feb2007.Not.10.pdf
Jeff
D. Jeffrey Gleason, Director
LSU Fire and Emergency Training Institute
6868 Nicholson Drive
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70820
225-766-0600
WHY
AND HOW WE LOST OUR LIVES IN 2007
Special Thanks to Chief Billy
Goldfeder and the Secret List for passing this very important information
along!
Hey...
Here are some provisional details from the USFA on how and
where we lost our lives in 2007 from: 1/1/2007 to 12/31/2007
Number of On-Duty Firefighter Fatalities: 115
Count of Hometown Heroes: 8
Classification:
49 Career 42.6%
3 Wildland Full-Time 2.60%
2 Paid-on-Call 1.73%
59 Volunteer 51.3%
1 Wildland Contract 0.86%
1 Industrial 0.86%
Number of Multiple Firefighter Fatality Incidents: 7
Number of Firefighter Fatalities Associated with Wildland Incidents: 10
Type of Duty:
24 Responding 20.8%
11 Training 9.56%
37 On-Scene Fire 32.1%
8 On-Scene Non-Fire 6.95%
13 After 11.3%
20 Other On-Duty 17.3%
2 Returning 1.73%
Percent of Fatalities Related to Emergency Duty: 64.3%
Number of firefighter fatalities associated with suspicious/arson fires: 2
Type of Incident:
5 Wildland 4.34%
48 Structure Fire 41.7%
7 MVA 6.08%
3 Hazmat 2.60%
6 EMS 5.21%
1 Tech Rescue 0.86%
1 Outside Fire 0.86%
1 False Alarm 0.86%
41 Not Incident Related 35.6%
1 Other 0.86%
1 Unknown 0.86%
Cause of Fatal Injury:
19 Caught/Trapped 16.5%
1 Contact with 0.86%
4 Fall 3.47%
55 Stress/Overexertion 47.8%
4 Collapse 3.47%
3 Struck by 2.60%
26 Vehicle Collision 22.6%
2 Lost 1.73%
1 Other 0.86%
Nature of Fatal Injury:
16 Asphyxiation 13.9%
3 Crushed 2.60%
7 Burns 6.08%
2 CVA 1.73%
33 Trauma 28.6%
1 Electrocution 0.86%
52 Heart Attack 45.2%
1 Other 0.86%
Age of Firefighter When the Fatal Injury Was Sustained:
5 - Under 21
6 - 21 to 25
9 - 26 to 30
26 - 31 to 40
31 - 41 to 50
21 - 51 to 60
16 - 61 and Over
Percent of Firefighter Fatalities Under Age 40 37.4%
Type of Activity:
14 S&R 12.1%
2 IC 1.73%
11 Advance Hose Lines 9.56%
2 Extrication 1.73%
1 Standby 0.86%
3 Ventilation 2.60%
24 Responding 20.8%
3 Support 2.60%
3 Water Supply 2.60%
1 Scene Safety 0.86%
2 Other 1.73%
2 Unknown 1.73%
46 Not On Scene 40%
1 Unknown 0.86%
Time of Fatal Injury:
9 0100-0259
4 0300-0459
3 0500-0659
4 0700-0859
14 0900-1059
13 1100-1259
7 1300-1459
12 1500-1659
8 1700-1859
19 1900-2059
6 2100-2259
11 2300-0059
5 Unknown
Month of the Year:
8 January 6.95%
11 February 9.56%
7 March 6.08%
7 April 6.08%
13 May 11.3%
15 June 13.0%
13 July 11.3%
14 August 12.1%
10 September 8.69%
5 October 4.34%
6 November 5.21%
6 December 5.21%
Firefighter Fatalities by State by Location of Fire Service Organization:
3 Alabama 2.60%
1 Arkansas 0.86%
1 Arizona 0.86%
8 California 6.95%
1 Connecticut 0.86%
1 District of Columbia 0.86%
4 Florida 3.47%
1 Georgia 0.86%
2 Idaho 1.73%
5 Illinois 4.34%
3 Indiana 2.60%
5 Kansas 4.34%
3 Kentucky 2.60%
1 Louisiana 0.86%
4 Massachusetts 3.47%
1 Maryland 0.86%
1 Maine 0.86%
5 Michigan 4.34%
1 Mississippi 0.86%
8 North Carolina 6.95%
1 Nebraska 0.86%
5 New Jersey 4.34%
9 New York 7.82%
5 Ohio 4.34%
1 Oklahoma 0.86%
10 Pennsylvania 8.69%
11 South Carolina 9.56%
3 Tennessee 2.60%
3 Texas 2.60%
1 Utah 0.86%
1 Virginia 0.86%
1 Washington 0.86%
2 Wisconsin 1.73%
3 West Virginia 2.60%
Firefighter Fatalities by State by Location of Fatal Incident:
3 Alabama 2.60%
1 Arkansas 0.86%
1 Arizona 0.86%
9 California 7.82%
1 Connecticut 0.86%
1 District of Columbia 0.86%
4 Florida 3.47%
1 Georgia 0.86%
1 Idaho 0.86%
5 Illinois 4.34%
3 Indiana 2.60%
5 Kansas 4.34%
3 Kentucky 2.60%
1 Louisiana 0.86%
4 Massachusetts 3.47%
2 Maryland 1.73%
1 Maine 0.86%
5 Michigan 4.34%
1 Mississippi 0.86%
8 North Carolina 6.95%
1 Nebraska 0.86%
5 New Jersey 4.34%
8 New York 6.95%
5 Ohio 4.34%
1 Oklahoma 0.86%
10 Pennsylvania 8.69%
11 South Carolina 9.56%
3 Tennessee 2.60%
