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Our dispatchers rock!

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It happens more often than not here lately but yesterday, all HELL broke loose!

Severe thunder storms hit the valley yesterday evening and lightning strikes,  flash flooding  and working fires soon followed.

It was chaos!  EVERY truck in the city was on the road. Our first run had us heading from the edge of North West to the out skirts of South West (all the way across town).

Companies were running wires down, fire alarms, flooding incidents, lightning strikes and one actual working fire! Again, EVERY company in the city was rolling on multiple incidents with several more in the Que.

We’ve got less than a handful of dispatchers and each company / incident has to be assigned a tac channel etc. Multiple communications back and forth. Each officer thinking what he has to say is more important than the next. Officers  wanting to “self dispatch” themselves to incidents.. take “this” rig off that incident , add “me” to it, “I’m closer than they are” etc …. CHAOS !

Our dispatchers did one hell of a job!

These folks never get their due credit or even a simple THANK You. For what it’s worth … I appreciate it. Lucky for us, we had a good shift on yesterday. Actually, the best as far as I’m concerned. The “Fire” dispatcher has been on the job for some time now. I love to hear her on the radio. Her voice calms and reassures me. I know she is listening and paying attention. She followsand knows whats happening. Although she remains professional and has never called me by name on the radio, I think we are comfortable enough with one another that she could and neither of us would notice.  Our “Tac channel” dispatcher from yesterday does a very good job as well. He hasn’t been on the job as long but I hope he sticks with it. Good dispatchers are hard to find.

One of my sisters (Sarah)  used to dispatch in the City. I can remember the first “working fire” where she was the dispatcher and I was 1st due. It was back in 2000 and I was Captain of the “old” Engine #3 on A-shift. I marked a “working fire” from the station due to the volume of smoke and location (Mountain Ave … approx 4 blocks from the station). I have a recording of that incident and listen to it on occasion still today. She was a good dispatcher (she’s now a Deputy Sheriff) . She had an understanding for the job yet had to sit there and listen to her big brother “doing it” and keep her cool. She did … and multiple times after that as well. Like I said … good dispatchers are HARD to find and we’re lucky to have a few!

Anyway, I just wanted to take a minute to say  THANK YOU  to ours and to remind you to do the same for yours. The next time your sitting around the station bitching about pay, benefits etc; think about these folks. They (ours anyway) are locked in a dungeon, minimal lighting and contact with the outside world at the very BOTTOM of the pay scale and our safety (lives) depend on them doing a good job.

For pics and to learn more about our E 911 Center  click HERE

If you’re worried about how things worked out … hey … WE’RE THE ROANOKE FIRE DEPARTMENT! All incidents were handled in a timely manner. Nobody was injured or killed, the flood waters went down and the “Southies” put the fire out (GREAT Job Captain Mike Armstrong, Engine Co. #8 and other responding units). “Rookie Randy” did fine as well … he was prepared for ANYTHING!

 LMAO ! Don’t worry “Moma Randy” … I’m taking good care of him!

Thank a dispatcher … Stay Safe and In House!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 31, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, technology-communications, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Randy’s Moma …

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I haven’t met her yet but Im sure Randy’s moma is proud … if not, she should be.  Me? … I’m undecided as of yet.

Now, don’t get me wrong … I like him. He’s eager to learn. Open to new ideas and challenges. He has adapted well to change and is a genuine good person.

See previous posts on “Rookie Randy”  HERE     and  HERE

Cooking … Cleaning…. he’s had his fair share since being assigned to ”Lucky #13″ and I’m sure his moma would be amazed at just how well he preforms.

He’s done everything asked of him and more … well ALMOST. 

If you remember, or hit the link above to the earlier post “I had to pull the book” you’ll know that before I went off on vacation I assigned Randy 1 task….. 1 !

For reasons I wont get into, he was assigned to memorize paragraph 4 of page 121 from Effective Company Command. I knew he would. He had completed every other assigned task above expectations. I had even told my wife that I bet he would be waiting for me when I arrived back to work on Thursday. I went as far to tell her that if he wasn’t there early and waiting on me, that once he did arrive; he’d come straight to me and recite the paragraph.

Well, he wasn’t at the station at 06:30 am nor did he come straight to me once he arrived at 07:00. It was almost like he avoided me. I gave him a bit to settle in then I asked him . LMAO … you shoulda seen the look on his face! He stuttered and stammered. It was almost painful to watch. But then, as I helped him word for word it became funny … comical. It reminded me of an old Andy Griffith episode …

LMAO !!  That’s EXACTLY how his recital went … EXACTLY! Needless to say, I was disappointed but I can also assure you that Randy will have that paragraph DOWN PAT in no time!

Last day we worked on MAYDAY and today is SEARCH / RESCUE. I should have some good pics and an update for ya later tonight.

So, moving on; I have several things to update you on.

I got a comment / e-mail asking about our trip to Baltimore and Firehouse Expo 2011. Specifically, it related to the post  “Looking Back on Baltimore …”

The comment basically was asking why I had not posted any pictures of Chief Billy Goldfeder and myself … if we had even seen one another there.

Well yes, I did get to see Chief Billy at Expo. Regretfully, I didn’t have the chance to buy him a beer but we did get to speak. The Chief spotted me on the floor and took the time to stop and say hello. Having the “mustache envy” I do, I took the opportunity to grab a pic. Yea … he has me!

I also didn’t get to post on much of the “fun” side of the trip.

Yea … Rhett and I always manage to have a good time even when on “business”.

We found a new “favorite” hang out …. ok a new favorite bar.

The  PBR Baltimore !

This place was awesome!

I think we dropped in almost every night for cold refreshments and a good time.

For some reason or another, I was kinda popular in the joint …

I think it was my hat … everybody wanted to try it on..

Even “Fire Boy” had to try it on ….

I think he thought it made him look taller ..LOL

I hope they have one in Atlanta … we had a blast!

You can see in the pic with me and Rhett that they even have a mechanical bull!

Yea .. we rode it!

Well, some of us “rode it” … I rode it in STYLE … with a waitress!

 

 

And, While I’m back to Baltimore … I wanted to share a little more about one of our fellow climbers….Tommy Warshaw.

Rhett has known Tommy for sometime through Face and Twitter but they have never actually met.

I knew Tommy through the same means but not as well as Rhett.

Anyway, Tommy had contacted us to say that he would be at the climb and would love the chance to met us in person.

Obviously, we were thrilled and offered to buy him a beverage following the event. He made the climb so we bought the beer!

Tommy was one of the first ones up .. he climbed in group #3 (we were #19).

Tommy is “top notch” in my book … a GREAT guy!

He is the kind of brother who wears 2 hats for your safety and freedom. I say that meaning that he is also in the military. Tommy serves in the 34th Intelligence Squad out of Fort Mead, Md. while volunteering in the Fire Service. WOW !

Tommy thought enough of us (me and Rhett) to bring us a Challenge Coin from his unit.

 

Brought em and presented them to us before the climb!

Like I said … TOP NOTCH ! 

And like the coin says … “ONE TOUGH DUCK”!

It was and honor and privilege Tommy … THANKS!

Baltimore kinda followed me home. Well, it (or ”the Climb” anyway) will stay with me forever. What I meant by following me home was the fact that we received a special package here at Station #13 on Thursday.

Most of you know by now that I worked the booth for Zach Green and MN8 / FoxFire Products while at Expo. 

 I posted on how grateful Zach was in the “Looking Back on Baltimore..” post.

