FiftyOnePride

Bill Gallo, the artist from the NY Daily News wrote an interesting review of this new mini-series premiering tonight on HBO. Mr. Gallo is a Marine Veteran who fought in the Pacific Theatre during WWII:
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/more_sports/2010/03/14/2010-03-14_yes_its_as_real_as_hell.html
From Comcast:
Begins tonight 9:00 PM HBO-HD, rebroadcast 11:00 PM

I agree, the video is good to watch too. Nice job SVFD.

There've been many discussions on this board about the pros/cons, advantages/disadvantages, etc. of various staffing configurations and response times. Here's a great example of what can be done (numerous rescues and, as PEM03 said, preventing extension to exposures) when you respond with a full complement of qualified personnel in a timely fashion. It also highlights the benefits of training, pre-planning, and discipline to make sure that the two first and second due ladder companies were able to set up at the front of the fire building.
On the initial call there were (approximately)32 +/- fully qualified "interior" firefighters managed by at least one Chief and seven or eight company officers. I guess we can forget the 4 in 4 or 10 in 20.
The second alarm and third alarms brought (again approximately) 20 more firefighters plus officers to the scene and the fourth brough still another 16 plus officers. This doesn't count the support services that were undoubtedly involved (mask service, fleet maintenance, etc., etc.)
All this was in the first 22 minutes - sixty-eight firefighters plus officers and support. Add EMS and at least a dozen police officers and supervisors too.
The other interesting note in the IA (great one BTW Truck4 and you still managed to get pictures!) is that the mutual aid was relieved by reserve apparatus staffed by recalled firefighters so as not to hold equipment out of its home jurisdiction for a protracted period of time. How many departments have the apparatus to do that or organize their own personnel to release mutual aid instead of holding everyone at the scene. Didn't a recent thread on the subject of staffing say something about having 50-60 firefighters on the scene of a fire in a single family dwelling? How many weren't working and could have been deployed to other apparatus to increase available resources in that community?
I don't understand why instead of aspiring to meet NFPA and other standards, we buck them with all kinds of excuses and then criticize those who advocate a single standard to raise the bar and improve things for everyone.
Given the proximity of the exposures, narrow one-way street in front and limited access from other sides, it was indeed an impressive stop.
Before the nitpicking begins, the times and numbers are all approximated.

I recommend reading that thread, and when the NIOSH report probably comes out about it, that as well. EFDCapt has constantly reminded me to buff up on my NIOSH reports. I encourage all on here to take that proactive step and do the same, if you are not already - regardless of the circumstances, there is something to be learned or reinforced by each one.

The explosion took place in the lot of Bremer Manufacturing, a foundry specializing in aluminum castings;
http://www.bremermfg.com/default.htm
The article in the local Gannett paper:
http://www.thenorthwestern.com/article/20091230/OSH0101/312310075/1987/Firefighter-killed-4-others-injured-in-explosion-at-Bremer-Manufacturing-in-Calumet-County
Photos of the scene:
http://www.postcrescent.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=U0&Dato=20091230&Kategori=APCNEWS&Lopenr=912300806&Ref=PH

CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES: AL
* Physical data
1. Atomic weight: 26.98
2. Boiling point (at 760 mm Hg): 2327 degrees C (4221 degrees F)
3. Specific gravity: 2.70 at 4 degrees C (39 degrees F)
4. Vapor density: Data not available.
5. Melting point: 660 degrees C (1220 degrees F)
6. Vapor pressure at 1284 degrees C (2343 degrees F): 1 mm Hg
7. Solubility: Insoluble in hot or cold water, concentrated nitric acid, and hot acetic acid; soluble in hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid and alkalies.
8. Evaporation rate: Data not available.
* Reactivity
1. Conditions contributing to instability: Contact between aluminum powder and ignition sources may create a severe explosion hazard. Because it is strongly electropositive, aluminum corrodes rapidly in contact with other metals.
2. Incompatibilities: Aluminum is an extremely reactive metal. Contact between aluminum and acids, caustics, combustible materials, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and strong oxidizers should be avoided.
3. Hazardous decomposition products: None reported.
4. Special precautions: Aluminum may corrode in contact with other metals.
* Flammability The National Fire Protection Association has assigned a flammability rating of 1 (slight fire hazard) to aluminum (dust or powder).
1. Flash point: Data not available.
2. Autoignition temperature: Data not available.
3. Flammable limits in air: Data not available.
4. Extinguishant: Do not use water, carbon tetrachloride, or halon to fight fires involving aluminum. Control small fires with sand, talc, or sodium chloride. Dry chemical or carbon dioxide extinguishers are also acceptable. Fires involving aluminum should be fought upwind from the maximum distance possible. Keep unnecessary people away; isolate the hazard area and deny entry. Containers of aluminum may explode in the heat of the fire and should be moved from the fire area if it is possible to do so safely. If this is not possible, cool fire exposed containers from the sides with water until well after the fire is out, but be careful not to get water inside containers. Stay away from the ends of containers. Firefighters should wear a full set of protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving aluminum.
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/aluminum/recognition.html

