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Firefighters & EMT’s with Multiple Sclerosis

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I am seeking information on this topic. Leave links, info, etc. in the comments please.

Discuss it on the Fire Critic Facebook Page as well

I have a friend, a brother, who suffers from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). He is a Firefighter & Paramedic in a dual role department. His recent diagnosis was shocking for him to say the least, but he has held his head high. I cannot imagine what he is going through and it shows his strength. He is currently on light duty due to the disease. I admit, I did not know much about the disease until he told me about his diagnosis. He informed me of what he knew about it and I have read up on it a little since then. There is no cure for MS. Also, Multiple Sclerosis is not the same as Muscular Dystrophy.

Image from U.S. National Library of Medicine - The World's Largest Medical Library

I speak with him occasionally about his progress and the disease’s progression. Since his diagnosis, he has been able to begin medication which (from what I understand) will lessen the effects of MS and prolong its progression. He wants to come back to work and when I spoke to him the other day he said he felt great. His medication has helped with the signs and symptoms he was experiencing prior to the diagnosis.

I hope he is capable to return to work. I also hope that if he isn’t able to, our department doesn’t cast him away as they have some of my other brothers who have suffered from ailments (including injuries sustained at work).

So what is Multiple Sclerosis?

PubMedHealth:

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).

It is more common in women than men and commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20-40.

The outcome varies, and is hard to predict. Although the disorder is chronic and incurable, life expectancy can be normal or almost normal. Most people with MS continue to walk and function at work with minimal disability for 20 or more years.

The range of people who are effected by MS is 2-150 out of every 100,000.

More information on Wikipedia here.

I have not been able to find much information on firefighters and/or EMT’s who suffer from the disease and are able to maintain an active duty role in suppression operations. I have found several articles on firefighters able to continue working in a non-suppression role.

I did find this article about Oswego Firefighter/Paramedic Dave Sackett from April 2011.

MS has not changed Sackett’s daily work routine. He completes all trainings, all house duties and all physical tests. However, he is more cautious and refuses to take any risks that put himself, co-workers or patients in danger. read more

I also found a thread on MSWorld.com. the thread started in July of 2010 and has been updated as recently as September 2011. read more

If you have any information, words of wisdom/encouragement, or links to other stories please leave them in the comments section below.

Posted by on January 30, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Fires, Stair Climbs, Training, Best of 2011, a Huge FAIL and Much More

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Welcome to a new column here on FireCritic.com. I am shooting for having this column run on Tuesdays each week. If you have something you want to share whether you are a reader or blogger, have a video or photo, or anything else just let me know.

The Best of the Rest is a column featuring other bloggers, videos, news, and information you might have missed over the past week or so. Enjoy!

You can also follow along and connect with The Fire Critic via Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Youtube.

As seen on FailBlog.com

Addison Fire Protection District – Can this be real? FailBlog.com has this photo of the message board at Addison Fire Protection District Station #3. The message “Better to arrive late than never”..WTF? Who approved this? Maybe the Chief’s message was directed to firefighters and should have read “Better to arrive safe than never”…or maybe it is meant as a message to the citizens and should have been “Call 911 and we will get there whenever we can”.

Daily911Deals.com - 40% OFF MN8 Foxfire Illuminating and Reflective Helmet Tetrahedrons. EXCLUSIVE NEW PRODUCT! I think they are pretty decent tetrahedrons. Read my review here.

Firehouse Zen- Chief Mick Mayers continues to lay it down in his writings that occasionally have me seeking dictionary.com for a definition. Don’t let that dissuade you from reading though. He offers some great insight to the fire service. Check out: OKAY, IT’S 2012: NOW WHAT? and 2012: “WHAT IF?”.

Statter911.com – Dave offers a video of a house fire in Maryland. This is video posted yesterday of a December 23 fire in Upper Marlboro, Maryland (Prince George’s County) Raw Video: PGFD House Fire in Upper Marlboro. Switch to Defensive Operations

911 Memorial Stairclimbs – The majority of the stair climb events are now affiliated with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. One of the original climbs is a bit smaller scale and has a local feel. The Albequrque Stair Climb started in 2003. Read more about it here. If you are looking for a stair climb event check out http://www.9-11stairclimb.com/

Here is a lost photo I just found. This is a picture of Willie and I immediately after climbing 110 floors in Atlanta at FRI for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

FireGeezer.com - A FIRE LATE SUNDAY NIGHT in a downtown brothel in Mitchell, Australia, is still deemed suspicious by the fire investigators.  The Canberra area business was closed for New Year’s Day, as all the city’s brothels were when smoke was discovered coming from The Gentlemen’s Club on Grimwade Street around 11 pm. http://firegeezer.com/2012/01/02/brothel-fire-suspicious/

The Colorado Firefighter Facebook Page - This page continues to impress me on the sharing of links and information. Check them out here and click “like”!

ELAFFHQ.com – Their latest post “Raise money for a good cause, and get a chance to win a leather helmet” is just that…a chance to win a Phenix Leather Helmet. The chances are $1 a piece and the helmet will be given away once they reach $1000 for the National Firefighters Endowment. Click here to go directly to the donation page. They are currently 1/4 of the way to their goal! The Fire Critic gave $50…If I win the helmet I will give it away to pay it forward!

Fire Service Warrior – This site continues to impress me. The latest post “Brotherhood Insurance: A Pay for What You Get Policy” by Brother Brian Brush is a great post on the Brotherhood of the Fire Service and a must read!

IronFiremen.com – America’s Fire Captain Willie Wines Jr. outdoes everyone on his End of Year Review for 2011. Even though this post probably took three weeks for his little fingers to type, it is well worth a read. See what he has accomplished this past year!

Firefighter Nation – They have the story and the video of a huge fire at a former Illinois factory here.

Happy Medic – The Happy Medic is handing out his “Best of 2011″ awards. Check them out here!

IronsandLadders.com – This blog is great on content. Their latest post “Thru-The-Lock Time Trial (storefront doors)” is just one of many great training videos available.

Brotherhood Instructors – One of the leading privately owned and operated by firefighters instructing team offers “Forcing Doors in Zero Visibility – By Andrew Brassard” Check it out and continue your learning!

FireRescue1.com – They offer this story: Authorities probe fire attacks on 4 NYC sites “Blog post that may be linked to attacks: ‘Throw 10 Molotov cocktails into these mosques and burn them down’” Read it here

I love sushi and I love wasabi. I understand the use of wasabi and how it enhances the flavor with a little spice. I would never eat a spoonful of wasabi. I don’t think this next firefighter ever will…again! He might say this is a near death experience! Maybe this is the new cinnamon dragon challenge!

Crews battle flames and smoke at Westport Presbyterian Church

KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -

As dozens of onlookers packed Westport Road Thursday evening, all they could do is watch as Westport Presbyterian Church burned.