The fancy dinner, Champagne, bottles of Wine etc.

Well, I get back to the firehouse and the box arrives from Cincinnati, OH.

It took me a minute but then I put two and two together … yea … SIX! LOL

No, Zach is from Cincinnati.

We were like kids at Christmas!

Tore the box to pieces! Randy thought is was his birthday or something.

We got out the Irons, had a forcible entry drill and just lookie what we found…

ICE CREAM !!!

Not just ANY ice cream mind you … GRAETER’S  ice cream!

OMG !  As Wheezy would say … “deleeeeshious” Thanks Zach..YOU ARE THE MAN!

So, that should about wrap up the Baltimore trip …. I know, I know … about time .. right? It’s been just as busy here around home. We’ve had 2 multiple alarm fires in as many days here in “The Noke”. If you missed them check out a previous post  HERE  .

We also had a retirement.

Our last day (Thursday July 28, 2011) was Firefighter / EMT Kenny Hurt’s last day in company.

Kenny was hired in the same group of 21 members that I was back in 1991. He was able to retire because we have what we call a “Rule of 70″. Although you will not draw your max pension, when your age and years of service add up to 70, you are eligible to retire.

 Congratulations and good luck to Kenny!

Ok.. I’m gonna wrap things up for now …I’ll check back in a little later on. Until then, Stay Safe and In House!

Captain Wines

 

 

Posted by on July 30, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, fires, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Back to Back 2 bangers in “The Noke”

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Photo from WDBJ7.com

For the 2nd day in a row, Roanoke’s Bravest have struck a 2nd Alarm.

Last night’s blaze was located in an apartment building on Westover Ave. in the South West section of the city. The incident occurred around 10:15pm on B-shift.

See Thursday’s downtown 2nd alarm fire HERE

Ladder 7 was first in with heavy fire and smoke showing from the 3rd floor. The 2nd alarm was immediately struck. The 2nd alarm brought all 4 ladders and nearly 40 firefighters to the scene.

No firefighters were injured but 2 civilians were transported in stable condition.

Photo by Drew Abel

One of the injured was trapped in a 3rd floor bathroom.

An “unknown” firefighter had reached the bathroom window and taken the glass from a ground ladder as members from “Lucky”  Engine Company #13 arrived on the interior. Although blackened with smoke and soot, the victim was conscious and communicating with the firefighter on the ladder.

Firefighter / EMT Brian Reager was the first to reach the man on the interior and determined his status. Captain Phil “Triple D” Dillon quickly decided that the best means of egress was through the interior. Assisted by Firefighter / Medic Dennis Hayes, the 3 members quickly and safely escorted the man to awaiting medics for treatment / transport.

WELL DONE LADS!

A second person was also transported in stable condition with reports of 1st degree burns and smoke inhalation.

See Local news coverage  HERE  and   HERE  .

Also visit  VAFIRENEWS.COM  for more pictures of the incident. Brother Drew Abel (from Station #3-A) must live close by and was able to grab some great shots.

“WELL  DONE”  to all the Brothers and Sisters on B-shift for another quick knock down and safe operation.

Stay Safe and In House!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 30, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, rescues, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Multiple Alarms in “The Noke” and LODD in NC

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Photo from WDBJ7.com

A fire on the roof ( a/c air handling unit ) brought multiple alarms today in Roanoke.

Battalion Chief 1-C was first in with heavy black smoke from the roof of a 10 story newly renovated hotel / apartment building.

The incident brought multiple alarms while crews quickly went to work to contain the blaze and minimize the damage. The fire was found to be from, in or around an air conditioning / air handling unit on the roof. The fire was quickly extinguished but smoke filled the building between the 10th and 4th floors. The building was evacuated and all searches found to be “all clear”. Companies then worked to ventilate the structure and minimize water damage to the upper floors.

See Local news coverage and photos  HERE and HERE

The Brothers and Sisters of C-shift did an excellent job in near 100 degree heat. Damage estimates are not available at this time but no civilians or firefighters were injured. Our Brothers and Sisters in North Carolina were not as fortunate.

Photo from Statter 911.com

Captain Jeffery Bowen 37, a 13 year veteran of the Asheville, NC Fire Department was killed this afternoon while battling a fire in a five story commercial structure.

Captain Bowen leaves behind a wife and 3 children.

7 other members were injured in the blaze with at least 1 having been transferred to a burn unit.

Get more details, photos and video  from The Fire Critic or Statter 911

My thoughts and prayers are with the Bowen family as well as with the family of the Asheville Fire Department. I will try to update with info and arrangements as they become available.

We are on duty and I have a lot to report … it just doesn’t seem right to do so following the report of Captain Bowen’s death. Let’s everyone stay safe and in house and I’ll update ya later.

Captain Wines

 

Posted by on July 28, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Looking back On Baltimore. Firehouse Expo 2011

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WHAT A WEEK!

You should all know by now that Rhett (Fire Critic), Kevin Totten (Salem Fire/EMS) and I spent the better part of last week in Baltimore, Md at Firehouse Expo 2011.

We had a GREAT time surrounded by friends, fans and Brother and Sister firefighters from across the Country.

Rhett and travel a lot together but this trip in particular had several objectives.

I think our main objective was to participate in and complete the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. WE DID !

It was one of the proudest moments of my life.  A highlight of my career.  I’m still emotional about the experience and will never forget what I found in that stairway. If you haven’t, read my post following the climb  HERE  . Rhett also posted of his feelings following the climb. I think it’s his best post ever. If you’re on the job and can read it with dry eyes, you’re tougher than me. Read that post over on Fire Critic  HERE .

Another objective of our trip was working with Firefighter Netcast.

I have been working with / helping Rhett and John Mitchel  for some time now. We always have a good time and get to hear some  great discussions / interviews.

Turns out, I didn’t get to do much work for Firefighter Netcast this go round. Our good friend Zach Green from Fox Fire / MN 8 Products  found himself in a tight spot.

At the last minute, his  ”Illuminating Goddess”  and sales gal couldn’t make the trip. Rhett and John had things well under control in our booth so I moved across the isle to lend Zach a hand. WOW ! We were non-stop every day of Expo. I’m not sure how much we sold over the 3 days of exhibits but we did well. Someone said that I could sell ice cream to an Eskimo. I’m not so sure about that but I will say that selling Fox Fire is easy … it sells itself. All good products do.

It also helps that I use and believe in the Fox Fire products. I wear the helmet band and have the tools on our rig pained or wrapped. I didn’t have a  ”sales pitch” … it was a testimonial from a fireman who uses the product. See my previous FOX FIRE  PRODUCT REVIEW .

Zach was very thankful for the help.

See Zach’s take on the 2011 Firehouse Expo HERE . 

We (Zach, Rhett and I) always hang out together on these trips but this time, he took it up a notch!

He wanted to celebrate our success over dinner. Not just any dinner mind you … he wanted the best steak in town and a bottle of champagne.

Mortons Steakhouse!  Talk about classy … WOW. It was one of those places where you had 4 or five forks to choose from. It must be one of those  ADA things because our first course was seafood and Rhett used the little baby fork. I seen a big dude across the way using the big fork so I just went middle of the road.

I ate things I cant even pronounce. The appitizers were more than a meal but the food kept comming. The steak ??? UNBELIVABLE !!  I think they may have been a little worried about their wine storage because they wanted you to smell it before you drank it but anyway, it was a GREAT meal even better company … THANKS  Zach!

