• Home >
  • Back Issues >
  • Firehouse Magazine >
  • June 2011

    • June 2011

    Joseph Epstein
    BROOKLYN, NY, FEB. 7, 2011 – A fire in a two-story brick commercial building spread to exposure two. Four handlines and one tower ladder were used to knock down the heavy fire.
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Bill Tompkins/www.btfirephotos.com
    FAIR LAWN, NJ, FEB. 24, 2011 – A two-family home was destroyed in a two-alarm blaze, leaving four people homeless, including one person in a wheelchair. Units were dispatched shortly before 7 A.M. First-arriving police units confirmed that heavy smoke and fire was visible. All residents safely evacuated the building before the arrival of fire units, but flames had full possession of the second floor and attic. A second alarm was transmitted as exposure lines were put in operation. An interior attack was attempted, but heavy fire and the possibility of collapse made that untenable. Several exterior lines were put into operation as well as an elevated master stream in the rear. After about a one-hour battle, the flames were darkened down and held to the original fire building. The heat had melted the siding on both exposure buildings, but no other damage was reported. The cause is under investigation.
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Tom McDonald
    SEABROOK, TX, FEB. 26, 2011 – An early-morning blaze sent one resident to a Galveston burn center with serious injuries and displaced more than 50 families from the Emerald Shores complex in this coastal suburb of Houston, just blocks from the Johnson Space Center. Ten area volunteer fire departments assisted Seabrook, whose aerial is shown being moved into position to cut off flames spreading through a third building and threatening a fourth. Three aerial streams and numerous handlines were deployed to contain the fast-spreading early-morning fire, which destroyed roughly half the complex.
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Butch Moran
    Sb 611 Fdnyhockeybm1 0844 10267683
    Dec. 5, 2014

    More content from June 2011

    Emile Wamsteker/The New York Times/Redux
    Firefighters from Rescue Company 4 carry Firefighter Brian Fahey, killed in the line of duty from the fire building to an ambulance as remaining firefighters remove their helmets in silent tribute. Emile Wamsteker/The New York Times/Redux
    The Father's Day Fire in Astoria, Queens, on June 17, 2001, claimed the lives of three FDNY firefighters and injured dozens.
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Onthejobjune Hpim0128fh 10263644
    banner: INCIDENT REPORTCORNWALL FIRE DEPARTMENTManager of Emergency Services: Myles CassidyPersonnel: 56 career firefighters, 1 mechanic, 1 training officer, 3 fire prevention...
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Rewarding people for good behavior as a first choice instead of punishing bad behavior creates better results. There are, of course, circumstances where bad behavior is not going...
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Images courtesy of TRX Systems Inc.
    GPS paths are inaccurate near buildings. Indoor tracking systems allow accurate tracking after personnel go indoors.
    A firefighter radios that he is down, but is too overcome to say where. A hot spot suddenly flares up and explodes, needing more water and manpower. A father frantically tells...
    Dec. 5, 2014
    Firefighters require both dependable global positioning systems (GPS) and dependable wireless communications to be effective. As many fire chiefs have expressed concern over potential...
    Dec. 5, 2014
    The SideWinder, which is used for vehicle stabilization and lifting, has changeable heads, carry handle, wide polymer-coated base, attachment clevis, roller-bearing drive train, unique rod-in-tube screw mechanism and safety pins allowing the head to pivot. A positive locking thread device, it is very effective and can be used in conjunction with the JYD Rescue Struts for optimal lifts. The SideWinder is third-party tested to hold more than 15,000 pounds and is rated for a maximum 7,500-pound working load limit.
    The SideWinder, which is used for vehicle stabilization and lifting, has changeable heads, carry handle, wide polymer-coated base, attachment clevis, roller-bearing drive train...
    May 13, 2011
    AMKUS Rescue Systems now offers a single connection coupler. The mono coupling allows connecting and disconnecting of tools while the line is under flow (in most cases it’s not necessary to place the directional control of the power unit in the neutral position). The mono coupling can convert standard AMKUS twin line hoses into a single connection allowing customers to retrofit existing AMKUS Rescue tools.
    AMKUS Rescue Systems now offers a single connection coupler. The mono coupling allows connecting and disconnecting of tools while the line is under flow (in most cases it’s not...
