Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention

Missouri Firefighter On-Duty Death

2012-02-02T18:43:00.010-05:00

Senior Firefighter/Engineer/Paramedic Douglas "Doug" Haase, SR., 60, of the St. Charles Fire Department on February 1, 2012 passed away while on duty.

The 27-year-veteran St. Charles firefighter apparantly died of natural causes according to news sources while on duty Feb. 1 at the St. Charles Fire Station No. 2, 1550 South Main Street in St. Charles, Missouri.

Douglas "Doug" Haase, of Troy, MO, went to bed late after running a call Tuesday night, and his shift was supposed to end at 7:30, Wednesday morning, said fire department spokesman Dan Casey. When Haase didn't come down in the morning or turn off his alarm, the firefighters found him, Casey said. His fellow firefighters found him slumped in his bed shortly before 7 a.m. .

Haase was a firefighter engineer and paramedic for the city of St. Charles and had served in the Lincoln County Fire Protection District from 1980 and 1995. He was chief of Lincoln County Fire Protection District from 1982 to 1984.

Funeral Arrangements:

Provided courtesy of http://www.mofirefuneral.org/:

Visitation is Sunday, February 5, 2012, from 2pm to 8pm. Firefighter walk through at 730pm. McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO 63379

Funeral services are Monday, February 6, 2012, at 11am, also located at McCoy-Blossom Funeral Home, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO 63379

St. Charles firefighter dies of apparent natural causes at firehouse

(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.)

VIDEO: NEWS for 1.31.2012

2012-01-31T06:09:00.010-05:00

At Least 10 Killed in Florida Crash

A long line of cars and trucks collided one after another early Sunday on a dark Florida highway.

Associated Press - A long line of cars and trucks collided one after another early Sunday on a dark Florida highway so shrouded in haze and smoke that drivers were virtually blinded. At least 10 people were killed, and at least 18 were taken to the hospital. (Jan. 29)

This Video Appears in:

Fiery Florida Highway Crash Claims 10 Lives

FDNY Battalion Chief: Bronx Basement Fire Details

Companies had to cut a hole in the first floor to remove smoke and heat.

1 Dead, 1 Hurt In Bronx Basement Fire: MyFoxNY.com

BRONX (MYFOXNY.COM) - The FDNY says one man is dead and one woman injured in a basement fire in a Bronx apartment early Sunday morning.

This Video Appears in:

Video: One Dead in Bronx Fire

Massachusetts Firefighters Injured as Ladder Hits Wires During Fire

Three firefighters were taken to the hospital.

Several firefighters hurt battling Cambridge blaze: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Maryland Firefighter Injured During House Fire

Large fire destroyed Glenn Dale home.

Electrical Problems Blamed for Glenn Dale House Fire: MyFoxDC.com

GLENN DALE, Md. (WTTG) - GLENN DALE, Md. - Investigators say a massive house fire in Glenn Dale, Maryland was caused by some sort of electrical problem. Flames were reported at the single-family house on the 8000 block of Wingate Drive just before 2:30 a.m. Sunday. Everyone got out safely, but one firefighter was treated for minor injuries.

This Video Appears in:

Maryland Firefighters Battle Well-Advanced 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.)

Pennsylvania Fire Captain On-Duty Death

2012-01-30T11:42:00.011-05:00

Captain Walter C. Sumner, 49, of the Cranesville Volunteer Fire Department on January 24, 2012 passed away within 24 hours of responding to an incident. Captain Sumner suffered a heart attack. Captain Sumner passed away from complications related to that heart attack.

Fire Chief Christian Karotko of the neighboring Endinboro Volunteer Fire Department had these word to say about Fire Captain Walt Summer...

"Today, we lost brother firefighter and good friend Walt Sumner. Walt was a true brother to all in the fire service. Whether on the fireground or leading the torches in a live burn, he always had our backs. No matter how bad the situation, he was always right there. Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to the Sumner family and our Brothers and Sisters at Cranesville Station 60. You will be sadly missed but know you will continue to always have our back and watch over us. Rest easy my friend.

Hard times come and go but we stick together because we are one big family, brothers and sisters. It doesn't matter where your from or what color your bucket is, we're united as one. People depend on us and depend on each other. We get through it and when the bell goes off, we will still get on the rig and go, even on our weakest days. We are firefighters, a brotherhood of courageous people. Our apparatus roll with a full crew now, unseen Hero's riding beside us, guiding us to where we need to go..."

To date, eight (8) firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012.

“Captain” Walt Sumner of Cranesville Fire Department, Rest In Peace Brother.

(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.)

USAF P-34 Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV)

2012-01-27T16:18:00.034-05:00

The United States Air Force firefighters have a new firefighting vehicle to combat fires. The new P-34 Rapid Intervention Vehicle is the first vehicle in the Air Force's crash response fleet to use ultra high pressure firefighting technology and is made by Pierce Manufacturing.

With a capacity of 500 gallons of aggregate firefighting agent, the P-34 RIV will be smaller and more agile than the older vehicles currently in the Air Force's crash response fleet. Built on a Ford F550 chassis with an enhanced front axle, the cab is designed to accommodate three firefighters and their equipment. The UHP turret, mounted on the front bumper, is powered by a four-stage, high-pressure centrifugal pump that discharges 60 gallons of firefighting agent per minute. The turret is designed to be joystick operated by the driver in the cab. The RIV can deploy the UHP turret while modulating around the fire, or from a static position.

CMSgt Jim Podolske, USAF (RET), who I had the honor to server under & with back-in-the-day, and who is a Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency (AFCESA) firefighting subject matter expert now at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida had the following to say about the P-34 RIV...

"This will be the first firefighting vehicle in the U.S. Air Force to use new ultra-high pressure firefighting technology," said Jim Podolske.

Mr. Podolske explains, "For example, a 1,000-gallon vehicle that discharges 1,000 gallons per minute yields one minute of firefighting capability at the scene," Mr. Podolske. "With new UHP technology, that same 1,000-gallon vehicle is now equivalent to 3,500 gallons of firefighting capability."

"We can operate the turret and two hand lines simultaneously," Mr. Podolske said. "This new UHP technology can also penetrate a hidden fire or a 3-D running fuel fire without impacting the safety of our firefighters."

"In 2010, the average price tag to replace a 1,000 gallon P-19 was $564,000 each," Mr. Podolske said. "The new 500-gallon UHP truck has the firefighting capability of a 1,500 to 1,750-gallon vehicle at a cost that's significantly less. The Air Force is in the process of buying at least 207 RIVs, which will reduce the age of our vehicle fleet and also help us buy down our vehicle recapitalization rate. That means there is a potential cost-avoidance savings as high as $84 million."

"Over the course of this process, AFCESA will also provide two RIVs to the Special Vehicle Maintenance School in Port Hueneme, Calif., so our Air Force vehicle maintainers can effectively learn how to sustain and maintain these vehicles at the base level," Mr. Podolske said. "We will also develop curriculum to show firefighters how to properly inspect, operate and maintain the vehicle. This is serious business. This vehicle will be in the Air Force inventory for a minimum of 12 years, allowing firefighters to save lives and protect vital Air Force assets."

Here are some pictures of the P-34 RIV training at Tyndall Air Force Base...

The Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency, with headquarters at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., is a field operating agency that reports to the Office of The Civil Engineer, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C.

The AFCESA Mission: Provide professional readiness, energy, and operations support, tools and practices to maximize Air Force engineering agile combat support worldwide

(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.)

Tanker Truck Fire, 1 Fatality: Elizabeth, NJ 1.24.12

2012-01-25T19:28:00.014-05:00

A gasoline tanker, carrying 8,500 gallons of fuel, exploded after a car collided into it causing a fiery blaze at 1:45 a.m. early Tuesday morning in Elizabeth, NJ at the intersection of Bayway Avenue.

The car wedged underneath the burning gasoline tanker, trapping the driver inside the vehicle.

The driver of the car was pronounced dead at the scene, and the tanker truck driver escaped the burning truck without serious injury

Cause of the crash remains under investigation

Along with News video, here's video footage provided by Ed Gray, allhandsgoingtowork on YouTube, of the fire ground operations...

View more videos at: http://nbcnewyork.com.

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(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.)

ARFF (less)...

2012-01-25T17:04:00.006-05:00

lol, The Missis gave me the title for this TFPFP blog post and it pretty much sums it up. Today it became "OFFICIAL." Notice was given that I will no longer be on an ARFF Team.

"The Dream Of Second Opportunities, Ends Today." ~ @FiremanRich

Life Goes On & Life Is Still Good!

That Is All!

(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.)