A 3rd objective on our trip involved Rhett and partner Jeff Harkey unveiling their new company .. Daily 911 Deals.com

This is going to be HUGE !

It’s basically a collective purchasing site for Fire, EMS and Police!

Rhett has the full details over on the Fire Critic  … CLICK HERE .

So, as you can tell; there is a ton of work to be done while we’re on these trips. We spend all day on our feet (concrete floors)  selling, talking and networking with folks.

Like Zach, Rhett and Jeff left Baltimore with a smile on their face.

We had a good week on the floor. And yea … they’re my friends but I also now a good deal when I see it. Be sure to hit the link above and register for the Daily 911 Deals … it will save ya money on some great products!

So, that was a look at the work end of the trip but with me and Rhett, you know there was  a little play involved as well. Play on the side and some fun rolled into the work as well.

Obviously, we met and spoke with hundreds if not thousands of people this week. The really cool thing is that several of them actually came up to us in the booth and introduced themselves as readers / fans of the site!   WOW !  I always joke and say “so you’re the one” but, in all honesty; I’m honored and humbled every time it happens. I was so busy in the booth that I didn’t have the chance to get a shot with every one of them but here are a few …..

I know you hear people saying it all the time but you guys .. the readers / fans REALLY are the ones who make this site a success. Thanks to all of you for the following and continued support. Special thanks to all the readers who took the time to drop by the booth to say hello and offer a hand shake … it was MY honor.

Beyond the fans, I also had the privilege of meeting a few folks I have wanted to for some time as well as the chance to get together with old friends that I truly respect and admire. Here are a few shots ….

If ya didn’t hit the pics for descriptions etc. the top photo his of me and Captain Liam Flaherty of FDNY’s Rescue 2. The center pic is me with Fire Geezer .. we had never actually met until this show. The last pic is me with the author of the book They Come In Threes  Dave Houseal. As soon as I’m done with the read .. I’ll have a review of the book for ya.

We also caught up with some old friends and fans at the Fire / EMS Blog Network “Meet-up” at Uno’s restaurant. Big Nick, Little Nick, Mike Ward, Bill Carey and many others were in attendance.

Thanks to Dave Iannone, Chris Herbert, their crew from Go Forward Media and Wall Shields for sponsoring the event .. I’m the one in the cowboy hat … Statter is the one taller than Rhett..LOL

Oh yea … Statter was there as well. Dave does a TON of work for the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and played an intrigul role in the stair climb.

Firefighter Netcast was actually set up in the Statter and Fire Geezer booth.

Rhett, Firefighter Netcast and I try to help Dave as much and often as possible. We spend a lot of time together on these trips. Despite all the fun back and forth on our sites, we are actually all  good friends and always have a blast.

Dave teamed up with Go Forward Media and invited a group of us out for dinner Saturday night following the Expo…. Maryland Blue Crab and cold beer! Afterwards, Dave treated us all to an Orioles game … here are a few shots …

YEA … That’s the Fire Critic and Dave Statter in bibs !

I have several more pictures and a few good stories to share but they’ll have to wait until tomorrow. The best news about the trip was that we all made it home safe and the Buckaroo was on the porch waiting for me when I pulled in. Today has been busy catching up on the farm … we have a busy day tomorrow as well but I’ll try to check back in.

Until I get back to ya … Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 25, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The climb…

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We did it!

I’m still so proud and in a state of mind that I’m not sure if I can even post about it yet.

All of you folks know that Kevin Totten (Salem Fire/EMS), Rhett Fleitz (Fire Critic) and I have been here in Baltimore for the past few days for Firehouse Expo 2011. You also know that we participated in the 9/11 memorial stair climb. 110 stories in full PPE in honor and memory of our 343 fallen brothers from the FDNY.

The event was a huge success and I am proud to have been a part of it!

 Following 9/11, these climbs have been going on across the Country for some time now but I believe that this particular event had the largest number of participants to date. Obviously, the goal is to have 343 members climbing and we reached the mark of 323 here in Baltimore!

Kevin, Rhett and I were in group #19.

I’ve been emotional the entire time. Emotional as in I can’t even talk about it without getting choked up.

Dave Statter and I talked about it. I remembered back to when he had us ( Firefighter Netcast … Rhett, John Mitchel and I ) up to Emmitsburg, Md for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.

Dave, his wife Hillary and I spoke of being on the Memorial grounds. They both spoke passionately of how the experience there would be  almost “spiritual”. I didn’t understand it at the time but would soon learn how true and accurate  their description was.  At that time in my life, I hadn’t experienced something truly “spiritual”  for a while. I did that weekend.

The experience left me wondering if I would even return to “that place” again. Return not Emmitsburg, but that emotional place I had found while there.

I found it again here in Baltimore! 

I’m not even sure “spiritual” explains it. I was  scared.  Nervous…excited, anxious and apprehensive.  What if I couldn’t make it? I knew (or thought) I had the heart but what if I didn’t have the legs? My thoughts went to those 343 …. did they have the same thoughts? Either way, they had a job to do so they went up…. I did too.

The climb was hard. I knew it would be but I also knew that it was 10 times harder for those  Brothers who lost their lives that day climbing in the World Trade Centers.

I spoke with the group and we formed a rank structure. I was to be in command. (ANOTHER HONOR).

Kevin took the lead, followed by Kevin, Jody, Chris,  Rhett and I trailed the group. In the first flight, I said the Lord’s Prayer. I followed that with the Firemen’s prayer. I then began to think of the brave men who gave their all that September day.

My intentions were to remain silent and allow each member to “have their time” in the stairwell but instinct kicked in and I immediately began checking on our group. I made sure each member was “ok” along the way while giving frequent reminders of water and hand rails. I’m a Captain…. that’s what I do.

Our group was professional. Each member  disciplined and we honored the 343 well! We were a team, working for the same cause… towards the same goal.  In a few very short minutes,  members from  Va, Kentucky, Ohio and Maryland became a company!  I knew from step one that we would all complete the climb even if it meant carrying someone up.

There was plenty of time to reflect. It was a long grueling climb. I thought often of not only the 343 members  from that day but also of many of our lost Brothers  from before and since.

I thought of Pete Lund, William “ Billy”  Hick,  Curtis Meyran, and John Bellew just to name a few. 

 I climbed for Joseph Angelini and his son Joey Jr. I carried both tags and looked at them often. We have worn their pictures every day of the Expo since. I have them around my neck even now as I type this post.

I couldn’t help but think of their families and how the news must have came to them. I wonder if they are ok.  How they’re coping. I wonder if  the money raised for this event will ever reach them? I’m sure it will and hope it makes a difference! More than that, I hope they learn that someone carried their loved ones photo while climbing 110 stories. I hope they know we havent forgotten.

It was somber, sad and frightening.  Those 343 entered that structure that  September day knowing it was a coffin.  There’s no way way they didn’t know it was” gonna be bad”, but they went anyway. Me….us? We had it easy. We had water stations on the 16th and 20th floor (or some where close anyway).  We had Medics in the door ways to ensure we were all ok.

We did the climb 22 stories at a time. We hit the top then rode the service elevator down to the lobby. Then, we headed back up the stairs. There was a short distance between the elevator and stairway we used. That walk took us through the lobby where a large crowd gathered to cheer the climbers on.

It was humbling and brought me to tears every lap.

