May 16, 2009 - Units were dispatched for an accident with
injuries on Southbound George Washington Parkway prior to the Columbia
Island. After cutting away a large amount of brush the
occupant of the vehicle was able to be removed from the car with only
minor injuries.
At 1003 hrs on May 6, Box 7209 was
sounded for a reported house fire at 5331 N. 5th St. bringing E103
(Capt. Warren), 108 (Capt. Wirtz), 102 (Lt. Tirelli), and 428 (Lt.
Mongold) TWR 104 (A/Lt Updyke), T106 (Lt. Krechting), R104
(Capt. Williams), M102 (Capt. Gowen), EMS 111 (Capt. Vitale), CA
(Command Aide) 114, and B112. Shortly thereafter ECC reported to
units responding that PD was on the scene reporting a working
fire. E103 arrived first, laying out from 5th St. and Greenbrier
St., to find a 1 story SFD of ordinary construction
with heavy smoke showing from side Adam. The fire was located on
the first floor bedroom in the Baker quadrant with extension
to the hallway and attic. Units operated on the scene for a
little over an hour and B112 (Bonzano) had Command.
Article by Captain Bingham Photos
by Lt. Kramer
NATURAL GAS EXPLOSION
May 7, 2009 - The following video is a dramatic
documentation of the powerful forces generated by a natural gas
explosion that occurred across the River in Prince Georges County, MD.
Fortunately, no firefighter or civilian lives were lost in the blast,
although 8 firefighters were transported to the ER for a variety of
non-life threatening injuries. This is a type of call we respond
to on almost a daily basis. Often times a report of a gas leak
(inside or outside) is treated as a routine incident which creates a
certain level of complacency. Arlington is not exempt from this
type of explosion. We have had several single family homes
completely destroyed by natural gas explosions as well as the
Lee-Harrison strip shopping center. This is a good time for all
crews to take a few moments and reflect on how lucky PGFD was and
listen to the proactive actions initiated by units on the scene.
How do YOU handle natural gas leaks? How are YOU going to handle
them now?
FIRE AT THE GREEN
VALLEY PHARMACY
April 22,
2009 - At 2104
hrs Box 7904 was sounded for a reported structure fire at the Green
Valley Pharmacy 2415 Shirlington Rd. The assignment brought E109,
107, 101, 105 T105, 203, R109, B111, 212, EMS111, CA and the DFM.
E109 (Act Lt. Hagan) marked on the scene of a 1 story commercial with
smoke showing from side Adam. Crews from 109 advanced inside the
store where they located the fire in stored materials in the Baker
Charlie quadrant. E107 (Lt. Hughes) had the water and backed up 109
with 101 (Capt. Alvarado) taking the rear and secondary water. E105
(Lt. Brightbill) had the RIT, R109 (Capt. Devers) conducted the
primary search which was negative. T105 (Act Lt. Bryant) ventilated
and overhauled the fire area. B111 (Chief Smith) had Command. A
quick and aggressive attack prevented further extension.
Story and Photos from Captain Bingham
USEFUL LINKS
I want to thank the individuals who recently sent me the
updated links for the Arlington County GIS Mapping Center Fire Box
Maps. Click on the links below to view the maps.
March 26, 2009 - Check the
Videos page for
several new additions. Thanks to Firefighter Werner Ennesser
for the new videos.
APARTMENT FIRE
March 24, 2009 - At 1019 hours Box
7117 was dispatched to 921 S. Buchanan St for the report of a
structure fire. The assignment brought E101, 109, 107, and 410,
T410, T104, R109, M101, B111, 112, EMS 111 and Safety 114.
Engine 101 (Captain Eversburg)
marked on scene of a 3 story brick garden style apartment with
heavy smoke showing from the first floor entrance on side Adam.
They stretched the 200' and advanced to the fire apartment on the
#2 floor. E109 ( Acting OIC Guice) picked up the water and backed
up 101. E107 (Lt. Hughes) established secondary water and
stretched a line above. E410 picked up 107's hydrant and assumed
the RIT. Several occupants were on the balconies of the upper
floors on the Charlie side and were brought down over ground
ladders by TK410 and TW104 (Lt Shupe). R109 (Capt. Devers) and
crew completed the primary of the fire apartment and floor above,
which was negative. The fire involved the living area and was
knocked down in short order. Due to the heavy smoke conditions
and ladder rescues, 2 additional medics 104 and 109 and 2
additional engines 102 and 106 were special called. Captain
Eversburg of E101 suffered a knee injury and was transported by
M101. We wish him a speedy recovery. B111 (Chief Smith had
Command)
Story and Photos from Captain Bingham
EXTRICATION
At 1707 hours box 7005 was
dispatched for an AWI at the intersection of Lee Highway and
Veitch St. bringing E110 and M110. While enroute ECC notified
E110 that they were receiving reports that one person was trapped
and that they were adding a rescue and EMS 112. Shortly after,
ECC reported that the PD was on the scene reporting one minor
injury and that the extrication unit was being canceled.
E110 arrived and Capt Lyon
reported that he had 2 patients, 1 with trauma, requested a rescue
(104), an additional medic unit (104), and established Lee Highway
Command. R104 (Capt Williams) and crew removed the drivers door
on one of the vehicles and two patients were treated and
transported.
Story and Photos from Captain Bingham
VICIOUS ATTACK ON
NORTHSIDE
February 12, 2009 - At noon today Engine 108 and Medic 106 were
dispatched for a "medical trouble unknown" call at 1800 North Edison
Street, in 108's first due area.. Units arrived and found an
adult female laying on the sidewalk in a large pool of blood. As
the units began to assess the patient it became quickly evident that
she had been stabbed numerous times. The assailant was still on
the scene and threatened Engine 108 and Medic 106's crews with a large
kitchen knife. ACPD arrived quickly and chased the assailant to
the rear of the building where he stabbed himself numerous times in
the abdomen and neck. Medic 106 and Engine 108 treated the
female patient, who died from her injuries. Engine 102, Medic
102 and EMS 112 treated the alleged assailant. He was
transported to a local trauma center.
