Vietzke For President
I am Mark Vietzke, and I am running for the position of president for Local 29. I have been with the Spokane Fire Department for 24 years and have worked at Fire Station # 4 since 1994. For the past 9 years, I have served in an official capacity for the local. In 2001, I was elected to the executive board where I served 4 years. In 2005, I was elected vice president and continue to serve in that position today.
Over the past 9 years, I have attended numerous classes and seminars educating and preparing me to do my job as a union leader. The classes have educated me in contract negotiations, grievances, health and safety, LEOFF 2 disability issues, mediation and arbitration procedures, and other aspects of service for you and our union.
I was part of a team that negotiated our latest contract. In my opinion, it’s one of the best contracts in Local 29’s history. We also negotiated a salary savings plan with the city that is a great benefit for retiring members.
One thing I have certainly learned over the years is that you cannot always make everyone happy. However, I can assure you that in every issue, we always try to make a decision that is best for the body as a whole.
The last nine years have been exciting, successful, and humbling. Even though there have been some stresses along the way, I have enjoyed serving as your vice president. I am now am asking for your support to be the next president of Local 29. I can say I will work hard for you and keep Local 29 moving in the right direction.
Thanks for listening,
Mark
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Hello. John Griffith here. I am running for e-board. I was on it years ago, but after my initial term, didn’t run again because of some time constraints.
When I was on the e-board, one of my goals was to establish better lines of communication between union members and also between the union, the citizens and the news media. I maintained this role after my term expired. For many years now, I have continued to edit the newsletter, blog the blog, write press statements, forge relationships with our elected officials and create multi-media epics and underwhelming street theater.
My PR work has been a key topic in senior staff meetings, resulting in the occasional Informational Notice.
Not being on the e-board, yet having the job of “spreading the word,” sometimes leads to an incomplete picture of what’s going on in our union. If elected, once again, I would know more of what’s going on, and I would let you know. In the past, I always brought your concerns to the table, and sometimes was a lone dissenter because I thought it was the right thing to do.
You know what you’re getting if I am elected. I will even “amp it up,” as the kids say. Because of that, or in spite of that, I am asking for your vote.
I would be happy to answer any questions, or hear your concerns. Just click on the Foss head in the upper-right corner.
Thank you,
John Griffith
When I was on the e-board, one of my goals was to establish better lines of communication between union members and also between the union, the citizens and the news media. I maintained this role after my term expired. For many years now, I have continued to edit the newsletter, blog the blog, write press statements, forge relationships with our elected officials and create multi-media epics and underwhelming street theater.
My PR work has been a key topic in senior staff meetings, resulting in the occasional Informational Notice.
Not being on the e-board, yet having the job of “spreading the word,” sometimes leads to an incomplete picture of what’s going on in our union. If elected, once again, I would know more of what’s going on, and I would let you know. In the past, I always brought your concerns to the table, and sometimes was a lone dissenter because I thought it was the right thing to do.
You know what you’re getting if I am elected. I will even “amp it up,” as the kids say. Because of that, or in spite of that, I am asking for your vote.
I would be happy to answer any questions, or hear your concerns. Just click on the Foss head in the upper-right corner.
Thank you,
John Griffith
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Dan Strobeck is running for E board
Our union is only as strong as the effort put into it by its members. Thankfully our previous representatives have been there for us. After many years of letting someone else do the hard work and put a tremendous amount of time into our union, it’s time for some of us to take on bigger roles. I’ve been there when the union calls for help, door belling and sign waving. Now our union needs our help. The union, now more than ever, needs to be strong in these tough economic times. Without a doubt, we face many tough opponents who will try to divide and conquer us. However, a continued vigilance is necessary to face up to the difficult challenges ahead.
In my many duty stations (14’s, 13’s, 3’s, 8’s, 1’s) I have had an opportunity to work with a huge variety of people. I’ve worked on BLS pumper ladders (way old PL14 now in field house), ALS pumper ladders and squads, BLS engines and ALS engines. With this background and perspective I believe I can help our union maintain its strong commitment and dedication to our members.