“We were out in Westport and my wife got a message on Facebook saying ‘Westport’s burning,’” Luke Rocha said.

Rocha, like many others, went down to see the flames shooting from the roof of the historic church that stood at Westport and 40th street for more than 100 years.

Video of the fire is here

Posted by on January 2, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Best of the Rest, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Dispatch, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Humor, News, Training, Training & Development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Rip Shears – Product Review

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I was sent some Rip Shears to do a product review. I received a preassembled set and one to add to shears we already had. I haven’t done many EMS product reviews, but I figured the guys on the medic truck might be able to use them.

I placed both sets on the medic unit and asked the guys to let me know how they perform. The were used occasionally, and I was told that they did speed up the process of removing clothes.

I wondered how they would be faster than just starting with scissors and then tearing the clothing. I finally got my answer on a call were we had to remove some clothing. I grabbed a pair of trauma shears with the Rip Shears attachment. I cut the bottom cuff of one leg of denim jeans on a patient, then ran up the leg with the Rip Shears. I have to admit that they cut smoother and in one action than ripping twice or more with my hands.

The Rip Shears are a simple attachment to trauma shears that we already carry. It makes sense. We aren’t adding ANOTHER pair of shears, we are making the ones we carry better. That is always one big question when I get products…Do we need it, do we have to add another tool, or are we making a tool better? In this case, we are making a tool better.

The blades can wear out, but they sent a replacement set of blades with them. I have not had to replace the blades yet.

Rip Shears Web Site – Youtube – Facebook

The Rip Shears cost around $15 and can be bought here. This would be a great gift for any Paramedic or EMT!

The Rip Shears hanging in the ceiling of our Medic Unit.

This model actually glows in the dark. This could save time if you are operating outside in the dark!

According to their site:

Rip Shears are the Worlds’ fastest trauma shears! Rip Shears enable emergency medical personnel to drastically reduce the critical time required to access and treat wound sites under multiple layers of clothing, equipment or body armor. Just snip and rip! Originally designed and tested by US Navy SEALs to perform in the harshest environments. The Ripper unit is 100% made in the USA and will bolt onto most sets of standard 7 1/4″ EMS trauma shears. Its user-replaceable blades, made form 440A surgical-grade stainless steel for durability and corrosion-resistance, receive a proprietary treatment to improve cutting ability and edge retention, making them last 5x longer than standard carbon steel blades. Available either as preassembled Rip Shears (scissors imported) or as a retrofit (Ripper unit only).

 

The Fire Critic offers product reviews. Please visit this page for details on how to get your product reviewed and what our policy is on reviews.

Posted by on December 4, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News, Product Reviews, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We’re Not Leaving: 9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal (Book Review)

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We’re Not Leaving
9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal

Author: Benjamin J. Luft, M.D.
Web site: 911RespondersRemember.org
Published: 2011
Publisher: Greenpoint Press
ISBN: 978-0-9832370-2-0
Pages: 302 + black and white pictures
Cost: $20.00 paperback

Purchase the book here: We’re Not Leaving: 9/11 Responders Tell Their Stories of Courage, Sacrifice, and Renewal

We’re Not Leaving is a collection of 33 stories/experiences penned by the responders themselves in the first person. The stories are raw and uncut, easily enabling the reader to view the experience from the eyes of the writer. The stories give the reader a first hand account of what they went through that day and the days, weeks, and months following September 11th. From story to story, events are captured from different views and places in and around Ground Zero.

From NYPD Officers to an EMS Director, a building inspector to a Paramedic, Firefighters to iron workers, welders to K9 handlers, a massage therapist to a Priest this book has a broad spectrum of responders. Some of which are used to responding to emergencies and others who felt the need to respond. They all found themselves in something bigger than they could imagine, yet each one of them was able to help.

The individual narratives in this book cover such a myriad of thoughts and feelings. They cover the initial thoughts when they heard or saw what was happening to political issues involved in the recovery, clean-up, and health issues of the responders. Some of these accounts are by people who you might not have considered a “responder” until you read what they were able to accomplish.

We’re Not Leaving is divided into 5 parts

  1. Caught in the Collapse – Accounts from Police, Fire, and EMS Professionals who responded to the terrorist attacks. Their accounts of what they thought, witnessed, felt, and experienced as the World Trade Center Towers collapsed. Many of them talk of survivors guilt.
  2. Looking for Survivors – Hope for finding survivors, looking and searching a midst the Pile, and the beginning of the “controlled chaos” that would become the management of such a large incident. Iron workers, welders, truck drivers, Firefighters, Police Officers, and so many others came together searching and hoping for survivors.
  3. Recovery, Recovery, Recovery – A look into how working at Ground Zero and other areas involved in the recovery effort effected those working there. For days, weeks, even months, people worked at the Pile and staging areas for what was removed from Ground Zero. They would continually see horrific sites, yet it became somehow became routine for some responders.
  4. The Responders Need Help – Many other people became responders too. They came from all over the Country to help. Part 4 offers accounts of these “responders” from their point of view and those of the people they were helping, the ones working the Pile.
  5. Renewal – A look into what has happened in the 10 years since 9/11. Advocates fight for responders health benefits, and others talk about issues facing responders since 9/11…some of which should have been taken care of up front.
The book is completed with an epilogue by the Widow of an NYPD Officer who died in 2007 of cancer from working at Ground Zero.

I found myself immersed in this book and hardly put it down until I finished it. I relived many paths taken that day through the narratives in this book. I have read numerous books on 9/11, each of them a little different than the others. This book has been one of the best. Raw accounts from people who might not have been able to share their story otherwise.

I recently finished reading We’re Not Leaving just prior to heading to New York City for the first time in 15-20 years. I had not been to Ground Zero since the terrorist attacks. This book helped me remember some of the landmarks, but more importantly I was able to realize where some of these stories occurred that I had just read a week prior. Wow, what a tribute to those who worked at Ground Zero, the lives lost that fateful day, and those who have perished since due to working the Pile.

My favorite excerpt:

“Would I do it again? I’d do it tomorrow. I may not be healthy enough, but it’s what I’m made of. When I spoke before Congress and Senate, and I’ve done it many times, I always ask them: What’s the one thing that almost every responder had in common? And they still to this day can’t answer the question.” source – page 102 by John a Union Ironworker. 

About the Author:

Benjamin J. Luft M.D.

Benjamin J. Luft, M.D., is the Edmund D. Pellegrino Professor of Medicine at SUNY Stony Brook and an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of Lyme disease and AIDS-related conditions. As a native New Yorker he was deeply impacted by the 9/11 attacks and was inspired to establish the Long Island World Trade Center Medical Monitoring and Treatment Program, which provides care to more than 6,000 disaster responders and has become an incubator for several important research and treatment programs that emphasize both mental and physical well-being. Dr. Luft has also established several important projects commemorating 9/11, including the “Remembering 9/11 Responders” oral history program.