Group 19 completed our climb in 1 hour! My legs went from feeling like rubber to as if they weighed 100 lbs each. My gear must have tripled in weight as it became sweat soaked. What the gear couldn’t absorb filled my boots.

I looked into the faces of each member of group 19 as we rounded the landings. I saw what I can only imagine was on the faces of the 343 as they climbed …PRIDE and DETERMINATION.

I will remember this climb and my time in that stairwell until the day I die. I will remember Joseph Angelini, his son Joey Jr and the other 341 members of the FDNY who died in stairwells that day.

I WILL NEVER FORGET. Thanks to National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, The Baltimore City FD, The Hilton and all the volunteers who helped with the event. Thanks also to the 323 members who made this climb and to group 19.

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 23, 2011 • Filed under: in-the-line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

We are all climbing

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Tomorrow, Rhett (The Fire Critic), Kevin Tottin ( Salem Fire / EMS ) and I will arrive in Baltimore, Md for Firehouse Expo 2011.

We have a very busy work schedule through Sunday. We will be there working with Firefighter Netcast  and will be set up in Booth #743 with the likes of  Bill Schum ( Fire Geezer) and Dave Statter ( Statter 911 ) … Stop by for a visit!

We also have several meetings to attend and people to meet with. You will of course find us with the crew from the Fire/EMS Blog Network, Go Forward Media  and Go Forward Fire.  Bosses Dave Iannone and Chris ” hey buuuuuddy” Herbert always take pretty good care of us.  Bill Carey, Paul Andrews and Mary Velline are another 3 folks from the Go Forward team who have always made me feel right at home.  You may also find us hanging out with Zach Green and his crew from MN8 Products / Fox Fire.  Despite all the work, we’re gonna have a good time!

We (Rhett, Kevin and I) will also be participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Thursday at 2pm.  We will climb 110 stories of stairs in full turn out gear (I’ll be the skinny guy with a big mustache carrying Rhett).

Someone asked me the other day why in the world would I want to do that?

That’s easy … because my brothers of the FDNY couldn’t !  They weren’t allowed the time. The towers came down before they could complete their job and maybe,  in some small way; this will allow me to finish it for them.

343 members of the FDNY were climbing those stairs for the people pictured above right …. now, I’ll climb for those 343!

At the sign up, we were asked if we’d like to climb in honor or memory of a particular Firefighter. I choose Joseph “Joey” Angelini.

That’s Joey pictured to the left. Years ago, I used to go to the city for St. Patty’s Day. I’d always stay at a firehouse and catch a ride. One of my first rides was with Rescue 1. Joey was on that tour and went out of his way to spend time and talk with me. He made a lasting impression.

He was the oldest member of the FDNY still in company and he was on one of the busiest rigs !  Talk about Wooden Ladders and Iron Firemen!

His love for the job was evident in his every word …. the pride and honor. It doesn’t seem like we see a lot of that any more.

Like my dad, Joey must have passed his passion on to his son. Joseph Angelini Jr. followed his father’s footsteps but, regretfully; was also killed in the towers that September day ( assigned to Ladder Company 4).

My climb wont be easy. Their’s was worse!

I haven’t been to the gym nor have I practiced for the event. They didn’t have that luxury. The alarm sounded and they went.

This climb  has been on my mind a lot lately. I feel honored to have the opportunity.

As I was thinking, it hit me … I’ve been climbing stairs all my life. Most of us on the job have.

Not necessarily stairs like I’ll climb on Thursday, or the ones they climbed that day; but stairs none the less.

Give me a minute or 20 to explain.

Rhett had a post up last week about the final season of Rescue Me. See that post HERE . In it, he says …

“I think that many may agree that Rescue Me was a decent show in the beginning, but as the seasons progressed dysfunctional lives and too often nearly impossible heroics in conditions which are not indicative of normal firefighting lost real firefighters along the way.”

I have to disagree. I LOVE the show. I can relate to the character Tommy Gavin. The show hasn’t “lost” me and, despite what others may think; I consider myself to be a “real firefighter”.

I’m as dysfunctional as Gavin. Hell, maybe more so! Most of the old or “real” firefighters I know are as well. WE HAVE TO BE! Is that a good thing? Healthy? Probably not but that doesn’t change the facts.

Are we all as messed up as Gavin? No…. it’s TV. They just rolled all (or most of) our problems into one character.

You can’t see what we’ve seen and do what we’ve done and think yourself normal. Do dead people talk to me from inside my locker? NO. But there are faces I see often and will never forget. Memories I can’t loose. I would bet that true statistics within our profession for alcohol and spousal abuse would amaze you. Whats the divorce rate in your Department? The stress of this job can be overwhelming. Wonder why heart attacks are so prevalent?

Talk about stairs to climb …. try working a 24 hour shift away from your family. Get off tomorrow morning and go to you’r 2nd job. Screen a few calls from the wife about where you have to be when to pick up the kid or kids for this or that. Fire Officer class is tonight 6- 8pm … that promotion test is just weeks away and Firefighter “Joe” from the truck could use a hand building his deck for the company cookout next week.

Don’t forget to stop by so and so and drop off a check for whatever lesson or sports club and we’re out of milk.

By the way, the dishwasher quit working,  the grass needs mowed and my car is making a “funny noise”.

Do you have enough hours in the day? Enough days in the week? Are you making enough money? Yea… all the firemen I know are filthy RICH! How about your runs?  Seeing anything that bothers you? Hungry, low income children. Do ya see people you want to help and cant?

Get closer to home How many games have you missed due to pulling a tour? How many birthdays, holidays etc? How many times have you been pulled between you’re “firehouse family” and your family at home?

It’s an up hill battle…. “stairs to climb”  and it comes with the job. Over worked, under paid, seeing people in the worst conditions, sacrificing ourselves and our families for complete strangers . .. why? Because it’s a calling … It’s OUR CALLING!

 The bad news is that there are plenty of steps. They keep going up and up. My good friend and West Coast Brother Joe Schmoe must feel like he’s on an escalator. He called last week and I knew something was heavy on his mind. He didn’t get the chance to tell me but I know what it is. Cold feet. Schmoe is nearing retirement (as in about a month away). He’s been climbing those stairs so long, he doesn’t know how to stop. He’s not sure if he wants to. I hope he finds a peaceful landing to catch his breath. I know he will but I also know that his heart and soul is in that stairway. The same one we are all climbing. Not unlike the ones that collapsed on our brothers back in 2001.

That’s why I’m climbing Thursday. Because of firemen before me like my dad and Captain Joe Schmoe who have made their climb. I’m climbing because  if any of those 343 Brothers lost on September 11, 2001  were here today, I’d guarantee they’d miss or sacrifice whatever to be right there in those stairways again.

Thursday, they will be. They will be in a stairway in Baltimore Md. They will be in my mind and I WONT MISS A SINGLE STEP !!

I’ll update ya from the road… until then, stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 19, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I had to “Pull the Book” !

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It’s been another busy day here at Lucky #13. The good news is that if I make it til 07:00 am tomorrow morning, I’ll be off for 13 days! WoooooHoooo! Rhett, Kevin Tottin and I will be heading up to Baltimore, Md for the 2011 Firehouse Expo ! I’ll have more on that trip in future posts but for now, hit the link above and make plans to attend.

Today has been busy all the way around. With a new “Rookie” in the house, things are always a bit busier. Today was no exception. We’ve been working on the “basics” with him over the past 3 days. Today was SCBA day.