Thanks for reading this and please consider me for E board,
Dan Strobeck
Our union is only as strong as the effort put into it by its members. Thankfully our previous representatives have been there for us. After many years of letting someone else do the hard work and put a tremendous amount of time into our union, it’s time for some of us to take on bigger roles. I’ve been there when the union calls for help, door belling and sign waving. Now our union needs our help. The union, now more than ever, needs to be strong in these tough economic times. Without a doubt, we face many tough opponents who will try to divide and conquer us. However, a continued vigilance is necessary to face up to the difficult challenges ahead.
In my many duty stations (14’s, 13’s, 3’s, 8’s, 1’s) I have had an opportunity to work with a huge variety of people. I’ve worked on BLS pumper ladders (way old PL14 now in field house), ALS pumper ladders and squads, BLS engines and ALS engines. With this background and perspective I believe I can help our union maintain its strong commitment and dedication to our members.
Thanks for reading this and please consider me for E board,
Dan Strobeck
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Local 29 members, My name is John Goodman and I am running for one of the three soon to open E board positions. I am not a politician or aspire to be one, I speak pretty directly and to the point, sometimes too much so. I am willing to listen, and work for you or with you and the other board members. The learning curve is steep but I am willing to give it the time and energy to make myself a useful tool for the union and the membership. If this sounds like the type of person you would like to represent you on the E board, I would like your vote.
In closing I would like to thank the guys stepping down as they have done a fantastic job and have left us much better off than we could have been.
Thanks for your time, John Goodman
In closing I would like to thank the guys stepping down as they have done a fantastic job and have left us much better off than we could have been.
Thanks for your time, John Goodman
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Wood for E-Board
I’ve been on our fire department for 17 years and I’m convinced we all have some obligation to make this job better and safer for the long-term. For me, this means active union participation, and well-placed political action. Towards this end I’ve tried to pay my dues as a Trustee, Grievance member, and Station Rep. I’ve availed myself of labor education when offered, and I’ve served on numerous committees. Two years ago I had the privilege of attending the State Legislative Conference in Olympia.
Most important, I’ve seen how our contract negotiations play out from beginning to end, and I realize that there is nothing that we get that can be taken for granted. While it’s impossible to make everyone happy, by and large we win the big battles of wages, benefits and working conditions; and only because we pick our battles wisely and do our homework to prepare. With this upcoming election our union is losing some experienced and dedicated members. It would be easy to lose the thread of continuity that has made us successful. To see how quickly things can unravel, look no further than the Police Guild where a regime change allowed personal gripes to overwhelm the greater notion of being a union- the result is dysfunction and a failure to be proactive. For lack of concessions, they now face layoffs and in frustration their President elects to slam us in the pages of the Spokesman-Review. All he had to do was tell the City, “we’ll do what the firefighters did”, but I'm guessing the Guild lacks an established “brain trust” to honestly study the issue. Let’s not make the same mistakes.
I look forward to serving my union brothers and sisters on our eBoard during these challenging times, and I would appreciate your vote!
I’ve been on our fire department for 17 years and I’m convinced we all have some obligation to make this job better and safer for the long-term. For me, this means active union participation, and well-placed political action. Towards this end I’ve tried to pay my dues as a Trustee, Grievance member, and Station Rep. I’ve availed myself of labor education when offered, and I’ve served on numerous committees. Two years ago I had the privilege of attending the State Legislative Conference in Olympia.
Most important, I’ve seen how our contract negotiations play out from beginning to end, and I realize that there is nothing that we get that can be taken for granted. While it’s impossible to make everyone happy, by and large we win the big battles of wages, benefits and working conditions; and only because we pick our battles wisely and do our homework to prepare. With this upcoming election our union is losing some experienced and dedicated members. It would be easy to lose the thread of continuity that has made us successful. To see how quickly things can unravel, look no further than the Police Guild where a regime change allowed personal gripes to overwhelm the greater notion of being a union- the result is dysfunction and a failure to be proactive. For lack of concessions, they now face layoffs and in frustration their President elects to slam us in the pages of the Spokesman-Review. All he had to do was tell the City, “we’ll do what the firefighters did”, but I'm guessing the Guild lacks an established “brain trust” to honestly study the issue. Let’s not make the same mistakes.
I look forward to serving my union brothers and sisters on our eBoard during these challenging times, and I would appreciate your vote!