    May 11, 2011
    The New Super Beast was developed with new vehicle safety standards in mind as well as the safety of the user and their patients. As the automobile industry continues to create stronger vehicles, we at Champion Rescue Tools have continued to keep one step ahead by building the most powerful rescue tools in the industry. With up to 500,000 pounds of cutting force, the Super Beast will take the first responder into the next decade of automotive innovation. The Super Beast can change from a cutter to a spreader in seconds.
    The New Super Beast was developed with new vehicle safety standards in mind as well as the safety of the user and their patients. As the automobile industry continues to create...
    May 11, 2011
    Channellock, Inc.’s exclusive Rescue Tool line now has a new addition – the #87 Rescue Tool. Designed specifically for firefighters, first responders and EMTs, the #87 is two inches shorter and 30 percent lighter than Channellock’s previous #89 Rescue Tool, but is still packed with powerful safety functions essential in emergency situations. Manufactured in Meadville, Pa., the #87 offers five safety functions in one compact tool that can easily fit in a pocket. At 8.8 inches long and 1.1 pounds, features of the #87 include: Hardened cutting edge designed to shear through soft metal and standard battery cables; Narrow jaw that fits into tight spaces; Tapered pry wedge to open doors and windows; Spanner wrench to tighten and loosen up to 5-inch hose couplings; Gas shut-off valve slot. From June 1-30, 2011, CHANNELLOCK is running a “Buy One, Donate One” promotion, enabling purchasers who buy one #87 to donate another to the firefighter of their choice.
    Channellock, Inc.’s exclusive Rescue Tool line now has a new addition – the #87 Rescue Tool. Designed specifically for firefighters, first responders and EMTs, the #87 is two ...
    May 11, 2011
    Designed to put Technical Search capabilities into the hands of First Responders, HASTY SEARCH KIT combines the NEW Recon III SearchCam Camera, the two sensor Delsar Life Locator system, a multi position battery charger and 4 li-Ion batteries within one watertight case - ready for rapid deployment. The Hasty Search Kit puts reliable, high quality Tech Search Tools into the hands of those who need them, with a cost effective price-tag.
    Designed to put Technical Search capabilities into the hands of First Responders, HASTY SEARCH KIT combines the NEW Recon III SearchCam Camera, the two sensor Delsar Life Locator...
    May 11, 2011
    Genesis cutter makes All 9’s in accordance to the NFPA 1936 scale! The aptly named “ALL 9” cutter has accomplished a feat no other cutter currently on the market has done. It has cut all of the largest pieces of steel on the NFPA 1936 scale certified by a 3rd party testing organization. This test has proven to be a much better way of comparing two cutting tools as it depends on actual performance, not calculated cutting forces, which is how it was traditionally done in the past.
    Genesis cutter makes All 9’s in accordance to the NFPA 1936 scale! The aptly named “ALL 9” cutter has accomplished a feat no other cutter currently on the market has done. It ...
    May 5, 2011
    The POW•R•ENTRY breaching tool from IMLCORP has reengineered chisels for greater durability. Its specially designed powder-actuated drive mechanism and cutting heads enable firefighters to safely break through door handles and locks, padlocks and security bars with 30,000 pounds (13,600 kg.) per square inch of force at the point of contact for rescues and access to blocked areas. POW•R•Entry generates no flashes or explosions, and no parts leave the tool.
    The Pow•R•Entry breaching tool from IMLCORP has reengineered chisels for greater durability. Its specially designed powder-actuated drive mechanism and cutting heads enable firefighters...
    May 5, 2011
    MSA’s new, innovative device for emergency egress, the Rescue Belt II System, allows firefighters to rappel to safety should they become trapped in a building’s upper level. Rescue Belt II System is compatible with all MSA pouches, including ExtendAire II and Quick-Fill Systems. The rescue belt pouch of Ara-shield construction easily stores 50’ of MSA 100% Technora/nylon rescue rope, F4 Sterling descender, and Crosby hook. The system meets NFPA 1983-2006 edition for Fire Service Life Safety Rope and System Components.
    MSA’s new, innovative device for emergency egress, the Rescue Belt II System, allows firefighters to rappel to safety should they become trapped in a building’s upper level. Rescue...
