adult truths the firehouse scene · the rank of captain on feb. 11, 2011. chief shoevlin says,...
TRANSCRIPT
the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District
PostageHarlem-Roscoe FirePO Box 450Roscoe, IL 61073
The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com
March 2011 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost
Photo by Sheyrl Drost
Home Destroyed by FireSee more - pages 4&5
Trustee Dinner Funnies Adult TruthsI think part of a best friends job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.Nothing is worse than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was a toddler.Was learning cursive really necessary?Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least a little tired.Bad decisions make good stories.Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after blue ray? I don’t want to restart my collection...again!I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.I have a hard time deciphering the fi ne line between boredom and hunger.I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front.Sometimes I look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and I still can’t tell you what time it is.The fi rst testicle guard, the “cup” was used in hockey in 1874 and the fi rst helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is important too.How many times is it appropriate to say “What?”, before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear or understand a word they said.
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Fire brigade was ready as Asst. Chief Ken O’Dell blew out his 65 birthday candles!
Left, Rob Lukowski loved his new H-R work out gear so much he had to put it on at the dinner. Right, Mike Sherbon was there in spirit as Lt. Ryan Alms and Firefi ghter Paul Stanphill accepted their awards for most runs.
From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin
I hope we all remembered to spring ahead. Daylight savings time has arrived which means warmer weather cannot be too far behind. Please also remember to replace your batteries in your smoke detectors and CO alarms.
With spring comes the beginning of many events we participate in. This past weekend we were at Hononegah High School participating
in Ro Ro. You should have received in your mail information on the Harlem Roscoe Firefi ghters Association Annual Spring Dinner. It will be held this Saturday, March 19, at our Headquarters Station on Main Street in Roscoe. I hope you have the opportunity to join us for some good food in a relaxed atmosphere. We greatly appreciate your generous support and it is always a pleasure to meet and talk to everyone that evening.
I would be remiss not to mention and thank some outside organization for their support. First off, Village of Roscoe President Dave Krienke nominated the Fire Department for the Roscoe Community Service Award; which is sponsored by the Northern Winnebago County Rotary Club. Thank you to both the village and the Rotary Club for this recognition. It is an honor to be part of this fi ne community. Another thank you goes to the Beloit Junior Woman’s Club for their generous donation. They are providing the funds for three Advanced Life Support pediatric medical kits. They provided us with a kit a couple years ago, and with this generous gift we will have a kit in each of our four ambulances.
A couple items to be watching for: We are planning and have received approval from the Board of Trustees to establish a HRFD Firefi ghter Memorial in front of Station 1. We began work on it last fall and are looking for completion this spring. This year is also the 10th anniversary of the tragic 911 incident. We will be doing a special memorial event during the fall of this year. Don’t forget to keep up on the progress of your fi re department by visiting our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com.
Beloit Junior Woman’s ClubMarch 4, 2011
On behalf of the Beloit Junior Woman’s Club, I would like to congratulate the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department as being recipients of funding for our EMS-C club project, EMS medical bags specifi cally for children. We were able to provide you with one bag a couple years back and now we are extremely proud and excited to be able to provide you with additional bags for all of your ambulances. At our February meeting our club ladies voted unanimously to provide you with funding for 3 - ALS pediatric medical kits to enable all four of your ambulances to carry the same medical care equipment for children.
Thank you very much for the excellent work you do for everyone in our community to provide care for citizens of all ages in emergency situations! We are very impressed by the efforts you put forth in everything your department does to provide fi re and emergency medical services for our community!
Sincerely, Past President Debra Rykowski EMS-C Project Chairperson
Lt. Aaker Promoted to CaptainPhoto by Sheryl Drost
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief Don Shoevlin announces the promotion of Lt. Tom Aaker to the rank of Captain on Feb. 11, 2011. Chief Shoevlin says, “Tom has shown that he will not back away from any challenge that is presented to him. He always has the goal of the success of the fi refi ghters. He continually seeks the tools necessary for the fi refi ghters to achieve success. He has committed to further
his knowledge and has the passion to assist others.”
Captain Aaker joined the department January 1996. He was promoted to Lieutenant Feb. 21, 2004 and to Captain, February 11, 2011. Tom became an EMT-B on January 1997. He has served as Equipment Offi cer for 12+ years. Tom is also the Training Offi cer for the Department.