Two-alarm fire in Jersey City 1.18.12

2012-01-22T17:58:00.010-05:00

Firefighters quickly arriving at the fire ground, going into action, and after an hour had the blaze under control. The fire started on a first floor then burned through and extended over to an attached two story home. Although there were no reports of injuries, five people had to be relocated by the Red Cross. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

Here's some YouTube footage of the fire ground taken by Ed Gray, known as allhandsgoingtowork on YouTube, of the early 1 A.M. morning 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.)

Former Fire Chief Dies LODD

2012-01-21T00:55:00.001-05:00

Firefighter Bruce Turcotte, 58, of the Hopelawn Engine Company No. 1 on January 19, 2012, responded to a residential structure fire with his fire company. Shortly after working to reestablish the water supply to firefighters inside of the burning structure, he returned to his rescue truck and fell ill where he was discovered a short time later by other firefighters. Firefighter Turcotte was treated at the scene and transported to the hospital but passed away due to a reported cardiac arrest.

Hopelawn fire chief suffers fatal heart attack at scene of Woodbridge 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.)

20 Year Firefighter Veteran LODD

2012-01-21T00:16:00.006-05:00

Firefighter Duane Ibarra, 50, of the Maui County Department of Fire and Public Safety on January 18, 2012, was found unresponsive in the fire station workout room at 1822hrs. Efforts to revive Ibarra by his co-workers were unsuccessful. Our sincere condolences to the members of the MFD and family of Firefighter Duane Ibarra.

Maui Firefighter Death Unexpected

(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.)

Volunteer Firefighter In Fatal Crash

2012-01-19T18:26:00.013-05:00

Firefighter Brandon Little, 19, of United Hook and Ladder Company 33, on January 18, 2012, while responding to a structure fire call, Firefighter Little passed away from injuries he sustained when his privately owned vehicle left the roadway and crashed into a tree. Initial reports indicate that Little was ejected from his car and that speed may have been a factor in the accident. Investigation into the fatal incident continues by local and state authorities.

Friends Remember New Oxford Firefighter Killed on his Way to 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.)

4-Alarm Fire Brooklyn Row House 1.17.12

2012-01-17T12:45:00.007-05:00

A 4-alarm apartment fire in a three-story row frame in Brooklyn where heavy fire broke out on the second floor and extended into the three-story building on 368 Himrod Street shortly after eight o'clock this morning, 17 Jan 2011. The building was evacuated, but reported upon arrival by arriving fire department crews that there were people on fire escapes of building. It was reported that NYFD Ladder 124 arrived on the scene and rescued a mother and her 12-year-old son hanging out upper level window.

It took firefighting crews around 3 hours to bring the flames under control. There were nearly 170 firefighters and 39 units that responded to the firegruond for this fire.

Deputy Asst. Chief James Leonard stated, "At 8:20 a.m. this morning received a 911 call concerning this fire, simultaneously people were banging on the firehouse door which is about six houses down. So we were on the scene immediately, we had heavy fire on the first, second and third floor. Members of ladder 124 ... rescue two people out the second floor."

Row House Fire In Brooklyn: MyFoxNY.com

At least seven people suffering minor injuries, three of which were firefighters. All were transported to Wyckoff Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

The fire is under 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.)

4-alarm Brookline Mass. Fire 1.16.12

2012-01-16T17:22:00.014-05:00

The four-alarm fire in Brookline Massachusetts, at Box 35 on 1471 Beacon St was rung out at around 9:00 a.m. this very cold freezing morning at a brownstone apartment building complex.

It was shortly after 10:00 a.m. that firefighters on the fire scene were still battleing a very intense fire that extended up into the fourth floor apartment building. Because of fire and weather conditions firefighter were ordered out of the building after an hour of firefighting as the fire spread.

Brookline Fire Chief Paul Ford stated, Whenever we have conditions like this, icy temps, cold, hypothermia on the men, just freezing conditions make it difficlt and dangerous."

The damaging fire was contained to the original building, where firefighters brought the blaze under control just before 12:00 p.m..

All residents are reported getting safely out with no serious injuries reported, though one resident sustained what is called a minor injury and was sent to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Two firefighters were reported to have been treated for minor injuries also.

It was not clear what started the fire, but apparently it has been reported the probable cause could have started in the basement area from a cloths dryer where it quickly spread up into the fourth floor area.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation and ongoing.

(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.)

Six-Alarm Fire in Cornwall, New York 1.15.12

2012-01-15T19:46:00.015-05:00

A raging 6th-alarm blaze was rang out at 10:50 a.m. today at an industrial park at 2 Mill Street, located in the Town of Cornwall, Orange County, New York.

The complex which previously housed the "First Carpet Mill Company" in the early 20th century was turned into an industrial park.

Thirty minutes after the initial response to the fire scene it was reported that a "defensive" firefighting operation was started, with firefighters pulling back as a third alarm was quickly sounded that developed into a six-alarm response. Incident Command quickly made the call to pulled all roof crews off the structures roofs, making accountability of all firefighters, and had Orange County Dispatch make the county wide radio transmission that all firefighting operation are a "all exterior attack." It was also passed on by Incident Command that there were no persons inside the structures on fire.

View more videos at: http://nbcnewyork.com.

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Fourteen Orange County New York fire companies responded to the fire scene, with more than 150 firefighters battling the raging fire. It was reported that at around 4:30 p.m,. one fire fighter was injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Cornwall FD Fire Chief Update:

The Cornwall Fire Chief Pat Hines stated that the fire is contained and that "There's no injuries yet."

Here is additional video of the 6-alarm fire...

Local authorities have not reported any injuries at this fire thus far. Orange County emergency personnel and firefighters were reported also continuing working the fireground site into Sunday evening, and that the cause to the fire is under 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.)

Two-Alarm Fire: Queens N.Y. Warehouse

2012-01-15T15:18:00.014-05:00

Here is the audio and video of a 2-alarm response to a fire that took place on Saturday, 1/14/12, in Queens, N.Y.. The New York City Fire Department (NYFD) performed a quick knock down & extinguishment to the fire at a two story warehouse located at the corner of 132 Ave / Rockaway Blvd.

No one was injured at this fire, and cause to the fire is under investigation.

Queens Warehouse Fire: MyFoxNY.com

2-Alarm Warehouse Fire at corner of 132 Ave / Rockaway Blvd

ADDITIONAL VIDEO OF FIRE GROUND:

(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.)

TFPFP Podcast [02]

2012-01-13T18:03:00.005-05:00

TFPFP Podcast [02] (mp3)

(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.)

Videos of Working Fire - Newark, NJ - 01.06.12

2012-01-11T05:01:00.013-05:00

Here is some YouTube video footage of a working fire that occurred last week on Friday, 6 Jan 2012, at 222 North & 6th Street, Newark New Jersey. Ed Gray, known as allhandsgoingtowork on YouTube recorded this video footage of firefighters working on the fireground operations.

(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.)

Loss of Life for Two Firefighters...

2012-01-09T17:24:00.014-05:00

This past weekend there were two on duty firefighter fatalities as reported by The United States Fire Administration (USFA).

These two tragic loss of life represent the 3^rd and 4^th Firefighter Fatality for 2012.

Firefighter David Crenshaw of the Anderson Fire Department, South Carolina, on Jan 9, 2012, at 06:30 hrs., collapsed from a cause still to be determined while working at the scene of a motor vehicle accident with injuries at Porter Road and Highway 88. Crenshaw was treated at the scene and transported to AnMed Health Medical Center where he succumbed to his injury. Incident Location: Porter Road and Highway 88.

“Former Anderson County sheriff dies while trying to help others”

Fire Chief Samuel Butler of the Evens Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department, North Carolina, on Jan 8, 2012, at 22:55 hrs., while responding to a motor vehicle accident in his privately owned vehicle, Fire Chief Butler was struck and killed by a semi-trailer truck as he attempted a U-turn at the end of the eastbound I-74 onramp at Cabinet Shop Road. Incident Location: Onramp eastbound lanes I-74 & Cabinet Shop Road.

“Maxton firefighter killed”

(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.)

LODD Firefighter William “Bill” Elliott - A Fireman's Prayer

2012-01-08T07:04:00.003-05:00

LODD Firefighter William “Bill” Elliott - A Fireman"s Prayer (mp3)

(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 Dies in Training Tragedy

2012-01-07T17:40:00.026-05:00

23 year veteran Pompano Beach Fire Department firefighter William “Bill” Elliott, died Friday, Jan 6, 2011 after falling 100 feet from the top of a ladder truck during a fire department exercise according to news reports.

The training exercise, which included four other firefighters, took place behind Fire Station 61 on 2121 NW third Ave, Pompano Beach, Florida at approximately 4:20 p.m. The other firefighters witnessed the fall, including one who stood on the ladder behind Elliott during the exercise. The report indicates that this was the first time a Pompano Beach firefighter has died in the line of duty.

