Pennsylvania Rowhome Fire, Three Children, One Adult Killed 3.27.2012

A vigil is planned for Wednesday night for the woman and three children who died Tuesday in a fire in Schuylkill County.

It comes as investigators search for the cause of the deadly blaze.

SHENANDOAH, Pa. - A fire destroyed five row homes in northeastern Pennsylvania early Tuesday, killing a woman and three children in one house while a fourth child managed to escape out a second floor window as the flames closed in, fire officials said.

The blaze spread quickly, and the buildings were fully engulfed when crews arrived within minutes of the 6:30 a.m. call. Firefighters attempted a rescue, but they made it only a short distance inside the front door of the victims' home before having to retreat.

"The fire was too intense," said Shenandoah Fire Chief Richard Mensick.

Four people, three of them children, died early Tuesday morning when fire raced through five row homes in Shenandoah. The dead included a 28-year-old woman, two ten year olds and a baby.

As the sad news rapidly spread through Shenandoah, the offerings of balloons, candles and flowers grew on East Coal Street, as people came to grieve for the young mother and three children killed in an early morning fire.

Schuylkill County Coroner Dr. David J. Moylan said Matejick Snyder and the three children all appeared to have died of smoke inhalation and ruled the manner of death accidental due to the fire.

State police fire marshal will be investigating and determine how the fire started. Cause of the fire is being labeled "undetermined" while the investigation continues.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

FIRE VIDEO NEWS for 3.26.2012:

Texas Firefighter Injured in Freak SCBA Accident

SCBA bottle came undone from inflatable raft while preparing for an animal rescue.

Garland Firefighter Hurt in Freak Accident: MyFoxDFW.com

GARLAND, Texas (KDFW) - A Garland firefighter has a fractured skull after a freak accident on the job over the weekend. Bobby Brinkley was struck in the face by a high-pressure air tank, according to the Garland Firefighters Association.

Six Children, Two Adults Killed in West Virginia House Fire

Charleston Mayor Jones provides details as press conference.

A tragic fire in Charleston, WV claimed the lives of two adults and six children. Another is in critical care. Charleston Mayor Danny Jones describes some of what happened.

Charleston, WV Woolworth Fire of 1949

The Woolworth fire was the worst fire in Charleston's history, considering the 7 firefighters who died when the floor collapsed. This film was shot by the owner of S. Spencer Moore.

Five Found Dead in Arkansas Fire

Fire appeared to have died out without any indication of burning on the exterior.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - A mother and her four children died early Thursday morning at their home at the Max Howell housing development in Jacksonville. Found dead were Marilyn Beavers, 31, her son, Dequan Singleton, 11, and her three daughters, Sydni Singleton, 9, Haylee Beavers, 7, and Emily Beavers, 4.

11 FDNY Firefighters Injured During Manhattan Fire

10 firefighters transported for treatment of minor injuries.

NEW YORK (AP) — Eleven firefighters suffered minor injuries during an early morning fire in Upper Manhattan.

A fire department spokesman says the fire at 531 W. 217th Street was reported at 2:51 a.m. and brought under control by 4:23 a.m. Friday.

Over 36 units and more than 155 firefighters responded to the blaze at the multiple two-story dwelling.

Ten firefighters were transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Another firefighter refused medical attention.




(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Former Ohio Fire Chief On-Duty Death

Former Adena Volunteer Fire Company Fire Chief Edward Richard Bernosky, 79, on March 20, 2012 at 3:30 p.m., suffered a medical emergency while working a fire department water detail and died of an apparent heart attack while wrapping up from a water detail. Medics and firefighters rendered aid but Bernosky passed away from a cause still to be reported.

Fire Chief Bernosky had been with the fire company for more than 50 years, and served as its chief for two decades or longer.

Our condolences to the Bernosky Family & Friends, the Adeana Volunteer Fire Company, and to all affected by the Fire Chief Edward Richard Bernosky's passing.