Tom is State Certifi ed Fire Offi cer II, Firefi ghter III, Haz-Mat Ops, & NIMS Compliant. He has taken numerous classes in extrication, confi ned space, fi re tactics, water supply, and has multiple state certifi cations on the awareness level. Tom also attended training with Nicor and ComEd in their regional training classes.
Tom received the department’s Rookie of the Year Award in 1996 and the Firefi ghter Good Service of the Year Award in 2006.
Tom and his wife Amber have two children; Piper (2.5 yrs.) and Thomas Jr. (1-yr.).
Trustee Jerry Ocker swears in Tom as a Captain as Tom’s wife Amber looks on.
New Captain Tom Aaker poses with his wife Amber, Chief Don Shoevlin, and Trustee Jerry Ocker.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
NFPA Celebrates Sparky’s 60th birthday
Sparky the Fire Dog was created in 1951 for an Advertising Council campaign. Two years later his fi re prevention
campaign reached more than 68 million people through radio public service announcements and another three million through television. As an infl uential fi gure in fi re prevention, his success can be attributed to collaboration with fi refi ghters and others to educate the public on important prevention and safety messages. He has even experienced a touch of fame; in the 1980’s, celebrity Dick Van Dyke served as the voice of Sparky to help expand the reach of Sparky’s messages.
“Sparky has allowed us to connect with millions of children and their families by making it exciting to learn about fi re prevention and safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of communications. “With this anniversary, we aim to reach more children, parents and educators with fun events and new educational programs throughout the year.”
Since Sparky’s inception in the 1950’s, the number of fi res and fi re injuries in the United States has declined, which is due in part to enhanced public education efforts. Today, approximately 3,000 people die each year because of fi res and thousands are injured. Sparky’s work continues and is more important than ever because most fi res can be prevented when people take personal responsibility and follow a few safety guidelines. Sparky is asking everyone to take a few moments during his special anniversary year to learn what they can do to reduce the number of fi res and fi re-related injuries.
NFPA Launches NewSparky the Fire Dog Match Gamewww.sparky.com
As part of the year-long celebration of Sparky the Fire Dog®’s 60th birthday, NFPA has launched a new educational matching game which teaches preschoolers about smoke alarms on
Sparky’s website (www.sparky.org). The game, designed for children ages three to fi ve, was created by NFPA and WGBH Kids Interactive, makers of PBS websites like Curious George and Martha Speaks.
“We know from NFPA statistics that children under age fi ve are nearly one and a half times as likely to die in a home fi re as the general public,” said Amy LeBeau, NFPA’s communications manager for public education. “Using a fun and interactive tool to educate young children about smoke alarms and what to do if one sounds is a great way to infl uence their safety behavior.”
Are you Ready?
A few easy steps can save your life!
If you’re hearing-impaired, install smoke alarms with fl ashing lights or vibrating signals. Keep a phone and emergency numbers within arm’s reachIf you have vision impairments, install smoke alarms that have small windows of silence so you can hear instructions or voices of others.If you use a wheelchair, consider mounting a personal fi re extinguisher on the wheelchair within easy reach. Learn how to use it.Make an escape plan. Ask your family, building manager, or neighbors to help you practice your plan.Consider sleeping on the ground fl oor to make escape easier. Install ramps or widen doorways, if needed, to make escape easier.Keep a phone and emergency numbers nearby so you can call for help.Never smoke in bed or when you are sleepy, using alcohol, or taking medications.Cook safely. Use a timer, and if you must leave the kitchen while cooking, take along a pot holder or dish towel to remind you to go back to the kitchen.Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from beds, blankets, furniture, and curtains.Have an electrician check your home’s wiring every 10 years. Never overload outlets or extension cords.If you have a disability, are hard of hearing, or have vision problems, ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on fi le.
Older Adults and Home Fires Facts
Older adults (ages 65 and older) are twice as likely as any other age group to die in a home fi re.Older adults are also at higher risk of injury from fi res.The fi re death rate for people 85 and older is fi ve
times the national average.Careless smoking accounts for nearly one third of fi re deaths among adults over age 70.One third of all adults ages 70 and older have some form of hearing impairment.
Children and Home Fires Facts
Children make up 15%-20% of all fi re deaths.Children younger than 5 are at greatest risk of fi re deaths and injuries, with a fi re death rate more than twice the national average.Two thirds of fi res that kill children younger than
5 are in homes that do not have a smoke alarm.Almost 55% of children ages 5 and under who die from home fi res are asleep at the time.Nearly one third of children who die in fi res are too young to react appropriately.Children set about 8,000 home fi res each year.
