Volume IV, 2011 Fairfax County Fire... Volume IV, 2011 1

Volume IV, 2011
Volume IV, 2011
1
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
Firefighter Horace C. "Teddy" Pendergrass, April 4, 1962 - October 22, 2011.
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Volume IV, 2011
From The Fire Chief . . .
2
Ronald L. Mastin
“I want to close
by once again
thanking you
for what you do
each and every
day, and wish
you and your
family a safe and
happy holiday
season.”
011 is quickly coming to an
end and I want to once again
thank all of you for working so
hard to ensure our county received the
highest level of services and community
support during another challenging
budget. Even with budget reductions
totaling about 14.8 million dollars the
past three years, each of you met the
challenge with professionalism and a
spirit of cooperation that is reflected
in the many accolades from those we
serve.
For the first time that I can remember,
we had to place units out of service
to make ends meet, but through the
combined efforts of our career and
volunteers we were able to meet the
challenge without compromising
service delivery. While this is certainly
not sustainable, it speaks to the
dedication of all who are part of our
system.
We were able to continue with a
number of major capital initiatives,
including: the raising and rebuilding
of FS-12, Great Falls, which opened its
new doors in mid-November; plans for
the new station in Tysons Corner are
continuing; plans for a major expansion
at the Fire and Rescue Academy; FS-04,
Herndon, rebuild; and, the groundbreaking for a new station at Route 7
and Beulah Road, FS-42, Wolftrap.
We graduated two recruit schools
(the 130th and 131st) and got an ALS
incumbent class in process to bolster
our EMS redesign program, with a
goal of full build-out in four years. We
Ronald L. Mastin, Fire Chief
Dan Schmidt, Editor
Cathy Jo Richards, Layout and Design
© COPYRIGHT 2011
Fairfax County
Fire and Rescue Department
4100 Chain Bridge Road
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-246-3801
also instituted Phase 1 of a “command
competency training” program;
flashover simulated training, and
improved our percentage of patients
arriving at the ER with a pulse.
These are but a few of the many
great things our dedicated personnel
accomplished during very challenging
economic times. Innovation, creativity,
and the ultimate desire to carry out our
vision and mission are a tribute to each
of you and continue to make me proud
each and every day.
We also had a LODD this year and
all of us will remember the “Gentle
Giant,” Firefighter Horace “Teddy”
Pendergrass. The outpouring of
support from each of you and our fire
service community was overwhelming
and greatly appreciated. While it was
truly a difficult time, everyone worked
to honor Teddy’s 20 years of service in
a respectful and professional manner.
Thanks to all that made this a truly
memorable service.
I want to close by once again thanking
you for what you do each and every day,
and wish you and your family a safe and
happy holiday season. v
Happy
Holidays
LINE COPY is the newsletter of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
and is published by the department’s Public Affairs and Life Safety Education staff.
Questions regarding deadlines or publication schedule should be addressed to Cathy
Jo Richards at 703-246-3801. All submissions should be sent to Public Affairs and Life
Safety Education, marked “Attn: Editor, LINE COPY.”
Volume IV, 2011
3
Chairman Bulova Delivers Remarks at Service for Fallen Firefighter
O
ctober 27, 2011 – Chairman Sharon
Bulova delivered the following remarks
at the memorial service for fallen
Fairfax County Firefighter Horace C. "Teddy"
Pendergrass. The funeral was held at Greater
Little Zion Baptist Church and he was laid to rest
at Quantico National Cemetery.
It is an honor to have been asked to be here this
morning to share a few words about Firefighter
“Teddy” Pendergrass. Firefighter Pendergrass
was “Teddy” to his Fire and Rescue family and
“Chris” to his immediate family.
Our entire Fairfax family—and we are a
family—mourns alongside Teddy’s immediate
family and his extended Fire and Rescue
Department family. Just by looking at Teddy’s
portrait you can tell that he was a special
person—his smile, the gleam in his eyes. Teddy
led his life in a way that demonstrated caring and
compassion.
I understand from his colleagues that Teddy
was known as the “gentle giant” for his quiet,
positive, behind-the-scenes actions with his
co-workers. As a firefighter, he helped people
in their time of greatest need. Teddy was a
gifted athlete, playing professional football, and
holding records in track and field. You may not
know that Firefighter Pendergrass was inducted
into the Elizabeth City State University Hall of
Fame in 2009. He was also a world-ranked discus
thrower in the Master’s Division.
As an Army veteran, he served his country,
and he continued to serve at the local and
community level as a firefighter/EMT. I cannot
think of a higher calling than either one of those
professions.
Teddy’s involvement in the Fairfax community
is well-known; he was always at the backpack
drives, and Toys for Tots programs—some of the
same events I attended with him. His community
service extended both on and off duty. The
consummate professional; he was looked up
to by younger firefighters in the firehouse—an
informal and natural leader who had everyone’s
best interest in mind - and at heart.