 Related: Podcast: Interview with Benjamin Luft MD about We’re Not Leaving

The Fire Critic offers product reviews. Please visit this page for details on how to get your product reviewed and what our policy is on reviews.

Posted by on November 4, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, News, Product Reviews • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Secret List Isn’t Really a Secret At All

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The Secret List is an email list that began in 1998, but has roots even deeper than that. This article is a look into how The Secret List began and what it is all about.

The information below was gathered from a phone interview with Chief Billy Goldfeder and maybe a little bit of research online.

The Secret List or TSL technically began in 1998 as an email back and forth from Chief Billy Goldfeder and many of his friends and other fire service leaders.

However, prior to the email version of TSL, Chief Jack McElfish (currently in Sandy Springs, Georgia), used to mail out information in a manila envelope. The news was stuff he found or that others found and mailed to him. Whether it was written correspondence or copies of articles, the information was sent to several others and the list began growing. Word spread and peoples addresses were added to the list and McElfish made more copies and spent more money on stamps. For you young bucks, google what we used to do prior to email!

Fast forward to 1998, Billy Goldfeder bought his first computer and found the internet. Al Gore’s invention had grown and Goldfeder put it to work. The email version of TSL was born. TSL was the same as before, but now with typed information and links to stories on news sites around the World.

They original email list went to notable fire service leaders and others. The list grew as more found out about the list and asked to be on it.

The name “The Secret List” was originally just a gag among some veteran firefighters

That’s right, the name “The Secret List” originated from a little humor. Not the purpose, the name. People started asking who was on the list and Goldfeder would simply tell them it was a secret…A Secret List…THE Secret List. In order to keep everyone from asking who was on the list, Goldfeder soon began adding “The Secret List” in the subject line along with the subject of each email.

I asked Goldfeder how many people were on the list now and for each of their names and email addresses. Would you believe that he told me it was still a secret! Actually, he told me that it is several hundred thousand direct subscribers in addition to the over 160,000 who read it on Facebook.. This includes members from all over the World including the UK, Canada, Australia, France, the Middle East, and countries ending in “vakia” and “thania”. Many US Soldiers are also members.

You can “like” TSL on Facebook.com as well!

So what is The Secret List exactly?

TSL is based on firefighter survival. It is mission focused. It isn’t the latest news and politics, however some are included because some politics ARE about firefighter survival.

Ever since it’s inception, TSL has remained on point and focused on firefighter survival. Nothing more and nothing less.

Enter FirefighterCloseCalls.com

Maybe you have heard the name Gordon Graham (GordonGraham.Com). Maybe you haven’t. If you haven’t, you should immediately crawl out from under that rock in which you live.

Gordon Graham asked Goldfeder about creating a web site to share the information on TSL. The idea was simple, Goldfeder would produce the information and Graham would fund it.

FirefighterCloseCalls.com - The Home of The Secret List was born. The site is advertisement free and not for sale, although it is probably one of the most valuable fire service web sites in existence today. It is ad free because it is mission focused. Goldfeder and Graham do not want any business politics entering into the equation and want to retain the ability to say whatever they want whenever they want to say it. They make no money directly from the web site.

Read their mission statement here

FirefighterCloseCalls.com has grown since its inception.

The site is led by:

  • Retired Highway Patrol Commander Gordon Graham J.D.
  • Chief Billy Goldfeder, EFO
  • Chief Forest Reeder
  • Chief Brian P. Kazmierzak, EFO
  • Chief Rudy Horist
  • Retired Fire Marshal Ignatius Kapalczynski
  • Retired Chief Chris Shimer
  • Chief Patrick Kenny
  • Director Barry Furey

The site now includes various sections like:

  • The Secret List
  • Close Calls
  • EMS Close Calls
  • Personal Survival
  • Training and Safety
  • Weekly Fire Drills
  • Videos
  • Communications
  • Fire Reports
  • Firefighters Killed at War
  • Non-Traumatic Firefighter Deaths
  • Firefighter Staffing

They even have a “sites we like” section…Maybe I will make the list some day! (cough, cough). Although, Statter isn’t on their either. Just don’t tell Dave that. It would crush him!

The Secret List is sent out when there is important information to share. There is no frequency to their emails. The guys behind the list/site monitor the news 24/7 for information they think should be shared.

One final note is that Goldfeder said that TSL is about giving back to the fire service. You might think of it as paying it forward, Goldfeder says he is blessed with what the fire service has given him and he wants to be able to give back for others to learn. Additionally, he has been in the unique position of being directly involved with numerous LODD’s over the last nearly 40 years as a fireman, company officer, and Chief. From investigations, to working with Chiefs and Locals in preventing recurrences’s as well as losing firefighters he was personally very close to over the years, The site is not about “SAFETY-ING” out the fires service.

Goldfeder further stated:

“Some visitors to the site or readers of TSL think that we are trying to eliminate risk. That’s ridiculous. This is a risky job and some risks must absolutely be taken. Additionally, some LODD”s are not avoidable and those who perform those are as heroic as anyone can get. That’s not the ones we are talking about. We are talking about the unnecessary risks, the ones where firefighters and officers did things that resulted in nothing other than to get themselves hurt or killed…Actions that were predictable from the start and initial and on-going size up. In those cases, the lack of training, leadership, experience, etc. lead to the tragic but unnecessary deaths. Who determines what is an unnecessary LODD? Rad the reports and speak to those who were on scene. The LODD families can often provide some “shut up and listen” insight on how their loved one died and didn’t have to. Our focus is to simply help firefighters learn from some bad stuff, close calls as well as LODD’s – so they just don’t get repeated.”

Oh, and if you ever wondered what “WTF” stood for, I am assured that it means “Well Trained Firefighter”. When I asked him if he was ABSOLUTELY sure it didn’t mean “What The Fuck” his reply was “WTF are you trying to say Rhett?”

Keep up the great work Billy, Gordon, Forest, Brian, Rudy, Ignatius, Chris, and Pat!

If you would like to subscribe to The Secret List via email click here, otherwise click on over to FirefighterCloseCalls.com and check it out!

Posted by on November 3, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, In the Line of Duty, In-Depth Report, News, Technology & Communications, technology-communications-ems-topics, Training & Development, training-fire-rescue-topics • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

110 For 343… Finishing the Climb

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Today, Willie and I climbed another 110 stories for the 343 brothers who were murdered on September 11, 2001. I wrote about our first climb here that we did at Firehouse Expo in Baltimore. Every firefighter should commit to at least one 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb event.

I am sure that Willie will be posting something at IronFiremen.com soon enough.

This climb was different. It was in a different City, a different building, different layout, I had done one before, and it I had a different focus.

Willie and I climbed again. Why, you might ask? Simply because we could, we wanted to, and we owe it to our brothers.

Our team at FRI. Cheryl Horvath, Martha Ellis, Rhett Fleitz, Mark Nugent, Chris Riley, Willie Wines Jr., and Matt Tobia. Sorry for any spelling mistakes.