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Mutual Aid FiresBy Sheryl Drost
When a local fi re department needs more equipment or personnel, the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) is activated. This will dispatch a MABAS Box Alarm. These alarms have all been pre-planned by the MABAS 8 Fire Chiefs as to what trucks and personnel are to be sent depending on what box and alarm that fi re department requests.
Firefi ghters responded to two major MABAS Box Alarms this month for two large fi res in our neighboring fi re districts.
First up was a call from North Park Fire on February 11 for a house fi re on Harlem Rd. in Machesney Park. Quint 752 and Engine 704 responded to the scene. The crews assisted with ventilation and overhaul.
The next call came from Rockton Fire for a fully involved house fi re out on Moffett Rd. This MABAS Box Alarm called for a Chief and a Tender. Chief Shoevlin was assigned Operations Chief on the scene and our tender hauled 36,000 gallons of water.
Harlem Rd. FirePhoto by Marcia Soppe
Quint 752 crew helped with ventilation and overhaul
Moffet Rd. FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost
Chief Shoevlin was assigned as Operations Chief
Chief Shoevlin has Operations in the front of the burning building.
Mutual Aid departments worked together to fi ght the Moffett Rd. fi re.
Captain Mike Drost said our Tender shuttled 36,000 gallons of water in 12 trips during the massive fi re.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
Garage FireStory by Chief Don ShoevlinPhotos by Marcia Soppe
Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters responded to a garage on fi re on Briarwood Ln. on March 3. Upon arrival, fi refi ghters encountered a detached 2-car garage with fi re on an interior wall; extending to the garage roof. Extinguishment and overhaul was completed. It appears the cause of the fi re was electrical in nature.
Firefi ghters work to extinguish a blaze in a 2-car garage.
A tender was used to supply water.
Firefi ghters Jordan Stark and Ken Boris check for hot spots.
Burlington Coat Factory Recalls Slow Cookers
Hazard: The slow cooker’s control panel can overheat and melt, posing a fi re hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The manufacturer has received 60 reports of the control panels smoking, melting and sparking, and three reports of panels catching
fi re. Fourteen incidents resulted in minor damage to counter tops. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves Bella Kitchen 5-quart programmable slow cookers. The slow cookers are black with “Bella Kitchen” printed on the control panel. Only slow cookers with model number WJ-5000DE and date codes 0907 or 0909 are included in this recall. The model number and the four-digit date code are printed on a label on the underside of the product.
Sold at: Burlington Coat Factory stores from June 2010 through December 2010 for $20.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the slow cooker immediately, unplug it and return the slow cooker to Burlington Coat Factory for a full refund or store credit.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Burlington Coat Factory toll-free at (888) 223-2628 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the fi rm’s website at http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com
Lennox Hearth Products Recalls Gas Log Burner
Hazard: A crack can develop at the gas valve connection allowing natural gas to leak while the burner is in use, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Incidents/Injuries: Lennox has received 20 reports of cracks at the gas
valve connection. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves gas burners sold with Lennox brand Shadowdance natural gas log set burner assemblies. The product is used in a wood-burning fi replace or a ventless fi rebox enclosure. The assemblies were sold under model numbers LSVFSD-18, LSVFSD-24 and LSVFSD-30, and include a burner and ceramic-fi ber log set. Replacement gas burners also were sold separately under model number LSVFSD-NG. Burners included in this recall have serial numbers that begin with 6407, 6408, 6409 and 6410A through 6410G. The burner’s model and serial numbers are printed on a metal identifi cation plate attached to the burner.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled natural gas log set burner assemblies. Consumers can contact Lennox to arrange for a free replacement of the burner.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, please contact Lennox Hearth Products at (800) 299-0027 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the fi rm’s website at http://www.lennoxhearthproducts.com.
Birthdays
March
3rd John Donovan6th Christi Wilson Steve Shoevlin ‘25th’7th Bryson Knox16th Aaron Miller Adam Cox21st Mike Morrison22nd Jay Alms23rd Radi Huggard ‘30th’29th Sheryl Drost
April
1st Jeff Ball ‘50th’10th Colleen Bloyer12th Ami Sommerfi eld24th Paul Stanphill29th Snoopy
Total Calls for 2011 364
Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe F.P.D.