Fairfax County has lost a wonderful man, and
an inspirational firefighter—someone who kept
us safe. We will miss Teddy and everything
about him. But we sure won’t forget him.
It is my hope and belief that the warm bonds of
support among our Fire and Rescue personnel,
and our larger Fairfax County family, will
provide comfort during this difficult time. Let us
be sure to celebrate what Teddy meant to us and
contributed to what is surely the best Fire and
Rescue organization on the planet. v
(Reprinted from Chairman Bulova's Homepage)
This Issue . . .
From The Fire Chief ..................................................................2
Chairman Bulova Delivers Remarks
at Service for Fallen Firefighter ................................................3
Hazardous Materials Training is Raising the Bar ...................4
Survivor Information Form Is Important,
Should Not Be Taken For Granted............................................6
Volunteer Photos .......................................................................7
2011 Fire Prevention Week Open House Winners ...................8
Community Outreach Program Highlights .............................9
VATF-1/USA-1 Receives International Reclassification ........10
In Memory of Firefighter Horace C. “Teddy” Pendergrass ....12
Pink Hot Shots Supporting 2011 Breast Cancer Awareness .14
Awards and Presentations ......................................................18
Top 10 Activity Report ...........................................................20
Large Loss Fire Investigations ................................................21
“Taking Up” ...........................................................................22
Retirements & Anniversaries .................................................23
Profile, Fire & Rescue Station 19 ...........................................24
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Volume IV, 2011
Hazardous Materials Training is Raising the Bar
By Captain II Milton Painter
Fire and Rescue Station 40, Fairfax Center
V
apor pressure, permeation, ionization
potential, flash point, chemical compatibility and roentgens are some of the
many things studied by the 30 firefighters attending the 80-hour Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
technician certification class at Station 40, in
April. It was the first class since 2007, with the
goal of qualifying firefighters to become members of the HazMat Response Team. It also allowed firefighters to take the HazMat Technician
promotional exam.
Over the course of the ten day class, a wide
range of topics were covered. These included:
understanding chemical and physical properties,
HazMat regulations and standards, health and
safety, personal protective equipment, detection
and monitoring, decontamination, recognition
and identification of containers and products,
various product control techniques and numerous practical exercises. In addition to the academics and skill stations at Station 40, a visit to
the tank farm in Fairfax City, the ethanol transfer
facility on Eisenhower Avenue and the Fairfax
County Police explosives training range added to
the learning experience.
Since the HazMat Response Team became operational in October 1983, monthly HazMat training has taken place in some form. The template
used to determine and plan the training is NFPA
472: Standard for Competence of Responders to
Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents. Ironically, the committee that
developed this standard, established in July 1985,
was chaired by former Fire Chief Warren Isman.
Normally, the training is delivered by members
of the HazMat Team, however, outside instruction and expertise is welcomed. Over the last few
years, the training has been delivered by Fairfax
County Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal
(EOD), Louisiana State University (Public Safety
Sampling Techniques), Counter Terrorism Operations Support (Personal Radiation Pager), Norfolk Southern Railroad, HazMat IQ (from retired
HazMat Team member Joe Gorman), the ATF and
the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force and Hazardous Materials Unit.
Each month, the HazMat Unit trains with personnel at one of the HazMat rescue squad fire
houses. This training is in addition to the monthly team training. It provides more intensive
hands-on experience with material covered in the
monthly drill or other topics that are delivered
The Hazardous Materials Technician Certification Class suit up for a group photo at Fire and Rescue Station 40, Fairfax Center, April,
2011. (Photo by Paul Carlin)
Volume IV, 2011
best in smaller settings. Subjects such as Level A
suit certification and detection and monitoring
are two examples.
For years, our HazMat Team has been able
to send members to various types of “outside”
training, conducted by private vendors or programs funded through federal grants. With a
challenging budget during the last few years,
these opportunities have dried up. However, this
year, the Washington Council of Governments
obtained funding which allows localities in the
region to fill slots created by those attending this
training. Fairfax County has been able to send
members of the team to the following opportunities:
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Firefighters and Police Department EOD use rad pagers to survey
radioactive materials on a vehicle during training.
Frequently, other state and federal agencies
including the FBI Hazardous Materials Unit, the
ATF and the Virginia National Guard 34th Civil
Support Team have requested our team to participate in their hazardous materials or terrorism
related trainings.
