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Fire Daily’s 360 Burn Around The Fire Webs

Check out Daily Fire Fix for today’s stories!

These Tunes Are ON FIRE!

A neighbor observed his 57-yr old neighbor listening to music in his BMW parked in the driveway of his home.  Shortly thereafter, the car was ablaze, and as was caught on police dash cam, responding officers noticed the man was still inside.  The Police officers are seen reaching into the vehicle and dragging him away from the intense heat and flames, clearly risking their lives .  The man, described as having been incapacitated, and he was transported to the hospital suffering only from minor smoke inhalation.  You gotta love the dash cam!

 

Injured CFD's Finest Rescue Carful of Criticals Who Pulled Out In Front Of Them

Alcohol is being investigated in the cause of an intersection accident in which Chicago Fire Department engine 62 struck an automobile on Monday night injuring ten including 4 firefighters.  3 children and two adults were critically injured.  According to initial reports, the automobile proceeded into the intersection after stopping, and the engine did not have enough time to avoid the crash.  Witnesses at the scene reported that firefighters injured in the collision immediately began to treat those in the automobile before other firefighters and paramedics arrived.  The 18-yr old driver has since been charged with DUI and other traffic offenses.  Check out the news report from MyFoxChicago.com :

9 Injured When Chicago Fire Truck Crashes Into Car: MyFoxCHICAGO.com

 

Patriots Send NH Fireighter to the Super Bowl

A New Hampshire firefighter will be unable to respond to calls this weekend because he is a volunteer.  Why?  The New England Patriots chose 10 “Super Persons” from around New England, police, firefighters, teachers, and military members, all a part of their Celebrate Volunteerism Campaign.  One of those winners is Somersworth NH firefighter Tim Wilder.  Tim is headed to the Super Bowl this weekend along with nine other public service workers.  Watch the video from WMUR TV :

<a data-cke-saved-href='http://video.app.msn.com/?mkt=en-us&vid=d59e7576-1b69-4c4e-a958-1ac41591a7a9&from=&src=v5:embed::' href='http://video.app.msn.com/?mkt=en-us&vid=d59e7576-1b69-4c4e-a958-1ac41591a7a9&from=&src=v5:embed::' target='_new' title='Somersworth Firefighter Heads To Super Bowl'>Video: Somersworth Firefighter Heads To Super Bowl</a>

 

Nom Nom Nom…..

Here's some secret recipes for firehouse snacks on this- the most glorious weekend to be on shift at the firehouse- the Super Bowl!  First up, an ultra simple idea that will make you look like you know how to make something- even though your partners will realize you can’t.  Get a brick of Philadelphia cream cheese, put it on a plate, pour some shrimp sauce over it.  Wallah- with a few triscuits, you’ve got a dipping delight! 

Now for a secret recipe from my firehouse that is sooo simple and soooo yummy, you’ll make it even during the off season.  Pop a blob of beef roast into a crock pot at the beginning o your shift and cover it with a big jar of giardinara peppers.  Cook it on low heat til game time, open the lid, shred the meat with a couple of forks and serve it on some fresh French bread with a little mozz or provolone- and you’ve got some of the best Italian beef sandwiches you’ll ever taste. 

If you want to show some true effort with a quick, easy, and healthy Super Bowl food idea check out the video below from TheFirehouseChef.  In this episode, Ryan celebrates one of the most hallowed days at the firehouse- Super Bowl Sunday- with his famous Chipotle Chicken Salad Crostini.  Although it’s great all year long, this finger food combination of chicken, garlic, and chipotle is sure to be a crowd pleaser.  And here’s a secret- The full video recipe enables guys like me to shine in the most valuable position in the firehouse- the shift’s cook. 

Bon Appetit!

 

 

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Posted in 360 Burn, Chicagoland, Fires, In Da House, In the Line of Duty, Just For Fun, NetCast, News, Tips and Tricks, Vehicle Operations & Apparatus, Videos

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Posted by on February 2, 2012 • No comments

NIOSH summary report on CFD firefighter/paramedic Christopher Wheatley’s LODD prompts an interesting question

 

Today’s Chicago Tribune includes a report by Trib reporter William Lee who draws our attention to the NIOSH report summary released earlier this month on the August 9th death of Chicago firefighter/paramedic Christopher Wheatley.

You may recall that Chris fell 53 feet to his death while using a fire escape ladder in ascending to the roof of a four-story West Loop building.  He was wearing full turnout gear and carrying a 63- pound hand pump.

