02-2013 February.pdf

FirefighterFirefighterFebruary 2013

Ohio State Firefighters’ Association

FIREFIGHTER CLOSE CALLS

FEATURE ARTICLE: Winter Health andSafety Tips

Mifflin TownshipNames New Fire Chief

FEATURE DEPARTMENT: Magnolia Fire Department

Subscription/Membership/Advertising

Rodger SansomP.O. Box 400

Mogadore, OH 44260-04001-800-825-OSFA

Non-member subscriptions are available to recognized fire service agencies,government officials, and libraries.

Rates upon request

OHIO FIREFIGHTER is an official publication of The Ohio State Firefighters’ Association. It is

published six times a year to circulate information about the fire service in the State of Ohio

Chairman of the Board

Mark Roberts3496 S. Weymouth RoadMedina, OH 44256-7204

[email protected]

President

Jason Pollitt3747 Bass Road

Williamsburg, OH 45176513-824-9106

[email protected]

1st Vice President

Tim Adams35810 Neff Road

Grafton, OH 44044330-483-4923

[email protected]

2nd Vice President

Mark Resanovich1301 Woodland Drive

Uniontown, OH 44685-9521330-896-0728

[email protected]

Secretary/Treasurer

Rodger SansomP.O. Box 400

Mogadore, OH 44260-0400800-825-OSFA

[email protected]

ChaplainVacant

Legal CounselPorter “Chip” Welch

P.O. Box 657Sunbury, OH 43074

614-774-0390Fax: 740-625-6271

Nat. Volunteer Fire CouncilRoger Bair - Chairperson2851 Hallock Young Rd.

Warren, OH 44481330-824-2676

Tim Adams - Alternate

[email protected]

PSS - Fire SubcommitteePhil McLean

3356 Revere RoadRichfield, OH 44286-9705

330-659-4507Eric Waltemire – MemberMark Mankins – Member

PSS Representatives EMS:Mark Resanovich - MemberDeanna Harris - Member

Credentials, Ways & MeansSteve Skeldon

Scott Skeldon - Member

Resolutions – S.E.R.C. Willie Brantingham

P.O. Box 79Winona, OH 44493

330-222-1920

AuditScott McClellan – Term Ex 15

1206 Everbright DrUniontown, OH 44685

330-472-0260Jerry Lupfer – Term Ex 16

Budget ReviewRichard Donley - Chairperson

7683 Olde 8 RoadBoston Heights, OH 44236

330-653-5913Paul Tieman - Member

Don Alexander - Member

Conference ChairmanRodger SansomP.O. Box 400

Mogadore, Ohio 44260800-825-OSFA

[email protected]

EducationDan Romanoff

279 Redfern RoadChippewa Lake, OH 44215-9602

330-769-4686 (H)330-410-3796(C)

V.F.I.S. Insurance &Insurance Committee

Joe Stewart69 Foster-Maineville Road

P.O. Box 279Maineville, OH 45039

Darlene Kimball - Co-Chair

Legal Defense Trust FundTim Adams - Chairman - Term Exp 16

35810 Neff RoadGrafton, OH 44044-9260

(330) 483-4923Jason Pollitt - Member - Term Exp 13Scott McClellan - Member - Term Exp 15Jerry Lupfer - Member - Term Exp 14

Rodger Sansom - Comptroller1-800-825-6732

Ohio Rural Fire CouncilHarold SparksP.O. Box 72

Fayettville, OH 45118513-875-3721

Willie Brantingham - Alternate Roger Bair - Alternate

Scholarships & AwardsBecky Mole - Chairperson

35253 Grafton Eastern RoadGrafton, OH 44044

440-308-6192Scott Skeldon - MemberJerry Lupfer - Member

Radio FrequencyScott Skeldon

9689 US Highway 42, NorthPlain City, OH 43064

614-873-8990

NominationsHarold SparksP.O. Box 72

Fayetteville, OH 45118-0072513-875-3721Cliff Mason

Legislative CommitteeJerry Lupfer - Chairperson7726 Richardson RoadGroveport, OH 43125

614-836-5426

Cliff Mason - MemberMark Roberts - MemberRoger Bair - Member

YouthDaniel Bainum - Chairman Jim Urzykowski - MemberJerald Miller - MemberBrett Bowen - Member

MembershipTim Adams

35810 Neff RoadGrafton, OH 44044

330-483-4923Rick Bromley - North & EastScott McClellan - North & EastPaul Tieman - South & West

WebmasterRodger SansomP.O. Box 400

Mogadore, Ohio 44260800-825-OSFA

[email protected]

Past PresidentsRichard DonleyWilliam ShroyerRaleigh JuilleratGeorge BrownKen LaughlinHarold SparksDane WilliamsRodger SansomJerry LupferRoger Bair

G. Thomas ManningPaul TiemanMark Roberts

February 2013 OSFA NEWS 3

IN THIS ISSUEOfficers Pages ............................4-8

SERC Minutes..........................10-11

FEATURE ARTICLEWinter Health and Safety ........14-16

Miflin Names New Fire Chief ..20-21

FEATURE DEPARTMENTMagnolia Fire Dept ......................22

Scholarships / Awards ............25-33

Firefighter Close Calls ............34-35

OFFICERS and COMMITTEES

FEATURE ARTICLE:Winter Health and Safety Tips

visit us onthe web!

4 OSFA NEWS February 2013

Well, hello!... I can’t believe it isalready the beginning of a new year,and it’s going to be a good one forthe O.S.F.A.

First, I would like to start out bytelling you about our youth commit-tee and the things they are involvedin. The committee has the OhioYouth Fire & EMS TrainingAcademy, or what we like to callOYFETA, that was started back in2004. The camp takes place everyyear in July, with this year’s campscheduled for July 7th thru the 13th.

The purpose of OYFETA is tohelp Fire Explorers, Jr. Firefighters,Fire Cadets and other youth mem-bers of fire departments develop newskills and create new friendshipsthat will last a lifetime.

In addition to the training camp,they have some one day eventsplanned at different locations around the state.

We are also underway with theplanning of this year’s conference in August.

I would also like to mention thatthe association has a Line of DutyDeath benefit for our members at noextra charge, but your departmentmust register for it. So please takethe time to see if your chief or adesignee has sent it in.

The association continues towork with the Ohio Fire Academy tocreate the best curriculum possibleto serve the firefighters in Ohio. Anyfeedback our members can providewill get to the correct person as we

continue to improve the delivery andprocess of training and education.

We will also continue to workwith Ohio Fire Alliance regardingsome key issues affecting the fire service.

If your department is NOT part ofthe Legal Defense Trust fund, now isthe time to join. The association haspaid two claims to defend individualscharged with vehicular homicidewhile in the performance of theirduties. The cost is a one-time fee of $7.00 a member, and it is wellworth it.

I hope to see everyone at the nextboard meeting on April 13th. Themeetings start at 5 pm and our newlocation is the Country Inn andSuites Columbus Airport-East in theReynoldsburg area.

If you have interest in serving ona committee just let me know. If Ican help you in any way, I can bereached at (513) 824-9106 or e-mail [email protected]

Jason Pollitt

PRESIDENT

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

No, this is not in the wrongplace. I have moved to the posi-tion of 1st Vice President dueto the resignation of BobNorman. Bob found it neces-sary to resign from the boarddue to family matters. We wishhim well and he will be missedby the association.

At the last Executive Board

meeting, the Legal DefenseTrust Fund trustees met toconsider an amendment to theTrust. By unanimous vote, thetrustees approved the amend-ment that withholds the benefits of the fund to anyonecharged with vehicular homi-cide if they are also chargedwith driving under the influenceof drugs or alcohol. Thetrustees of the LDTF,Association Officers, andExecutive Board of the OSFAfeel that we cannot condoneDUI by paying for the defense of anyone accused of it. To read

the exact language of the

amendment, please read the

article by legal council, Chip

Welch, on page 6.

The conference committeehas started getting everythingready for this year’s conference,so don’t forget to mark you calendars for the second week-end of August. Remember thisis an election year for your officers and anyone running for office must have their lettersof intent to the NominationsCommittee by the board meeting on the secondSaturday of April.

Timothy Adams

Tim Adams

I hope everyone had a safeand enjoyable holiday seasonand that the winter season hasn’t taken too much of a toll on your daily activities.

I would like to thank every-one who took the time to sendtheir updated rosters for theLegal Defense Trust Fund. It isimportant to note that yourDefense Fund membership isnot considered up-to-date if youdo not have a current roster onfile and if your dues for theassociation are not current.

There are no additional feesrequired unless your member-ship increases from the numberof members you originally paidfor. Trust fund members havereceived a notice of what wehave on file for your departmentthat was mailed with your duesnotice. Failure to supply uswith a current roster will delayany payments should the fundbe needed. Roster forms areavailable on our website,www.ohiofirefighters.org, or canbe submitted to me via email.

Dues notices were mailedaround the beginning ofDecember. Please make sureyou update the information onthe remittance form so we haveyour current information onfile. Those of you who have paidon the five year plan shouldhave received an informationalupdate form to returnto us. Please try to get your

dues to me as soon as possibleto save an extra mailingexpense for reminder notices.

I will be mailing your mem-bership certificates and cardssometime around the middle ofFebruary. Please remember thatthe dues period runs fromJanuary 1st through December31st.

There are still 48 depart-ments that have not registeredfor the free Line of Duty Deathbenefit that is offered by theassociation as part of yourmembership fees. This free ben-efit will provide a one-time,immediate payment to the fami-ly of your members, shouldthey die in the line of duty. Theonly requirement is that yourdepartment must have a regis-tration form on file and thatcurrent beneficiary informationis on file at your station. Pleasedo not penalize your membersby not taking advantage of thisimportant benefit. Registrationforms are available on the website.

The Ohio State Firefighters’Association offers many otherbenefits to its members.Departments should look intosponsoring an educational sem-inar. Our Education Committeewill be happy to tailor an edu-cation seminar to meet yourneeds. There are also scholar-ships for fire training and para-medic school available. We offerDistinguished Service Awardsfor your retiring members.These are just a few of the ben-efits available to our membersthat are not being used on aregular basis. These and manyother opportunities are avail-able to our members as well.Please call me at 800-825-6732

if you have any questions aboutthese or any other programsoffered by the association.

