the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

Station GossipBy Sheryl Drost

Chief Shoevlin still has some 2014 Calendars left. Stop in at Station #3 at 13974 Willowbrook Rd.

Firef ghters fought four f res in near zero or below zero temperatures this last month. And that -45 wind chill day that everyone else got to stay home, they responded to 18 medical and rescue calls. HRFD Tough!

Conratulations to Firef gter Adam Cox. Adam graduated in December from NIU with a Bachelors in Biological Science and a minor in Chemisty.

2013 Fire Kids Christmas Party was a big hit with Pickles the Clown and, of course, SANTA!

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Station FunniesBy Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com

January 2014 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

Fighting Fires in Freezing Temperatures

pages 5 - 7

Uhm. . .

Now there are two things DC John Bergeron’s granddaughter Jazz could be thinking: Wow, I can see myself in the tire or she could be like Photog Marcia with “Nice Wheels!”

Community CPR Class

Health SaverCPR/AED Class

Sat. Feb. 22, 2014HRFD Fire Station #3

13974 Willowbrook Rd. RoscoeCall 815-623-7867

Birthdays

January5th Matt Bush David Leslie10th Chad Miller17th John Presley ‘50th’22nd Everett Peterson25th Jerry Lund26th Reety Radke31st Mark Soppe

February10th Rob Gonia15th Scott Jensen24th Sean Laurent

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

Another year has passed and a new one has begun that will be f lled with new challenges and rewards. I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season. If you were like me, there was plenty of food, family , more food, friends and even more food to go around. Now it’ s time to fast and exercise.

We had another great Christmas Drive where we delivered to 22 families. It is with sincere gratitude and thanks to all that were able to help in any way by donating, shopping, wrapping or delivering these packs of joy . What a treat to see the faces on these individuals as a f re truck made a special delivery to their homes. I would like to think that we all helped to make the holiday season a bit brighter in someone’s life.

This past month has been a busy one. We closed out 2013 with a couple structure f res and rang in the new year of 2014 with a couple as well. I am pleased to say though that none were caused by holiday decorations. It was another successful “Keep the Wreath Red” campaign. We took delivery of a new ambulance this month also.

We are fully entrenched in the winter season now so stay warm and be safe but remember each day that passes we are that much closer to spring. After experiencing these recent temperatures the days of spring can’ t come quick enough for me. Is that a sign of something?

We f nished the calendar year of 2013 with 2666 calls; an increase of 57 calls from 2012. That is an average of a little over 7 calls a day. As our district continues to grow, so will the needs for our services. I assure you that we will continue to bring our communities the commitment of excellence, integrity and caring they have come to expect, and more importantly , deserve. As history has shown, our performance of emergency f re, medical and rescue services is second to none. I remain committed to the continued growth and success of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District.

As we enter 2014, my visions are many . The main one I will not lose focus of, is that we continue to build on our foundation. This continues to be possible because of the dedication and commitment of the trustees, off cers, f ref ghters, paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, chaplains, inspectors, photographers, mechanics and support staff. They ARE the people who make it happen. Thank you to all of them for making us WHO WE ARE. I am honored to be able to represent all of you at various functions that I attend.

If you have any questions about anything regarding your f re department, please don’ t hesitate to call me or stop by . During construction my of f ce has been relocated to Station 3 which is on Willowbrook Road. Don’t forget to friend us on Facebook and always check us out on our website. www.harlemroscoefi re.com.

HRFD Christmas DrivePhotos by Marcia Soppe, Sheryl Drost & Tammy Shoevlin

Firef ghters played Santa to 22 families with a total of 59 children this year. Lists were rounded up from schools in the f re district of families that might need a little help this year.

Firef ghters then collected donations from the community with special Thank you’ s to The Roscoe Chamber , Farm & Fleet, Whiff etree, Top Die, Holsum and Scott Johnson for their contributions toward the success of our drive.

Then it was time to shop and wrap. A turkey with all the f xings as well as the donated non perishables were also sorted into bins for each family. On Dec. 21 Firef ghters headed out in the f re trucks to deliver bags of presents and the bins of food to each family.

Chief Shoevlin and Firefi ghter Greg Wernick check a bin of toys (that was donated by Farm & Fleet) as they shop for presents for one of the kids on the list.

Ron Seeley and Tammy Shoevlin help wrap the mountain of gifts.