In a nutshell, the report summary says that, although Chris was directed to ascend to the roof via an aerial ladder, he instead opted to use the building's fire escape system. 

Second-guessing Chris’ actions and decisions in this case will not help us to understand why he chose this route to the roof.  We’ll never know, so let’s put that aside for a moment.

Rather, I found myself contemplating this thought:  Given the same circumstances, what would I have done? 

What would you have done?

Is it important to follow each fireground order to the letter, or should we have the latitude to act upon our instincts and experience to get the job done?

Take a look at the NIOSH summary report, it’s not that long and well worth your time.  Then ask yourself just how probable it would be that you may have done the same thing.  Next, discuss it with your crew.  How do they feel about this:

 

Posted in Chicagoland, Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, LODD, Never Forget, News, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics

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Posted by on June 29, 2011 • 1 comment

“Just See Video”- Chicago FD- Change is in the air

To have a wife turn to you and look at you and say, “What the hell happened here?  Where the hell was his hood?  Who was in charge?  How would you guys let this happen to him?  Why him? What do I say to them?”

 

Posted in Firefighter Safety & Health, Firefighting Operations, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, LODD, Never Forget, News, Videos

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Posted by on June 12, 2011 • 1 comment

Chief Ray Hoff, one of the best, passes.

CITY OF CHICAGO MEMORIAL SERVICES FOR RETIRED BATTALION CHIEF RAYMOND C. HOFF OF BATTALION 4 WILL BE HELD ON MARCH 26, 2011 AT HOLY FAMILY, CHURCH, 1080 W. ROOSEVELT ROAD

WAKE (AT CHURCH)
0900 HOURS TO 1100 HOURS FOLLOWED BY A MASS AT 1100 HOURS
UNIFORM MEMBERS WALK‐THRU AT 1030 HOURS

News has reached me that one of the most influential instructors in my career, retired Chicago Fire Battalion Chief Ray Hoff, had passed away earlier today.  This brings great sadness, albeit tempered with thoughts of some of the finest training I was fortunate to receive in my career.

Ray Hoff. Once you see this picture, you begin to know him.

Chief Hoff is a third generation firefighter, serving most of his career as one of Chicago’s finest.  He is the older brother of Chicago Fire Commissioner Robert “Bob’ Hoff, as well as his brother Rick, a white helmet in the Chicago burbs near me.  Ray Hoff is most recently the Chief at Topinabee, Michigan.

The Hoff firefighter is a fireman’s fireman.  They perform their job with pride, honor, and a commitment to each and every brother and sister fortunate enough to work alongside them.  They each ooze “street cred.”

Though they would never substantiate the “rumor,:  Ray and Bob Hoff were the brothers in the movie Backdraft.  The early line of duty death funeral scene is based upon the actual event at the passing of their father, Tommy Hoff.   Their relative silence on that rumor was a testament to their humility.

He was a sought after instructor on many levels, including the Illinois Fire Service Institute, which attracts the crème-de-le-crème.  He lectured extensively on that which he knew best, how to operate safely and effectively on the fireground.  He spoke eloquently on the Paxson Fire in Chicago, straight from his perspective as the first-in truck company at that horrific fire which claimed 20 lives.

In fact, Chief Ray Hoff taught me more on tactics and strategy in one hour than I learned in most 40-hour classes.  He had the ability to speak “with” you, rather than just teach you.  He was at his best when he was in “war story mode”, the way I found most appealing in learning anything regarding firefighting.

Chief Hoff lived and loved the fire service all the days of his life.  In his passing, he certainly left the fire service in much more richer, wiser, and capable hands as he left an indelible footprint in many of our lives, especially mine.

Thank you Chief, from a grateful fire service.  Godspeed.

Posted in Chicagoland, News, Training

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Posted by on March 15, 2011 • 2 comments

Arrangements as they are announced for Chicago firefighters Cory Ankum and Edward Stringer

Stay tuned to FireDaily.com as we will be updating this page with all the information you’ll need immediately upon notification of arrangements for both Brothers Cory Ankum and Edward Stringer throughout the upcoming days.  We all join together to keep them, their families, and Brothers and Sisters in our warm thoughts and loving prayers, especially during this holiday season.