Each county association ispermitted to have a county rep-resentative attend the quarterlyexecutive board meeting withvoting privileges. This givesyour county a chance to vote onthe decisions that will be madeaffecting the fire service at thestate level. There are also leg-islative, EMS board and firetraining updates discussed ateach meeting. As of theJanuary meeting, we have hadvery few county representativesin attendance. Representativesmust be pre-registered with theSecretary-Treasurer to havevoting privileges. Registrationforms are available on thewebsite.

It is not too early to startmaking plans for the annualconference that will be heldAugust 8th through the 11th inBoston Heights. Information isavailable on the website or bycontacting any of the officers.

I regret to inform our mem-bers that 1st Vice President BobNorman has resigned from hisoffice for personal reasons. Wewill miss Bob’s leadership andexpertise. Bob was dedicated toour association and I am surehis decision was a difficult one.“Thank you, Bob, for your serv-ice to the O.S.F.A. and to thefire service in the state of Ohio.”

We value our members. Ifthere is anything the officerscan do to help you or yourdepartment, please don’t hesi-tate to contact us. We needyour input to best serve yourneeds.

Rodger Sansom

SECRETARY / TREASURER



Unfortunately we have allread the news reports or heardstories of firefighters that haveconsumed alcohol (or other illicitsubstances) and then driven anapparatus on an emergencyresponse or even in the normalcourse of their duties. Thoughallegations and rumors havecirculated in the past few years,Ohio’s fire service has been fortunate in that we have notexperienced an incident involvingan intoxicated operator of anemergency apparatus.

The Trustees of the OhioState Firefighters’ AssociationLegal Defense Trust Fund havetaken a proactive approach to theissue of apparatus drivers thatare allegedly under the influenceof drugs and/or alcohol. TheTrust Fund was created to pro-vide for the legal defense of amember firefighter who ischarged with one of the vehicularhomicide statutes as a result ofan accident that occurred whilein the line of duty. The Trusteesfeel that it is important to main-tain the integrity of the TrustFund, the Association, and Ohio’sfire service by ensuring that theTrust Fund is not involved withdefending an allegedly intoxicatedapparatus operator. Therefore,effective January 12, 2013, theLegal Defense Trust Fund will notfund the legal defense of a mem-ber firefighter who is chargedunder Ohio’s vehicular homicide

statutes AND charged withbeing under the influence ofdrugs and/or alcohol. A copy ofthe language of the Amendmentis provided below.

Hopefully this Amendmentprompts your Department toreview their policies and proce-dures with respect to operatingemergency vehicles and reportingfor duty after consuming alcohol.If your Department doesn’t havea comprehensive driving policy,now is the perfect time to draftand implement one. Also, doesyour Department have a policy onpost-accident drug and alcoholtesting or even a drug-free work-place program? If not, I wouldencourage you to contact theBureau of Worker’sCompensation as they have grantprograms that will help youdevelop and implement drug-freeworkplace programs.

AMENDMENT TO THE OHIOSTATE FIREFIGHTERS’

ASSOCIATION LEGAL DEFENSETRUST FUND RULES &

REGULATIONS

WHEREAS: The Executive Boardof the Ohio State Firefighters’Association and the Board ofTrustee of the Legal DefenseTrust Fund entered into a trustagreement on October 13, 1979.The purpose of such agreementbeing to provide payment for alegal defense for certain membersof the Association who elect to bemembers of said fund and whoare charged with the crime ofvehicular homicide; and,

WHEREAS: Since the date of saidagreement, fire departments inthe State of Ohio have experi-enced vehicular accidents whereaccusations have been made thatdrivers of responding fire appara-tus may or may not have beenunder the influence of drugsand/or alcohol at the time of theaccident; and,

WHEREAS: Ensuring that theLegal Defense Trust Fund is sup-porting and defending thosemember firefighters that reflecthonorably upon the profession offirefighting is an integral require-ment to providing the benefit andprotection of the Legal DefenseTrust Fund to AssociationMembers;

NOW THEREFORE, BE ITRESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:1. That Section VI Coverage of

the Rules and Regulations ofthe Legal Defense Trust FundAgreement is hereby amendedto include the following lan-guage:

Upon notifying the Trusteesof the Legal Defense TrustFund that an individualMember wishes to make aclaim against the TrustFund, the Chairman of theTrust Fund Trustees and/orhis designee shall verify thecharge(s) alleged by theState of Ohio against theMember. Verification shalloccur by the Member producing a copy of thecharges and/or indictmentto the Chairman of theTrust Fund.

Porter “Chip” Welch

LEGAL COUNSEL

AMENDMENT TO THE LEGAL DEFENSE TRUST FUND


Upon receipt of the charge(s) and/orindictment, the Chairman of the TrustFund shall verify if any of the chargesalleged against the Member include analleged violation of Revised Code §4511.19(as amended). If the Member is alleged by the State of Ohio to have vio-lated this section of the Revised Code, thenthe Chairman of the Trust Fund shall noti-fy the Member that the Trust Fund hasdenied the Member’s claim against theTrust Fund.

There are no other changes to the Rules andRegulations of the Legal Defense Trust FundAgreement. All other portions of the Rules andRegulations of the Legal Defense Trust FundAgreement are hereby reaffirmed and ratifiedand shall continue in full force and effect asunchanged.______________________________________________This article is provided solely for informationalpurposes. This article is not, nor should it be construed as, legal advice. If you have specificissues, questions, and/or concerns, contact competent legal counsel.

A NOTE FROM PHIL McLEANDear all,

Just a short note to thank many of you that I have been working with through theUniversity of Akron since 1995. Many co-workers, fire chiefs, and friends havehelped me through many projects, so many thanks to all of you !!

Recent pension law changes have caused me to leave this job that I truly do love.I hope that I may be able to return to continue with the center.

Thanks once again and best to all!! Phil McLean

AMENDOLAENGINEERING, INC.

15711 DETROIT AVENUELAkEWOODOH 44107

(216) 521-5900

SHAkER AUTO SALVAGE,TOWING & SERVICE

591 SOUTH VAN BUREN AVENUEBARBERTON OH 44203

(330) 848-0202

STATE FIRE MARSHAL

State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers announces theavailability of grant and loan application packagesfor Ohio's fire service. Marshal Flowers alsoannounced a change to the grant process thatencourages collaboration between multiple government agencies.

"This is a great opportunity for local governments towork together to apply for and secure equipmentgrant funds," said State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers."This will allow multiple governments to share fireprotection services in a more effective way."

Two grant programs exist for volunteer fire depart-ments, fire departments serving smaller communi-ties, joint fire districts and governments which con-tract for fire protection from one of these types ofdepartments or private companies. The opportuni-ties include training grants and equipment grants.

The purpose of the training and equipment grantprograms are to offset the cost of state certified firefighter training programs or equipment purchas-es to small local governments in the state of Ohio.

A third program, the Revolving Loan program,assists local governments in funding certain firedepartment major related expenses. It can be usedto expedite the purchase of major firefighting,

rescue or EMS equipment and can also be used forthe construction or renovation of fire departmentbuildings.

The application packages and complete criteria areavailable by clicking the links below.

If you have specific questions, please contactkimberly Hodnett:[email protected] or 614-752-7122.

Apply for a 2012 Training Granthttp://www.com.ohio.gov/fire/docs/FMAC_Training2012.pdf

Apply for a 2013 Fire Department EquipmentGrant (Individual Applicants)http://www.com.ohio.gov/fire/docs/FMAC_Equipment_Individual_2013.pdf

Apply for a 2013 Fire Department EquipmentGrant (Joint Applicants)http://www.com.ohio.gov/fire/docs/FMAC_Equipment_Joint_2013.pdf

Apply to the 2013 Revolving Loan Fund Programhttp://www.com.ohio.gov/fire/docs/FMAC_RevolvingLoan_2013.pdf

STATE FIRE MARSHAL ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF GRANT & LOAN APPLICATIONSSHARED SERVICES ENCOURAGED FOR EQUIPMENT GRANT APPLICATIONS



ELyRIALICENSE BUREAU

605 CHESTNUT COMMONS DRIVEELyRIA OH 44035

(440) 322-0723


To: State Emergency ResponseCommission (SERC)

From: Cindy DeWulf, DAPC &SERC Co-Chair

Subject: October 10th, 2012 SERCMeeting Minutes

Date: November 28th, 2012***************************************The October 10th, 2012 StateEmergency Response Commission(SERC) meeting wascalled to order at the OhioEmergency Management Agency byCindy DeWulf, SERCCo-Chair (Ohio EPA).

14 Voting Members were present:Cindy DeWulf, Ohio EPA, SERCCo-ChairSima Merick, Ohio EMA, SERC Co-Chair (Alternate)Tim Kern, AG OfficeDan Fisher, Public UtilitiesCommission of OhioStaff Lieutenant Kenneth Kocab,State Highway PatrolRandy Van Dyne, EnvironmentalRepresentativeWillie Brantingham, VolunteerFirefighters’ RepresentativeRaenell Nagel, EnvironmentalRepresentativeRick Hoffman, ProfessionalFirefighters’ RepresentativeToby Wagner, Ohio Department ofNatural ResourcesRichard Hughes, IndustryRepresentativeBrian Galligher, LEPCRepresentativeSteve Wagner, Ohio Department ofHealthAl Phillips, Ohio Department ofTransportationJeff Leming, State Fire Marshal’sOffice

3 Voting Members were not presentJack Pounds, ChemicalManufacturer RepresentativeClyde McKenzie, Fire ChiefRepresentative

Members not appointed by GovernorCounty Interest Representative(Vacant)Elected Official Representative(Vacant) – Who is this?

Waive the 24 Hour Rule:Al Phillips made the motion, seconded by Willie Brantingham,that the 24-hour rule bewaived.

Record of Vote: 12 -For0- Against0- Abstain

Approval of August 8th, 2012SERC Meeting Minutes:Cindy asked for a motion to acceptthe August 8th, 2012 SERC meet-ing minutes. A motion was madeby Dan Fisher. Motion to acceptwas seconded by Randy Van Dyne.

Record of Vote: 12 -For0 -Against0 -Abstain

SERC Committee Reports:Executive:

Cindy DeWulf stated that theExecutive Committee met prior totoday’s meeting.

First item discussed centeredon pending SERC enforcementorders to the Jefferson CountyLEPC for their LEPC Plan beingout of concurrence. The orderswere not issued because the LEPCsubmitted their Plan to bereviewed. Tim Kern (AGO) statedthat the strategy of issuing ordersor the threat of such issuanceseems to be working in our favor.Steve Wagner (Health) asked if theSERC should accelerate the timeli-ness of issuance of orders to non-compliant LEPCs. Cindy DeWulfnoted that a template for ordershas been developed so that futureorders should be issued quickly.