3 Texas 2.60%
1 Utah 0.86%
1 Virginia 0.86%
1 Washington 0.86%
2 Wisconsin 1.73%
3 West Virginia 2.60%
For more information, go to: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/
Take Care,
BillyG
The Secret List 1-3-07 / 1532 Hours
CHARLESTON
Finding a lesson in local tragedy
Experts hope fire departments around the nation will learn from
sofa store deaths
By Ron Menchaca , Glenn Smith
The Post and Courier
Monday, December 31, 2007
Experts hope fire departments around the nation will learn from sofa store deaths
Charleston's
deadly Sofa Super Store blaze already is one of the most studied fires in
recent history, and experts hope its lessons will help reverse a steady parade
of firefighter deaths across the nation.
Despite
improvements in training, equipment and tactics, about 100 firefighters die on
duty each year in the United States.
South
Carolina leads the country in firefighter deaths this year, accounting for
nearly 10 percent of the nation's 114 on-duty fatalities. Nine men died in the
June 18 fire in Charleston; two more died in vehicle crashes in other
communities.
Chief
Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters
Foundation, said heart attacks traditionally have been the leading cause of
on-duty deaths. But the fire service has seen a noticeable increase this year
in the number of firefighters killed while battling blazes.
Also
disturbing is an increase in fires that claim multiple lives, like the sofa
store blaze, he said. Texas, California, New York and Massachusetts also
recorded multiple deaths in single incidents.
Gordon
Routley, who leads a panel of consultants studying the sofa store blaze and the
Charleston Fire Department, said firefighting will always carry inherent risks,
but many of these deaths are preventable. "These are particularly
frustrating. We are not inventing new ways to kill firefighters. We keep doing
it the same way," he said.
Firefighters
around the country have bemoaned the fact that so many men were sent into
harm's way at the sofa store fire. The building included several elements known
to injure or kill firefighters, including a vulnerable steel truss roof, an
enormous volume of combustible materials, a confusing and densely packed
layout, and no fire sprinklers.
Routley
serves on a national board that has been working since 2004 to reduce
firefighter deaths. He said firefighters need more training in building
construction and materials to better recognize potential dangers so they can
pull back when the risks are too great.
Today's
buildings are constructed with more lightweight and synthetic materials that
burn quicker and hotter. Yet many firefighters receive little training in
recognizing these materials or the warning signs of an impending flashover, a
process in which super-heated contents or structures spontaneously ignite.
A
flashover reportedly occurred at the sofa store, sending a rolling ball of
flames through the building while firefighters were inside.
Even
when the dangers are known, Routley said, many firefighters don't understand
the concept of retreat.
Canada
and many European countries experience far fewer firefighter deaths than the
United States because their fire departments place a strong emphasis on safety,
Routley said.
"You
can get better hardware and better training, but you really have to get into
the mind-set of people to say 'How do you approach the job?' The mind-set in
the United States is you have to get the job done, and if you have to violate
some of the safety rules to do it, so be it," he said.
Firefighting
experts from around the country gathered in 2004 at a summit in Tampa, Fla.,
devoted to reducing firefighter fatalities. The greatest challenge they
identified: changing a professional culture that encourages risk-taking.