The “word of the day” was  ROAM

“ROAM” is an acronym for Rules  Of  Air  Management .

That’s Randy pictured to the right sweeping the station floor while wearing his SCBA  (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus).

Click Here for an earlier post about SCBA’s under ” Tricks of the Trade”

Now, I know you’re wondering (or at least his mom is) … Why would you have him wear an air pack while sweeping?

Well, I didn’t. 

I made him wear it while sweeping, mopping AND mowing grass!

I need to know that he knows how to operate his SCBA. I’d rather find out here in the station than out on a fire.

I need to know that he wears it correctly and that he’s comfortable with it on. The more you wear it, the more comfortable you become.

I need to know how quickly he will use a bottle while working . I know that sweeping, mopping and mowing is no where near the  physical exertion that fire fighting is but we have to start somewhere.

I wanted him thinking about his breathing while working. He knew I was looking to see how long his bottle lasted so he was “forced” to think about his breathing.

He had to think about and remember to pay attention to his “heads up display” and pressure gauges.

To me, it’s like imprinting a baby colt. If I teach him to think about all these things early in his career then, hopefully;  it will stay with him throughout.

Randy did fine. Actually, he did better than fine. I even had him work through his “vibra alert” and take the last breath from the bottle. He was mowing at that point. I wanted him to know how long he could last with the vibra alert. I also wanted him to feel that sensation of taking a breath and sucking his mask to his face. I hope the only time he ever does that again is in training like this.

I’m proud of the kid .. he knew his pack well and lasted 44 minutes.

You folks know me well enough to know that this won’t be the last time Randy has his pack on so it’s a safe bet that his 44 minute mark will improve.

 

Of course, I should have know he would do well with anything related to SCBA. He was the “Champion” recruit for SCBA training and “field crawl” during the Academy … Recruit Class #14. They even gave him a Championship Belt made from an SCBA harness and steamer cap.

All of this attention can be hard for a “Rookie” firefighter to handle. I think the belt thing and all my praises may be going to his head. I’m not sure if it’s due to him having legs  6 feet long or wearing a size 13 shoe but I swear I think he’s walking with a little “strut”. LOL Maybe it’s because I told him about all the e-mails I got asking if he’s single …LOL .. well, HE’S NOT single but I did have to pull the book on him today. Not the Essentials Book … the other one. Effective Company Command! (1973 by James O. Page Borden Publishing Company).

 

Pulled it and read it to him. Expect him to have it memorized by the time I return from vacation. Well, paragraph 4 of page 121 anyway. Here’s what it says …

 

“A drive through most any community is likely to present an occasional view of feminine charms. It is not the intent of this book to discourage the pleasure generally associated with such a view. However, it should be recognized that one of the factors which sets professionals apart from nonprofessionals is emotional restraint. A fire company which is viewed hooting, hollering, whistling or staring transfixed at an attractive female is likely to be categorized as a band of sex-depraved barbarians. On the other hand, a reasonably quick glance (maybe even accompanied by a collective smile) will assure their viewing public that their firemen are normal, red- blooded American males.”

Poor fella. He can’t help but to stare “transfixed”…. I’m sure he’s seeing things here that the folk back in Max Meadows have only heard of …LOL

Ok, moving on … I need to give a shout out to the Brothers and Sisters of the Clinton Fire Department in Clinton, MO.

Vist the Clinton Fire Department on Face Book

I’ve mentioned on here several times how my dad …aka “Pop” drives a tour bus for the Bluegrass Band Nothin Fancy.  Well, one of his recent trips had him in Missouri.

Pop needed a place to stop, rest and clean up a bit. The band was playing there for a local fair / carnival.

Of course, with 30 years on the job behind him he knows that all he has to do is find a firehouse.

Well, Clinton only has one but he found it.

Pop got the grand tour and was very impressed. He commented to me on their apparatus in particular. He said that although the pieces have some age on them, you’d never know it by their looks. Very well maintained!

The station, he said; was no different. The fact that these folk have pride in their job was evident!

The members were just as professional.

The Chief and a group of 6-8 members took excellent care of Pop and seen to his every need. That’s Chief Leo Huff pictured to the left.

 They even  allowed the band to shower and freshen up at the station.

I’d like to send out a special THANKS to Chief Huff and his members for the brotherhood and professionalism! If any of you guys are ever in our area, please let me know and allow me the chance to re-pay the favor!

So, for my next “shout out”, I need to talk about a Brother from the Salem Fire and EMS Department … Mike Christley.

Mike operates an excivating company on his days off and did me a huge favor yesterday.

On short notice, Mike hauled some mulch out to the Tech Farm for us. Not only did he do it on short notice, his price was very affordable!

I guess maybe I should have charged him a little seeing as how I supplied his co-pilot. The Buckaroo couldn’t wait to get in and Mike seemed just as excited. Of course, this was not the first time Mike and the Buckaroo have been riding together. See  THIS POST  for their first trip together. So anyhow, for you local readers; if you ever need any kind of excivation work or hauling, please keep Mike in mind. Cave Spring Excavating Inc. 540-537-2923 .

The Buckaroo also got a little time in on the Bobcat yesterday before we had to head out to the hay field.

The little fella LOVES anything he can ride or drive.

We’ve got a couple of busy days ahead of us as we try to finish up our hay making before my big trip to Baltimore.

I’m not sure what I’ll do for a week without him even though taking care of Rhett is NOT that much different (and the face that they are the same height is also a plus). Hell, we may just take the Buckaroo with us!

Like I said, more on the Baltimore trip soon. I’m gonna stop here for the night. I start 13 in the morning so lets hope it gets here quick! I’ll check back in as soon as I can. Until then, stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Added note: Special Thanks to Lt. Baron “Smurf” Gibson for coming out tonight and sharing his knowledge of SCBA’s with Randy (Smurf was our SCBA Technician for 21 years).

 

 

Posted by on July 14, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Our new Rookie …

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I posted Sunday on the graduation of Recruit Class #14 from our Regional Training Center.  See that post  HERE  .

I mentioned that I was getting a “Rookie” but I didn’t have any idea I would be getting one as good as I got …. meet Randy Armbrister!

So far, Randy is working out very well.  He’s an easy going  “farm boy” type from a little place called Max Meadows, Va. 

Easy going is always good around a firehouse, the “farm boy” part means he has a good work ethic. 

There are several different terms used for “new hires” across the country. Typically, a firefighter goes through some form of training before being assigned to a company. “Rookie” school,  ”Cadet” school or a Fire Academy. While there, they are considered “recruits” ,”cadets” or “candidates”. Once they graduate, they then become “Rookies”, “Probies”, “Boots” or “FNG’s”.

If they live through their probation period (usually 1 yr) and meet all of their requirements, they will be released from probation to become firemen but, the training and learning doesn’t stop there. I’ve been on the job for 20 years and I still learn or see something new everyday! That’s another good thing about Randy. Being a farm boy, he understands commitment.

I feel pretty good about Randy’s assignment but I’m not sure yet how he feels …LOL. I’ve kept him pretty busy. Rookies live at the bottom of the food chain in a fire house. They get to scrub toilets while the senior men sweep the living room. They usually get a ton of responsibility as far as station duties etc. and tey are all the ones nobody else likes or wants to do.

Randy is no exception…. he has a huge work load here at Lucky #13. On top of routine station chores and equipment familiarization / check offs, he has the requirements of his “Rookie Book” to complete and then ME to contend with.  I’m on him pretty much ALL DAY.