Firefi ghters pose for a picture before heading out to deliver the bags of presents and bins of food to the 22 families.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

John Presley - 50thJanuary 17th

The Firehouse Scene The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Prot. Dist.

Editor-in-Chief - Don ShoevlinEditor & Layout - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month @ www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Email submissions to Sheryl: hrfdsdrost@gmail.com

Total Calls for 2013

2666!

Firef ghter Joe Quast and wife Jane show of f their newest grandbaby . Son Joe Jr . and his wife Maria became f rst-time parents to Kinley Elizabeth Quast on 12/19/13. She measured in at 5lbs. 14oz. and 18.5 in long. Congratulations to all, she is adorable!

New Ambulance

Our new ambulance arrived this month and replaced the old Ford C-52. The new ambulance is a Ford 2014 F450 chassis. It is 3ft. longer than our other ambulances; thus giving EMTs more room in the box. It is also has air ride and 4-wheel drive.

EMS CornerBy BC Jay AlmsCold-Weather Health Emergencies

Serious health problems can result from prolonged exposure to the cold. The most common cold-related problems are hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia - When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’ s stored energy. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally

low body temperature. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because a person may not know it is happening and won’ t be able to do anything about it. Hypothermia is most likely at very cold temperatures, but it can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.

Victims of hypothermia are often (1) elderly people with inadequate food, clothing, or heating; (2) babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; (3) people who remain outdoors for long periods—the homeless, hikers, hunters, etc., and (4) people who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.

Recognizing Hypothermia - Warnings signs of hypothermia: Adults: • shivering, exhaustion

• confusion, fumbling hands• memory loss, slurred speech• drowsiness

Infants: • bright red, cold skin• very low energy

What to DoIf you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately. If medical care is not available, begin warming the person, as follows:

• Get the victim into a warm room or shelter.• If the victim has on any wet clothing, remove it.• Warm the center of the body f rst—chest, neck, head, and groin—using an electric blanket, if available or towels or blankets warmed in the dryer . Or use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing or towels.• Warm beverages can help increase the body temperature, but do not give alcoholic beverages. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious person.• After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck. • Get medical attention as soon as possible.

A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. In this case, handle the victim gently , and get emer gency assistance immediately . Even if the victim appears dead, CPR should be provided. CPR should continue while the victim is being warmed, until the victim responds or medical aid becomes available. In some cases, hypothermia victims who appear to be dead can be successfully resuscitated.

Frostbite - is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in af fected areas. It most often af fects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, f ngers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can

lead to amputation. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.

Recognizing FrostbiteAt the f rst signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

• a white or grayish-yellow skin area• skin that feels unusually f rm or waxy • numbness

A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.

What to DoIf you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, f rst determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously . Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance. If (1) there is frostbite but no sign of hypothermia and (2) immediate medical care is not available, proceed as follows: • Get into a warm room as soon as possible.

• Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes—this increases the damage.• Immerse the affected area in warm—not hot—water (the temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body).• Or, warm the affected area using body heat. For example, the heat of an armpit can be used to warm frostbitten f ngers.• Do not rub the frostbitten area with snow or massage it at all. This can cause more damage.• Don’t use a heating pad, heat lamp, or the heat of a stove, f replace, or radiator for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned.

These procedures are not substitutes for proper medical care. Hypothermia is a medical emer gency and frostbite should be evaluated by a health care provider . It is a good idea to take a f rst aid and emergency resuscitation (CPR) course to prepare for cold weather health problems. Knowing what to do is an important part of protecting your health and the health of others. Taking preventive action is your best defense against having to deal with extreme cold weather conditions. By preparing your home and car in advance for winter emer gencies, and by observing safety precautions during times of extremely cold weather , you can reduce the risk of weather-related health problems.

“At HRFD we will ensure you and your family members are protected from the elements whether its the cold weather or some form of precipitation. We will prepare our cot to wrap you in warmth until we can reach the ambulance and cover your head and face when it’s raining. We feel your treatment starts when we greet you in your home or pick you up in a local business.

We know when you call us for a medical emergency, you’re already having a bad day. I hope your experience with the fi refi ghters/medics here at HRFD will be comforting. We want you to be re-assured that you are receiving the best of care from highly trained paramedics and EMTs.