According to WJLA7 the male suspect, 53-year-old Milton Earl
Shepheard was arrested, police said. The woman, who police identified
as 51-year-old Mona McAllister, was taken to an area hospital
where she was pronounced dead. The investigation is ongoing, but
police say it appears as though the victim and the attacker knew one
another and that the crime is an isolated incident.
APARTMENT FIRE ON
SOUTHSIDE
Article submitted by FF John Hughes, 9-C
At shift change on Thursday February 5, 2009
Box 7109 was sounded for an apartment fire at 629 South Walter Reed
Drive. Communications advised that multiple calls were being
received that advised smoke on the 1st and 3rd
floors. Unites dispatched were E101, E109, E161, E102, Tower 104,
Truck 105, Rescue 109, Medic 101, EMS 111, Battalions 111,112 Safety
114 and FM 114.
E109 (Lt. Santini, Driver F/F J Hughes, F/FT
Decalzo, F/F Laub and F/F Joyner) arrived at the intersection of
Walter Reed Drive and South 7th street and dropped a
supply line. Engine 109 put their rig on the sidewalk
and drove across the court yard and arriving at the front door of a
3 story garden apartment with nothing showing. They advanced
the 200 1 ¾" line and entered the building finding a strong odor of
class A material and a hot door on the first floor. As
the fire apartment door was forced an elderly female entered the
hallway from a neighbor’s apartment. With quick thinking Engine
109's crew shut the door and F/F Laub assisted the female outside.
She was actually the occupant of the fire apartment and had gone to
the neighbor’s apartment to report the fire. Engine 109 then
reopened the door and found heavy heat and smoke conditions. Lt.
Santini communicated that he had Collier’s Madison conditions
(hording conditions). 109's crew advanced their line to the back
bedroom and hallway where the fire was located and quickly
extinguished.
Tower 104 followed Engine 109 up into the
courtyard where they searched and placed ladders to the windows.
They assisted one female down a ladder that was unable to
escape due to the smoke in the public hallway. Lt. Burrell,
F/F O, Bryant, F/F Zepeda, F/F Corbino
Rescue 109 started to vent Capt. Cook, F/F
Mayhew. F/F Orloski, F/F Bowen
E101 picked water supply and pulled the 150’
1 ¾ line as back up Capt. Paches, F/F Crooke, F/F Smith, F/FT Cuence
Engine 161 pulled the 300’ to the floor
above
Engine 102 had the RIT Capt Moore, F/F
Rodgers, the other 2 ?
Truck 105 Vented the Charlie side
Battalion 111 Chief Tobias had the Walter
Reed Command
Medic 109 F/F Easton and F/F Lane
Medic 101 treated the elderly female and
transported her to the hospital. F/F Yamanaka and F/F Dwyer
HOUSE FIRE ON
NORTHSIDE
February 6, 2009 As crews were sitting down to
dinner Communications dispatched the box alarm for a reported
house on fire at 2227 North Lexington Street, in Engine 106's first
due. Engine 106 arrived to find heavy fire showing from an
attached porch on the "Delta" side of a 1-1/2 story Cape Cod home.
Engine 106 stretched the 200' 1-3/4" line through the front door and
were backed up by Engine 108. The fire was quickly knocked down
with minor extension into the home. Battalion 112 (Chief Insley)
had Lexington Street Command.
January 28, 2009 - Retired
Captain Elbert F. Green, Jr., was born May 13, 1927, began work with ACFD
on November 1, 1962 and assigned to Station 8. He retired in June of
1989. We have so many great memories of this true gentleman who was
respected by all. Captain Green spent the majority of his career on
the Northside, particularly at Station 8 and 3. His territory
knowledge was second to none. He not only knew every street, alley and
shortcut he could also tell you the color of the house, the name of
the owner, the name of their kids and the their pets. You could
never stump him on a territory drill. He was an all-around
firefighter.
The
members of the ACFD offer our condolences to the family and friends of
Captain Green.
A Wake
will be held at Lomax AMZ Zion Church, 2704 S. 24th Road, Arlington,
VA on Tuesday February 3 at 10:00 AM where the Service will be at
11:00 AM. Interment will be at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in
Annandale VA.
Rest in
Peace, Cap
Captain Elbert F. Green, Jr.
HISTORICAL DISCOVERY
January 25, 2009 - On June 13th, 1943 Engine Company 2 from the
Ballston Volunteer Fire Department was responding on a fire call in
the Rosslyn area of Arlington. As the 1929 American LaFrance
pumper sped east on Wilson Blvd. it encountered an oil slick in the
road which caused the engine to careen out of control and strike a
utility pole near Custis Road. The force of the impact seriously
injured Fireman George Skidmore of the Ballston VFD. Sadly,
Fireman Skidmore soon succumbed to his injuries, making him the third
line of duty death for
the Arlington Fire Department. The other members of the engine
company suffered non-life threatening injuries.
Let's move forward to the Spring of 1975......32 years after the
death of Fireman Skidmore. Metro was gearing up to start
construction of the brand new Ballston Metro Station.
Numerous homes and businesses in the Ballston area were being
demolished to make way for the new subway station including the
Ballston Volunteer Fire Station at 911 North Stuart Street and a
single family home at 1011 North Stafford Street.
Why the mention of a single family home on North Stafford
Street? Prior to demolition of this house several members of the
ACFD were training in the house, similar to what we do today on vacant
homes. While in the basement one of the Firefighters, Frank
Higgins, noticed a wallet laying on the floor. He picked it up only to find the shock of his life. The
wallet belonged to Fireman George Skidmore, who had died 32 years
earlier!
Upon inspecting the wallet's contents Higgins discovered a
time capsule and brief glimpse into the life of Fireman Skidmore.
Inside were found several items including his Selective Service (draft
card) Registration, vehicle insurance card, Ballston Volunteer Fire
Dept membership card, a District of Columbia Motor
Vehicle Operators Permit, a Commonwealth of Virginia Motor
Vehicle Operators License showing that he was born in November, 1897
stood 5'7" and weighed 170 pounds. There was also a photo
of Fireman Skidmore, the only photo of him known to exist.
This was quite a discovery and another important piece of the
Arlington Fire Department history.
Fireman George Wilmer Skidmore November
1897 to June 1943. Third line of duty death for the
.Arlington County Fire Department
This is the scene of the accident on June 13,
1943 that claimed the life of Fireman George Skidmore.