Each year, the HazMat Unit and/or the four
HazMat rescue squads deliver the OSHA mandated annual hazardous materials refresher
training for NFPA operations level response
personnel. This training, takes between three to
four hours, focuses on reviewing detection and
monitoring instruments, container recognition
Fairfax Fire and Rescue Department members conduct hazardous and identification, the Emergency Response Guide,
materials training with the 34th Civil Support Team, Virginia and includes a scenario to either reinforce the
National Guard, in Lorton this summer. (Photo by Captain II points covered in the refresher or to cover a new
Milton Painter)
topic of concern in the ever changing world of
hazardous materials, terrorism, and weapons of
- The Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anmass destruction response. v
niston, Alabama, where participants, wearing
chemical protective equipment, work in environments with actual chemical warfare agents.
- Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah, to work
through various scenarios with live biological
agents and actual chemicals.
- The Nevada Test Site near Las Vegas, Nevada,
doing extensive work with detection and monitoring devices for radiological and nuclear materials.
- The New Mexico Technological Institute in Socorro, New Mexico, for a Incident Response to
Terrorist Bombings course.
- The Security and Emergency Response Center
in Pueblo, Colorado, for a Highway Emergency Firefighters from HazMat rescue stations suit up while undergoing
monthly supplemental training.
Response or Rail Tank Car Specialist course.
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Volume IV, 2011
Survivor Information Form Is Important,
Should Not Be Taken For Granted
By Captain II David W. Hall
Health and Safety
W
hile coping with the loss of a loved
one is never easy, an unexpected
death is particularly stressful.
Coping with an unexpected death is more than
a grieving process. It also requires gathering
family members and planning and coordinating
a funeral. What if something should happen to
you unexpectedly? Who is going to take care of
your wishes? Have you talked to your family
or left them enough information to help them
through the process instead of making it more
difficult?
Recent events within the department have
brought to the spotlight the importance of
the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Survivor
Information Form (FRD-017). Although the form
is not a legal document, it does give specific
guidance to department members helping their
family through the emotional decisions that need
to be made during this difficult period. It also
provides for a point of contact that starts the
benefit process in motion.
Please fill out the FRD-017 now or update it
at your next physical. This important and vital
document will make a world of difference to the
ones that love you the most, your family.
For information on will preparation you may
visit www.florianfoundation.org/overview.html.
The Florian Foundation was created post 9/11
and offers advice and other services to public
safety members. v
Letter
of
Appreciation
Volume IV, 2011
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Chip Swicker and Jim
Elder, members of the
Fairfax County CERT
are shown at the Capital
Shield exercise on
Wednesday, October
19th, at the Lorton
facility.Twenty CERT
members participated
during each day of the
two-day exercise as
victims and "citizen
responders."
The 2010 Volunteer Fire Service Awards were presented at the September 13, 2011 meeting of the Board of Supervisors. In attendance
from left to right: (First Row) Special Recognition recipients Kevin Holland, Dave Presson, and Dennis Corl, from Bailey’s Crossroads
VFD and, Allan Pearson, Volunteer Training Coordinator. Officer of the Year, Chief John Morrison, 70 Year Award recipient, Simone
Savia, Supervisor Gerry Hyland, Supervisor Chair, Sharon Bulova, Volunteer Fire Commission Chair, Timothy Fleming, Public Service
Award recipient, Laura Parks, Administrative Officer of the Year, Lawrence Reed, ALS Provider of the Year, Deborah Volker, Firefighter
of the Year, Daniel Sweet, BLS Provider of the Year, Michael Wendt, Rookies of the Year, Stephen Chen and Natalie Potell, Fire Chief’s
Award recipient, Chief Shawn Stokes, Volunteer Liaison, Jeffrey Katz, Dana Powers, Assistant Chief Garrett Dyer, Assistant Chief John
Caussin.
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Volume IV, 2011
2011 Fire Prevention Week Open House Winners
Open House Winner, Battalion 402, Fire and Rescue Station 2.
Open House Winner, Battalion 401, Fire and Rescue Station 36.
Open House Winner, Battalion 404, Fire and Rescue Station 23.
Open House Winner, Battalion 403, Fire and Rescue Station 15.
Open House Winner, Battalion 406, Fire and Rescue Station 11.
Open House Winner, Battalion 405, Fire and Rescue Station 22.
L i n e C o p y can be viewed at
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr
Open House Winner, Battalion 407, Fire and Rescue Station 14.
Volume IV, 2011
Community Outreach Program Highlights
Members from the Fire and Rescue Department along with Fairfax County retirees, and Stephanie Cohen, President of Operation
Warm Marketplace, helped bring over 2,000 new winter coats for children less fortunate to over 50 schools and shelters during
the October 2011 Winter Coat Drive/Distribution.
Twenty-five Brazilian fire department personnel visited the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, November 14, 2011.
