Update on Wheeling Confined space recovery Operation–Press Conference

LODD from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Pentwater, MI

John T. Sayles of the Pentwater Fire Department in Pentwater, MI has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-13

 

Nov 15, 2012 8:55 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Kernersville, NC

Walter M. Summerville III of the Kernersville Fire Rescue Department in Kernersville, NC has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-07

Confined Space rescue (recovery)

Rescue workers remove the body of a man who died in a chemical tank Thursday at a business in Wheeling.

Cicero man dies in Wheeling chemical tank - DailyHerald.com

www.dailyherald.com/article/20121129/news/711299836

Nov 29, 2012 · ... Wheeling Fire Chief ... Illinois AP Award: Best NewsWebsite; ... including personnel specifically trained to work in confined spaces…

Turkey Fryer Fire Demonstration, presented by William Shatner & State Farm

Uploaded by statefarm on Nov 14, 2011

William Shatner knows firsthand how dangerous turkey fryers can be—so do the firefighters with the Illinois Fire Service, who staged some of the common mistakes, with explosive results.
Watch William Shatner's story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYkRF_FmD40
Safe Turkey Frying Tips
1: Avoid oil spillover--don't overfill the pot.
2: Turn off flame when lowering the turkey into oil.
3: Fry outside, away from the house.
4: Properly thaw the turkey before frying.
5: Keep a grease-fire-approved extinguisher nearby.

An advertising campaign you won't forget...

Australia's Melbourne Metro wants to relay the important message to its passengers that standing too close to train tracks is dangerous.

They of course could have done this with a simple public service announcement. Instead, they've created this cute

and elaborate cartoon with a very catchy song to get their message across.

Another LODD Just Posted On the USFA site

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Elizabethtown, NC

John McClelland Hall of the Bladen County Emergency Services in Elizabethtown, NC has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-03

Age: 48

Cause of Death: Stress/Overexertion

Rank: Deputy Fire Marshal

Nature of Death: Heart Attack

Classification: Career

Emergency Duty: Yes 

Incident Date: 11/03/2012

Duty Type: On-Scene Fire

Incident Time: 17:00

Activity Type: Advance Hose Lines/Fire Attack (includes Wildland)

Death Date: 11/07/2012

Fixed Prop. Use: Residential

Fire Dept. Info: Bladen County Emergency Services
PO Box 1646
USNG: 17S QU 1953 3455
Elizabethtown , North Carolina  28337
Chief: Bradley Kinlaw

Initial Summary: Deputy Fire Marshal Hall responded to and actively participated in fighting a fire in the Carvers Creek Community. He was also the primary investigator of the fire. During the incident, Hall fell ill and was put on bed rest. Several days later, he was taken to the hospital where he passed away from a heart related cause. Incident Location: 308 Cord Rd, Council, NC (USNG: 17S QU 3625 1328)

LODD Notices from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Fort Wayne, IN

Mark Haudenschild II of the Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department in Fort Wayne, IN has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-11

Initial Summary:  
Firefighter Haudenschild died from injuries sustained when the fire apparatus he was operating crashed as he was responding to a reported grass fire. Haudenschild was reportedly not wearing seat restraints and passed away at the scene of blunt force trauma due to the motor vehicle crash. 

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Chicago, IL

Walter Patmon, Jr. of the Chicago Fire Department in Chicago, IL has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-11

Initial Summary:  
Upon returning to quarters after helping to put out a small kitchen fire in the South Side Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, Firefighter Patmon fell ill while cleaning equipment. Patmon was treated by fellow first responders and transported to the hospital where he passed away from an apparent heart attack. Incident Location: 1500 block of West 99th Street (USNG: 16T DM 4510 1824)

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: White Oak, NC

David Mitchell Tatum of the White Oak Fire Department in White Oak, NC has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-04

Initial Summary:  
Lieutenant Tatum became sick at the scene of an emergency response but did not request treatment at that time. Later in the day, he began having trouble breathing and became unconscious. Tatum was treated and transported to Bladen County Hospital and then transferred to Cape Fear Valley Hospital in Fayetteville where he passed away from a cause still to be determined. 

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Chicago, IL

Herbert "Herbie" T. Johnson of the Chicago Fire Department in Chicago, IL has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-11-02

Initial Summary:  
Captain Johnson died from inhalation injuries sustained while operating at a structure fire. Media reports said that "Johnson died after saving several families--including many with small children--from a burning South Side home." Investigation of the fatal fire incident continues. Incident Location: 2315 W. 50th Place, Chicago, IL (USNG: 16T DM 4330 2799)

Thanksgiving is almost here

Turkey Fryers: Not Certified By UL

 

www.safetyathome.com

Seasons change and so do safety hazards. Help protect your family by staying one step ahead.

Take time to review your Home Safety Plan and involve your kids in learning all year round.

Each year, Americans prepare a whopping 47 million turkeys for the traditional Thanksgiving Day feast. However, for those who decide to center their meal around a fried turkey, the potential hazards of cooking that dinner in the turkey fryer can be far worse than putting on a few extra pounds. UL is urging consumers to take extra caution if they are going to use turkey fryers this holiday season.

Chicago FD LODD

The anxious firefighters who filled the emergency room heard the horrible news from the doctors who couldn’t save their friend. SUNTIMES

Fire Dept. Capt. Herbie Johnson, 54, a larger-than-life personality, a guy who was the central figure both in his Beverly neighborhood and on the job, was dead. GRAPHIC: Fire location

Firefighter dies after fighting Southwest Side blaze

A Chicago firefighter died on Friday after fighting a house fire in the 2300 block of 50th Place on the city's Southwest Side.