Click on the photos below to view the contents of
the wallet.
Thanks to Frank Higgins for sharing this incredible
find.
HOUSE FIRE IN NORTH
ARLINGTON
January 24, 2009 - At 1529 hours Communications
dispatched the box assignment to 6352 North 12th Street, in 106's
first due area. Engine 106 arrived on the scene with fire
showing from an attached carport of a two-story wood frame single
family dwelling. Several lines were stretched and the fire was
quickly contained with no civilian or firefighter injuries.
January 23, 2009 - Around 1130 hours Fairfax Communications sent
a box assignment to the Shell Gas Station at 6660 Arlington Blvd (at
Annandale Road) for the structure fire. The first unit on the
scene reported heavy fire showing from the garage bays and requested a
2nd alarm. Units operated for almost two hours to bring the fire
under control. Three employees of the gas station were treated
for a variety of injuries. Units from Arlington that responded
were Engine and Truck 106 on the first alarm and Engine 102 on the
second alarm.
January 16, 2009 At 2135 hours Communications dispatched
the box assignment for a reported building fire in the area of
Arlington Mill Drive in the Shirlington area, in 109's first due.
As the units approached the scene it quickly became apparent that the
fire was involving "The Hut" and the E-One pumper located at the
Arlington Fire Training Academy on South Taylor Street. The rear 1/3
of the hut was heavily involved along with the majority of the pumper.
Engine 107 laid out from a hydrant on Taylor Street and began an
attack on the fire. Engine 109 picked up the water supply and
assisted with the backup line. Shortly after the fire was
knocked down the fuel tank on the engine erupted into a huge fireball
which could be seen from blocks away. Engine 107 used foam to
contain and extinguish the fuel fire. The Arlington Fire
Marshals Office was on the scene to investigate the cause and origin.
Battalion 111 (Liebold) had command.
Is it possible that a fire truck can be cursed? In the
case of the Training Academy Engine it is very likely. Engine
111 started life in 2002 assigned to Engine 110. Shortly after
entering service it was involved in a serious rollover accident on
Route 110. The rig was then returned to Florida for a complete
refurb. When it returned to the County it was plagued by a
multitude of on-going mechanical problems. It was assigned to the Fire Training
Academy in 2006 where it served until being destroyed by fire.
The cursed rig as Engine 110 in 2002.
Rollover on Rt. 110 shortly after delivery in
2002.
EXTRICATION IN
CHERRYDALE
January 15, 2009 - At approximately 1445 hours units were
dispatched for a auto accident at Lee Highway and North Thomas Street,
in 103's first due. An east bound vehicle lost control, crossed
into the west bound lanes and struck a tree. Luckily, the tree
prevented the vehicle from plummeting to the school soccer field 25
feet below. Units performed the extrication of the driver under
precarious conditions. The occupant was transported to a local
hospital for treatment.
January 11, 2009 - Shortly after 2100 hours Communications
dispatched Arlington units on the 2nd alarm for a residential
high-rise at 3800 Powell Lane in the Baileys Crossroads section of
Fairfax County. The fire involved an apartment on the 9th floor
and eventually went to 3 alarms. Arlington units were released
around 2230 hours.
Units on the call: Engine 102, 107, 106, Truck 106, Medic 102
and Battalion 111.
Lakeside Plaza Condos, 3800 Powell Lane
Some research revealed these photos of a
fire at 3800 Powell Lane while under construction in 1983.
Photos by the late Wes Gerald.
2 ALARMS WITH
MULTIPLE RESCUES
January 6, 2009 - Following the 2nd alarm in 102's area
earlier in the shift, Communications dispatched the box assignment to
1523 Fairfax Drive, in 110's first due, for the structure fire at 0447
hours. Engine 110 arrived on the scene of a three (3) story +
basement multiple occupancy dwelling of ordinary construction with
heavy smoke showing and multiple victims showing from the windows.
The building housed 15 apartment units. A second alarm was
requested along with additional medic units. The fire, located
in the basement storage room filled the public hallway with heavy
fire, thick black smoke and high heat. This cut off the only means of
egress for all building occupants. There were 16 rescues
performed over ground ladders and several trapped occupants were
"picked-off" by Tower 104 in the rear. There were two
occupants that elected to jump, resulting in several serious injuries
including a fractured femur. It was reported that several
children were dropped out windows to those waiting on the ground.
Engine 103 located and removed an unconscious male from a third floor
apartment. A total of 40 occupants either self-rescued or
required rescue.
Engine 110's crew took a beating while advancing their 200'
1-3/4" through the front door and down the stairs to begin a knock on
the storage room fire. Engine 161 stretched the backup line and
assisted with extinguishment.
Many of the 2nd alarm units were tasked with assisting with EMS
care of the occupants. Several additional medic units were
requested along with two additional engines and a truck. All
hands were kept busy bringing this incident under control. Local
2800 members can be proud of the excellent work on this incident which
resulted in the saving of many lives.
Battalion 112 (Blankenship) had command while Battalion 111 (Liebold)
had Interior Operations. The Arlington Fire Marshals Office is
currently conducting an investigation into the origin and cause of the
fire.
Thanks again to the American Red Cross and the Falls Church VFD canteen unit.
View from side A. Rescue 109's crew waiting for a victim to
be carried out by Engine 103's crew. The smoke is coming from the
storage room window.
This is Engine 103's crew as they removed an unconscious male
from a third floor apartment to Rescue 109's crew. Great job 103!
TOWNHOUSE FIRE ON
NORTHSIDE
January 5, 2009 - At 2009 hours communications dispatched units
to 1180 North Vermont Street, in 102's first due for the report of a
townhouse fire. Engine 102 laid out from 11th and Vermont
Streets and arrived on the scene of an end unit three (3) story
+ basement townhome of lightweight construction. Heavy fire was
showing on side C from a second floor window and had already extended
into the third floor. Engine 102's officer requested the 2nd
alarm upon arrival. The occupant of the home advised that
everyone was out and the fire was located in a bedroom on the
second floor. E102's crew stretched the 200' 1-3/4" through the
front door and were quickly followed by Engine 101's crew with the
backup line. The decision was made that E101 would take the #3
floor while E102 took the #2 floor. Heavy fire conditions
were found in the second floor bedroom which was knocked down rather
quickly. E101 found extension into the knee-wall area directly
above the fire which they extinguished. Truck 106 and Tower 104
opened up for the engines. The fire was brought under control
within ten minutes. A Firefighter from Tower 104 was transported
to Virginia Hospital Center with a hand laceration. He was
treated and released. At last report he was seen rumaging
through A and C shifts refrigerators looking for something to eat.