The personnel represented the Brazilian Government of the Federal District, Federal District Military Fire Department, and
included chaplains, doctors, and fire department commanders and trainers. In Brazil, the fire department is part of the military
and all personnel receive basic firefighting training. The group will visit several other fire departments on the East Coast. (Photo
by Angela Ballard, Fire and Rescue Academy)
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Volume IV, 2011
VATF-1/USA-1 Receives International Reclassification
By Deputy Chief Keith Johnson
Special Operations
D
uring the last six months, the Fairfax
County Fire and Rescue Department’s
Urban Search and Rescue Team, VATF-1
has been preparing for its INSARAG (International Search and Rescue Advisory Group) heavy
team reclassification exercise. INSARAG was
established in 1991 following International Search
and Rescue teams’ response to the 1988 Armenia
earthquake and is a network of disaster prone
and disaster responding countries and organizations dedicated to urban search and rescue from
collapsed structures. In 2006, VATF-1 applied
for and received INSARAG classification after
successfully demonstrating proficiency to meet
the strict standards set by INSARAG. This classification is valid for five years and requires a full
administrative review and a full team three-day
exercise.
Beginning October 18, 2011, and ending October 23, 2011, VATF-1, known internationally as
USA-1, successfully completed the INSARAG
exercise and administrative review required to
obtain heavy team certification through 2016.
The purpose of this exercise was to evaluate
USA-1’s urban search and rescue capabilities as
they pertain to an international disaster. It also
fulfilled the field exercise portion of the INSARAG External Reclassification process, as well
as met the operational readiness requirements as
stated in USA-1/VA-TF1’s statement of work with
USAID/OFDA and DHS/FEMA. The exercise
scenario centered on a 7.9 magnitude earthquake
lasting approximately 3 minutes. The earthquake
provided heavy damage to the city’s buildings
causing numerous deaths and injuries with
many trapped in collapsed structures. USA-1
was simulated to be the first international search
and rescue team to arrive with the expectation of
setting up a Reception/Departure Center (RDC),
travel to the affected area, coordinate and liaise
with the Local Emergency Management Authority (LEMA), set up a base of operations (BoO),
CIRT Demonstration
Lieutenant Rodney Vaughan participates in the INSARAG
reclassification exercise.
VATF-1 members conducted a demonstration on a newly
presented Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) from the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, November 9, 2011,
at the Academy. VATF-1 members have been testing the
tool for more than one year and now have two of the tools in
their equipment cache for response to disasters. The CIRT
is a 100 pound, 36-inch long, concrete buster that is capable
of breaching reinforced concrete and works up to four times
faster than traditional methods. Developed in partnership
with Raytheon. (Photo by Angela Ballard)
Volume IV, 2011
11
Fire and Rescue Station 38, West Centreville, shows off their newly built dinner table featuring the department’s station patches.
The round table weighs about 400 pounds, seats at least 11, with the base and top made of two wooden wire spools donated from
a cable company that was laying replacement wire for the Stone Road widening project, near the firehouse. Department patches
encircle the edge of the table with the station’s patch spotlighted in the center of the table. Metal diamond plate edging provides
the trim to the outer edges of the top and bottom pedestal.
establish an On-Site Operations Coordination
Center (OSOCC), and begin on-site operations.
In accordance with the INSARAG guidelines,
it was determined that USA-1 successfully met
those goals and objectives.
This accomplishment is a direct reflection of the
dedication of the department’s US&R personnel
and the support of department personnel in assisting with backfills and overtime opportunities.
We should all be proud of what “teamwork” can
VATF-1 members took part in a three-day reclassification exercise,
October 18 - 23, 2011.
accomplish and continue to work together as we
move VATF-1/USA-1 forward. Please join with
me in congratulating our Fairfax County Urban
Search and Rescue Task Force on their accomplishment. v
HOT SHOT
Crews from E422, E426, R426, M422, M437, EMS 405, and
BC 405 responded to a two-vehicle and Jersey barrier crash,
November 14, at approximately 2 p.m., on I-95 south just
prior to the Fairfax County Parkway. Crews cut off the roof
to extricate an adult female trapped in the front seat. She was
transported to INOVA Fairfax Hospital. (Photo by Battalion
Chief Edith Eshleman)
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Volume IV, 2011
Volume IV, 2011
It is with deep sadness that we mourn the Line of Duty Death of Firefighter Horace Christopher "Chris"" "Teddy" Pendergrass on Saturday, October 22, 2011. We are truly thankful for his service and send our
sincerest condolences to the Pendergrass family. Firefighter Pendergrass was assigned to Fire and Rescue Station 41, B-Shift. The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department was fortunate enough to have Teddy
join its ranks over 21 years ago. During his tenure at Annandale, Woodlawn, and Crosspointe Fire Statio
ons, he helped county residents during their worst and greatest times of need. We will miss you Teddy.