Edward Stringer Visitation and Funeral

Visitation is Monday, December 27, 2010 (3A) (EMS2) from 3pm-9pm

Blake Lamb Funeral Home

4727 W. 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL

(see map and directions below)

Funeral is Tuesday, December 28, 2010  (1A) (EMS 2) at 10am (tentative)

St. Rita of Cascia Chapel

7740 S. Western, Chicago, IL

(see map and directions below)

Cemetery is pending

Cory Ankum Visitation

Visitation is Wednesday, December 29, 2010  from 3pm-9pm

Apostolic Church of God

63rd and Dorchester

(see map and directions below)

Funeral is Thursday, December 30, 2010

Location and times TBA

Hotel Information

Room blocks have been held at the following hotels for the week of 12/27 through 12/31

Hyatt Regency Chicago

151 East Wacker  (312)565-1234

$89 a night rate plus tax – mention block: “Firefighters Union”

Fairmont

200 North Columbus  1-800 526-2008

$119 a night plus tax with free parking – mention block : “Fire”


Ankum Family Memorial Fund

A memorial fund has been set up for the Ankum Family at Chase Bank.  You can call any Chase Bank and tell them you would like to make a donation to this fund.  Tell them it is a business fund under FF Corey Ankum Memorial Fund.

Maps and Directions

Click on the maps to visit their web page

Blake Lamb Funeral Home

click on the map for Blake Lamb's web page

St. Rita of Cascia Chapel

click on map for St. Rita's web page

Leak and Sons Funeral Home

Apostolic Church of God

Posted in Brotherhood, Chicagoland, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, LODD, News

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Posted by on December 24, 2010 • 1 comment

VIDEO AND FIREGROUND AUDIO: (LODD) CFD’s Cory Ankum and Edward Stringer die, 19 firefighters seriously injured in Chicago Building Collapse- 100 years to the day of the Chicago Stockyards Fire that killed 21 firefighters

> Click here for comprehensive information regarding funeral arrangements, maps, hotels, etc. <

Two firefighters have lost their lives, and 19 others seriously injured in a building collapse during a fire this morning in an abandoned commercial building fire this morning at 1744 E. 75th Street in Chicago’s South Shore.

One of the firefighters, 34-year-old Cory Ankum from Tower Ladder 34, had been on the department only sixteen months.  Corey had previously served as a Chicago Police officer before joining the city’s fire department.  His wife is Mayor Richard Daley’s personal secretary.  He is a father of three children under 12 years old, including a  one-year old child.

The second firefighter is identified as Engine 63′s Edward Stringer, a 12-year veteran of the CFD. According to “a highly-dependable source” inside the CFD, he was working as a “relief Lieutenant”, covering for another Lieutenant for an unknown reason . Before Stringer went in with the hoseline, the normally-assigned Lieutenant showed up told him he could leave now.  Stringer declined the offer, saying “I got it”, and went inside.  The ensuing collapse killed him and Ankum.

Live Fireground Audio during the initial response and mayday

The tragic fire comes exactly 100 years to the day of another Chicago fire tragedy.  On December 22, 1910, 21 firefighters died when a wall collapsed upon them at the Union Stockyards Fire.  Until the collapse of the World Trade Center’s twin towers on Sept. 11, 2001, no single disaster in the history of the United States claimed the lives of more firefighters.

Many of those responding to the 3-11 fire left services commemorating that event and responded to today’s scene to assist in the rescue effort.

According to Chicago Fire Commissioner Robert Hoff, firefighters entered the burning structure because of reports there may have been squatters inside the old laundry and cleaning facility.  So far, no other victims have been located.

At one point in the 2-11 fire, a wall collapse occurred, sending the flat wooden roof crashing down on firefighters burying them in the rubble.  Instantaneously, a mayday was sounded and rescue efforts were mounted.

The fire was initially brought under control with two lines when the collapse occurred.  The alarm was escalated to a 3-11 and an EMS plan 2 bringing in 10 additional ambulances. Two firefighters were quickly rescued, and the other two needed hydraulic tools for their rescue in the rear of the building as the fire continued to progress.

All firefighters have finally been accounted for.  The initial accounting was difficult as the fire came in right at shift change.  Normally assigned crews were mixed between the two shifts.

Everyday Chicagoans joined firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement along the streets as the fire department ambulances carrying the bodies of the two Chicago firefighters passed by on their way to the Medical Examiner’s office.  Firefighters were too overcome with grief to grant interviews with the press just a few hours after the tragic events.