Cindy stated that theCommittee needs to formallyorganize and kick-off the ad hoccommittee that will be identifyingpotential changes to the ORC.Cindy noted that this activity couldtake one year.

The Committee briefly dis-cussed the past LEPC Conferenceand wanted to thank WillieBrantingham and his Training andEducation Committee for anotherwonderful conference.

Cindy stated that a topic forfuture discussion is a proposal tomove the SERC meetings to quar-terly. The committee is reviewing

key voting issues and dates ascalled for under our statute. Cindyrequests the working committeesto evaluate their timelines as welland it is the committee’s intent totry and finalize at the December2012 SERC meeting. Vikki Bunting(Ohio EMA) has strong concerns tothis proposal due to issuance oforders to LEPCs and the 60-daycorrective action plan guidelines.Cindy stated that the issuance oforders is an action of the ExecutiveCommittee. The ExecutiveCommittee could schedule addi-tional meetings as needed toaddress orders. Willie Brantinghamstated that the Training andEducation Committee needs tomeet at least quarterly with RandyVan Dyne commenting that thecommittee can set additional meetings as needed.

Cindy advised the membershipthat the financial disclosure is anannual reporting requirement andthe forms can be found on-line.SERC pays the filing fee associatedwith such report. Ethics trainingalso is required and it is our hopeto have ethics training followingthe December 2012 SERC meetingfor those interested to attend.

As most are now aware, MelHouse (EMA) and Frank Conway(SFM) are no longer members onthe SERC. Mel has taken a new jobwithin the Department of PublicSafety and Frank Conway hasbeen moved over within SFM tooversee the Prevention Program atthe Marshal’s Office.

Administrative & Funding:The committee met prior to

today’s SERC meeting.Cindy stated that the commit-

tee discussed three LEPC fundingrequests. Clark County LEPCseeks approval to contribute a fairshare to the countywide multi-levelcommunication system beinginstalled within the county. Therequest was approved. SummitCounty requested if LEPC fundscould be used to deal withasbestos removal at a buildingdonated to a fire department fortraining purposes. The committeedenied this request due to fallingoutside the intent of EPCRA

SERC MINUTES


program. Darke County LEPCrequested if LEPC funds can beused to support hazmat physicalsfor the responders. This requestwas denied in accordance to theSERC approved LEPC FundingGuidance document.

Cindy continued with the com-mittee reformatting and makingproposed changes to the LEPCGrant Application and LEPC FiscalReport. The committee will e-mailthe drafts to LEPCs seeking com-ment and it is our intent to finalizeat the December 2012 SERCmeeting.

Operations & Issues:Brian Galligher stated that the

committee is at a standstill withthe draft/update to the LEPCPlanning Document. Committeeneeds to have direct dialogue witheither Sima Maerick or NancyDragani to get their input and onhow to proceed.

Training and Education:Willie Brantingham and his com-mittee reviewed and discussed theevaluations from the past LEPCConference. Over-all the feedbackwas good and comments werefavorable. The negative feedbackmostly centered on the SERCmeeting that lasted only 30minutes and many SERC membershad nothing to report. LEPCs trav-eled a good distance to observe aSERC meeting as part of theConference and this was indeednot a good mark for SERC.

Willie then continued in themeeting discussed a need to identi-fy program priorities for training orin need of statewide coordination.The committee may talk to OhioEMA field liaisons to determinewhat is going on in the countiesthat can be addressed at theconference.

The committee then discussedthe idea of moving the LEPCConference to another month elim-inate the conflict with summervacations. Willie wants the com-mittee to get back to the annualgoal setting and seek LEPC feedback.

Don McDonald (Stark County)stated that SERC does a good jobin plans and exercise, but couldenhance the interaction with theLEPCs on other issues. Few LEPCrepresentatives attend SERC meet-ings. The items discussed at theSERC meetings often do not apply

to the LEPCs. Training, arail/highway/trucking safetyevent, communication regardinghow the regulations apply to the oiland gas industry, and attendanceof SERC members at an LEPCmeeting were identified as potentialtopics and activities for the future.

Agency Reports:

EMAOhio EMA indicates that there

is 1 LEPC Exercises up for SFY2013 Exercise Concurrence. RickHoffman made a motion to approveResolution 2012-124 as document-ed. Al Phillips seconded themotion. No discussion.

Record of Vote: 14- For0- Against0- Abstain

Sima Merick continued thatthere are 7 LEPC Plans up for SFY2013 Plan Concurrence. WillieBrantingham made a motion toapprove as documented. KennethKocab seconded the motion. Nodiscussion.

Record of Vote: 14- For0-Against0-Abstain

EPACindy DeWulf introduced

“2011-2103 LEPC MembershipAppointment” Resolutions2012-132 through -137, appoint-ing new LEPC members forFranklin, Ross, Marion,Morrow, Paulding, and StarkCounty LEPCs. Dan Fisher made amotion to approve. Brian Galligherseconded the motion.

Record of Vote: 14- For0- Against0- Abstain

LEPC meeting minutes were pro-vided for Cuyahoga, Gallia,Lawrence, Morrow andWayne Counties.

Other: Dr. E. Douglass Harris,Associate Dean and ResearchProfessor with the Erik JonssonSchool of Engineering andComputer Science at the Universityof Texas at Dallas gave a call-inwebex presentation on the “E-PlanInformation ManagementSoftware.” www.eplannews.utdal-las.edu/

Rick Warren from EMA brieflydiscussed the process for LEPCPlan review. Rick said that eachLEPC must submit updates totheir plans. Each LEPC can submitup to 3 “no change” letters. He alsostated that every LEPC plan mustbe updated during the four yearcycle.

ODNR: No Report

PUCO: No Report

Health: No Report

SHP: No Report

SFM: No Report

ODOT: No Report

AGO: No Report

Other SERC members andAttendees:

Raenell Nagel discussed theOhio Environmental Council’scommunity based training pro-grams. A public forum was heldwith Hardin County’s LEPC andwas very successful. This modelprogram can be used with anyLEPC. She would be happy toshare information with otherLEPCs that are interested in hold-ing this training with the OhioEnvironmental Council

Meeting adjourned.



CFSI and MedicAlert FoundationAccepting Applications forExcellence in Fire Service-BasedEMS Awards Program

WASHINGTON, DC (January 24, 2013)- The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI)and the MedicAlert Foundation announced thatthey are accepting applications for the ThirdAnnual Fire Service-Based EMS Awards to bepresented at the 25th Annual National Fire andEmergency Services Dinner on May 9, 2013 inWashington, DC. The Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Awards Program honors volunteer,career and combination departments that haveestablished innovative and highly effective bestpractices in emergency medical services.Departments selected for their achievements willbe honored at the annual dinner attended by2,000 fire and emergency services leaders fromacross the nation.

"Across this country, we hear of outstandingpractices fire departments have implemented toenhance emergency medical care, leading tohigher survival rates for the victims and greatersafety for our responders," said CFSI PresidentBill Jenaway. "We want to draw national atten-tion to these efforts to encourage other depart-ments to enhance their own practices; hence thisnew program. We thank the MedicAlertFoundation for their support of this initiative-they have an outstanding tradition of makingpositive contributions to public safety."

"Every day in communities across the country,fire personnel are there for all of us in times ofneed. We are equally proud that every day theMedicAlert Foundation is helping fire personneland other first responders protect all of us too"said Andrew B. Wigglesworth, President and CEOof MedicAlert Foundation. "The adaptation of evi-dence-based treatment plans, technology andbest practices is the foundation of effective EMScare. The agencies that empower their EMSproviders to improve on this foundation will leadthe way in patient care and provider safety. Weare proud to sponsor this award which recog-nizes the leaders in fire service-based EMS care."

To download an application and to learn moreabout the Excellence in Fire-Service Based EMS

Awards program,visit www.medicalert.org/awardor www.cfsi.org/awards/awards_ems.cfm#. The deadline for application submissions isMarch 8th.

About Congressional Fire Services Institute(CFSI)Established in 1989, the Congressional FireServices Institute (CFSI) is a nonprofit, nonparti-san policy institute that works with members ofCongress in promoting fire and life safety issues.Working with other national fire service organiza-tions, the Institute focuses its attention onissues that benefit all first responders. Membersof the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, thelargest caucus in Congress, look to CFSI forguidance and information to enhance their levelof understanding about the challenges and needsof our nation's fire and EMS communities. Formore information on CFSI, visit www.cfsi.org.

About MedicAlert Foundation InternationalEstablished in 1956, the nonprofit MedicAlertFoundation International pioneered the use ofmedical IDs and delivers the most dependable,responsive, intelligent and trusted EmergencyIdentification and Medical Information Network.MedicAlert Foundation International provides thefunctionality of an e-health information exchangethrough an innovative combination of a uniquepatient identifier linked to a personal healthrecord and a live 24/7 emergency response serv-ice. MedicAlert Foundation International medicalIDs alert emergency personnel to a member's pri-mary health conditions, medications or implant-ed medical devices. In addition to its 24-houremergency response service, MedicAlertFoundation International also provides familyand caregiver notification so that members canbe reunited with their loved ones. MedicAlertFoundation International services are availablearound the world through a network of interna-tional nonprofit affiliated organizations licensedby the Foundation. Visit www.medicalert.org formore information.

ANNUAL AWARD RECOGNIZES FIRE DEPARTMENTS FOR OUTSTANDINGACHIEVEMENT IN FIRE SERVICE-BASED EMS


SNOW SHOVELING SAFETyKeep walkways around the

home clear of snow and ice. Snowshoveling can cause seriousinjuries or death to people who areelderly, have chronic health prob-lems or are not used to strenuousactivity. If you are in one of thesecategories, you may want to use asnow blower or hire a snowremoval service.

If you choose to do this heavywork yourself, remember that yourbody may tire quicker in the cold.Do not overextend yourself. Takeshort breaks in between shoveling.Exhaustion can make the bodymore susceptible to cold injuries.