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Volume IV, 2011
Volume IV, 2011
Pink Hot Shots Supporting 20111 Breast Cancer Awareness
The Board of Supervisors pose for a photo with department memberrs, including crews from Fire and Rescue Station 40, Fairfax Center,
and other supporters of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 18, 2011, in the Board Auditorium. (Photo by Lisa Connors, Office of
Public Affairs)
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Volume IV, 2011
Volume IV, 2011
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Volume IV, 2011
Awards
&
Presentations
Unit Citations
Stabbing
Engine 417
Captain I Charles A. Martin
Master Technician Deborah G. Sparrer
Acting Technician Shawn M. Rappach
Firefighter Brian K. McNew
Medic 417
Technician John R. Mudge
Firefighter Ali R. Mirzai’i
Lieutenant Marc S. Davidson received the Liberty Mutual Firemark Award for
outstanding community service and public education, Wednesday, October 12,
2011, at the beginning of the monthly promotions ceremony. Joe McConnell,
Liberty Mutual Insurance, third from left, presented the award. From left to
right: Deputy Chief Keith M. Johnson, Special Operations, Lieutenant Marc S.
Davidson, Joe McConnell, and Assistant Chief John J. Caussin, Jr., Operations
Bureau. (Photo By Angela Ballard, Fire and Rescue Academy.)
20-Year Safe Driving
Master Technician Gregory D. Washenko
Technician Barrett E. Gibbs
Technician Charles A. Harman
Technician Joseph A. Jones
Technician Leo T. Sullivan
15-Year Safe Driving
Master Technician John F. Linhart
Master Technician Timothy W. Palmer
Technician Scott E. Herbert
9-Year Safe Driving
Master Technician John G. Adams
Master Technician Mark G. Briskey
Master Technician Jaemohn D. Cloyd
Master Technician Thomas A. Ferguson
Master Technician William L. Franklin
Master Technician John M. Hoffman
Master Technician Timothy D. James
Master Technician Dawn C. Kerns
Master Technician Christopher N. Lee
Master Technician Christopher M. Morgan
Master Technician Robert J. Pilsucki
Master Technician Hector J. Rivera Flores
Master Technician Jason M. Roberts
Master Technician Dana R. Unger
Technician Warren H. Artis
Technician Mark C. Baban
Technician Ronnie N. Briscoe
Technician Robert J. Desousa
Technician Carl E. Drew
Technician Michael O. Feaster
Technician Joel M. Fry
Technician Linwood M. Frye
Technician James M. Furman
Technician In Sung Hwang
Technician Katja H. Lancing
Technician Sean A. Powell
Technician Davine M. Williams
Technician John H. Woodward
Firefighter Marlon J. Crocket
Firefighter Antjuan D. Proctor
Technician John H. Woodward
6-Year Safe Driving
Assistant Chief John J. Caussin, Jr. presents promotional certificates to Captain
I David K. Sellers and Captain II Ralph M. Pisani during the Promotional
Ceremony, October 12, 2011, in the Massey Building A-Level Conference
Center. (Photo by Angela Ballard, Fire and Rescue Academy)
Master Technician Ronald G. Bauserman II
Master Technician Joseph M. Laun
Master Technician Ji Young Lee
Master Technician Laurie E. Peverill
Master Technician Steven T. Onufrey
Technician Michael D. Brown
Technician Shawn M. Crisp
Technician Andres Collado
Technician Robert D. Hicks
Technician Ian M. Kelly
Technician Scott L. Kraut
Technician Duane E. Lawrence
Volume IV, 2011
19
Technician Javier M. Lopez
Technician Jason R. Munt
Technician Easton Peterson
Technician Laura E. Pollard
Technician Dustin Q. Reynolds
Technician Daniel M. Sova
Technician Spencer L. Spinner
Technician Robert J. Sweeney
Technician Jeffrey W. Tincher
Technician Giovanni Vasquez
Technician William F. Ward
Technician Michael R. Worthington
Firefighter Anthony M. Clayborn
Firefighter Lauren E. Costello
Firefighter James R. Hill, II
Firefighter Jenna A. Jackson
Firefighter Steven D. Sprague
Firefighter Robert C. Young
Firefighter Peter G. Zagorites
3-Year Safe Driving
Master Technician Bruce J. Stark
Technician Joshua R. Allen
Technician Michael L. Baldino
Technician Sean P. Berg
Technician Gregory R. Bishop
Technician Christopher M. Blair
Technician Mario A. Board
Technician Kerri S. Bouse
Technician Ian R. Brill
Technician Jose C. Chavez Paredes
Technician Shelita R. Green
Technician Antwaun L. Hawkins
Technician Bryan C. Knupp
Technician Jin S. Lee
Technician Minh Toan H. Nguyen
Battalion Chief Jerome A. Roussillon, presented a plaque to Lieutenant Charles
F. Adams, Jr., Fire and Rescue Station 36, A-Shift, for 30 years of dedicated
service, October 7, 2011.