Posted in Chicagoland, Fires, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, LODD, Major Incidents, News, Videos

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Posted by on December 22, 2010 • 2 comments

UPDATED WITH ARRANGEMENTS: Chicago Fire Department Firefighter Christopher Wheatley, 31, Dies in the Line of Duty During Overnight Restaurant Fire

Chicago firefighter Christopher Wheatley, 31, died at Stroger Hospital this morning after battling a blaze at a downtown restaurant.

UPDATED 8/10/2010 16:00 hrs

Visitation: Thursday, August 12th (1E) (EMS 1) from 3:00 pm-9:00 pm at the Blake-Lamb Funeral Home located at 4727 W. 103rd St in Oak Lawn.

CFD Assembly at 1830 hours – Walk thru at 1900 hours

Funeral Service at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home on Friday August 13th
CFD Assembly at 0800 hours
Prayer Service at 0915 hours
Walk-thru immediately following prayer service

Funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 13th (2A) (EMS 2) will be held at St. John Fisher Church located at 10234 S. Washtenaw in Chicago at 1030 hours

Interment: Holy Sepulchre Cemetery – 3001 W. 111th St – Worth. IL

Uniform – Class A (blouse & white gloves)

Click on map for zoom and pan

He was carrying equipment up an exterior fire escape ladder at the Ayec Restaurant at 615 West Randolph in downtown Chicago overnight when he apparently slipped and lost his hold. He fell about 35 feet to the ground below suffering injuries that were so traumatic they would end his life.

Chicago firefighter Christopher Wheatley gave his life last night, the first CFD member to die in the line of duty since 2008. He had been carrying an ax and hose to open up the grease chute in what turned out to be a minor fire just after midnight.

He was immediately worked on the scene and transported to Stroger Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center (formerly called Cook County Hospital) were dozens of doctors, nurses, and specialists were waiting to care for him. Tragically, Christopher was pronounced dead at 1:19 a.m.

Outside the hospital scores of police and firefighters stood vigil as a Chicago Fire Department Ladder truck extended it’s boom, raised high over the entrance to the building in silent tribute to their fallen brother.

As Firefighter Wheatley’s body was moved from Stroger Hospital to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office nearby, nearly 50 fire, police, and ambulance vehicles with lights flashing lined the streets, officers saluting as CFD Ambulance 15 passed by.

Christopher Wheatley joined the Department ten years ago as a paramedic. In 2008, he “crossed over” and became a firefighter, as many often do. He was currently assigned to Truck 2.

According to Chicago Fire Commissioner Robert Hoff, Wheatley “was one of our finest”, “always had a smile”, and well-liked by all who knew him.

“He was a very aggressive firefighter — he was into the job,” Hoff said later, standing outside Wheatley’s firehouse not far from the restaurant that caught fire. “He was aggressive. He was into training. He was an all-around firefighter. He loved the job.”

“He trained constantly, took a lot of difference classes to educate himself and make him better. He was a good team player, helped out with the small things, house cleaning, cleaning up. He never backed off that. He was always there,” said Brian Reese, Chicago firefighter.

Firefighters who worked with Wheatley hung a purple and black bunting at their West Loop fire station, gave each other support and talked about his passion and strive to help others.

“He was a great guy, step-up guy, great shape, worked out every day. Loved his sports, loved to ride on his boat with his fiancée, loved his family,” said Scott Buckley, Chicago firefighter.

Christopher Wheatley leaves behind his mother, father, a sister, and his fiancé.

As soon as arrangements are made known, we will pass them along immediately.

Please pause and pray for our fallen brother, his family, and all those with whom Christopher has served as we remember all the lives which he touched in his all-to-brief presence with us in this world.

WGN-TV news reports as they progressed throughout the morning:

Posted in Chicagoland, In the Line of Duty, Line of Duty, LODD, News, Videos

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Posted by on August 9, 2010 • 2 comments

A St. Patrick’s Day Salute to CFD Chief Eddie Enright

When I think of St. Patrick’s Day and the fire service, many things come to mind.  One of those thoughts bubbling up to the surface brings a smile to my face every time. Indulge me with a re-post recognizing the value an experienced veteran with the right approach can bring to all of us, young and old.

With that perspective, I offer up a special note to third-generation firefighter retired Chicago Fire Department Deputy District Chief Eddie Enright who has over 38 years of duty having been assigned to engine, truck, and squad companies after serving his country in Vietnam.  As he would say:

“Only 0 more days til St. Patrick’s Day”

* * * * *

Over the years, I’ve attended a boatload of fire training classes which emphasized leadership, training, and safety. Most were team-taught. A primary instructor would be there periodically, accompanied by a great group of “assisting instructors” who would each bring a certain level of expertise to the specific topic at hand.