To date, 22 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012. Year-to-date USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Woodbury Heights Fire Co. Station House On Fire 3.23.2012

At around 5:45 a.m., fire consumed at least a portion of the second floor on the east end of the building and left a gaping hole in the roof of the Woodbury Heights Fire Co. station house in Gloucester County, New Jersey.

One firefighter was taken to hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. The blaze was reported declared under control at 6:46 a.m.. No fire trucks were damaged.

Woodbury Heights Firehouse Catches Fire: MyFoxPHILLY.com

Woodbury Heights Fire Department,a fire company founded in 1911, is an all-volunteer department that maintains two pumpers, one rescue pumper and one ambulance, according to its website.

“It looks to me like the whole second floor is gone,” Fire Chief Rob Conley said of the damage. He also said officials didn’t have in mind a possible cause for the fire as of around 7:30 a.m., but that the Gloucester County Fire Marshal’s Office would begin investigating as soon as they could.

An investigation will be launched to determine the cause of the blaze.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Arkansas Fire Captain On-Duty Death

Above is what Fire Chief John Vanderhoof said in a news release this morning.

Fire Captain Donald "Donny" Jones, 56, a 31 year veteran of the Jacksonville Fire Department, Arkansas, on March 19, 2012, at 10:30 p.m., responded with fire and police to a single-vehicle accident that involved a damaged gas main. While working to clear the scene of the accident, a second motor vehicle reportedly accelerated and veered off of the road striking two firefighters and a police officer. Captain Jones was killed upon impact. The police officer and second firefighter were both transported by air to the hospital and are reported to be in critical but stable condition. The driver of the second vehicle has been charged with 2nd degree murder and two counts of criminal intent to commit 2nd degree murder given that, according to witnesses, this person allegedly did not try to stop.

Our condolences to the Jones Family & Friends, the Jacksonville Fire Department, and to all affected by Fire Captain Donald "Donny" Jones' passing.

To date, 21 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Norfolk Virginia Firefighter On-Duty Death

Firefighter Myers, 54, a 20 year veteran Nolfolk firefighter, on March 19, 2012 at 10:00 a.m., was found unconscious on the floor of his fire station's bunk room at the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Station 13. Fellow firefighters immediately started CPR. Myers was then transported to DePaul Medical Center where he passed away from a cause still to be determined.

Our condolences to the Myers Family & Friends, the Norfolk Fire-Rescue, and to all affected by the Firefighter Jonathan D. Myers' passing.

To date, 20 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

USFA Releases Civilian Fire Fatalities in Residential Buildings (2008-2010) Report

"Other unintentionally set, careless" actions and "smoking" are the leading causes

Emmitsburg, MD. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) issued a special report today examining the characteristics of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings. The report, Civilian Fire Fatalities in Residential Buildings (2008-2010) (PDF, 916 Kb), was developed by USFA’s National Fire Data Center and is based on 2008 to 2010 data from the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).

According to the report:

• Ninety-two percent of all civilian fatalities in residential building fires involve thermal burns and smoke inhalation.
• The leading specific location where civilian fire fatalities occur in residential buildings is thebedroom (55 percent).
• Fifty percent of civilian fire fatalities in residential buildings occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. This period also accounts for 47 percent of fatal fires.
• Thirty-six percent of fire victims in residential buildings were trying to escape at the time of their deaths; an additional 35 percent were sleeping.
• "Other unintentionally set, careless" actions and "smoking" (each accounting for 16 percent) are the leading causes of fatal residential building fires.
• Approximately 44 percent of civilian fatalities in residential building fires are between the ages of 40 and 69. Thirteen percent of the fire fatalities in residential buildings were less than 10 years old.

  Civilian Fire Fatalities in Residential Buildings (2008-2010) is part of the Topical Fire Report Series. Topical reports explore facets of the U.S. fire problem as depicted through data collected in NFIRS. Each topical report briefly addresses the nature of the specific fire or fire-related topic, highlights important findings from the data, and may suggest other resources to consider for further information. Also included are recent examples of fire incidents that demonstrate some of the issues addressed in the report or that put the report topic in context.