    May 5, 2011
    Protecto Wrap Company has redesigned their Protecto Extrication Wrap Rescue Tape to include an Easy Peel Edge Tab to make it easier to deploy in the field. Protecto Extrication Wrap Rescue Tape is a high-performance, self-adhering membrane that protects First Responders as well as collision victims from sharp metal and glass edges. The thin conformable facer allows the user to quickly cover sharp irregular areas that could potentially cause greater injury. Protecto Extrication Wrap can be used to hold broken glass together for safe and efficient removal. Protecto Extrication Wrap adheres to steel, aluminum, glass, vinyl, plastic, wood as well as almost any painted or unpainted surface. The Extrication Wrap is economical and comes in 12”x 25’and 12”x 50’ rolls. The material is also available in precut 12”x 12” pads (20 pieces per order).
    Protecto Wrap Company has redesigned their Protecto Extrication Wrap Rescue Tape to include an Easy Peel Edge Tab to make it easier to deploy in the field. Protecto Extrication...
    May 5, 2011
    Zistos has combined thermal imaging and high resolution video in a single, ultra-slim camera head that attaches to any of their extension poles. Optimized specifically for USAR teams, the THC-50D is the only remote dual thermal imaging camera designed to fit within a standard 2-inch diameter core hole — typically used by technical search specialists to breach a void space in search of entrapped victims. Electronic switching between camera types is instantaneous by using the same control that provides variable illumination for the video camera. Instant correlation between the two images allows US&R specialists to conduct searches more thoroughly and expediently.
    Zistos has combined thermal imaging and high resolution video in a single, ultra-slim camera head that attaches to any of their extension poles.
    May 5, 2011
    THE CAD ZONE INC. has announced the release of Version 9.0 of its Fire Zone diagramming software for the fire service. Features include: • Faster user interface – Toolbars and menus have been re-designed to be more efficient. It’s now much faster to find commands, change object properties and edit existing objects in the drawing. • Aerial views from Bing maps – Enter the address or name of a facility to retrieve a recent satellite photo of the area and place it in the diagram as a background image. Place lines, notes and symbols on top the photo for a quick pre-plan. • New 2D and 3D textures – New texture patterns can be used to show grass, water, asphalt, concrete, wood grain and more. • New “Heads Up Display” – The user can now choose to automatically show object properties and geometry on-screen as they draw, updated in real time. • Import AutoCAD 2011 drawings – Import existing drawings from AutoCAD 2011 and other CAD programs commonly available from building departments. • Moving camera animations – Animations can now be created with a moving viewpoint by fixing the “camera” to any position on a moving symbol.
    THE CAD ZONE INC. has announced the release of Version 9.0 of its Fire Zone diagramming software for the fire service. Features include: Faster user interface – Toolbars and menus...
    May 5, 2011
    AWG FITTINGS has announced the Flex-Lite lightweight PVC suction hose, designed to be 16% lighter with a 24% tighter bend radius. The clear PVC hose allows for visual indication of water movement. The couplings are made of aircraft aluminum are hard coated to military specifications and can easily be removed in the field with standard Allen wrench. All-metal (no plastic) collars secure the hose and include beveled edges for easy loading into apparatus. Metal roller bearings are in the swivels (no plastic).
    AWG FITTINGS has announced the Flex-Lite lightweight PVC suction hose, designed to be 16% lighter with a 24% tighter bend radius. The clear PVC hose allows for visual indication...
    May 5, 2011
    MSA has introduced the FlameGard 5 flame detector family, the latest line in its FlameGard Series. At the forefront is the FlameGard 5 MSIR detector, a multi-spectral infrared detector that features breakthrough neural network intelligence for reliable discrimination between actual flames and nuisance false alarm sources. Additional members of the FlameGard 5 flame detector family include the FlameGard 5 UV/IR detector and the FlameGard 5 UV/IR-hydrogen detector, which both use ultraviolet and infrared detection technology to provide high immunity to false alarms. The FlameGard 5 test lamp for testing the FlameGard 5 detectors is the final component in the new series.
    MSA has introduced the FlameGard 5 flame detector family, the latest line in its FlameGard Series. At the forefront is the FlameGard 5 MSIR detector, a multi-spectral infrared...
    May 5, 2011
    STREAMLIGHT INC. has introduced the Knucklehead with Clip, an LED work light designed to aim the floodlight onto the work area. With a 360-degree rotating head, an alligator clip for attaching the light to turnout gear and a magnet that adheres to most steel surfaces, the light gives first responders a variety of ways to target bright-white light. Available in both rechargeable and alkaline battery C4 LED models, its engineered optics feature dual parabolic reflectors within a larger textured reflector, optimizing light on target with an overall smooth flood pattern. Microprocessor-controlled technology provides multiple modes of operation, including high and low intensity, emergency flash and a long-running moonlight mode. Manufactured from high-impact, super-tough nylon polymer that is both chemical and corrosion resistant, the light features an unbreakable polycarbonate lens with silicone anti-scratch coating set in a heavy-duty bezel.