I have to be…. I’m now responsible for his life. I accept that knowing that I will place his life in danger … maybe even on the next run (if need be). I need to know that he’s ready for that and the only way I can find out is  through training and interacting with him on a daily basis.

That said, we have and will train a lot. A LOT LOT. He told someone today that he has learned more in his 2 days in company than he did in Recruit School.

I know that’s not true but it may seem that way to him. Out in the companies, the Rookies get a different perspective. They learn “street ways” vs. “by the book”.

Even though his first day out was Sunday, we spent much of it out in the streets training. Portable radios, policies, procedures and a bunch of hydrant work. Even the simple things like getting dressed (turned out) is different when you get out in company. Getting all the belts , buckles etc right sitting in a parked rig at the training center is one thing. Doing it while screamingdown the street, red lights and sirens on your way to a possible house fire is another. LOL … he damn near hung himself on his first fire call. He had the headset cord wrapped around him like a big boa constrictor.Poor fella … I didn’t know how to write the call up … a rubbish fire or hanging..LOL.

Well, the training continued today. It’s not Sunday but it was near 100 degrees. Normally, I would have kept the crew in the AC unless out on a call.  The good news is that we flowed some water today so it wasn’t too bad on him.

Another benefit to him being a farm boy …. if he was at home, he would have been out side working anyway … he’s used to working in hot weather.

We worked on making the stretch and handling the line. Even though today is just his 2nd on the job, he’s the nozzle man. Our Lieutenant (Georgie) is off so Boots is driving and Randy is backwards by himself. Of course, if we catch a job; I’ll be right there beside him but still, that’s a huge responsibility for a 2nd day man!

He hasn’t bitched or complained one bit…. hell he hasn’t stopped smiling. A great attitude and personality. There’s no doubt in my mind why he received the “Chris Brown Character Award”  at graduation (an award voted on by his peers). Like I said, you’ll be seeing a lot of Randy here on Ironfiremen.com as we continue to build our his knowledge and skills. I say “our” because I’m learning too. I had forgotten what it’s like to have a rookie assigned when on a run. I’m used to getting out of the truck and going to work. I haven’t had to think about or worry where my firemen were … they were right behind me. I had to stop the other night .. “oh wait … where’s Randy?” LOL … that’s when I found him hanging by his radio cord.

 So anyway, keep checking us …. this is gonna be fun! We’re back on Thursday. Until then, stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 12, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Back to the grind stone …

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We’re back on duty after another work filled 4 day break. Usually, I don’t work the guys on Sundays or holidays but today had to be a little different…. we got our new “rookie” this morning. I’ll get to that in a minute.

To begin with, it appears that our brothers on B-shift had another butt – kicking tour. You may remember a few posts back when I posted a pic of Duncan passed out on the couch at 06:20 am…. drool on his shirt and everything. See that pic and post HERE . LOL … he was dead tired. What’s better than a pic ??  VIDEO ! Oh yea … I got video that morning as well …

LOL … I know ..I know. He needs help!

Good news / bad news …

The good news …well, apparently; he got some … one of those fancy breathing machines and it helped  his snoring..

The bad news is that he has to wear the thing and still passes out on the couch.

Yep … 06:30 this morning I found him again. Attached to his new sleeping toy. I tried to fret him  help him a little bit and accidentally hit the wrong button. I cut it off. LMAO .. I felt like Dr. Kevorkian! It was like I pulled the plug on him or something. Instead of killing him, it woke him up but it did make for a great early morning laugh.

Photo from Roanokefirefighters.com

So, like I said; I’ve had a pretty busy 4 day break. On top of all the farm work etc, the Buckaroo and I made it out to a few social gatherings … on yea … we got our party on!

Friday evening, we made it out to our Union Hall to congratulate the recent graduates from our Regional Training Academy.

See that post HERE. You can also find some more great pics over on Mike Overacker’s site Roanoke Firefighters.

We had a great time at the party. Our ladies Auxiliary once again was a huge help with the event. They even rented one of those blow up slide, bouncy play things for the kids.  The Buckaroo was in AWE!

Saturday evening, we paused our hay making to attend Rhett’s 2nd annual Luau!

Read the post and pics from last year’s Luau HERE !

Once again, despite Rhett’s gay shirt and girly drink; we had a BLAST! Rhett and Becky are GREAT hosts and did it up FIRST CLASS!

He even had 2 of those blow up, bouncy, slide, play things on site! For the 2nd day in a row, the Buckaroo was in AWE!

Rhett must have cooked 40 lbs of Boston Butt. The food was FANTASTIC!

Good music, great food and friends … another successful event!

Click here for the earlier post on the 2nd annual Luau

So, The Buckaroo and I called it a night and I headed in for duty this morning.  You seen what I was met with when I got here … the good news is that things took a turn for the better.

You folks know that we have been running with only 3 assigned here at Lucky #13 – C  for some time now. Today, that changed. One of the rookies from Recruit Class #14 was assigned here.

I posted HERE  last week on how I really didn’t understand why they would assign a rookie here but I’m glad they did.

Meet Randolph “Randy” Armbrister.

You’re gonna see a lot of Randy on here in the future. He’s a farm boy from a little place called Max Meadows, Va.

We spent today trying to get him settled in and going over a few of the basic “need to knows”. A little hydrant work, stretching a line etc. We’re gonna be busy for a while and I’m sure there will be plenty of photo ops. I also have to figure out a nick name for him…. that will be fun.

Anyway I have to go get him into his dress blues before the pre-bed (9pm) inspection. Of course there is NO SUCH THING as a 9pm inspection but it will be fun watching him dress up and get ready for it. I’ll fill ya in on how it went next day … we’re back Tuesday and Thursday.

Until then, stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 10, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Recruit School #14

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photo from Roanoke Fire / EMS Face Book page

The Roanoke Regional Training Academy graduated Recruit Class #14 this past Friday (July 8, 2011).

The class began with 22 perspective new hires for Roanoke City and County. The City of Salem did not have any new hires this time.

20 members made it through the 16 week academy to graduate on Friday.

The academy consists of courses such as EMT-B, EVOC,  Firefighter I & II, Hazmat, Rope, Trench and Vehicle Rescue. The recruits receive extensive hands on training throughout the academy and are instructed by members from the City, County and Salem Departments.

Photo by Mike Overacker (Roanokefirefighters.com)

Congratulations to the following Cadets ….

Roanoke Fire / EMS :  Randy Armbrister, Matthew Furrow, Nathan Joachim, Peter Mathiesson, Alex McKinney, Matthew Moomey, Andrew Murray, Frederick Murray, Rashad Myers, Aaron Parker, Jacob Parry, James Richards, Shawn Sloane, Keith Snead, Thesalomius Washington, Andrew Watkins.

Roanoke County Fire / Rescue: Kelly Stoots, Denise Teehan, Nick Schmitt, Charles Layman.

Recruit Randy Armbrister received the Chris Brown Character award. Denise Teehan received the Leadership award, Nathan Joachim lead the class in academics, Nick Schmitt received the physical fitness award and Charles Layman served as class President.

I missed the graduation ceromony but the Buckaroo and I was able to attend the after party. Our Union, IAFF Local-1132; hosted the event  for all the recruits,  their family, friends and guests. Brother JJ Price and Sister Becky Smith brought in the cooker and had the entire block smelling like hamburgers and hot dogs. Our Women’s Auxiliary  was also on hand with plenty of sides and even one of those blow up, jumpy, slide  things for the kids!  Everyone had a BLAST! Here are some pics …

See  MORE PHOTOS by Lt. Mike Overacker (Retired) over at Roanoke Firefighters.com

Thanks to everyone who helped make the evening possible. Congratulations and good luck to all the new Rookies … may you all have long and safe careers!