We take pride in well maintained vehicles and equipment. We hope that our Pride shows!” Battalion Chief Jay Alms.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

By Chief Shoevlin

We have now relocated the dispatchers from their temporary room at Station #1 to the new Communications Room complete with a restroom next door. The new Operations Room is also in service. This is a consolidated area of the southwest corner of the new addition. It is a sure sign were nearing the conclusion.

The building has really begun to take on a f nished look on the interior. Painting, tile, epoxy f ooring and carpeting are being done, along with the installation of the last few windows. The mechanical systems are being completed with appliances and f xtures getting installed.

We continue on schedule and have now been given a projection date of 1/31/14 for administration to begin occupying the new area. This also includes the living area for the f ref ghters. This is a projection date and the f rst one we have received. All of us are growing with anticipation that we meet this date.

Response continues to go smoothly and in a timely manner . My hope is that my next update will have us in our newly remodeled home with only minor projects left for total completion. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Dispatcher Jerry Lund had the honor of dispatching for the fi rst time in the new Communication Room on Jan. 3.

Firefi ghters are also now fi lling out reports in the new Operations Room.

The appliances are being installed in the kitchen area.

The doors on the left are the new sleeping quarters.

The new backup generator is installed and ready to go if the need arises.

All the tiling is getting done.

BUGLE ALARMMonthly article written by a Harlem-Roscoe Fire Offi cer.

Firefi ghting and Cancer Have you thought about it?

By: Lt. Jerry McCormick We all know that f ref ghting is a dangerous job and we understand the risks associated with the job. For example, toxic atmospheres, slips and falls, and apparatus crashes, just to name a few. But what about the toxic smoke we have all had the displeasure of breathing because say the wind changed direction, we were outside the structure but did not have our mask on or we were operating and still got some smoke. What about the “good ole days” of being tough and taking some smoke to prove yourself or watching the old guys and all the smoke they could eat without wearing an SCBA.

Over the last few years there have been some alarming reports coming out about the smoke that we are getting into. Fire f ghter cancer was for a long time not linked to the atmospheres we were getting into. They are now linking f ref ghting and cancers together and it is alarming! There is a report, “Taking action against cancer in the f re service”, that was released in April of 2013. I have read this report and it humbled me like no other article I have read in my life. This article says f ref ghters are 2.2 times more likely to develop testicular cancer as the general population. We have a 400% increase of absorption for every f ve degree increase of skin temperature. These are just two of the numbers that are in this article.

Let’s think about that temperature increase of our skin temperature for just a minute. How many of you sweat in your gear, even if not actively f ghting f re, but you are doing other f re ground activities. Now you go inside the f re building where it is warm or even hot and begin to do more work. Now you are sweating a lot and your skin temperature is escalating. And, maybe you haven’ t cleaned your gear from the last f re. Now, all those contaminants are being absorbed into your system through your skin.

There is an article in the November 2013 issue of Fire Rescue Magazine that talks in short about some key points of the article named about. These key points are actions each and every one of us can take that will reduce the exposure to chemicals that cause cancer. These chemicals are found in the smoke at f res, especially the overhaul stages of a f re. Every one of us should adhere to these actions and hold each other accountable:

Use SCBA from initial attack to f nish of overhaul. Even if you are outside the structure but could get smoke due to wind changes or other changes in conditions.Do gross f eld decon of your gearUse baby wipes to remove as much soot as possible from your head, neck, face, jaw, throat, under arms and hands as soon as possible after the f re, even if still on scene.Change your clothes and wash them as soon as you are back at the station. Shower thoroughly after the f re.Clean your PPE, gloves, Nomex hood, helmet, and helmet liner after every f re.

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Do not take contaminated clothes or PPE home or store them in your car.Decon the apparatus inside the crew cab area after the f re.Keep PPE out of the living and sleeping quarters.

These are just some of the actions we should be doing to lessen the exposure to the cancer causing contaminants. How many of us have stayed in sweaty clothes after a f re just to f nish out our shift? Have you laid down in your bed to nap with those contaminated clothes still on, then slept in those same sheets later on that night with no pants on? Have you put dirty gear inside an apparatus, maybe in a seat, and then sat in that same seat with your civilian or duty clothes on. And then you sat in your car and drove home, sat in your chair or couch at home, all the while transporting contaminants all over the place and exposing the ones we love the most. Do you launder your contaminated clothes with other laundry at home?