Battalion 112 (Blankenship) had command while Battalion 111 (Liebold)
had interior operations. Special thanks to the Red Cross and the
Falls Church VFD canteen unit.
2nd alarm: Engine 106, 110, 109, Truck 410, Light and Air 103
Conditions on side C prior to the arrival
of Engine 102.
Thanks to Joe Lowry for above
photo.
HOUSE FIRE ON
SOUTHSIDE
January 2, 2009 - At 1120 hours, as units were clearing a
box alarm on Columbia Pike, Communications dispatched the first house
fire for 2009 at 5033 South Chesterfield Road, in
107's first due. Engine 107 arrived on the scene with light
smoke showing from a small 1-1/2 story single family dwelling of
ordinary construction. As they stretched their line through the
front door the fire "took off" on the first floor. Engine 107's
crew with assistance from Engine 410 knocked the fire down rather
quickly. While the interior crews were putting water on the fire
the Truck crew opened the roof. All occupants of the home
escaped without injury. Battalion 111 (Tobias) had command.
View from Engine 102 as they approached the scene.
LIGHTWEIGHT
CONSTRUCTION FUELS FIRE
December 7, 2008 - At 1234
hours communications dispatched units to 124 Rolling Trace, in the
City of Falls Church, for a structure fire. Truck 106 arrived first
on the scene to find a garage unit three-story above grade,
middle-of-the-row townhouse of lightweight construction with heavy
fire showing from the front door on the first floor. Heavy smoke was
pushing from the the second and third floors. Truck 106’s officer
met with the occupant that advised everyone was evacuated and
accounted for and that there was ammunition in the garage that was
detonating. Shortly after their initial report, Truck 106 advised
that the interior stairs had collapsed and requested a second
alarm. Fire was now through the roof and the operation was declared
defensive. Five minutes after the arrival of the first units the
entire third floor collapsed to the second floor.
Numerous exterior handlines, a RAM monitor and the ladder pipes from
Truck 106 and 410 were used to bring the fire under control.
Units were immediately deployed into the B and D exposures and
aggressively opened up to check for fire extension. The fire
separation walls between the units performed very well resulting in
only minor fire extension. The blaze was brought under control
within 30 minutes. Crews utilized ground ladders and handlines
to extinguish remaining hot-spots. Battalion 112 (Blankenship)
had the command. The only injuries were sustained by the
occupant of the home.
Other
units on scene Light and Air Unit, Command Unit.
Several
Fairfax Units filled Arlington Stations. E430, 401, 408 429.
Not sure of all fill-in units.
SMALL FIRE IN BALLSTON
METRO STATION
December 4, 2008 - At 2306 hours Communications dispatched units
to the Ballston Metro Station, in 102's first due, for a reported fire
in the station. Engine 102 arrived on scene and advised there
was smoke at the platform level that smelled electrical in nature.
As they investigated the source, Tower 104 established phone contact
with Metro Operations Control Center (OCC). They confirmed that
power was removed on both inbound and outbound tracks. Rescue
104 placed the WASAD's in service. Engine 102 determined the
source of the smoke to be coming from a third rail insulator.
With the fire confirmed out, the focus was turned to remove the large
amount of smoke in the tunnel and platform areas. This was
accomplished using the station fan shafts. One train , with an
operator only, was held in the station during the incident. Once
the smoke was cleared the incident was turned over to Metro officials.
This is the amount of smoke that was created by
the burning third rail insulator.
HEY, TAXI
November 21 - At 0830 hours Communications sent units to 950
North Stafford Street, in 102's first due, for a pedestrian struck.
Units arrived to find an adult female that was thrown over 30 feet
after being struck by an out-of-control taxi cab. Apparently,
the gas pedal and brake pedal confused the driver because after
hitting the victim, and the Hilton Hotel, he continued to depress the
"brake" which caused the car to keep spinning its tires after striking
the building. The victim was treated and transported by Medic
102 to a local trauma center.
Units on the call: Engine 102, Medic 102, EMS 112
Members of Local 2800 work to stabilize the victim
before transport.
DOUBLE FATAL ON I-66
November 17 - A wrong-way driver on Interstate
66 caused a crash Monday morning that killed two women and injured
three other people, police said.
Two cars collided on the highway shortly after
2 a.m. near the Washington Boulevard overpass in Arlington.
A 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse was traveling
westbound in the eastbound lanes of I-66 when it crashed head-on
into a 2003 Toyota Corolla, police said.
The 35-year-old male driver, of Falls Church,
and two female passengers in the Corolla were transported to a local
hospital. The man's injuries are not life-threatening, police said.
The two women were later pronounced dead. Neither woman has yet been
identified.
The driver and passenger in the Eclipse --
both 17-year-old boys from Fairfax County -- were also taken to the
hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the
crash. The incident remains under investigation and charges are
pending against the 17-year-old driver of the Mitsubishi.
The roadway was cleared before the morning
rush.
All eastbound lanes of I-66 were open to
traffic by 4:50 a.m.
photo from NBC4.com
PROMOTIONS
November 6 - Congratulations to the following members on
their well-earned promotions which become effective November 9th.
Gil Cook to Fire/EMS Captain II
Mike Gowen and Nick Salameh to Fire/EMS Captain I.
DINNER-DANCE
November 2 - The Annual Local 2800 Dinner Dance was held
last night at the Sheraton Crystal City. Over 100 members and
guests enjoyed dinner, dancing and karaoke until midnight. A
large group then marched through Crystal City to finish off the
evening at the CC Sports Pub. Thanks to Chris Devers, Chuck Guice and
Tom Woody for putting this years event together. A good time was
had by all and we are looking forward to next years party!
Below are some of our members and their guests
having a good time.
Tom Woody and Mimi Konoza enjoy the first dance of the evening.
