From Don Waller - A culture of safety vs. a culture of extinguishment...

An interesting video:




Wow, looks like they pulled it again. Don Waller has been chasing this thing around the Internet. Is it really that controversial here is a synopsis.

Looks like it might be back.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 726 E. 43rd
CITY: Spokane
STATE: wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 05/02/09 at approximately 1216 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to a 726 E. 43rd upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews found a commercial structure, the Rocket Market, with smoke coming from the second floor. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to the second floor to extinguish the fire, laddered the roof and ventilated the second floor, and made sure all civilians were out of the building. The fire was quickly extinguished and crews then concentrated on making sure no hidden fire was present within walls of the structure. The fire was under control within approximately 15 minutes with SFD crews remaining on scene another 90 minutes conducting overhaul operations.

A total of 22 firefighters on eight apparatus fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For more information on the cause of this fire contact Steve Jones of The Special investigation Unit at 625-7057.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was confined to a small, second floor, office area. This is the only area that had significant fire damage. Damage to other areas of the building was confined to a small amount of water damage on the first floor directly below the fire area. Smoke damage on the first floor was also minimal.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
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

SSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 5/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 726 E. 43rd
CITY: Spokane
STATE: wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 05/02/09 at approximately 1216 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to a 726 E. 43rd upon report of a structure fire. First arriving crews found a commercial structure, the Rocket Market, with smoke coming from the second floor. Firefighters advanced pre-connected hose-lines to the second floor to extinguish the fire, laddered the roof and ventilated the second floor, and made sure all civilians were out of the building. The fire was quickly extinguished and crews then concentrated on making sure no hidden fire was present within walls of the structure. The fire was under control within approximately 15 minutes with SFD crews remaining on scene another 90 minutes conducting overhaul operations.

A total of 22 firefighters on eight apparatus fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For more information on the cause of this fire contact Steve Jones of The Special investigation Unit at 625-7057.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The fire was confined to a small, second floor, office area. This is the only area that had significant fire damage. Damage to other areas of the building was confined to a small amount of water damage on the first floor directly below the fire area. Smoke damage on the first floor was also minimal.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
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

Last Call Bloomsday

Last call for our Bloomsday water station...

If you haven't come down before or have other plans, cancel them and come help out.

We really need to support this event with a shown of force. KZZU 92.9 has agreed to give us PR/ads the week leading up to the event, they'll start tomorrow.

• I'm looking for a couple volunteers that would be willing to go on the Dave, Ken and Molly in the morning show to help promote the event this next week as your E-board is in Yakima attending educational classes.
• I also still need someone willing to take care of an Engine for the event (bring it down, take it back).

We have purchased two large banners promoting who we are, and have the radio station DJ's on site telling the runners who is supporting them. I let the promoters know this year we can handle our own station without the help of ShopKo, Walmart, or whoever else is always wanting in, so lets take charge of our own water station.

We will have shirts there for you to wear, other than that I usually wear warm-up pants over my shorts and comfortable sneakers.

After set-up, the peak of the work is between about 10am and noon or so, if you can show up for a couple hours or come back after running the race for a bit, great.

Every year there is a core group of about 25 people that come and work their butts off and go home exhausted - we really need 60-75 people to work this station.

Sun May 3rd 7am Broadway/Nettleton

Thanks - Thad 9A

251-6336 cell

Fire Press Release - Two Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2727 E. 53rd Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99203

NARRATIVE: At 6:30 PM Thursday, April 23rd, the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported apartment fire in the Biltmore Apartments at 2727 E. 53rd Ave, on Spokane's south hill. The first engine company to arrive on-scene reported smoke from a second floor apartment in the three story wood frame Building D, of the complex. As the fire attack crews advance hoses into the apartment to locate and extinguish the fire, other fire crews searched the fire apartment for possible victims. The fire was quickly knocked down. No human victims were found, however, a pet cat succumbed to the heat and smoke. Surrounding apartment units were evacuated and checked for fire extension. Although the fire was contained to the apartment of origin, three other apartments received varying degrees of smoke and water damage. The apartment of origin received heavy smoke, heat, and water damage. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters at this fire. Occupants of the affected apartments will be displaced until repairs can be made to their units. In all, seven fire companies with 21 firefighters responded to this fire. They were on-scene for several hours.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of this fire is under investigation by SFD's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Total damage to Building D of this complex and the contents is estimated to be over $30000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/ Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2519 West Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Friday April 24th, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 8:50 PM to 2519 West Dean on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported fire showing from a window on the east side of the home with possible fire extension into the house next door. An aggressive interior attack by on scene fire crews confined the majority of the fire to the bathroom and attic with heat and smoke damage through out the structure. The fire was brought under control with in 30 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Spokane Fire Investigator Captain Kevin Smathers and he can be contacted at 625-7052
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the main floor with heat and smoke damage through out the residence.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 30
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 - Two Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/21/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4606 N. Monroe
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, April 21st, 2009 at 10:36 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire located at 4606 N. Monroe. Pumper ladder 13, the first arriving fire company, sized up the situation and discovered a fire inside of a 1 ½ story wood frame home. A preliminary report was received indicating that the occupants were all out of the home but another separate report from a neighbor stated otherwise. As a part of routine procedure, a "search group" was created and deployed to the interior of the home with the focus on searching sleeping areas as a priority. As areas were being searched, a simultaneous fire attack with hose lines, and ventilation by opening windows, were conducted. Fortunately, the search effort did not reveal any victims. The fire was contained after 15 minutes and was confined to the main floor near the stairway leading up to the bedrooms. Overhaul work began and involved searching for and digging out hot embers that remained within the void areas of the home. The cause of this fire is undetermined at this time and is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. 24 firefighters responded on this call. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to the hallway ceiling, walls, floor and contents. Smoke damage throughout the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 20,000
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/22/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3728 E. Cleveland
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99217

NARRATIVE: Early Wednesday morning, April 22nd 2009 at 1:10 A.M., the Spokane Fire Department responded 4 engine companies, 1 ladder company, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a structure fire at 3728 E. Cleveland. First arriving fire crews found a detached garage with fire inside. An aggressive interior attack was made using two hose lines, and at the same time, a rapid primary search was conducted to determine if anyone remained inside. After a quick knockdown of the flames was completed, ventilation was started to clear the atmosphere of hazardous smoke. The fire was confined to a corner of the garage and as a result, damage and flame spread were kept to a minimum and the dwelling next door was spared. No one was at home in the dwelling during this incident. The Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit was summoned to the scene to help in determining the cause of the fire. Many of the same fire crews, along with the SIU, had been on a house fire an hour earlier on north Monroe Street. It was a busy night for investigators and fire crews. The two fires appear to be unrelated at this time. There were 19 firefighters that responded to this fire call and there were no injuries. The fire was called in by alert neighbors who noticed smoke coming from the garage. The structure sustained minor heat damage, and there was some smoke and heat damage to contents.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Undetermined at this time. Under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Minor heat damage to the structure. Minor to Moderate heat and smoke damage to contents.
DOLLAR LOSS: 3,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 19
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

New shirts. New look!