Tips:e Wear sturdy shoes with rugged

soles to help prevent slips andfalls.

e Never smoke while shoveling.Tobacco smoke constricts bloodvessels just as cold air does; thecombination could be dangerous.

e If you become short of breathwhile shoveling, stop and rest. Ifyou feel pain or tightness in yourchest, become dizzy, faint or startsweating heavily, stop immedi-ately and call for help.

e Have a partner monitor yourprogress and share the workload.If you have a heart attack, yourpartner can call for help and iftrained, perform cardiopul-monary resuscitation (CPR) untilhelp arrives.

e Use a sturdy, lightweight shovelto push the snow out of the way.If you must lift the snow, takesmall scoops. A shovel-full of drysnow can weigh about fourpounds; wet snow can weigh sig-nificantly more.

e Warm up before shoveling bywalking and stretching yourarms and legs for a few minutes.Warm muscles are less likely tobe injured and work more effi-ciently.

e If you use a snow blower, keep inmind that pushing a snow blowerthrough heavy, packed snow canpresent a health risk.

AVOIDING SLIPS AND FALLSWinter in Ohio can be

unpredictable. Snow, sleet and icyroads and walkways can make get-ting around not only inconvenient,but dangerous.

Use these simple precautions todecrease your risk of falling:e Take it slow. Allow extra time to

get places in the winter. Try toavoid carrying heavy packageswhile walking on ice or snow – itcan leave you feeling unbalanced.

e Keep rock salt, sand and a shovelavailable. Rock salt is a chemicalde-icing compound that reducesthe risk of slipping.

e Wear appropriate footgear. Winterboots provide more traction thantennis or dress shoes. Carry acell phone when walking ininclement weather.

e Ask for help. If you have to walkacross an icy sidewalk or parkinglot, try to find a steady arm tolean on. Most people will gladlyhelp an older person navigate aslippery walkway.

e Continue your exercise regimenindoors, if possible.

e For additional information onpreventing falls, visit the CDCwebsite:www.cdc.gov/features/fallrisks/

HyPOTHERMIAWhen exposed to cold tempera-

tures, the body begins to lose heatfaster than it can be produced.Prolonged exposure to cold willeventually use up your body’sstored energy. The result ishypothermia, or abnormally lowbody temperature. Body tempera-ture that is too low affects thebrain, making the victim unable tothink clearly or move well. Thismakes hypothermia particularlydangerous because a person maynot know it is happening and won’tbe able to do anything about it.

Hypothermia is most likely atvery cold temperatures, but canoccur even at cool temperatures(above 40o F) if a person becomeschilled from rain, sweat or submer-sion in cold water. Hypothermiacan also occur inside a building.The thermostat should be set nolower than 65-70 degrees if theoccupants are 75 years or older.

WINTER HEALTH AND SAFETy TIPSWinter’s various dangers to people can occur suddenly, like a heart attack while

shoveling snow, or slow and stealthily like carbon monoxide poisoning. Hypothermia

and frostbite are always a concern, especially for the elderly and for people with

chronic health conditions. The Ohio Departments of Aging, Health and Mental Health

offer these safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this winter season.

FEATURE ARTICLE


Signs of Hypothermiae Confusion or memory losse Sleepinesse Slowed, slurred speech or shal-

low breathinge Weak pulse or low blood pressuree Exhaustione A change in behavior during cold

weather or a change in the way aperson normally looks

e A lot of shivering or no shivering;stiffness in the arms or legs

e Poor control over body move-ments or slow reactions

e Chilly rooms or other signs thata person has been in a cold place

Who is at risk of hypothermiaand how can it be prevented?Infants younger than one year ofage are at risk. They should neversleep in a cold room and shouldwear warm clothing or a snug-fit-ting sleeper to prevent loss of bodyheat. Do not place blankets in thecrib. Instead use a sleep sack tokeep infants warm. Pre-warm vehi-cles before taking infants out intoextreme cold weather.

Children lose heat faster thanadults do. They have a larger head-to-body ratio than adults do, mak-ing them more prone to heat lossthrough the head. Ensure childrenplaying outside cover their heads(with hats or hoods) and comeinside periodically to warm up.If you don’t eat well, you mighthave less fat under your skin. Fatcan protect your body. It keepsheat in your body. Make sure youare eating enough food to keep upyour weight.

People with serious mental illnesses, developmental or cogni-tive disabilities who may not heartemperature or weather advisorywarnings broadcast on TV or radioor may not fully recognize the sig-nificance of the cold weather warn-ings.

Some medicines can increasethe risk of accidental hypothermia.These include drugs used to treatanxiety, depression, or nausea.Some over-the-counter cold reme-

dies can also cause problems.Some illnesses may make it

harder for your body to stay warm.

They include:e Disorders of the body’s hormone

system such as low thyroid(hypothyroidism)

e Any condition that interferes withthe normal flow of blood such asdiabetes

e Skin problems, such as psoria-sis, cause your body to lose moreheat than normal. Visit your doc-tor regularly to help keep any ill-ness under control, and try tostay away from cold places.

Other health conditions mighthinder the ability for people toeither move to a warmer place, orput on additional clothing, or wrapup in a blanket.

For example:e Severe arthritis, Parkinson’s dis-

ease, or other illnesses can phys-ically make it harder to movearound.

e A debilitating illness such as astroke can leave a person para-lyzed and impair the ability tothink clearly.

e Memory disorders or dementiacan impair the ability to thinkclearly and make simple deci-sions.

e A fall or other injury can hindermovement or judgment.

Alcoholic drinks can also makea person lose body heat faster.People at risk of hypothermiashould use alcohol moderately, if atall. They should not drink alcoholbefore bedtime when the tempera-tures become colder.What can you do if you thinksomeone might have hypothermia?

First, take his or her tempera-ture. If the temperature does notrise above 96 degrees, call for help.This person must be seen by aphysician.

While waiting for help to arrive,keep the person warm and dry.

Wrap the person in extra blankets,coats, towels. Use whatever youmay have available. Your own bodycan serve as warmth. Lie close, butbe gentle. Rubbing the skin of anolder adult can make problemsworse because his/her skin is thin-ner and could easily be torn orinjured by vigorous rubbing. Setthe thermostat for at least 68 to 70degrees.

Remember to check the forecastfor very cold or very windy weather.On these days, it might be best toremain indoors.

FROSTBITEFrostbite is the most common

cold-related injury. Frostbite is aninjury to the body caused by freez-ing of skin tissue. Frostbite causesloss of feeling and color in theaffected areas. It most often affectsthe nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fin-gers or toes. Frostbite can perma-nently damage the body and severecases can lead to amputation. Therisk of frostbite is increased in peo-ple with reduced blood circulation,those who drink alcoholic bever-ages, the elderly and people whoare not dressed properly forextremely cold temperatures.

At the first signs of redness orpain in any skin area, get out ofthe cold or protect any exposedskin – frostbite may be beginning.The following signs may indicatefrostbite: a white or grayish-yellowskin area; skin that feels usuallyfirm or waxy; numbness. A victimis often unaware of frostbite untilsomeone else points it out becausethe frozen tissues are numb.

What to doIf you detect symptoms of frost-

bite, seek medical care. Becauseboth frostbite and hypothermiaresult from exposure, first deter-mine whether the victim also showssigns of hypothermia, as describedabove. Hypothermia is a more seri-ous medical condition and requiresemergency medical assistance.

Continued on next page.


Continued from previous page.

If there is frostbite but no sign ofhypothermia, and immediate med-ical care is not available, proceedas follows:e Get into a warm room as soon as

possible.e Unless absolutely necessary, do

not walk on frostbitten feet ortoes. This can increase the dam-age.

e Immerse the affected area inwarm – not hot – water (the tem-perature should be comfortableto the touch of unaffected partsof the body).

e Or, warm the affected area usingbody heat. For example, the heatof an armpit can be used towarm frostbitten fingers.

e Do not rub the frostbitten areawith snow or massage it, at all.This can cause more damage.

e Do not use a heating pad, heatlamp or the heat of a stove, fire-place or radiator for warming.Affected areas are numb and canbe easily burned.

These steps are not substitutesfor proper medical care.Hypothermia is a medical emer-gency and frostbite should be eval-uated by a healthcare provider. It isa good idea to take a first aid andemergency resuscitation (CPR)course to prepare for cold-weatherhealth problems.Taking preventative action is yourbest defense against having to dealwith extreme cold-weather condi-tions. By preparing your home andcar in advance for winter emergen-cies, and by observing safety pre-cautions during times of extremelycold weather, you can reduce therisk of weather-related health prob-lems.

CARBON MONOxIDEPOISONING AND FIRE

PREVENTIONAs the weather turns cold,

Ohioans look for ways to save onheating costs during these tougheconomic times. The use of alterna-tive heating sources such asportable heaters, fireplaces andwood stoves increases. Fire deathsand carbon monoxide poisoning areincreased risks from using alter-nate heating sources. Home heat-ing equipment is among the topcauses of fires and CO poisoning. The OhioDepartments of Health and Agingsuggest the following safety tips toprevent injury from carbon monox-ide poisoning and fire.

e Install a battery-operated carbonmonoxide detector and smokealarms throughout the home,and check or replace the batter-ies twice a year, when youchange the time on the clocksevery spring and fall. If the COdetector or smoke alarm sounds,leave the building immediatelyand call 911.

e Have a fire safety escape plan.Keep escape routes clear and freeof clutter and trip hazards. Keepa robe, slippers, eye glasses andkeys close to the bed.

e Have your heating system, waterheater, and any other gas, oil orcoal-burning appliance servicedby a qualified technician everyyear.

e Seek prompt medical attention ifyou suspect CO poisoning, or arefeeling dizzy, light-headed ornauseous.

e Do not heat your house by usinga gas oven.

e Do not run or warm a vehicleinside a garage that is attachedto the home, even if the garagedoor is open.

If using a fireplace or wood stove:e Have your chimney or wood stove

inspected and cleaned annuallyby a certified chimney specialist.

e Keep the hearth area clear ofdebris, decorations and flamma-ble material.

e Do not burn anything in a stoveor fireplace that is not vented.

e Do not leave fires burning unat-tended.

If using a portable heater:e Keep the heater at least one foot

away from people, pets andobjects.

e Do not leave portable heaters onwhen no one is home.

e Turn the heater down or offwhen you are sleeping.

e Unplug electricalappliances/heaters when not inuse.

e Never hang damp clothes near aheater to dry them.