Hey Moose,
Refer the Captain to this thread if he's taking dumpster fires lightly. Good for you.
http://www.emtbravo.net/index.php?showtopic=35072

The same thing happens at dumpster fires as well. I went to one and was the ONLY one wearing all turnouts and a bottle. When I was extinguishing the fire the captain stood next to me in street clothes looking me up and down and said, "Your always prepared for everything arent you?" I looked at him and said "Do you know for sure whats burning in there? What chemicals, hazardous materials, or waste including biological waste could be in there?" He just looked at me.
NEVER take any undue risks, gear up and mask up at every fire.
In the defense of the attack crew on this car fire, there WERE a lot of bystanders to put on a good show for...

I think insurance companies write off any vehicle involved with any amount of fire large or small no? Not worth it without SCBA, worry about exposures and take the time to keep your life cycle going just that much longer.

A Chief is the only one you see even attempt wearing a SCBA, granted after the fire is knocked down, just interesting to see only the Chief DTRT.

There are some places around Albany I believe if you are willing to travel that far, possibly one in Woodstock? I am unsure about the latter location but someone in Ulster or Greene might know better than I.

HELLO.......
First of all I never put down Mobile Life!!! Adjust your reading glasses!!!!!!! I never even mentioned their name!!!!! I merely stated the service that was currently being provided by Transcare!!!!!

Some older pictures of Millerton's new tanker, 51-31. It is slated for arrival on the 15th of this month, more pictures are due soon and I will post them when I can.

Islamorada (pronounced Isle-ah-more-ah-dah) is a chain of islands in the Upper Keys of Florida. The fire department has three stations, 19-20-21. The 23 brothers on the job are members of IAFF Local 4374. They work 24/48. It is a combo department with approx. 50 volunteer members on the rolls. They have a career chief. In 2009 they did about 2,500 runs; approx. 80% EMS. They have four frontline apparatus, and three ALS buses (Rescues). The department works closely with Medivac choppers, as the closest Level One Trauma Center is Jackson Medical Center up on the mainland.

Lower Matecumbe Key is home to Station 19. Here they run a 2000 Sutphen Snozzle, Hale, 1500 GPM, 500 gallon booster, and one ALS Rescue unit:

On duty this day are Firefighter/Paramedic Chris Staton(L), and Firefighter/EMT Bret Frankel:

Station 20 is located on Upper Matecumbe Key. It houses a 2008 Sutphen 75' mid-mount, Hale pump, 1500 GPM, 500 gallon booster:

Tour Commander, Captain Geo(Joe) Toth(L), Firefighter/EMT James Griffeth®:

Each firehouse has an ALS Rescue. Station 20 houses this 2006 Sterling, body by ALF:

They have a hydrant system in the Keys, and supplement their water supply with this 1999 Pierce Quantum tanker, Waterous, 1500 GPM, 3000 gallon tank:

Up to the new Headquarters building, located in Founders Park, north-eastern Upper Matecumbe:

1998 Pierce Saber, top-mount pump panel, Waterous, 1250 gpm, 500 gallon booster, CAFS system:


Station 21 Firefighter/Paramedic Andrew Gamil(L), and FF/EMT Ron Jacobs:



Many thanks to the brothers of Local 4374. Stay safe!