Hey, anybody else notice how much tighter our new shirts are? This picture shows the new shirt (L) on top of the old shirt (L). The name has been blocked to protect my the wearer's identity.

I'm not complaining that they are about 3 inches narrower and the shoulders have more slope. On the contrary, I think this will be a good incentive to keep exercising, eat right and do a lot of push-ups between runs.

The tightness of the shirt also gives the wearer a Batman/Superman/Spiderman feeling of spandex superhero invincibility.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/16/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2317 West Dean
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Thursday April 16, 2009 at 7:32 AM, 6 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 3 Engines, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder and 1 Heavy Rescue under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Fielder and Kirsch responded to a reported residence fire at 2317 West Dean Avenue in the City's West Central Neighborhood. A resident on the second floor of a two-story home contacted Fire dispatchers via 911 at and reported that the upstairs was full of smoke and there was a fire. She told dispatchers that she was unable to get out via the bedroom door and was going to try and make it through the smoke to the balcony. While a first-alarm assignment was being dispatch, a second 911 call was received from the son on his cell phone calling from the first floor. The son was reporting heavy smoke and a large amount of heat from the second floor and that his attempts to get to the stairs in a rescue effort for his mother were prevented due to the heat.

The neighborhood fire company, Engine 3, arrived within five-minutes and reported smoke showing from the two-story house and they notified other companies responding that there was a victim visible on the second floor. Engine 3 stretched pre-connected hose lines up to the second floor with four firefighters to attack the fire and confine it in order to protect the victim. Simultaneously, Ladder 4 arrived and placed ground Ladders to the victim and successfully rescued the 51 year-old female. Other companies arrived and backed up the initial attack crew and extinguished the fire in the adjoining areas while searching for other possible victims. The fire was controlled in just fifteen minutes with all of the assigned resourced working hard. They were successful in confining the fire to the second floor and limiting spread into the roof/attic and first floor areas of the structure.

The female resident was treated by Spokane Fire Department Paramedics and subsequently transported by AMR to Deaconess urgently. At last report the victim was in stable condition. Spokane Firefighters also were able to rescue the family's pet dog which is doing fine.

The outcome of this incident reinforces the importance of Fire Department staffing, adequate training and commitment to sustaining and improving the level of service. In a Fire/EMS deployment system, time is of the essence; and the life saved today is a perfect example of the components of the system coming together for a successful outcome.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Fire Department's SIU. The likely cause appears to be improperly discarded smoking materials. A formal cause will be issued when the investigation is concluded.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the second floor contents are significant.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40000

We are gearing up to host our SFD Bloomsday water station..

your help is needed to make this a successful year


Sun May 3 7am

Broadway and Nettleton

I need someone willing to bring down a spare engine


Bloomsday is looking up to be a record breaking year with applicants up 28% as of our last update. Spokane Firefighters have sponsored the 4th water/aid station along the Bloomsday course about the last 17 years, it is one of the few events we have to get out and support a great community event - somewhere between 40-50k participants run, jog, or walk the course. While many participants travel in from out of town the vast majority are Spokane area residents. We have a couple of sponsors this year: Wake up call coffee and Mike's Old Fashioned donuts have graciously donated our morning treats. Spouses and kids are encouraged to come help out. T-shirts are provided and SFD members receive a 1/4 point. The event can last up to about 2pm by the time we are cleaned up and gone but there is not a specific time commitment or expectation, come on down and go when you gotta go. Please bring a snow shovel (I know you haven't put them away yet) and leaf rake if you got one. Give me a call with questions.


Thanks,


Thad 9A

251-6336

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: AC Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 4/8/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 7010 N COLTON & 5302 E TRENT AVE-CS
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: All of Spokane Fire Department's on-duty companies were assigned today to multiple near-simultaneous events this afternoon. A first-alarm assignment was sent at 2:12 PM for smoke in the Burlington Northern building located at 5302 East Trent in far East Spokane. When companies arrived, the building was being evacuated as individuals reported smoke present on the interior. As additional companies arrived on the Trent Incident and investigated the situation, a second serious incident was dispatched at 2:25 PM on the far North side of Spokane at 7010 North Colton (Autumn Ridge Apartments) for a fire in an apartment. These two incidents along with another call had all of the on-duty companies committed for period of time.



PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the initial incident at 5302 East Trent resulted from a problem in boiler which caused over-pressurization and steam inside the building. It took firefighters an extended period to control the building's utilities thus preventing additional problems from the boiler.

The cause of the second incident at 7010 North Colton was accidental in nature and involved discarded ashes, however resulted in damage to various areas in the apartment's exterior walls and the unit's interior.

DAMAGE EXTENT: On the Trent Incident, damage is minor and repairable. The second incident (7010 N Colton) involves cosmetic damage to the structure and some contents. The occupant at the time of the fire was treated by SFD Paramedics for second degree burns and has been transported to a local hospital.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 58
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

This month's Local 29 Bullseye Safety Science video... Back to basics- Germs...

As usual, a certificate will be emailed to you upon completion.

Nice stair-climb article in the Spokesman-Review this morning.

Congrats to all of you who participated in this event. Great job!

Beautiful Rescue Music VIdeo

Bathtub IV from Keith Loutit on Vimeo.

This music video is more of a water rescue / air rescue story, but I found it to be very evocative.

We're fortunate that we get to live this life and get to be "rescuers" to make our livings. At least, that's what I think. Maybe after watching this video, you might feel the same. If you want to learn more about the video, here's a link.

Note from Doug Bacon

For those of you who were unable to attend Lori’s memorial service, I’ve attached a copy of the funeral program.

I believe it was a very nice service. The pastor told us he estimated the attendance at 1000 people, maybe more. Which shows what both Lori and Mike mean to a lot of people.

Most of us have been affected by the loss of a loved one, it is never easy. I think how badly I feel and then realize that I haven’t any idea how Mike feels.

Mike, Duke & I are so very glad that we have you. It is comforting to know that we have this giant extended family to support us in this.

On behalf of Mike and his family, I would like to make sure that all of you know how overwhelming your encouragement means to him and all of his family.

Camaraderie & support is the foundation of the fire service, and these thoughts of support from you reinforce that.