View more videos at: http://nbcmiami.com.

Fire Chief Harry Small was quoted to say,“In order to do this type of work, which is very dangerous, you have to train a lot on your aerial units because that’s risky stuff to begin with. Training is a part of our lives and there’s a number of firefighter fatalities annually in the United States from training exercises. It’s sad but true.”

“We’ve had a death in the family here, essentially,” Small said. “He was an extraordinarily competent guy, one of our best, it’s just very hard to deal with.”

Elliot had no wife or children and had been with the department since 1989.

The Broward Sheriff's Office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are investigating.

(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.)

TFPFP Podcast [01]

2012-01-06T21:30:00.005-05:00

TFPFP Podcast [01] (mp3)

(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.)

Videos of 3-Alarm Fire in Manhattan NY 01.03.12

2012-01-06T16:48:00.016-05:00

YouTube video footage of a three-alarm fire that occurred earlier this week on Tuesday, 3 Jan 2012 at 11:00 p.m., that Ed Gray, known as allhandsgoingtowork on YouTube, recently posted. Temperatures were in the teen for this fire that consumed the building at 4945 Broadway. About 138 NYFD firefighters brought the fire under control around 3a.m. early Wednesday morning. There were sources that told the New York Daily News that the cause of was “illegal nighttime welding,” but according to the NYFD the investigation is ongoing.

Here's a My Fox New York video of the fireground the next morning with neighborhood reactions...

More Than 100 Firefighters Battle Inwood Blaze: MyFoxNY.com

(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.)

Schenectady Gas Explosion – No One Injuried

2012-01-05T16:49:00.012-05:00

On Wednesday afternoon, 4 Jan 2012, at around 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm in the afternoon, a natural gas explosion that was powerful enough to level one home, and severely damaging three neighboring homes took place. The fire scene was located on Avenue B in the 2100 block neighborhood. Schenectady Fire Department firefighters responded after it was reported a contractor was working on a gas leak that resulted in a “Delta Response,” as well as “all available fire department apparatus” to respond to the fire ground scene.

Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco said, “By the time our crews arrived, the gas had ignited and subsequently exploded.”

“There have been a number of these situation statewide where natural gas has been released by people working in buildings,” said Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco, “This is one of those cases that’s a little beyond the normal circumstance.”

House explosion in Schenectady - YNN, Your News Now

“Our investigation has already begun. We’re working with the Department of General Services, also with the police department and our own investigative crews to find out what happened,” said Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco, “The results are typical of a gas explosion. The front, rear and both sides of the building being blown outward, and debris field associated with that.”

During this fire incident there were no reports of anyone being injured.

The Red Cross will be helping the 10 people affected following this gas explosion that damaged their homes.

As of today, 5 Jan 2012, Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco is reported stating the fire incident is still being investigated.

(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 Reports 81 LODDs in 2011

2012-01-03T16:38:00.018-05:00

2011 firefighter fatality statistics are provisional and may change

USFAPublished Tuesday, January 3, 2012EMMITSBURG, MD — The United States Fire Administration (USFA) announced today there were 81 on-duty firefighter fatalities in the United States as a result of incidents that occurred in 2011. This represents an almost seven percent decrease from the 87 fatalities reported for 2010. The 81 fatalities occurred in 33 states, one U.S. territory, and one overseas U.S. military facility. Texas experienced the highest number of fatalities (seven). North Carolina experienced six firefighter deaths and was the only other state with five or more firefighter fatalities.

“In 2004 at the initial Life Safety Summit, a number of fire service leaders did not believe we would complete a calendar year with less than 100 firefighter on-duty deaths,” U.S. Fire Administrator Ernest Mitchell said. "We broke through that perceived barrier in 2009, 2010, and now in 2011! We salute and congratulate our fire service family and pledge to continue working cl
The U.S. Fire Service lost 84 firefighters in the line of duty for 2011. Here is a video from Firehouse.com...osely with the entire fire service community and its partners to maintain and even accelerate this downward trend in on-duty firefighter deaths.”

Heart attacks were responsible for the deaths of 48 firefighters (59%) in 2011, nearly the same proportion of firefighter deaths from heart attack or stroke (60%) in 2010. Ten on-duty firefighters died in association with wildland fires, the lowest number of annual firefighter deaths associated with wildland fires since 1996. Fifty-four percent of all firefighter fatalities occurred while performing emergency duties. Only three firefighters were killed in vehicle collisions.

2011 firefighter fatality statistics are provisional and may change as the USFA contacts State Fire Marshals to verify the names of firefighters reported to have died on duty during 2011. The final number of firefighter fatalities will be reported in USFA's annual firefighter fatality report, expected to be available by July 2012.
For additional information on firefighter fatalities, including the annual fatality reports from 1986 through 2010 and the Firefighter Fatality Retrospective Study 1990–2000, please visit the USFA website.

The following video Honors the Men & Woman who gave their lives in 2011 serving both Volunteer & Career Fire Departments. Please take a moment and Honor them. Our thanks to them for giving their all. Always Remembered, Never Forgotten!
The U.S. Fire Service lost 84 firefighters in the line of duty in 2011. Here’s a link from Firehouse.com of those losses…

Remembering the Fallen of 2011

(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.)

Oxygen Tank Explodes In Brooklyn 2nd Alarm Fire

2012-01-02T16:05:00.008-05:00

More than 100 New York City Fire Fighters responded to a 2-alarm fire at 2223 Cortelyou Road in Flatbush, Brooklyn on New Year Day shortly after 12:00 pm. There were nine persons injured to include three NYFD firefighter but injuries are being reported as non life-threating injuries. All who were injured were taken to Kings County Hospital for medical treatment. The fire started on the 4^th floor of the apartment building and extended up to the sixth floor. There was reported also in this fast moving fire an explosion. One witness at the scene of the fire stated, “ The lady had an oxygen tank on the fourth floor. It exploded so a lot of floors just got messed up because of the oxygen tank.” Fire officials will be investigating cause of the fire as well as investigating the explosion during the fire.

Brooklyn Fire Leaves Nine Injured, Dozens Displaced - NY1.com

(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.)

Chicago Fire Department - Everyone Goes Home

2011-12-28T18:07:00.007-05:00

NFFF News Release: In an effort to make personal safety a top priority, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) today released a new video, Chicago Fire Department – Everyone Goes Home®. Members of the CFD and families of fallen firefighters share their stories in this compelling and moving testimonial of the importance of adhering to safety standards and accepting personal responsibility for following procedures.

Chicago Fire Commissioner Robert Hoff was impressed by a video that the NFFF and the Fire Department of New York produced several years earlier to educate members about the importance of training and safety standards. The FDNY leadership had noticed behavioral improvement among its members following the release of their video. Hoff felt that the members of the CFD could benefit from hearing first-hand accounts of the lessons learned by their colleagues and invited the NFFF to collaborate on a video for Chicago.

“The culture of firefighting requires us to do everything we can to make sound decisions so we can be in a position to help the people we serve when they most need it,” said Ronald J. Siarnicki, executive director of the NFFF. “With this video the firefighters and leadership of the Chicago Fire Department are clearly showing the rest of the fire service you can still be a firefighter and at the same time do your best to make sure Everyone Goes Home®.”

(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.)

LODD Firefighter Jim Rice - A Fireman's Prayer

2011-12-23T23:10:00.003-05:00

LODD Firefighter Jim Rice - A Fireman"s Prayer (mp3)

(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.)

LODD Peabody Fire Department Firefighter...

2011-12-23T19:54:00.013-05:00

Firefighter James Rice, 46-years-old, an 11-year veteran of the Peabody Fire Department, died of injuries combating a 3-alarm fire. It is reported that Firefighter Rice died inside the multiple-family apartment complex between the 1^st and 2^nd floors.

According to The Boston Herald Firefighter Jim Rice inhaled toxic fumes while battling the blaze and received emergency medical treatment at the fire scene. Firefighter Rice was then transported to the North Shore Medical Center in Salem, Mass. where he was pronounced dead.

“Firefighter James Rice was liked and loved by everyone. He was a very popular firefighter he was also a popular man in the community. And he’ll be missed by all of us in the Peabody Fire Department and throughout the entire City of Peabody.

Firefighter Jim Rice leaves a wife and three children. The fire in under investigation by Massachusetts State Troopers, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and Peabody Fire Department Firefighters.

(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.)

Five-alarm San Francisco fire in Historic Alamo Square…

2011-12-22T20:47:00.023-05:00

At least 150 SFFD firefighters, about half the Bay City’s firefighting force, responded and combated a five-alarm blaze where strong winds were a factor, fanning the flames, and pushed the fire that engulfed two structures

It was reported that the fire started in the backyard of a 3-story condominium at 1502 Golden Gate Ave, to where the fast moving fire quickly caught an adjacent 4-story apartment build, located on 1015 Pierce, on fire as well shortly around noon. Two other structures, including a school were damaged at the fire scene.