Check back later and I’ll tell ya all about our new Rookie here at #13-C.

See ya then but until … stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 10, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ironfiremen.com at Fleitz house to get laid!

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Get your minds out of the gutter!  I’m talking about one of those Hawaiian type flower necklaces … a “Lei”.  Rhett had a Luau …. his 2nd annual.

There’s been a lot of hype leading up to the big bash and the Buckaroo and I have been pretty excited. I was glad for the chance to get out of the hay fields and the Buckaroo …well, he was excited to get to see Rhett’s daughter.

LOL.. Well we made the party and I have to tell ya … Rhett done it up right!

He even had not one but TWO of those blow up slide and jumpy things for the kids.

The Luau was well attended by the young and old and EVRYONE seemed to have a BLAST.

Me included. I gotta say … it was very nice and relaxing to sit there sipping on a tall tottie watching all those kids run around playing. The Buckaroo doesn’t get the chance to play with other kids all that much and I have an even smaller chance of getting to watch him do it.

A good time and GREAT food!

It was obvious that Rhett and Becky put in a lot of time and effort to make their 2nd annual Luau such a huge success.

I’m not sure how many pounds of meat he cooked but I guarantee nobody left hungry.

Pulled pork BBQ with 3 different sauces to choose from. Everyone brought a covered (side) dish and or desert.

The Buckaroo got to see Jade and play with “Big P” and many others. He even hooked up with some of the older girls down on the trampoline ….  THAT’S MY BOY!!  LOL.  Here are several more pics from the event ….

Thanks to Rhett and Becky for another GREAT time … I can’t wait til the next one! I’ll be back later today with a few more post to catch ya up on Fire Department stuff. Recruit school #14 just graduated and we got a new Rookie today. I have a ton of stuff to show and tell ya about … check back later

Until then, stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 10, 2011 • Filed under: news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,

Happy 4th of July from Ironfiremen.com

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Stay Safe and in house!
Captain Wines

Posted by on July 4, 2011 • Filed under: news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Middle day, 4th of July weekend

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Another beautiful day here in “The Noke” and we’re stuck on duty. It’s almost scary …. pretty weather, the 4th of July eve and we’ve actually been pretty quiet. I’m just waiting for the bottom to fall out.

I’m hoping for a quiet night but know how it will most likely end up.  Either way, we’re ready for it.

My “A – #1″ fireman, “Boots”  actually decided to come back to work today. He’s been off for about the past 3 week due to a duty injury. Nothing serious and he’s back to 100%.

He’s behind the wheel today because our Lieutenant (Georgie)  is off. We have an overtime man (McKelvey) riding backwards.  I’ve explained several times on the site how, due to staffing issues; we only have 3 men assigned to Lucky #13 here on C-shift. Next week, all that is supposed to change. Only July 8th, our latest recruit school is scheduled to graduate. I’ve been told that I will be getting one of the new “rookies” but I don’t know which one yet.

I’m kind of supprised to be getting a rookie. It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense for a few reasons.

First, we’re considered to be a slow house. We run our share but when compared to the run volume of other houses, we’re on the bottom end of the scale. I would think they would want the rookies at busier stations to get a little more experience.

Second, we are a single engine house. We don’t have a Medic unit here. We have 8 houses with ambulances. In those houses, all members assigned rotate through the Medic each cycle (firemen and medics anyway … not the Officers).

That means that if you’re at a house with a medic unit, odds are that you’ll be riding it at least one day out of our 3 day cycle. Obviously, our Medic units are a lot busier than Engine or Ladder companies. Riding the Medic is pretty much a sure bet for not sleeping. Again, I’d think they would want the rookies in a house with a medic unit.

Now, don’t get me wrong … it’s not that I don’t want a rookie, I just would have thought they would have put them at a busy house or with a Medic truck. Getting a rookie here is actually more good for me than the rookie. You see, I have a GREAT crew. A well seasoned crew of veterans. Although we train and hone our skills, we don’t have to be as aggressive at it as we will with a rookie. Now, it’s more like “brushing up” or “fine tuning”. With a fresh rookie it will training all day everyday. Good for us (me, Georgie and Boots) because it will keep us fresh….and, I guess even better for the rookie because he is going to be subjected to years of on the job experience and quality training.

Our Captains have no say in who is or isn’t assigned to our companies. Most likely, I wont even know which rookie I’m getting until he walks through the door. Heck, the Battalion Chiefs wont find out until the last minute.  Assignments are made out of “down town” by a person behind a desk. He tells the battalions who they get and where they are assigned (yea…the Battalions don’t even make their own station assignments). For whatever reason, assignments are a “big secret”. Even Captains are fair game. When this group of cadets come out, there will be several more moves of additional personnel to make room for the new hires. 

Some of the moves make sense … others don’t. Senior men and even officers are often moved for no apparent rhyme or reason. It often appears as if some are retaliation moves, some are the “good ol boy system” at work while others are just because they can. Micro Management !  Abraham Lincoln once said …

“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power”

So anyway, Boots is back today, Georgie will be back Tuesday and next week we’ll have a brand new guy.

Moving on, we had a really cool visitor today….

That’s Firefighter Bill Shick of Charlotte NC ‘s Ladder Company #1. Bill says he’s and avid reader and fan of Ironfiremen.com.  Can you believe it ? All this time and I finally got to meet him … my ONE reader and fan …LOL.

Bill was heading home from the DC area said he just had to stop in for a visit.  HOW COOL IS THAT ?!? He even brought gifts … apple pie and ice cream!

I really enjoyed the visit. I’m still shocked and humbled every time someone comes up and says they follow and like the site. Bill got a quick tour of the house but mostly we hung out by the rig and talked. He seemed like a great guy.

From what I know, Charlotte has a great Department. I’ve met several of their members in the past while playing football in the National Public Safety Football League. See previous posts   HERE   HERE   and  HERE .  They have 41 Engines, 15 ladders and 1,044 suppression personnel.

Learn more and visit the Charlotte Fire Department web site HERE

Bill says he passes through here about 3 times a year. He’s always welcome and will have a place to stay. Thanks for everything Brother! For thinking of us, for taking the time to stop by, for the pie and ice cream (it was delicious) and for following the site!

Charlotte is a cool place to visit as well. Not only have I been there playing football, I have family there. My mom, step dad and sister live in Indian Trail which is just on the outskirts. I’ll be heading down there again August for my sisters wedding.

Hopefully I can take in a few of the places I visited on previous trips and maybe even hook up with Bill and / or some other Brothers I know down there.

While playing ball in 2010, we ended up at a really cool bar … Whiskey River. They have a mechanical bull and everything … that’s one of our players girlfriend riding it back in 2010.

A Charlotte FD Brother and Cobra player #55 Nick Henderson took REALLY good care of us while we were there. That’s Nick with the red shirt in the center.

I hope I can catch up with Nick while down there in August. I can’t remember her name but I also hope he’s still dating that cute blond by his side … she was a BLAST to hang with and as you can see .. easy on the eyes …LOL. (If you’re reading this Nick … shoot me an e-mail and we’ll work out the details for me buying you a beer in August)

Moving on …. there is a pretty good employment oppurtunity here locally.