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 web site after the second Sunday each month. www.harlemroscoefi re.com
E-mail submissions to: Sheryl @ fi [email protected]
Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters Association’sAnnual Fundraiser . . .
SPRING DINNER• Saturday, March 19, 2011• 5 pm – 8:00 pm• Adults – $8, Kids 12 and under - $4 Under 5 free• Harlem-Roscoe Station #1 @ 10544 Main St.
Menu: Roast Beef, Ham, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Vegetables, Cole Slaw, Buns, Dessert, Coffee, and Milk.
For carryouts & local deliveries: Call 623-7867 the day of the dinner.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
Fire Destroys HomeStory by Chief Don ShoevlinPhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe
Harlem Roscoe Firefi ghters were dispatched at 1:40 am for a report of a house fi re on Nesting Eagles St. in Machesney Park. Upon arrival of fi rst units, there was fi re through the roof of a single family residence.
It took fi refi ghters approximately 60 minutes to bring the fi re under control, battling a brisk NW wind which fueled the fi re as well.
The occupants in the home were alerted by smoke detectors and exited the home safely. Firefi ghters remained on the scene until 4:30 am extinguishing hot spots. The home is uninhabitable. There were no injuries to fi refi ghters.
Jeff Ball - 50thApril 1st
The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
02/17/11 Clearwing Ln. 02/21/11 Belvidere Rd.
Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe
02/20/11 Roscoe Rd.
02/19/11 McCurry Rd.
02/26/11 Belvidere Rd. 02/19/11 Roscoe Rd. Hit & Run
The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7
Most Fire Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
Most Medical Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
Station One Capt. Mike Drost
Josh Hoffl andKen Boris
Marty GreenRandy Lovelace
AdamCox
Randy Lovelace
JoshHoffl and
Station Two Paul Stanphill
MikeSherbon
Lt. Ryan Alms
Mike Sherbon
Paul Stanphill
Capt. Jay Alms
Station Three SteveShoevlin
Lt. Mike Huffman
Brandon Tietz
SteveShoevlin
Lt. MikeHuffman
BrandonTietz
Annual Appreciation Award Dinner Photos by Sheryl Drost
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustees Jerry Ocker, Bart Munger, and John Donahue hosted the Annual Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustee’s Appreciation Award Night on February 11.
This year’s award dinner was held at the Forest Hill’s Lodge and the meal was catered by ABC Catering. Both the location and the meal were enjoyed by all. Now for some highlights...
Trustees John Donahue, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger.
L-r, The current trustees presented former Trustee Jim Burdick with an appreciation plaque, Chief Shoevlin poses for a candid with the department’s attorney, Nate Noble.
A special presentation was given to Dispatcher Guy ‘Snoopy’ Stirts and Lt. Ron Klaman recognizing their 20 years of fi re service.
After all the offi cers votes were counted Chief Don Shoevlin presented Mike Helland with the 2010 Rookie of the Year Award. Congratulations Mike!
After all fi re personnel votes were counted, Firefi ghter Marty Green was chosen to receive the 2010 Firefi ghters Choice for Good Service Award. Congratulations, Marty! Pictured l-r, Chief Don Shoevlin, Marty, and Marty’s wife Kelly.
A special recognition was given to Firefi ghter Randy Lovelace for his perfect participation in Tuesday night drill trainings; the fi rst person to do so. Pictured l-r, Chief Shoevlin, Randy, and DC John Bergeron.
L-r, 10-year Fire Service Pins - Paul Stanphill, Neil Roe and Lt. Mike Huffman. 5-year Fire Service Pins - Jordan Stark, Bill Hyde, Gina Kaiser, Joe Koeninger, and Rob Lukowski. 20-year Medical Service Pin - Mike Sherbon.
L-r, 15-year Medical Service Pins - Lt. Jerry McCormick and Capt. Jay Alms. 10-year Medical Service Pins - John Morgan, Keith Lincoln, Lt. Mike Huffman, and Jeff Morris.