Doug

Interesting article from Gonzo

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/15/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1634 N Holliston Road
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. dispatched fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 1634 N. Holliston Road at 11:25 PM on Saturday, March 14th, to a reported structure fire. Initially one Fire Company was dispatched to investigate a reported possible chimney fire at this address. Once that fire crew was on scene they noticed visible flames burning on the roof near the chimney of the 2 story wood/frame dwelling and immediately requested a full alarm to respond. While other apparatus were in route to this incident the on-scene crew began to stretch hose lines, don their SCBAs, and do the other tasks required prior to making entry into the building. Once some of the additional companies began arriving on scene, entry was made into the interior of the structure to determine the extent of the problem and to locate the source of the fire. As the remaining fire crews began arriving on scene, assignments were given to put ladders to the house for access to the roof, search the building for any possible victims, ventilate the house, put additional hose lines into the structure for fire suppression and to back-up the crew already inside, and to shut off the gas supply and shut down the electrical circuits in the house. Quick action and aggressive fire fighting techniques, both inside the structure and outside on the roof, resulted in a rapid knock down of the fire which prevented more serious damage to the house. All occupants of the structure were able to exit the building prior to Fire Dept. arrival. The occupants are a family of four who lived on the main floor of the building, the upper floor has been converted to an apartment and that tenant was not at home at the time of the fire. The Red Cross is assisting the family with temporary lodging and the apartment tenant was going to be staying with family until the structure can be repaired. There were no reports of any injuries to the firefighters or to the displaced family. Damage to the house was substantial on the first and second floors and to the roof area around the chimney. There was some water and smoke damage in addition to the fire damage. Members of the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit arrived on scene as the fire fighting work was starting to wind down and began their investigation into the cause of this fire. Further investigation is scheduled to continue on Sunday as their work is made much easier by the light of day. Twenty three fire fighters were delivered to this incident on 6 pieces of fire fighting apparatus, 2 Command vehicles, and 1 fire investigation truck.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Currently under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Heavy fire damage to the roof area around the chimney; moderate fire, water, and smoke damage to the upper floor apartment, moderate fire, water, and smoke damage to the ground floor's living room especially the ceiling and the walls surrounding the fire place.

DOLLAR LOSS: 25,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
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

From Doug Bacon...

First, if I missed anyone, please pass this on.

Second, thank all of you for the support. I know I speak for Mike & Duke when I say this. I've seen how the SFD supports it's members in a crises and I'm never disappointed by the participation of it's members.

For anyone wanting to bring food to the memorial service. We are going by last name: A-G, bring a hot dish, H-T, bring a cold dish & U-Z, bring a dessert. I wasn't going to specify because I was hoping that everyone would bring brownies'. How bad could that be? If you want to send food to Mike because you know he can't cook, why not just invite him over for dinner sometime. I think he will appreciate anything that is done. I don't know if the shock of losing the light of your life ever goes away, so we just need to be there for him.

If you know Lori, enough said. If you didn't know Lori, you lost a chance to meet a very special lady. Even if she wasn't my "favorite" Sister-In-Law she would have touched my heart forever. To say she will be missed by many is an understatement!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks again and I hope to see as many of you as I can to thank you personally!!!

Doug

Assistance for the Bacon Family

Please check your departmental email on a message from Craig Cornelius on ways you can help Mike and his family during this terrible time. I would put it here, but this is a public forum. Here are some contacts who are handling all assistance to Mike:

Rusty Stewart Station 1
Darryl Wisniewski Station 4
Tim Foster Station 1
Mark Vietzke Station 4
Greg Borg Station 3
Mike Thompson Station 1
DJ Hill Station 1
Todd Graves Station 1

Funeral Services for Lori Bacon

Funeral Services for Lori Bacon will be Saturday March 14th at Faith Bible Church at 600 W Cora at
1:00 p.m.

MARCH UNION MEETING CANCELLED OR POSTPONED.

I have been requested to ask you to direct any questions that you may have regarding this morning's very bad news to any e-board member. Mike, Greg and Mark are unavailable at the hospital. I will keep you posted as directed.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 3/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3914 W. Longfellow Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 0511 this morning, Tuesday, March 3rd, the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 3914 W. Longfellow Ave. Upon arrival, the first crew found a single family, one story house with light smoke coming from the eves of the roof, and light smoke on the main floor. The occupants reported that they experienced electrical problems in the kitchen last evening, and noticed a slight odor of smoke this morning. Thermal imaging cameras were used to locate the source of the smoke, which was in the kitchen ceiling and the upper portion of several walls in that area. As other crews arrived they assisted in opening up the walls and ceiling to expose and extinguish the fire. The fire had likely been burning in the attic insulation all night, and several ceiling joists had burned completely through. The occupants had an operating smoke detector, but it did not activate because the smoke was mostly confined to the attic. While there was minimal smoke or heat damage to the living area of the house, significant repairs will need to be made to the walls and ceiling in the kitchen and dining room due to the fire mitigation actions. The electrical wiring in those areas was also damaged. The four adult occupants of the house will be unable to stay there until repairs are made. The Red Cross is assisting them with temporary accommodations.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire was determined to be malfunctioning electrical wiring in the attic, which ignited insulation and wood framing members.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the structure and wiring is estimated to be $10,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10000
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

FDM additions poll results.

Results for: "What malady would you like to see added to the FDM Reporting System?":

The winner is "fatfold hidden confection."

In the "other" category, were: "DTV Transition Problem" and "caller thinks (using telepathy) that someone in another apt. unit needs help."


Feet stuck to floor 1 (6%)

Itchy elbows 2 (12%)

Bad television reception0 (0%)

Can't find car keys (0%)

Just wanted to say "hi" 1 (6%)

Remote control missing 1 (6%)

Fatfold hidden confection 3 (18%)

Cold (common) 0 (0%)

Insane Clown Posse-itus 2 (12%)

Cat stuck in pants 2 (12%)

Other (email me your answer or put it in the comments) 4 (25%)

Local 29 Podcast #1

An interview with one of our own, with a one of a kind story. This a Local 29 Blog exclusive.

Can you imagine the Lessons Learned write-up for this?