LODD Notices from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Easton, CT

Russell Neary of the Easton Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 in Easton, CT has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-10-29

 

Nov 1, 2012

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Guffey, CO

Don Felton of the Southern Park County Fire Protection District in Guffey, CO has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-10-27

 

Oct 29, 2012

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Morgan Hill, CA

Rob Van Wormer of the Cal Fire Santa Clara Unit in Morgan Hill, CA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-10-27

OK another weird coroner case–and call for ventilation

by wirecutter

DENVER - Officers responding to complaints of a foul smell in a south Denver apartment building made a gruesome yet bizarre discovery earlier this month.
Inside the apartment they found a woman's decomposing body slumped on a chair. Next to the body was a Great Dane, which appeared to be guarding the body, according to a search warrant affidavit obtained by 7NEWS.
The woman's husband was also inside, sitting on a chair in the same room, the affidavit said.
When they asked the man how long the woman had been dead, he replied, "She's not dead. She's fine," according to the affidavit. The man appeared to be either intoxicated or "out of sorts," the affidavit said.
The deceased woman has been identified as 32-year-old Michaela Beth Ford. The man was identified as her husband Steven Ford.
Neighbors said they wondered what was up when they noticed a bad smell coming from Apt. 308.
"The hallway kind of started to smell weird, but it's like, you live in an apartment building. A million different people live around here," neighbor Andrew Cosgrove said.
Police said the woman appeared to have been dead more than 10 days and her body was in an advanced state of decomposition.
A maintenance manager said he saw the husband coming and going during the previous two weeks, going to the liquor store, but had not seen the wife.
Ford has not been charged and police are apparently continuing their investigation, although they had no comment on the case on Sunday.
SOURCE

Great Video–Church fire Ada Ohio

Great Tactics training video, just goes to show that you need the right amount of water in order to out a dent in the fire. Would have liked to see what a deck gun would have done ? This occurred on 3/13/2012

Huge fire devours historic church in downtown Ada - Toledo Blade

Flames shoot out of the windows at First United Methodist Church in Ada, Ohio

 

This is the first and most complete video take from the beginning of the fire. It was filmed the rear of the church south west on Highland St. My husband had to keep moving further back because of the intense heat. Later he moved around to the north west side of the church. The sound was removed because of all the comments from bystanders. http://youtu.be/53G91JMG8LQ

Report released on set fires in residential buildings

US Fire Administration Releases Report on Intentionally Set Fires in Residential Buildings (2008-2010)

The U.S. Fire Administration issued a special report today examining the characteristics of intentionally set fires in residential buildings. An estimated 16,800 intentionally set fires in residential buildings occur annually in the U.S. These fires result in an estimated average of 280 deaths, 775 injuries and $593 million in property loss each year.

DOWNLOAD HERE Intentionally Set Fires in Residential Buildings (2008-2010) (PDF, 746 Kb)

LODD notice from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Gilmore City, IA

Larry D. Nielsen of the Gilmore City Fire Department in Gilmore City, IA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-10-09

Initial Summary: 
Fire Chief Nielsen was responding to a barn fire riding in fire department apparatus when he fell ill. The vehicle operator immediately pulled over to the side of the road and called for help. Chief Neilsen was treated at the scene by EMS responders and transported to the hospital where he passed away from an apparent heart attack. Incident Location: Vicinity of Gilmore City, IA(USNG: 15T UH 81 31) 

Have you got a code of Ethics for your department

Do you have a code of Ethics, is it followed and supported by you city , fire district or special district? It’s not something that should be taken lightly but a code to follow as your guideline to follow. It’s a mind set that should be in every firefighter from day one. Followed from the top down and the bottom up.

U.S. Fire Administration Acknowledges the New Fire Service Ethics Statement

EMMITSBURG, MD – Today’s fire service leaders face a variety of challenges managing budgets, personnel, and programs. Occasionally, ethical issues emerge for which there are no easy answers. To provide guidance to address these complex questions, the National Society of Executive Fire Officers (NSEFO) and Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) jointly have released a firefighter code of ethics that can be adopted by local fire and emergency medical service organizations. The ethics statement is the result of almost two years of effort by the Board of Directors of NSEFO.

In acknowledgement of the importance of this first of its kind fire service ethics statement, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) has posted the statement throughout the National Fire Academy’s (NFA) facilities and will now include the statement in all course materials distributed to NFA students.

To download a copy for the NSEFO statement for posting within fire department facilities and distribution, visit the USFA website at:www.usfa.fema.gov/fireservice/

Firefighter Code of Ethics (PDF, 497 Kb)

 