The climb in Atlanta was 10 times harder than the one in Baltimore. Baltimore was 22 stories 5 times. Atlanta was a straight 73 stories, and then another 45. I know it doesn’t add up to 110, but somehow they had it worked out to that. Somewhere in that equation it equalled 110 and I didn’t question it. The only break that we had climbing was the stop at the 73rd floor and the ride down the elevator to begin again. We had 4 of those breaks in Baltimore.

We ended up being in the first team to climb today. Willie and I climbed with Fire Chief Chris Riley, Chief Matt Tobia, Chief Martha Ellis, Cheryl Horvath, and Chief Mark Nugent. Sorry for any spelling or rank mistakes. Willie and I were the only ones in turnout gear in our group.

The second set of steps that we climbed to the 45th floor it was me and Willie. The others went on without us. They wanted to move quicker than we could move in our turnout gear. We accepted it. It gave Willie and I time to reflect without anyone within floors of us. Just us…climbing…for the 343. The quiet was only broke by the sound of Willie offering support in keeping me going. His encouragement which I desperately needed. It was tough. Willie wanted to make sure I was alright. Like any great Company Officer he was looking out for me. It was just us climbing, and we were able to pay our respects in our way without any distractions.

We are probably around the 90th floor right here. It was tough.

I could not have completed the climb without my brother and partner Willie. This climb was one of the most difficult things I have ever done in my life. As hard as I thought the climb was in Baltimore, this one was harder.

We completed the climb. We completed the climb for the 343 again like we did in Baltimore and we did it again as a personal accomplishment.

Just like in Baltimore, I hit every step on the way up.

As a matter of fact, I had to stop twice to go back a couple of steps to hit one I had skipped.

I have to thank the Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta Fire Department, the NFFF, and the IAFC for putting on the event and allowing me to pay my respects to the 343.

If you EVER have the chance to climb in a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb I CHALLENGE you to do it. Do it for yourself, do it for the brotherhood, do it for the 343.

FINISH THEIR CLIMB

Captain Willie Wines Jr.

After the climb with Ron Siarnicki and Dave Statter. Dave was excited to be around real firefighters! He has always wanted to be one, but apparently didn't have what it takes.

Posted by on August 25, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kilted to Kick Cancer

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Have you heard of Kilted to Kick Cancer yet? Don’t worry if you haven’t, it is fairly new to me as well. That is why I am writing about it. To spread the word.

Kilted to Kick Cancer is about awareness of prostate cancer. All you have to do is wear your kilt during the month of September. Kilted to Kick Cancer is not looking for your money. If you have money to give, they do have several places you might want to donate to on their site KiltedToKickCancer.org

More than likely, I will probably not be taking part in actually wearing a kilt because I do not own one. However, I plan on getting one soon to wear. I am certain you will be hearing more about Kilted to Kick Cancer in the future…Happy Medic and MotorCop wouldn’t have it any other way!

They will be at EMS World Expo in Vegas around the same time I am at Fire Rescue International in Atlanta.

Feel free to send in photos of you in your kilts. I will post them here…or you could just put them on the FC Facebook page.

Seriously, can you see me in a kilt?

More information:

Press Release:

INDUSTRY BLOGGERS, companies KILT UP TO KICK prostate CANCER

 

Kilted to Kick Cancer official artwork by Norm Quiros

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.

– Magnum Boots USA and Alt.Kilt have partnered up with Bloggers Motorcop and The Happy Medic to raise awareness for male-specific cancer during September, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The goal of the campaign, better known as Kilted to Kick Cancer, is to encourage men to take control of their health and get screened for cancer.

For the entire month of September, the Happy Medic (Justin Schorr) and Motorcop (Anonymous) will be wearing kilts everywhere they go when off-duty. With the help of Magnum Boots USA and Alt.Kilt, Motorcop and the Happy Medic are taking the topic by storm through the likes of social media, particularly Twitter and Facebook. Since both are first responders by trade, it only made sense to kick off the campaign at EMS World Expo in Las Vegas at the end of August.

“When a man walks into a room wearing a kilt, everyone has the same question… what’s he got on under there?” said Motorcop, a law enforcement officer who blogs anonymously at motorcopblog.com. “Our aim for September is to bring as much awareness to male-specific risk factors for prostate and testicular cancer as we can. What better way to get the attention of others than through kilts?”

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in America, affecting 1 in 6 men. The older a man is, the more likely he will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. A man with a father or brother who developed prostate cancer is twice as likely to develop the disease.

“For men in the U.S., the risk of developing prostate cancer is 17%,” said Justin Schorr, known to most online as the blogger behind TheHappyMedic.com. “Motorcop and I, along with Magnum and Alt.Kilt, want to do our part to help reduce any stigma and fears behind this disease – and more importantly, the screening process. If that means dressing up in our Magnum duty boots and a kilt for the entire month of September to get people talking, then we’re all for it.”

Other risk factors for aggressive prostate cancer include tall height, lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle, high calcium intake, African-American race and family history. For more info on Prostate Cancer, visit www.pcf.org.

“Our goal is to talk to as many men as we can and get them to get their butt – pun intended – to the doctor,” said Schorr, who encourages others to don their kilts this September and post photos online on the Kilted to Kick Cancer Facebook page, or on Twitter using the hashtag #KiltedtoKickCancer. “If you’ve got a Y-chromosome, and you’re 40 years or older, get yourself to a doctor and get an exam. It could save your life.”

About KILTED TO KICK CANCER

In light of Prostate Cancer Awareness Month this September, two bloggers, Motorcop (Anonymous) and The Happy Medic (Justin Schorr), are kilting up to kick cancer. For the entire month of September, the two bloggers will be wearing kilts from Alt.Kilt (whenever off duty) to raise awareness of deadly, male-specific cancers often overlooked by the public. The goal? Encourage men to take control of their health and get checked for cancer. For more details on this cause, visit www.kiltedtokickcancer.org. To learn more about the risks and symptoms of prostate cancer, please visit www.pcf.org.

About Magnum

Since 1982, Magnum has been providing high-performance tactical and service product with credibility second to none. It is the mission of Magnum to be the best in class by delivering unsurpassed product designed for its end user. Distributed in over 100 countries, Magnum attacks the marketplace with unmatched comfort, technology and value in uniform footwear and apparel used by law enforcement, military, fire/rescue, emergency medical, and service agencies around the world. For more information, visit us online: www.magnumboots.com.

ABOUT ALT.KILT

Since its conception in early 2006, Alt.Kilt has made a point of being personal. Our purpose is to provide functional, stylish and well-made kilts that are individually designed and custom built for each client. Each kilt we sell is made one at a time, from the pre-washing of the fabric to hand sewing the buttons. From our humble beginnings in Madison, WI, we have spent time and effort to create a handsome product that fulfills the needs and wants of our worldwide customer base. For more information, please visit us at http://www.altkilt.com.