For additional information onwinter health and safety, visit thefollowing: Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (CDC)http://emergency.cdc.gov/disas-ters/winter/

Ohio Department of Healthhttp://www.odh.ohio.gov/fea-tures/odhfeatures/winterweather.aspx Ohio Department of Aginghttp://www.aging.ohio.gov/infor-mation/emergencypreparedness/

For additional information on cold weather safety and preparedness, visit the OhioCommittee for Severe WeatherAwareness website at: www.weath-ersafety.ohio.gov.

Article Released by:Ohio Committee for Severe WeatherAwareness Fact SheetContact: Tessie Pollock Ohio Department of Health(614) 644-8562


Ohio Fire Corps 2013 State Conference: A Free Day of Training and Lunch is on US!

This conference is open to Fire Corps programs, fire departments, auxiliaries, and those interested in learning more about Fire Corps! Space is limited, so register today!

March 16, 2013 – 9am to 3pm - Mohican State Lodge www.mohicanstateparklodge.com

Please register for this FREE event at www.ohiofirecorps.com by March 1st, 2013. For those needing lodging the night before, a room block is all set and attendees can call to make reservations at their own

expense. Please call 1-800-282-7275 and ask for the Emergency Management Agency block.

Conference Highlights:

· National Updates: The National Volunteer Fire Council Deputy Director will be giving updates on things at the National Level!

· Fire Prevention & Magic: Learn how fire prevention can be made fun and magical! Fireman Dave and his bag of tricks will make sure the message of fire prevention isn’t forgotten!

· Straight from New York!: The legendary fire recruiter will be on hand to deliver tips and best practices for successful volunteer recruitment.

· Maximizing YOUR Auxiliary: Learn how your auxiliary can become a cost saver and a major resource to your department!

· Bringing Home the Bacon: Tricks of the trade to fund your Fire Corps program will be brought to you by the famous Stella from Oregon!

· Enhance for the Chance: Utilizing youth to educate youth on fire prevention and disaster preparedness.

· Ohio Responds: Learn how you can access a FREE volunteer management system to manage your volunteers!

· And the Winner Is: Here at Fire Corps we like to give out awards and celebrate the success stories of our programs! We will be giving out all kinds of awards this year, check out our website for more information on those – www.ohiofirecorps.com !

· FREE T-Shirt: Act fast and register! You just may be a proud owner of a new Fire Corps shirt (while supplies last)!

We hope to see you at the 2013 Ohio Fire Corps conference!

Please email questions to [email protected]!




Playing the mandolin, fid-dle, banjo or bagpipes is howMifflin Township’s new firechief helps deal with thedemands of the job. Sworn inas fire chief June 14, 2012,Timothy Taylor not only hasmore than the credentials nec-essary to do the job, but hehas been with the MifflinTownship Division of Fire since1992 serving as a battalionchief, lieutenant and firefight-er/paramedic. He replacedChief L. James DeConnick whoserved since 1999.

“What I value most is the family feel, mutual support andprofessionalism at Mifflin,”Taylor said. “I’m standing onthe shoulders of giants.”

The Mifflin TownshipDivision of Fire consists of 77career firefighter/paramedicswho respond to more than7,500 emergency calls per yearand are consistently one of thebusiest fire departments inFranklin County.

“There is a surprise aroundevery corner, and I think therewill continue to be surprisesuntil I have been here all fourseasons,” Taylor said about his

first seven months in the newrole. “I want to continue tobuild on the progress we havemade so far and continue themomentum that has beengained through the years.”

One of the biggest adjust-ments of the new job is thework schedule. Taylor workedshifts — 24 hours on/48 hoursoff — since 1992 and nowworks 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Mondays through Fridays.

Taylor, a native ofClintonville, was one of a fewwho graduated from highschool in 1978 having simulta-neously completed firefightercertification training at theNorthwest Career Center inColumbus, Ohio. There wereno firefighter jobs availablewhen he graduated so hejoined the U.S. Air Force as afirefighter wherehe served for seven years fin-ishing his tour as the assistantfire chief of operations in KingSalmon, Alaska. While servingin the military, Taylor majoredin fire science through theCommunity College of the AirForce and upon dischargereturned to The Ohio StateUniversity to earn a bachelor’sdegree in psychology graduat-ing sum cum laude. In 1996,he finished courseworkthrough Regents College tobecome a registered nurse.

“We’re very fortunate to beblessed with an individual ofhis caliber to lead the firedepartment,” said MifflinTownship Trustee JosephSpanovich. “I’ve watched himwhen he was a battalion chiefat a fire scene, and he was verycalm, cool andcollected.”

Mifflin firefighters/para-medics enthusiastically wel-comed Taylor to his new role.

“I think Chief Taylor is afireman’s chief. What I meanby that is you have a guy inthe front office who will doanything he can to make hismen successful,” said GregGilbert, firefighter/paramedicat Station 131. “He always hasan open door, and he caresabout his men personally andprofessionally. He was also oneof the best battalion chiefs Ihave ever worked for.”

Taylor’s job experienceincludes working as a fireclaims adjuster for State Farm,a manufacturer’s representa-tive for Clow Water SystemsCo., and staff nurse withBerger Health Systems andwith NetCare. He joined MifflinTownship Division of Fire in1992 and later that yearattended Grant Hospital’straining to become a para-medic. He has worked part-time for Nationwide Children’sHospital’s emergency depart-ment and urgent care centerssince 1992 on his days off.

“It is unique for a fire chiefto have a degree in psychology,but I believe that helps ChiefTaylor in dealing with our fire-fighters who come from variousbackgrounds,” Spanovich said.“He’s broad-minded and one ofthe few individuals I know whotakes everything into consider-ation when making a decision.”

Taylor has a 14-year-oldson known as the “skateboardkid” and 19-year-old daughterwho is a student at OhioUniversity studying speechpathology. He lives in Dublin

Mifflin Township Names Timothy TaylorNEW FIRE CHIEF

by Lynn Bruno Smith, Mifflin Township public information officer


and attends the annual Irish Festivalbecause he enjoys Celtic music.

“When you are sitting there learning to playan instrument, it takes away all of the angstof the job,” Taylor said.

Pictured (from left) 2 Unit from Station 131; Michael

Cordell, Greg Gilbert, Kenneth King, Chief Timothy

Taylor, Robert Gault, Bill Kirsop and Tom Lee.

All the guys are firefighters/paramedics except

Lee who is a lieutenant.


FEATURE DEPARTMENT

Established in 1944

25 Members: All Volunteer

35 Fires per year55 Other Calls per year

Officer Names and RankDonnie Nicholson....ChiefEric White ..............1st Asst. ChiefDave Rock ..............2nd Asst. ChiefJay Herstine ..........1st Captain

Equipment1-Pumper • 1-Rescue • 1-Tanker1-1996 F-150 4x4 Brush Vehicle1-1978 Jeep CJ7 4x4 Brush Vehicle

MAGNOLIA FIRE DEPARTMENT

Pictured Below From left to right:

Capt. Jay Herstine, Jeanine Rock,

Scott Snyder, Bob Chapman, Chief

3 Dave Rock, Capt. Scott Eckinger,

Capt. Steve Loomis, Chief 1 Don

Nicholson, Clay Loomis

MagnoliaFire Dept.


Do you have a Cadet/Jr. Firefighters/Explorers program? If you do, the Ohio Youth Fire &EMS Training Academy has a great opportunity for your group! Each year the OSFA sponsors aweek-long camp at Hocking College where youth from around the state and nation come togetherto learn, train, build friendships, and further their desire to serve our nation as firefighters.Former attendees have begun careers in the fire & EMS service as paid and volunteer personnel.The youth of today are the future of the fire service tomorrow and it is imperative that we instillin them the honor, tradition, and sacrifice that is part of our great profession. Please check outour website ohioyouthfire.org for more information about sending your young men and women tothis week that they will never forget. If you are an Firefighter or EMT who has a desire to makean impact on these young people, please contact me at [email protected].


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The ______________________________________Fire Department desires to enroll in the Ohio State

Firefighters' Association's Line of Duty death benefit program. We agree to abide by all of

the regulations set forth by the Awards Committee governing this award.

Total members of the department_______________.

Chief or immediate contact person____________________________________________.

Phone number for immediate contact_________________________________________.

Department phone number_________________________________________.

The following are the regulations that govern the administration of this award:1) Firefighter or EMT must be a member of a Fire Department or EMS Squad that is

a member of the OSFA.

2) The person’s death must occur during or as a result of an emergency incident.Emergency is defined as a response for fire, rescue, emergency medical activity, orthe presumption that an emergency has occurred.

3) In the event of a heart attack, it must have occurred within twenty-four (24)hours of the emergency.

4) Preferably the death should be reported to the O.S.F.A. within twenty-four (24)hours of the occurrence. The O.S.F.A. will make every effort to deliver this moneywithin twenty-four (24) hours of the notification.

5) The member fire department must have pre-registered with the O.S.F.ASecretary/Treasurer as to the number of members on their active roster and cur-rent beneficiary information must be kept on file with the department.

6) The decision of the Awards Committee will be final.

In the event that current beneficiary information is not on file, the benefit will be paid inthe following order:

1) Surviving spouse.2) Surviving parents.3) Surviving next of kin (brother or sister)4) Person handling the funeral arrangements.

___________________________________________________________ _____________________________Signature (Chief or Responsible Person) Date

OHIO STATE FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATIONREGISTRATION FORM

FOR LINE-OF-DUTY DEATH BENEFITS


1. The nominee must be a current member of the OhioState Firefighters’ Association.

2. The nominee must be an active member of his/her FireDepartment. (Unless posthumous).

3. The nominee must have performed a service above andbeyond the call of duty.

RULES1. The nominee’s name must be presented by the Chief, an

Officer, or if a County Association,by the President.2. The application form must be completed and mailed to

the Awards Chairman no later thanJune 1st for inclusionin that year’s presentation.

3. Consideration shall be from May 1st to the following April30th of each year.

4. Posthumous Awards shall be presented to the next of kin.

5. One award shall be given each year, if applications meetqualifications.

6. Each County Association is encouraged to conduct anawards program and then nominate their winner for theOSFA Firefighter of the Year Award.

7. The decision of the OSFA Awards Committee shall be final.

OSFA FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR AWARD QUALIFICATIONS

OHIO STATE FIREFIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC.“Firefighter of the year Award”

Nomination Form

Firefighter’s Name, Rank, and Mailing Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Date of Incident:___________________________________________________________________________________________Details of Incident in Full:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________(If more space is needed, attach further details to this blank. Send pictures and news clippings of the incident.)