Firefighter Code of Ethics
I understand that I have the responsibility to conduct myself in a manner that reflects proper ethical
behavior and integrity. In so doing, I will help foster a continuing positive public perception of the fire
service. Therefore, I pledge the following…
•    Always conduct myself, on and off duty, in a manner that reflects positively on myself, my department
and the fire service in general.
•    Accept responsibility for my actions and for the consequences of my actions.
•     Support the concept of fairness and the value of diverse thoughts and opinions.
•    Avoid situations that would adversely affect the credibility or public perception of the fire service
profession.
•    Be truthful and honest at all times and report instances of cheating or other dishonest acts that
compromise the integrity of the fire service.
•    Conduct my personal affairs in a manner that does not improperly influence the performance of my
duties, or bring discredit to my organization.
•    Be respectful and conscious of each member’s safety and welfare.
•    Recognize that I serve in a position of public trust that requires stewardship in the honest and efficient
use of publicly owned resources, including uniforms, facilities, vehicles and equipment and that these
are protected from misuse and theft.
•    Exercise professionalism, competence, respect and loyalty in the performance of my duties and use
information, confidential or otherwise, gained by virtue of my position, only to benefit those I am
entrusted to serve.
•    Avoid financial investments, outside employment, outside business interests or activities that conflict
with or are enhanced by my official position or have the potential to create the perception of impropriety.
•    Never propose or accept personal rewards, special privileges, benefits, advancement, honors or gifts
that may create a conflict of interest, or the appearance thereof.
•    Never engage in activities involving alcohol or other substance use or abuse that can impair my mental
state or the performance of my duties and compromise safety.
•    Never discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, marital status, national origin,
ancestry, gender, sexual preference, medical condition or handicap.
•    Never harass, intimidate or threaten fellow members of the service or the public and stop or report the
actions of other firefighters who engage in such behaviors.
•    Responsibly use social networking, electronic communications, or other media technology opportunities
in a manner that does not discredit, dishonor or embarrass my organization, the fire service and the
public. I also understand that failure to resolve or report inappropriate use of this media equates to
condoning this behavior.
Developed by the National Society of Executive Fire Officers

And they let them vote too

This audio clip from Y94 Playhouse Fargo, ND radio station was too funny to not find a way for more people to hear it so thus, this video. A lady asks for help getting deer crossing signs moved to lower traffic areas. "The government can guide deer to lower traffic areas" ha! ha! ha! ha! ha! Kudos to Y94 Playhouse and Donna for the joy that you have given many through laughter.
Also, THANK YOU to all who have viewed it and shared it. Watching this spread has been equally entertaining for this 47 year old lady, who just wanted to share something funny with a friend or two... or three... or....

USFA report along with Consumer product Safety Commission

Kitchen Fires No. 1 in New Report

In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the U.S. Fire Administration are providing new statistics on fires in American homes and urging consumers to install smoke alarms in their homes and check to make sure all smoke alarms are working properly. It is also vitally important to develop and practice a family fire escape plan. The top cause of fires in the home is cooking equipment, accounting for an estimated 147,400 or 40 percent of residential fires each year between 2008 and 2010. Cooking was also associated with the largest percentage of fire-related injuries, an estimated average 27.4 percent or 3,450, in the home.

Major wildfire in Kittson and Marshall Counties could have been arson

Arson likely cause of County 27 Fire (Karlstad), reward offered

Fire investigators have determined that the probable cause of a major wildfire in Kittson and Marshall Counties in northwestern Minnesota was arson.  An investigation is ongoing by the Kittson County Sheriff, the Marshall County Sheriff and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.They are offering a reward of up to $6,000 for information leading to identification of the arsonist.

Anyone with information on the County 27 fire is encouraged to contact either the Kittson County Sheriff at 218-843-3535 or the Marshall County Sheriff at 218-745-5411.  For those who wish to remain anonymous, call the Arson Tip Line at 1-800-723-2020.

The wildfire started Sept. 30, at about 2 p.m. in Marshall County north of the intersection of County Road 27 and 250th Avenue NW.  By the next day, it had grown to 500 acres.  On Oct. 2, there were Red Flag Fire Warnings for western Minnesota and states and provinces to the west and north.  Temperatures were in the 70s, relative humidity exceptionally low – in the teens and sustained winds of 35 mph with gusts to 45 mph.

The Red Flag fire danger conditions led to fast moving fires that burned with extreme intensity.  The County 27 Fire spread from Marshall County to Kittson County, burned 4,440 acres, led to the evacuation of part of the city of Karlstad, damaged dozens of structures and destroyed
11 homes.

The coordinated efforts of local fire departments, wildland firefighters, sheriff’s offices, emergency managers, and the National Guard were instrumental in saving most of the homes in Karlstad.

Fires started by arsonists cost Minnesota taxpayers millions of dollars each year.  The cost to those who lost homes is immeasurable.  Please help stop arson.

Yeah, I wouldn't admit to it either

 

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — It's a complicated story, but a Thurston County, Wash., man says he managed to shoot himself in the head with a .22-caliber rifle while fishing for salmon.A sheriff's report says the man told deputies he fired a shot into the Deschutes River on Sunday afternoon but the bullet ricocheted off a rock and hit him in the temple. When he scratched the spot with his finger, he says the bullet fell out of his head and into the river.
The tale came to light although the man went home and refused to tell his girlfriend how he had been injured. After he left again, she called 911. When deputies pulled over the man's pickup truck, he told them what happened.
The Olympian reports that the man was treated at an area hospital and released. The newspaper says the man was not cited for any violations.
Grandview Outdoors

Fire Prevention Week

USFA Library - Working to Bring Knowledge to Practice

This Week's Highlights

• The first Fire Prevention Day proclamation was issued by President Woodrow Wilson in 1920 and four more ensued through 1924. Then in 1925, in the first year of his second term, President Calvin Coolidge issued the first Fire Prevention Week proclamation. This page provides access to the texts of these proclamations of the Presidents from 1920 to the present.
• Fire Prevention Week and National Security, what do these two have in common? During World War II they had a lot. See these rare World War 2 era posters for Fire Prevention Week recently scanned by the University of Edinburgh, Fire Safety Engineering Group.
• A new study just published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine evaluated the cost-effectiveness and cost benefit of smoke alarm installation and giveaway programs. It concluded that while both types of programs compare favorably with other types of home safety intervention programs the installation approach may achieve a lower cost per outcome as compared to giveaway programs. Citation . Find more studies relating to smoke alarm installation and giveaway programs.
• 141 years ago - Great Peshtigo Fire of1871 | circa 1,500 fatalities | About this incident |
• 141 years ago - Great Chicago Fire of 1871 | circa 200-300 fatalities | About this incident |