There were lesson plans to be followed, objectives to be addressed and met, and the test to prove that learning had occurred. It’s a method of learning quite familiar with firefighters worldwide.

But sometimes, the Fire Gods might truly smile down upon you and bless you.

As you’re sitting in the classroom waiting for the course to begin, you wonder where all the instructors went. Just then, you hear guffaws of laughter just out of sight (probably damn near the coffee and doughnuts). What’s going on?

“Da Chief” is in the building.old fire helmet

Not necessarily the current department chief, but certainly a chief nonetheless.

He’s been around for decades and he’s seen it all. He rose up through the ranks and gained the respect from his peers the old-fashioned way. “Da Chief” earned it.

He knows how to handle the pick-head ax just as well as how to handle the politicians. He knows BS when he sees it and he doesn’t hesitate to call it out.

Just like Underdog, he is humble and loveable. He listens to everyone’s views and becomes E.F. Hutton: When “Da Chief” begins to speak- everyone listens.

Down to earth. Real.

When you are blessed with the presence of this special guy, drop everything you are doing and be near him. Hear what he has to say. Drink it all in.

Not only do you learn from his experience and wisdom, but, more importantly, from the way he relates to those around him. He does not condescend to the rookies; he gives no guff to those with whom he may disagree. He is compassionate and concerned. His smile is contagious and his love of the fire service is completely evident. He fills you with motivation and oozes tradition.

buy him a beer While reading this, do I have you thinking about someone you know that could be like “Da Chief”? If so, make it a point to get him to engage with you and your group. Buy him a beer after class.

It will be the best time you can spend in any fire service training session.

WordPress Tags: IFSI,Enright,leadership,wisdom,motivation,tradition,Chicago,Eddie

Posted in Administration & Leadership, Chicagoland, In Da House, Just For Fun, Leadership

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Posted by on March 17, 2010 • No comments

“I do not proposition women. I don’t have to. Women usually proposition me. God has blessed me like that.”- Chicago Fire Commissioner John Brooks.


Well, then.

I guess this is the type of egotistical and flippant response that is in order when accused with the rather serious charge of sexual harassment.  Apparently, this is why we are supposed to believe that the allegations must be unfounded.

Just change the focus.

Then get out of Dodge for an “extended 30-day vacation.”

According to a report by the Chicago Sun Times, mayoral chief of staff Ray Orozco, a former fire commissioner himself, was described as livid about Brooks’ remarks. That leaves me wondering how the normally animated Mayor Richard Daley must have reacted.

When the mayor was repeatedly asked last week if Brooks still enjoys his confidence, Daley refused each time to say “yes”.

Oops.

Again, methinks Brooks is bestowed with enough confidence already.

From the exclusive report by staff reporters Fran Spielman and Frank Main, a payroll auditor for the Fire Department, Deidre Green, claims Brooks told her he “desired her in a sexual manner” and wanted to see her breasts, Green said. She claims that Brooks called her repeatedly and moved to lay her off when she refused his advances.

“He told me he liked me and to call him back, which I did,” she said.

But she said she didn’t like his attitude in later calls.

“He would say, ‘I am a breast man. I want a wild woman,’ ” Green claimed. “I said, ‘I don’t like this picture.’ He felt I was subordinate to him.”

If Brooks intended to help her professionally, he didn’t need to do it in late-night calls on his personal phone, Green said.

“Why would we talk at 11 o’clock at night? Why would I have his personal number? When things didn’t go his way, he got upset with me,” she said.

Green said they spoke a few more times on the phone before she confronted Brooks in the office, saying she heard he had a girlfriend.

“He said, ‘I saved your job.’ He said, ‘They want to get rid of you. I can hire you, and I can fire you, and you can sue to get your job back.’ “

The calls ended in October 2008, Green said, but she claims Brooks continued walking past her desk and making harassing comments.

As if that weren’t enough, also in hot water is the Commissioner of the Office of Compliance, Anthony Boswell, who is already serving a 30-day suspension for allegedly mishandling an intern’s sexual harassment claim against a 911 Center deputy. Boswell denies his guilt and is appealing the suspension.

Boswell, a friend of Brooks, is also accused by an unidentified source of trying to spike the investigation of Green’s claims, according to the Sun Times.