Thank you. I was going to just let this float off the board, what with this crazy day and the "big statement" this pilot had to make about his problems with the gov't.
Anyway, since I have this shared moment in the "spotlight" with a suicidal bass player (ironic if you look at my photo holding a guitar for Chr*st sake, but that's how it goes right?)
I want to talk a bit about the members you mentioned here, all of the members here are included in this sort of critique if you will, but I'm just going to wing it, and do the best I can with it.
First, there's Seth. Here he is today, in the heart of the madness in the country for today, just like he mentioned being in NY for 9/11. Can't the big stuff just leave the guy alone?
Seriously though, I'm here posting on a website that he created, and too often we take him for granted and some are critical because he shows his raw emotion at times. Seth, we know you've been through some tough sh*t in yor day, and you bounced back and gave us all a place to spend our time and share our thoughts. So thank you brother.
I'm no shill but come on guys, this site is growing in popularity and activitiy, and professionalism, and technical advancement. You think this is all a freebee? Some of y'all need to man up and help the guy out with some finances.....kay 'nuff said.
Chris192, flyin over all of us, keepin an eye and keepin it real. Stay safe up there bro.
Then we get to Chief Raftery. Why first amongst the posters? Cause the man earned it, that's why. Deputy Chief, college degree in fire science, published in fire engineering, one of the wittiest b@st@rds to ever post here. I'm proud to say he's a legacy of the Eastchester fire Dept, his dad worked there, I know cause I looked at his picture often in our headquarters. And here he comes on this board, modestly at first, then blasting us with that witt and wisdom he has been famous for his whole career. Thank you chief, for continuing your service, even now. And you're right, you cant get a good loaf of bread south of Philly.
Captain Nechis. Where does one start. I mean I'm old school, even though I'm still technically young. Then I meet Barry some years ago. And he starts going on about SEMO and FEMA and who the heck, and what the h*ll, and I'm like "this guy eats fire department". I'm telling you, now with this consolidation study out; you see who was involved big time right? Captain Nechis knows more in his sleep then I ever knew about the fire service. He even recerted my cpr, thanks Cap.
Chief Flynn. I never met you sir, but I have to say if you were my boss you'd have my respect. I know alot of the volunteer members here get crawly skin when you bring things up. You do stir the pot and post provocative questions. Your last name should be Johnson cause you invented the QTIP. I have NEVER met a Yonkers firefighter who didn't have a very large heart inside that gruffness. Truly a great bunch of gentlemen, from Chief Fitz to Batt 2 (I met Dennis smith once and invited Batt 2 to come, but he dissed it, haha too bad I got his autograph Kieron!) to YFD910 MY BROTHER, YFD610 who has shut up ever since chief flynn told him too (good job probie lol) love ya.
16fire5, M'Ave, our brothers from NYCEMS, it's truly an honor to have FDNY members particpate in this forum imho. You are a great job, the greatest job, lucky b@stards, stay safe all of you.
The volunterer members I communicate with in private and discuss training and fireground; gentlemen. Thank you for the respect, it comes right back at ya.
ALSfirefighter (BNechis blood relative, he just don't know it) dude, 3,000+ posts? How are dem fingers holdin up?
Chr*st, we even got a Canadian comin' down here with his "I pay for my own meals" thing goin' on, his extremely proud Class A photo. You GOTTA love that guy! Welcome Nova Scotia, the most beautiful Province. how's that medals count goin' for y'all? (just kiddin bro).
A guy from England named after 10 house. I seen them guys at the funerals. Very cool. Wish I had a chance to get England and check out Big Ben and Parliament, and then hit the pubs for a straight 24.....
All y'all. I don't wanta wind it out too far here. It's cool that I got 100 posts, but truly, if you want to look for the knowledge on this board, it's all of you combined. I'm just a knucklehead (ask ANYBODY from my job), it's good to be alive, f*** flyin a plane into a building it ain't that bad.
And the lurkers out there, chiefhac and elvis, two guys that eat fire department and had the most amazing careers, if you guys ever start posting, the whole game is gonna change here.
~Firematically,
Captain George Glover (ret)
EFD

I viewed this video earlier in the day.. I compliment them for establishing a FAST team, and I can only go by what the video shows only.
From what I saw in the video, we saw three sides of the structure, with only one ladder extended, not to say there wasn't one on the fourth, presumably the 'b' of the structure. I am not sure how many of those folks were FAST or just standby crews in staging waiting to do whatever, but I am sure there are a few rigs around them, why not ladder each side of the building for safe measure? A proactive FAST team as far IMO should be concerned with such matter themselves. Albeit no one is perfect when it comes to laddering - at least they had on raised! I have see in person and otherwise buildings without any type of laddering...
The firefighter looking to bail, I feel bad for him because he looked worn out - whether the heat and smoke got to him, or he ran out of air and took in some nasty stuff, or whatever - he looked exhausted to me, really hard to execute something like that in that condition I imagine. After a long day of training it is not so easy, I can only imagine having to do it when it hits the fan.
Circumstances are often left out of such videos, so events revolving the incident can only be judged on what was seen. I often hate critiquing a video because there is always the aspect of what we didn't see - so I am just stating that my conclusions are based on what I did see.
Stay safe everyone.

Great article Chief "Moses"!

Thanks for adding to, and bumping up this topic Lieu. I always thought since this LODD happened, we never paid enough attention to it.

So you're saying your municipal sanitation empties dumpsters? I thought dumpsters were pretty much exclusive to private carting companies. If a company violates municipal code regarding what they can or cannot dispose of, are they subjected to penalty?