  For further information regarding other topical reports or any programs and training available from the U.S. Fire Administration, visit: www.usfa.fema.gov

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Texas Sr. Captain Firefighter On-Duty Death

HOUSTON (KTRK) - The firefighter was part of a crew handling a small apartment fire in southwest Houston. The fire was quickly contained, and the concern became the firefighter's health. He was rushed to the West Houston Medical Center where he died.

Senior Captain Thomas "Bill" Dillion, 49, of the Houston Fire Department on March 14, 2012, at 09:00 a.m., arrived with other firefighters at the scene of a residential cooking fire. As he approached the entrance to the apartment building he experienced a medical emergency and collapsed. Dillion was treated immediately and transported to the West Houston Medical Center Hospital where he passed away from a cause still to be determined.

Our condolences to the Dillion Family & Friends, the Houston Fire Department, and to all affected by the Senior Captain Thomas "Bill" Dillion's passing.

To date, 19 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

FIREFIGHTER VIDEO NEWS for 3.12.2012:

Colby, Wisconsin Firefighter Laid to Rest
Kampmeyer worked as a deputy for Marathon County and was a volunteer firefighter.


















COLBY (WAOW) - Thousands gathered in Colby to bid a final farewell to a fallen firefighter. People across the state have come to know Jamison Kampmeyer and the legacy he leaves behind. Kampmeyer died while battling a blaze at the historic Abby Theatre in Abbotsford on Sunday. He worked as a volunteer firefighter in Colby. And was also a deputy for the Marathon County Sheriff's department.

A final farewell: Remembering Jamison Kampmeyer - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports


Oklahoma City Firefighter Faces New Challenge
Oklahoma City firefighter battles fires and Parkinson’s disease

OKLAHOMA CITY (News9) - A metro firefighter is fighting more than fires. Right now, he's in a battle to overcome something that could transform his life. But he's still on the job every day. "When he came to me and told me about his condition, I was really rather shocked," Maj. Mike Coker said. Kidd was scared that his calling might be in jeopardy when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 29.

Local Firefighter Takes On Different Kind Of Fight - News9.com - Oklahoma City, OK - News, Weather, Video and Sports |


Massachusetts Firefighter Apologizes to Mayor for Fatal Fire Remarks

Haverhill firefighter apologizes after saying mayor should be charged with murder.



The Eagle Tribune - Haverhill firefighter Todd Guertin apologizes to Haverhill Mayor James Fiorentini for his comments after a deadly fire on Washington Street March 7, 2012.


Worcester Community Honors Fallen Firefighter and Surviving Partner
Worcester Firefighter Brian Carroll honored by community remembering deadly fire.



WORCESTER, Mass. (WHDH) - Firefighter Brian Carroll was honored for his bravery in Worcester on Wednesday after he was seriously injured in a December fire that took the life of his friend and fellow firefighter.“The first five minutes was absolute hell,” said Carroll, speaking out for the first time since the deadly fire.



(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Daylight Saving Time Is Here!

Ok now, I added an hour last night before going to bed for the arrival of Day Light Savings Time here in up-state New York. Is changing the clock worth all the fuss? Good question for discussion and in the following YouTube video explains what adding that hour all means...

We're only saving $4.00 a year per household by doing the Day Light Saving Time Thing! Wow! Well...the thing is though...I do know checking and test smoke detectors and CO2 alarms and changing their batteries with new/fresh ones is worth it because these early warning systems could and have saved lives!

Fire crews send a safety message: wtnh.com

Now is the time to check your skoke alarms and CO2 detectors. It is encouraged to make sure your smoke detectors and CO2 alarms are operating properly by changing the batteries at least once a year. Like now, change those batteries with new one! The best way to make sure the device is working is to push the “test” button until the alarm sounds. Test monthly throughout the year.

Smoke detectors that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. In addition, families should prepare an emergency escape plan to allow all members to practice what they should do and where they should meet outside the home in the event of a fire.