Methinks the self-professed well-endowed and God-blessed Brooks will have plenty of opportunity to fend off the women once the investigation by the city’s Office of Compliance has been completed and he finds his calendar wide open, unencumbered by the suffocation of the time constraints of any continued duties as fire commissioner.

giant black cock

Posted in Administration & Leadership, Chicagoland, News, WTF?

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Posted by on March 9, 2010 • 5 comments

US Supreme Court to hear another “Ricci-type” case today

The justices will decide whether blacks who were not hired in Chicago because of their test scores are due damages for years of lost wages.

Based on an article in the LA Times by David Savage

Although they share the building with the Chicago Bulls, nearly all of my visits to Chicago’s United Center have been to watch our beloved Blackhawks in action.  Now the UC is not just a sports stadium.  Holding nearly 23,000, the UC has been host to huge concerts and other events.  The circus comes to town for a couple of weeks every winter (insert Chicago joke here).

Last century (1995), the United Center drew one of its hugest crowds as 26,000 fire department applicants jammed into the sports arena to take an entry-level, paper-and-pencil test for jobs in the Fire Department.

Only those who scored 89 or above were considered “well qualified” for the jobs, the city said in January 1996. Assuming they passed a physical and medical test, these top scorers stood a good chance of being hired over the next eight years.

According to an article written by David Savage of the LA Times, about 76% of those in the “well qualified” group were white — 11.5% were black even though there were only slightly more whites than blacks taking the test. Mayor Richard M. Daley called the results “disappointing.” Those who scored between 65 and 88 were classified as “qualified” but were told they were unlikely to be hired.

Beginning today, the United States Supreme Court will hear a case brought by more than 6,000 African Americans alleging racial discrimination.  The group earned “qualified” scores, but who lost out to mostly white applicants who had higher, “well qualified” scores.  In their 1997 suit against the city, they relied on a part of the Civil Rights Act that says job standards, including tests, are illegal if they unfairly screen out applicants because of their race or gender.

The justices ruled for white firefighters in New Haven last year, who said they were victims of illegal racial discrimination when the city threw out the results of a promotion test. The whites had earned high scores and would have gotten nearly all the promotions. City officials dropped the test results because they feared being sued by blacks who were denied promotions.

Shortly after this ruling, the high court voted to hear the case of the black applicants from Chicago.

In the Chicago case, the justices will decide whether blacks who were not hired in Chicago because of their test scores are due damages for years of lost wages. The potentially $100-million civil rights case comes before a high court that has already shown its skepticism toward such claims.

“This case is the flip side of Ricci,” said Benna Solomon, deputy corporation counsel for Chicago, referring to the New Haven case. “It illustrates the tension that public employers face.”

The outcome of the Chicago case is likely to have a national impact, because most state and city agencies are required by law to use competitive tests for hiring.

Stay tuned….

Posted in News

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Posted by on February 22, 2010 • No comments

360 Burn Size-up of The Fire Web 12/22/09

Chicago’s Gold Badge Society- One of a Kind

We know that a special type of brotherhood exists in the fire service.  In a Chicago Tribune story we see an example of the true blessings that brotherhood is made of.  Chicago’s Gold Badge Society recently held a Christmas Party bringing together many of the group’s 75 members, all of whom are relatives of Chicago firefighters and paramedics killed on the job. Read the story of how these wonderful people have helped the family of a Buffalo NY firefighter nearly killed in a roof collapse and putting him into a coma lasting almost 10 years.  If your active on Facebook, Chicago’s Gold Badge Society has it’s own Cause page, nearly reaching the goal of 2500 members.  Pop in and show your support!

Grab the Right Tool

If you cant get to the fire, you can’t make an interior attack.  Without good forcible entry skills, just prepare to set up for an exterior attack and all the fun that ensues with a winter water carnival.

The blog site VentEnterSearch.com is always a great spot to check out when looking to review your ability to recognize the way to best force entry in a given situation.  The most recent post gets you thinking about which is the best tool to use for gaining access into a special kind of door (your first choice is probably wrong).

As always, VentEnterSearch.com is worth your attention on a regular basis.

Station Fire Government Report Indicates Planes Ordered, Canceled, Then Re-Ordered

Los Angeles County Supervisor Mike Antonovich reportedly wants Congress to investigate how the firefighting was conducted in the county’s largest wildfire in history. The “Station Fire” ultimately killed two firefighters, destroyed 89 homes and blackened 250 square miles on the edge of Los Angeles.