On the lighter side:  Who mastered fire? - the heated archaeological debate

Interesting fire News this week

Watching NBC's new 'Chicago Fire' with real firefighters
WBEZ
The real firefighters watched their fictional counterparts respond to car crashes, house fires and gunshot wounds. O'Brien said the biggest difference between real fires and the fires on television is the amount of smoke on a scene. “A lot more smoke ..

Minnesota News Briefs: Firefighters on alert for fires at egg carton plant
Pierce County Herald
Minnesota News Briefs: Firefighters on alert for fires at egg carton plant. The Moorhead Fire Department has been quietly staging firefighters around the clock at a company where three fireshave broken out since March. Talk about it. MOORHEAD, Minn.

Firefighters free kitten from car engine in Beltsville
Gazette.Net: Maryland Community News Online
In between responding to medical emergencies and battling blazing fires, Prince George'sfirefighters responded to the 10600 block of Baltimore Avenue in Beltsville to perform a cat rescue Monday afternoon. Around 1:30 p.m., the driver of a BMW sedan .

You know how I like pre-arrival an on arrival videos here is one from YouTube this week from Memphis Tennessee about 10 mins.

 

Couple of LODD notices from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Riverview, MI

John Grabowski of the Riverview Fire Department in Riverview, MI has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-10-01

Initial Summary: 
On Sunday, September 30, during his shift, Lieutenant John Grabowski participated in fire department training. His shift ended that day at 1800hrs. The following morning, Lieutenant Grabowski traveled to his second job. At approximately 0803hrs, Lieutenant Grabowski was found collapsed in the parking lot of his second employer. The second employer?s emergency response team tended to Lieutenant Grabowski and performed CPR. Advanced life support also responded to the scene where they treated Lieutenant Grabowski and transported him to Henry Ford Wyandotte Michigan hospital. Efforts to revive Lieutenant Grabowski at the hospital were not successful and he passed away within approximately one hour of being found in his employer?s parking lot. The official cause of death has not yet been determined.  

Sep 28, 2012 9:53 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Dagsboro, DE

Justin Townsend of the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Department in Dagsboro, DE has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-09-27

Initial Summary: 
Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for an outside fire in a wooded area on East Clogg Drive just outside town limits. While en route to Station 73 in a personal vehicle, Junior Firefighter Justin Townsend was fatally injured in a motor vehicle crash on Pepper Road, in the area of Jay Patch Road. No details of the accident are available at this time. The Delaware State Police Crash Reconstruction Unit is currently conducting an investigation into the fatal incident. Incident Location: Fire: Wooded area on East Clogg Drive (USNG: 18S VH 7696 6949). Fatal MVA: Pepper Road near Jay Patch Road (USNG: 18S VH 8015 5977). 

New USFA Report on Home Heating Fires

US Fire Administration Releases Report on Heating Fires in Residential Buildings

Fall begins this Saturday, and with it comes cooler temperatures and the resulting seasonal increase in the number of home heating fires. To help Americans understand the nature of the heating fire problem, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) today issued a special report: Heating Fires in Residential Buildings (2008-2010). Heating is the second leading cause of all residential building fires. Home heating fires are preventable! USFA reminds everyone to maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

LODD Notices

 

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Wenatchee, WA

Chris Seelye of the USDA Forest Service in Wenatchee, WA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-09-17

Initial Summary: 
Firefighter Chris Seelye, under contract with the USDA Forest Service, suffered a medical emergency while battling the Wenatchee Complex Fire. Firefighter Seelye was treated by incident medical personnel and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he passed away later that evening

 

Sep 18, 2012

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Atascocita, TX

Neal W. Smith of the Atascocita Volunteer Fire Department in Atascocita, TX has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-09-15 

 

Initial Summary:
On Saturday, September 15, during a smoke diver class designed to train firefighters advanced survival skills in full gear, Captain Neal Smith passed out from a heat-related illness. He was transported to a hospital during which CPR was administered. Captain Smith remained in critical condition until Monday, September 17, when he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 6:30 p.m. Doctors reportedly determined that Captain Smith's body temperature was more than 106 degrees.

Few New Posted on arrival and pre arrival videos

TheBravestOnline.com. Working Fire in Fort Worth, Texas. Neighbors film as firefighters make the attack.