IF THIS IS A POSTHUMOUS AWARD, SEND THE NAME OF PERSON OF WHO WILL ACCEPT

___________________________________________________________________________________________

I HAVE PERSONALLY EXAMINED THE ABOVE INCIDENT AND NOMINATE THE ABOVEFIREFIGHTER FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE OHIO STATE FIREFIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION“FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR” PROGRAM.

SIGNED ________________________________________________ DATE ________________Rank, Fire Department or County Association

NOTE: THIS APPLICATION MUST BE MAILED NO LATER THAN JUNE 1ST FOR CONSIDERATIONPlease return this completed form to: Becky Mole

35253 Grafton Eastern RoadGrafton, Ohio 44044


“Charles J. Getz” O.S.F.A. Firefighters’ Scholarship Award

“Charles J. Getz” Firefighter ScholarshipApplication Form - Please type or print!

NAME _________________________________________________AGE ________ S.S. # _____________________

HOME ADDRESS ________________________________________________HOME PHONE ________________

_______________________________________________________________ SINGLE _______ MARRIED _______

NUMBER OF DEPENDENTS________OWN/RENT HOME__________LIVE WITH PARENTS___________

OCCUPATION ______________________________________________________ ANNUAL INCOME _________

NAME OF HIGH SCHOOL ________________________________________YEAR GRADUATED ___________

NAME OF FIRE DEPT. ________________________________________________ RANK ___________________

OTHER FUNDING AVAILABLE TO YOUR FROM DEPARTMENT, CITY, TOWNSHIP, ETC.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

TYPE OF FIRE DEPT.: PAID _____ VOL ____ CITY ____ VILLAGE ____ TOWNSHIP ____ PRIVATE _____

DATE YOU ENTERED FIRE SERVICE ______________ TOTAL YEARS OF FIRE SERVICE ____________

LIST OTHER FIRE SERVICE AFFILIATIONS:

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

LIST ANY OTHER FIRE SERVICE COLLEGE DEGREES OR ACCREDITATION:

________________________________________________________________________________________________

INSTITUTION AND COURSE INFORMATION

INSTITUTION NAME AND DEPT.: ________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS _______________________________________________________ PHONE # _____________________

COURSE TITLE FROM CATALOG ________________________________ COURSE # ____________________

COURSE BEGINS __________________ ENDS __________________ FULL TUITION COST ______________

TYPE OF DEGREE OR ACCREDITATION ________________________________________________________A PHOTO COPY OF COURSE DESCRIPTION FROM THE COURSE CATALOGMUST BE ATTACHED TO THIS APPLICATION!* Recipient of scholarship may be subject to receive a 1099.

Continued on next page

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:• The applicant must be a member of a Fire Department

belonging to the Ohio State Firefighters’ Association.• The applicant must be recommended by the fire chief.• The applicant must be a high school graduate.• The applicant must be 18 years old. (minimum age)• The applicant must show interest in the fire service.• The applicant must write a resume of their Fire Service back-

ground and future goals.• The applicant must submit a completed “Official Application

for Scholarship”AMOUNT OF SCHOLARSHIP GRANT:- $2,000.00 may be applied toward tuition and other coursecharges including books and lab fees.

- Yearly increments are limited to $1,000.00 for two years.(Course must be completed within 3 years from the date of theaward.)- Cost of courses will be paid to the individual upon presenta-tion of passing grades and tuition bills.SELECTION COMMITTEE:- Candidates shall be selected from those applicants that meetall general requirements, and including, goodcharacter, dedication to the fire service, and financial need.COLLEGES:- The candidate must attend an accredited college presentingan “Associate Degree in Fire Technology”.

Scholarship Committee: Backy Mole, Chairman - 440-308-6192


“Charles J. Getz” Firefighter Scholarship

TO: SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE:In applying for consideration, I am aware that any grant will be applied against my tuition, books,and other course costs. In the event my course does not cost the full amount of the grant, I am onlyeligible for the amount of the tuition and I have no claim against the Ohio State Firefighters’Association, the donor, or the college for the remainder. I agree that no scholarship money will beused for travel expenses, meals, child care or any other expenses not connected with the tuition anda maximum of only $1,000.00 of the awarded scholarship may be used for each school year. I agreethat no scholarship monies may be used for any schooling prior to the awarding of this scholarshipor for any EMS/Paramedic training. I am aware that I have up to three years to make use of theawarded scholarship. Any unused money after the three year period will revert back to theFirefighters Scholarship Fund. I declare that all statements herein are complete and correct to thebest of my knowledge, and that if any scholarship monies not used for the purpose of which it wasintended, it will be returned to the Ohio State Firefighters’ Association. Any deviation or non submis-sion from the required application information may be subject to applications removal from consid-eration for scholarship.

Applicants Signature _______________________________________________________ Dated ________________

IT IS MANDATORY THAT THE FIRE CHIEF SIGN THIS APPLICATION BELOW!ENDORSEMENT OF THE FIRE CHIEF OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, REGARDING SAID COURSERECOMMENDED FOR COURSE __________ NOT RECOMMENDED __________DETAILED REASONS

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF FIRE CHIEF _________________________________________ DATED _____________________

SPECIAL NOTES, CONDITIONS, AND INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING SCHOLARSHIP NOTE: If application is approved, the following documents must be submitted to the scholarship committeefor reimbursement.1. Evidence of Satisfactory completion of course.2. Copy of paid tuition bill (from College)3. A copy of bill for books and/or other course charges4. A summary report regarding course substance, quality of instruction and copy of grades.

INSTRUCTIONS: Fill out this form, complete with required signatures. Include a resume of your fire service background, career and education. Include the reasons for wanting the course mentioned and this scholarship. Attach all sheets to this form and forward to the SelectionCommittee of Scholarships.Chairman Becky Mole, 35253 Grafton Eastern Road, Grafton, Ohio 44044, Phone 440-308-6192PLEASE NOTE: Scholarships will only be awarded for college courses providing Academic CollegeCredits. Certificate or “short” courses are not eligible for consideration.

ENTRIES POSTMARKED AFTER MAY 30TH, WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS YEARS SELECTION.ASSESSMENT AND RECOMMENDATION BY THE COMMITTEE ON SCHOLARSHIPS:

Recommended ____________ Amount Awarded ____________ Not Recommended ____________

REASONS:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

CHAIRMAN’S SIGNATURE _____________________________________________ DATED ___________________


Paramedic Scholarship

Paramedic ScholarshipApplication Form - Please type or print!

NAME _________________________________________________ AGE _______ S.S. # _____________________

HOME ADDRESS ______________________________________________ HOME PHONE _________________

_____________________________________________________________________ SINGLE ____ MARRIED ____

NUMBER OF DEPENDENTS_________OWN/RENT HOME__________LIVE WITH PARENTS__________

OCCUPATION _________________________________________________ ANNUAL INCOME ______________

NAME OF HIGH SCHOOL ______________________________________ YEAR GRADUATED _____________

NAME OF FIRE DEPT. __________________________________________________ RANK _________________

DESCRIBE OTHER FUNDING SOURCES THAT ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU (DEPARTMENT, CITY,

TOWNSHIP ETC.)

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

TYPE OF FIRE DEPT.: PAID ____ VOL ____ CITY ____ VILLAGE ____ TOWNSHIP ____ PRIVATE ____

DATE YOU ENTERED FIRE SERVICE _______________ TOTAL YEARS OF FIRE SERVICE ___________

LIST OTHER FIRE SERVICE AFFILIATIONS:

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

LIST ANY OTHER FIRE SERVICE COLLEGE DEGREES OR ACCREDITATION:

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________

INSTITUTION AND COURSE INFORMATION

INSTITUTION NAME

________________________________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS _______________________________________________________ PHONE # _____________________

COURSE TITLE ________________________________________________ COURSE # _____________________

COURSE BEGINS _______________ ENDS _______________ FULL TUITION COST ____________________

* Recipient of scholarship may be subject to receive a 1099.Continued on next page

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:• The applicant must be a member of a Fire Department

belonging to the Ohio State Firefighters’ Association.• The applicant must be recommended by the fire chief.• The applicant must be a high school graduate.• The applicant must be 18 years of age.• The applicant must show interest in the EMS field.• The applicant must write a resume of their Fire and/or EMS

background and future goals.• The applicant must submit a completed “Official Application

for Scholarship” and supporting documents.

AMOUNT OF SCHOLARSHIP GRANT:- $2,000.00 may be applied toward tuition and other coursecharges including books and lab fees.- Course must be completed within 3 years from the date of theaward.- Cost of courses will be paid to the individual upon successfulcompletion of the course.SELECTION COMMITTEE:- Candidates shall be selected from those applicants that meetall general requirements, and including, good character, dedication to the Fire or EMS Service, and financial need.

Scholarship CommitteeBecky Mole, Chairman


Paramedic Scholarship

TO: SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE:In applying for consideration, I am aware that any grant will be applied against my tuition, books,and other course costs. In the event my course does not cost the full amount of the grant, I am onlyeligible for the amount of the tuition and I have no claim against the Ohio State Firefighters’Association for the remainder. I agree that no scholarship money will be used for travel expenses,meals, child care or any other expenses not connected with the paramedic tuition. I agree that noscholarship monies may be used for any schooling prior to the awarding of this scholarship. I amaware that I have up to two years to make use of the awarded scholarship. Any unused money afterthe three year period will revert back to the Paramedic Scholarship Fund. I declare that all state-ments herein are complete and correct to the best of my knowledge, and that if any scholarshipmonies not used for the purpose of which it was intended, it will be returned to the Ohio StateFirefighters’ Association. Any deviation or non submission from the required application informationmay be subject to applications removal for consideration for scholarship.

Applicant’s Signature ____________________________________________________ Dated __________________

IT IS MANDATORY THAT THE FIRE CHIEF SIGN THIS APPLICATION BELOW!ENDORSEMENT OF THE FIRE CHIEF OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, REGARDING SAID COURSE

RECOMMENDED FOR COURSE __________ NOT RECOMMENDED __________

DETAILED REASONS:

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF FIRE CHIEF ___________________________________________ DATED ___________________

SPECIAL NOTES, CONDITION, AND INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING SCHOLARSHIPNOTE: If application is approved, the following documents must be submitted to the scholarshipcommittee for reimbursement.1. Evidence of Satisfactory completion of course.2. Copy of paid tuition bill.3. A copy of bill for books and/or other course charges4. A summary report regarding course substance, quality of instruction and copy of grades.

