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The 2012 Itinerary for FDIC. Indianapolis here we come!

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This is our itinerary for FDIC 2012. We will be up and about for most of the time. Willie and I don’t sleep much during FDIC. We are up early and in bed late.

I will update the itinerary as we add to our events!

Willie and I are driving up on Wednesday.

Willie and I WILL be climbing for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb if there are not 343 signed up. Willie and I have climbed 4 times before and actually made a pact that we had accomplished what we wanted to and we would not climb again. We have had so many people ask us to climb with them that we decided if there are not 343 signed up, we would climb. Otherwise we will be there to support our brothers climbing!

I AM registered to run in the 5k…see if you can keep up I can keep up!

This year, I will not be making it to any of the excellent classes at FDIC. There are plenty of great classes being put on by great instructors. Many of my friends are teaching as well. There are two major components to FDIC, the classes and the exhibit hall. I will be all over the exhibit hall. That is more my niche. I leave the teaching of strategy and tactics to other firefighters who have dedicated themselves to learning and teaching.

Catch up with us at the MN8 FoxFire Booth 3026

The Official Fire Critic Kilt by Alt Kilt!

Special thanks to Alt Kilt who has designed a kilt for me to wear at FDIC! Check them out on Facebook and at their web site!

Here are some classes you might want to check out:

  • Ben Peetz – Wednesday 10:30am room 103-104  ”Combustible Dust Fires and Explosions”
  • Paul Hasenmeier - Thursday 3:30pm room 123-124 “School Bus Extrication” See the trailer video below
  • Stefan Svensson – Friday 10:30am  room 123-124 “Safety in the Fire Service: The Swedish Perspective”. Stefan tells me that this one won’t be nearly as controversial as the one at FRI.
  • Lt. John Shafer – Friday 10:30am room 109-110 “Modern Roof Hazards” See the trailer video below

As for what Willie and I will be getting our hands into the events are below. We are traveling with Mike Elston from Salem and Andrew Catron from Kingsport. We will be meeting up with many others including Jeff Harkey from FireNews.net and Daily911Deals.com.

Much of our time during the Expo will be spent at the MN8 Foxfire booth with Zach Green (owner). Check us out at the MN8 booth #3026!

Cutters Edge has teamed up with MN8 FoxFire to bring you a firefighting chain saw that illuminates. They will have it at their booth #3447 at FDIC!

Kovenex is booth #410. Willie and I are picking up gloves there for a product review. We are looking forward to it!

Firefighter Nation/Fire Rescue Magazine booth is #3173

FireRescue1′s booth is #132

Willie and I will have some challenge coins, brotherhood chips, and patches to give out as well! The challenge coins and patches are fresh off the press from NM- Coin. Check out their web site and see them on Facebook too! You can purchase our merchandise direct from NM Coin here

NM Coin on Facebook - Web Site

The new challenge coin from NM Coin

Of course, we will see what the ladies are doing at the Black Diamond Boots Booth #2401 and the Black Helmet Booth #13106

You will find the floorplan to the FDIC exhibit hall here 

Itinerary

Fire Critic/IronFiremen patch from NM Coin

Wednesday April 18

  • FireRescue1.com meetup at Claddagh’s Irish Pub 6-10pm
  • FOOLS Bash 5 – 10pm at the Corner of Jackson St. & Meridian St . Behind Hooters (Facebook Event Page)

Thursday April 19

  • Catch up with us at the MN8 Booth #3026
  • 5th Annual Courage and Valor Run at White River State Park (register here)
  • Stop, Drop, Rock and Roll at the Indiana Roof Ballroom (140 West Washington Street)

Friday April 20

  • Catch up with us at the MN8 Booth #3026
  • Adam Ferrara 1pm at the special events stage
  • FDIC 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb 12:30 – 3:30pm at Lucas Oil Stadium (register here)
  • Battle of the Bands at Lucas Oil Stadium (link)
  • Indianapolis IAFF Party

Saturday April 21

Open as of right now, but we will fill it in I am sure!

Pipes and Drums Schedule

Here what I got for the FDIC Pipe and Drum schedule if you want to post it for people:

Wednesday..April 18th….
(1) FDIC Opening Ceremony… Indiana Convention Center
(2) FOOL’s BASH….. South Meridian Street , same as other years…Between Hooter’s and Ike and Jones’s ..Big Tent..and
Stage.

Thursday ..April 19th….
(1) We will have a Second FDIC Opening Ceremony on Thursday Morning at the same place and time as Wednesday’s Morning.
(2) Lucas Oil Stadium for the opening of that Bldg at 12:00 Noon….
(3) Back to the Convention Center and play through the whole convention center area’s
and that opening up all of the halls.
(4 ) Fallen Firefighters Foundation Event ( Stop-Drop- Rock and Roll Event ) at the Indiana Roof
Ballroom .. time is 6:45-11:00 PM .

Friday ..April 20..
(1)Play at then Stair Climb at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(2) Annual Indianapolis Firefighters – Local 416 Union Open House Party.


Posted by on April 15, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Fires, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Watch Close, Raccoon jumps out of chimney while house is on fire

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Or was it just a squirrel…ha.

Just watch the video…you can’t make this stuff up!

According to the video, this was a controlled burn and the raccoon got away safe.

The last thing we need is to have to check chimneys for animals as part of 1403 compliance!

Posted by on April 15, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Humor, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Video: 17 FDNY Firefighters Injured in Fast Moving 4 Alarm Fire in the Bronx. 200 FF’s on Scene

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Seventeen Firefighters were injured in a fast moving fire in the Bronx today. The fire swept through 4 buildings and went to 4 alarms bringing 200 firefighters to the scene. Two of the firefighters were injured when the ceiling collapsed on them.

The fire occurred at 726 Van Nest Ave. in the Bronx.

News links: 17 firefighters hurt in Bronx blaze that causes partial building collapse

DAVID HANDSCHUH FOR THE NEWS Two firefighters were injured fighting a blaze on Van Nest Ave. in the Morris Park area of the Bronx.

Posted by on April 14, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Close Call? You be the Judge…Video: Firefighters Feel the Heat Venting the Roof in Uxbridge, MA

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Two firefighters venting the roof at a house fire felt the heat tonight in Uxbridge, MA. They were venting the roof via aerial ladder when fire met them and their task was accomplished! The video states it was a close call…I don’t necessarily agree. After all, when you are venting the roof you are above the fire. The aerial operator backed them away from the fire as they began backing down the ladder.

It looked like solid work.

The video states: The 4 alarm fire was in Uxbridge, MA on Kasey Court shortly before 7:30pm on April 10, 2012. The original call came in as a grill on fire but when firefighters arrived, the fire had extended to the house.

From http://www.providencefirevideos.com/

Posted by on April 11, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighting Operations, Fires, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Early Video: Bexar County House Fire and Possible Arsonist is Dimed out by Neighbors

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This is a unique video. The video is very clear, videoed by a frantic neighbor, and shows pre-arrival fire spread. What is also pretty neat is how the single engine gets some serious work done before others show up…and on tank water!