Published on Sep 19, 2012 by lehighsbravest

Palmer Township, Pa-- Palmer Townships Fire Commissioner pulled out of the station and confirmed the worker at 3029 Old Nazareth Pike this afternoon. First arriving ladder 2721 grabbed the plug at Swanson Street and made a short lay in, crews stretched a line and made entry to the fire which was blowing out both gable end vents in the attic. Palmers engine arrived next and took roof operations while crews from Nancy Run set up the FAST assignment, Hecktown's crews stood by for manpower. All in all first arriving responders rescued 2 pets and had the fire knocked with in 5 minutes of arrival. All companies were held on the scene to assist with some minor overhaul, negative injuries were reported.
Companies On-Scene: Palmer Fire & Police, Nancy Run Fire, Hecktown Fire, Suburban EMS
Pictures:http://tinyurl.com/chvccju

Published on Aug 23, 2012 by lehighsbravest

Allentown, Pa-- Companies working on the 4th alarm in the 800 block of N. 8th Street. Nine homes were reported effected by the fire and five firefighters were transported to the hospital.
Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire on the first floor of a 3 story M/O/R, a 2nd alarm was transmitted. 4A requested a supply line a 2nd line and make entry to the fire floor. Truck 2 set up on the alpha side and went to work with roof operations. Companies had issues with the alley behind the row limiting access to engine and ladder companies.
Crews went to work on division 1 with heavy fire on the 1st floor dining room and extension rolling to the 2nd floor. Updates from the outside were heavy fire rolling out the rear, with this Chief 40 requested the 3rd alarm.
The fire eventually took the 2nd and 3rd floors blowing out the roof with extension to multiple exposures, cmd requested the 4th alarm evacuated all companies and went to ladder pipe operations and multiple lines from the exterior.
Video by staff photographer Jay Wagner
Pictures: http://tinyurl.com/9anuvdl

Fire Tornado Caught On Tape In Australia Fire Twister

Published on Sep 16, 2012 by stilltalkincrazy

THERE'S something mean and magical about Australia's Outback. An Alice Springs filmmaker captured both when a whirlwind of fire erupted before his eyes.
Chris Tangey of Alice Springs Film and Television was scouting locations near Curtin Springs station, about 80km from Ularu, last week when confronted by a fiery phenomenon.
He had just finished his tour of the station when workers encountered difficulties with a grader. So he went to help them.
A small fire was burning in nearby bushland, so Mr Tangey decided to start filming.
He caught the sight of his life.
A twister touched down on the spot fire, fanning it into a furious tower of flame.
"It sounded like a jet fighter going by, yet there wasn't a breath of wind where we were," he told the Northern Territory News.
"You would have paid $1000 a head if you knew it was about to happen."
The column of fire danced about the landscape for about 40 minutes, he said, as he and the station workers stood transfixed.
There was talk of making a quick getaway, Mr Tangey said. But everyone was too hypnotised to feel scared - and he continued furiously filming.
"The bizarre thing was that it rarely moved," he said.
"These things just stood there because there was no wind to move them ... but it was flickering incredibly fast."
Darwin weather forecaster David Matthews said small twisters were common in isolated areas. But the fiery vortex was highly unusual.
"The flames would have assisted by trying to suck in air and that could have helped generate those circular winds," Mr Matthews said.

USFA Firefighter Fatality Notices

U.S. Fire Administration Firefighter Fatality Notices »

Sep 11, 2012

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Columbia, PA

Steven Henry, Sr. of the Columbia Consolidated Fire Department in Columbia, PA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-09-07

Sep 4, 2012 9:52 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Contoocook, NH

Richard J. Schaefer of the Hopkinton Fire Department in Contoocook, NH has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-09-02

Aug 23, 2012 7:44 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Constable, NY

Timothy J. Lamere of the Constable Volunteer Firemen, Inc. in Constable, NY has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-20

Aug 21, 2012 11:06 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: South Sacramento, CA

Jimmy Randolph of the California Department of Corrections in South Sacramento, CA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-18

Aug 21, 2012 9:29 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Chattanooga, TN

Roulos Davis of the Chattanooga Fire Department in Chattanooga, TN has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-20 

Fire In The News

Investigators question the causes of downtown Chippewa Falls fires Leader-Telegram Left: Chippewa Falls firefighters work to put out hot spots Aug. 8, hours after a fire at 15 W. Spring St. that damaged three buildings. Fire and police officials are investigating the cause of the fire. A fire at a nearby downtown Chippewa Falls ... See all stories on this topic »

Detroit Fire Department merchandise are hot items The Detroit News "Everybody wants something from Detroit because we're synonymous with fighting fires." The walls of the store are lined with historic fire memorabilia, including old helmets and axes, pictures of Detroitfirefighters operating horse-drawn fire ... See all stories on this topic »

Northern Calif. fire grows to 28 square miles San Jose Mercury News SAN FRANCISCO—Good weather aided more than 1,300 firefighters Saturday as they strengthened containment lines at a massive wildfire burning across two Northern California counties. The Sixteen Complex fire was being managed as one blaze even ... See all stories on this topic »

Preparing for the next big fire: Rhoda Mae Kerr, Austin Fire Chief Austin American-Statesman The passing of the one-year anniversary of the Labor Day fires marks the perfect time to talk about the shared responsibility that comes with proactive wildfire safety. That means everyone has to do his or her part. The Austin Fire Department is ... See all stories on this topic » Austin American-Statesman

East of Lincoln, Grass Fires Keep Crews Very Busy 1011now Multiple grass fires late Saturday afternoon just east of Lincoln in Lancaster County had volunteerfirefighters racing all over to knock them out. And traffic on "O" street was backed up for miles. In addition, one firefighter suffered rib injuries ... See all stories on this topic »

Fires burn stretch east of Lincoln; slow traffic Lincoln Journal Star A stretch of grass fires along 176th Street between Lincoln and Eagle sent smoke billowing above O Street/U.S. 34 on Saturday and backed up traffic for miles along the roadway by about 4 p.m. asfirefighters responded. It's unclear whether the fires ... See all stories on this topic »