A lot of us grew up from the old days of having “dirty gear” and that meant you did something at a f re. These days are over . We need to clean our gear after every f re.

When was the last time you checked yourself physically for any outward signs of cancer? There are ways to do this and what to look for . I ur ge everyone if you don’ t know what the signs of cancer might be or where to look, call you doctor or ask them the next time you have a check-up. Speaking of check-ups, when was the last time you had a yearly physical? How about a stress test or an ECG done? You might ask why I ask about these things. They are all related and if done, they just may f nd something early on before it becomes a problem.

I sincerely hope you read the article or some of the other articles that are out these on f ref ghter cancer. You can go to any of the listed sites below and f nd information on f ref ghter cancer. I only hope to open some eyes and to help all of you go home to your loved ones. The more we watch out for one another , the better of we will be. And by doing the things outlined above, we may just save one of our own, and to me, that will be more than worth the extra work.

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The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.com

12/07/13 Edgemere Terr. 12/16/13 Love Rd.

12/08/13 Elevator Rd. 12/20/13 - 4638 Rockton Rd. 12/20/13 - 4781 Rockton Rd.

12/31/13 Hwy 251 & Bridge St. 01/04/14 Hwy 251

12/08/13 Roscoe Rd & Meadowsweet Rd. 12/27/13 Hwy 251 01/04/14 I-90 1/05/14 Elevator Rd. & 251

Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost, Marcia Soppe & Chief Shoevlin

12/15/13 Forest Hills Rd. 12/16/13 I-90 01/04/14 Southdown Ln

As of Jan. 7,

10 left

John predicts..... 23 snowfalls . . .

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5 www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Your Source for SAFETY InformationNFPA Public Education Division 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169 www.nfpa.org/education

FACTHalf of home heating fires are reported during the months

of December, January,and February.

Heating Equipment SmartsInstall wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the riskof CO poisoning. Ifyou smell gas inyour gas heater, dodo not light theappliance. Leave thehome immediatelyand call your local firedepartment or gas company.

HeatingHeatingSafety

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening.

Safety

Firefi ghters Save HousePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Firef ghters were dispatched to a house f re on Whispering Wind Dr. in Roscoe at 5:38am on Dec. 18 for a working house f re. The temperature was near zero and the full moon shown overhead. First units in reported that an attached garage was fully involved with f re as well as two vehicles in the driveway. Chief Shoevlins says “The f ref ghters made an aggressive attack on the f re and were able to contain most the f re damage to the garage and vehicles.”

A MABAS box was called for tenders since the area has no hydrants. Rockton Fire and North Boone #3 Fire assisted at the scene with tenders. Smoke detectors had alerted the family and they were safely outside when units arrived. The f re is believed to have started from spontaneous combustion from improperly stored oily rags in a plastic trash can.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

Attic FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Harlem-Roscoe Fire f ghters were dispatched to Asbury Ln. in Machesney Park for an attic f re on Dec. 28. The resident reported f re coming from a bathroom ceiling fan and had the family and pets outside when units arrived.

Firef ghters found f re in the attic and quickly had it extinguished. Overhaul was completed, checking for hot spots. No one was injured and the f re is believed to have started in the ceiling fan in the bathroom.

Chimney Chase FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

Firef ghters were dispatched just before midnight on the f rst day of the new year for a structure f re on Huntsboro Ln. The chimney chase was fully involved with f re when f re units arrived. After a quick knock down of the f re and a good overhaul looking for hot spots, the f ref ghters were able to get the trucks and themselves out of the below zero wind chills, and safely back home.

The twelve people in the home at the time of the f re were safely outside when units arrived, and no one was injured. Firef ghters did a great job at stopping the f re. Chief Shoevlin says, The f re damage was contained to the outside wall and chimney chase with minimal damage to the inside.”

Chimney FirePhoto by Sheryl Drost

As temperatures started heading to all time lows and local roads being shut down for blowing snow, f ref ghters were dispatched to their 4th f re in below zero wind chills within the last month. This time would be a chimney f re on McCurry Rd on Jan. 3. Luckily the f re was contained to the chimney and no one was hurt.

Car Fire Photo by Marcia Soppe

Firef ghters quickly have a f re in an engine extinguished in a car parked in the Walmart parking lot on Dec. 15.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

Attic FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Harlem-Roscoe Fire f ghters were dispatched to Asbury Ln. in Machesney Park for an attic f re on Dec. 28. The resident reported f re coming from a bathroom ceiling fan and had the family and pets outside when units arrived.