The house is apparently vacant…yet it WAS potentially occupied by the arsonist when the fire was set. Remember, vacant does not mean unoccupied!

The suspect in setting the fire was seen by neighbors as he tried to leave the scene. Neighbors told a Sheriff’s Deputy who showed up and he went after him. The suspect is being treated for burns…hmmm.

As for where it happened…I did a little searching, but couldn’t quite figure it out. The fire engine says “D2FR” on it. The fire occurred in Bexar County. I believe this is near San Antonio, Texas.

Posted by on April 10, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighting Operations, Fires, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Back From Aruba

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Last week I was on vacation. Let me tell you, Aruba was awesome! I left the computer at home and simply traveled with the tablet. I did not do much but occasionally check my email. Do you blame me? I will be posting more pictures and some info on Aruba’s Brandweer (Fire Department) soon!

I bet you never thought I could go without a computer for 1 whole week…me either!

Here is the part that sucks…I have a ton of emails to go through. I figure I will go through about a thousand to find the 10 actual emails (the rest being spam or auto emails I rarely read). Then I have to get back into the swing of things. In addition to that, the kids are on spring break this week. I am spending time with them. We have planned several events. Oh, and my niece is hanging out with us this week as well. Needless to say, I have my hands full of kids and fun…so you still won’t see much from me until next week.

What also sucks is the news of the Tennessee LODD and two Philly LODD’s. Godspeed Brothers.

The view from our room

And we all know what next week is….FDIC! That’s right. Willie Wines Jr., Mike Elston, Andrew Catron and I are driving up Wednesday through Sunday. We cannot wait. I will be posting our itinerary this week sometime! We will have patches, challenge coins, brotherhood chips, and maybe some other stuff to hand out! Be sure to hit us up early…we aren’t bringing 30k of them!

Hero Rush is on April 28th in Maryland…I am still not entirely sure if my wife and I will make it. We will see.

Also on the horizon are two large events…

People occasionally ask what they need to do to get Willie and I to speak at an event, or Dave and I to present on social media…the answer is simple – contact us. If we need to submit a proposal, we can do it. Just let us know! We enjoy traveling and speaking!

May

In May, I am speaking with Dave Statter and others at the  Ohio Fire & Emergency Services Foundation’s 2012 Leadership Conference. It is May 23 & 24 in Newark, Ohio. Lt. Steve Robertson from the Columbus Division of Fire will also be at the conference. Click here to sign up.

September 

Announcing the South Dakota Firefighter Benefit. Willie and I will be speaking at the event September 15th. This brand new event was thought up, planned, and is being executed by Bob Gard. Let me just tell you now, this is going to be ONE HELLUVA GOOD TIME! From the event, to the auction items, to the give away stuff, to everything else…it is going to be fun! Willie and I will actually be in town early and travelling across the state IN A CRIMSON FIRE TRUCK visiting stations and meeting South Dakota’s Bravest!

The SD Firefighter Benefit was created to bring firefighters from across the state together to raise money for organizations that are solely funded by donations, and work to better the fire service.  This year we have selected the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation find out more about this organization at www.firehero.org,  the second organization is The National Firefighter Endowment find out more herewww.thethinredline.org.

Pinterest

Are any of you on Pinterest? Check out the Fire Critic on Pinterest here. I know what some of you are saying….ha look at that, FC is on pinterest…ha ha ha. I get it, trust me I do. I deserve it too! However, in an attempt to ensure I at least understand most social media platforms, I finally decided to take a look. What was most interesting was at the 2-3 dozen images that had already been shared on Pinterest from FireCritic.com! Very cool!

Ok, that is a short update. I will be progressing through emails and getting caught up in about 4 weeks I imagine!

I have a lot more stuff to share. A package arrived from Bob Gard (see above), Firehouse Pride, and Axe…more on those in a later post!

Posted by on April 9, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Video: FDNY Fights High-Rise Fire in Manhattan 16th-18th floors

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Video below of FDNY firefighters battling a high-rise fire in lower Manhattan. The videos offer two angles of the fire which started on the 16th floor and extended to the 18th. According to reports, it is a 21 story building. Firefighter Nation beat me to this story…they have a little more on it here. The fire occurred at 69 Columbia Street yesterday, March 28th around 11:18am.

Posted by on March 29, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighting Operations, Fires, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Hero Rush, FDIC, Quick Drills, and More!

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I am gearing up for FDIC as many of my friends are as well. This year, Willie and I will be traveling with Mike Elston (Salem FD), and Andrew Catron (Kingsport FD). We look forward to many of the events. I will be posting our itinerary soon to let you all know where we will be.

My wife and I are planning on doing the Hero Rush in Maryland on April 28th. We just need to solidify someone to watch our children. We have a wedding to attend that evening in Norther Virginia as well.

Hopefully, Willie and I will have the patches and challenge coins by FDIC. The patches should be here later this week. We will let you know how to get yours soon! The patches were made by NM Coin LLC.

The pic on the right is our new patch!

This weeks “Best of the Rest” is a little short. Today, I decided to ride my bike (as in bicycle) to the gym and back. Did I mention it was “leg” day at the gym which is about an 8 mile ride one way. It was fun though!

Shoutout: Hero Rush

Web site: Hero Rush

Facebook: Facebook.com/herorush

Twitter: @HeroRush

An obstacle race & experience created by firefighters.

Quick Drills

You can view all of the weekly drills by FirefighterCloseCalls.com here. Try these two at the firehouse this week:

Random Tweet of the Week

News and Opinion

VAFireNews.com: Help VAFireNews.com spread the word about the Gore VFD needing a tanker. They are in desperate need of a donated tanker after they lost theirs in a wreck that claimed the life of one of their firefighters. Read more here and help by sharing on Facebook!

FireGeezer.com celebrates 5 years as a blog. He also has some stats, like over 12,000 posts! That is an achievement! Read more here

Fire Critic Chicken Salad: You guys asked for it…Here is the recipe that my guys love at the firehouse. Ok, maybe they like more, but this is one of them. Check out the recipe here.

FireLawBlog.com has the update on a local story for The Fire Critic. A lawsuit was dismissed by the judge in the case of a firefighter supposedly having sex in a station. The latest lawsuit alleged sex discrimination against Dennis Croft. Read more here

Boron Extrication continues to teach us about vehicles…and what we need to know to keep us safe!

Backstep Firefighter offers some insight and a few links on Transitional Attack. Read more here

STATter911.com originally shared this bit below of two firefighters trying to occupy the same space while heading to an alarm.

Posted by on March 27, 2012 • Filed under: Best of the Rest, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Humor, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Please Help: The Gore VFD Needs a New Tanker after LODD Wreck

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The Gore VFD needs help. They need a tanker. You can help by sharing on Facebook and Twitter. Either share this post, or share the original post on VAFireNews.com that already has 226+ “likes” on Facebook! Bloggers can help by posting this on their blogs too!