INSTRUCTIONS: Fill out this form, complete with required signatures. Write a resume of your fireand EMS service background, career and your education. Include the reasons for wanting the coursementioned and this scholarship. Attach all sheets to this form and forward to the SelectionCommittee of Scholarships.Chairman Becky Mole, 35253 Grafton Eastern Road, Grafton, Ohio 44044, Phone 440-308-6192

ENTRIES POSTMARKED AFTER MAY 30TH, WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS YEARS SELECTION.ASSESSMENT AND RECOMMENDATION BY THE COMMITTEE ON SCHOLARSHIPS:

Recommended ____________ Amount Awarded ____________ Not Recommended ____________

REASONS:

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

CHAIRMAN'S SIGNATURE _____________________________________________ DATED ___________________


OHIO STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION, INC.Outstanding Fire Service Award Nomination Form

Qualifications Required: Minimum of 25 years of Service Fire Department must be a current OSFA Member

Date:______________________

I wish to nominate:_________________________________________________________________________________

of the_____________________________________________________________________________ Fire Department

Dept. address: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Nominee is Living: __________ Active: __________ Retired: __________ Deceased: __________

Fire Service Occupation or Rank: ______________________________________ Years of Service: ____________

Please list and explain the major contributions the nominee has made to the fire department.

Use second sheet if needed.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Member of Organization making nomination:________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________ Signed: ____________________________________________________

Date Award to be presented:_____________________

Please return completed form to: Becky Mole35253 Grafton Eastern Road • Grafton, Ohio 44044

If any questions please call: 440-308-6192

HistoryThe Ohio State Firefighter’s Association (OSFA) wasorganized in 1938 in Mt. Vernon, Ohio by firefighterswho had the interest and the welfare of all firefighters inthe State of Ohio in mind. The OSFA has benefited morefirefighters throughout the State of Ohio over the yearsthan any other group. The association membershipvoted, in August of 1985, to change the name of theassociation to the Ohio State Firefighters’ Associationdue to the ever increasing number of women joining thefire service, EMS and our Association.

Mission StatementThe Ohio State Firefighters’ Association was organized for:

• The general improvement of the fire service throughoutthe State of Ohio; in order to form a statewide organi-zation, to establish harmony and to ensure prosperityand success.

• To provide group benefits, obtain and compile statisticsto provide information to the fire service.

• To assist in affording protection to disabled firefighters,and those dependent upon them, through legislativeenactment.

• To create and maintain brotherly and fraternal fellow-ship among firefighters of the State of Ohio, througheducational seminars and programs.

Representation on Boards and CommitteesRecognized as one of the leaders of Ohio’s Fire Service,the OSFA represents its membership by serving on sev-eral Boards and Committees, which has an impact ondecisions which affect Ohio’s fire service, they are:

• Three members on the Ohio EMS Board• Three members on the Fire Sub-committee to the EMS

Board• Member of the Educational Task Force• Member Trauma Advisory Group• Co-founder and member of the Ohio Fire Alliance• Member of the Ohio Rural Fire Council• Member Ohio Rescue Task Force• Member Emergency Response Commission• Member Public-Safety Communications Task Force• Member EMS Privatization Task Force• Ohio’s delegate to the National Volunteer Fire Council• The Board of Visitors at the National Fire Academy• The Joint Council of Fire Service Associations• NFPA Committees• The Federation of World Volunteer Firefighters

Association• Provides representation at the Ohio Fire Commission

meetings• Sends a delegation each year to the National Fire &

Emergency Services Caucus in Washington, D.C.• Legislation-over 275 laws have been enacted, changed,

or revised with assistance of the OSFA.

Membership DuesThe dues in the Ohio State Firefighters’ Association are payable to the Secretary/Treasurer. Beginning in2006, dues are $75.00 per year for each organized fire department or fire brigade. A five-year department membership is available for $325. Individual member-ships are available for $25.00. The yearly rate forDealer/Corporate/Equipment Sales Groups is $75.00.

Membership Type ____ Department ____ Individual ____ Dealer/Corporate/Equipment Sales

___________________________________________________________________________________________________Name___________________________________________________________________________________________________Chief’s Name Dept Fax Dept Phone___________________________________________________________________________________________________Address___________________________________________________________________________________________________Mailing Address (If different than street address)___________________________________________________________________________________________________City County Zip___________________________________________________________________________________________________Email Address Number of Members

For more information contact the OSFA at our web site or fill out the information above and mail it to the OSFA at:

Ohio State Firefighters’ AssociationP.O. Box 400 • Mogadore, OH 44260 • (330) 388-4307


Ohio State Firefighters’ AssociationMembership can be your voice helping to change Ohio’s fire service

Ohio State Firefighters’ Association Membership form

• Membership• Legal Defense

Trust Fund• Insurance Plan• Group Life Insurance• Charles J. Getz

Scholarship• Paramedic School

Scholarships• Web Page

• Firefighter of the Year Award

• Statewide RadioLicensing

• Ohio FirefighterPublication

• Youth Academy• Ohio Fire Alliance• Annual Conference• Line of Duty Death


Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Department:_______________________________________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Department Email Address: ________________________________________________________________________

Department Phone:______________________________________

Fill out the information above and mail it to the OSFA at:

Ohio State Firefighters’ AssociationP.O. Box 400, Mogadore, OH 44260, (330) 388-4307

CHANGE OF ADDRESS?Let us know – so we can keep you informed!

BRENNANINDUSTRIES

6701 COCHRAN ROADSOLON OH 44139(440) 248-7088


DOUBLE FATAL RESPONDING FIRE APPARATUS CRASH WILL GO TO TRIAL

Friday, December 7, 2012 THIS STORY IS FOREVERY Fire/EMS officer and driver*. The OhioSupreme Court ruled yesterday that a trial courtshould reconsider whether the city of Massillon wasliable in the 2008 fire apparatus crash that killedRonald E. Anderson, 72, and his 4-year-old step-grandson, Javarre J. Tate.

On May 6, 2008, the MFD Firefighters wereresponding to a report of a vehicle fire. The firstapparatus responded and proceeded through theintersection with no issue. The 2nd apparatus, E-211, also traveling with its lights and sirens on,struck Anderson’s vehicle as he passed through theintersection killing him and his grandson. Attorneysfor Cynthia Anderson, Ronald Anderson’s widow,have argued that Firefighter Susan Toles (who wasrelated to Anderson) was driving the apparatus atexcessive and unsafe speeds given the neighborhoodand type of emergency to which they were respond-ing. Engine 211 was later found to be operating atspeeds between 49 mph and 52 mph at the point ofimpact.

The city has argued that the accident was unavoid-able because Anderson (who was hard of hearing)failed to yield to the oncoming fire truck at theintersection, which has a four-way stop and a flash-ing red light-but had stopped for the first appara-tus, and then proceeded through the intersection,being struck by the 2nd.

Common Pleas Judge Charles Brown initially ruledthe city was immune from liability because therewas no evidence that Toles or her supervisor, Capt.Rick Annen, acted with “a malicious purpose, in badfaith or in a wanton or reckless manner.”

The case relates to two state statutes. One lawaffords political subdivisions a defense from liabilityif a fire truck is responding to an emergency, aslong as the operation of the vehicle does not consti-tute willful or wanton misconduct. The other statuteprovides immunity to public employees as long astheir actions are not considered wanton or reckless.

HOWEVER, the Fifth District reversed Brown’s deci-sion, stating that “reasonable minds” could find thefirefighters’ actions reckless because of the rate ofspeed at which the truck was traveling and theobstructions that interfered with a clear view of theintersection. The state Supreme Court wrote in its

18-page opinion that the standards of the termswillful, wanton and reckless are “different and dis-tinct degrees of care and are not interchangeable”and remanded the case back to the trial court. �

OHIO FIREFIGHTER THREATENED BY CITIZEN WITH A GUN

Tuesday, January 22, 2013 Dayton firefightershad more than a fire to investigate Tuesday after-noon.

They say they had an unruly man to contend withas they arrived.

Firefighters responded to 622 Salem Avenue shortlyafter 3:00 pm on the report of smoke coming from ahouse there.

They arrived to find the homeowner threateningthem with a gun.

Firefighters decided to call police and wait for offi-cers to arrive.

Police did take the man into custody, as firefightersentered the house.

Firefighters say it was smoke from a fireplace thatalerted a passerby to a possible fire. There was nodamage to the home.

Firefighters will not pursue charges against thehomeowner as they say they never saw an actualgun produced. �

OHIO CRASH VICTIM SUES EX-FIREFIGHTER'S WIFE

Monday, January 21, 2013 Olivia Duty, 22, wasdriving her car north on Ohio 19 in Ottawa Countyon July 16, 2010, when a pickup slammed into hercar at Oak Harbor Southeast Road.

Her boyfriend, Ian Huffman, 24, of Elmore, waskilled on impact.

The driver of the pickup, Timothy Johnson, 43, wascharged criminally in Huffman’s death, and forinjuring Duty. He had been answering an emer-gency call as a volunteer firefighter for PortageTownship Fire District when the crash happened.

More than two years later, after a mistrial and

OHIO FIREFIGHTER NEWS


months of litigation in a civil lawsuit, Johnsonpleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and attemptedvehicular homicide. He was sentenced to ninemonths in jail.

His pickup reached speeds of up to 98 mph onlyseconds before the crash, experts said at the trial.

In October, Duty and Huffman’s parents, Maureenand John Huffman, agreed to a $1.57 million set-tlement in their lawsuit against Johnson. �

FIRE CHIEF "MOBBED" AFTER THE LOSS OF HIS DAUGHTER

Friday, January 4, 2013 The experts say that theheadline grabs the reader - so hopefully this oneworked. It's a tough headline: "Fire Chief MobbedAfter The Loss of His Daughter"--but it's a fact.One of our mutual aid Chiefs is a man named AndyMitten. He is the Chief of Harlan Township Fire &EMS in Warren County, Ohio-a suburb ofCincinnati. And while we don't run alot of callstogether, there are some areas where both ourdepartments are due on runs. So we catchup fromtime to time. Andy grew up in Pennsylvania (StateCollege and Towanda) and followed the footsteps ofhis Dad and Uncle, also Firefighters. Like so manyof you, he LOVES being a Dad, Husband andFirefighter ...and being a Firefighter pretty muchdefines who Andy is. But Andy was "Mobbed" thisweek. Read on.