Monday, October 26, 2009
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Hello Union Brothers,
I am running for one of the vacant Executive Board positions. I am not going into the politics of making statements I can not keep. I will do my best to represent you the union body fairly and equally. I will be approachable for any issues and questions you may have if I do not have the answer to your question I will get the information and get back to you promptly. IF you have any questions on why I am running feel free to call me sta 8 A shift .
Thanks Dan Awbery
I am running for one of the vacant Executive Board positions. I am not going into the politics of making statements I can not keep. I will do my best to represent you the union body fairly and equally. I will be approachable for any issues and questions you may have if I do not have the answer to your question I will get the information and get back to you promptly. IF you have any questions on why I am running feel free to call me sta 8 A shift .
Thanks Dan Awbery
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Prez candidate letter!
Shane Skipworth for Local 29 President
BRINGING THE YOU BACK IN UNION
What makes a strong union? Involvement by all of its members. When I am elected as President of Local 29, I will work for you, the members, not the other way around. As union president, I am responsible for my decisions and actions. However, I am accountable for those decisions and actions to you, the members of the union.
What do I bring to the table? I have been in local 29 for 8 years. I graduated from Eastern Washington University in 1998 with a degree in Criminal Justice which required some classes in law, government, ethics and management. Some people will say I don’t have the experience required to do this job. What I do have is the motivation, desire and personal integrity to be the president. I concentrate on the issues not the person. We may have differing opinions, but you will get the same effort from me. I believe this is about what is right not a popularity contest. We are a professional organization and we should act like it.
I believe in respect, whether it’s dealing with the chiefs, city hall or our membership. We may not agree on every issue, but all discussions and negotiations can be done with professional courtesy and respect.
We need to unite and look toward the future together. We need to unite and be prepared for both the good and the challenging times. We need to unite to be a stronger union. Together let’s bring the you back in union.
Shane Skipworth
BRINGING THE YOU BACK IN UNION
What makes a strong union? Involvement by all of its members. When I am elected as President of Local 29, I will work for you, the members, not the other way around. As union president, I am responsible for my decisions and actions. However, I am accountable for those decisions and actions to you, the members of the union.
What do I bring to the table? I have been in local 29 for 8 years. I graduated from Eastern Washington University in 1998 with a degree in Criminal Justice which required some classes in law, government, ethics and management. Some people will say I don’t have the experience required to do this job. What I do have is the motivation, desire and personal integrity to be the president. I concentrate on the issues not the person. We may have differing opinions, but you will get the same effort from me. I believe this is about what is right not a popularity contest. We are a professional organization and we should act like it.
I believe in respect, whether it’s dealing with the chiefs, city hall or our membership. We may not agree on every issue, but all discussions and negotiations can be done with professional courtesy and respect.
We need to unite and look toward the future together. We need to unite and be prepared for both the good and the challenging times. We need to unite to be a stronger union. Together let’s bring the you back in union.
Shane Skipworth
EBOARD CANDIDATE LETTER!
Brian Chavez for Executive Board
When I decided to run for the E-Board I asked myself the same question that I expect to hear from each one of you. Why do I want to be on the E-Board?
The answer to this question can be found in the Constitution and By-Laws of Local 29, Article 2 titled objectives. It states that one of the objectives of this local shall be "the cultivation of friendship and fellowship among its members". I believe we have lost sight of this and we have let personal agendas and intolerance for diverse opinions divide and even alienate the members of this local. You have members of this local who are ostracized because they are vocal about their opinions and what they feel is a lack of any true representation. This is absolutely unacceptable. You cannot have accountable leaders who are not willing to listen to all
sides.
I believe in equal, fair, non-preferential treatment of all members. I value diverse opinions and I am an advocate of open honest discussion of relevant issues without fear of retribution. As an E-Board member my job will be to represent you, and to be your advocate. The only way to do this is by open communication. I will accomplish this by actually going out and talking with the members. I realize that this is promised by everyone at election time but seldom acted upon. Its time for a change and I promise that I will represent all of you to the best of my abilities.
Thanks for your consideration,
Brian Chavez
Cell 991-2450
When I decided to run for the E-Board I asked myself the same question that I expect to hear from each one of you. Why do I want to be on the E-Board?