L-r, 5-year Medical Service Pins - Lt. Ron Klaman & Mark Soppe. Chief Don Shoevlin and DC John Bergeron pose with new EMT-B’s - Megan Alms, Ken Boris, and Greg Wernick. Trustee Jerry Ocker presented Chief Shoevlin with a plaque for completion of Fire Offi cer III State Certifi cation.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7
Most Fire Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
Most Medical Runs 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place
Station One Capt. Mike Drost
Josh Hoffl andKen Boris
Marty GreenRandy Lovelace
AdamCox
Randy Lovelace
JoshHoffl and
Station Two Paul Stanphill
MikeSherbon
Lt. Ryan Alms
Mike Sherbon
Paul Stanphill
Capt. Jay Alms
Station Three SteveShoevlin
Lt. Mike Huffman
Brandon Tietz
SteveShoevlin
Lt. MikeHuffman
BrandonTietz
Annual Appreciation Award Dinner Photos by Sheryl Drost
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustees Jerry Ocker, Bart Munger, and John Donahue hosted the Annual Harlem-Roscoe Fire Trustee’s Appreciation Award Night on February 11.
This year’s award dinner was held at the Forest Hill’s Lodge and the meal was catered by ABC Catering. Both the location and the meal were enjoyed by all. Now for some highlights...
Trustees John Donahue, Jerry Ocker, and Bart Munger.
L-r, The current trustees presented former Trustee Jim Burdick with an appreciation plaque, Chief Shoevlin poses for a candid with the department’s attorney, Nate Noble.
A special presentation was given to Dispatcher Guy ‘Snoopy’ Stirts and Lt. Ron Klaman recognizing their 20 years of fi re service.
After all the offi cers votes were counted Chief Don Shoevlin presented Mike Helland with the 2010 Rookie of the Year Award. Congratulations Mike!
After all fi re personnel votes were counted, Firefi ghter Marty Green was chosen to receive the 2010 Firefi ghters Choice for Good Service Award. Congratulations, Marty! Pictured l-r, Chief Don Shoevlin, Marty, and Marty’s wife Kelly.
A special recognition was given to Firefi ghter Randy Lovelace for his perfect participation in Tuesday night drill trainings; the fi rst person to do so. Pictured l-r, Chief Shoevlin, Randy, and DC John Bergeron.
L-r, 10-year Fire Service Pins - Paul Stanphill, Neil Roe and Lt. Mike Huffman. 5-year Fire Service Pins - Jordan Stark, Bill Hyde, Gina Kaiser, Joe Koeninger, and Rob Lukowski. 20-year Medical Service Pin - Mike Sherbon.
L-r, 15-year Medical Service Pins - Lt. Jerry McCormick and Capt. Jay Alms. 10-year Medical Service Pins - John Morgan, Keith Lincoln, Lt. Mike Huffman, and Jeff Morris.
L-r, 5-year Medical Service Pins - Lt. Ron Klaman & Mark Soppe. Chief Don Shoevlin and DC John Bergeron pose with new EMT-B’s - Megan Alms, Ken Boris, and Greg Wernick. Trustee Jerry Ocker presented Chief Shoevlin with a plaque for completion of Fire Offi cer III State Certifi cation.
The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
02/17/11 Clearwing Ln. 02/21/11 Belvidere Rd.
Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe
02/20/11 Roscoe Rd.
02/19/11 McCurry Rd.
02/26/11 Belvidere Rd. 02/19/11 Roscoe Rd. Hit & Run
Birthdays
March
3rd John Donovan6th Christi Wilson Steve Shoevlin ‘25th’7th Bryson Knox16th Aaron Miller Adam Cox21st Mike Morrison22nd Jay Alms23rd Radi Huggard ‘30th’29th Sheryl Drost
April
1st Jeff Ball ‘50th’10th Colleen Bloyer12th Ami Sommerfi eld24th Paul Stanphill29th Snoopy
Total Calls for 2011 364
Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe F.P.D.
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 web site after the second Sunday each month. www.harlemroscoefi re.com
E-mail submissions to: Sheryl @ fi [email protected]
Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters Association’sAnnual Fundraiser . . .
SPRING DINNER• Saturday, March 19, 2011• 5 pm – 8:00 pm• Adults – $8, Kids 12 and under - $4 Under 5 free• Harlem-Roscoe Station #1 @ 10544 Main St.
Menu: Roast Beef, Ham, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Vegetables, Cole Slaw, Buns, Dessert, Coffee, and Milk.
For carryouts & local deliveries: Call 623-7867 the day of the dinner.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
Fire Destroys HomeStory by Chief Don ShoevlinPhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe
Harlem Roscoe Firefi ghters were dispatched at 1:40 am for a report of a house fi re on Nesting Eagles St. in Machesney Park. Upon arrival of fi rst units, there was fi re through the roof of a single family residence.