Firef ghters found f re in the attic and quickly had it extinguished. Overhaul was completed, checking for hot spots. No one was injured and the f re is believed to have started in the ceiling fan in the bathroom.

Chimney Chase FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

Firef ghters were dispatched just before midnight on the f rst day of the new year for a structure f re on Huntsboro Ln. The chimney chase was fully involved with f re when f re units arrived. After a quick knock down of the f re and a good overhaul looking for hot spots, the f ref ghters were able to get the trucks and themselves out of the below zero wind chills, and safely back home.

The twelve people in the home at the time of the f re were safely outside when units arrived, and no one was injured. Firef ghters did a great job at stopping the f re. Chief Shoevlin says, The f re damage was contained to the outside wall and chimney chase with minimal damage to the inside.”

Chimney FirePhoto by Sheryl Drost

As temperatures started heading to all time lows and local roads being shut down for blowing snow, f ref ghters were dispatched to their 4th f re in below zero wind chills within the last month. This time would be a chimney f re on McCurry Rd on Jan. 3. Luckily the f re was contained to the chimney and no one was hurt.

Car Fire Photo by Marcia Soppe

Firef ghters quickly have a f re in an engine extinguished in a car parked in the Walmart parking lot on Dec. 15.

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5 www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Your Source for SAFETY InformationNFPA Public Education Division 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169 www.nfpa.org/education

FACTHalf of home heating fires are reported during the months

of December, January,and February.

Heating Equipment SmartsInstall wood burning stoves following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Install and maintain CO alarms to avoid the riskof CO poisoning. Ifyou smell gas inyour gas heater, dodo not light theappliance. Leave thehome immediatelyand call your local firedepartment or gas company.

HeatingHeatingSafety

There is something about the winter months and curling up with a good book by the fireplace. But did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths? With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening.

Safety

Firefi ghters Save HousePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Firef ghters were dispatched to a house f re on Whispering Wind Dr. in Roscoe at 5:38am on Dec. 18 for a working house f re. The temperature was near zero and the full moon shown overhead. First units in reported that an attached garage was fully involved with f re as well as two vehicles in the driveway. Chief Shoevlins says “The f ref ghters made an aggressive attack on the f re and were able to contain most the f re damage to the garage and vehicles.”

A MABAS box was called for tenders since the area has no hydrants. Rockton Fire and North Boone #3 Fire assisted at the scene with tenders. Smoke detectors had alerted the family and they were safely outside when units arrived. The f re is believed to have started from spontaneous combustion from improperly stored oily rags in a plastic trash can.

BUGLE ALARMMonthly article written by a Harlem-Roscoe Fire Offi cer.

Firefi ghting and Cancer Have you thought about it?

By: Lt. Jerry McCormick We all know that f ref ghting is a dangerous job and we understand the risks associated with the job. For example, toxic atmospheres, slips and falls, and apparatus crashes, just to name a few. But what about the toxic smoke we have all had the displeasure of breathing because say the wind changed direction, we were outside the structure but did not have our mask on or we were operating and still got some smoke. What about the “good ole days” of being tough and taking some smoke to prove yourself or watching the old guys and all the smoke they could eat without wearing an SCBA.

Over the last few years there have been some alarming reports coming out about the smoke that we are getting into. Fire f ghter cancer was for a long time not linked to the atmospheres we were getting into. They are now linking f ref ghting and cancers together and it is alarming! There is a report, “Taking action against cancer in the f re service”, that was released in April of 2013. I have read this report and it humbled me like no other article I have read in my life. This article says f ref ghters are 2.2 times more likely to develop testicular cancer as the general population. We have a 400% increase of absorption for every f ve degree increase of skin temperature. These are just two of the numbers that are in this article.

Let’s think about that temperature increase of our skin temperature for just a minute. How many of you sweat in your gear, even if not actively f ghting f re, but you are doing other f re ground activities. Now you go inside the f re building where it is warm or even hot and begin to do more work. Now you are sweating a lot and your skin temperature is escalating. And, maybe you haven’ t cleaned your gear from the last f re. Now, all those contaminants are being absorbed into your system through your skin.