"A proud tradition of bravery and raw courage is one of the fundamental
components of the established American fire service culture," the group
stated in a follow-up report this year. "A culture that takes pride in
confronting potential death with raw courage has difficulty adapting to health
and safety concerns as organizational priorities."
Siarnicki,
of the Fallen Firefighters Foundation, reviews firefighter fatality reports
from across the nation and said he sees too many preventable deaths year after
year.
"I
can take a stack of them and just white out the names, the dates and the
departments. And they all read the same," he said. "We really need to
change the culture of the fire service and how we do business."
With
an estimated 1.1 million firefighters serving in paid and volunteer departments
around the country, disseminating the lessons drawn from firefighter fatalities
and ensuring that all fire departments adopt them is a slow process, said
Gregory Cade, administrator of the U.S. Fire Administration.
Cade,
sometimes referred to as President Bush's fire chief, said the sofa store fire
and the city's response should be a wake-up call to city and fire department
leaders across America, who might think such devastation won't strike in their
backyards.
"I
applaud the mayor and fire chief in Charleston. It's hard to look at yourself
objectively when you have lost nine firefighters. Maybe it will make other
communities pay more attention," Cade said.
Brian
Crawford, assistant to the fire chief in Shreveport, La., and one of the
consultants studying the Charleston fire, said one reason the deaths have not
declined is because firefighters today are asked to do much more than fight
fires.
Crawford
estimates that 70 percent of the calls at an average urban fire department are
to provide medical aid. Firefighters across the country also have taken on more
responsibilities for hazardous material accidents, high-rise rescues and
disaster response. "They are simply leaving the house more," Crawford
said.
After
reaching highs of more than 150 per year in the 1970s, fatalities declined and
even dipped below 100 a few times in the 1980s and '90s. But the rate has held
steady at more than 100 the past several years. About half of the fatalities
each year stem from poor health and fitness. And each year, about 20
firefighters die in auto accidents linked to speeding or failing to wear
seatbelts.
Billy
Goldfeder, a deputy fire chief in Ohio and a host of the safety-themed Web site
FireFighterCloseCalls.com, said line-of-duty deaths could likely be reduced 75
percent if fire departments adhered to modern firefighting standards, made full
use of protective equipment and other safety measures, and avoided unnecessary
risks.
In
the case of the sofa store fire, firefighters continued to battle the blaze
inside the store even after it was evacuated and a store employee was rescued.
However, it remains unclear whether the firefighters inside knew the store was
cleared.
"These
9 men horrifically gave their lives for furniture," Goldfeder said.
"Insured furniture."
The
Charleston Fire Department has good, dedicated firefighters and officers, and
they now have an expert panel guiding their efforts to rebuild and improve,
Goldfeder said. But the city was far from alone in adhering to the old ways, he
said.
"There
are other Charlestons out there (at various levels) who continue to operate
against accepted modern fire operations — many knowing it will cause a problem
— because they keep getting away with it," he said. "The CFD did,
until June 18, 2007."
Crawford
said fire chiefs across the country already are looking at their departments
and the communities they protect differently as a result of the Charleston
fire.
As
more details emerge next year about what went wrong at the sofa store,
firefighters will continue to draw lifesaving lessons from the tragedy.
"Those
firefighters' families can take comfort in knowing that the study of this fire
and the lessons that are learned will save the lives of firefighters,"
Crawford said.
“FROM
THE DESK”
2007 has proved to be a very eventful year!
Some GREAT, Some GOOD, and as all to often in our world, Some TRAGIC!
As of today, December 29th 2007,
Christmas has been and gone and the New Year is just 3 days away. I sincerely
hope all of you who read the posts on www.Indianafirefighter.com has
had a very Merry Christmas!
Over the past few months, posts to the website
have been slow. This will change in the coming weeks as I hope to keep up with
all the great information that comes flowing in my direction.
This website belongs to each and everyone of
you who works very hard to training and protecting not only the public you
serve but to TRAINING and PROTECTING each of your brothers and sister in the
BROTHERHOOD! It does not matter if you are a Fire
Officer, EMS Officer, Instructor, or just a Firefighter or Medic. You are a Top
Leader in your field by continuing to Train for tomorrow to keep each other
safe!
Through personal tragedy and events, I have
found myself semi-retired from active service, working hard to soon return to
active service. Meanwhile I keep up to date on current events as well as
training, as not to fall short on keeping my fellow brothers and sister safe
from the inherent dangers of the job we all choose to do.