Share the story and help it go viral!

On February 13th of this year, the Gore Volunteer Fire Department suffered a tragic loss. Firefighter Zachary Whitacre was killed, In the Line of Duty, during a single vehicle wreck. The Gore VFD is rebuilding. Not only did they lose a bright young firefighter, they also lost their tanker. A tanker they rely on for water supply in their area.

They are looking for help. They are seeking a tanker to be donated to their fire department. There have been many offers of used tankers for sale, but they simply do not have the funds to purchase. Not even a used tanker.

If you know of any department willing to donate a tanker, or someone willing to fund the purchase of a tanker please contact them.

From VAFireNews.com:

Gore VFD is in desperate need of a Tanker…help them out by sharing this with anyone and everyone!

The Gore Volunteer Fire Department of Frederick County, Virginia suffered a tragic loss back in February when Station 14 member Zachary Taylor “Zach” Whitacre passed away in a line of duty death as a result of an accident.    The department wishes to express its thanks and gratitude to all departments for the support they have received since Zach passed away.

As a result of this accident, the department’s “Tanker 14”, a 1,500 gallon tanker, was totaled and the Gore members are utilizing their current 1994 Pierce with a 1,000 gallon water tank as their primary suppression unit.  The Gore Volunteer Fire Department is in desperate need of a used tanker.

Based on their first due response area, a tanker truck carrying 1,500 – 1,800 gallons of water is needed.  Since the department would have to utilize the tanker as a backup to their engine, a 1,000 gallon per minute pump (or 750 gallon per minute) is also preferred.

If your department is selling or willing to donate your tanker truck to the Gore community, please contact Assistant Chief Kevin Yost at Fire Station 14.  The phone number to contact is (540) 858-2811. If you prefer email, contact the editor of VAFireNews.com at editor@vafirenews.com and I will forward the message. 

Posted by on March 26, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Funding & Staffing, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Your Winners – The 2012 Fire & EMS Blogs of the Year

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Congratulations to the following blogs for being named the 2012 Blogs of the Year!

Reader’s Choice Fire Blog of the Year: STATter 911

Judge’s Choice Fire Blog of the Year: Backstep Firefighter

Reader’s Choice EMS Blog of the Year: Insomniac Medic

Judge’s Choice EMS Blog of the Year: EMS 12 lead

After weeks of nominations, voting, and judging…the blogs above beat out all the rest!

Special thanks to our Judges

Hosted by EMS1, FireRescue1 and FireCritic.com, and sponsored by the American Military University, this contest has the goal of finding the best bloggers in the EMS and fire industries.

Below you will find all of the nominated blogs…The ones in bold were the ten finalists for voting. The ones bold and italic were finalists for the judges. The remaining nominated blogs are below that in no particular order.

You should definitly check through the list to see the blogs. You might find one you had never read.

Fire Blogs Shortlist for Voting and Judges

EMS Blogs Shortlist for Voting and Judges

The Rest of the Nominated Blogs:

Posted by on March 23, 2012 • Filed under: Blog of the Year, Contests, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gourmet Chicken Salad Recipe…Fire Critic Style!

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You guys have asked for it. I think I have dangled it in front of your faces long enough. It is time that I set you out on your journey to see if you can make the Fire Critic Gourmet Chicken Salad (Willie, the T is silent in Gourmet). Feel free to offer your ideas to make it better.

Here is how it goes…One day at the firehouse, the guys said they wanted chicken salad. I knew how to make chicken salad, but it wasn’t great. I didn’t want to make it. I don’t like it when cooking is a chore and not fun. One of the guys said that I could come up with a gourmet style chicken salad.

I did the only natural think I knew to do…I googled it.

I found a half dozen recipes on gourmet chicken salad. I looked them over and walked away. I can cook from a recipe, but it was not necessary. Therefore, the inspiration for this recipe was taken from several recipes. I knew I did not want to use mayo or that slaw dressing. I wanted something lighter and maybe healthier.

I can also tell you that while I can give you the ingredients, you will have to figure out how much of each you will need. I simply cook by sight.

Ingredients:

  • Oven Roasted chicken (broiled/grilled will work as well)
  • Walnuts (chopped)
  • Almonds (sliced)
  • Celery chopped small
  • Onion chopped small (do not use a lot of onion)
  • Grapes cut in half (black or red seedless work the best)
  • Dried Cranberries
  • Mandarin Oranges
  • Creamy Cucumber salad dressing (Kroger brand offers one)
  • black pepper

One way of making this meal cheaper is to cook extra chicken the shift before and have it cold in the fridge for the day you want to use it. Another way to make it cheaper is to buy walnuts, cranberries, and almonds in bulk and have it on hand for the next time you make this dish.

I typically season the chicken somehow before cooking. You could try lemon pepper seasoning or oven roasted with Italian seasoning. Pull the chicken from the bone or pull apart the meat on boneless chicken breasts. Save money cooking whole chickens and picking both white meat and dark meat to use. Make it healthier by using only chicken breasts.

In a large bowl, add the chicken, walnuts, almonds, celery, onion, grapes, cranberries, and some black pepper. Mix it up and then add the salad dressing. Mix thoroughly. Finally, add the mandarin oranges and mix up a little bit more. Put the chicken salad in the fridge to chill and serve cold. This stuff is great the next day too!

The photos used in this post were from today. I made a large batch of chicken salad for dinner tonight and lunch on Friday.

The amount of ingredients I used today were approximately:

  • 4 lbs of chicken breasts and 3 whole chickens all oven roasted and seasoned with garlic and lemon pepper seasoning.
  • 12 oz. of walnuts
  • 8 oz. of almonds
  • 1 stalk of celery
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 lb. of grapes
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 2 bottles of creamy cucumber salad dressing
  • 4 cans of mandarin oranges

Optional: You can add apples to the recipe too. I add them occasionally.

The guys love this stuff. It is a meal and dessert in one!

 

Posted by on March 21, 2012 • Filed under: Cooking with the Fire Critic, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Blog of the Year Voting, Firefighter Nation, Mahlon Mitchell, LODD, SAFER, and More!

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Voting ends tomorrow for the 2012 Blog of the Year contest. Hosted by EMS1, FireRescue1 and FireCritic.com, and sponsored by the American Military University. There are some great blogs on the ballot in both Fire and EMS categories! There were almost 400 nominations for 55 blogs.

Vote for your favorite Fire Blog here

Vote for your favorite EMS Blog here

Dave Statter is the one on the right. He said he wouldn't be caught dead in red!

I have to admit something readers…I have been wrong. All this time I have stuck with my story that Dave Statter was NEVER a firefighter. Part of the reason for my inability to think that he could ever have been one of us is because I couldn’t find a department who would claim him. Until this week. The funny thing is that Dave was the first to break the story. Any department who fights fire in drag would have allowed Dave to join their ranks. Here’s to you Sedan Fire Department in Minnesota!  Read more here

St. Patrick’s Day 2012 is behind us. I had fun hanging out with the family. We made it to downtown Roanoke after the parade was over because my son had two lacrosse games to play in. It was the first parade I have missed in several years. According to facebook updates, everyone seemed to have a lot of fun at their respective events!