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/21/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1221 N. Monroe
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: At 1143 pm February 21, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department was dispatched on a report of smoke coming from the roof of a building. The first fire crews on scene were Engine 3 and the North side Battalion Chief who saw a significant amount of smoke coming from what appeared to be the roof of a 3 story apartment building. As other fire crews arrived they went to the opposite side of the building and reported seeing fire in one room on the 3rd floor. At about the same time Engine 3 made entry to the 3rd floor from the inside and reported heavy smoke and heat conditions. The North side Battalion Chief requested the incident be upgraded to a working fire. When a second Battalion Chief arrived on scene and went to the back of the building it was decided to upgrade the fire to a 2nd alarm due to the fire on the 3rd floor and the potential number of people in the building. Crews were immediately assigned to search the building for occupants, attack the fire, ventilate the smoke and heat and set up a rapid intervention team in case anyone was to get trapped inside. Engine 3 was the first fire crew into the room on fire and did an aggressive attack with a 1 ¾" attack line. This knocked the main body of the fire down then the efforts of the Firefighters were directed to making sure the fire did not extend beyond the room of origin. Red Cross was called to assist approximately 20 displaced residents because the gas was shut off to the building for safety purposes while the fire was being extinguished so there was no heat in the building. In all 42 Firefighters were called to the scene with over half of the available fire crews in the city dedicated to the fire. AMR, American Medical Response ambulance company is based across the street from the apartment building and AMR opened up there building to shelter the displaced residents and give Red Cross a place to meet with the residents. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Under investigation
DAMAGE EXTENT: Confined to one apartment on the 3rd floor with smoke throughout the 3rd floor.
DOLLAR LOSS: 5000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 42
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: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/18/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2112 W Sinto
CITY: Spokane
STATE: W
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department responded fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 2112 W Sinto at 1:11 in the afternoon on Wednesday, Feb. 18th, for a reported structure fire. Additional information provided by Fire Dept. Dispatchers to the responding fire companies included reports from 9-1-1 callers that they could see smoke coming from the roof area of the house. The first arriving fire company radioed that there was indeed smoke showing from the roof and vents of a single story wood/frame dwelling and that they were going to attempt to make entry into the structure to investigate for the source of the smoke. Later arriving fire companies were assigned various tasks which included securing a water supply, forcible entry, ventilation (both vertical and horizontal), search and rescue, back-up fire leads, and scene safety. The fire fighting crews inside the residence were able to gain access into the attic space by pulling ceilings and found the well hidden fire smoldering in the attic insulation. Crews on the roof cut a large ventilation hole in the roof over the suspected area of attic involvement and assisted in the extinguishment. Search and recue efforts determined that there was no one in the house at the time of the fire. Once the main fire was discovered and extinguished the fire crews at the scene began the labor intensive job of digging out and removing the blown-in insulation to insure that all the smoldering material was extinguished and removed from the interior of the structure. There were no reports of any injuries to civilians or to the fire fighters. Investigators from the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit responded to the scene and began their investigation into the cause of this fire. Preliminary investigation is centering on the old wiring system which supplies electrical power to the building. Damage to the dwelling was confined to the ceilings in the kitchen, dining, and living room; the attic space over those affected rooms, and of course the rear area of the roof.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Currently under investigation with preliminary indications centering on the electrical system and the wiring in that system.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Ceilings in the living room, dining room, and kitchen; the attic spaces over those affected rooms; the back portion of the house's roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
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

PET CPR - for man's best friend and family.

CARTNE

The box marked "other"..

Received word from a brother of a call they went on yesterday - someone having problems with their digital converter box. Yep. I think that can go under TV reception, but how about that? Stand by for more of those calls. I guess we're the Geek Squad!

It probably came in as "difficulty seeing."

New Poll Added to sidebar

What malady would you like to see added to the FDM Reporting System?

As usual, email me or leave comments here, if you don't see an answer that works for you.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Mike Inman / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/14/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Information
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1218 E. Rich
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported house fire in the early morning hours of February 14, 2009 only to find light smoke in the residence and the owner very agitated. The damage was minor confined to the light smoke in the house. The cause is of concern and that was a discarded cigarette into the trash. Fortunately the resident of the house was awake and noticed the small fire in the kitchen area then called the Fire Department. Her smoke detector was on the kitchen table without a battery as she had not been able to get to the store to replace the battery. The Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public of the dangers of improperly discarded smoking materials as well as not maintaining a working smoke detector in the house. The damage was minor in this incident and nobody was injured but that is not always the case with improper disposal of cigarettes and or not maintaining working smoke detectors. The Fire Department did ventilate the house and put a new battery in the smoke detector prior to leaving the scene.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Cigarette
DAMAGE EXTENT: Very minor. Just a light smoke in the house
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

MORE EMS IN THE MOVIES! CPR!!

This time from Hang 'em High starring Clint Eastwood. This is a great movie with a lot of philosophical food for thought (along with some great fights, gunplay, etc.) If you haven's seen this movie, there is a bit of a spoiler if you watch this clip. But then again, it's been out for 41 years so if you haven't seen it yet...

Knowing how the American Heart Association keeps changing things, maybe this protocol will come back. I hope not.

If you find any other FIRE or EMS related movie scenes on the internet, send them my way.

Attention Clothing Committee - Looks like it's the Snuggie!

SFD Ninja Cloak 1 (4%)

SFD Ascot 4 (17%)

SFD Riding Crop 2 (8%)

SFD Snuggie 7 (30%)

SFD Codpiece 2 (8%)

SFD Spats 0 (0%)

SFD EMS Monocle 3 (13%)

SFD Fez 0 (0%)

SFD Smoking Jacket 4 (17%)


Will be a little while for the next questionnaire. But, I could use some help. The survey will ask "what codes would you like to see on the FDM that aren't on it right now?" An example might be: "637 Pants/Suspender entanglement - not life threatening."
I only ask that when you submit your entry that you remember the public (including the media and city council) read the blog too. So mail them into me!

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/11/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1737 E Sanson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Department dispatched fire crews and their apparatus to 1737 E. Sanson at 12:09 in the very early morning on Wednesday, Feb 11th, for a reported structure fire. The first arriving fire crew reported heavy smoke coming from the roof and eaves of a single story wood/frame dwelling and radioed their intent to enter the structure with a charged fire lead in an attempt to locate the fire and extinguish it. As the other incoming fire apparatus were approaching the scene, the Incident Commander began making assignments to them that included search and rescue, additional fire hose leads, ventilation (both horizontal and vertical), water supply, and fire scene safety. The crews inside the structure reported heavy smoke conditions which hampered their progress somewhat as they struggled against the heat and smoke. They were finally able to get to the back bedroom where the fire is believed to have originated and, once there, got a fairly quick knockdown of the fire. There were no reported injuries to the fire fighters or to the tenants. Early discovery of the fire by one of the tenants, especially because of the time of the night, contributed to their successful escape from the house at a time when conditions inside were rapidly becoming critical. The house sustained very serious smoke damage throughout as the thick, black smoke that was present inside covered nearly all of the contents in the structure. The bedroom where the fire originated was completely destroyed and a good-sized hole had been cut in the roof of the house to allow the pent-up heat and toxic by-products of combustion out of the building. Ceilings were pulled and walls were opened up inside the building to allow the fire fighters to be able to fully extinguish any stubborn hot spots that were still burning. Investigators from the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit were on the scene trying to determine the cause of this early morning fire and at the time of this report no conclusions have been reached.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Dept.'s SIU.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Severe fire damage to the bedroom of origin, heavy fire and collateral damage to other areas of the buiding, and severe smoke damage to the entire interior and contents of the structure.
DOLLAR LOSS: 50,000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
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

No newsletter yet.

Greg still hasn't turned in his article, so there is no newsletter yet for February. Tonight is the union meeting.

Gallery of Australian Fire Pictures...

Click to view.

Ninety-Six Dead Now. Thoughts with firefighters and families in Australia...

There are, according to the ISP logs, many in Australia who check out the Local 29 Blog. Please accept our thoughts and prayers for you and your families as you deal with these devastating fires. Maybe there is more we can do than that. I don't know.

Firefighters, you are doing a fantastic job against very terrible odds. Know that your brother and sister firefighters in Spokane are cheering you on. That seems like a lame thing to say without any action to back it up. Any ideas out there?