According to a report from the Associated Press, questions still linger regarding the handling of the incident.  Chief among them is the apparent two-hour delay of three aerial tankers summoned by the U.S. Forest Service who later canceled then reordered them again according to Forest Service records obtained by The Associated Press through the Freedom of Information Act.  Read the entire story here

Posted in 360 Burn, Brotherhood, Chicagoland, Command & Leadership, Firefighting Operations, Fires, Major Incidents, News, Wildland, WTF?

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Posted by on December 22, 2009 • No comments

Fire YesterDaily- “Da Chief”

Der Tannenbaum ist lit.  Der blogmeisterberger ist lit too.

As we approach the end of the year, the crack staff here at FireDaily has taken advantage of the open bar.  What better time than now to return to the thrilling days of YesterMonth for the third installment of “Two Thousand and Nine Favorite FireDaily Blog Posts from 2009”.

In case you missed the first two, you can find them here:

#2009-  Got a Bad Attitude?  Stay at Home!

#2008- 30 Minutes a Week of Training is Unfair and “Unreal”

#2007- “Da Chief”

Sometimes the Fire Gods might truly smile down upon you.  When you are blessed with the presence of this special guy, drop everything you are doing and be near him. Hear what he has to say. Drink it all in… (full post here)

In the meantime, we’d better get the rest of the bar checked out.  I’ll put some more ice on….

Posted in Chicagoland, In Da House, Leadership, Tips and Tricks, Tradition, Training

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Posted by on December 17, 2009 • No comments

The Ghosts of Fires Past

In January of 2002, a fatal fire broke out in the Plaza on DeWitt condominium hi-rise at 260 East Chestnut in Chicago.  In that fire several firefighters were injured and residents were rescued from the building’s roof where they were forced to flee to escape severe smoke conditions.

A few mornings ago as reported here on Fire Daily, history repeated itself.  As the first brutally cold and windy night of winter charged into the city, fully one-third of the on-duty personnel of Chicago’s firefighters were again called to the Plaza on DeWitt.  The 36th floor fire was again fatal; again eight firefighters were injured; several residents again were rescued from the building’s roof where they were forced to escape severe smoke conditions.

A little over a week ago on December 3, we all took pause to remember the Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse fire of ten years ago.  Six firefighters lost their lives that day on an interior rescue for squatters believed to be inside the old building.

Yesterday, history again repeated itself.

A two-alarm blaze in a vacant South Boston warehouse yesterday was eerily reminiscent of the Worcester fire.  Boston Fire Rescue Company 1 was advised that the building was known to be occupied by squatters and people may be trapped inside.  They entered, split into two groups and began their search.  Two of Boston’s bravest tripped and fell into FOUR FEET of standing water during the effort.

One of the firefighters was able to feel his way up some stairs and found the lone occupant who had become disoriented in the heavy smoke conditions.  That firefighter, 63-year old John Smith, a FORTY YEAR VETERAN FIREFIGHTER. led the man outside to waiting EMS workers.

The report from the Boston Globe describes the scene:

“Fire officials said the rescued man was one of several people living in the warehouse. Inside the building, an intricately organized squatters’ residence could be seen, with beds, televisions, microwaves, and even a stocked kitchen setup, complete with a spice rack. Fire officials said yesterday that the legally vacant building was even wired for electricity.

South Boston is home to an array of warehouses and industrial-type buildings, and fire officials know that homeless people gather here.

“Since Worcester, there’s been a heightened awareness among firefighters’’ as they go about their searches,” (Boston Fire Department Spokesman Steve) MacDonald said.

Smith said his crew stayed focused on saving anyone who might be inside the warehouse yesterday. “This is a prime spot for homeless people at this time of year,’’ he said. “Inside these buildings, they can set up quite a bit of housekeeping and stay there for quite some time.’’

The firefighters in Massachusetts and Chicago have witnessed history repeating itself.

Because they applied knowledge gained from these previous incidents, they were better prepared to handle the next incident.

Here is tangible proof that the Worcester 6 an others like them have not died in vain.

We have learned from their tragedy and all become better prepared to handle the next call where history will invariably repeat itself.

Again.

Stay stoked!

-J

Posted in Chicagoland, Close Calls, Major Incidents, News, Rescues, Tips and Tricks, Tradition, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics

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Posted by on December 14, 2009 • 4 comments

Fatal Early Morning 5-Alarmer Eerily Similar to Fire There 8 Years Ago

“It was the only thing we could do. Both stairwells were filled with smoke. There was nowhere to go but up.”