Brother Ty Dickerson dropped me an e-mail to let me know that the Lexington, Va Fire Department is hiring!

I have talked about the Lexington Fire Department many times here on Ironfiremen.

My history runs deep in Lexington. I was born there at Stonewall Jackson Hospital and live there as a child.

My dad began his firefighting career as a volunteer in Lexington back in 1968.

Most recently, I blogged about Lexington after making the trip up for birthday dinner and drinks with Brother Chris Potter. That’s my cousin Jarred Harlow on the far left, Chris Potter on the far right and Assistant Chief Jimmy Swink and the Buckaroo in the center.

We had a great time at dinner and afterwards, the fellas gave me the grand tour of the station.

 Read the related post … I was  Honored and Humbled !

This is not the station my dad started out in but they have done a great job in holding onto a lot of their history.

They have it displayed all over the house (check out the link above for some cool pics)

It’s obvious that the Lexington Fire Department is full of tradition,  honor and pride!

Wooden 50′ ladders, hand drawn ladders, old helmets, banners etc … they have tons of their history on display. They are not far off on I-81 so if you ever get the chance to stop in for a visit .. I highly recommend it (Lexington is also the home of VMI and Washington and Lee University).

As far as that goes …. you may even want to go to work for them. It sounds to me like a great oppurtunity to “get in on the ground floor” of a growing and progressive Department.

They will be hiring  3 – Firefighter / EMT’s, 3 – Firefighter / Medic’s,  a Fire / Rescue Technician and a Fire/Rescue Lieutenant. Application Deadline is Monday, July 18, 2011.  The pay ranges from $31,300-$45,200. Visit the Lexington Fire Department’s web page  HERE  or …

Click HERE for job descriptions, requirements and applications .

Ok, I think I’ll stop here for the night. Before I go … don’t forget to start making plans to attend Firehouse Expo in Baltimore, Md July 19-23. Rhett (Fire Critic) and I will be in Booth #743 with Fire Geezer and Dave Statter.  We will also be participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.  They need more members to climb !!

Brother Bill Carey challenges you to “Put all that ‘brotherhood’ and ‘never forget’ talk where your feet are” !

Click HERE for details and to sign up to climb

See ya in Baltimore! Until next time, Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

 

 

 

Posted by on July 3, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, funding-staffing, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Captain Wines and the Fire Critic … here comes trouble!

1 comment

The brothers of B-shift here at “Lucky #13″ must have had one heck of a shift.

I got to work at 06:20 am and found one of the brothers passed out on the couch …. note the drool stain on his shirt..LOL

I figured finding the crew worn out and in this shape was a good sign …

Maybe they ran all the calls last night.

Maybe if they ran em all, I will have a quiet and peaceful tour ….

Friday, Sunday, Tuesday on the 4th of July weekend .. how bad can it be?

Ha … I should have known!

My lucks NOT that good.

Rhett is trading some time with Bugg,  a Lt. at station #5 ; today and got detailed out here. My Lieutenant (Georgie) and Firefighter (Boots) are both off today so I actually needed 2 bodies. One came from #5 and the other from the South side.

Last week, they detailed  Dennis Croft  out here with me and now they send Rhett …. WHAT ARE THEY THINKING?!?  LOL

It’s like I’m playing cards with my brother’s kids or something!

I jumped on him right off the bat. You gotta get ahead of a fretter first thing or they’ll eat ya alive. I mean just look at that grin … GUILTY!

I may have jumped a little too hard … he’s been trying to kiss up all day. Let me get that for ya Capt. Let me do that for Capt. You need something to drink Capt. …. it’s sickening … I threw up in my mouth twice.

The poor little fella went as far to bake me a cake. Today is my 20th anniversary of being on the job.

I had to blur out the icing job to keep PETA off my back. I think he was trying to draw a rabbit but only put one ear on it. I didn’t want to smear the good name of this site with a picture of what appeared to be a wounded one ear rabbit.

Here’s a better shot ….. oops … I’d better blur that one out too.

Funny thing is ….. it really didn’t look like a rabbit at all. Hummmmm?

Well, at least the little fella was thinking about me. I really shouldn’t have been so hard on him this morning.

He deserves more than that. After all, we’re more than good friends … we’re tight. Hell, he’s just like having another Buckaroo around …. only a few inches taller and a few pounds heavier. Wait … the Buckaroo may be taller than him now but you get the point ….LOL

Speaking of Rhett, we’re gearing up to get back on the road! Those of you who follow our sites know that we’ve done a lot of traveling over the past year or so. Our latest adventure was traveling up to the Jersey Shore to present his “Social Media” class. See related posts  HERE  and  HERE .

Our next big adventure is just around the corner …

We’re headed to Baltimore for the Firehouse Expo July 19-23!

This is going to be a GREAT trip.  We’re going up with Firefighter Netcast  and will be located in booth 743 with Fire Geezer  and Statter 911 .  Geezer even has details on how to get a FREE PASS to the exhibit hall … click HERE to learn how. If you get the chance, stop by for a visit!

Captain Willie Wines (Ironfiremen.com) and Chief Billy Goldfeder at the NFFF Memorial weekend 2010

I have posted in the past about some big announcements concerning the trip.

We were planning to shave my mustache.

Yea … as in off. We were going to do it as a charity event at Expo and donate the proceeds to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation to help support a family over their Memorial weekend.

Sadly, the deal has fallen through …. I’m not sure how I feel about it. I mean my mustache means a lot to me but the families of our fallen Brothers and Sisters have lost a whole lot more than facial hair.

If loosing the stache could have helped support those families I would have shaved it with a pickhead axe!

Don’t worry …. we’ve found another way to help support the NFFF and the families of our fallen.

Rhett (aka The Fire Critic) and I will be participating in the  9/11 Memorial Stair Climb  at Firehouse Expo! Captain Kevin Totten (Salem Fire / EMS) will also be joining us on the trip / climb this year.

That’s right … 110 flights of stairs in full turnout  gear!

Time didn’t allow our brothers of the FDNY to complete their climb so, (in their honor) we’ll do it for them! That while benefiting the NFFF and families of our fallen.

WE NEED YOUR HELP !   So far, there is only like 100 or so members signed up for the climb. The planners were looking and hoping for 343 participants.

DETAILS AND SIGN UP FOR THE 2011 FIREHOUSE EXPO MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB

I may need a little extra help ….

I think I’m gonna have to carry Rhett.

He’s already complaining about a sore elbow. He says his tummy feels “funny”, he may be getting a cold and his feet itch.

 He’s also worried about the 2 hrs time limit and his “poop” schedule.

He’s mentioned something about maybe needing to help Statter carry his cameras etc. blah  blah  blah … excuses excuses … I guess Totten and I will have to carry the little guy.

Anyway, the three of us will be there and climbing! Afterwards, all bets are off. I don’t know which bar we’ll end up in but make sure to check in with us (here, Firecritic.com, FaceBook or Twitter) and join us for a beer …. or 20!  LOL

See Rhett’s post on the climb HERE

I’ll post more on the climb and who I’m climbing in memory of in future post. Until then, make your plans to attend the Expo, stop by booth #743 and participate in the climb!

Ok, I’m gonna stop here for now. I’ve got to fix Rhett’s milk, lay out his “go home” cloths for in the morning and get him tucked in. I’ll check back soon. We’re back Sunday and Tuesday.

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by on July 1, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,