Technician Duane P. Tenney III
Technician Frances J. Webb
Technician Craig M. White
Acting Technician Katherine S. Stoner
Acting Technician Stephanie K. White
Firefighter Ariel R. Banagan
Firefighter Rebecca A. Beisel
Firefighter Marc G. Campet
Firefighter Crystal Z. Chapman
Firefighter Howard S. Chong
Firefighter Vicki L. Clary
Firefighter Charles J. Cox
Firefighter Clyde J. Davis
Firefighter Corey D. Diamond
Firefighter Brian D. Foster
Firefighter Tanya D. Hall
Firefighter Timothy D. Kim
Firefighter James C. Kenney
Firefighter Nathan R. Larkin
Firefighter Michael D. Lee
Firefighter Heather J. Lefever
Firefighter Clyde B. Monroe, III
Firefighter Colin T. Morgan
Firefighter Gregory M. Merryman
Firefighter James A. Moss, Jr.
Firefighter Roger A. Perdomo-Cortes
Firefighter Lorna D. Reid
Firefighter Placido Sanchez
Firefighter Javier A. Santa Gadea
Firefighter Ryan E. Scanlan
Firefighter Rodney D. Washington
Firefighter Rachel L. Wicker
Firefighter Bryant L. Wiggins
Firefighter Adam R. Wright
DIT GIS Excellence Awards
Most Significant GIS Data Contributor
Chief Ronald L. Mastin presents promotional certificates to promotees during
a promotional ceremony, September 13, 2011, in the Massey Building A-Level
Conference Center. Pictured Left to Right: Lieutenant Philip C. Deveraux,
Technician Jason R. Munt, Lieutenant Jason R. Abitz, Captain I Timothy
E. Fowler, Chief Ronald L. Mastin. (Photo by Angela Ballard, Fire and Rescue
Academy)
“Fire Box Creation and Determining
Dispatch Order”
Katherine E. Good, IT Section
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Volume IV, 2011
On September 6, 2011, Fire and
Rescue Station 9, Mount Vernon,
B-Shift, and other nearby sixth
battalion members, provided
comfort and a resting spot for
riders of the Brotherhood Ride,
commemorating the loss of the
"Charleston Nine" firefighters,
the largest loss of life in the fire
service since the 9/11 attacks.
The 37 bikers started in Naples,
Florida on August 20, and ended
at Ground Zero, in New York
City on September 11. Riders
consisting of firefighters and police
officers were provided with snacks,
Gatorade, a place to freshen up,
and encouragement.
Top 10 Activity Report
July - September 2011
Ambulance
Unit
A 408
A 409
A 410
A 411
A 422E
A 421E
A 414E
A 405E
A 402E
A 401E
Calls
482
473
433
426
130
71
59
47
37
36
Medic
Unit
M 422
M 410
M 430
M 409
M 413
M 425
M 411
M 428
M 429
M 405
Calls
630
626
596
591
582
581
578
576
563
553
Engine Company
Unit
E 430
E 410
E 411
E 409
E 408
E 422
E 429
E 413
E 404
E 401
Calls
769
756
754
745
743
742
721
666
613
604
Ladder Company
Unit
T 429
T 425
T 410
T 422
TL 4 3 0
TL 4 4 0
T 436
T 411
TL 4 0 1
TL 4 0 8
Calls
511
478
450
422
419
391
367
359
312
284
Rescue Squad
Unit
R 426
R 401
R 418
R 421
R 411
R 419
R 439
R 414
Calls
409
382
368
368
318
276
268
267
Battalion Chiefs
& EMS Captains
Unit
Calls
EMS 4 0 5
461
EMS 4 0 2
448
EMS 4 0 4
348
EMS 4 0 3
341
EMS 4 0 1
324
EMS 4 0 6
292
BC 4 0 4
247
EMS 4 0 7
222
BC 4 0 2
208
BC 4 0 3
183
Unit activity is compiled from the event history file. A unit must be dispatched
to a call or added on to be counted. Mutual aid dispatches are included in the
activity report.
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Deadline
The deadlines for the
upcoming 2012 issues of
Line Copy are no later
than February 15, May 15,
August 15, and November
15. Please submit articles
or text to Dan Schmidt
at Dan.Schmidt@
fairfaxcounty.gov or
Cathy Richards at Cathy.
Richards@fairfaxcounty.
gov.