At one point in the firefighting efforts the blaze was so hot and intense a search for trapped residents could not be done. Firefighters evacuated also for a time for fear of a structure collapse. SFFD Fire Chief Hayes-White stated that firefighters had to forcefully battle the fire or risk losing controlled. “If you don’t make an aggressive attack it is likely you will lose the entire block,” Chief Hayes-White said.

As for injuries on the fire ground, it was reported that one firefighter received minor burns on the back of the neck, and one resident was suffering from smoke inhalation and was treated. Both firefighter and resident were taken to the hospital for treatment. The 5-alarm building blaze left up to 60 residents homeless.

Firefighting crews fought the blaze for more than two hours, around 3:00p.m. PST the fire was declared under control. Cause of the fire is unknown at this time and an arson investigating team will be investigating a cause according to SFFD Fire Chief Hayes-White.

(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.)

3-Alarm Fire Destroys Ballymeade Townhouse, No One Injured

2011-12-20T11:45:00.013-05:00

There was a three- alarm fire yesterday, 12/19/11 at 2:30 pm in the afternoon, in the 800 block of West Boxborough Drive in the Ballymeade Community just outside Wilmington, Delaware. The fire destroyed one house and causing heavy smoke & water damage to several other homes.

The Claymont Fire Company responded and was assisted by many surrounding fire companies fighting the townhouse fire. During the fire there was a radio transmission of a “Mayday” in which initiated a firefighter accountability count of all firefighters on the fire ground. All firefighters were accounted for. At 8 minutes 32 seconds into the following YouTube audio, the Claymount DE fire departments “Mayday” call was canceled. The dispatcher working this alarm transmitted that the “Mayday” restriction was lifted with all firefighters on the fire ground accounted for.

The fully engulfed townhouse that caught fire, in flames with fire shooting out top-floor windows and with fire extending into the exposed connecting housing units collapsed into a pile or rubble. The Townhouse was completely destroyed with adjacent homes damaged with one missing a roof, and the other home in pretty bad shape.

Dozens of firefighters were on-scene combating this three-alarm blaze for several hours.

It has been reported the no one was injured in the fire. Official cause of the townhouse fire fire is being investigated. The Red Cross will be assisting & helping the victims of this three-alarm fire who are now without a home days before Christmas Day.

(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.)

Holiday Safety Tips...

2011-12-13T17:42:00.015-05:00

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 13, 2011

Holiday Safety Alert:

Consumer Injuries Involving Decorations and Decorating Are on the Rise CPSC and UL Provide Tips for a Safe Holiday Home

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Holiday decorating plans do not normally include lacerations, falls and fires. Unfortunately, these hazards make an unwelcome appearance in the homes of thousands of consumers each year. To help avoid hidden decorating dangers, CPSC and UL are providing families with tips for a safe holiday home.

Reports of falls from ladders while stringing lights and hanging decorations, incidents of lacerations from broken glass ornaments and other holiday-related injuries are increasing. During November and December 2010, CPSC estimates that more than 13,000 people were treated in emergency departments nationwide due to injuries involving holiday decorations. This is an increase from 10,000 in 2007 and 12,000 in 2008 and in 2009.

Although estimates of deaths and injuries related to Christmas tree and candle fires are down, there are still an alarming number of incidents. Live trees or other evergreen decorations that have dried out burn fast and hot in a matter of seconds if they come in contact with an open flame.

Between 2006 and 2008, there was an annual average of four deaths and $18 million in property damage related to Christmas tree fires. During this same time period, CPSC received reports of about 130 deaths and $360 million in property losses related to candle fires.

"A well-watered tree, carefully placed candles, and carefully checked holiday light sets will help prevent the joy of the holidays from turning into a trip to the emergency room or the loss of your home," said Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "Follow CPSC's safety tips and give your family the gift of a safe holiday home."

"This is easily the busiest time of year, but it's important to make time for safety while celebrating the holidays," said John Drengenberg, director of consumer safety at UL. "By committing a few minutes each day to safety, many accidents can be avoided and your holidays will be memorable for all the right reasons."

CPSC and UL suggest using the following 12 safety tips to help keep your holiday home safe this year:

Trees and Decorations

Buying live trees, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, its needles are hard to pull from branches, and its needles do not break when bent between your fingers. The bottom of a fresh tree is sticky with resin and, when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
Setting up a tree at home, place it away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, vents, and radiators. Because heated rooms rapidly dry out live trees, be sure to monitor water levels daily and keep the tree stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic, and do not block doorways with the tree.
Buying an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant." Although this label does not mean that the tree will not catch fire, it does indicate that the tree is more resistant to catching fire.
Decorating a tree in homes with small children, take special care to avoid sharp, weighted, or breakable decorations. Keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children who could swallow or inhale small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.

Candles

Keep burning candles within sight. Extinguish all candles before you go to bed, leave the room, or leave the house.
Keep candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface where kids and pets cannot reach them or knock them over. Lighted candles should be placed away from items that can catch fire and burn easily, such as trees, other evergreens, decorations, curtains and furniture.

Lights

Use only lights that have been tested for safety by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as UL. Lights for both indoor and outdoor usage must meet strict requirements that testing laboratories are able to verify. On most decorative lights available in stores, UL's red holographic label signifies that the product meets safety requirements for indoor and outdoor usage. UL's holographic label, with the green UL Mark, signifies it meets requirements for only indoor usage.
Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out damaged sets and do not use electric lights on a metallic tree.
Check each extension cord to make sure it is rated for the intended use.
Check outdoor lights for labels showing that the lights have been certified for outdoor use, and only plug them into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected receptacle or a portable GFCI.

Fireplaces

Use care with "fire salts," which produce colored flames when thrown on wood fires. They contain heavy metals that can cause intense gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting if swallowed. Keep them away from children.
Do not burn wrapping papers in the fireplace. A flash fire may result as wrappings ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

To find more valuable safety information for keeping your home safe and bright this holiday season, please visit www.cpsc.gov or UL's www.SafetyAtHome.com

---

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.

(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.)

Christmas tree fires likely to be more serious than average home fires

2011-12-05T14:55:00.024-05:00

NFPA shares tips for safe holidays

December 2011 – Festive lighting, windowsill candles and ornamented Christmas trees are staples of the holidays, but these decorative items also pose a fire risk if handled improperly. In 2005-2009, on average, one of every 18 reported home Christmas tree fires resulted in a death, compared to an average of one death per 141 total home fires.

Holiday lights and other decorative lighting were involved in an estimated average of 150 home fires per year during the same time. These fires caused an average of eight civilian deaths, 14 injuries, and $8.5 million in direct property damage per year.

“December is an exciting time where almost every home on the block is accented with decorations and seasonal lighting,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “Though decorations such as candles or Christmas trees certainly spread holiday cheer, it is important to follow basic safety steps so celebrations go off without a hitch.”

Video: A demonstration showing how flammable a dry Christmas tree can be as opposed to a tree watered regularly.

Here are NFPA’s tips for safe holiday decorating:

Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Check the packaging; some lights are only for indoor use.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini light sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

For proper Christmas tree safety:

Keep your tree well watered. A dry tree can be extremely dangerous. See how flammable a dry Christmas tree can be in comparison to a well-watered tree in a demonstration by NFPA.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
Get rid of the tree when it is dry. Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

(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.)

NFPA and USFA join forces again to Put a Freeze on Winter Fires

2011-12-05T14:32:00.006-05:00

As we move closer to winter and home fire deaths begin to increase, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) remind everyone that fire safety and prevention are especially important in the coming months. Because home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season, NFPA and USFA are once again jointly sponsoring a special initiative – Put a Freeze on Winter Fires – to help raise public awareness about winter fires.

“These fires are a painful reminder of what we see every year – the temperatures drop and fires increase,” said NFPA President Jim Shannon. According to NFPA statistics, space heaters account for about one third of home heating fires and approximately 80 percent of the home heating fire deaths.

The USFA’s Winter Residential Building Fires (PDF, 1 MB) report shows that each winter an estimated 108,400 residential building fires occur in the United States, resulting in 945 deaths, 3,825 injuries, and $1.7 billion in property loss. Cooking is the leading cause of winter residential building fires at 36 percent followed by heating at 23 percent. Winter residential building fires occur mainly in the early evening hours, peaking from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“The winter season brings the highest number of home fires, more than at any other time of year,” said USFA’s Deputy Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines. “Home fires increase in part due to cooking and heating. Winter storms can also interrupt electrical service and cause people to turn to alternative heating sources that contribute to the increased risk of fire during the winter months.”