There is an article in the November 2013 issue of Fire Rescue Magazine that talks in short about some key points of the article named about. These key points are actions each and every one of us can take that will reduce the exposure to chemicals that cause cancer. These chemicals are found in the smoke at f res, especially the overhaul stages of a f re. Every one of us should adhere to these actions and hold each other accountable:

Use SCBA from initial attack to f nish of overhaul. Even if you are outside the structure but could get smoke due to wind changes or other changes in conditions.Do gross f eld decon of your gearUse baby wipes to remove as much soot as possible from your head, neck, face, jaw, throat, under arms and hands as soon as possible after the f re, even if still on scene.Change your clothes and wash them as soon as you are back at the station. Shower thoroughly after the f re.Clean your PPE, gloves, Nomex hood, helmet, and helmet liner after every f re.

•

••

•

••

Do not take contaminated clothes or PPE home or store them in your car.Decon the apparatus inside the crew cab area after the f re.Keep PPE out of the living and sleeping quarters.

These are just some of the actions we should be doing to lessen the exposure to the cancer causing contaminants. How many of us have stayed in sweaty clothes after a f re just to f nish out our shift? Have you laid down in your bed to nap with those contaminated clothes still on, then slept in those same sheets later on that night with no pants on? Have you put dirty gear inside an apparatus, maybe in a seat, and then sat in that same seat with your civilian or duty clothes on. And then you sat in your car and drove home, sat in your chair or couch at home, all the while transporting contaminants all over the place and exposing the ones we love the most. Do you launder your contaminated clothes with other laundry at home?

A lot of us grew up from the old days of having “dirty gear” and that meant you did something at a f re. These days are over . We need to clean our gear after every f re.

When was the last time you checked yourself physically for any outward signs of cancer? There are ways to do this and what to look for . I ur ge everyone if you don’ t know what the signs of cancer might be or where to look, call you doctor or ask them the next time you have a check-up. Speaking of check-ups, when was the last time you had a yearly physical? How about a stress test or an ECG done? You might ask why I ask about these things. They are all related and if done, they just may f nd something early on before it becomes a problem.

I sincerely hope you read the article or some of the other articles that are out these on f ref ghter cancer. You can go to any of the listed sites below and f nd information on f ref ghter cancer. I only hope to open some eyes and to help all of you go home to your loved ones. The more we watch out for one another , the better of we will be. And by doing the things outlined above, we may just save one of our own, and to me, that will be more than worth the extra work.

•

••

The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.com

12/07/13 Edgemere Terr. 12/16/13 Love Rd.

12/08/13 Elevator Rd. 12/20/13 - 4638 Rockton Rd. 12/20/13 - 4781 Rockton Rd.

12/31/13 Hwy 251 & Bridge St. 01/04/14 Hwy 251

12/08/13 Roscoe Rd & Meadowsweet Rd. 12/27/13 Hwy 251 01/04/14 I-90 1/05/14 Elevator Rd. & 251

Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost, Marcia Soppe & Chief Shoevlin

12/15/13 Forest Hills Rd. 12/16/13 I-90 01/04/14 Southdown Ln

As of Jan. 7,

10 left

John predicts..... 23 snowfalls . . .

EMS CornerBy BC Jay AlmsCold-Weather Health Emergencies

Serious health problems can result from prolonged exposure to the cold. The most common cold-related problems are hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia - When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’ s stored energy. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally

low body temperature. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because a person may not know it is happening and won’ t be able to do anything about it. Hypothermia is most likely at very cold temperatures, but it can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.

Victims of hypothermia are often (1) elderly people with inadequate food, clothing, or heating; (2) babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; (3) people who remain outdoors for long periods—the homeless, hikers, hunters, etc., and (4) people who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.

Recognizing Hypothermia - Warnings signs of hypothermia: Adults: • shivering, exhaustion

• confusion, fumbling hands• memory loss, slurred speech• drowsiness

Infants: • bright red, cold skin• very low energy

What to DoIf you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately. If medical care is not available, begin warming the person, as follows:

• Get the victim into a warm room or shelter.• If the victim has on any wet clothing, remove it.• Warm the center of the body f rst—chest, neck, head, and groin—using an electric blanket, if available or towels or blankets warmed in the dryer . Or use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing or towels.• Warm beverages can help increase the body temperature, but do not give alcoholic beverages. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious person.• After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrapped in a warm blanket, including the head and neck. • Get medical attention as soon as possible.