It took fi refi ghters approximately 60 minutes to bring the fi re under control, battling a brisk NW wind which fueled the fi re as well.
The occupants in the home were alerted by smoke detectors and exited the home safely. Firefi ghters remained on the scene until 4:30 am extinguishing hot spots. The home is uninhabitable. There were no injuries to fi refi ghters.
Jeff Ball - 50thApril 1st
Mutual Aid FiresBy Sheryl Drost
When a local fi re department needs more equipment or personnel, the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) is activated. This will dispatch a MABAS Box Alarm. These alarms have all been pre-planned by the MABAS 8 Fire Chiefs as to what trucks and personnel are to be sent depending on what box and alarm that fi re department requests.
Firefi ghters responded to two major MABAS Box Alarms this month for two large fi res in our neighboring fi re districts.
First up was a call from North Park Fire on February 11 for a house fi re on Harlem Rd. in Machesney Park. Quint 752 and Engine 704 responded to the scene. The crews assisted with ventilation and overhaul.
The next call came from Rockton Fire for a fully involved house fi re out on Moffett Rd. This MABAS Box Alarm called for a Chief and a Tender. Chief Shoevlin was assigned Operations Chief on the scene and our tender hauled 36,000 gallons of water.
Harlem Rd. FirePhoto by Marcia Soppe
Quint 752 crew helped with ventilation and overhaul
Moffet Rd. FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost
Chief Shoevlin was assigned as Operations Chief
Chief Shoevlin has Operations in the front of the burning building.
Mutual Aid departments worked together to fi ght the Moffett Rd. fi re.
Captain Mike Drost said our Tender shuttled 36,000 gallons of water in 12 trips during the massive fi re.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
Garage FireStory by Chief Don ShoevlinPhotos by Marcia Soppe
Harlem-Roscoe Firefi ghters responded to a garage on fi re on Briarwood Ln. on March 3. Upon arrival, fi refi ghters encountered a detached 2-car garage with fi re on an interior wall; extending to the garage roof. Extinguishment and overhaul was completed. It appears the cause of the fi re was electrical in nature.
Firefi ghters work to extinguish a blaze in a 2-car garage.
A tender was used to supply water.
Firefi ghters Jordan Stark and Ken Boris check for hot spots.
Burlington Coat Factory Recalls Slow Cookers
Hazard: The slow cooker’s control panel can overheat and melt, posing a fi re hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: The manufacturer has received 60 reports of the control panels smoking, melting and sparking, and three reports of panels catching
fi re. Fourteen incidents resulted in minor damage to counter tops. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves Bella Kitchen 5-quart programmable slow cookers. The slow cookers are black with “Bella Kitchen” printed on the control panel. Only slow cookers with model number WJ-5000DE and date codes 0907 or 0909 are included in this recall. The model number and the four-digit date code are printed on a label on the underside of the product.
Sold at: Burlington Coat Factory stores from June 2010 through December 2010 for $20.
Remedy: Consumers should stop using the slow cooker immediately, unplug it and return the slow cooker to Burlington Coat Factory for a full refund or store credit.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Burlington Coat Factory toll-free at (888) 223-2628 between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the fi rm’s website at http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com
Lennox Hearth Products Recalls Gas Log Burner
Hazard: A crack can develop at the gas valve connection allowing natural gas to leak while the burner is in use, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Incidents/Injuries: Lennox has received 20 reports of cracks at the gas
valve connection. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves gas burners sold with Lennox brand Shadowdance natural gas log set burner assemblies. The product is used in a wood-burning fi replace or a ventless fi rebox enclosure. The assemblies were sold under model numbers LSVFSD-18, LSVFSD-24 and LSVFSD-30, and include a burner and ceramic-fi ber log set. Replacement gas burners also were sold separately under model number LSVFSD-NG. Burners included in this recall have serial numbers that begin with 6407, 6408, 6409 and 6410A through 6410G. The burner’s model and serial numbers are printed on a metal identifi cation plate attached to the burner.
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled natural gas log set burner assemblies. Consumers can contact Lennox to arrange for a free replacement of the burner.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, please contact Lennox Hearth Products at (800) 299-0027 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the fi rm’s website at http://www.lennoxhearthproducts.com.