The NFPA and USFA recommend following these safety tips to prevent winter home fires:

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period, turn off the stove.
Space heaters need space; keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from each heater.
Check electrical cords often and replace cracked or damaged electrical or extension cords. Do not try to repair them.
Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home. They are not designed for this purpose and can be a fire hazard. In addition, carbon monoxide (CO) gas might kill people and pets.
Do not put your live Christmas tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.
Avoid using lighted candles. If you must use candles, place them in sturdy candleholders that won’t burn.
If you smoke, use only fire-safe cigarettes and smoke outside.

“Winter fires are preventable,” Gaines emphasized. “Everyone should find out what they need to know to prevent a tragedy and have a safe winter season.”

For more information about the causes of winter fires, winter storm fire safety, holiday fire safety, and tips that will help prevent the incidence of fire in the home, visit the USFA website at www.usfa.fema.gov/winter and the NFPA website at www.nfpa.org/winter.

About the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) As an entity of the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency, the mission of the USFA is to provide national leadership to foster a solid foundation for our fire and emergency services stakeholders in prevention, preparedness, and response.

(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 Safe Cooking Holiday Season

2011-11-22T10:13:00.004-05:00

This week, on Thursday, is Thanksgiving Day with the holiday cooking starting across the country as well as marking the start to the holiday season. It is also a time to be reminded and encourage while cooking to take extra precautions and fire safety measures to prevent any kitchen fires from starting. It is hope that this Thanksgiving will be as safe as it was last year.

Fire statistics show that firefighters have responded to a number of kitchen fires each Holiday Season in years past. It is often the case that while the holiday meal is being put together the cook’s attention is diverted from the cooking thus raising the risk of a fire to start. The extra people in the home while the holiday meal is cooking can add to the confusion with the chance of the cook leaving something on the stove too long. The next thing you know, you have a kitchen fire.

DON’T BE A FIRE STATISTIC!

Turkey Fryers are often the source of cooking-related fires when they are used to prepare a holiday season meal. From YouTube® here’s a very important example of what could happen if a turkey fryer is used improperly:

U.S. fire departments are responding to more than 1,000 fires each year when a deep fryer is involved. The National Fire Association says deep fryers fires can result in more than $15 million in property damage each year and hot oil splatter can cause serious burns to an adult or life-threatening to a child.

Using turkey fryers this year to cook a turkey you most take several fire safety steps to insure their safety. Always use the turkey fryer outside and NOT in the garage or house. Make sure the turkey is completely defrosted and dried off before putting in the hot oil. Forgetting to simply drying off the turkey will result in the stating of hot oil splashing and then things begin to catch fire. The BIGGEST DANGER when using the turkey deep-fryer is when it’s not thawed or dried correctly, which can cause the grease or hot oil to splash or thaw. The YouTube® Turkey Fryer Fire Demonstration, presented by William Shatner & State Farm® demonstrated and showed the result of not following proper, very simple, fire safety precautions.

A full charged fire extinguisher should be kept near the door of the kitchen as well as near where you are using the turkey fryer outside. The fire extinguisher is to be used to fight small fires, when they are just started, and one should always escape from the fire area if the fire gets out of had where it cannot be put out with portable fire extinguish. When there is a fire, don’t hesitate to call 911, and call before fighting the fire or have someone call when you are using the fire extinguisher.

As the popularity of turkey fryers increase, more people are at risk for injury or property damage as information from State Farms Insurance states.

Fire Safety does not stop just because it’s the holiday season, and we need to keep this in mind as we celebrating. Remember that one of the leading causes of home fires is unattended cooking. When you are cooking, stay in the kitchen, stay with that turkey fryer. If you have to leave, for whatever reason, make sure you turn the appliance off. If there’s a pot on the stove, move it from one heat element after turning element off to another cooler element. If you ever have a pot of grease or hot oil catch fire, cover it with a lid, turn off the switch to it, and NEVER NEVER put a grease/hot oil fire with water as that will result only making a bad fire into a worse fire.

A little extra attention during the hectic holiday season goes a long way to keeping family and guests fire safe.

(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.)

Prevent Space Heaters Making A Spark This Winter

2011-11-13T19:27:00.014-05:00

With colder winter months ahead and temperatures already turning cooler the need to supplement extra heat with the use of space heaters will be on the raise. During winter there are more fires caused by heating devices when precautions and safe guards are not in use or observed.

Already for the month of November there have been serious damaging fires that have happened most probably due to electrical space heaters. When there are these types of fire there’s reason to speculate that fire safety and fire prevention practices were lacking

Here are fires that happen so far, with suspected space heater as a cause for this month with no real digging for on the internet…

November 2: White Plains, New York — A fire killed 16 dogs, including puppies… in a suburban breeder’s backyard kennel, which an inspector later said was illegal. …the cause of the fire may have been a heat lamp or space heater….16 dogs die in fire at NY kennel that inspector says was illegal; space heater eyed as cause…

November 4, 2011: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Fire Official: Space Heater To Blame For Blaze. A space heater is believed to have caused a house fire in southeast Oklahoma City, fire officials said.

November 4, 2011: St. Louis, Missouri — Space heater to blame in St. Louis house fire…after a space heater caught fire in the room…

November 11, 2011: Atlanta, Georgia — House burns after Atlanta space heater fire…after a space heater was left on…and didn’t think twice about leaving a small space heater on top of a bedroom dresser…

November 11, 2011: Summit, Arkansas — A electric heater appeared to be the cause of a fire that destroyed a home Friday in Summit, fire officials said. …The fire appeared to have started from an electrical space heater in the front bedroom…The four-bedroom is a total loss…

November 12, 2011: Volney, New York – An apartment building blaze…Space heater suspected cause in fire… believed that the fire was caused by a space heater plugged in to an extension cord in the middle of the building in one of the downstairs apartments.

At the Volney, New York fire this past weekend, firefighters say a space heater likely touched off the massive fire. It took more than two hours to put out and has left several people homeless. The following YouTube® shows a news report of the actual fire response and scene…

Also, At the Volney, New York fire, one volunteer firefighter was reported being startled when a wall collapsed on him, luckily he wasn’t physically injured but was “a little dazed.” Another volunteer firefighter was slightly injured after falling five feet off a ladder. “Scene Safety” becomes paramount to the firefighter when on the fire ground but can be easily overlooked combating the fire but shouldn’t.

If you must use a space heater for heat, use it as safely as possible.

• When buying a heater, look for one that has been tested and labeled by a nationally recognized testing company, such as Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL).

• Keep the heater three feet away from drapes, furniture or other flammable materials.

• Place the heater on a level surface away from areas where someone might bump into it and knock it over.

• Avoid using extension cords. If you must use an extension cord, make sure it is a heavy duty cord marked with a power rating at least as high as that on the label of the heater itself.

• Never leave a space heater unattended or running while you sleep.

• Supervise children and pets when a space heater is in use.

• Keep electric heaters away from water. Never use them near a sink or in the bathroom.

(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.)

Soda Fountain CO2 Leak Harmful to Responders…

2011-11-10T18:53:00.008-05:00

Carbon dioxide that travels through piping to soda fountains in places such as popular fast food restaurants can be deadly if leaking occurs or if there’s an improperly connected carbon dioxide line to the soda machine. Leaking of carbon dioxide in a large amount will and have resulted in hazmat incidents.

Carbon dioxide is used in soda fountains to make the water “carbonated” with bubbles before it is blended with flavored syrup, such as that from Coke or Pepsi.

According to material safety data sheet on the gas, carbon dioxide in high concentration can quickly crowd out the oxygen in the air, leading to dizziness, unconsciousness and, sometimes death.

Some facts about CO₂:

Typically found in a gaseous state
Colorless, Odorless, Tasteless
Pressurized into liquid state
DOT Placard: Green, category 2, non-flammable
NFPA 704 Marking System: 3 Health, 0 Fire, 0 Reactivity, 0 Special Hazard
Expansion ratio nearly 3000 to 1
Displaces O₂, asphyxiant
Cryogenic

The Phoenix (AZ) Fire Department developed and has sent out via YouTube® for all emergency responders to view a “lesson learned” of a very important safety alert. The following YouTube® is to warn Firefighters, EMT’s, and Emergency Responders when responding about a new hazard of the job: Liquefied CO2 systems that are being used in fast food restaurants, convenience stories, and all other businesses…

This is a case study on what appeared to be a routine medical incident but involved CO2 exposure and a near miss.

(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.)

Thanksgiving is peak day for home cooking fires

2011-11-09T19:19:00.016-05:00

NFPA urges caution when preparing holiday meals

November 9, 2011 – The number of home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day was three times the national average of fires per day in 2009, according the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.) NFPA is urging the public to keep fire safety in mind when preparing holiday meals.