It started as a slight smell of smoke, possibly from a cigarette he thought. But when the smell continued to grow stronger and smoke began seeping through the vents inside his apartment, Jeff Amsel called 911. As his apartment began to fill with smoke, he woke up his 6-year old daughter and, clothed only in loungewear ran out into the hallway. With no other options, they grabbed some winter coats and headed for the roof.

This morning’s hi-rise fire at The Plaza on DeWitt in the Streeterville neighborhood in Chicago has now claimed at least one life and developed into a five-alarm challenge for firefighters facing the first brutally windy and cold night of the season. Among the many injured reported were several Chicago firefighters treated for smoke inhalation.

Nearly 8 years ago, an eerily similar fire at this 51-story condominium building at 260 East Chestnut resulted in a fatality and injuring eight firefighters. As in this morning’s fire, the January 2002 fire also required firefighters to rescue residents from the building’s roof where they had also fled for safety.

The 2002 fire revived criticism by local fire experts about the City of Chicago’s refusal to require sprinkler systems in residential high-rises built prior to 1975. Because of the expense involved in retro-fitting these buildings, the city has given them an alternative. They have until Jan. 1, 2012 to take alternative life-saving measures. The modifications could include communication systems, fire hoses and emergency backup equipment.

Read more on these stories from Chicago Breaking News here , here and here.  FireGeezer has posted a video report as well at his site.

Here is the fire communications audio:

Posted in Chicagoland, Fires, Major Incidents, News

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Posted by on December 10, 2009 • No comments

Pet Oxygen Masks Now On Chicagoland Apparatus

photo from 14 Paws Organization

Firefighters in Chicago and south suburban Matteson have recently gotten a new way to help save the lives of pets.

Oxygen masks will be distributed to the departments, and firefighters will be trained in how to use them.

The specialized masks are cone-shaped and designed to fit over the snouts of animals, including dogs, cats and some birds. The masks were originally intended for veterinarians.

Chicago Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford says in the past, firefighters have used their own masks to save pets.

Fire officials say firefighters won’t have to worry about being bitten by an animal they’re helping because the lack of oxygen makes them lethargic.  Up to 150,000 pets die in fires every year, mostly from smoke inhalation.

Information from: Southtown Star, http://www.southtownstar.com

Posted in Chicagoland, News

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Posted by on November 10, 2009 • No comments

A New Weapon for Hi-Rise Fires-The Hero Pipe

Mount a Master Stream Attack from the Exterior Regardless of Height.

FireDaily has learned that the Chicago Fire Department has been testing a new tool for hi-rise fires. It’s called The Hero Pipe, and it looks very interesting. This nifty device offers an additional tactical option: with access to the floor below the fire floor, you can now mount a master stream attack from the exterior regardless of height.

Some of you may remember the Cook County Building fire at 69 W. Washington St. back in 2003. Master streams were initially ineffective due to the height of the fire floor (12th). The only other alternative was to mount an interior attack with handlines.

After the fire, I was able to talk with the guys in there on those lines. Every single guy I spoke with told me they had never been in a hotter fire- ever. More than one shared the thought that they knew they were not going home that day. They were literally tasked to put out the fire from inside the oven.  Eventually they were forced out and aerial master streams were able to be placed and used with efficacy.

Less than a year later, CFD had the LaSalle Bank fire on the 26th floor, out of reach of ladder company master streams. After an unsuccessful interior attack — again turned back because of high heat and flames — firefighters set up master streams on adjacent rooftops to put enough water through the 26th floor windows to cool the fire so an interior attack could be made.

Perhaps there is a better way.  According to The Hero Pipe website:

With as little as a two person team, the HERO PIPE can be set up for action in minutes. Once the proper attack points have been determined the aluminum manifold is secured to the sill using the rapid action lever clamps. If no sill is available, rest it directly on the floor at any outside wall or directly on the floor. Then secure with a patented hydraulic system between the floor and the ceiling.

The HERO PIPE was created by a veteran fire fighter with 20 years experience in downtown Chicago who recognized the limited capabilities when battling modern high-rise fires. Their product has been chosen as a finalist at the 2009 Chicago Innovation Awards being held on a week from Tuesday at the Goodman Theater in Chicago. Good luck, guys!

Toss this idea in with all the others in my cabinet labeled “Why Didn’t I Think of That?” Anyone have any experience with this device? Let me know!

FireDaily.com has no financial interest in this product.

-J

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Posted in Chicagoland, Tips and Tricks

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Posted by on October 9, 2009 • 9 comments