Winds threaten progress on fire near White Salmon Yakima Herald-Republic Weather officials have issued a "red flag" warning for fire danger for a wide swath of Eastern Washington, grim news for more than 600 firefighters working to contain a wildland blaze in Klickitat County. Winds could gust up to 35 miles per hour today ... See all stories on this topic »

Firefighters gather for muster in Milford despite storm threat (photos, video) New Haven Register MILFORD—Firefighters from around New England brought their antique fire engines and mustered their skill for the 41st annual Engine 260 Antique Fire Apparatus Show and Muster on Saturday in Eisenhower Park. Concern over severe thunderstorms and ... See all stories on this topic »

Firefighters To Install Smoke Detectors After Fatal Blazes WBAL Radio One week after a pair of fatal fires, Baltimore City firefighters will go on what officials call a "Neighborhood Sweep" to install smoke detectors. From noon until 4 p.m., firefighters will knock on doors in various neighborhoods and will install free ... See all stories on this topic »

More firefighters arrive to help as crews struggle to contain wildfire in ... The Republic Since the fires broke out Tuesday, they have consumed more than 26 square miles, said California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Daniel Berlant. Firefighters were working against gusty winds and low humidity in a rugged terrain of grasslands ... See all stories on this topic »

Long summer of wildfires puts strain on nation's firefighters, budgets KXLF Butte News Forty wildfires are burning from Southern California to Montana. Nationally, 45,000 fires have left more than 8 million acres scorched. After months of putting out blazes and no end in sight,firefighters are exhausted and budgets are strained. In the ... See all stories on this topic »

Hundreds of homes threatened by 1600-acre Scotts Fire east of Ukiah Ukiah Daily Journal The largest of several fires that broke out Friday afternoon quickly grew to 1,600 acres by Saturday, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reported. CalFire spokeswoman Julie Cooley described the blaze as burning "intensely with ... See all stories on this topic »

9/11 Firefighters Honored in Dallas NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth Taking the stairs took on a deeper meaning Saturday morning in Dallas. Hundreds of firefightershonored the fallen heroes of 9/11 with a memorial stair climb. "We can never forget those brave Americans who were murdered that infamous day," one ... See all stories on this topic »

Blaine Fire restrictions begin to lift Twin Falls Times-News Air quality decreased after smoke from the Halstead and Trinity Ridge forest fires began drifting over the northern county. While the fires ... Firefighters have removed the majority of the hazard items but weather and time will cause snags and trees ... See all stories on this topic »

Silo fire flames go 20 feet high Chippewa Herald Cornell Fire Chief Dennis Klass had thought about having a firefighter attempt to climb the silo on the Bernard Siverling farm in the town of Arthur, about eight-tenths of a mile east of Highway 27. The idea was that the firefighter could then shoot ... See all stories on this topic »

Firefighters Warn of Fake Fire Inspectors in Southern California LAFD News & Information (blog) LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Fire Department is warning business owners to be on the lookout for phony "fire inspectors". Businesses across the greater Los Angeles area have been targeted by scam artists wearing official-looking uniforms who claim to ... See all stories on this topic »

Bensalem's Union Fire Company reinstated, will give up fireboat Philadelphia Inquirer "They're more interested in the boat than fighting fires," he said. Jerri and company president Steve Carmichael stepped down, replaced by Barford and John Knowles. The company immediately started recruiting members, going door to door, and signing up ... See all stories on this topic »

Remembering, honoring vital for familes of fallen firefighters Lincoln Journal Star As she spoke to the crowd Saturday at the Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, Wach urged the other firefighters' families and friends in attendance to understand their loved one's death will not be forgotten. The service, organized by the Nebraska ... See all stories on this topic »

Firefighter burned in Tulsa school blaze released from hospital Tulsa World One of three firefighter who remained in a hospital after being injured in a fire at the Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences has been released, the Tulsa Fire Department reported Saturday. Thefirefighter was released from Hillcrest Medical Center late ... See all stories on this topic »

Firefighters gain upper hand on BWCA wildfires KARE DULUTH, Minn. - All wildfires in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of northeastern Minnesota are contained, controlled or out. But the U.S. Forest Service says Saturday campfire restrictions remain for the entire wilderness area, and some lake ... See all stories on this topic »

Good recourse for Ethics Statement for your Department

U.S. Fire Administration Acknowledges the New Fire Service Ethics Statement

To provide guidance to address complex ethical questions, the National Society of Executive Fire Officers and Congressional Fire Services Institute jointly have released a firefighter code of ethics that can be adopted by local fire and emergency medical service organizations. In acknowledgement of the importance of this first of its kind fire service ethics statement, the U.S. Fire Administration has posted the statement throughout the National Fire Academy's (NFA) facilities and will now include the statement in all course materials distributed to NFA students.

To download a copy for the NSEFO statement for posting within fire department

facilities and distribution, visit the USFA website at:www.usfa.fema.gov/fireservice/

New Report From USFA On Clothes Dryers

U.S. Fire Administration Releases New Report on Clothes Dryer Fires in Residential Buildings

The U.S. Fire Administration issued a special report today examining the characteristics of clothes dryer fires in residential buildings. The report, Clothes Dryer Fires in Residential Buildings (2008-2010), shows that failure to clean is the leading factor contributing to the ignition of these fires.

According to the report:

• An estimated 2,900 clothes dryer fires in residential buildings are reported to U.S. fire departments each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.
• Clothes dryer fire incidence in residential buildings was higher in the fall and winter months, peaking in January at 11 percent.
• Failure to clean (34 percent) was the leading factor contributing to the ignition of clothes dryer fires in residential buildings.
• Dust, fiber, and lint (28 percent) and clothing not on a person (27 percent) were, by far, the leading items first ignited in clothes dryer fires in residential buildings.
• Fifty-four percent of clothes dryer fires in residential buildings were confined to the object of origin.