“Thanksgiving can be a whirlwind of cooking and entertaining guests,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of communications for NFPA. “With so much multitasking taking place, fire hazards around the oven or stovetop can easily be overlooked. Cooks should be conscious of fire safety this Thanksgiving whether the menu is meant to serve two or 20.”

Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and related injuries. In 2005-2009, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 155,400 home fires per year involving cooking equipment. These fires caused an annual average of 390 civilian deaths, 4,800 civilian injuries, and $771 million in direct property damage.

Download NFPA's Thanksgiving safety tips. (PDF, 868 KB)

To reduce the risk of cooking fires this holiday, NFPA recommends the following safety tips:

Keep anything that can catch fire such as oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains away from the stovetop.
Always stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you have to leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
When simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
Stay alert. If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire…

Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear path (to your way out of the home and someone has called the fire department).
Keep a lid nearby when cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

(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.)

Nov. 9 Nationwide Test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS)

2011-11-06T19:21:00.002-05:00

FEMA and the FCC will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) at 2 pm eastern time on Nov. 9; the alert will be transmitted throughout the country and will be monitored by EAS participants. After it has been completed, EAS participants will report to the FCC on the results. Although the nationwide test may resemble the periodic monthly EAS tests most consumers are familiar with, consumers may see or hear some differences.

FCC Public Notice (pdf)

Consumer Factsheet (pdf)

(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.)

Time to Turn Back One Hour / Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

2011-10-26T18:00:00.001-04:00

It is time to reset your clocks! This year, Daylight Savings Time officially ends on Sunday, November 6, 2011 when clocks are set back one hour at 2:00 a.m.

After turning the clocks back one hour, spend part of the hour gained to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Test those smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also for that monthly test.

In 2010, there were 1,331,500 fires, resulting in 3,120 deaths and 17,720 injuries, according to the U.S. Fire Administration

The USFA notes, "One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that can sound fast for both a fire that has flames, and a smoky fire that has fumes without flames. It is called a ‘Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm.’ A smoke alarm greatly reduces your chances of dying in a fire."

The recommendation is to install the alarms everywhere they are needed and to keep them maintained. At the very least, there should be a smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Good places for alarms are near dens, living rooms, and family rooms.

As a minimum, one smoke detector is required on each level of the home, including the basement. One smoke detector must be outside the bedrooms. If the home has bedrooms on more than one level, one smoke detector is required outside of each area.

Keep detectors away from windows, doors, or forced air registers.

Detectors should be tested at least monthly, and if you can do so check them weekly by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Replace any smoke detectors in the home that are 8 to 10 years old with new ones. Batteries should be changed twice a year and it has become common practice to do this when we change the clocks to daylight savings time and then back to standard time, which occurs this Nov. 6.

It simple, the only good smoke detector is one that works. BEEP-BEEP-BEEP A Sound You Can Live With! Learn Not To Burn, Be Fire Safe!

(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.)

Stay safe on the spookiest day of the year

2011-10-24T09:15:00.007-04:00

NEWS RELEASE:
NFPA’s tips on staying fire safe for the holiday

October 2011 – It’s time again for the creepy decorations, falling leaves, endless costumes, and lit Jack-o-lanterns. As families across the country begin to prepare for what has become an increasingly popular holiday, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is reminding everyone to take a few simple safety precautions in order to ensure a fun, safe, and not too scary Halloween.

“It’s an exciting holiday especially for the kids but if precautions are not taken, scary things can happen,” said Lorraine Carli NFPA’s vice president of communications. “Candle decorations and flowing costumes create an extra risk of fire.” According to Carli, candle fires represent a leading cause of U.S. home fires and Halloween is one of the top five days for candle fires.

Send a Sparky e-card to celebrate the holiday.

Judy Comoletti, NFPA Division Manager of Public Education, talks about how planning ahead can help make this Halloween a fire-safe one.

NFPA offers the following safety tips to help keep horror from striking your home this season:

When choosing a costume, stay away from billowing or long, trailing fabric. If you are making your own costume, choose material that won't easily ignite if it comes into contact with heat or flame. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see out.
Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costume.
Dried flowers, cornstalks and crepe paper are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
It is safest to use a flashlight or battery-operated candles in a Jack-o-lantern. If you use a real candle, use extreme caution. Make sure children are watched at all times when candles are lit. When lighting candles inside Jack-o-lanterns, use long fireplace-style matches or a utility lighter. Be sure to place lit pumpkins well away from anything that can burn and far enough out of the way of trick-or-treaters, doorsteps, walkways and yards.
If you choose to use candle decorations, make sure to keep them well attended at all times.
Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes.
Tell children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire. (Have them practice stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out.)
Use flashlights as alternatives to candles or torch lights when decorating walkways and yards. They are much safer for trick-or-treaters, whose costumes may brush against the lighting.
If your children are going to Halloween parties at others’ homes, have them look for ways out of the home and plan how they would get out in an emergency.
Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult.
Remind children to stay together as a group and walk from house to house.
Review how to cross a street with your child. Look left, right and left again to be sure no cars are approaching before crossing the street.
Make a rule that children will not eat any treat until it has been brought home and examined by a grown-up.

(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.)

The Bell Rings 5-5-5...

2011-10-17T18:01:00.012-04:00

On Sunday, October 16, 2011 the names of 89 Fallen Firefighters were honored and their names added to the national memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Here are highlights from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation 2011 Memorial Service:

The 30th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg was a tearful ceremony remembering and honoring those firefighters that had fallen in The Line Of Duty.

The fire service has a lot of traditions. Throughout most of history, the life of a firefighter has been closely associated with the ringing of a bell.

Acting Deputy USFA Administrator Denis Onieal explained the history of ringing a bell in a 5-5-5 sequence. "Done for the purposed of notification, and as a sign of honor and respect, such symbolism has been a long-honored fire service tradition which still continues in some cities today…"

Onieal added: "…For those who have selflessly devoted their lives for the good of their communities and fellow citizens, the bell tolls their last alarm for they have gone home."

As firefighter's began theirs hours of duty, it was a bell that started it off. Through the day and the night, each alarm was sounded with a bell, which called the firefighter to fight a fire or to rescue a person.

All emergency response placed the firefighter's life in jeopardy for the good of all. And... when the fire was out, or the rescue accomplished, the alarm had come to an end, the bell rang 5-5-5 to signal the end.

This past weekend our fathers, husbands, brothers, friends,... our brother firefighters, have completed their task and their duties are well done...

The bell rings 5-5-5 in memory of and in tribute to our fallen firefighters lives and their service...

The 89 Fallen Firefighters Will Be Missed... Never Forgotten...

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

Remembering The Fallen...

2011-10-14T11:04:00.022-04:00

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Fire Administration announce that the 30th annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend will be held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg on October 14 - 16, 2011. A plaque with the names of 72 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2010 and 17 who died in previous years will be added to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, located here on the National Fire Academy campus. The plaques surrounding the Memorial, which was established in 1981, will contain the names of more than 3,400 firefighters.

A message from National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Executive Director Ron Siarnicki about Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters. It is a new addition to the 2011 Memorial Weekend on the 30th Anniversary of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial - October 14 to 16, 2011.
http://weekend.firehero.org/

I first met Mr Leroy Kemp on a Saturday January evening in 2010, just a few days before his passing, at our volunteer fire department’s annual banquet. Leroy was a guest that night from our neighbor volunteer fire department, and I had the honor of sitting next to him for the evening meal. From our conversations we all had at the table that evening, I never felt more privilege to know such a man as LeRoy who had severed his community over so many years.

As a volunteer firefighter for more than 50 years, LeRoy Kemp was always ready to respond. "LeRoy was a genuine, good person. He always saw the good side of everybody, ..." said John Scott, Tioga County Fire Coordinator

Always willing to assist in a time of need, LeRoy was a lifetime member of the Tioga Center Fire and Emergency Departments, where he had served as Chief, EMT and Fire Police. In addition, he was Chairman of the Board for the Fire Commissioners and had assisted with the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team. He was a dedicated and well respected fireman who will be greatly missed by his community and his fellow members.

This weekend LeRoy Kemp will be honored as a firefighter, a long-time servant to his community, and remembered a fallen hero.

Firefighter LeRoy A. Kemp, 81, of the Tioga Center Fire Department in Tioga County, died in a motor vehicle accident while en route to a mutual aid call on Jan. 13, 2010.

The name of the former Tioga Center Fire Department firefighter will be added to a bronze plaque along with the names of 72 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2010 and 17 who died in previous years.

10 New York firefighters will be recognized at the ceremony taking place this weekend at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the Department of Homeland Security sponsor the event.

The other nine firefighters from New York state that will be honored this weekend are:

• Fire Police Capt. William E. Akin Jr., 54, of the Ghent Volunteer Fire Company in Ghent, Columbia County, died in a car accident while responding to the scene of a different car accident on Oct. 19, 2010.