From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin
I hope we all remembered to spring ahead. Daylight savings time has arrived which means warmer weather cannot be too far behind. Please also remember to replace your batteries in your smoke detectors and CO alarms.
With spring comes the beginning of many events we participate in. This past weekend we were at Hononegah High School participating
in Ro Ro. You should have received in your mail information on the Harlem Roscoe Firefi ghters Association Annual Spring Dinner. It will be held this Saturday, March 19, at our Headquarters Station on Main Street in Roscoe. I hope you have the opportunity to join us for some good food in a relaxed atmosphere. We greatly appreciate your generous support and it is always a pleasure to meet and talk to everyone that evening.
I would be remiss not to mention and thank some outside organization for their support. First off, Village of Roscoe President Dave Krienke nominated the Fire Department for the Roscoe Community Service Award; which is sponsored by the Northern Winnebago County Rotary Club. Thank you to both the village and the Rotary Club for this recognition. It is an honor to be part of this fi ne community. Another thank you goes to the Beloit Junior Woman’s Club for their generous donation. They are providing the funds for three Advanced Life Support pediatric medical kits. They provided us with a kit a couple years ago, and with this generous gift we will have a kit in each of our four ambulances.
A couple items to be watching for: We are planning and have received approval from the Board of Trustees to establish a HRFD Firefi ghter Memorial in front of Station 1. We began work on it last fall and are looking for completion this spring. This year is also the 10th anniversary of the tragic 911 incident. We will be doing a special memorial event during the fall of this year. Don’t forget to keep up on the progress of your fi re department by visiting our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com.
Beloit Junior Woman’s ClubMarch 4, 2011
On behalf of the Beloit Junior Woman’s Club, I would like to congratulate the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department as being recipients of funding for our EMS-C club project, EMS medical bags specifi cally for children. We were able to provide you with one bag a couple years back and now we are extremely proud and excited to be able to provide you with additional bags for all of your ambulances. At our February meeting our club ladies voted unanimously to provide you with funding for 3 - ALS pediatric medical kits to enable all four of your ambulances to carry the same medical care equipment for children.
Thank you very much for the excellent work you do for everyone in our community to provide care for citizens of all ages in emergency situations! We are very impressed by the efforts you put forth in everything your department does to provide fi re and emergency medical services for our community!
Sincerely, Past President Debra Rykowski EMS-C Project Chairperson
Lt. Aaker Promoted to CaptainPhoto by Sheryl Drost
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief Don Shoevlin announces the promotion of Lt. Tom Aaker to the rank of Captain on Feb. 11, 2011. Chief Shoevlin says, “Tom has shown that he will not back away from any challenge that is presented to him. He always has the goal of the success of the fi refi ghters. He continually seeks the tools necessary for the fi refi ghters to achieve success. He has committed to further
his knowledge and has the passion to assist others.”
Captain Aaker joined the department January 1996. He was promoted to Lieutenant Feb. 21, 2004 and to Captain, February 11, 2011. Tom became an EMT-B on January 1997. He has served as Equipment Offi cer for 12+ years. Tom is also the Training Offi cer for the Department.
Tom is State Certifi ed Fire Offi cer II, Firefi ghter III, Haz-Mat Ops, & NIMS Compliant. He has taken numerous classes in extrication, confi ned space, fi re tactics, water supply, and has multiple state certifi cations on the awareness level. Tom also attended training with Nicor and ComEd in their regional training classes.
Tom received the department’s Rookie of the Year Award in 1996 and the Firefi ghter Good Service of the Year Award in 2006.
Tom and his wife Amber have two children; Piper (2.5 yrs.) and Thomas Jr. (1-yr.).
Trustee Jerry Ocker swears in Tom as a Captain as Tom’s wife Amber looks on.
New Captain Tom Aaker poses with his wife Amber, Chief Don Shoevlin, and Trustee Jerry Ocker.
The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com
NFPA Celebrates Sparky’s 60th birthday
Sparky the Fire Dog was created in 1951 for an Advertising Council campaign. Two years later his fi re prevention
campaign reached more than 68 million people through radio public service announcements and another three million through television. As an infl uential fi gure in fi re prevention, his success can be attributed to collaboration with fi refi ghters and others to educate the public on important prevention and safety messages. He has even experienced a touch of fame; in the 1980’s, celebrity Dick Van Dyke served as the voice of Sparky to help expand the reach of Sparky’s messages.