The answer to this question can be found in the Constitution and By-Laws of Local 29, Article 2 titled objectives. It states that one of the objectives of this local shall be "the cultivation of friendship and fellowship among its members". I believe we have lost sight of this and we have let personal agendas and intolerance for diverse opinions divide and even alienate the members of this local. You have members of this local who are ostracized because they are vocal about their opinions and what they feel is a lack of any true representation. This is absolutely unacceptable. You cannot have accountable leaders who are not willing to listen to all
sides.
I believe in equal, fair, non-preferential treatment of all members. I value diverse opinions and I am an advocate of open honest discussion of relevant issues without fear of retribution. As an E-Board member my job will be to represent you, and to be your advocate. The only way to do this is by open communication. I will accomplish this by actually going out and talking with the members. I realize that this is promised by everyone at election time but seldom acted upon. Its time for a change and I promise that I will represent all of you to the best of my abilities.
Thanks for your consideration,
Brian Chavez
Cell 991-2450
Saturday, October 24, 2009
fire press release Four fer...
ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/24/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: Update on yesterday's incidents:
10/23/2009 12:09 at 1508 North Post- Working Apartment Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Cause was determined to be combustibles too close to a wall heater. Damage limited to one unit.
10/23/2009 13:57 at 1317 East Rich- HAZMAT Team Incident. Release of 100 gallons of furnace fuel inside the residence. Accidental. $20,000 cleanup/loss. The HazMat Team mitigated the incident and coordinated with a private HazMat clean-up company which assumed responsibility of the site. Spokane Regional Health and Washington State Department of Ecology notified.
10/23/2009 14:11 614 E 7th AVE- Working Structure Fire. Accidental. $200,000 loss. Cause was due to a working fireplace that was not utilizing a closed screen. Sparks from the fireplace spread to combustibles which rapidly propagated throughout the occupied home.
10/23/2009 18:16 1429 E 14th AVE- Structure Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Combustibles left on an operating stove. Damage from the fire was contained to the kitchen, however smoke spread throughout the residence.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Above
DAMAGE EXTENT: Above
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/24/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 44 West Riverside
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: Update on yesterday's incidents:
10/23/2009 12:09 at 1508 North Post- Working Apartment Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Cause was determined to be combustibles too close to a wall heater. Damage limited to one unit.
10/23/2009 13:57 at 1317 East Rich- HAZMAT Team Incident. Release of 100 gallons of furnace fuel inside the residence. Accidental. $20,000 cleanup/loss. The HazMat Team mitigated the incident and coordinated with a private HazMat clean-up company which assumed responsibility of the site. Spokane Regional Health and Washington State Department of Ecology notified.
10/23/2009 14:11 614 E 7th AVE- Working Structure Fire. Accidental. $200,000 loss. Cause was due to a working fireplace that was not utilizing a closed screen. Sparks from the fireplace spread to combustibles which rapidly propagated throughout the occupied home.
10/23/2009 18:16 1429 E 14th AVE- Structure Fire. Accidental. $5,000 loss. Combustibles left on an operating stove. Damage from the fire was contained to the kitchen, however smoke spread throughout the residence.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Above
DAMAGE EXTENT: Above
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
Yesterday - Three Fires in Seven Hours...
Not a lot of media coverage here. I can't point you to any news sites for video because there aren't any. It would be good for citizens to see why they don't want I-1033 and do want to support the fire bond.
These three fires, if not stopped, would have had a major impact on the city's infrastructure.
You think that would be news.
There is, however, a story about a $1 bounty being paid to kill gophers in Idaho. People who live in democracies need to be informed in order to make good decisions.
These three fires, if not stopped, would have had a major impact on the city's infrastructure.
You think that would be news.
There is, however, a story about a $1 bounty being paid to kill gophers in Idaho. People who live in democracies need to be informed in order to make good decisions.
Friday, October 23, 2009
fire press release
ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1508 North Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Friday October, 23 2009 at 12:09 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines and 2 Senior Ladders responded under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius and Mike Inman to a reported apartment building fire at 1508 N Post. On the arrival of the first company they reported smoke showing from a single story apartment building which housed approximately six living units. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire and an additional engine company was added.