Volume IV, 2011
Large Loss Fire Investigations
Date: 8/6/2011 Box: 20-00 Address: 10606 Belmont Boulevard Type: Residential
Cause: Undetermined Value: $6,403,040 Loss: $515,000 Status: Inactive
Date: 8/7/2011 Box: 12-00 Address: 10107 Nedra Drive Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $954,725 Loss: $200,000 Status: Closed
Date: 8/8/2011 Box: 17-08 Address: 5265 Prairie Willow Way Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $355,095 Loss: $57,500 Status: Closed
Date: 8/12/2011 Box: 32-11 Address: 11515 Suburban Place Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $291,290 Loss: $50,000 Status: Closed
Date: 8/13/2011 Box: 22-07 Address: 7501 Hooes Road Type: Commercial
Cause: Accidental Value: $250,000 Loss: $150,000 Status: Closed
Date: 8/26/2011 Box: 14-05 Address: 9308-Willow Pond Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $334,755 Loss: $167,377 Status: Closed
Date: 9/11/2011 Box: 25-05 Address: 11518 Underoak Court Type: Residential
Cause: Undetermined Value: $343,110 Loss: $65,000 Status: Inactive
Date: 9/16/2011 Box: 19-33 Address: 8749 Bitterroot Court Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $667,740 Loss: $55,000 Status: Closed
Date: 9/23/2011 Box: 04-11 Address: 1546 Kinstream Circle Type: Residential
Cause: Accidental Value: $475,000 Loss: $70,000 Status: Closed
Date: 10/16/2011 Box: 41-07 Address: 10410 Dominion Valley Drive Type: Residential
Cause: Under Investigation Value: $885,000 Loss: $885,000 Status: Open
Mt. Vernon-Lee Chamber of Commerce recognized police and firefighters during an awards ceremony, September 8, 2011. (Left
Photo) Pictured left to right: Technician Paul Corso, Fire and Rescue Station 5, C-Shift, Captain I Kendall Thompson, Fire and
Rescue Station 37, C-Shift, Chief Ronald L. Mastin, and Lieutenant Miranda Lambermond, Fire and Rescue Station 9, B-Shift.
(Right Photo) Lieutenant Timothy Walker (retired), Fire and Rescue Station 5, A-Shift.
21
22
“Taking Up”
Line Copy
of everything that technology
and money can buy.
Will miss about the Fire Department: Mostly everything,
to include all of the great
people (past and present) that
make the FRD the top notch
organization that it is today.
Captain I
The good meals served up by
Steven J. Blount
some outstanding firehouse
chefs as well as the home
Entry Date: September 29,
away from home atmosphere
1975
Retirement Date: September that firehouse life presents.
Plans for the future: Slow
26, 2011
Recruit School Number: 38 down a bit and get adjusted to
this thing called “retirement”
Assignments: EOC, 11, 26,
Recruit School, 26, 25, 14, 18, after 36 years, it’s not going
to be easy... Continue to travel
PIO, 22, 14, 27, and
with my wife as we have for
MPSTOC.
the last seven years in order to
Likes about the Fire Depart- maximize our multiple time
shares. When not vacationing,
ment: First and foremost,
work for the Van Metre Comfeeling as you’ve made a
panies in their Commercial
positive difference at each
and every incident and citizen Property Management Divicontact that we’ve had. Hav- sion.
ing come to work for the FRD Words of wisdom: TEAMWORK, don’t forget it! This
in the mid 1970s and having
is a profession where teamstayed until now has allowed
work is just as, if not, more
me to see the resources that
important than it is for the
we had in the early days
compared to now, both mate- members of a sports team.
Treat your co-workers with
rial and financial. Obviously,
research and technology have respect and always remember
played a major role in the ad- that each one of you through
teamwork may have to depend
vancements that we have enjoyed in Fire and EMS opera- on one another on the very
next incident that you respond
tions and techniques, includto. Train at every opportunity,
ing our tools and equipment,
apparatus, gear and uniforms. don’t allow yourself or your
co-workers to become comThe department has the best
Volume IV, 2011
placent, we all can always
learn something more than we
knew the day before. This is
a dangerous profession; you
must look out not only for
yourself, but also for those
around you. Train and learn
to be on the leading edge of
safety for yourself, your coworkers and your family.
What got you interested in
the fire service? My dad, Jim
Blount, was an active volunteer fireman in Christiansburg,
VA and Woodstock, VA, who
was instrumental in the Southwest Virginia Volunteer Firemen’s Association as well as
the President of the Virginia
Firemen’s Association when I
was a kid growing up; I guess
it was in my blood due to his
interest and involvement.