• Firefighter Scott W. Davis, 46, of the Oswego Fire Department in Oswego County, died after suffering a heart attack within 24 hours after several emergency responses on June 20, 2010.

• Capt. Vincent A. Iaccino, 64, of the Roosevelt Fire District Engine Company1 in Hyde Park, died after suffering a heart attack during fire department training on April 12, 2010

• Firefighter John P. Kelly, 51, of the Tarrytown Fire Department in Westchester County, died after being overcome by fumes during a confined space rescue in a sewer drain Sept. 6, 2010.

• Firefighter Erich Lachmann, 74, of the Washington Heights Fire Department in Middletown, Orange County, died on Jan. 28, 2007, after suffering a stroke within 24 hours of responding to an emergency on Jan. 15, 2007.

• Assistant Chief Garrett W. Loomis, 26, of the Sackets Harbor Fire Department in Jefferson County died on April 11, 2010, of trauma sustained after an explosion on the scene of a silo fire.

• Firefighter Gerard Marcheterre, 50, of the Borodino Fire Department in Onondaga County, died after suffering a medical emergency while responding to a structural collapse on March 6, 2010.

• Firefighter Salvatore Scarentino, 51, of the Fire Department of New York, died after suffering a heart attack within 24 hours of responding to emergency calls on March 21, 2009.

• Lt. Josef L. Welenofsky, 46, of the Holtsville Fire Department in Suffolk County, died within 24 hours of responding to a call for a motor vehicle accident on Jan. 27, 2007.

According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), a bronze plaque containing Leroy Kemp’s name will be added to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

"Firefighters are called upon to face danger on a daily basis," said Chairman of the NFFF Board of Directors, Chief Dennis Compton, in a statement. "In October, a grateful Nation will honor their dedication and remember their sacrifice. The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend brings their loved ones and the fire service together to let their families, coworkers, and friends know that they will never be forgotten."

You are missed Leroy but…

Never Forgotten Sir...

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

A Fire Safe Home: Install Smoke Alarms, Practice a Family Escape Plan

2011-10-12T19:54:00.011-04:00

"Protect Your Family From Fire"

Press Releases By: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) urge consumers to take time during Fire Prevention Week to check their homes for fire risks and to develop and practice a family escape plan.

CPSC estimates an annual average of more than 386,000 unintentional residential fires (pdf), nearly 2,400 deaths and more the 12,500 injuries each year from 2006 through 2008.

“Build layers of fire safety in your home,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “Install smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom. If you already have smoke alarms, make sure they are working. Smoke alarms provide early warning of a potentially deadly fire and can reduce the risk of dying from fire in your home by almost half.”

“Planning a home fire escape is an essential part of being prepared to act and get out quickly if a fire occurs,” said NFPA President James M. Shannon. “Develop a fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of every room and a family meeting place outside. Practice your plan at least twice a year.”

Safe practices, such as the following, are the first line of defense in preventing a fire in your home:

Install smoke alarms – A smoke alarm (pdf) should be installed on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas and inside bedrooms. When it comes to surviving a fire, a smoke alarm is critical for early detection of a fire and can mean the difference between life and death. About two-thirds of fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or smoke alarms that don’t work.
Install both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms. Alarms should have battery backup. Consider installing interconnected smoke alarms because when one sounds, they all sound throughout the home.

Have a family escape plan – Develop and practice a family escape plan. Make sure everyone knows how to escape when the smoke alarm sounds, whether awake or asleep at the time. The best plans have two ways to get out of each room. Designate a meeting place outside. Once out, stay out! To help make a family escape plan, see this NFPA publication (pdf).

Cook safely – Stay in the kitchen and keep a watchful eye while you are cooking. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of cooking fires. Cooking equipment accounted for the largest percentage of home fires from 2006 through 2008 that were reported by fire departments. For this time period, CPSC estimates an annual average of nearly 150,000 cooking fires which is nearly 40 percent of unintentional residential fires. These fires resulted in an average of 150 deaths each year.

Fireplace safety – Have fireplace flues and chimneys inspected for leakage and blockage from creosote or debris every year. Store fireplace ashes in a fire-resistant container, and cover the container with a lid. Keep the container outdoors and away from combustibles. Dispose of ashes carefully, keeping them away from dry leaves, trash or other combustible materials.
Heating and cooling equipment accounted for the second-largest percentage of home fires from 2006 through 2008. CPSC estimates an annual average of nearly 57,000 fires and 220 deaths during that time period. Fireplaces and chimneys represented the majority of those fires with an annual average of nearly 27,000 from 2006 through 2008.

Electrical safety – CPSC estimates there was an annual average of 150 deaths from 2006 through 2008 attributable to electrical components.
Check the ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) (pdf) in your home to make sure they’re working. GFCIs can prevent electrocution. CPSC recommends installing GFCIs in the kitchen, bathrooms and other areas where the risk of electric shock is higher.
Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs). AFCIs are designed to protect against fires caused by arcing faults in a home’s electrical wiring.
For more information, see CPSC’s “Home Electrical Safety Checklist.” (pdf)

Avoid mattress fires (pdf) – Don’t allow children to play with candles, lighters or smoking materials. Extinguish candles before you leave the room. Buy a mattress that meets the federal flammability standards. The open flame standard limits the intensity of mattress fires and provides more escape time for consumers.

Use caution when smoking – Smoking materials caused the most deaths in residential fires, an average of 600 deaths each year from 2006 through 2008. Don’t smoke in bed.

Don’t use gel fuel in firepots – CPSC has recalled millions of bottles of gel fuel due to burn and flash-fire hazards. The pourable gel fuel can ignite unexpectedly and splatter onto people and objects nearby when it is poured into a firepot that is still burning. Contact the manufacturer to return the product for a full refund. There have been deaths associated with gel fuel.

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

It's Fire Prevention Week! Protect Your Family From Fire! – Oct 9-15, 2011

2011-10-09T06:00:00.024-04:00

The National Fire Protection Association has recognized Oct. 9 through Oct. 15 as Fire Prevention Week for 86 years now. Fire Prevention Week was started by President Calvin Coolidge in 1925 and always is the week in which Oct. 9 falls. Fire Prevention Week coincides with the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, Oct. 8-10, 1871.

According to the National Archives and Records Administration’s Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record.

During this week, emphasizes will be placed on how to “Protect Your Family from Fire.” To do this you have to just do some basic but very important steps. Practicing these fire safety measures throughout the year is essential to a good solid fire prevention plan that will help protect those you love.

This year, our National Fire Prevention Week campaign is all about keeping you, your family, and your community safer from fire. You'll find educational material and tip sheets on the leading causes of home fires, information about protecting your home and families with life-saving technologies, and the importance of home escape planning by go to ...

The NFPA’s

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK web page…

Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention reminds all to change their smoke detector batteries when they change their clocks, practice an in-home fire escape plan, and be fire safety smart.

Fires can strike anywhere – in structures, buildings, automobiles, and the outdoors – but fires that affect our homes are often the most tragic and the most preventable.

Over 75% percent of all fire fatalities occur in home fires.

This year' s National Fire Prevention Week theme is "Protect Your Family from Fire." You can protect your family by:

Installing smoke alarms on every level of your home,
Testing smoke alarms once a month,
Changing smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, and
Making and practicing a home fire escape plan.

For more specific details on how these four fire safety items can be practiced in your fire prevention practices at home go to the U.S. Fire Administration’s Focus on Fire Safety web page…

Many fire departments across the county will host open house events highlighting equipment, apparatus and the different emergency services provided to the community. For more information and to find out what is happening in your area thi s week, call the local fire department for times & dates.

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

The key to getting out alive? Have an Escape Plan!

2011-10-02T17:49:00.009-04:00

In the event of a home fire or major disaster, will you know what to do? It’s important for your family to have an escape plan and to practice it on a regular basis. Having an escape plan that is known by all members of your family can be the key to getting out alive.

An escape plan consists of knowing two ways out of each room. In addition to knowing two ways out of each room, your family should have a meeting place outside your home where everyone knows where to congregate once they’ve escaped. Examples of good meeting places would include a mailbox, tree or landmark a safe distance in front of your house.

Once you’re out, stay out! When rescuers arrive at your home, they will ask members at the meeting place if anyone is missing. This will allow rescuers to determine whether or not they need to enter your home to search for a missing person.

Developing an escape plan is a great start. It is also important to practice your escape plan regularly so that there is no question as to where everyone should meet in case of an emergency.

Escape plan grids are available online at www.sparky.org for families who are interested in mapping out their escape plans. Be proactive in your life fire safety efforts. Have an Escape Plan!