Ladder companies were sent to the roof and to adjoining rooms to search for, and evacuate victims; while the arriving engines established water supply from nearby hydrants and stretched hose lines to the fire. The fire was confined to the unit of origin within 15-minutes and companies spent a significant amount of time overhauling and salvaging the areas. No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the SFD's SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The unit of origin is not able to be occupied due to the damage. SFD's CARES Team and Red Cross assisted the two occupants of the unit find temporary housing and assisted in replacing personal effects. The CARES Team also assisted other residents on-site and remained on-scene to provide support.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1508 North Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Friday October, 23 2009 at 12:09 PM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines and 2 Senior Ladders responded under the direction of Battalion Chief Craig Cornelius and Mike Inman to a reported apartment building fire at 1508 N Post. On the arrival of the first company they reported smoke showing from a single story apartment building which housed approximately six living units. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire and an additional engine company was added.
Ladder companies were sent to the roof and to adjoining rooms to search for, and evacuate victims; while the arriving engines established water supply from nearby hydrants and stretched hose lines to the fire. The fire was confined to the unit of origin within 15-minutes and companies spent a significant amount of time overhauling and salvaging the areas. No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident is under investigation by the SFD's SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The unit of origin is not able to be occupied due to the damage. SFD's CARES Team and Red Cross assisted the two occupants of the unit find temporary housing and assisted in replacing personal effects. The CARES Team also assisted other residents on-site and remained on-scene to provide support.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE:
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
fire press release
ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 19 W Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Thursday June 6, 2009 at 08:51 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Dan Brown, Bruce Moline and Acting BC Haworth responded to a reported building fire at 19 West Pacific.
When the first companies arrived from Station 1, they reported heavy smoke and flames showing from the three story (includes basement) vacant building. The building had previously been involved in a tragic fire in 2006 which resulted in multiple injuries and the structure being boarded up and secured from access. The unreinforced masonry construction combined with the smoke/fire conditions and building's proximity to other occupied structures led to the alarm being upgraded to a second alarm in anticipation of a need for additional resources. Ladder Companies were utilized to gain access to the boarded up vacant structure while personnel from Engine Companies assembled to prepare for an offensive attack on the fire. The additional alarm added a Pumper-Ladder and two engines which allowed the 38 Firefighters to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident within 45-minutes. One civilian was treated by SFD Paramedics for injuries received while fleeing the fire, however was not transported. No firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary and two adults (one 26 Year-old male and one 23 year-old female) have been arrested and charged by SFD Investigators with Arson 2nd Degree.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The building was not inhabitable after the fire in 2006 and that continues to be the case. Damage is significant and access is prohibited due to the concern for public safety.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/22/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 19 W Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Thursday June 6, 2009 at 08:51 AM, 8 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 5 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Dan Brown, Bruce Moline and Acting BC Haworth responded to a reported building fire at 19 West Pacific.
When the first companies arrived from Station 1, they reported heavy smoke and flames showing from the three story (includes basement) vacant building. The building had previously been involved in a tragic fire in 2006 which resulted in multiple injuries and the structure being boarded up and secured from access. The unreinforced masonry construction combined with the smoke/fire conditions and building's proximity to other occupied structures led to the alarm being upgraded to a second alarm in anticipation of a need for additional resources. Ladder Companies were utilized to gain access to the boarded up vacant structure while personnel from Engine Companies assembled to prepare for an offensive attack on the fire. The additional alarm added a Pumper-Ladder and two engines which allowed the 38 Firefighters to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident within 45-minutes. One civilian was treated by SFD Paramedics for injuries received while fleeing the fire, however was not transported. No firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary and two adults (one 26 Year-old male and one 23 year-old female) have been arrested and charged by SFD Investigators with Arson 2nd Degree.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The building was not inhabitable after the fire in 2006 and that continues to be the case. Damage is significant and access is prohibited due to the concern for public safety.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 38
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
Saturday, October 17, 2009
fire press release
ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/17/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1404 E NORTH AVE
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Friday October 16, 2009 at 8:58 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 2 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Bob Green and Steve Sabo responded to a reported residence fire at 1404 E. North Avenue. Neighbors called 911 when they noticed smoke coming from an open door in the vacant two-story residence. When the first company arrived, they reported smoke banking down near the floor in the interior first level and believed that they had a working basement fire.