LODD reports from USFA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Grangeville, ID

Anne Veseth of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest in Grangeville, ID has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-12 00:00:00.0.

Aug 13, 2012 1:26 PM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Sugarcreek, OH

Mike Burgin of the Sugarcreek Fire Department in Sugarcreek, OH has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-10 00:00:00.0.

Aug 7, 2012 11:34 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Bernalillo, NM

Jon Tibbetts of the Sandoval County Fire Department in Bernalillo, NM has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-07-23 00:00:00.0.

Aug 6, 2012 2:18 PM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Mandan, ND

Jim Reardon of the Fire Academy of North Dakota in Mandan, ND has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-08-04 00:00:00.0.

Aug 3, 2012 8:55 AM

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Yonkers, NY

Antonio Rodriques of the Yonkers Fire Department in Yonkers, NY has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-05-09 00:00:00.0.

Gardner (illinois) Fire Distirct - Not so good news

1. Sounds like another dysfunctional Fire District and The fire department when egos collide.

   news for Gardner Fire Department

   
   1. Volunteer Suburban Firefighters' Equipment Seized In Financial Dispute
      

      CBS2 Chicago‎ - 4 hours ago

      An entire suburban fire department has been effectively shut down, all because of a fight over money. ... Volunteer Fire Department, amid a dispute with the Gardner Fire Protection District over alleged ... Most Popular News ...

2. Gardner fire department shut down - The Daily-Journal

   daily-journal.com/archives/dj/display.php?id=493085

   15 hours ago – Gardner fire department shut down - Daily-Journal.com: The Kankakee area's number one local news, sports, weather, entertainment and ...

3. Gardner News - Topix

   www.topix.com/city/gardner-il

   8 hours ago – Local news for Gardner, IL continually updated from thousands of ... has led to the dismantling of the Gardner Volunteer Fire Department, but a ...

Two LODD Reports

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Lillington, NC

Donald L. Suggs of the Summerville Fire and Rescue Department in Lillington, NC has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-06-10

Initial Summary:  
Sunday, June 10, 2012, at approximately 1100hrs, Assistant Chief Suggs had responded to an emergency call. After returning home, he collapsed at about 2100hrs that evening. He was taken to the hospital where he passed away on Monday, June 11, 2012, at approximately 0100hrs from an apparent heart attack. An autopsy is being performed to determine the exact cause of death. 

 

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Yuma, AZ

Anthony Polk of the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Fort Yuma Agency in Yuma, AZ has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-06-08

Initial Summary:  
Firefighter Polk died as a result of a single fire apparatus accident that occurred while he and two other firefighters were responding to the scene of the Montezuma Fire south of Tucson, AZ.

Hard to tell the Good Guys

And every cop in Indiana just went "Uh-oh"

From & by wirecutter

Police officers in Indiana are upset over a new law allowing residents to use deadly force against public servants, including law enforcement officers, who unlawfully enter their homes. It was signed by Republican Governor Mitch Daniels in March.
The first of its kind in the United States, the law was adopted after the state Supreme Court went too far in one of its rulings last year, according to supporters. The case in question involved a man who assaulted an officer during a domestic violence call. The court ruled that there was “no right to reasonably resist unlawful entry by police officers.”
MORE

*****

The article does voice some very valid fears that LEO may have, but I'm thinking there's a bunch more out there that are suddenly rethinking about how they do their jobs.
And that fucking blowhard Texas Fred is probably shitting all over himself about this, that one of his masters may not be around to throw him a bone after breaking into somebody's home.

Good take on this Blog Post

Interesting Blog Post from Chief Reason Art
Don’t expect accommodations or special considerations. You’re a grunt just like the rest of us. Time to pay your dues. You can’t be on top of your game if you don’t train. You can’t extend your reach or maximize your effectiveness, unless you are willing to put your blood and sweat into it. You don’t have the first idea of what I’m talking about, do you? You were never a firefighter…

 Chief Reason Art

Read it here: http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?id=1219672%3ABlogPost%3A537709

Four LODD from FEMA

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Missoula, MT

Ronnie Chambless of the Neptune Aviation Services, Inc. in Missoula, MT has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-06-03

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Missoula, MT

Todd Tompkins of the Neptune Aviation Services, Inc. in Missoula, MT has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-06-03

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Bryan, TX

William Richard Danes of the Brazos County Precinct 3 Volunteer Fire Department in Bryan, TX has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-05-17

Notice of Firefighter Fatality: Bristol, PA

David Wintz of the Bristol Fire Company in Bristol, PA has died as the result of an on-duty incident that occurred on 2012-05-16

Still dragging this on–How long will it take to end this?

Even the motions in Drew Peterson murder case are getting snarky now

Drew Peterson’s lawyers are adding a little snark to some otherwise dry pre-trial motions. They filed a few last week as the former Bolingbrook cop learned he’d go on trial in July for the 2004 drowning death of his third wife, Kathleen Savio.

News about drew peterson

bing.com/news

• Drew Peterson murder trial to start at the end of July

  Just as he was about to confirm Drew Peterson’s long-awaited murder trial will start at the end of July, the judge asked the former Bolingbrook police sergeant if he had any reservations about the date. “I’ve been in…Chicago Sun-Times

Some more good Raw and on arrival videos

I know its been a while since I have linked some on arrival video. Found a few new ones on YOU TUBE for you.