Posted by on August 21, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News, Social Media • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gearing up for the Firehouse Expo 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

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Where have I been? Busy just like everyone else…

Actually, I am working on a huge project with a business partner of mine…more on that in the future!

I am gearing up for Firehouse Expo 2011

Firefighter Netcast will once again be pitching our tent in the FireGeezer/Statter911 booth at Firehouse Expo.

The booth number is 743 and FireGeezer has details on how to get free passes to the Exhibit hall! (click here for the info )

I will be travelling up with Willie Wines Jr. and another firefighter from our area Captain Kevin Totten. To be quite honest, it is going to be kinda humerous. Willie and Kevin will be riding to Richmond with me and my 2 children. I am dropping the kiddos off at the inlaws and then we are either staying the night in Richmond or DC…not sure which town we are going to tear up yet.

This photo is from the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb web site. It did not credit a photographer.

So the Firefighter Netcast thing will be fun as always…but the real event is…

The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Firehouse Expo

Find all the information you need for the events here

The direct link for the Firehouse Expo stair climb is here

The event will be held at the Hilton on Thursday July 21, 2011 from 2-4pm.

From what I hear, there are only 100 participants signed up for it to date. Trust me, if Willie and I can do it anyone can. That being said, we aren’t sure if Willie and I can do it yet. This is our first one. They are also setting one up for Fire Rescue International and Willie and I will be there. We are contimplating doing that one and another on September 11th. There is one in Richmond, VA on September 11th and there is rumor of one in Roanoke that same date. We should be at one of them. 

If you think you will be walking too slow for everyone else…WE NEED YOU. I mean WILLIE AND I NEED YOU. That way, we can blame you and you can blame us for dragging ass up those stairs. But in the end we can all say we did it. We did it to “NEVER FORGET”.

Afterwards Willie and I will be at a Bar!

What more do you need? Willie was damn near on his death bed the other week (with a cold) and he is doing it. He still complains every time I talk to him about his little bout with a runny nose. Hell, even the Buckaroo told him to suck it up and grow a set!

It has been a while since we travelled together and we are adding Kevin and another friend of mine to the mix. Hell soon we will be travelling in packs!

I will leave you with a video I shot in Downtown Roanoke the other week when I was on a date with my beautiful bride! At the drums is Lt. Mike Ellston from Salem Fire-Rescue Department (the same dept. as Totten)…He is banging the drums with a contingent of the Virginia Highlands Pipes and Drums at Flannery’s Irish Pub downtown.

Ellston is at least part (I think) of the brain behind  the 2 House blog…you can read it here!

Posted by on June 30, 2011 • Filed under: Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Station Closures, Budget Cuts, Staffing Cuts…and the Race Card

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Firefighters have been saying it for years…you cannot cut staffing, close stations, and slash the budgets in public safety and think that nothing will change.

But no one seems to be listening.

Who cares? Other than us and the ones affected the answer is not to many other people.

We are out of sight and out of mind.

But who really gets shafted? I wrote about one such situation in Cape Coral, Florida surrounding brownouts here.

Patrick Mahoney (an author on FireGeezer.com) writes:

No matter what it is, when it comes to fire and police layoffs it’s nothing short of depriving the poor of what may be their only safety net in order to line the pockets of the rich and powerful. Departments in these situations need to get with their minority communities and explain the consequences (hint: nearly any fire department facing layoffs is in this situation because this sort of reverse Robin Hooding is rampant). There are a ton of civil rights groups, ministers’ alliances, and neighborhood associations that are more than happy to apply pressure to the cretins in local government. Read the entire article here

He is not alone…

Alan W. Silberberg writes:

So we have reached a critical decision point in the United States. Are we going to sacrifice our quality of life, our public safety over politically charged budget cutting, or are we going to create ways to fix the budget problems, and keep our lives safe? Read teh entire article here

Silberberg’s article is a well written piece meant to get people to their feet. To educate them that cuts to public safety can effect anyone and everyone. That public safety cuts are not the answer and that cuts MUST be made elsewhere!

Mahnoney’s article is meant to get firefighters to stand up. To educate the poorer communities that public safety cuts show that their governement does not care about them if they are willing to cut their services.

Both articles are worth the read….both are thought provoking…and both should get people thinking!

Posted by on May 17, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It Happened Again…Brownouts Blamed in Delayed Response during Medical Emergency

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It took around 2 years for the Cape Coral Fire Department (Florida) to learn a very costly lesson about brownouts.

Last week, the brownouts are being blamed for a delayed response in a fatal heart attack call. The closest rescue truck was out of service due to a brownout.

Firefighters don’t need to look any further for proof that brownouts don’t make sense and are unfair and unsafe for citizens.

As a firefighter, I really want to say “We told you so”, but that isn’t professional. Indeed, firefighters have been pointing to brownouts being unfair and unsafe for citizens, but in this case it might have cost someone their life.

At this point, the family is not making an issue of the response time according to the report. However, we all know how that can change when lawyers get involved.

Trucks, even entire fire stations in some fire districts, go unmanned for a shift when there are not enough people on duty to cover them. These brownouts save money by eliminating the need to pay overtime to fully staff the service. source news-press.com

I must say that I hope Cape Coral has learned their lesson and that they don’t have to settle with a huge settlement with the family.

I also hope that other localities learn from Cape Coral’s lesson and they decide to brownout or cut other things before the fire department.

I sincerely commend Cape Coral’s Mayor John Sullivan for correcting this issue!

You can read the entire report here.

Visit the Cape Coral Fire Department online here

Hat tip to The Secret List for this article

Posted by on May 13, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, News • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

One Last Unfortunate Swift Kick in the Nuts for September 11th First Responders

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Mike “The FossilMedic” Ward wrote about this topic earlier today on FireGeezer.com. I watched the video and HAD to repost it.

You just have to love Jon Stewart! I know that most cast him off as a comedic news parody, but really it isn’t far fetched at all. The use of humor makes some of his coverage easier to swallow. He typically points out the common sense parts of the news and adds a realistic point of view that we can all relate with!

This latest news segment is about how legislators have imposed a caveat to 9/11 first responders who want to make health care claims via the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. These individuals will have to be cross-referenced on the terrorist watch list. Stewart makes some interesting comparisons to others who do not have to be cross-referenced on this list!

Once again…thanks Jon! At least someone cares!

Posted by on April 29, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Close Call: Air Ambulance Clips Electrical Lines on Take Off

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Here is a close call out of British Columbia involving an Air Ambulance that is on scene to pick up a patient. At 2:18 the helicopter takes off and clips power lines. Luckily no one was hurt.

Posted by on April 8, 2011 • Filed under: Close Call, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

The State of the Fire Service – Pension Attacks and Union Busting

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As involved in politics as I once was, I was able to learn a lot…Much of what I learned is that most of our battles are uphill and can only be won with sheer numbers of lobbyists (individual informed firefighters), time, and determination.