STAIRCLIMB NEEDS YOU!

Luckily, for most of us it's too late to register. Phew. However, you can still participate by making a donation to a team or one of your buddies.



Click here to sponsor an individual or a team.

Fire Press Release - Two Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Steve Sabo
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/2/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1206 S. "F" Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: At 6:50 PM this evening, Monday, February 02, 2009, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a reported shed fire at 1206 S. "F" Street. Upon arrival the first fire crews reported a detached 12'X18' storage building heavily involved in fire. Siding on the main house at that address, which was less than 20' away from the storage building, was smoking and near ignition from the radiant heat. Fire crews applied water to the house and checked the inside for any fire extension as other crews simultaneously attacked and extinguished the fire in the storage building. During their investigation of the house one of the crews located the occupant, who reported he had received burns from the fire. The victim, an adult male, was working on his motorcycle in the storage building when gasoline vapors were ignited by a kerosene heater used to heat the building. The victim sustained second degree burns to both hands and first degree burns to his face prior to escaping the burning building. He was treated at the scene by Spokane Fire Department paramedics and transported by ambulance to Deaconess Medical Center. His injuries are not considered life threatening.

PROBABLE CAUSE: As was noted, the cause of the fire was accidental ignition of gasoline vapors inside the storage building.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage was confined to a total loss of the storage building and its contents, as well as minor damage to trim and siding on the house at this address.
DOLLAR LOSS: 40000
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 2/3/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1607 West Nora
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday February 3, the Spokane Fire Department responded at approximately 7:52 AM to 1607 West Nora on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported light smoke coming from the back of a 1-1/2-story, wood framed house. An aggressive interior attack by on scene fire crews confined the majority of the fire to a bedroom in the basement with smoke damage through out the structure. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is under investigation by Spokane Fire Investigator Jason Reser and he can be contacted at 625-7051.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire damage was confined to the basement with smoke damage through out the residence
DOLLAR LOSS:
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

CARTNE Removed (for a while).

For those of you who never got the chance to see CARTNE, I apologize. It has been removed from YouTube. There was nothing derogatory about the SFD, the city, Local 29 or anything objectionable in this video whatsoever. So what made one person complain? And why do we all bend to the whim of a single person? After his first complaint, I went through the video and took out any references to SFD or Spokane, but that wasn't good enough. It's not about the video.

This person has a problem with me. I could post anything and this fellow would have a problem with it. If it is who I think it is, I have invited him to discuss his problem with me, but the person that he is, he has declined. Whomever he is, he would rather work behind the scenes to destroy what others create than to do anything productive himself. It is an affront to him that anyone would care enough to actually do some work on their day off to give something back to others. Oh well, having to live inside his skin is punishment enough for him.

This person is not in the upper echelons of our department. He is not a chief.

He is just a sad little man (whomever he is). CARTNE will be back. It's just going to take a little longer this time. But, you can't let the cowards, the sadsacks, the haters win!

Pebbles and BamBam sang it best:

EMS in the movies! The Report!

Been enjoying old westerns this winter - a lot! I think many of the themes I find in these movies resonate with me.

Anyway, here is a short clip from Lonely are the Brave starring Kirk Douglas. It's near the end, so if you don't want to know the ending of the movie, don't watch the clip!

It made me laugh. Have things changed?

Official Spokane Fire Department YouTube Site...

Dean Pearcy has put together some great videos over the past few years. Take a gander and you might see yourself in action! Here is his 2007 year in review. Looking forward to 2008's.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/31/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 911 W. Jackson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On January 31st, 2009 at 5:09 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 7 apparatus and 2 battalion chiefs to a structure fire located at 911 W. Jackson. Firefighters discovered a well advanced fire in the basement of a home with a report that there may have been an explosion accompanying the fire. Crews used a transitional approach and first knocked down what fire they could through an available exterior basement window. At the same time, the natural gas was turned off and ladder crews began their search and ventilation duties. It was found that the occupants were not at home, however two dogs were successfully rescued and safely taken outside. Hose line crews on the inside with help from roof crews cutting holes to ventilate were able to knock down the basement fire after approximately 15 minutes and as they began to check for hidden hot spots throughout the building, they also discovered a python snake, a boa constrictor, a tortoise and a Nile monitor lizard. All were caged and unharmed but due to the special nature of this situation, arrangements for transportation for these exotic animals proved challenging but eventually Spokanimal arrived to transport the animals to a warmer and safer place. Close examination of the structure revealed that there was a concussion which disrupted a portion of the concrete foundation and walls. The fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. Crews will remain at the home throughout the night and early morning hours finishing their job looking for hidden pockets of fire that could remain in the floors, walls and roof areas. There were no injuries to firefighters. The Red Cross is in contact with the family and is assisting them with their displacement.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown at this time. Currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wood frame home received extensive heat, smoke and water damage throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
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

POLL RESULTS ARE IN

How should the SFD decide who gets the new engines?

Busier engine companies get the new engines.

11 (44%)

Slower engine companies get the new engines.

2 (8%)

In an arbitrary or random fashion.

2 (8%)

Rap song contest.

1 (4%)

Crews that look the best get the best.

3 (12%)

None of the above (email Bill Foss with your answer and he will post it).

0 (0%)
Magic 8 Ball.

6 (24%)

This month's Local 29 Bullseye Safety Science video...

After doing this assignment, if you need a certificate, let me know...

WAY TO GO STICKBOY!!!

NEWSLETTER DEADLINE - FEB 4

I try to get the newsletter out the day before our next union meeting. So the deadline is always about a week before the meeting. Please email me with any articles, opinions or pictures you want published.

Thanks, John

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/29/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1107 W. Carlisle
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. Dispatch Center received a call at 10:34 in the morning on Thursday, Jan. 29th, reporting that there was smoke coming from a house located at 1107 W. Carlisle. After gathering all pertinent information from the caller, the Dispatcher sent fire fighting crews and their apparatus responding to this address for a possible house fire. The first fire crew to arrive on scene reported heavy smoke issuing from under the eaves and coming out of the roof. That first arriving Officer made assignments to the other incoming crews by radio and then proceeded to make entry into the building in an effort to determine not only the cause of the smoke but also to determine where it was coming from. As the other responding crews arrived on scene they began to go about completing their pre-assigned tasks of search and rescue, fire attack, ventilation (both vertical and horizontal), and laddering the building. The fire posed some initial problems to the fire crews in that it was burning in the confined spaces of the building and spreading into the attic and the under-side of the roof assembly. In order to find the fire, firefighters used power saws, pike poles, axes, and other hand tools to dig this stubborn fire out from the walls and ceilings. As this "opening-up" proceeded, crews were finally able to get water on the fire and get a pretty good knock down on it. There were two adults in the home at the time of the fire that were able to escape with a pet dog, the family cat was not located but it is hoped that he used one of his nine lives and escaped successfully. The two children who live at the home were at school. There were no reports of any injuries to the tenants or to the fire fighters at the incident. Red Cross was requested to the scene to assist the family since damage to the interior of the house and to the structural members of the roof was considerable and extensive repairs will need to be completed before anyone will be allowed to live in the structure. Avista was notified and responded to pull the electrical supply to the house because many of the electrical circuits were severely damaged. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by members of the Spokane City Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit. Preliminary indications point to the fireplace and the structural support members of the building that were in direct contact with the brick and mortar of that fireplace, a fairly common construction practice in older homes of this area. Seven pieces of fire apparatus and two Command Vehicles delivered 25 fire fighters to this morning fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Old, dry, wooden structrural components being in direct contact with the brick and mortar of an older masonary fireplace which has been used to augment the other heating systems of the building.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The walls, ceilings, floors, and a closet that were near the chimney, which was centrally located in the house, received heavy damage. The attic and especially the under-side of the roof system sustained severe damage. Smoke damage to the contents was kept to a minimum since most of the smoke traveled upward through the attic and out the roof.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
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: Craig Cornelius / Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/28/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3503 E. 36th Ave
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99201