This incident really concerns me. I cannot recall ever hearing or reading of an incident of this type; an exploding dumpster that killed a firefighter. We've all seen BLEVEs in our time. I also recall one incident where firefighters were cutting open the side of a Silo with a partner saw, hosing down the blade to prevent sparks when the particulate matter inside the silo exploded, blowing the cut section out and killing a firefighter.
But this incident is unique. Naturally with hindsight it's easy to say the department involved should have been aware of the occupancy; an aluminum sand casting plant, that should have raised red flags with regard to the contents of the dumpster.
Do you know the industrial sites within your response area; what they manufacture, and what they would be disposing of as a biproduct of their manufacturing? Sure if you have a furniture plant in your district you would be aware of the fire load and chemical hazards within the plant, but how many of us have the awareness to think that the disposal areas outside the plant could be time-bombs just waiting for water to be added to create an explosion hazard?
In my time, the thing that most concerned me was auto-exposure from a dumpster to the structure itself. I mostly thought if the contents contained something dangerous it would be latex paint cans, or possibly spray paint. We had numerous dumpster fires, and pulled the engine close enough to extinguish the fire with a 100' trash line. But now, after this, I think I wouldn't do it anymore.
What about a gasoline can in the dumpster, like Bill pointed out? Or a discarded propane tank, that somebody just dropped in the garbage in the dark of night?
I really think this incident should be given GREAT attention by all fire departments. The NIOSH report should be poured over by everyone. And immediately, ALL dumpster fires should be approached as if they are ALL capable of exploding, and causing death or injury to firefighters.
How about this; if there is no exposure issue with a burning dumpster, why not just automatically create a hot-zone, and do not attempt to extinguish it? I mean, what are we actually "saving" anyway? A dumpster? Certainly not the contents. IMHO, let it burn out, and stay away.
This fatal incident should be given high priority and put all departments on notice to NOT continue business as usual. Dumpsters have become EXTREMELY hazardous, and ALL dumpster fires should be treated as haz-mat incidents from now on. For God sake, this thing went off like an IED!

If we wanted free food we shoulda been cops

It is that time of year for many departments, including many last night. Just wanted to start a thread for folks to talk about their elections and post results if they want to.
Last night, we at the Millerton Fire Company held our annual elections for officers of the 2010 calender year, and the results are as follows.
Fire:
Chief: Jason Watson
Deputy Chief: Shawn Morrison
Company Chief: Jim Milton
Captain: Robbie Klippel
1st Lieutenant: Christopher Segelken
2nd Lieutenant: Joshua Schultz
Rescue Squad:
Rescue Squad Captain: Nancy Ellis
Rescue Squad Lieutenants: Mark McAvoy and Donna Flynn
Civil Officers:
President: Lennie Morrison
Vice President: Mike Segelken
Treasurer: Al Andrews
Secretary: Nancy Ellis

http://poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/200...ONTPAGECAROUSEL
Not much info, but a small description of the incident.

Date: 02/28/09
Time: 1604 - Present Time
Location: 32 Harmony Hill Rd.
Frequency: Firegrounds 11 responding, 12 on-scene.
Units Operating: DC-54, Pawling St. 1 All Equipment, CC-16
Weather Conditions: 32 Degrees, Mostly Cloudy
Description Of Incident: House Fire.
Writer: FiftyOnePride
1609 DC-54 Reports smoke in the residence.
1614 DC-54 Confirms fire on the second floor - all occupants out.
1616 Second Dispatch for Pawling St. 1, 54-11 and 54-61 have responded.
1625 Third Dispatch, Pawling to respond with remainder of st. 1 equipment, Dover St. 2 with 1 engine to cover Pawling St. 1, Patterson with 1 engine to cover Pawling St. 2, CC-16 is responding.

A little background: obvious is my affiliation with the fire service. But I am also a student of journalism at the University of Albany. This semester I took a course in magazine writing - and we are going to write a few articles, but right now we are just doing exercises dealing with the 'start' to articles.
So, here is the genre: 'how-to articles,' and I am focusing on the proper use/strategies/techniques for firefighters across the hierarchical system that exists in the service in regards to TIC use.
The help needed: I cannot just give my opinion - true objective journalism is my goal and I need sources to do this. This will only be seen by members on this site and my professor. Like I said it is just an exersize and will not come to fruition as an actual article. If you participate and choose to give me said tips and techniques, I just need an email address. I would prefer a pm for everyone's privacy.
I know this is a lot to ask but I appreciate any feedback I get. Thanks in advance.