Ladder and Engine Companies worked quickly, in a coordinated effort, to attack the fire and force entry to perform a search of the two living units that made up the residence. It took 24 Firefighters just 15 minutes to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the area of origin in the basement and prevent it from spreading into floors above.
No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary (intentionally human caused). If citizens have information regarding the cause of this incident, they are encouraged to contact the SFD's Arson Tip Line at 344-FIRE.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Moderate damage is limited to the basement.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/17/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1404 E NORTH AVE
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On Friday October 16, 2009 at 8:58 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 2 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 2-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Bob Green and Steve Sabo responded to a reported residence fire at 1404 E. North Avenue. Neighbors called 911 when they noticed smoke coming from an open door in the vacant two-story residence. When the first company arrived, they reported smoke banking down near the floor in the interior first level and believed that they had a working basement fire.
Ladder and Engine Companies worked quickly, in a coordinated effort, to attack the fire and force entry to perform a search of the two living units that made up the residence. It took 24 Firefighters just 15 minutes to locate and knock down the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the area of origin in the basement and prevent it from spreading into floors above.
No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this incident was determined to be incendiary (intentionally human caused). If citizens have information regarding the cause of this incident, they are encouraged to contact the SFD's Arson Tip Line at 344-FIRE.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Moderate damage is limited to the basement.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 24
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
In Los Angeles, they have the opposite problem that we have...
Tis the season in Spokane.
Fire calls for Halloween smoke displays.
Jack-o-lantern steam/smoke.
"Cell phone caller states nonbreather laying on lawn. Patient is dressed like a scarecrow."
And on and on...
But in Los Angeles, they do things different.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Easy way to fight I-1033...
Here is a link to volunteer to make calls asking people to vote NO on I 1033.
Also, don't forget to send your letters to the editor into the Spokesman-Review.
I wrote one yesterday. We'll see if it gets published.
Don't forget to include your address and phone number so they can call to verify that you wrote the letter.
Also, don't forget to send your letters to the editor into the Spokesman-Review.
I wrote one yesterday. We'll see if it gets published.
Don't forget to include your address and phone number so they can call to verify that you wrote the letter.
Friday, October 09, 2009
fire press release
ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/9/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 206 South Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Friday October 9, 2009 at 10:38 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 3-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Ken Kirsch and Craig Cornelius responded to a reported fire in the building at 206 South Post, the Carlyle Residential Care and
Assisted Living Community.
The seven story building was originally constructed in 1892 as the Carlyle Hotel and was most recently renovated in 2003. The Carlyle now provides residential and assisted care for individuals 18 years of age and older with varying levels of mobility. The building currently has 72 furnished client rooms with occupancy of 126 residents.
When the first company arrived, they were met by facility staff which advised smoke was visible on the interior of the building in the basement area. Due to the conditions and building's high-risk occupants, the alarm was upgraded to include the balance of a second alarm-plus incident to extinguish the fire and manage the evacuation and transportation of 100% of residents and staff to the Central Methodist Church at 518 W 3rd Avenue as prescribed by the facility's disaster plan.
Initial arriving Engines were assigned to supporting the building's fire suppression system while additional Ladder and Engine Companies were utilized to gain access to the basement and locate and extinguish the fire. Other companies were spread throughout the building on multiple floors to search for occupants and to check for extension of the fire with thermal imaging cameras. It took 43 Firefighters 45 minutes to locate and extinguish the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the northeast first-floor area and basement below the fire. Two STA Transit buses were used by the command team to transport the residents to the Church's shelter.
No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident. All residents were transported in an orderly fashion and managed from a medical perspective by SFD and AMR Paramedics.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was discarded smoking materials which spread to flooring on the building's interior.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Firefighters successfully confined the fire to a 10x10 area on the first level in the flooring and small area on the exterior wall.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 50
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/9/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 206 South Post
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99201
NARRATIVE: On Friday October 9, 2009 at 10:38 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 3-Senior Ladders under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Ken Kirsch and Craig Cornelius responded to a reported fire in the building at 206 South Post, the Carlyle Residential Care and
Assisted Living Community.