NARRATIVE: On Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 1:55PM the Spokane Fire Department dispatched a full alarm consisting of 6 fire apparatus and 2 chief officers to a reported house fire located at 3503 E. 36th Ave. The first arriving company, E14 under the direction of Lt. John Trautman arrived at the scene within 5 minutes of being dispatched.

The initial report from Lt. Trautman was that the home had fire on its rear side and that the fire had possibly entered the rear portion of the home. Engine 14s crew immediately stretched pre-connected hose lines to extinguish the fire. Simultaneously, other crews searched and verified that the home was not occupied. The main body of the fire was knocked down within 5 minutes. Crews were on the scene for a couple of hours making sure the fire was out.

Firefighters found 3 dogs inside the home and several cats. All of the animals are in good condition and have been reconnected with their owners.

There were no injuries at this incident. Damage was confined to the rear of the home and a portion of the kitchen. The cause of this fire is still under investigation, but does not appear to be suspicious at this time.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is still under investigation.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Rear of home and kitchen.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
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

Photo Album

There's a new icon on the sidebar that will feature pictures that you send in to me. We'll see if anybody does.

billfoss@comcast.net

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Joel Fielder/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/27/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4203 North Calispel
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: - This morning, the Spokane Fire Department responded at 12:53 AM to 4203 North Calispel on a reported structure fire. The first crew on-scene reported light smoke showing from the front door of a 1-story, house. Further investigation by the on scene fire crews found fire burning within a wall next to a brick fire place. The fire crews gained access to the wall and quickly extinguished the fire. Fire damage was confined to the wall only with no fire extension into the attic. The fire was brought under control within 10 minutes and there were no reported injuries to firefighters.

The two occupants of the house were asleep at the time of the fire and were alerted by the sounding of their smoke detector as the house was filling up with smoke. The Spokane Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to express the well known fact that properly working smoke detectors do save lives.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire was caused by combustible, structural framing members that supported the brick chimney igniting from the heat of the fire place
DAMAGE EXTENT: Fire Damage was confined to an interior wall and the brick fireplace
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 22
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: Battalion Chief Mike Inman
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/25/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4103 W. Sanson
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: At 3 am January 25, 2009 the Spokane Fire Department dispatched 6 fire apparatus and 2 Battalion Chiefs to a reported house fire across the street from 4108 W. Sanson in Spokane, Washington. Engine 16 was the first fire crew on scene. They arrived very quickly as their Fire Station is less than a mile from the incident. Upon arrival Engine 16 reported the basement of a split level house at 4103 W. Sanson fully involved and upgraded the fire to a working fire requesting an additional Engine Company and a fire investigator. A rapid fire attack by Engine 16 was started and their efforts stopped the spread of the fire. The crew advanced the hose line through the house for further fire attack and extinguishing hot spots. The next apparatus on scene was Pumper Ladder 13 and they backed up Engine 16 as well as beginning a search of the house for anyone still inside. Additional crews arrived to assist with water supply from a nearby hydrant, ventilation of heat and smoke from the house and a safety backup team. The fire was quickly brought under control, no residents were still inside but 3 pets did not make it out. Two cats and a bird died in the fire. The residents were asked if they were awaken by their smoke detectors but said they were not as they did not have batteries in them. There were no injuries to civilians or Firefighters, Red Cross was called for the displaced 4 residents, Spokanimal was called for the deceased pets and AVISTA to disconnect electrical and gas services to the burned structure. 26 Firefighters responded on 4 fire Engines, 1 ladder truck, 1 pumper ladder, 1 rescue unit and 2 staff vehicles. The fire is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department. At this time the Spokane Fire Department would like to remind the public to make sure their smoke detectors are operational and change the batteries at least twice a year. Do not count on someone smelling smoke and waking up as this is not a reliable way to alert the occupants of a home to fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Unknown. It is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Dept.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Extensive fire damage to the room of origin with heavy heat and smoke damage throughout the house.
DOLLAR LOSS:
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 26
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

Survey results and new survey...

In the survey "Which shift is serving and protecting the most excellently?," A Shift won in a landslide. Congrats. Your commitment to excellence is excellent.

New survey -

"How should the SFD decide who gets the new engines?

"The survey is on the right sidebar. Have your say. It will make you feel good.

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 4314 N. Stevens
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99205

NARRATIVE: On January 23rd, 2008 at 8:41 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 1 ladder company, 1 pumper ladder company, 1 rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a report of a garage fire located at 4314 N. Stevens. Fire crews found a garage behind a home that was well involved in fire. A knockdown of the fire was successful and was achieved after 10 minutes. A live power line had dropped during the fire and the area was cleared out in order to isolate and protect civilians and firefighters from electrical shock. The Avista Company arrived shortly and shut down the power. The structure and its contents sustained heavy fire damage. The cause of this fire was an improperly discarded cigarette inside the garage. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. A total of 21 firefighters responded to this fire.

PROBABLE CAUSE: An improperly discarded cigarette.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wood frame garage and contents were severely damaged by the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 18,000
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

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Battalion Chief Dan Brown
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/23/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: !906 West Pacific
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99204

NARRATIVE: On 1/23/09 at 5:51 PM the City of Spokane fire department responded 8 fire apparatus 27 Firefighters and 2 command personnel to 1906 West Pacific for a reported fire in the Mary Manor apartments. Fire companies from Station 4 on arrival reported smoke showing from one of the lower apartments. Attack leads were advanced into the apartment and a quick knock down of the main body of the fire took place. Crews search the upper floors and lower floors for any residents that were not accounted for. Other crews checked the apartments above and adjacent to the fire room for any fire extension. The fire was contained to the kitchen and declared out in about 15 minutes. Overhaul took about one hour. Once the smoke was cleared out the residents were allowed to return to their apartments. There were no reports of any injuries. Fire investigators were called to the scene and it was determined that this was an accidental fire. On adult male was displaced, Red Cross was notified.