A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. In this case, handle the victim gently , and get emer gency assistance immediately . Even if the victim appears dead, CPR should be provided. CPR should continue while the victim is being warmed, until the victim responds or medical aid becomes available. In some cases, hypothermia victims who appear to be dead can be successfully resuscitated.

Frostbite - is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in af fected areas. It most often af fects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, f ngers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can

lead to amputation. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.

Recognizing FrostbiteAt the f rst signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

• a white or grayish-yellow skin area• skin that feels unusually f rm or waxy • numbness

A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.

What to DoIf you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, f rst determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously . Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance. If (1) there is frostbite but no sign of hypothermia and (2) immediate medical care is not available, proceed as follows: • Get into a warm room as soon as possible.

• Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes—this increases the damage.• Immerse the affected area in warm—not hot—water (the temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body).• Or, warm the affected area using body heat. For example, the heat of an armpit can be used to warm frostbitten f ngers.• Do not rub the frostbitten area with snow or massage it at all. This can cause more damage.• Don’t use a heating pad, heat lamp, or the heat of a stove, f replace, or radiator for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned.

These procedures are not substitutes for proper medical care. Hypothermia is a medical emer gency and frostbite should be evaluated by a health care provider . It is a good idea to take a f rst aid and emergency resuscitation (CPR) course to prepare for cold weather health problems. Knowing what to do is an important part of protecting your health and the health of others. Taking preventive action is your best defense against having to deal with extreme cold weather conditions. By preparing your home and car in advance for winter emer gencies, and by observing safety precautions during times of extremely cold weather , you can reduce the risk of weather-related health problems.

“At HRFD we will ensure you and your family members are protected from the elements whether its the cold weather or some form of precipitation. We will prepare our cot to wrap you in warmth until we can reach the ambulance and cover your head and face when it’s raining. We feel your treatment starts when we greet you in your home or pick you up in a local business.

We know when you call us for a medical emergency, you’re already having a bad day. I hope your experience with the fi refi ghters/medics here at HRFD will be comforting. We want you to be re-assured that you are receiving the best of care from highly trained paramedics and EMTs.

We take pride in well maintained vehicles and equipment. We hope that our Pride shows!” Battalion Chief Jay Alms.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

By Chief Shoevlin

We have now relocated the dispatchers from their temporary room at Station #1 to the new Communications Room complete with a restroom next door. The new Operations Room is also in service. This is a consolidated area of the southwest corner of the new addition. It is a sure sign were nearing the conclusion.

The building has really begun to take on a f nished look on the interior. Painting, tile, epoxy f ooring and carpeting are being done, along with the installation of the last few windows. The mechanical systems are being completed with appliances and f xtures getting installed.

We continue on schedule and have now been given a projection date of 1/31/14 for administration to begin occupying the new area. This also includes the living area for the f ref ghters. This is a projection date and the f rst one we have received. All of us are growing with anticipation that we meet this date.

Response continues to go smoothly and in a timely manner . My hope is that my next update will have us in our newly remodeled home with only minor projects left for total completion. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Dispatcher Jerry Lund had the honor of dispatching for the fi rst time in the new Communication Room on Jan. 3.

Firefi ghters are also now fi lling out reports in the new Operations Room.

The appliances are being installed in the kitchen area.

The doors on the left are the new sleeping quarters.

The new backup generator is installed and ready to go if the need arises.

All the tiling is getting done.

Birthdays

January5th Matt Bush David Leslie10th Chad Miller17th John Presley ‘50th’22nd Everett Peterson25th Jerry Lund26th Reety Radke31st Mark Soppe

February10th Rob Gonia15th Scott Jensen24th Sean Laurent

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

Another year has passed and a new one has begun that will be f lled with new challenges and rewards. I hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season. If you were like me, there was plenty of food, family , more food, friends and even more food to go around. Now it’ s time to fast and exercise.

We had another great Christmas Drive where we delivered to 22 families. It is with sincere gratitude and thanks to all that were able to help in any way by donating, shopping, wrapping or delivering these packs of joy . What a treat to see the faces on these individuals as a f re truck made a special delivery to their homes. I would like to think that we all helped to make the holiday season a bit brighter in someone’s life.

This past month has been a busy one. We closed out 2013 with a couple structure f res and rang in the new year of 2014 with a couple as well. I am pleased to say though that none were caused by holiday decorations. It was another successful “Keep the Wreath Red” campaign. We took delivery of a new ambulance this month also.