Medic 325 was our special guest.
FIRE STATION 7 CLOSED
TEMPORARILY
Arlington County Fire
Department (ACFD) is temporarily closing Fire Station #7 (Fairlington)
for about two weeks – to abate an asbestos problem in the station. No
health effects have been reported.
During the temporary closure,
all Fire Station #7 assets – Engine 107 and firefighters – will be
relocated to Fire Station #9 (Walter Reed Drive, Nauck), less than a
mile away.
Fire response maintained
ACFD will draw on its entire
fire system of 10 fire stations to continue to provide 4-minute
response to Fairlington and the entire County. The County’s response
includes robust mutual aid from regional partners, including City of
Alexandria’s nearby Fire Station #53.
The asbestos situation
Recently, Fire Station #7
experienced a problem with water seeping into the building through an
exterior wall. The cause of the water seepage problem was diagnosed
and is being repaired.
However, the water caused mold
problems, which ruined the carpeting and is a serious health concern.
When we lifted the carpeting in the lower living area, we found old
tiles underneath. A test of these tiles has revealed the presence of
asbestos, which must be safely removed.
Since the tiles have been
covered by carpeting, there has been no exposure or health threat to
firefighters or visitors.
The abatement
Safety procedures mandated for
asbestos abatement require the temporary closure of the building and
relocation of all personnel.
We will close Fire Station #7
from Nov. 3 until approximately Nov. 14. Engine Company 107 (including
firefighters) will move to Fire Station #9 on Walter Reed Drive. ACFD
expects to maintain its 4-minute response time for the
community.
The
Dept. of Environmental Services is overseeing the entire project to
repair the water problem, replace the carpeting, and abate the
asbestos.
TRENCH FATALITY
October 24 - Around 1430 hours this afternoon Communications dispatched units to
860 North Greenbrier Street in 102's first due for the report of a
trench collapse with entrapment. Engine 102 arrived on the scene
and found a male construction worker buried to his chest and having
extreme respiratory distress. Unfortunately, the Arlington
and Alexandria Technical Rescue Teams were attending a training class
outside of the County at the time the call was dispatched. The
next closet Technical Rescue Team was from Station 414 in the Burke
area of Fairfax County. Unfortunately, with the degree of
entrapment the construction worked succumbed to his injuries prior to
being extricated.
FIRE IN 104'S FIRST
DUE
October 23 - At 0954 hours Arlington Communications dispatched
units to 738 North Nelson Street in 104's first due for a report of
smoke coming from an apartment. Tower and Rescue 104 arrived on
the scene of a two-story garden style apartment with smoke showing
from a second floor window in the rear. Engine 110 was the first
arriving engine. They took their own hydrant and stretched the
200' 1-3/4" line to the fire apartment. Rescue 104 has already
forced the apartment door and they located a fire in the kitchen which
was quickly knocked down by Engine 110's crew. The fire was
confined to the refrigerator and surrounding walls. The Rescue
conducted a search of the apartment while Tower 104 vented.
Adjoining apartments were checked and searched. Battalion 112 had the
command while Battalion 111 was Operations on the fire floor.
The ACFD Fire Marshals Office is investigating.
Units on the call: Engine 110, 161, 108, 107, Tower 104, Truck
105, Rescue 104, Medic 104, Battalion 112, 111, EMS 111
REMEMBRANCE
October 24 - This month is the 44th anniversary of the
Line of Duty Death of Captain Archie Hughes. Captain Hughes was
killed in a flashover after becoming trapped in the attic of a home at
2362 North Nelson Street on October 19th, 1964. He is the Uncle of Firefighters John and Steve Hughes
and the Great-Uncle of Firefighter Will Farrell. Please take
a moment to remember Captain Hughes sacrifice.
Captain Archie Hughes
Fellow Firefighters worked frantically to locate Captain Hughes
after learning he was trapped in the attic.
VINYL FIREFIGHTERS: Arlington County's Old
Engine 72 served as backdrop for the ``Fanning The Flames" album
by the blue grass band Dry Branch Fire Squad. This scene is at
Station No. 2 on Wilson Boulevard in the late 1970s or early
1980s. For the newer members of the ACFD this is "Engine
150" that sat outside at the Fire Training Academy.
from The Arlington Fire
Journal
STATION 9's APPARATUS
- 45 YEARS AGO
These were the front-line pieces of apparatus that ran out of
Station 9 in 1963. The photo, snapped in April 1963, shows Wagon
9's 1958 GMC-American LaFrance 750 gpm pumper and Engine 9's 1949 Ward
LaFrance 750 gpm pumper (ex-Wagon 1)
Wagon 9's 1958 GMC-American LaFrance 750 gpm pumper.
Scroll down and you will see what this rig looks like in 2005.
PASSING OF CAPTAIN
McGLATHERY
October 14 - Retired Captain Tom McGlathery has passed away
following his recent hospitalization. The members of the
ACFD offer our deepest condolences to the McGlathery family.
Below is his obituary and arrangements. RIP Capt.
McGLATHERY THOMAS
EDWARD On Tuesday, October 14, 2008, of Arlington, VA. Beloved
husband of Louise McGlathery; loving father of Christine Wells of
Dumfries, VA, Michelle Staton (Joe) of Stafford, VA, Melissa Cohen of
Las Vegas, NV and Angela McGlathery of Arlington, VA; son of the late
Joseph and Dorothy McGlathery. Also survived by six grandchildren and
a host of friends. Friends may call at the MURPHY FUNERAL HOME OF
ARLINGTON, 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA, on Sunday, October 19
from 4 to 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday,
October 20, 10 a.m. at The Cathedral of St.Thomas More, 3901 Cathedral
Ln., Arlington, VA 22203. Interment Columbia Gardens Cemetery. In lieu
of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to The Cathedral of St.
Thomas More
CONDOLENCES
October 9 - On Saturday morning, October 4th Engine and Medic
101 were dispatched to the residence of retired Captain Tom McGlathery.
They found him unresponsive and initiated ALS care. He was
transported to Virginia Hospital Center, Arlington where he was placed
on a ventilator in the ICU. Updated information on October 14th
advises that Capt. McGlathery is still unresponsive. Captain McGlathery retired from the
ACFD in the early 1990's.