Shoutout: Firefighter Nation

Web site: Firefighter Nation

Facebook: Facebook.com/firefighternation

Twitter: @FireNation

Think of it as Facebook for Firefighters. The site is a social networking site that allows members to join and share videos, photos, thoughts, ideas, blogs, recipes, etc….etc. Get in on the fun now!

Quick Drills

You can view all of the weekly drills by FirefighterCloseCalls.com here. Try these two at the firehouse this week:

Random Tweet of the Week

 I think we can all relate to this with some of our officers!

News and Opinion

Mahlon Mitchell. photo source http://bloggingblue.com

Mahlon Mitchell is running for Lieutenant Governor in Wisconsin in a run-off election. He is a firefighter and fed up with the way they have been treated. He is trying to make a difference.  http://mahlonmitchell.com/

Mahlon Mitchell was born in Milwaukee and grew up in Delavan, Wisconsin. He now lives with his wife, April and two children, Sie’anna and Karson, in Fitchburg.

Mahlon followed in his older brother’s footsteps when he became a fire fighter in Madison fifteen years ago. His two brothers are fire fighters in Atlanta and St. Paul. These careers came out of a family that instilled values of service and working for others.


FireGeezer.com – Mike “FossilMedic” Ward is seeking to get a road named after FireGeezer.com. Apparently everything is for sale in Virginia! Read more here

Officer.com – In Arkansas, a firefighter is killed and a police officer and firefighter in critical condition after a motorist hit them at an accident scene. Read more

FirefighterNation.com – Be on the lookout for this trailer which was stolen from Lexington (KY?). See the information here

Also on FFN is IAFF: Romney Opposes SAFER and FIRE Act Grant Programs. Most of my friends are republicans….they don’t care about stuff like this

Cincinnati.com – Speaking about SAFER…Cincinnati wants $6 million to hire firefighters. City Wants $6m To Hire 40 Firefighters; Staffing Down To 770

VAFireNews.com has the story on a 54 y.o. Norfolk Firefighter who died at the firehouse. Read more here

Firehouse.com – An off-duty Massachusetts firefighter is being hailed as a hero after saving a family from a fire. Read more here

Video below shows how two firefighters are lucky to be alive after their tanker rolled over. This happened in Madison County, MS. WATCH THE VIDEO to see the destruction the firefighters lived through!

 

Firefighter Product Review

Posted by on March 20, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, In the Line of Duty, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aggressive Interior Attack Helmet Cam Footage. Would You Have Gone in?

31 comments

What do you think? Would you have gone interior? Would you have stayed in the yard?

Obviously we don’t have all the facts on this fire. We don’t know how long it was burning or if there were people inside.

These firefighters make the second floor with an 1 3/4″ line. There might have been a backup line towards the end of the video.

What would you have done?

Firefighter Product Review

Posted by on March 20, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Helmet Camera, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Voting for Your Favorite Fire and/or EMS Blog of 2012

4 comments

The quick links to vote are below:

Vote on for the EMS Blog of the Year

Vote on for the Fire Blog of the Year

Vote on EMS1.com for the EMS Blog of the Year

Vote on FireRescue1.com for the Fire Blog of the Year

Complete rules are here

Here are the blogs on the ballot(s) in no particular order…

EMS Blogs on the Ballot

Fire Blogs on the Ballot

Posted by on March 14, 2012 • Filed under: Blog of the Year, Contests, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Alt Kilt, MN8 Contest, Boston Fire Gear, Random Tweet of the Week and Much More!

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New addition to “Best of the Rest” is the “Random Tweet of the Week”! Scroll down to see this one.

Willie and I are getting geared up for more traveling in 2012. We are looking forward to hanging out with the MN8 FoxFire team at FDIC. In September, Bob Gard is planning one helluva a good time in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. If you are anywhere in the vicinity you will want to be at this event. Willie and I will be speaking, and there will be plenty of other stuff going on as well! We will post more information soon.

In May, Dave Statter and I are presenting in Ohio at the Ohio Fire & Emergency Services Foundation’s 2012 Leadership Conference…Dave has been looking forward to this to some time. He gets to share the stage with his hero err idol (ME). Join us in Newark, Ohio for May 23 & 24.Click here to sign up

If you want to have Willie and I, or Dave and I, or all three of us speak at an event near you just let us know! FireCritic@FireCritic.com

Be sure to check out Fire Critic on Facebook and Click “LIKE”!

Voting for the 2012 Blog of the Year Contest, hosted by EMS1, FireRescue1 and FireCritic.com, and sponsored by the American Military University, will begin tomorrow (March 14th). There are some great blogs on the ballot in both Fire and EMS categories! There were almost 400 nominations for 55 blogs.

AltKilt.com

Shoutout – Alt.Kilt

Web Site: http://www.altkilt.com/

Facebook: Like them on Facebook: lt.Kilt

Twitter: @Alt_Kilt

Our purpose is to provide functional, stylish and well-made kilts that are individually designed and handmade custom for each client.

Alt.Kilt is making Willie Wines Jr. and I custom kilts. Hopefully, we will be wearing them at FDIC!

Quick Drills

You can view all of the weekly drills by FirefighterCloseCalls.com here. Try these two at the firehouse this week:

News and Opinion

Brotherhood Cuts – Willie Wines Jr. has an update from this past weekends inaugural “Brotherhood Cuts” fundraiser. The event raised around $2400 for local departments.

I visited the Shoals Volunteer Fire Department. I was there for the 1st ever Brotherhood Cuts Event.

“Brotherhood Cuts” is a fund raising event specifically designed for the fire service. It raises money through the National Firefighters Endowment who in turn, provides much needed funds and equipment to Departments in need all across the Country. Read more here

BostonFireGear.com

MN8 FoxFire is looking for your designs…and you could win!: MN8 Foxfire, you know…the photoilluminscent company, wants your help designing their new shirt! The new shirt will feature the MN8 FoxFire logo on the front and your design on the back.  The winner will recieve a $100 MN8 FoxFire credit and a t-shirt. The winning design will be available at FDIC. Check out details of the contest.

There might be a FireCritic/IronFiremen/MN8FoxFire shirt in the near future!

Boston Fire Gear: I just got my St. Patrick’s Day long sleeve t-shirt today from Boston Fire Gear. I love Boston, St. Patrick’s day is one of my favorite days to drink holidays, and as a good friend of mine told me yesterday…that is where Irish people are from! NICE! Get your Boston Fire Gear here

STATter911.com: Dave “The Investigator and UL Tester” Statter is at it again with the vinyl siding. This time, two houses go up in Loudoun County…in broad daylight. Check out the pre-arrival video and Dave’s investigative reporting here.