    STREAMLIGHT INC. has introduced the Knucklehead with Clip, an LED work light designed to aim the floodlight onto the work area. With a 360-degree rotating head, an alligator clip...
    May 5, 2011
    DRÄGER has introduced the PSS 5000, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that has been certified to meet the requirements of NFPA 1981:2007 for firefighting equipment concerning resistance to heat and fire. The unit provides a reliable supply of oxygen combined with a high level of comfort, and is tailored to meet the everyday requirements of firefighters. Its carrying system is adapted to the human body, as it remains stable and firmly fixed in place during heavy-motion operations and is positioned comfortably on the user’s waist, back and shoulders. The support frames, made of carbon, are very light yet robust and thus easily resist shocks or falling objects. None of the materials will deform at high temperatures and are resistant to chemicals and oil. The medium- and high-pressure hoses are integrated into the carrying system without disturbing the wearer. Firefighters or rescue personnel can therefore work in confined spaces without fear of hoses becoming tangled or snagged. To ventilate in an emergency situation in which a workmate or a victim is found, a supplied air line is also available with an optional 20-inch and 40-inch multilink.
    DRÄGER has introduced the PSS 5000, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that has been certified to meet the requirements of NFPA 1981:2007 for firefighting equipment concerning...
    May 5, 2011
    The Crimson Fire Classic Series tanker.
    Spartan Emergency Response builds a full line of custom pumpers that give you the power to perform. Our pumpers are built to work harder and longer at the scene, with industry...
    May 5, 2011
    Photos by Chris E. Mickal
    Denise Liset, left, and Nola from Louisiana Search and Rescue prepare for a training exercise with Captain Linda Pailet and Gator from the New Orleans Fire Department.
    We’ve all been there. You’ve had a major fire in a large abandoned building with an unknown number of transients living in it. You know that at least 20 people were in the building...
    May 4, 2011
    One afternoon, I was sitting in a fire communications center in a major city when a dispatcher received a phone alarm for electrical wires smoking in the house. After he processed...
    May 2, 2011
    Bobduemmel 10260084
    This is the first in a series about the creation of a state-of-the-art technical rescue facility and the events that helped make the vision a reality.Working together has become...
    May 2, 2011
    Dennis C. Sharpe
    THE LINCOLN HOSE COMPANY in Middlesex, NJ, has placed in service a Smeal Sirius pumper equipped with a 500-hp Cummins ISL engine, Hale Qtwo 200-23L pump, 750-gallon UPF Poly Tank IIE water tank, 100-gallon foam tank, Akron foam system, Supervac Command Light, Task Force Tips RC3 Extenda-Gun deluge gun and Kussmaul Auto-Eject.
    THE LINCOLN HOSE COMPANY in Middlesex, NJ, has placed in service a Smeal Sirius pumper equipped with a 500-hp Cummins ISL engine, Hale Qtwo 200-23L pump, 750-gallon UPF Poly Tank...
    April 21, 2011
    Ron Jeffers
    THE NEWARK, NJ, FIRE DEPARTMENT has placed into service three Ferrara custom pumpers built on Ferrara Ember chassis powered by Cummins ISL-425 engines. Each apparatus features a 1,500-gpm Hale Qmax pump, 750-gallon poly water tank, Fire Research InControl pressure governor, Akron Apollo monitor, On Scene Solutions LED compartment lights and Whelen warning and scene lighting. The units are assigned to Engine Companies 15, 26 and 29.
    THE NEWARK, NJ, FIRE DEPARTMENT has placed into service three Ferrara custom pumpers built on Ferrara Ember chassis powered by Cummins ISL-425 engines. Each apparatus features...
    April 21, 2011
    THE COOLVILLE, OH, FIRE DEPARTMENT has placed in service a Sutphen Guardian pumper equipped with a 400-hp Cummins ISL engine, 1,250-gpm Hale Qmax pump, 1,000-gallon tank, On Spot automatic tire chains, Whelen LED lighting, Kussmaul Auto Charge system and ROM rollup doors.