On Tuesday, October 7th, the mother of retired Battalion Chief
Ralph Darne passed away following a long illness. The members of
the ACFD offer our condolences to the McGlathery and Darne families
during this difficult time.
ACFD HISTORY
UNCOVERED
October 5 - Resting peacefully at an auto junk yard in Roanoke,
VA, Engine 7's 1951 Ward LaFrance 750 gpm pumper has been located after
leaving Arlington almost 30 years ago. This rig served as Engine
7 from 1951 until 1969. It was then run a reserve engine until
disposed of in the early 1970's. In 2005 Engine 2 and
Engine 9's 1958 GMC-American LaFrance pumpers were found at a junk
yard in Culpeper, VA.
Engine 7's 1951 Ward LaFrance 750 gpm pumper.
Photo by Mike Sanders
This was all that remained of Engine 9's 1958
GMC-American LaFrance
Engine 2's 1958 GMC-American LaFrance was in much worse shape.
Unfortunately all three of these rigs have been recycled (shredded).
POLICE OFFICER
SHOT
September 23 - An Alexandria Police Officer can thank his
body armor for saving his life tonight when he was shot on Northbound
395 at South Glebe Road in Arlington. The officer performed at
traffic stop around 20:00 hours and, while returning to his cruiser,
was shot in the chest by the vehicle driver. A rookie police officer who was riding with the officer
witnessed the incident unfold and was able to call in shooting and
provide a description of the vehicle. A brief chase ensued until
the suspect vehicle crashed on 395 near the 14th Street Bridge. As SWAT
officers approached the suspect vehicle the occupant was found dead from a
self-inflicted gunshot wound. The injured officer was flown to a
local hospital and is being treated for non-life threatening injuries.
In a bizarre twist, the shooters wife was later found shot
to death in her apartment in the 2000 Block of Columbia Pike.
Units on the call: Engine
109 Medic 109 EMS 111 (for the officer) Alexandria Battalion 212
EMS 232 and Rescue-Engine206 added to the call. Medic 110 and
EMS 112 responded to assist PD with the bad guy. Light and Air
103 responded to assist the PD with lighting.
Navy Secretary presents Pentagon steel to
Arlington officials
from Arlington County website
On Sept. 11, 2008, Secretary of the Navy Donald C.
Winter presented steel from the Pentagon 9-11 crash site
to Arlington County Board Chairman J. Walter Tejada.
Arlington County will donate the steel to be displayed in the the
soon-to-be-commissioned USS Arlington.
The USS Arlington (LPD-24), along with the USS New York and the
USS Somerset, were named to commemorate the September 11, 2001
attacks.
In September 2005, the Navy held a ceremony at the Pentagon to
name the
USS Arlington and the USS Somerset
in honor of the heroes and victims of the Pentagon attack and the
flight downed in Pennsylvania. The ceremony also honored the
sacrifices of those who provided critical assistance both during and
after the attack of September 11, 2001, including the emergency, fire,
and rescue personnel of Arlington County.
The Arlington and Somerset are the latest additions to the
San Antonio Class of amphibious transport dock ships--the first to
be designed from the keel up. This class is set to replace 27
amphibious ships from the three classes of amphibious ships now in
service. An earlier ship of the same class, the USS
New York, was named for the World Trade Center victims in
New York. With an overall length of 684 feet, the San Antonio Class
ships are designed to accommodate 1,200 sailors and Marines and their
equipment.
The USS Arlington is currently under construction and is
scheduled to be commissioned in 2011. It is being built to honor the
heroes and victims of the September 11, 2001, attack on the Pentagon
Two previous
vessels have been named Arlington. The first was a steel-hulled C1B
type cargo ship operating during World War II. The second USS
Arlington was a 14,500-ton major communications relay ship, originally
commissioned in July 1946, which saw heavy use during the Vietnam War,
including helping with communications during a June 1969 conference
between U.S. President Nixon and Republic of Vietnam President Thieu.
The 684-foot-long
amphibious transport dock ships will be built by Northrop Grumman Ship
Systems in New Orleans and will each carry a Navy crew of 363 and 699
Marines. The ships will be used to transport and land Marines, their
equipment and supplies by embarked air cushions or conventional
landing craft or amphibious vehicles, augmented by helicopters or
vertical take off and landing aircraft in amphibious assault, special
operations, or expeditionary warfare missions.
The ships will
also incorporate the latest quality of life standards for the embarked
sailors and Marines, including the sit-up berth, ship services mall, a
fitness center and learning resource center and electronic classroom
with the flexibility to accommodate mixed gender sailors and Marines
as part of the crew and embarked troops. The design team also
incorporated hundreds of suggestions and recommendations from more
than 1,000 sailors and Marines in the design for ownership process to
ensure that these ships will meet their needs throughout the first
half of the 21st century.
Assistant Chief
Wilbur Gray has been appointed to the Commissioning Committee.
Also, the Arlington Fire Department has been asked to contribute
something from the ACFD to be displayed along with the steel.
Chief Schwartz has asked that if any members have ideas or suggestions
on what we could display to please let him know.
Steel from
the Pentagon that will be displayed onboard the USS Arlington
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR CHIEF SPINK' DAUGHTER
BOSWORTH BARBARA J. "Bobbie" On
September 13, 2008, of Alexandria, VA. Devoted wife of Thomas L.
Bosworth. Daughter of Wanda Spink and Jack and Marge Spink. Also
survived by a brother, Barry Spink (Chris); two sisters, Bonnie
Spink Kay (David) and Leslie Bassich and a host of other relatives
and friends. Friends may call Thursday, September 18, 2008 from 6 to
9 p.m. at EVERLY-WHEATLEY FUNERAL HOME, 1500 W. Braddock Rd.,
Alexandria, VA, where services will be held on Friday, September 19
at 11 a.m. Interment will be held at a later date in Portland, OR.
Donations in her memory may be made to The Animal Welfare League of
Alexandria, 4101 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, VA 22306.
www.everlyfuneralhomes.com
September 16, 2008 - ARLINGTON, Va - An Arlington County fire
station wants to know who took a vital piece of firefighting
equipment right out of the firehouse.
Now law enforcers from all over the area on are on the
lookout.