Published on May 18, 2012 by lehighsbravest

Allentown, Pa.- Firefighters working in the 200 block of N. Jordan on a 2ndalarm house fire. Crews reported heavy fire from the 2nd floor on arrival with extension to the 3rd floor. The home suffered extensive damage and appeared the 2nd floor was gutted from front to rear of the home. Negative injuries were reported, Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced family

Fire at a department complex in Indianapolis Indiana by the N Post Rd, y E 42nd St.

Published on May 18, 2012 by mabas21

This video proves that even a small fire can cause major headaches for firefighters, thankfully Lake Station as usual had an awesome response time. If they were another five minutes out the building would have surely been involved other than some melted siding. The call came in just after 11am for some type of fire next to the food pantry at Columbus Park. On arrival a lawnmower was for engulfed in flames. Crews quickly stretched a line and knocked the fire. Nobody was injured at the fire scene. Once again, awesome job by LSFD

Not Good

7 hurt fighting fire on nuclear submarine; cause of blaze unknown - Los Angeles Times

from Google News

AFP

7 hurt fighting fire on nuclear submarine; cause of blaze unknown
Los Angeles Times
By Michael Muskal Seven people were injured while fighting a blaze aboard a nuclear-powered submarine being overhauled at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Maine, Navy officials said Thursday. The fire aboard the USS Miami SSN 755 began at 5:41 pm ...
Fire on US submarine leaves seven injured: NavyAFP
Nuclear sub fire doused, leaves seven with minor injuries (+video)Christian Science Monitor
Fire on nuclear sub at Maine shipyard hurts 7Salt Lake Tribune
Biddeford Journal Tribune

Two bodies found at Tranquil Road fire scene

 

NISSWA — Two bodies were discovered Monday morning at a residence after firefighters responded to a call of a garage fire in Lake Edward Township near Nisswa, said Crow Wing County Sheriff Todd Dahl.
The Nisswa Fire Department were first called to the scene about 10:35 a.m. to a garage at 1562 Tranquil Road, off Crow Wing County Road 4, just north of Crow Wing County Road 3 in Merrifield. The residence and the unattached garage were on fire.
Read More: http://brainerddispatch.com/news/2012-04-30/firefighters-find-fire-two-bodies...

 

You want fries with that?

 

At a McDonald's in Coachella (California), a truck with propane tanks in the bed catch on fire and end with a BOOM. Luckily, everyone made it out of the truck in time. They are, however, experiencing second degree burns.

COACHELLA, CA (KPTV) -

A video on YouTube shows a massive pickup truck explosion at a McDonald's drive-thru in California.

The blast cause the truck’s roof to buckle and the tailgate to fly off and hit another vehicle. The fire engulfed the truck, scorched part of the drive-thru and damaged the restaurant’s roof.

So True

Got this as an email, just had to post it here. These examples are so true,

The older we get....

Recently, when I went to McDonald's I saw on the menu that you could have an order of 6, 9 or 12 Chicken McNuggets .

I asked for a half dozen nuggets.

'We don't have half dozen nuggets,' said the teenager at the counter.

'You don't?' I replied.

'We only have six, nine, or twelve,' was the reply.

'So I can't order a half dozen nuggets, but I can order six?'

'That's right.'

So I shook my head and ordered six McNuggets

(Unbelievable but sadly true...)

TWO

I was checking out at the local Walmart with just a few items and the lady behind me put her things on the belt close to mine. I picked up one of those 'dividers' that they keep by the cash register and placed it between our things so they wouldn't get mixed.

After the girl had scanned all of my items, she picked up the 'divider', looking it all over for the bar code so she could scan it.

Not finding the bar code, she said to me, 'Do you know how much this is?'

I said to her 'I've changed my mind; I don't think I'll buy that today.'

She said 'OK,' and I paid her for the things and left.

She had no clue to what had just happened.

THREE

A woman at work was seen putting a credit card into her floppy drive and pulling it out very quickly.

When I inquired as to what she was doing, she said she was shopping on the Internet and they kept asking for a credit card number, so she was using the ATM 'thingy.'

(keep shuddering!!)

FOUR

I recently saw a distraught young lady weeping beside her car. 'Do you need some help?' I asked.

She replied, 'I knew I should have replaced the battery to this remote door unlocker. Now I can't get into my car. Do you think they (pointing to a distant convenience store) would have a battery to fit this?'

'Hmmm, I don't know. Do you have an alarm, too?' I asked.

'No, just this remote thingy,' she answered, handing it and the car keys to me. As I took the key and manually unlocked the door, I replied, 'Why don't you drive over there and check about the batteries. It's a long walk....'

PLEASE just lay down before you hurt yourself !!!

FIVE

Several years ago, we had an Intern who was none too swift. One day she was typing and turned to a secretary and said, 'I'm almost out of typing paper. What do I do?'

'Just use paper from the photocopier', the secretary told her. With that, the intern took her last remaining blank piece of paper, put it on the photocopier and proceeded to make five blank copies.

SIX

A mother calls 911 very worried asking the dispatcher if she needs to take her kid to the emergency room, the kid had eaten ants. The dispatcher tells her to give the kid some Benadryl and he should be fine. Then the mother says, 'I just gave him some ant killer......'

Dispatcher : 'Rush him in to emergency!'

Life is tough. It's even tougher if you're stupid!!!!