    THE COOLVILLE, OH, FIRE DEPARTMENT has placed in service a Sutphen Guardian pumper equipped with a 400-hp Cummins ISL engine, 1,250-gpm Hale Qmax pump, 1,000-gallon tank, On Spot...
    April 21, 2011
    THE WEST END VOLUNTEER FIRE DISTRICT in DeBorgia, MT, has taken delivery of a Danko Excel 3,000-gallon tanker built on an International 7500 chassis. Components include a 330-hp International Maxx Force engine, Darley HE 34BSD pump, Task Force Tips Tornado electric remote monitor, Hannay reel, FoamPro 1600 foam system, Newton dump valves, 3,000-gallon Fold-A-Tank and Whelen LED lighting.
    THE WEST END VOLUNTEER FIRE DISTRICT in DeBorgia, MT, has taken delivery of a Danko Excel 3,000-gallon tanker built on an International 7500 chassis. Components include a 330-...
    April 20, 2011
    THE TROY, IL, FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT has taken delivery of an American LaFrance walk-around heavy rescue built on an American LaFrance Metropolitan chassis powered by a 500-hp Cummins ISM engine with an Allison 4000EVS-P transmission. The unit is equipped with a 30-kilowatt Harrison generator and Whelen LED warning lights.
    THE TROY, IL, FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT has taken delivery of an American LaFrance walk-around heavy rescue built on an American LaFrance Metropolitan chassis powered by a 500-...
    April 20, 2011
    Ron Jeffers
    THE ELIZABETH, NJ, FIRE DEPARTMENT has taken delivery of a Crimson heavy rescue built on a Spartan Gladiator chassis with a 550-hp Cummins ISX engine with an Allison 4000EVS transmission. The unit is equipped with a 15,000-pound front winch, 9,000-pound portable winch, Robinson rollup doors, 32-kilowatt Onan generator, Federal Signal LED warning lights, six 1,000-watt Fire Research scene lights and Holmatro hydraulic tool compartment with two remote ports.
    THE ELIZABETH, NJ, FIRE DEPARTMENT has taken delivery of a Crimson heavy rescue built on a Spartan Gladiator chassis with a 550-hp Cummins ISX engine with an Allison 4000EVS transmissio...
    April 20, 2011
    Damien Danis
    SADDLE BROOK, NJ, HOOK AND LADDER COMPANY 1 has taken delivery of a Pierce Velocity 95-foot tower ladder equipped with a 300-gallon tank, 2,000-gpm pump, two in-bucket monitors and Whelen LED warning lights.
    SADDLE BROOK, NJ, HOOK AND LADDER COMPANY 1 has taken delivery of a Pierce Velocity 95-foot tower ladder equipped with a 300-gallon tank, 2,000-gpm pump, two in-bucket monitors...
    April 20, 2011
    THE WINDY HILL FIRE DEPARTMENT in Florence, SC, has taken delivery of a KME custom pumper built on a KME Predator X-MFD chassis. Components include a 425-hp Cummins ISL engine, Allison 3000EVS transmission, 1,500-gpm Hale Qmax pump, 1,000-gallon poly water tank and Whelen warning lights.
    THE WINDY HILL FIRE DEPARTMENT in Florence, SC, has taken delivery of a KME custom pumper built on a KME Predator X-MFD chassis. Components include a 425-hp Cummins ISL engine...
    April 20, 2011
    Ron Jeffers
    SECAUCUS, NJ, APRIL 3, 2011 – A woman clinging to her third-floor window fell to her death as flames consumed her apartment in a Meadowlands waterfront housing complex. Police arrived and found the woman, in her 50s, holding onto the window, but she could not hold on until fire companies arrived. The fire extended above and broke through the roof. A second alarm was transmitted, bringing in fire companies from nearby Bergen County.
    SECAUCUS, NJ, APRIL 3, 2011 – A woman clinging to her third-floor window fell to her death as flames consumed her apartment in a Meadowlands waterfront housing complex. Police...
    April 20, 2011
    We should all realize just how lucky we are to be involved in the fire service. Whether you are a full-time career firefighter in a mid-size department, a volunteer lieutenant...
    April 20, 2011
    Photo by Butch Moran
    Engine 343 is pictured in front of the Tribute in Lights memorial at Ground Zero on September 10, 2010. Photo by Butch Moran
    In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, the FDNY Fire Family Foundation wanted to do something to honor the 343 members of the FDNY who died in the line of duty that day. It was...
    March 23, 2011