We are fully entrenched in the winter season now so stay warm and be safe but remember each day that passes we are that much closer to spring. After experiencing these recent temperatures the days of spring can’ t come quick enough for me. Is that a sign of something?

We f nished the calendar year of 2013 with 2666 calls; an increase of 57 calls from 2012. That is an average of a little over 7 calls a day. As our district continues to grow, so will the needs for our services. I assure you that we will continue to bring our communities the commitment of excellence, integrity and caring they have come to expect, and more importantly , deserve. As history has shown, our performance of emergency f re, medical and rescue services is second to none. I remain committed to the continued growth and success of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District.

As we enter 2014, my visions are many . The main one I will not lose focus of, is that we continue to build on our foundation. This continues to be possible because of the dedication and commitment of the trustees, off cers, f ref ghters, paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, chaplains, inspectors, photographers, mechanics and support staff. They ARE the people who make it happen. Thank you to all of them for making us WHO WE ARE. I am honored to be able to represent all of you at various functions that I attend.

If you have any questions about anything regarding your f re department, please don’ t hesitate to call me or stop by . During construction my of f ce has been relocated to Station 3 which is on Willowbrook Road. Don’t forget to friend us on Facebook and always check us out on our website. www.harlemroscoefi re.com.

HRFD Christmas DrivePhotos by Marcia Soppe, Sheryl Drost & Tammy Shoevlin

Firef ghters played Santa to 22 families with a total of 59 children this year. Lists were rounded up from schools in the f re district of families that might need a little help this year.

Firef ghters then collected donations from the community with special Thank you’ s to The Roscoe Chamber , Farm & Fleet, Whiff etree, Top Die, Holsum and Scott Johnson for their contributions toward the success of our drive.

Then it was time to shop and wrap. A turkey with all the f xings as well as the donated non perishables were also sorted into bins for each family. On Dec. 21 Firef ghters headed out in the f re trucks to deliver bags of presents and the bins of food to each family.

Chief Shoevlin and Firefi ghter Greg Wernick check a bin of toys (that was donated by Farm & Fleet) as they shop for presents for one of the kids on the list.

Ron Seeley and Tammy Shoevlin help wrap the mountain of gifts.

Firefi ghters pose for a picture before heading out to deliver the bags of presents and bins of food to the 22 families.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

John Presley - 50thJanuary 17th

The Firehouse Scene The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Prot. Dist.

Editor-in-Chief - Don ShoevlinEditor & Layout - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month @ www.harlemroscoefi re.com

Email submissions to Sheryl: hrfdsdrost@gmail.com

Total Calls for 2013

2666!

Firef ghter Joe Quast and wife Jane show of f their newest grandbaby . Son Joe Jr . and his wife Maria became f rst-time parents to Kinley Elizabeth Quast on 12/19/13. She measured in at 5lbs. 14oz. and 18.5 in long. Congratulations to all, she is adorable!

New Ambulance

Our new ambulance arrived this month and replaced the old Ford C-52. The new ambulance is a Ford 2014 F450 chassis. It is 3ft. longer than our other ambulances; thus giving EMTs more room in the box. It is also has air ride and 4-wheel drive.

the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

Station GossipBy Sheryl Drost

Chief Shoevlin still has some 2014 Calendars left. Stop in at Station #3 at 13974 Willowbrook Rd.

Firef ghters fought four f res in near zero or below zero temperatures this last month. And that -45 wind chill day that everyone else got to stay home, they responded to 18 medical and rescue calls. HRFD Tough!

Conratulations to Firef gter Adam Cox. Adam graduated in December from NIU with a Bachelors in Biological Science and a minor in Chemisty.

2013 Fire Kids Christmas Party was a big hit with Pickles the Clown and, of course, SANTA!

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Station FunniesBy Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com

January 2014 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

Fighting Fires in Freezing Temperatures

pages 5 - 7

Uhm. . .

Now there are two things DC John Bergeron’s granddaughter Jazz could be thinking: Wow, I can see myself in the tire or she could be like Photog Marcia with “Nice Wheels!”

Community CPR Class

Health SaverCPR/AED Class

Sat. Feb. 22, 2014HRFD Fire Station #3

13974 Willowbrook Rd. RoscoeCall 815-623-7867