More recently that thought process has changed. We need help. We need a lot of help! We are fighting legislation that will set us back more than 50 years. We stand to lose many benefits and rights that some of us have been cozy with for a long time. These are rights that we signed on with. When I got hired, part of the reasoning for taking the job was the light at the end of the tunnel…my pension. Even at the ripe old age of 22, I had my sights set on the reward for a career and lifestyle in public service. My pension, to me, was payment for a dangerous job and less then glamorous pay. I am now half way through my career and beginning to think that in the very near future I might be fighting for that pension locally just as so many firefighters are fighting for elsewhere.

Collective bargaining is a little different for me. That was more of a dream working in Virginia where we do not and have never had collective bargaining. Up until last year, I thought that collective bargaining was within reach. I didn’t view it as a way to fatten my pay and benefits…I actually saw it as a means to regain some of the benefits that were stripped from me….benefits that I had and enjoyed when I got hired. They have taken from me and my family and I wanted it back.

In addition, collective bargaining might have helped with getting a raise in the past 4 years. Four years without a raise…yet groceries, health care, gas, and everything else continues to rise in price. When I say “no raise”…I mean nothing at all. Not even a cost of living raise.

But my issues are small in comparison to others…

Most firefighters rely on other firefighters to fight their battles. Whether it is the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), State Professional Firefighter Associations, Local IAFF Chapters, or even the National Volunteer Fire Council…these organizations are run by firefighters. Whether on staff or voluntarily working for the good of the organization they are only as strong as their membership. Not all of us participate for one reason or another…unfortunately.

Recently, we have had others assisting in lobbying for us. Case and point – Jon Stewart on The Daily Show and MSNBC’s Ed Schultz. Firefighters also have many legislators fighting in their corner. Unfortunately, many of them are outnumbered by the opposition.

So many firefighters have been fighting for collective bargaining for years…and now that fight has swayed to keep collective bargaining for the ones who already have it.

Now our pensions are under attack. Our pensions, and our salaries are being scapegoated as the reason for budget deficits. We are the problem according to some.

Wisconsin Firefighters were spared from a recent Union busting bill even though they were there to fight against it. I can imagine why…we all know what is next…including public safety to save even more money and put public safety at risk. Ohio firefighters are still fighting the passage of Senate Bill 5 which strips public workers of collective bargaining rights…including police officers and firefighters. (read more) Senate Bill 5 is here

Bill Maher had a great debate on March 9th with Representative Keith Ellison (D-MN), Paul Begala, Former Representative Tom Davis (R-VA), Dana Loesch, Bill T. Jones. This is a must watch for every firefighter! It gives great insight into what the two sides of the aisle think about pensions and collective bargaining.

PBS recently offered a story including video titled “Are public employee unions to blame for states’ budget woes?“.
“In all, 13 governors have proposed layoffs, or cuts in pay or benefits for state employees.  And it’s not just Republicans — Democratic governors, like Jerry Brown in California and Andrew Cuomo in New York have also put state workers on notice.”

And…we are are worst enemies. We are counter-productive. We have some who make us all look bad. Damage control is not easy when any and EVERY bad story related to a firefighter makes it in the evening news or in print.

Luckily for the attackers, they don’t have to look far to point the finger. Look at Clark County, Nevada. Some firefighters are being accused of sick leave abuse. There is no doubt in my mind that some of the firefighters are guilty from the reports. Is it as widespread as the media leads you to believe…probably not. But this issue now has people looking at firefighter salaries under a microscope. Who wins? It sure as hell won’t be the Clark County firefighters. They are experiencing the wrath of bad publicity and are getting the cold shoulder from the very people they are sworn to protect. (story here)

Where do these bad apples come from? You know, the ones who make the evening news and make us look bad. Maybe it is from the lowered expectations in hiring procedures. Look at a recent story by the Washington Post on the hiring practices of FDNY titled Firehouse Flunkies.

Related: The Dayton Police Department is lowering their expectations as well (story here).

Unfortunately, hiring practices like the ones linked to above are out of firefighters hands….we will reap the benefits though (sarcasm).

And yet with all of this we all continue to do our jobs…sometimes in terrible conditions. Check out a recent update on plans to fix a worn out firehouse in Cleveland here. I didn’t even bring up brownouts, furloughs, pay cuts, layoffs, and many other issues affecting us today.

The International Association of Firefighters are currently in Washington D.C. for their Annual Legislative Conference. There is no doubt in my mind that these Pension attacks and Union busting will be on the forefront of the itinerary.

The IAFF has created a UStream channel for the next couple of days where you can watch the events. Check out IAFFFightsBack.com.

And if you are wondering what you the firefighter can do to help…simple…get involved!

Posted by on March 14, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Prevention & Education, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Firefighter Suicides…Prevention and Counseling

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Updated: Here is a great article from BackwardsandStupid.com on Depression in his own words and experiences. Check out how he has learned and copes with depression.

Recently, 4 firefighter suicides in the Phoenix Fire Department have raised eyebrows. The need for counseling and prevention are real and have been identified.

Firefighter Netcast recently had Jeff Dill on a show about a Battalion Chief from suburban Chicago, who holds a Masters Degree in Counseling.  Chief Dill has established CSSF, Counseling Services for Firefighters, which offers behavioral health support to firefighters; trains senior fire officers, and educates clinicians on the benefits of understanding the life and emotions- of firefighters. Visit the CSSF here - CSFF Web Page and on Facebook.

This is a topic that needs to be discussed. Listen to the podcast and watch the video. You never know, someone you know might be exhibiting signs and be in need of help right now.

You can listen to the podcast from Firefighter Netcast right here.

If you are in need of immediate assistance, the contact information for the CSSF is here.

Below is a video about the steps that the Phoenix FD has taken to assist firefighters in preventing suicide.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Posted by on March 7, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Prevention & Education, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Must Read, NetCast, News, Podcast, Training & Development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

3 Banger in VA, Pension Attacks, Albuquerque Helmet Stickers, Austin Applicant Issues, and More

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In case you are just tuning in….it has been a busy day here at FireCritic.com!

photo by Wells P. Wilson

3 Alarm Fire in Alexandria, Virginia including Videos and photos
VAFireNews.com (sister site to FireCritic.com) has early video and photos from a 3 alarm fire in Alexandria, Virginia today.

Hosed…This Satirical Show on Volunteer Firefighters is Hilarious!
Check out this hilarious look at volunteer firefighters! Is this good or bad for the volunteer fire service?

Major Fire at Fertilizer Plant in South Carolina
A big fire in South Carolina last night

The IAFF and MSNBC’s ED Schultz Take a Stand Against Attacks on Firefighters Pensions
Hopefully there will be plenty more to this debate. We won’t go down without a fight!