4 Factor "Thin Red Line" Door Chock

4Factor: Matthew Ritter, one half of the now known writers at ELAFFHQ.com, has branched out. Welcome 4Factor to the mix. Right now they are offering hand painted “Thin Red Line” door chocks. Check out the site here. Like them on Facebook here. I haven’t got my hands on one yet…but I will soon. They retail for $4….however read below.

**Current donations, for EACH wedge purchased , are going to Team ELAFFHQ.com bucket brigade for the National Firefighters Endowment! What this means to you is as follows: For EACH wedge you purchase, we make a donation to the bucket brigade in YOUR name. Each donation in YOUR name enters you into a DRAWING for a Phenix TL-2 Leather Fire Helmet! The more wedges you purchase, the better your odds in winning that helmet! Good luck Brother and Sister Firefighters!

FDNY Supports World Record Attempt: A SCARBOROUGH firefighter’s plans to enter the world record books are gathering pace as his fundraising challenge gets the green light in New York. Justin Rowe, who lives in Scarborough and is watch manager at Malton Fire Station, is planning to run to every fire house in New York in seven days. He will be joined in the challenge by Ryedale station manager Andrew Blades, Whitby station manager Mark Naylor and York firefighter Terrence Gregg. Read more here

FireRescue1.com: Are cellphones that important? Worth your life? FireRescue1.com has the story of a woman rescued from a trash compactor after trying to retrieve here cellphone she accidentally threw away. Read about it here

Magnesium Fire in Bellevue, Ohio

Magnesium Fire in Bellevue, Ohio: FireGeezer.com has this story which hits close to home for The Fire Critic. My Mother’s side of the family lives in Bellevue including my Grandparents. I was just up there for a short visit not too long ago. Paul Hasenmeier shared this photo to the right from miles away.

A MAGNESIUM FIRE PRESENTED THE BELLEVUE, OHIO, firefighters with an unusual challenge Tuesday morning when they responded to the MagReTech factory across the road from the Bellevue Hospital. Read more here

Random Tweet of the Week

Follow @FireCritic on twitter for more news 24/7!


Posted by on March 13, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Best of the Rest, Command & Leadership, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, Major Incidents, News, Rescues, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Are you in Western VA? Wanna be a FOOL?

10 comments

Let me begin…I am not a FOOL…yet. But I want to be!

I am referring to the Fraternal Order Of Leatherheads Society or F.O.O.L.S as they are referred to.

The area around me used to have the “Star City FOOLS”. Unfortunately, they didn’t stand the test of time.

Willie Wines Jr. and I have talked about getting another chapter going in our area. Not that we are looking for something else to do, but rather another decent group to be a part of. The FOOLS embody a lot of what Willie and I are about.

I spoke with our friend, and former Star City FOOL, Mike Elston from Salem FD about starting one back up.

We are planning on a “meeting” at a local pub in Roanoke to invite/welcome all who are interested in getting a FOOLS chapter going.

Let me be clear though. Willie and I want to be a part of this chapter. We don’t want/need to be in charge of it. We are also looking for leaders who are interested in taking the reigns of the new chapter. I know of one brother in our department who might be a perfect fit for leading the FOOLS…but it will be up to the members!

Please let me know if you are interested. If you are in Western Virginia and not already in a FOOLS chapter, let me know. This would include from the Harrisonburg area south to NC and TN and all areas surrounding.

I will keep you posted on when the meeting will be. I want to collect names of individuals who are interested. So leave a comment, email me at firecritic@firecritic.com, or hit me up on facebook!

Until then, read up on what the FOOLS is all about!

Posted by on March 11, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Brotherhood Cuts is Tomorrow in NC. We Need Donations Today!

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I wrote about Brotherhood Cuts here about a month ago. The event is tomorrow!

This past month, we have raised about $1200 more dollars bringing the total to $1516 at the time of this writing. But there is still so much money to raise!

Donate here…now!

Where is all the love?

Think of your donation as my salary as a blogger…would you be willing to donate at least $5 for the enjoyment of what I do at FireCritic.com? I don’t get paid. Sure, there are benefits to what I do, but I am not getting rich (seriously, ask my wife!).

I donated $100 to Lt. Chris Gillett. He is $170 shy of his goal of $1000. Eric Southern is $200 shy of his goal.

If you match or exceed my donation I will send you a special gift!

Can you spare at least $5 donation? Each of you?

Donate here…now!

There are many others who are willing to shave their heads too. They need your donations.

Where does the money go? Good question. The answer is that the money raised will buy much needed bail-out bags for firefighters in the North Carolina area.

Willie Wines Jr. will be in attendance. The local news is doing a story tonight at 6pm. They are interviewing Gillett.

Brotherhood Cuts is a fund raiser. However, it isn’t just any fund raiser. This is a fund raiser that gives back to the Fire Service. This initiative isn’t masked by some huge plume of smoke disguising the purpose or sending funds somewhere else.

We raise money for the National Firefighters Endowment. The National Firefighters Endowment then gives to Fire Departments.

National Firefighters Endowment seeks to support organizations that lack the tools and resources necessary to more effectively protect the life and safety of the public and their emergency response personnel with respect to fire and all other hazards.

If you would like to start your own “Brotherhood Cuts” event for your department or organization, please let me know or email the National Firefighters Endowment (shane@thethinredline.org)

Posted by on March 9, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Firefighter Tattoos and Fire Department Tattoo Policies

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The other day, I asked about firefighter tattoos on the Fire Critic Facebook Page. I got a bunch of responses as always because I have the best and most responsive fans/readers!

If you missed out on sharing your tattoo…email me at firecritic@firecritic.com and I will post more in a future post!

This whole thing was spurred by an email I received about tattoo policies. My department might have a tattoo policy, but it is not strict. I personally don’t have any tattoos…yet. I have wanted to get one since I was 18, but have never pulled the trigger. I want to get something that I won’t mind looking at and showing off.

Anthony Miske tattoo as seen on StrikeTheBox.com

Does your department have a grooming policy which includes tattoos?

One department I know just implemented a policy. Among the obvious prohibited “lewd” tattoos it includes:

  • Visible tattoos must be covered up.
  • Future employees are not allowed to have visible tattoos.
  • Current employees may not obtain visible tattoos.
  • Nothing above the shoulders is allowed.
  • Tattoos must be covered up by long sleeve shirts.
  • Bandages may not be used to cover up tattoos.

I will say that I think tattoos above the shoulders are unprofessional in most professions including ours. Sleeves don’t bother me, but lewd tattoos on the arms should be covered up.

Trevor Bertram. My daily tribute reminder of the 343 who climbed on 911. This one is my favorite.

What do you guys think? What is acceptable? What isn’t?

Maybe I should do a fund-raising contest that if I reach a certain goal I will get a tattoo? What do you think?

IronFiremen.com had a bunch of tattoos submitted for a contest he did a while back. Check them out here.