Who or what made an influence in your career? Again,
my dad Jim, through his involvement at the state association level introduced me to the
then Fairfax County Director
of Fire and Rescue Services,
George Alexander, and it was
he who granted me my start to
this great ride. My wonderful
wife Corinne, who put up with
every imaginable shift work
schedule possible, who for 32
of my 36 years was always
supportive of my goals and
endeavors. As well, over my
many years there were many
others to whom I’m most
Volume IV, 2011
23
Retirements
Captain I Steven J. Blount
September 29, 1975 - September 24, 2011
Master Technician Eric D. Moore
September 21, 1981 - October 2, 2011
Anniversaries
5 years
Firefighter Stanley A. Jones
Maura M. Ardike, Management Analyst I
Firefighter Adriean L. Lipscomb
Brenda K. Bauman,
Firefighter Jorge M. Martinez
Management Analyst I
33 Years
Firefighter Gregory M. Merryman
Firefighter Michael B. Brown
Firefighter Eugene W. Beach
Technician Eddie L. Price
Firefighter Rosemary E. Burnett
Captain II James T. Harrison III
Technician Jacob L. Quirke
Deputy Chief Michael T. Reilly
Firefighter Richard A. Cantarella
Firefighter Julie A. Ray
Firefighter Gage E. Chalmers
Technician Christopher L. Rinderknecht
25 years
Firefighter Vernon T. Corbin, Jr.
Technician Damian C. Ripley
Firefighter Sergio I. Cueto
Lieutenant Ben A. Dye
Technician Benjamin H. Roadruck
Matthew W. Davis, Financial Specialist I
Captain I James B. Johnson
Firefighter Brian M. Snyder
Firefighter Andrew G. Dubinsky
Lieutenant Jeffrey F. Klopp
Firefighter Peter Torres
Technician Stephen A. Haines
Captain I Joseph Palau III
Reny M. Varghese, Network/
Technician Antwaun L. Hawkins
Captain I Matthew P. Ryan
Telecommunications Analyst I
Technician Adam C. Heming
Technician Clarke V. Slaymaker II
Bruce A. Webb,
Firefighter Magaly I. Hernandez
Captain II Lorenzo M. Thrower
Administrative Assistant V
Firefighter Baatarjav Javkhlan
Master Technician Gregory D. Washenko
Firefighter Brandon M. Winfield
34 Years
Lieutenant Michael P. Regan
grateful to for the knowledge
that they shared with me that
has helped to make me the
individual that I am today to
include: Chester Chinn, Chip
Rollison, Jim Small, Doug
Turner, Mike Goode, Mark
Wheatley, Jack Brown, Gary
Clowser, Bob Lanning, Gus
Connery, Mike Tamillow,
Kenny Hunsberger, Bobby
Rhea, Ron Deskins, Tom
Wolfe, Pam Weiger, Ed Burlingame and last but not least,
Chris Hunter. It has truly been
an honor to have learned from
this group as well as the many
others that I had the distinct
pleasure of working with over
my career.
Letter of Appreciation
L i n e C o p y can be viewed at
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fr
L i n e C o p y can be viewed at http://www.fairfaxcounty.
gov/fr
24
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Fairfax County Fire & Rescue Department
Attn: Public Affairs and Life Safety Education
4100 Chain Bridge Road
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Volume IV, 2011
PRST STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT 45
FAIRFAX, VA
Station Profile
Lorton
Fire and Rescue
Station 19
Captain II
E. Martin Ranck
Station Commander
Station constructed: 1961
Station specialty: Hazardous Materials
Volunteer Chief
Response Team
Earl Curtis
Square miles in first due area: 10.75
Specific hazardous/target areas: Norman M. Cole Pollution Control Plant, Covanta Energy Corporation,
Alexandria Metal Finishers, Amtrak Auto Train and VRE, Belvoir Woods Retirement Community, Saratoga
Elementary School, South County High School, Lorton Station Elementary School, Laurel Crest Middle School,
Davis Industries, I-95 Solid Waste and Resource Recovery.
Total calls in 2010: 3,318
Equipment assigned: Engine, Medic, Rescue, Brush, Utility, Volunteer Chief SUV, and Chaplain’s SUV
Station personnel: A-Shift: Captain II Martin E. Ranck, Lieutenant David A. Hessler, Master Technician
Raymond K. Beaver, Jr., Technician Gerald D. Butler, Technician Michael W. Conover, Technician Kristopher
W. Johnson, Technician Robin M. Lotz, Firefighter Ferris A. Hayward, Firefighter Robert L. Reid. B-Shift:
Captain I Mark P. Menton, Lieutenant Glenn C. Jackson, Master Technician Gregory B. Barnett, Master
Technician Daniel C. Mitchell, Sr., Technician Nathanael E. Perkins, Technician David D. Sweetland, Technician
Chaz Z. Takacs, Acting Technician Romel B. Williams, Firefighter Baatarjav Javkhlan. C-Shift: Captain I
Kenneth G. Geffen, Lieutenant Matthew D. Black, Master Technician Robert A. Clarke, Jr., Master Technician
Jay W. Smith, Technician Ronald E. Franklin, Technician Michael D. Guck, Technician John S. Wehr, Technician
Harold B. Wolf, Firefighter Medic Richard L. Forte, Firefighter Mary Kate Costello, Firefighter Wesley J. Sloan.