PROBABLE CAUSE: Accidental , kitchen fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: KItchen was burned out. Smoke damage through out.
DOLLAR LOSS: 25000.00
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
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

Firefighter Stairclimb Donation Site

Give a little because the climbers are going to give a lot!

Obama's Inauguration Speech Makes Mention of Firefighter's courage...

"It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate."

Don't forget to take the survey in the sidebar: What shift is serving and protecting the most excellently?

There is more to it than shift pride. There's seeing if this survey dealio works.

Fire Press Release - Two Fer

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/18/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1317 S Lacey
CITY: Spokane
STATE: Wa
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/18/09 at approximately 1834 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 1317 S. Lacey upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire department units found smoke coming from a 1 ½ story, wood-frame, single family structure. Crews advanced a pre-connected hose-line through the front door to the rear of the first floor of the structure and found fire within a kitchen wall. The wall was quickly opened up and the fire was quickly extinguished. At the same time other fire crews were busy completing tasks such as: checking the second floor of the residence for fire extension, laddering the roof in case ventilation in that area was necessary, placing tarps in various areas of the residence to protect the tenants personal items from smoke and water damage, as well as overhauling the fire area to detect potential hidden fire.

A total of 27 firefighters on 10 apparatus fought this blaze. No injuries to either firefighters or civilians were reported. Two adults and one child lived at the residence and escaped the residence unharmed. Firefighters were on this fire scene for over two hours.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause of the fire is currently under investigation but appears to have started inside a wall in close proximity to electrical wiring. Fire investigators will have more on the cause of this fire in the near future.
DAMAGE EXTENT: . Fire damage was confined mainly to a first floor kitchen wall and the adjacent bathroom, with minor fire damage evident in the attic above these areas. Minor smoke damage was also evident throughout the residence.
DOLLAR LOSS: 15,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 27
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

ISSUING OFFICER: Ken Kirsch/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/19/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 2319 E. Springfield
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP:

NARRATIVE: On 01/19/09 at approximately 2332 hrs units of the City of Spokane Fire Department responded to 2319 E. Springfield upon report of a structure fire. First arriving fire departments units found a one story, wood-frame, single family residence heavily involved in fire. Approximately one half of the main floor was on fire as well as nearly the entire attic. Initial crews advanced pre-connected hose-lines to attack the fire on the main floor. After that fire was knocked down firefighters concentrated on attacking the fire in the attic. This task was made extremely difficult by the heavy construction of the ceiling materials, making access to the attic a time consuming process. While several crews battled the fire other members ventilated the roof, protected nearby buildings, and opened up areas that may conceal hidden fire. Initial fire crews were on scene for approximately 3 hrs, with other crews to be on scene the rest of the night. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and both escaped safely.

Twenty-three firefighters on nine apparatus battled this blaze. No injuries were reported to either firefighters or civilians.

PROBABLE CAUSE: This fire is currently under investigation and the cause is undetermined. Fire investigators will be back on scene in the morning to continue their efforts to determine the fire cause.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home is considered a total loss. Significant fire damage is evident to the south half of the main floor and to a major portion of the attic. Areas not damaged by fire have suffered smoke and/or water damage. Total dollar loss may be $100,000.
DOLLAR LOSS: 100,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 23
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

Worcester firefighters Safety and Survival Seminar Highlights - Paul Binkoski

Editor's note: This appeared in this month's union newsletter - WORKER, this month. We thought it would be good to share with others what Paul heard at the conference.


Worcester firefighters Safety and Survival Seminar Highlights - Paul Binkoski


BC John Salka, FDNY, Leadership

As a leader you should:

Step back, remember where you came from, where you started at, do the right thing

Innovate - think outside the office, do not hold future leaders back, encourage, inspire

Be interested in what is going on, be interested in others and their ideas. Your way is not always the only way

Do your job when at the station. Leave your day off work at home. Do you spend as much time at home doing fire department stuff as you spend at the station doing day off work?

Passion and positive attitude outshines skill levels. Encourage training and leadership opportunities

Chief officers keep in touch with the troops, go to the stations to let them know who you are. Do not jump calls and take command from your subordinates. They need to learn and develop skills

If upper management lacks leadership qualities, look to other officers or firefighters for guidance. Rank is not an automatic that brings leadership skills or qualities, although some chiefs think it does.

When giving orders, do not give systematic instructions, remember you are working trained and knowledgeable firefighters


Captain Mike Dugan, Ladder 123, FDNY

Black Fire, means smoke is too hot to burn, damage to structure and contents taking place, high risk

Roof Ventilation - try using 7-9-8 cut the 7 first check for pressure turn the 7 into a 9 if you need a bigger hole make the hole a 8, quick smaller hole is better than large hole that takes a lot of time and effort

Watch for hurricane windows - almost impossible to break with hand tools

Coordinate venting with Engine Company. Ladder officer in charge of venting

Use horizontal venting when applicable


Lt. Mickey Conboy, Sq.41, FDNY

Size Up-Needs to be done by everyone on the scene

Look the structure over before going inside, escape routes, windows, doors

Information from the occupants may or may not be reliable

VES needs to be a coordinated effort - Risk vs. Reward - requires training before doing

Radio traffic between crews should be of more importance

Chief on the radio less, do not micro manage, have confidence in your crews, they should know their jobs

Timely reports to the chief from the crews PB

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/16/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3014 N. Cincinnati
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99207

NARRATIVE: On January 16th, 2009 at 3:53 A.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded 3 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs to a house fire at 3014 N. Cincinnati. Firefighters encountered flames coming from the roof area of a one and a half story house upon their arrival. A rapid and thorough search for victims of the home was begun and at the same time hose lines were stretched to the interior of the home where the fire was found to be rapidly extending into the walls and attic space on the upper level. It was then confirmed that all 5 occupants (two adults and three children) made their escape successfully from the home. It was however, discovered that they did not have a working smoke detector. A "knockdown" of the fire was achieved after 15 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for 2 ½ hours performing final extinguishment including searching for hotspots with their thermal imaging cameras. A total of 20 firefighters participated in controlling this fire. The Red Cross was summoned to the scene after it was determined that the smoke and heat damage was significant. The fire is currently being investigated by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigative Unit and at this time, it appears that the fire may have been electrical in origin. The family of 5 will be taken care of by the Red Cross who will be providing lodging. It should be noted that this family did make it out of their burning home, however their smoke detector did not activate due to a poor battery. This family is very lucky to escape as they were sleeping at the time of the fire. Because most fire deaths occur from smoke in the home at night during sleeping hours, it is extremely important that a fresh battery be kept inside smoke detectors. Test batteries at least monthly and replace them at least once a year. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home. Smoke detectors save lives!