Here is one note that accompanied a tattoo pic:

Hey I know your looking for pics. I Had mine done to include both fire and ems, and it also includes a three leaf clover that shows some of my heritage. My tat was done by Andi at Red Octopus Tattoos in Prince Frederick, Maryland. She has done a bunch of tattoos for firefighters and fire dept art. I am including her Facebook link if you want to get in contact with her and I am including her album link. Hope this helps

More Links

Tommy Warshaw
Tommy Warshaw
Andrew Catron
Andrew Catron

Tom Harkins
Tom Harkins
Sean Duncan
Sean Duncan

Mike Elston
Mike Elston
Mark Robertson
Mark Robertson

Mark Robertson
Mark Robertson
Ken Scofield
Ken Scofield

Kathrine Llewellyn
Kathrine Llewellyn
Kathrine Llewellyn
Kathrine Llewellyn

James Crawshaw
James Crawshaw
James Crawshaw
James Crawshaw

Danny Cooper
Danny Cooper
Anthony Summers
Anthony Summers

Daniel Chewning
Daniel Chewning
Shannon Biddle Tattoo
Shannon Biddle Tattoo

Joe Lefevre Tattoo
Joe Lefevre Tattoo
Jason Brooks Tattoo
Jason Brooks Tattoo

Buck Little
Buck Little
David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo
David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo

David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo
David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo
David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo
David Lee Pfeil Jr Tattoo

Trevor Bertram. My father and I have the same design and everything right down to the color. Only difference is mine has our unit numbers and his says MFD.
Trevor Bertram. My father and I have the same design and everything right down to the color. Only difference is mine has our unit numbers and his says MFD.
Trevor Bertram. My daily tribute reminder of the 343 who climbed on 911. This one is my favorite.
Trevor Bertram. My daily tribute reminder of the 343 who climbed on 911. This one is my favorite.

Trevor Bertram. A spin off of the Sons of Anarchy logo. To me it symbolizes brotherhood. You have to earn it to understand it.
Trevor Bertram. A spin off of the Sons of Anarchy logo. To me it symbolizes brotherhood. You have to earn it to understand it.
Shevais Shrum Tattoo
Shevais Shrum Tattoo

Frank Grantham II Tattoo
Frank Grantham II Tattoo
Jason Ronberg's Sleeve
Jason Ronberg's Sleeve

Bryan Gallup Tattoo as seen on StrikeTheBox.com
Bryan Gallup Tattoo as seen on StrikeTheBox.com
Anthony Miske tattoo as seen on StrikeTheBox.com
Anthony Miske tattoo as seen on StrikeTheBox.com

Scott Egan as seen on StrikeTheBox.com
Scott Egan as seen on StrikeTheBox.com

Posted by on March 8, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Rescue Me, Shaving Heads, Mayor Called Out After Cuts, ELAFF Coming Out Video, Running with the Pak

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Busy…that is the only word to explain it. There is so much going on right now my head is spinning. I coach lacrosse in the spring and our season just started. I coach U9 and U11. My son is on the team. My daughter started playing as well…along with cheerleading. How do we do it all? Back in the day…were days longer? What the hell is going on here?

Did you guys notice the DCFD I added to the Fire Critic banner? Word is that Ellerbe gave me 3 days off for it.

Shoutout – Wolfpak Leatherworks

Web Site: WolfpakLeatherworks.com

Facebook: Wolfpak Leatherworks

High quality, custom made gear for your professional needs. Whether you are a Career Firefighter, a Volunteer, EMT or Medic. We can provide you with the gear that you can depend on and that will look great for years to come. We strive for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Made with pride in Northern California’s Central Valley. Become a FB friend to view our photos and track our progress. Thanks for your support! Be safe, and “Run With The Pak…”

Quick Drills

You can view all of the weekly drills by FirefighterCloseCalls.com here. Try these two at the firehouse this week:

News and Opinion

Brotherhood Cuts is off to a slow start down in North Carolina…The event is this week. I just donated $100. Can I get everyone to donate $5-$25 please?

Donate here…now

The Blog of the Year Contest for 2011-2012 Nominations are currently being accepted until March 10th. Nominate your favorite Fire and/or EMS blog here. This year, FireCritic.com teamed up with FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com for the contest. The sponsor this year is the American Military University.

Go here to nominate your favorite blog

Rescue Me - The popular firefighting drama was inducted into the Smithsonian.

Denis Leary @DenisLeary tweeted:

In case you missed it: Rescue Me was inducted into the Smithsonian, bitch! http://t.co/Rr2ises7

Backstep Firefighter - It is common in our culture and operations to expect engine companies to get as close as safely possible to the seat of the fire in order to make the most efficient attack possible (or most efficient as scientific research and field application have proven). The problem in this approach is that the experience of being tactically close is that the tell tale signs of this have led to “experience makeup.” The “salty” look is equated with aggressiveness and runs counter towards “too safe”. Read more at: THE AREA OF REFUGE AND “EXPERIENCE MAKEUP”

Firefighter Nation –  Massachusetts Firefighter Has Strong Words for Mayor after Fatal Fire. Haverhill firefighter says mayor should be charged with murder. Read it here

STATter911.com - DC Fire Chief faced sexual harassment claim in Sarasota County Floriday. Washington times questions why Kenneth Ellerbe wasn’t fully vetted by Mayor Vincent Gray.  Read it here

County Fire Tactics - a new blog to me…they ask “When do you wear your mask on the roof? When do you get down?” Check out the video here!

ELAFFHQ.com – The guys behind the increasingly popular fire blog ELAFFHQ.com have finally revealed their identities. Willie and I met up with the pair, Pete Sulzer and Matt Ritter, when they visited Roanoke a couple of months ago. They are great guys. They managed to keep their anonymity much longer than I thought. They revealed their identity in this post with video (also below) and they gave away some of the coveted “Lemon Wedges” as well as some freebees from MN8 FoxFire!

Speaking of MN8 FoxFire, they have free shipping right now! http://www.mn8products.com/

 

Green Beret Dies Trying to Save Kids in Fire -  A decorated Green Beret soldier who recently returned from Afghanistan died a hero’s death at home in North Carolina. After Edward Cantrell and his wife jumped from the second floor of their burning home, he wrapped himself in a blanket and ran back inside in an attempt to save their two daughters, AP reports. “He never made it back out,” said a sheriff’s department spokeswoman. The body of the 36-year-old soldier was found near those of his daughters Isabella, 6, and Natalia, 4. Read it here

Memorial Thursday for Posen firefighter killed in New Lenox accident - A memorial service for the Posen firefighter killed in an apparent drag racing accident over the weekend will be Thursday, officials said. The service for Zachary Orel is scheduled at 7 p.m. at Parkview Christian Church,  11100 Orland Parkway in Orland Park. Before the service, firefighters will pay their respects privately, according to a Posen Fire Department news release. Orel, 25, of New Lenox, joined the department in June.