Here are a few more YouTube videos explaining where to install smoke alarms/detectors, as well as how to perform a monthly smoke detector test...

Here are some easy fire safety tips to remember and use throughout the year:

Safety tips provided by FASNY & National Fire Protection Association:

• Test smoke alarms/detectors at least once a month by using detectors’ "test button.”

• Clean the units by vacuuming or dusting in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

• Install new batteries in all smoke alarms/CO detectors at least once a year on the day you change your clocks in the spring and fall.

• Install a smoke alarm and CO detector near sleeping areas, as well on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Do not paint smoke alarm/CO detectors.

• Because smoke rises, alarms should be mounted high on walls or ceilings.

• Smoke alarms/CO detectors should not be installed near a window, door or forced-air register where drafts could interfere with their operation.

• Notify your local fire department when your detector sounds. However, before calling, make sure to identify whether or not the device is simply sounding due to a low battery.

• Read the detector’s packaging and instructions to understand the difference between a true emergency and a simple maintenance issue of a dead battery or an expired detector, as the detector may emit different sounds for each situation.

• If it is a real activation, call 911 and evacuate immediately.

• To avoid potential CO exposure, do not warm a vehicle in an enclosed garage space. During and after a snowstorm, make sure all vents connected to stoves, furnaces, and fireplaces leading outside are clear.

A Sound You Can Live With: Test Your Smoke Detector!

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

1 dead, 2 hurt in Waverly NY Apartment House Fire

Waverly firefighters, the Sayre Fire Department and Greater Valley Emergency Medical Services from Sayre, Pennsylvania, responded to an early morning fire 2:30 Friday morning at 7 Ithaca Street, Waverly NY in Tioga County. Waverly-Barton Fire Officials said when they arrived at the scene; smoke and fire were spewing out of the home. "On arrival, we found the house fully involved in fire," said Jeff Wheeler, first assistant fire chief of the Waverly Barton Fire Department.

There were two other people in the upstairs apartment that had to jump to safety before we were on the scene" said Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Waverly. Firefighters pulled one person out of the downstairs apartment. A Waverly man that was taken to Robert Packer Hospita is dead after the fire that took place in Tioga County, New York. The two other persons taken to the hospital had non-life threatening injuries.

After about an hour of firefighting the fire was knocked down and brought under control, with firefighting crews staying on the fireground scene till 10 a.m. to ensure no rekindle of fire would happen.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Tioga County Fire Investigators and Waverly Village Police are conducting the investigation.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Change Batteries in Smoke and CO Alarms This Weekend Daylight Saving Time begins March 11

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers to replace the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms this weekend for Daylight Saving Time. This year, Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 11. Fresh batteries allow smoke and CO alarms to do their jobs saving lives by alerting families of a fire or a buildup of deadly carbon monoxide in their homes.

CPSC estimates there was a yearly average of 386,300 residential fires resulting in nearly 2,400 deaths between 2006 and 2008.

Two-thirds of fire deaths occur in homes where there are no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. That is why it is important to replace batteries at least once every year and to test your alarms every month to make sure they work. CPSC recommends consumers have smoke alarms on every level of their home, outside bedrooms and inside each bedroom.

CPSC estimates there was an annual average of 183 unintentional non-fire CO poisoning deaths associated with consumer products between 2006 and 2008. CO is called the "invisible killer," because it is a colorless, odorless and poisonous gas. Because of this, people may not know they are being poisoned. Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete burning of fuel in various products, including furnaces, portable generators, fireplaces, cars and charcoal grills. That is why it is important to have working CO alarms in the home, on each level and outside each sleeping area.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of the thousands of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $900 billion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters and household chemicals - contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.

To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, go online to: www.saferproducts.gov, call CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772 or teletypewriter at (800) 638-8270 for the hearing impaired. Consumers can obtain this news release and product safety information at www.cpsc.gov. To join a free e-mail subscription list, please go to https://www.cpsc.gov/cpsclist.aspx.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)