The first sign of a firefighter is a big red truck, but when
they get out, their uniforms give them away.
So when a firefighter here at fire station 8 realized two
uniforms were missing, police started looking for them. The question
now is who took them and does that put the public at risk?
There are times that people really do judge a book by its
cover. If they see a person in uniform, they assume that person's
legitimate.
One night last August, someone took two uniforms from a
firefighter washing clothes in fire station 8. At first, the
firefighter thought a colleague mistakenly took the uniforms, but
when that didn't seem to be the case, the station filed a police
report.
"[It] took a lot of daring I say, you have to be very daring
to walk into a place where you don't belong," said Jose Valdiviesr.
"I get concerned about the purpose of stealing uniforms. It
seems like their value is not the value of the cotton or the wool,
it's what you could do with them," said Fairfax resident Mike Fenili.
That concern is exactly why Arlington County firefighters told
area police and emergency responders to be on the lookout for anyone
wearing a uniform who doesn't seem to fit in.
Firefighters say that whenever they show up to your house they
will always be in teams, never one person alone.
So far there are no reports of firefighter impersonators. But
no one is taking for granted the fact that uniforms meant to do good
- could do harm - in the wrong hands.
One of the difficult things about solving this mystery is that
the firehouse is largely open to the public, with people stopping by
all the time. There are no security cameras that may have captured a
uniform thief on tape.
COUNTY
MANAGER & LOCAL 2800 DIFFER
Carlee Acknowledges Issues, But
Says Firefighters Are Compensated Fairly
by SCOTT McCAFFREY, Staff Writer (from the Sun Gazette)
September 16 - County Manager Ron Carlee on Sept. 13 responded
forcefully to complaints by county firefighters that they were being
short-changed when it comes to pay and benefits.
Carlee told County Board members that Arlington's firefighters will be
among a select group upon their retirement: most will receive more
than 100 percent of what they were paid when they worked for the
county, if retirement benefits and Social Security payments are added
together.
That makes county firefighters among those who hold “one of the very
few occupations in the country” that receive such healthy retirements,
Carlee said.
The county manager's comments came after he was on the receiving end
of criticism from the head of the county firefighters' union, who said
Carlee was not doing enough to support public-safety personnel.
Union chief Mike Staples said the county government, which touts
itself as an “employer of choice,” is in reality “a leader in bad
policy for employees.”
Carlee and Staples have longstanding differences over pay and benefits
for county public-safety employees. This Sept. 13 go-around was a bit
subdued from their last tussle, at a County Board meeting in October
when tempers flared.
Carlee ran down a litany of improvements he said had been made for
firefighters in Arlington, from a lower retirement age to more
promotional opportunities. He acknowledged that improvements in pay
had been put on the back burner this year.
“Our attention [next year] will focus on compensation,” Carlee said,
while warning that it would be a “challenging” budget year.
“The challenge for us is striking the right balance . . . ultimately,
we have to make business decisions,” Carlee said.
Staples has threatened to take his case over the heads of County Board
members directly to the public. Few board members seemed to want to
get involved in the tussle on Sept. 13.
But County Board Vice Chairman Barbara Favola did try to strike a
balance.
“Compensation was something we couldn't deal with last year, but we
have to look at it,” she said. “Decisions have to be made on a
priority basis, year by year.”
September 15 - The members of the ACFD offer our deepest
condolences to retired Assistant Fire Chief John "Jack" Spinks on the
recent loss of his daughter, Bobbi Bosworth. Our thoughts and
prayers are with you Chief during this difficult time.
Read Washington
Post article.
FOOT PINNED
UNDER MACHINE
September 13 - This morning Engine
103 and Medic 104 were dispatched to 4121 North 21st Road, in 103's
first due, for an injury. Engine 103 arrived to find a miniature
front end loader that was overturned. The loader had the foot of
a male patient pinned between the machine and the concrete window
well. Rescue 104 was requested to the scene for the extrication.
The patient was quickly removed using an air bag and cribbing.
Medic 102 transported to a local hospital.
Units on the call: Engine 103,
Medic 104, Rescue 104 and EMS 112.
Photos by FF Jesse Reeve
EXTRICATION ON
NORTHSIDE
September 11 - At 0950 hours units
were dispatched to North 26th Street and Old Dominion Drive, in 108's
first due, for an automobile accident. This intersection has
been the location of numerous accidents over the years. Engine
108 had command while Rescue 104 and Truck 106 performed the
extrication of one occupant.
Units
that responded were E108 E103 R104 T106 M102 M106 SA114 EM112 B112
Photos by FF Jesse Reeve
FREAK ACCIDENT
ON THE SOUTHSIDE
September 11- Shortly after 1400
hours a driver failed to negotiate the curve on Walter Reed Drive as
he approached South Glebe Road. The vehicle jumped the curb,
went airborne and landed on the front porch of a house. Initial
reports indicated an entrapment however, when the units from 109
arrived it was determined that there was no entrapment. They
provided patient car and stabilized the car. This was the same
house that was struck several years ago when a prisoner in custody
managed to drive away in the police paddy wagon and lost control after
being struck by a barrage of bullets fired by officers. This
spectacle was witnessed by the stunned crew at Station 9!
BODY FOUND ON
TRACKS
September 11 - At 2236 hours
Engine1 105, Medic 105 and EMS 111 responded to the railroad
right-of-way behind 1501 Crystal Drive on a medical run. Upon
arrival they found the body of an adult male with severe injuries
incompatible with life. Train traffic was helted while the ACPD
investigated the cause.
From Sun-Gazette
by SCOTT McCAFFREY, Staff Writer
Sept. 9, 2008
A plan to augment Arlington County's seven emergency-medical
services (EMS) ambulances with an eighth unit for peak times will have
to wait until the government's budget situation improves.
Fire officials had hoped to bring the unit into service over the
summer, but pulled back the idea due to “serious budget constraints,”
Fire Chief James Schwartz said.
The proposed eighth unit, which would have operated weekdays when the
system is most overloaded, was not included in the fiscal 2009 budget
adopted by the County Board. But, given an increasingly high level of
service calls, Schwartz earlier this year tried to find a way to add
it.