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

Gear Up for Fire Prevention Week with Useful Tools from the NFPA

2011-09-20T16:58:00.005-04:00

"Protect Your Family From Fire"

News releases By: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) annual public awareness campaign, Fire Prevention Week (FPW), begins October 9. This year’s theme is focused on educating families about what causes home fires, how to prevent them, and what to do in an emergency situation.

The Fire Prevention Week website offers helpful tools and resources for anyone wanting to run a community campaign or people simply trying to educate themselves or family members. Some features on the site include the Fire Prevention Week quiz, public service announcement videos, fire safety resources for families, and safety tip sheets covering a broad range of topics.

Fire Prevention Week website visitors can test their fire safety IQ with the Fire Week Prevention Quiz, which asks questions about pertinent fire safety information such as, “Where do most home fires start?” and “What time in the day do home fires peak?” At the end of the quiz, visitors can see how they did, review correct answers, and even showcase their results on Facebook or Twitter.

Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy audio and video public service announcements that touch upon the topics of escape planning and smoke alarms. The videos feature NFPA’s mascot Sparky, who is voiced by firefighter Barry Brickey, winner of the popular “Voice of Sparky” contest.

Parents and children can learn about home fire safety together with a printer-friendly version of the Family Fire Safety Checklist. The checklist is contoured for grown-ups and kids to familiarize the whole family with smoke alarms and fire escape planning. Hanging the checklist on the fridge is a great way to keep the family aware of fire safety.

Safety Tip Sheets are also available on the FPW website and cover cooking, escape planning, heating, smoke alarms, home fire sprinklers, candles, electric wiring, and smoking materials. The detailed sheets offer life-saving safety tips as well as relevant information and statistics related to home fire safety.

Visit the Fire Prevention Week website for safety tips, statistical information, and more. The materials are available for use by fire departments, teachers, families and anyone interested in learning or teaching about fire safety.

About Fire Prevention Week NFPA has been the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week since 1922. According to the National Archives and Records Administration's Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The President of the United States has signed a proclamation proclaiming a national observance during that week every year since 1925.

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

NFPA Releases 2010 "Fire Loss in the U.S." Report

2011-09-18T17:43:00.012-04:00

Fire departments across the U.S. responded to fewer fires in 2010 than in the previous year, according to a new report, but the number of fire deaths increased slightly.

Public fire departments responded to 1,331,500 fires during 2010, the lowest number since 1977, according to a report issued Friday by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

These fires caused an estimated 3,120 civilian fire deaths, a 4 percent increase from a year ago; an estimated 17,720 civilian fire injuries, also a 4 percent increase from the previous year; and more than $11.5 billion in property damage, a significant decrease from the year before.

Fire Loss in the U.S. analyzes 2010 figures for fires, civilian fire deaths, injuries, property damage, and intentionally set fires. Estimates are based on data collected from fire departments that responded to NFPA’s Annual National Fire Experience Survey.

There were an estimated 482,000 structure fires reported to fire departments in 2010, a very slight increase from a year ago. The number of structure fires was at their peak in 1977, the first year that NFPA implemented its current survey methodology, when 1,098,000 structure fires occurred.

“We have made tremendous progress in reducing the fire problem in the United States since we began looking at these numbers in the late 70’s,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Communications for NFPA. “But this report shows us that more must be done to bring the numbers down even further. We continue to see the vast majority of deaths occurring in homes, a place where people often feel safest. These survey results will be combined with data from the U.S. Fire Administration’s (USFA’s) National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to determine how often specific fire circumstances occur and where we can most effectively focus our efforts.”

Other key findings from the report include:
• A fire department responded to a fire every 24 seconds.
• 384,000 fires or 80 percent of all structure fires occurred in residential properties.
• About 85 percent of all fire deaths occurred in the home.
• 215,500 vehicle fires occurred in the U.S. during 2010, causing 310 civilian fire deaths, 1,590 civilian fire injuries and $1.4 billion in property damage.
• 634,000 outside and other fires occurred in the U.S. during 2010 causing $501 million in property damage.

“USFA is pleased to share in the release of NFPA’s annual fire loss report,” said Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines. “NFPA’s survey is greatly valued by USFA and aids in producing national estimates of more detailed fires and losses as reported to NFIRS. These combined efforts enable us to analyze the fire problem at a more detailed level and develop prevention strategies to reduce the risk of fire and loss of life and property to the American public.”

To download the full report “Fire Loss in the United States during 2010,” please visit www.nfpa.org/assets/files/pdf/os.fireloss.pdf.

About NFIRS and NFPA’s National Fire Experience Survey
The NFPA Annual National Fire Experience Survey is used to make estimates of the overall fire problem in the United States with breakdowns by general occupancy, size of community, and region of the country. This survey when used in conjunction with the USFA’s NFIRS allows national estimates of more detailed aspects of the fire problem.

NFIRS represents the world’s largest, national, annual database of fire incident information. NFIRS is a voluntary reporting system administered by the USFA and organized at the national level. NFIRS reports, filled out by local fire officers after each incident, provide the most detailed incident information of any national database. NFIRS is the only database capable of addressing national patterns for fires of all sizes by specific occupancy and fire cause. NFIRS also captures information on when the fire occurred, how much it spread, and the effectiveness of automatic detection and suppression equipment.

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

The Great Flood of 2011

2011-09-13T17:45:00.007-04:00

Well, with heavy rain coming down all day, we lost power last Wednesday (9/7/11) at 11:15 pm with the Susquehanna River here in the Southern Tier of New York State on the rise. On Thursday morning (9/8/11) at about 03:45 am we got the word we had to evacuate our homes to higher ground. It was being reported/being told that the river water was at the top of the dike system that surrounds & protects the little Village from the flood waters on the brink of following over. The flood level along the Susquehanna River was pushing near 40 feet at this point, which was 3-4 feet higher than the 2006 Flood.

With family and friends safe on high ground at the local Village elementary school made into a community shelter, we waited it out for about 30 hours for the water levels to lower. On Friday (9/9/11) 11:00 am we were clear to head back to our homes in the Village. At my home we found that we only had 2 and a half feet of water in the basement where once the sump pump was started, on generator power, keep the water level where it was at till levels began to recede. We were very fortunate & lucky that’s all we had to deal with and I was proud that the dike system had held to protected our little Village from a greater disaster that was affecting the rest of our county and neighboring counties. Our thoughts and prayers are with those dealing with alot more.

After being on generator power for 4+ days waiting & watching the ground water as well as river water receding back, we started the process to dry thing and help our neighbors as best we can. On Monday evening (9/12/11) about 7:45 pm, being positive after making a bet with my neighbor that electrical power would be on by Wednesday @ 6:30 pm for four quarters, I met my neighbor at my back porch door who handed me four quarters. I just looked at those four quarters and said, “Wow, the power is back on!”

Today Tuesday (9/13/11) life got back to a little normal in the little Village I live in and we are luckier than most in the area here due to the dike that held its ground and held the flood waters at bay.

Pictures of The Great Flood of 2011:

Great Flood of 2011, Tioga County NY (27 photos)

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

National Preparedness Month - September 2011

2011-09-06T16:45:00.006-04:00

September is National Preparedness Month, as well as marking the 10-year anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks this weekend. Preparedness is a responsibility for the whole community where ever you may live. Individuals, businesses, community organizations, faith-based groups, and state, local and tribal governments should focus this month on preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters.

The National Preparedness Month campaign theme for 2011 is "A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare." The purpose of this awareness of being prepared is to encourage all Americans to take the necessary steps to ensure that their homes, workplaces and communities are prepared for disasters and emergencies.

With earthquake, tropical storm, hurricanes, tornado, and wildfires taking place this last week, as well as currently, and looming on the horizon we all need to know what to do to take the time in preparing for these disasters be they natural or manmade. Everyone is encouraged to take action in making sure your family, neighborhood and community are ready for emergencies and disasters of all types.

Preparing can start with three important steps:

1. Get an emergency supply kit
2. Make a plan for what to do in an emergency
3. Be informed about emergencies that could happen in your community, and identify sources of information in your community that will be helpful before, during and after an emergency

Put together an emergency supply kit. After a major disaster (whether tornadoes/high winds, flooding, major wildfires, or hazmat emergencies), there is often a disruption of normal services. This includes electricity, telephones, and sewer systems, as well as the ability to obtain fresh food and drinking water. Experts recommend that every citizen should have a disaster supply kit on hand, well-stocked enough to allow them to be self-sufficient for at least three days. Disaster kits should be stored in a waterproof container in an easily accessible location.

Some recommended kit items from www.Ready.gov include:

Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

First aid kit

Whistle to signal for help

Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter- in-place

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

Local maps

Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

Prescription medications and glasses

Infant formula and diapers

Pet food and extra water for your pet

Cash or traveler's checks and change

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.

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