“Sparky has allowed us to connect with millions of children and their families by making it exciting to learn about fi re prevention and safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of communications. “With this anniversary, we aim to reach more children, parents and educators with fun events and new educational programs throughout the year.”
Since Sparky’s inception in the 1950’s, the number of fi res and fi re injuries in the United States has declined, which is due in part to enhanced public education efforts. Today, approximately 3,000 people die each year because of fi res and thousands are injured. Sparky’s work continues and is more important than ever because most fi res can be prevented when people take personal responsibility and follow a few safety guidelines. Sparky is asking everyone to take a few moments during his special anniversary year to learn what they can do to reduce the number of fi res and fi re-related injuries.
NFPA Launches NewSparky the Fire Dog Match Gamewww.sparky.com
As part of the year-long celebration of Sparky the Fire Dog®’s 60th birthday, NFPA has launched a new educational matching game which teaches preschoolers about smoke alarms on
Sparky’s website (www.sparky.org). The game, designed for children ages three to fi ve, was created by NFPA and WGBH Kids Interactive, makers of PBS websites like Curious George and Martha Speaks.
“We know from NFPA statistics that children under age fi ve are nearly one and a half times as likely to die in a home fi re as the general public,” said Amy LeBeau, NFPA’s communications manager for public education. “Using a fun and interactive tool to educate young children about smoke alarms and what to do if one sounds is a great way to infl uence their safety behavior.”
Are you Ready?
A few easy steps can save your life!
If you’re hearing-impaired, install smoke alarms with fl ashing lights or vibrating signals. Keep a phone and emergency numbers within arm’s reachIf you have vision impairments, install smoke alarms that have small windows of silence so you can hear instructions or voices of others.If you use a wheelchair, consider mounting a personal fi re extinguisher on the wheelchair within easy reach. Learn how to use it.Make an escape plan. Ask your family, building manager, or neighbors to help you practice your plan.Consider sleeping on the ground fl oor to make escape easier. Install ramps or widen doorways, if needed, to make escape easier.Keep a phone and emergency numbers nearby so you can call for help.Never smoke in bed or when you are sleepy, using alcohol, or taking medications.Cook safely. Use a timer, and if you must leave the kitchen while cooking, take along a pot holder or dish towel to remind you to go back to the kitchen.Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from beds, blankets, furniture, and curtains.Have an electrician check your home’s wiring every 10 years. Never overload outlets or extension cords.If you have a disability, are hard of hearing, or have vision problems, ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on fi le.
Older Adults and Home Fires Facts
Older adults (ages 65 and older) are twice as likely as any other age group to die in a home fi re.Older adults are also at higher risk of injury from fi res.The fi re death rate for people 85 and older is fi ve
times the national average.Careless smoking accounts for nearly one third of fi re deaths among adults over age 70.One third of all adults ages 70 and older have some form of hearing impairment.
Children and Home Fires Facts
Children make up 15%-20% of all fi re deaths.Children younger than 5 are at greatest risk of fi re deaths and injuries, with a fi re death rate more than twice the national average.Two thirds of fi res that kill children younger than
5 are in homes that do not have a smoke alarm.Almost 55% of children ages 5 and under who die from home fi res are asleep at the time.Nearly one third of children who die in fi res are too young to react appropriately.Children set about 8,000 home fi res each year.
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the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District
PostageHarlem-Roscoe FirePO Box 450Roscoe, IL 61073
The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com
March 2011 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost
Photo by Sheyrl Drost
Home Destroyed by FireSee more - pages 4&5
Trustee Dinner Funnies Adult TruthsI think part of a best friends job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.Nothing is worse than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was a toddler.Was learning cursive really necessary?Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least a little tired.Bad decisions make good stories.Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after blue ray? I don’t want to restart my collection...again!I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.I have a hard time deciphering the fi ne line between boredom and hunger.I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front.Sometimes I look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and I still can’t tell you what time it is.The fi rst testicle guard, the “cup” was used in hockey in 1874 and the fi rst helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is important too.How many times is it appropriate to say “What?”, before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear or understand a word they said.
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Fire brigade was ready as Asst. Chief Ken O’Dell blew out his 65 birthday candles!
Left, Rob Lukowski loved his new H-R work out gear so much he had to put it on at the dinner. Right, Mike Sherbon was there in spirit as Lt. Ryan Alms and Firefi ghter Paul Stanphill accepted their awards for most runs.