PROBABLE CAUSE: The fire is currently under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department Special Investigation Unit. The focus at this time, is on electrical power as a possible source of the fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The wood frame home suffered extensive damage to the upper level attic space and also sustained smoke damage throughout.
DOLLAR LOSS: 30,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 20
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

SFD Scanner on the Interwebnets

Click on the link above to listen to all dispatch all the time. Why would you want to do a thing like that? Hey, I'm just telling you it's here. That's all!

You might have to register. I don't know.

Here's another one:

http://spokane.wa.scanamerica.us/index.php

Fire Press Release

ISSUING OFFICER: Bob Green/Battalion Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/13/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 1528 E Boone Ave.
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99202

NARRATIVE: The Spokane City Fire Dept. responded fire fighting crews and their apparatus to 1528 E. Boone Ave. at 6:41 on the morning of Jan. 13th, 2009, for a reported structure fire. As fire crews were responding to this address they received additional reports from Fire Dispatch advising them that the four occupants of the structure had exited safely from the building. The first arriving fire crew reported that there was light smoke coming from the front of the structure and that they were preparing to enter to investigate for the cause of the smoke. Eventually two more fire fighting crews were assigned to assist in this investigation as they began arriving on scene. Armed with fire hoses, axes, pike poles, and thermal imaging cameras, these crews were able to dig out this fire from the walls and ceilings that were keeping it from being seen. Once uncovered the fire was quickly contained and extinguished by the crews who were inside doing their assigned work. There were no reports of any injuries to the fire fighters at the scene or to the occupants of the building. This particular house was divided into two apartments; an upper unit which was occupied by the building owner, and a lower unit occupied by a young couple and their infant. The younger couple is being assisted by the Red Cross as their unit will be without electricity until electrical repairs can be completed. The owner, who resides in the upper portion of the duplex, may have to make other short-term living arrangements as well. An investigator from the Spokane Fire Dept.'s Special Investigation Unit was on scene shortly after the fire had been extinguished and his preliminary investigation has focused on the electrical system in the building as being the probable cause of this early morning fire. Damage to the structural members of the building was kept to a minimum since the fire crews were able to expose the fire and extinguish it before it could get a good foot-hold on the structure. Once the electrical repairs have been made and other additional interior repairs are finished, the house should once again be habitable.

PROBABLE CAUSE: The electrical system in the house is the apparent cause for the fire.
DAMAGE EXTENT: Damage to the electrical system is severe, structural damage was fairly slight, limited water damage, some smoke damage throughout the building, and some interior cosmetic damage was caused by having to breach walls in the search for the fire.
DOLLAR LOSS: 10,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
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: Brian Schaeffer
DATE OF INCIDENT: 1/6/2009
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 5720 North G Street
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 99208

NARRATIVE: On Tuesday, January 6, 2009 at 09:16 AM, 7 Companies of Spokane Firefighters, 4 Engines, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 Senior Ladder, 1 Pumper-Ladder under the direction of Battalion Chiefs Inman and Cornelius responded to a residence fire at 5720 North G Street.

Firefighters from the neighborhood Fire Station (Station 16) arrived within 5 minutes to discover a single family residence with smoke showing. Engine 16 and neighboring Engine 17 forced entry to the home under heavy smoke and heat conditions to discover a working basement fire. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire and efforts by arriving companies were focused at searching the home for trapped occupants and confining the fire to the area of origin.

A well coordinated interior fire attack combined with ventilation efforts allowed firefighters to quickly gain the upper hand on the fire. Firefighters were able to rescue two cats and one dog during their search. All three animals received emergency medical by crews on scene, including oxygen via special masks provided by a local Veterinarian group. All three animals were resuscitated and recovering well at the time of this release. The fire was controlled in just 15-minutes and was confined to the basement. There were no injuries reported.


PROBABLE CAUSE: The cause is under investigation by the Spokane Fire Department's Special Investigation Unit.
DAMAGE EXTENT: The home suffered heat, smoke and water damage.
DOLLAR LOSS: 25,000
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 25
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: Bobby Williams, Fire Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: 12/30/2008
INCIDENT TYPE: Structure Fire
INCIDENT ADDRESS: 3857 E. Olive, Empire Cold Storage
CITY: Spokane
STATE: WA
ZIP: 0

NARRATIVE: Release issued as of 2:00 pm

A fire broke out in the center portion of the Empire Cold Storage facility at approximately 10:09 am today. Initial arriving companies reported a working fire. Assistant Chief Brian Schaeffer and Deputy Chief Dave Leavenworth were in the area and arrived on the scene shortly. Chief Schaeffer assumed command and requested a 2nd Alarm. The fire eventually went to a 3rd alarm utilizing 14 of the city fire department's 17 units along with a ladder from the Valley Fire Department.

A short time after being on scene, signs of structural collapse were observed and forced firefighter evacuation of the building and the incident going to a "Defensive" mode.

The facility stored approximately 100 tons of frozen food products. As a part of the cooling process the facility uses the chemical Anhydrous Ammonia. This is an extremely dangerous chemical that can react violently to fire creating a number of hazardous situations. Due to this chemical being on site and potentially exposed to the spreading fire, an evacuation was initiated in an area of 500 feet in all directions of the structure.

There were two separate Anhydrous Ammonia storage tanks at this location. One contained 2000 lbs of the chemical and the other 2500 lbs. Fire crews concentrated on protecting these storage tanks from fire as well as fire from spreading to other parts of the building.

The main building was generally divided into 3 areas separated by fire walls. The fire originated and thus far has been contained to the center divided area.

Water streams from aerial ladders and ground deluge guns were used to put water on the fire. There were some initial challenges for Firefighters to find and dig out fire hydrants. The city water department was extremely helpful in finding and digging out additional hydrants for possible use.

As the fire department gained control of the fire, the mandatory evacuation order was lifted at approximately 1:15 pm.

During the height of the incident, several city fire stations were filled with mutual aid units from surrounding fire departments and districts including the Valley Fire Department and Fire Districts 8, 9 and 10.

It is anticipated that the Spokane Fire Department will have units on the scene for several hours.


PROBABLE CAUSE: Preliminarily it has been determined that the fire was started by a cutting torch removing a portion of an awning that had collapsed from snow load over the weekend. Apparently, the awning collapse caused a gas leak during the weekend. The gas was immediately shut down by the utility company and had no contribution to the fire.

The building owner hired a contractor to repair the damage created by the awning collapse. In order to complete the repair, it was necessary to cut away a part of the awning from the main structure on the north side of the building in the center of the building. It was during the cutting operation that the fire began.

Fire Investigators will conduct additional work on the scene after the fire is totally extinguished and it is safe to do so.

DAMAGE EXTENT: The center of the building received extreme fire damage. At this time the extent of damage to the frozen food products stored at the facility is not know.
DOLLAR LOSS: 0
FIREFIGHTER RESPONSE: 60
MUTUAL AID: Fire District 1, Fire District 10, Fire District 8, Fire District 9


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