At present I remain very active teaching and
instructing all aspect of Fire and EMS related materials, from Firefighter I/II,
Hazardous Material Awareness and Operations, EMT and Paramedic courses and
everything in between.
Legislation changes are in progress not only
at the local and state levels but at the federal level as well that will prove
to be challenging on meeting the needs of fire and emergency service providers
to help keep providers safe on and off the job.
Some of those changes will be found in OSHA
and NFPA standards as those standards are updated to today’s standards.
As dedicated professionals we must strive to
keep up on these changing standards to not only protect ourselves but to as
well deliver these changes to our peers in a correct and professional manor. OSHA,
IOSHA and NFPA standards are the foundation or minimum standards that we each
must meet to adequately perform our jobs and keep ourselves, our peers, and our
public safe.
I must remind each and every one of you that
come January 1st 2008, Indiana minimum Mandatory Firefighter
Training Standards will still FAIL to meet the minimum National Fire Protection
Association Standards for Firefighters. In 2006 the
Indiana Firefighter Special Training Task Force presented the Indiana Board of
Firefighting Personnel Standards and Education, a proposal on implementing and
increasing the minimum Mandatory Firefighter Training Requirements to meet
National Standards. These nationally recognized standards are the fundamental
foundation of basic firefighter knowledge and skills. From this core set of
knowledge and skills, more advanced levels of training are added throughout
your fire service career, that are built upon the minimum basic knowledge as
outlined in NFPA 1001 Professional Qualifications for Firefighters. Failure to
meet these minimum training requirements prior to engaging in firefighting
activities has been documented and has been proven to result in deadly
consequences.
IDHS and the Indiana Board of Firefighting
Personnel Standards and Education continue to work hard in bringing the current
standards into compliance with national minimums, as it updates the states
firefighter training programs and standards. One major leap IDHS and the Board
have made to help move towards meeting this goal was to adopt and implement the
State wide Regional Training Districts, developed and proposed by the Indiana Firefighter
Special Training Task Force.
Most if not all of these Regional Training
Districts have come online and are delivering FREE professional training
Programs throughout the State. These Training Districts were not designed to
replace your current in house training. The Regional Training Districts were
designed to assist in delivering FREE basic firefighter training courses to
your region that might otherwise prove difficult to fund by a single department
alone.
Supporting these Regional Training Districts
by serving as a district representative from your county will help your
district develop training programs that your specific area may need or want.
John Buckman, IDHS has worked very hard to
help set up these Regional Training Districts and has done an outstanding job
assisting the districts in developing their operational start up’s. I must also
give kudos to Joe Wainscott, IDHS, Tony Pagano, IDHS, Barb Gobal IDHS, Mara
Snyder, Board Legal Council, the members of the Board of Firefighting Personnel
Standards and Education, and Roger Johnson, Fire Marshal, whom also work very
hard to provide assistance to these Regional Training Districts. There are many
more individuals who have made a valuable contribution to developing and
implementing these Regional Training Districts, far to many to name, however a
big kudos to all.
I must also mention and give BIG KUDOS to
Every Member of the Indiana Firefighter Special Training Task Force for their
dedication and personal sacrifices in researching and developing the proposals
presented in 2006 to the Board.
Please help promote and support your Local
Regional Training District!
To keep Indiana, IDHS and the Board on tract,
your voice must be heard! You need to let them know that the time is now to
bring the State Mandatory Firefighter Training online and into compliance with
the minimum National Firefighter Training Standards. Let them know how they are
doing, and what they can improve upon! Don’t just point out the failures, offer
a solution. Don’t just tell them good job, tell them why! All these folks are
working very hard for you and your safety, and your guidance and feedback is
expected and welcomed!
At years end many publications, and
organizations are looking for nominations for Instructor of the Year,
Firefighter of the Year, Rescuer of the Year. I encourage you to look at some
of the hard working individuals here that are doing their part to better
protect and train firefighters. Task Force Members, IDHS staff, and Board
Members are some great nominees for some of those award recipients.
2008 will be here soon, and my hopes are that
it will bring Great Positive Changes to better protect the Brothers and Sisters
of the Fire and EMS services. I hope 2008 will be the year of the lowest Line
of Duty Deaths.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
STAY SAFE,
STAY LOW, ALWAYS REMEMBER, SHARE THE KNOWLEDGE and ALWAYS,,,, EVERYONE GOES
HOME!
Respectfully
Randy B.