“I tried to see if it was possible to create the additional unit with
existing resources,” Schwartz told the Sun Gazette. “I ultimately
determined that it wasn't possible.”
Schwartz cited increasing personnel costs, due to
higher-than-anticipated turnover, for his decision to scrap the
proposed eighth unit. He said he will wait until the fiscal 2010
budget process to request the new medic unit.
The extra unit has long been sought by some safety advocates and the
Arlington Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association, which
represents many firefighters.
They point to “paramedic burnout” and the increasing number of times
that the county government runs out of available medic units over the
course of the year.
ACFD3.COM GETS A
FACELIFT
September 8 - As you may have noticed, ACFD3.com has received a facelift. We have several new "correspondents"
who will help keep ACFD3.com updated with timely news and information
from around Arlington. Please check back for frequent updates.
Feel free to submit any articles, news or photos for inclusion on the
website. Stay Safe.
DON'T FORGET THE
UNION STORE
September 8 - Just a reminder to all Local 2800 members that the
Union Store is alive and well at Station 2. We just received a
new delivery of embroidered Local 2800 items. Check out the
website and don't
forget to stop by Station 2 and buy some stuff!
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT
YOU'VE SEEN IT ALL.......
Recently units from the Northside responded to a bicycle
accident along the Custis Bike Trail. They arrived to find a
male cyclist that was thrown from his bike after getting a gray
squirrel jammed in the front forks. Fortunately the cyclist
survived his injuries but the squirrel was DOA.
Fire
Union Still Angry Over Benefits Changes
From
Sun-Gazette
by SCOTT McCAFFREY, Staff Writer
September 5, 2008
Having run into what they say is a brick wall with the county
manager, leaders of the county firefighters' union plan to take their
case directly to the County Board on Sept. 13.
And, if they don't get satisfaction, they are going directly to the
people.
“We want citizens to understand,” said Mike Staples, president of the
Arlington Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association, which
represents many of the county's firefighters.
He said that, barring unexpected support at the County Board level,
his members would start an outreach campaign to civic organizations
and neighborhood groups, to press their concerns.
At the County Board's Sept. 13 meeting, County Manager Ron Carlee will
offer changes to the current benefits package for a host of county
employee groups, including public-safety personnel. While the changes
for the general workforce are seen as an improvement, public-safety
unions say changes to their retirement and health care are a big step
backward.
“We are far less competitive [in attracting new personnel] than we
were this time last year,” said Staples, who has led the union for 20
years. “You can't just go on with the status quo.”
The board meeting could turn into a repeat of an episode last October,
when firefighters (and some police) showed up to criticize Carlee's
priorities, suggesting in the process that he was acting in bad faith.
Carlee shot back at his critics in what, for him, was a rare display
of public temper.
County officials say the changes that have been proposed will, on
balance, benefit workers while keeping costs in line.
“The total compensation program is both financially sustainable over
the long-term, and competitive in the region,” Deputy County Manager
Barbara Donnellan said. “It comes at a time when other jurisdictions
are unable to increase benefits.”
The new plan is “more than fair to public-safety employees,” Donnellan
said.
The proposal being sent to the board by Carlee is in line with
decisions made during the spring budget season. Staples acknowledged
there was virtually “zero” chance that board members would deviate
from Carlee's proposal.
“I don't think they'll do anything,” he predicted, but expressed hope
that board members would speak up, directing Carlee to respond to the
concerns being raised.
“We're looking for this County Board to start managing the manager,”
Staples said.
Firefighters who retire after 25 years receive annual retirement pay
of 2.7 percent of their base pay, multiplied by the number of years of
service. Until the beginning of 2008, the rate was 2.2 percent
multiplied by years of service.
But the change has not been made retroactive to the original date of
hire; it only affects future years that are worked. For a firefighter
with 20 years of service already and five years to go, making the
change retroactive would have boosted ultimate retirement pay about 10
percent per year.
Firefighter union officials want the change made retroactive, and want
consideration of a proposal to reduce the retirement period to 22
years. They note that, in Arlington, a firefighter who works 25 years
on the force logs 72,800 hours on the job, equivalent to 35 years in a
9-to-5 environment.
HOUSE FIRE IN
102'S FIRST DUE
July 5 - At 1958 hours Communications dispatched units for the
house fire at 734 North George Mason Drive in Engine 102's first due.
Engine 102, with Lt. Christman, arrived with smoke showing from the
roof of an older 1-1/2 story single family dwelling. Engine
102's crew stretched the 200' 1-3/4" and checked the first and second
floors, finding only light smoke conditions. Rescue 104 went to
the second floor and began opening the walls and ceiling at which time
conditions begin to deteriorate with heavy smoke and high heat but no
visible fire. The fire was located in the "knee-wall" area and
concealed floor space. Truck 106's crew opened the roof which
improved conditions for the crews working on the interior.
Heavy, brown smoke issued from the vent holes followed shortly by
heavy fire. Engine 108 arrived 2nd due and stretched the 300'
1-3/4" from Engine 102 and entered the structure. They found
heavy fire in the ceiling area on the first floor in quadrant B/C
which they quickly extinguished. Engine 103 stretched the 150'
1-3/4" from Engine 102 and stood by on Side C. Battalion 112
(Chief Insley) had command. Two additional Engine and a Rescue
were requested. Engine 102 cleared the scene at 2334. The
Arlington Fire Marshal's are investigating.
Units
on the call: E102, 103, 108 & 428, T106 & TW104, R104, M102 & M110,
B112 & 111, EMS112, SA114. Additional units: R418 (RIT), E106 & 110.
TOWNHOUSE FIRE
IN 102's FIRST DUE
July 2 - At 1205 hours units were dispatched to 1130 North
Randolph Street for the townhouse fire. Engine 102 arrived with
light smoke showing from a middle-of-the-row 2 story + basement
townhouse of lightweight construction. The fire was primarily
contained within the walls after a plumber accidentally jack-hammered
through the main electrical line in the basement floor. Fire
quickly spread to the attic via the interior walls. Due to
blistering outside temperature a second alarm was requested to relieve
interior crews. The was confined to the townhouse of origin.
Units on the 1st alarm: E102, 103, 110 & 101, TW104, T106, R104,
M102, B112 & 111, EMS 112, SA114
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