I have had the real pleasure to have Andy as afriend since the early 90's and he is definitely oneof a kind. A very low key, unassuming man whogets so much done with so little fanfare-he definesliving leadership. He is extremely active and hashelped grow and lead a phenomenal, highlyrespected busy rural volunteer fire and rescue com-pany-as he was a charter member back in 1976. Hewas one of the first ever Ohio EMT's and helped hisdepartment grow from one station with a usedpumper, to a fleet of 15 fire and EMS vehicles in 2stations professionally staffed by 50 volunteers.We've been on some serious runs together, butnone like the one he turned out for in 1991. AsFirefighter and EMT's, turning out and respondingto what ends up being a call for a member of yourfamily, is about as tough as it gets. The worst day.This is about Fire Chief Andy Mitten's worst day.His daughter Dee Dee was killed in a car crash in1991 that he-and his daughter Melissa (then anEMT with the HTFD) both responded to-and arrivedfirst due. When they did, they discovered hisdaughter Dee Dee was the victim. Her life could notbe saved. But through just a few moments he andhis wife had to make a decision later at the hospi-tal, other lives were saved as Dee Dee now helped

others as an organ and tissue donor. Dee Dee's sis-ter, Melissa, was so motivated and impacted, thatshe became a nurse and later started working forLifeCenter Organ Donor Network, http://lifepassi-ton.org following her sisters tragic death. She isnow the Director of Organ Operations, and her sis-ter's donation is what inspired her to start a careerin organ donation.

As time has gone on, Andy has continued his roleas the Fire Chief in Harlan Township, President ofthe Warren County Chiefs, a Risk Manager for theKroger Corporation as well as the Safety Director atKings Island Amusement Park---along with manyother related roles as well as a Dad, husband andfriend, always with his daughter Dee Dee in hisheart and mind. �

SCREAMING AND POTENTIALLY CRAZYWOMAN JUMPS ON FIRE APPARATUS

AND REFUSES TO COME DOWN. NOT EXACTLY "MRS SMITH"

Thursday, January 3, 2013 A 21-year-old Ohiowoman slapped with charges after climbing a firetruck and refusing to come down while drunk onNew Year's Eve. The incident happened shortly after0100 at the Broadway firehouse in Lorain.

According to LFD Firefighters, Miranda Lewis cameto the station intoxicated and screaming for help.When she was let inside the station, she said shewas going to be raped and started running around.She eventually climbed up one of the fire trucksand refused to come down. Police were called, andtried to coax Lewis down, but she refused andclung to a large water nozzle. It took several officersto pry Lewis off of the nozzle and bring her down tosafety. Lewis is charged with disorderly conduct byintoxication and disorderly conduct persisting. Ifthere had there been a fire emergency during Lewis'incident, response may have been delayed. �

All articles are courtesy of

www.firefighterclosecalls.com

Reproduction of these articles without

express written consent is prohibited.


PET BRANDS

4338 JANITROL ROADCOLUMBUS OH 43228

(614) 275-3647



R.F. COOkMANUFACTURING

COMPANy

4585 ALLEN ROADSTOW OH 44224(330) 923-9797

PARkNATIONAL

BANk

140 EAST TOWNSTREET, #1010

COLUMBUS OH 43215(614) 228-0063

Our goal is to inform and educate every Ohio State

Firefighter by publishing one of the most informative professional magazines

available.

SEND ARTICLES AND EMAIL PHOTOS TO: [email protected]

OR BY MAIL TO:OSFA Magazine • c/o RBA, Inc.

487 College Street • Wadsworth, OH 44281

OHIOFirefighterFirefighter


ursuline.edu

ADVANCED FUELSySTEMS

841 ALTON AVENUECOLUMBUS OH 45219

(614) 252-0881


WOLFF BRORTHERSSUPPLy, INC.

1200 kELLy AVENUEAkRON OH 44306

(330) 773-0200

SATELLITE GEARCOMPANy

5135 RICHMOND ROADBEDFORD HTS. OH 44146

(216) 514-8668

CHEM-1 BLENDINGCOMPANy

19220 MILES ROADWARRENSVILLE HTS.

OH 44128(216) 475-7443


SPONSORSApollo Vending

351 Lowery Court, #1Groveport OH 43125

(614) 836-7615

Crystallyn Hair Studio5430 Cleveland AvenueMinerva Park OH 43231

(614) 794-2952

Arrabiata's6169 Mayfield Road

Mayfield Hts. OH 44124(440) 442-2600

Nimrod Enterprises480 Belle Road

Bedford OH 44146(440) 786-8067

Identity Systems1324 Stimmel Road

Columbus OH 43223(614) 481-0741

The Media Cellar38123 West Spaulding Street

Willoughby OH 44094(440) 918-1301

C & M Auto Repair22250 Lakeland Blvd.

Euclid OH 44132(216) 731-8939

El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant2195 Riverside Road

Upper Arlington OH 43221(614) 486-4547

Dynamic Tool & Mold12126 York Road

North Royalton OH 44133(440) 237-8665

Structural Building Services, Inc.7045 Krick Road

Walton Hills OH 44146(440) 439-2872

Thirst & Ten Sports Grille15299 Sheldon Road

Middleburg Hts. OH 44130(216) 362-8000

Tanglewood Hairdressers8460 East Washington Street

Chagrin Falls OH 44023(440) 543-9868

Blagoi's International Car Service, Inc.

3816 East Livingston AvenueColumbus OH 43227

(614) 235-1811

WADSWORTH LICENSE BUREAU123 BROAD STREET, #AWADSWORTH OH 44281

(330) 336-4485

OUTDOOR DELIGHT LANDSCAPING10155 BROADVIEW ROAD, #10BROADVIEW HTS. OH 44147

(440) 833-5066

BEREA'S STyLE STUDIO & SPA34 BEECH ROADBEREA OH 44017(440) 234-6750

DESCO EqUIPMENT COMPANy1903 CASE PARkWAyTWINSBURG OH 44087

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CAPITOL CITy TRAILERS3960 GROVEPORT ROAD

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PRESTIGE DELIVERy SySTEMS4279 DIRECTORS BLVDGROVEPORT OH 44125

(614) 836-8980

CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTALCONSULTANTS

5910 HARPER ROAD, #106SOLON OH 44139(440) 287-0157

Visit us on the web:

ohiofirefighters.org


ADVERTISING INDEX (alphabetical listing)Advanced Fuel Systems 001390 ....................................39

All-American Fire Equipment, Inc. 001371 ....................21

Amendola Engineering, Inc. 001422 ................................7

Apollo Vending 001363 ..................................................41

Arrabiata's 001336 ........................................................41

Auto Additions 001372 ..................................................11

Berea's Style Studio & Spa 001406................................41

Blagoi's International Car Service, Inc. 001413 ............41

Breathing Air Systems 001425 ......................................12

Brennan Industries 001387 ..........................................33

Butler Tech ................................................................21

C & M Auto Repair 001393............................................41

Capitol City Trailers 001365 ..........................................41

Chem-1 Blending Company 001401 ..............................40

Civil & Environmental Consultants 001383 ..................41

Convenient Food Mart 001417 ......................................42

Crystallyn Hair Studio 001364 ......................................41

Desco Equipment Company 001388 ..............................41

Dynamic Tool & Mold 001404........................................41

El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant 001374 ........................41

Elyria License Bureau 001382 ........................................9

Giant Eagle - Springfield Twp. 001403 ..........................39

Giant Eagle - Stow 001376 ............................................38

Identity Systems 001373................................................41

Immke Buick 001379 ......................................................7

Kelly & Visconsi Associates 001377 ..............................40

Lakeshore Community Credit Union 001367 ................36

Lubrizol, Inc. 001412 ....................................................24

Marathon Oil Company 001411 ....................................33

Melt Bar & Grilled 001421 ............................................39

Memphis Entertainment Group 001378 ........................37

Moore Well Services, Inc. 001419 ..................................37

Neal J. Postel, DDS 001386 ..........................................40

Nimrod Enterprises 001380 ..........................................41

Northern Ohio Automotive Transmission 001400..........40

Outdoor Delight Landscaping 001397............................41

Park National Bank 001370 ..........................................38

Pet Brands 001398 ........................................................36

Pet Tastic Grooming & Supplies 001394........................36

Prestige Delivery Systems 001405..................................41

Pro Model & Talent 001366............................................42

ProScan Imaging 001303 ..............................................39

Pupcuts Grooming Salon 001408 ..................................39

Puroclean 001375 ..........................................................12

R.F. Cook Manufacturing Co. 001423............................38

Roten Roofing & Gutters 001396 ..................................37

Ruese Insurance 001344 ..............................................36

Safeguard Properties 001369 ..........................................9

Satellite Gear Company 001391 ....................................40

Shaker Auto Salvage, Towing & Service 001414 ..............8

Structural Building Services, Inc. 001402......................41

Sutphen Corporation 001385 ........................................23

Tanglewood Hairdressers 001409 ..................................41

The Goddard School 001395..........................................39

The Jeweler's Shop 001415............................................40

The Media Cellar 001389 ..............................................41

Thirst & Ten Sports Grille 001392 ................................41

United Truck & Trailer Repair 001335 ..........................42

Ursuline College 001424 ................................................39

Wadsworth License Bureau 001416 ..............................41

Weston Solutions 001420 ..............................................40

Wolff Brorthers Supply, Inc. 001368 ..............................40

XIM Products 001418 ....................................................39

Pro Model & Talent3296 West Market Street

Akron OH 44333(330) 867-4125

United Truck & Trailer Repair22801 Aurora Road, #6ABedford Hts. OH 44146

(216) 518-3387

Convenient Food Mart1021 East Broad Street

Elyria OH 44035(440) 365-7110

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Our goal is to inform and educate every Ohio State Firefighter by publishingone of the most informative professional magazines available.

To make all this happen, we ask for your input and participation in the development ofour content articles. If you know of a close call experience in your unit, and would care to tell the professional community, we would like to hear from you. Please include anycaptioned photos along with your story. You may send your experience and photos to us as email, or mailed on CD. We would like to hear about your department profile. Photosof your equipment, and any relevant experiences you would like to share.

SEND ARTICLES AND EMAIL PHOTOS TO: [email protected]

OR BY MAIL TO:OSFA Magazine • c/o RBA, Inc.

487 College Street • Wadsworth, OH 44281

Documents

02-2013 February.pdf