Evanston paramedic calls reach record high - Evanston’s population hasn’t budged much in the past 20 years, but paramedic calls in 2011 were up 35 percent over two decades ago. Demand for paramedic assistance set a record in 2011, with the Evanston Fire and Life Safety Services department logging 5,467 calls for Emergency Medical Service.

FireGeezer.com - Hale Products moving to Florida. Hale Products, Producers of the best-known pumps for fire apparatus, informed the workers in their home plant in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, Monday that they will be shutting down the century-old factory and relocating their manufacturing to Ocala, Florida, by the end of the year.

Posted by on March 7, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Best of the Rest, Command & Leadership, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nominate Your Favorite Blog. 2012 Fire & EMS Blog of the Year Contest

1 comment

It is that time of year again…The 2012 Fire & EMS Blog of the Year Contest is here!

Actually, we are a little late out of the shoot this year, but it is even better than before!

Hosted by EMS1, FireRescue1 and FireCritic.com, and sponsored by the American Military University, this contest has the goal of finding the best bloggers in the EMS and fire industries.

Like last year, we will have both Fire & EMS Blogs of the year. However, this year we will award the following:

  • Judge’s Choice Fire Blog
  • Reader’s Choice Fire Blog
  • Judge’s Choice EMS Blog
  • Reader’s Choice EMS Blog

Go here to nominate your favorite blog

Important links:

In case you were wondering who has won in the past…

Posted by on March 1, 2012 • Filed under: Blog of the Year, Contests, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Apparently it was More Than Willie Could Bear

1 comment

Poor Willie…I’m afraid the strain was more than he could bear.

Willie Wines Jr. (IronFiremen.com) has been writing about a local fire department. Read the articles here, here, here, and here. Willie’s unique humor on a very serious topic has uncovered some interesting and debatable topics.

The issues aren’t unique to our area and Willie speaks of them in generalized terms that have reached far and wide.

But the fact remains that we have a local Chief bucking the hiring of a County-wide Fire/EMS Director. The unfortunate part is the Chief’s choice of words in news articles. He made the department (not our department) look like a bunch of idiots. I am sure not all of them are the caliber of the Chief…but then again they wouldn’t except his resignation when he tried to resign either.

Read Willie’s articles for the big picture.

After writing each article, Willie went deeper and deeper into hiding. He is scared that the Chief is going to kick his ass.

Apparently the stress was more than he could bear.

Word is that the Buckaroo is on a 24 hour watch…sitting in a rocking chair on his front porch with a red tipped pistol, his knife (with zip securing it), some bug juice, and a tonka truck. Rest assured that the Buckaroo has things under control.

Willie, on the other hand, has me working for him today. Luckily for me, the last word on where Willie was holed up was in my bunkroom at firehouse #3…which is unfortunate for Lt. Bradford who is on duty tonight. Don’t worry, he sleeps sound and won’t know what got him.

As for me, I am sleeping in Willie’s bed tonight. We have had a decent day today. Ole Big Head Todd (Harris) is wheeling and Max Meadows Armbruiser is riding backwards.

Chief Adkins stopped by and we caught up. Todd and Chief had some good stories about “back in the day” which were well worth the listen.

Randy (Arm Bruiser) has been haggling with everyone today. Apparently he is supposed to move into his apartment in the morning and everything has gone to hell. His furniture was last seen at a flea market in Kentucky and he can’t get Dish network to install anything.

I am no stranger to #13. I have put in about 6 years out here on the Peters Creek Express. Actually, I was there when they put the new Engine 13 in service.

If anyone <cough…cough> needs directions to Willie’s house just let me know. Working double shifts is killing me.

Say When…Lunger.



Firefighter Product Review

Posted by on March 1, 2012 • Filed under: Fire Rescue Topics, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Missing Florida Firefighter Jerry Perdomo Dead. Daniel Porter Arrested for Drug Related Homicide

2 comments

Update:

The body of Jerry Perdomo has been found. Perdomo’s body was found in a wooded area in Maine. Daniel Porter is charged with his death.

There is a decent synopsis of the events leading up to Perdomo’s death here. It answers many of the questions everyone has been asking since his disappearance.

The affidavit for the arrest of Daniel Porter can be read here.

Original post:

Daniel Porter, the man wanted and questioned about the disappearance of a Florida Firefighter, has been charged arrested on murder charges. Jerry Perdomo, 31, has been missing since February 16th. He was last seen in Bangor, Maine. Perdomo was a Seminole County Firefighter at the time of his disappearance. His body has not been recovered yet. Earlier reports showed police looking for Daniel’s girlfriend as well. She is not suspected to be involved in the murder.

Previous coverage on FireCritic.com  here and here

Firefighter Nation has also been following this story with its latest here and here.

As this story slowly unfolded, it was apparent that many details were being kept from public record. Investigators had tight lips about what was going on. However, much of the circumstances left others wondering what really happened to Perdomo.

Even with the murder charges, we are left wondering what happened.

Perdomo was married with two children, 3 and 10 years old.

He had an apparent girlfriend in Maine whom he visited every month.

He was somehow wrapped up in drug related activity.

Seminole County Firefighters have been in Maine and assisted with the search for Perdomo.

More information will be posted as it is available.

Daniel Porter, second from right, is lead to a waiting police car by Maine State Police detective Brain Strout, second from left, as Bangor Police detective Larry Morrill holds the door Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012 in Jackson, Maine. Porter was arrested at his father's home in Jackson and is being charged with murder in connection with the disappearance of Florida firefighter Jerry Perdomo. With Porter is his father, Gary, right, who was present when his son was arrested. (AP Photo/The Bangor Daily News, Kevin Bennett)

Posted by on February 29, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Best of the Rest – Shaved Heads, Daytona 500 Fire, The Bowring, The Hose Jockey, and a Great Article to Read

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A quick note about comments on FireCritic.com. Don’t cuss, your comment will not be approved. Other than that, I don’t appreciate or approve assaults on others. That is all.

Shoutout – FireProductReview.com

Web Site: FireProductReview.com

Facebook: Firefighter Product Review

Twitter: @FireReviews1

The Bowring Tool

Feature post: The latest review completed is on the Bowring tool. I (I am one of the reviewers and the site administrator) am seeing how benificial this site can be with letting others rate the products too. I gave the Bowring a 7. The user score is a 3.1 (7 votes total) as of this writing. The site gives users and visitors the ability to rate the products themselves. You don’t have to login to offer your thoughts. If you want to login, you can register or use Facebook to connect. It is as simple as that!

It seems as though there are 3 kinds of people when it comes to the Bowring. Those who love it, those who hate it, and those who have never heard of it.

Quick Drills

You can view all of the weekly drills by FirefighterCloseCalls.com here. Try these two at the firehouse this week:

News and Opinion

The Blog of the Year Contest for 2011-2012 will be starting on March 1st. This will be the third year for the contest. This year, FireCritic.com teamed up with FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com for the contest. The sponsor this year is the American Military University. Look for more information on the contest, how and when to nominate, and when voting begins in the next two days!