The seven story building was originally constructed in 1892 as the Carlyle Hotel and was most recently renovated in 2003. The Carlyle now provides residential and assisted care for individuals 18 years of age and older with varying levels of mobility. The building currently has 72 furnished client rooms with occupancy of 126 residents.
When the first company arrived, they were met by facility staff which advised smoke was visible on the interior of the building in the basement area. Due to the conditions and building's high-risk occupants, the alarm was upgraded to include the balance of a second alarm-plus incident to extinguish the fire and manage the evacuation and transportation of 100% of residents and staff to the Central Methodist Church at 518 W 3rd Avenue as prescribed by the facility's disaster plan.
Initial arriving Engines were assigned to supporting the building's fire suppression system while additional Ladder and Engine Companies were utilized to gain access to the basement and locate and extinguish the fire. Other companies were spread throughout the building on multiple floors to search for occupants and to check for extension of the fire with thermal imaging cameras. It took 43 Firefighters 45 minutes to locate and extinguish the fire and control the incident. Firefighters were able to limit the damage to the northeast first-floor area and basement below the fire. Two STA Transit buses were used by the command team to transport the residents to the Church's shelter.
No civilians or firefighters were injured as a result of the incident. All residents were transported in an orderly fashion and managed from a medical perspective by SFD and AMR Paramedics.
PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was discarded smoking materials which spread to flooring on the building's interior.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Firefighters successfully confined the fire to a 10x10 area on the first level in the flooring and small area on the exterior wall.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 50
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
Sunday, October 04, 2009
fire press release
ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8410 Palm Pl.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On October 3, 2009 at 1047 am the Spokane Fire Department responded on a call to 8410 Palm Pl. The owner said they were using a gas fire insert and could smell wood smoke. Due to the quick thinking of the resident the gas insert was turned off and the Fire Department was called. Four Engines, a Ladder truck, a Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded. The first Engine on scene quickly extinguished the fire in an exterior wall of the structure using a 1 ¾" hose line. Additional Fire crews checked the attic for extension, checked the interior walls using a thermal imagining camera, put down tarps to minimize the damage to the inside of the home and ventilated the smoke out of the structure. Due to the quick fire attack some of the crews were able to return in service in a short period of time. A Fire Investigator was called to try and determine the cause of the fire inside a wall in the vicinity of gas fired insert. Although this fire does not appear to be caused by improper use or poor maintenance the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind residents to check their heating devices for proper operation and maintenance as we enter the heating season.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: 2 vertical structural supports were slightly damaged by fire. Exterior siding of the structure, some electrical wiring and interior sheet rock was damaged by either fire or fire crews opening up the structure to extinguish the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
DATE OF INCIDENT: 10/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 8410 Palm Pl.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP: 99208
NARRATIVE: On October 3, 2009 at 1047 am the Spokane Fire Department responded on a call to 8410 Palm Pl. The owner said they were using a gas fire insert and could smell wood smoke. Due to the quick thinking of the resident the gas insert was turned off and the Fire Department was called. Four Engines, a Ladder truck, a Rescue unit and 2 Battalion Chiefs responded. The first Engine on scene quickly extinguished the fire in an exterior wall of the structure using a 1 ¾" hose line. Additional Fire crews checked the attic for extension, checked the interior walls using a thermal imagining camera, put down tarps to minimize the damage to the inside of the home and ventilated the smoke out of the structure. Due to the quick fire attack some of the crews were able to return in service in a short period of time. A Fire Investigator was called to try and determine the cause of the fire inside a wall in the vicinity of gas fired insert. Although this fire does not appear to be caused by improper use or poor maintenance the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind residents to check their heating devices for proper operation and maintenance as we enter the heating season.
PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: 2 vertical structural supports were slightly damaged by fire. Exterior siding of the structure, some electrical wiring and interior sheet rock was damaged by either fire or fire crews opening up the structure to extinguish the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 21
MUTUAL AID: None Given
For more information on this release, please call (509)625-7002 and/or check out the SFD Blog at www.spokanefire.blogspot.com
END OF RELEASE
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