Albuquerque Firefighters Helmet Stickers Causing Controversy
Firefighters have a unique helmet sticker that they claim is not derogatory at all.

Firefighter Applicants Disqualified After Inability to Follow Directions
Should they have been turned away? Who is at fault?

And…

FireCritic.com is the place for Fire Service Product Reviews! The latest review is of the book Capitol City Fireman by Jake Rixner. Read all about Capitol City Fireman and how to order it here!

Some of the reviews in the works are: Boots: Lion Marshall 14″ fire boots and the Book: The Cavalry is coming by John Broyles. I am also waiting to hear back from two more products and awaiting my brand new Black Diamond X2 fire boots to review. Review the terms for product reviews by The Fire Critic here. Check out all of the product reviews here.

Plus…

Civil service commission upholds firefighter firing – This same thing happened in my department. He should have been fired. We don’t welcome thieves.

FireMom offers her thoughts on Ohio Senate Bill 5 - Quoted: “As a fire family, I staunchly oppose Senate Bill 5 (SB5; bill text here) which aims to remove collective bargaining from unions. Every time I think of this bill, sponsored by Senator Shannon Jones (R – Springboro), I get this mix of angry anxiety in the pit of my stomach. It’s not just the security of my husband’s job and thus our livelihood on the line. It’s the safety of the citizens of Ohio.”

House Fire in Westerly, Rhode Island

Posted by on February 15, 2011 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Prevention & Education, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Funding & Staffing, Major Incidents, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

DO NOT Watch This Video of a Medic Complaining about his Partner!

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Don’t do it! Don’t watch this video of a medic complaining about his partner. I made it to the 2:46 mark and my ears started bleeding. Is this really what Medics talk about when they get around each other?

Posted by on February 8, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Firefighting News – Street Racing, Firehouse Traditions, Councilwoman’s House Burns, and more…

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LODD – FAO Richard Paul: Kansas City, Missouri FAO Richard Paul died Friday morning during his annual physical. While this has not been ruled an LODD yet (sometimes it takes time), it did occur in the line of duty. Read more here.

Police take control of Sea Isle City Volunteer Fire Department amid infighting and rumors of threats to ignore fire calls – SEA ISLE CITY – Police Chief Thomas D’Intino assumed control of the city’s volunteer fire department this week and launched an investigation into rumors that some firefighters threatened to ignore fires over a personnel dispute. Mayor Leonard Desiderio signed an executive order appointing the chief to oversee and investigate the all-volunteer department, which has served the island since 1896. At Desiderio’s request, City Council convened an emergency meeting Friday to get an explanation for his decision. Two senior members of the fire company resigned Monday. Desiderio said he will not accept their resignations until the investigation is complete in hopes they will reconsider.

Firefighter Charged In Triple Fatal Street Racing Crash – McDowell County, NC Firefighter Jeremy Bolick (driver) and his passenger firefighter Tommy Wright were both killed while street racing firefighter Tyler Jordan Vance. The street race turned deadly when Bolick’s mustang lost control and struck a vehicle driven by Cynthia White Bassett. Cynthia’s husband, her passenger, died 10 days later in the hospital.Tyler Jordan Vance was charged with one count of spontaneous speed competition and one count of misdemeanor death by vehicle. Read more here

The Fire Service Warrior

The Fire Service Warrior posted an article titled “Does it have pictures?” I think it is about firefighters looking at pictures and not reading the articles. I am not sure though, it didn’t have any pictures… The Fire Service warrior has been around since 2008. Check it out here.

Update on Toronto Mayday Firefighter Rescues – Toronto firefighters reenact the rescues they made of their brother firefighters when a MAYDAY was called at a recent fire. Statter covered the incident here.

Wilkes-Barre Firefighters Win Arbitration Wilkes-Barre firefighters are in the money! Wilkes-Barre city officials Thursday night released the payoffs made to 85 city firefighters from a $1 million arbitration award. Read the story here: Wilkes-Barre releases firefighter payoff numbers

COLLEEN WHITE/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Firefighters from Closter and surrounding battled a two-alarm fire on Jan. 6 at the home of Councilwoman Victoria Amitai. The fire was extinguished within an hour, said fire officials who were on the scene.

Maybe this Council Member will appreciate her firefighters. While I don’t have any direct evidence that Closter Councilwoman Victoria Amitai has any history of not appreciating her firefighters, she has reason to appreciate them now. A two alarm fire at her house at 449 Ruckman road burned her husband and sent him to the hospital. Read more here

Brent Firefighters were busy with 3 fires in one day. Well to be honest, it was 2 fires and one that wasn’t put out well enough the first time. The first fire was a grass fire due to a lightening strike. Hell, the story was kinda hard to read…check it out here

Firehouse Traditions – Saturday Night is Pizza Night! I have heard many firehouse traditions. Some go by firehouse, others are department traditions. The Aurora firefighters have held onto a tradition that makes many pale in comparison. Every Saturday night, every station in Aurora serves up pizza. Seldom does the menu change on Saturday’s for their 200 firefighters. The idea was born almost a half-century ago, shortly after Bob Watkins joined the department. In addition to his firefighter gig — he served for 25 years and retired nearly 25 years ago — Watkins had a part-time job managing Tony’s Pizza in Aurora. He introduced pizza night at the city’s downtown station. Then he expanded. Read more

Bonus video of St. Pete Firefighters battling a house fire below

Posted by on January 8, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

LODD – Kansas City, MO Firefighter Dies During Annual Physical

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Kansas City, Missouri Firefighter Richard Paul died this morning after having his annual physical exam. Paul, a fire apparatus driver (FAO), died of a medical emergency after being transported to the hospital.

Paul , 54, has been a firefighter since 1977 and was promoted to driver in 2006. He was assigned to station 43 located at 12900 East 350 Highway.

He was married and had two children.

This is the second LODD of 2011.

Firefighter Richard Paul

FC Note: as of this posting, Richard Paul’s death has not been ruled a LODD by the USFA

More coverage:

Posted by on January 7, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , ,

Firefighter Struck at Scene. Move Over Law Cited, it began January 1st

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A Spring Brook (NY) firefighter is recovering in the hospital after being struck by a car while directing traffic at a vehicle collision. The incident happened in Elma, New York. The Ambrose-Searles Move Over Law just began on January 1st.

WIVB.com:

The 21-year-old male driver of the car is facing several charges, including failing to move over. That charge is new as of January 1st because of the Ambrose-Searles Move Over Law. It requires drivers to move over and slow down while approaching an accident scene. You can learn more about the new law here.

“Even if you can’t move over, you’re supposed to slow down to a reasonable speed. This is what happens when you don’t,” said Chief Dzubella.

Stevenson is currently at ECMC with hip, leg and possible internal injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery, but firefighters say he is very lucky. The name of the driver has not been released.

via Driver who hit firefighter facing several charges | WIVB.com.

Posted by on January 5, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , ,

LODD – Shapleigh VFD Firefighter David Remington Killed in Crash

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Firefighter David Remington was killed at 10 pm Monday night on the way to a call.

David, a firefighter with the  Shapleigh Fire Department in Maine, was in his personal vehicle a pickup truck (unclear if it was POV or Dept. vehicle) responding for an emergency. The 58 year old firefighter is listed as N28 and a driver/operator on the departments roster.

The wreck occurred  on Shapleigh Corner Road about a mile from Route 109. David was thrown from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.

Town of Shapleigh Fire Department web site

News Coverage:

FC Note: At the time of this posting, Firefighter Reminton’s death has not been ruled an LODD by the USFA. If it is deemed to be a LODD by the USFA, it will be the first for the year.

Posted by on January 4, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Obama signs 9/11 health bill aka James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act into Law

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President Barack Obama signs the 9/11 health care bill into law Sunday at his vacation rental in Kailua, Hawaii.

Previous Coverage of the 9/11 Health Care Bill here, here, and here.

CNN.com:

Washington (CNN) — President Barack Obama signed the 9/11 health bill into law in Hawaii on Sunday, White House spokesman Bill Burton said.

Obama signed the bill during his Hawaiian vacation, with no signing ceremony held. In a statement issued later, the president said he was “honored” to sign the bill, which pays for health care for responders believed to have been sickened by pollution at the ruins of the World Trade Center in New York.

“We will never forget the selfless courage demonstrated by the firefighters, police officers, and first responders who risked their lives to save others,” Obama said. “I believe this is a critical step for those who continue to bear the physical scars of those attacks.”

The bill made a long journey in order to get signed. A printed copy of the bill flew with a White House staffer from Washington to the Hawaiian island of Oahu, so Obama could sign it from his vacation rental in Kailua.

via Obama signs 9/11 health bill – CNN.com.

Posted by on January 3, 2011 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fires, Blizzards, Rescues, and Maydays: Middle of the Week Review…Are you keeping up?

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I’ll admit that I have slow days. However, I post when I am able to. I took the 24th and 25th off, but quickly caught up!

You should be keeping up with me at least…yes I am speaking to both of you (my readers)!

There are some other links in there from some other sites as well!

    Bonus Video of FDNY During the Blizzard

    Posted by on December 28, 2010 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Prevention & Education, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, Major Incidents, News, Rescues, training-fire-rescue-topics, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    LODD Update: Chicago Firefighters Corey Ankum and Edward Stringer

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    Firefighter/EMT Corey Ankum: Truck 34. 34 years old, 16 months on the job and previously a police officer. Husband and father of two children.

    Firefighter Edward Stringer: Engine 63. 47 years old, 12 years on the job.

    Follow the links here and here to coverage on Fire Critic today including Video, Audio, News, and Photos of the Incident

    Fallen Chicago firefighters Corey Ankum and Edward Stringer (photo source)

    News Conference on the loss of two Chicago Firefighters

    Firefighter Edward Stringer

    Firefighter Corey Ankum

    News Coverage

    Posted by on December 22, 2010 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, Major Incidents, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    Coverage of the Chicago LODD’s and 9/11 Health Bill

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    Today has been busy…and very bitter sweet.

    Today is very bitter…

    Chicago Firefighters are joined by firefighters everywhere as we mourn the death of Firefighters Corey Ankum and Edward Stringer. These deaths occur on the anniversary of two other very well known LODD fires.

    Follow the links here and here to coverage on Fire Critic today

    Chicago fire personnel evacuate an injured firefighter at a extra-alarm fire at 1700 East 75th Street. (E. Jason Wambsgans/ Chicago Tribune)

    Today is also very sweet…

    Many firefighters are rejoicing with the passing of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act

    Follow this link to the coverage of the Senate passing the bill today

    Photo from CNN.com. In the years since 9/11, respiratory and mental health issues have been a concern for firefighters and other first responders.

    Posted by on December 22, 2010 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Funding & Staffing, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, Major Incidents, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

    Update: James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act Passes Senate

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    Today, the Senate passed the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act passed through Senate. The measure had previously passed through the House.

    There is speculation on why it passed through the Senate after having been shot down just days ago. Some people think it might have something to do with The Daily Show’s Jon Stewart’s hilarious political jabs at the Republicans who filibustered the bill.

    It really makes you wonder what the catalyst was. After all, the bill was rewritten removing over $2 billion in cost. Republicans have caught a bad rap on the whole deal…maybe they realized how damaging the bad press could get.

    Then again, maybe the nay sayers just did the right thing…we may never know.

    Previous coverage of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act on FireCritic.com here and here. Rambling Chief also offers coverage here.

    Photo from CNN.com. In the years since 9/11, respiratory and mental health issues have been a concern for firefighters and other first responders.

    CNN.com:

    Washington (CNN) — The Senate on Wednesday passed a compromise version of a bill to provide free medical treatment and compensation to first responders of the September 11 terrorist attack.

    The bill passed on a voice vote on what is expected to be the final day of the lame-duck session of Congress. It now goes to the House, which also is expected to approve it and send it to President Barack Obama to be signed into law.

    Jubilant Democrats hailed the last-minute approval as a triumph for firefighters, police officers and other emergency personnel who put themselves in harm’s way to help others in the 2001 terrorist attack.

    Related Video:

    Rep. King: Coburn Wrong on 9/11 Health Bill

    GOP lawmaker responds to senator’s opposition to legislation

    Previous Coverage on The Daily Show Below

    Daily Show: Republicans Block 9/11 Health Care Bill

    Republican senators refuse to vote on the 9/11 health care bill until wealthy Americans receive an engraved notification that their taxes won’t go up.

    The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c
    Republicans Block 9/11 Health Care Bill
    www.thedailyshow.com
    Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog</a> The Daily Show on Facebook

    Daily Show: Lame-as-F@#k Congress

    Here’s a tribute to a few Republican senators who find comfort and advantage in invoking the heroes of 9/11 but refuse to give them health care.

    The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c
    Lame-as-F@#k Congress
    www.thedailyshow.com
    Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog</a> The Daily Show on Facebook

    Daily Show: 9/11 First Responders React to the Senate Filibuster

    9/11 first responders express their thoughts on Mitch McConnell’s tearful sendoff of a retiring friend and Jon Kyl’s reasons for why the Senate can’t work after Christmas.

    The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c
    9/11 First Responders React to the Senate Filibuster
    www.thedailyshow.com
    Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog</a> The Daily Show on Facebook

    Daily Show: Worst Responders

    Senate Republicans filibuster the Zadroga bill but pass tax cuts for the wealthy, which is great news for firefighters who make over $200,000 a year.

    The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c
    Worst Responders
    www.thedailyshow.com
    Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog</a> The Daily Show on Facebook
    Posted by on December 22, 2010 • Filed under: EMS Health & Safety, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, In the Line of Duty, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,