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb - Why We Climb: Taking the Step to Honor and Heal - When five firefighters from Colorado first gathered in the spring of 2005 to climb the stairwell of a local office building, they intended to do it for conditioning and camaraderie. They never thought that, within six years, they would be coordinating a series of nationwide climbs to honor the lives of the 343 firefighters from FDNY who died on September 11, 2001 and help their survivors heal. As we approach the 2012 9-11 Memorial Stair Climbs with the inaugural event at FDIC on April 20 at Lucas Oil Stadium, we look back at a recent event that explains why we climb. Click here to register for the FDIC climb and here to find other climbs this year.

Brotherhood Cuts – I have been mentioning this for weeks. It goes down on March 10th. MtAirynews.com picked up the story and I am even mentioned in the article. Firefighters Shave the Day - “I have decided to join friends and firefighters to shave our heads and mustaches to raise money to help protect each other. The funds raised will go to purchase bail-out kits for fire departments in Surry County,” said Gillett. Read more: Mount Airy News – Firefighters to shave the day

Speaking of Shaving Heads… Check out 9 Year Old Jordan!

Jordan and her brother at their father's firehouse on 9/11/11

Jordan B. is 9 years old. Her father is a long time reader of  The Fire Critic.This year, Jordan is shaving her head for St. Baldrick’s. Read more about this little girl here. Read it here

Jordan is hoping to raise $3000. She has already raised $1780. Help her out! Her message: I’ve answered the call to be a hero! I’m having my head shaved to stand in solidarity with kids fighting cancer, but more importantly, to raise money to find cures. Please support me with a donation to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. This volunteer-driven charity funds more in childhood cancer research grants than any organization except the U. S. government. Your gift will give hope to infants, children, teens and young adults fighting childhood cancers. So when I ask for your support, I’m really asking you to support these kids.

A lesson in Social Media - Site Unseen: Red Sox Spring Training Park Gaffe: Boston’s beloved baseball team is moving into JetBlue Park this spring in Ft. Myers, Fla. The new crown jewel of the Grapefruit League cost an estimated $78 million to build … but they probably wish they’d spent a few more bucks. A resident not far from the new ballpark owns the most likely web domain name for the Red Sox new spring home. Eric Engelman purchased the site last year. Read it here

The Hose Jockey has an excellent awareness article and video on MAYDAY scenarios. Check it out here

One of the best articles I have read all year resides on FireEngineering.com. The article titled “Thirty Five Years: An Open Letter to My Father”: I barely knew what a screwdriver did when he taught me to tie knots, told me handcuff knots are good for dragging a lifeless firefighter and he taught me a snap bowline and winked, said, “Impress them with that one, kid.” He gave me a prussic and a couple of carabiners and showed me 20 things to do with that loop of rope, like hanging onto a 2 1/2 for an hour despite squad telling me I am a wuss.  Read it here

IronFiremen.com – America’s Fire Captain Willie Wines Jr. has been following a local story of a volunteer Chief who has been outspoken against the hiring of a County wide Fire/EMS Director. Willie shoots it straight and offers some quotes from the misinformed Chief. The latest is here. Read previous posts here and here.

Jerry Perdomo is still missing in Maine. I posted here and here on the story. Firefighter Nation has been keeping up with the story and its latest here.

ELAFFHQ.com – The guys at ELAFFHQ are giving stuff away. Word is that they will soon be giving up their identities. Willie and I couldn’t be more proud of this couple for coming out of the closet! Get your swag here!

Statter911.com has the latest on our brothers in Bladensburg here

By now, I am sure you guys have seen the video from the Daytona 500 last night when Juan Pablo Montoya crashed into a jet dryer truck. If not, the video is below

Posted by on February 28, 2012 • Filed under: Administration & Leadership, Command & Leadership, EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, News, Videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Brad “55″ Harris Moves on Up

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One of our guys at #3 is quitting leaving the department. He has found more gainful employment in Augusta County and will be starting there in a couple of weeks. Brad has been with the department about 7 years. He has worked with us for a couple of months at #3 since FF/PM Drew Abel went to work at #5. Brad’s departure is not unique, we have seen many of our firefighters leave the department for better benefits, better opportunity, and better pay at other departments. As a matter of fact, Brad will be joining another of Roanoke’s Bravest in Augusta. A couple of months ago, Captain Mike Armstrong retired to take a job as Deputy Chief in Augusta County.

Brad has fit right in with us. We have shared many laughs. Brad will be missed…we just aren’t sure by who.

Brad is also the head coach of the Roanoke Rampage Football team. The Rampage is part of the NPSFL. Brad was our star linebacker and got sidelined…he took up coaching. If you ask him, he was looking at another career in the NFL.

Brad’s assignments have been 7, old 5, 2, new 5, 3.

I invited his wife and children by the firehouse tonight for a special meal on his last day. Just by chance, we ended up with our entire crew at the dinner table with the Harris Family. We took the opportunity to take a picture of the entire crew.

We cooked steaks, baked potatoes, and broccoli. Toni Lynn, Brad’s wife, brought an ice cream cake and I also baked a “special” cake for Brad.

It was a great time! Next cycle will be so much better. We won’t have the constant whine coming from Brad about riding the medic truck or his challenging EMT-I class anymore… sigh.

Toni Lynn is welcome back any time!

Here are some photos

Captain Mac Craft and Firefighter Brad Harris
Captain Mac Craft and Firefighter Brad Harris
Firefighter Brad Harris and Lieutenant Rhett Fleitz
Firefighter Brad Harris and Lieutenant Rhett Fleitz

Firefighter Brad Harris and his wife Toni Lynn
Firefighter Brad Harris and his wife Toni Lynn
Firefighter Brad Harris and Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Mulford
Firefighter Brad Harris and Firefighter/Paramedic Eric Mulford

Firefighter/EMT-I Jason "JG" Gardner posing in front of the lovely Medic 3
Firefighter/EMT-I Jason "JG" Gardner posing in front of the lovely Medic 3
Firefighter Brad Harris, Captain Mac Craft, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Firefighter Jason Gardner, Firefighter David Lucas, Firefighter Eric Mulford
Firefighter Brad Harris, Captain Mac Craft, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Firefighter Jason Gardner, Firefighter David Lucas, Firefighter Eric Mulford


Posted by on February 27, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

SC Fire Truck Stolen. Strikes and Kills Pedestrian after Causing Several Wrecks

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Beaufort/Port Royal Firefighters ended up rescuing a man who stole their fire truck, caused several crashes, hit and killed a pedestrian, then wrecked the apparatus in the woods.

This incident occurred in Port Royal, South Carolina. The firefighters were on an EMS call when their rig was stolen.

A coroner was called to the scene for the pedestrian who died.

More information as it is updated.

News links:

Photo from WSAV.com

Posted by on February 24, 2012 • Filed under: EMS Topics, Fire Rescue Topics, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, News • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , ,