September-october 2009 Twit

Two-Alarm Structure Fire in the City of El Cajon

Dedicated to the First Responders of the Heartland Fire Zone

Bonita Tree Rescue El Cajon Mobile Home Fire on Ballard Lakeside Youth becomes Trapped in a Storm Drain Strike Team 6440C: La Brea and Lockheed Fires Meet the Crews at Imperial Beach and Lakeside

September-October 2009

from the Editor

LODD: Agent Robert Rosas Alpine Fire Fire Chief Bill Paskle Agency Editors Brad Rushing Patrick Dotson Barona Fire Fire Chief Randy Sandoval Agency Editor Mike Hook Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Fire Chief Scott Walker Agency Editor Josh Krimston

On July 23rd, while patrolling the US-Mexico border in the area of Campo US Border Patrol Agent Robert Rosas was killed while performing his duties off Shockey Truck Trail.

Project Coordinator Mark Grow Webmaster Ray Trussell Facebook Heartland Zone News Electronic-Mail [email protected]

Coronado Fire Fire Chief John Traylor Agency Editor Darren Hall Larry Hogueisson

This 30 year old agent leaves behind a family that includes a 2 year old son and an 11 month old daughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with this family while they deal with the loss of a son, husband, and father. You will not be forgotten....

LODD: Firefighter Thomas Marovich Jr

El Cajon Fire Fire Chief Mike Scott Agency Editors Jay Wojnowski Brandon Farrelly Eric Edwins

On July 21st Firefighter Thomas Marovich Jr lost his life while rappelling from a helicopter during qualifications on the Backbone Fire.

Grossmont Pre-Hospital Department Manager Mary Meadows-Pitt Agency Editors Dianne Idman-Gervais Maude Deklerk

Twenty year old Marovich was a second year apprentice with the Modoc National Forest.

Heartland Communications Director Chip Yarborough Agency Editor Nikki Lewis

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Marovich family as they deal with the loss of their son.

Imperial Beach Fire Fire Chief Frank Sotelo Agency Editor Jason Bell La Mesa Fire Fire Chief Dave Burke Agency Editor Scott Springett Lakeside Fire Fire Chief Mark Baker Agency Editor Chuck Palmore Lemon Grove Fire Fire Chief Tim Laff Agency Editor Brian Hayward National City Fire Fire Chief Roderick Juniel San Miguel Consolidated Fire Fire Chief August Ghio Agency Editors Leonard Villarreal Kevin Clark Nick Williams Santee Fire Fire Chief Mike Rottenberg Agency Editor Rick Williams Chris Thompson Viejas Fire Fire Chief Donald Butz Agency Editor Ray Trussell

On the Cover El Cajon Fire Captain Mike Chasin and Firefighter-Paramedic William Thron on the roof of a well involved structure on Grossmont Ave. Multiple Heartland agencies assisted on this second alarm structure fire. Photography By: Ted Kakuris Battalion Chief El Cajon Fire Department

You will not be forgotten.....

LODD: Lieutenant Charles (Chip) McCarthy and Fire Fighter Jonathan Croom Mayor Byron W. Brown and Buffalo Fire Commissioner Michael Lombardo today issued the following statement: Lieutenant Charles (Chip) McCarthy and Fire Fighter Jonathan Croom lost their lives today (August 24, 2009) while fighting a fire that was reported at 3:50 a.m.in a convenience store at the corner of Genesee Street and Burgard Place. Today was a day of great tragedy and loss for the brave men and women of the Buffalo Fire Department. The City of Buffalo and the Fire Department mourns the loss of Lieutenant McCarthy and Fire Fighter Croom, who responded to their call to duty and did what every fire fighter does every day – sought to protect anyone who might be in danger. We honor the memory of these true heroes You will not be forgotten...

Two Alarm Structure in El Cajon: Report on a difficult residential fire that went two alarms. Bonita Tree Rescue: A tree trimmer became trapped 40’ above the ground. Multiple agencies respond to the emergency Intranasal: Medic have a new route for Narcan and Versed administration. El Cajon Mobile Home Fire El Cajon and San Miguel firefighters respond to a working fire on Ballard. Child Trapped in Drain Opening Lakeside and El Cajon crews work to free child in Lakeside Strike Team 6440C Heartland crews respond to the La Brea and Lockheed Fires. Agency Reports News from the participating agencies.

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Narrative By:

Mike Chasin Fire Captain El Cajon Fire Department Photography By:

Ted Kakuris Battalion Chief El Cajon Fire Department Photography By:

Carly Kakuris Featured Photographer

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ometime around noon the younger of the two residents of the 800 block of Grossmont Avenue noticed a fire in their converted garage. She assisted her elderly mother from their home, only to see her run back inside to rescue her pet dog. Other civilians tried to assist her, but were driven away by the “blowtorch-like” flames blasting out of the garage into the breezeway. The elderly woman eventually came out with her dog, and burns to her arms.

ON SCENE Engines 6, 7, 9, Truck 6, Medic 6 and Battalion 3 were dispatched to the blaze. Engine 6 was the first engine to arrive on scene, just 4 minutes later. They met Fire Chief Mike Scott, who happened to be nearby and noticed the column of smoke. They arrived to find a 60 year old single story home well involved in fire. The converted garage was engulfed in flames, and the breezeway that attached the garage to the main home was aiding the fire spread to the main residence. Battalion 3 Chief Phil Snow arrived on scene moments later and assumed Incident Command. He quickly directed crews to make a fire attack and ventilate the structure. He also requested a second alarm response. Engine 6 Captain Rick Smylie saw the large amount of fire coming from the garage, and thought that a quick deployment into the home would be the only way to save anyone inside as well as their property. Captain Smylie and Firefighter/Paramedic Paul Roman advanced a hoseline into the home. Once inside they encountered smoke down the floor and high heat. This slowed, but did not stop their efforts. Engineer Joe Howarth worked hard to keep the water coming, as well as manage about 3 other hoselines. Meanwhile, Truck 6 Captain Mike Chasin, Engineer Tony Aliano and Firefighter/Paramedic Bill Thorn went to the roof of the home. Their first move was to cut a ventilation hole over the breezeway to limit the spread of the fire from the garage to the home. Their next two holes were cut over the residence, making the interior attack crew’s work much easier. As you can see from the pictures, each centerlouver hole released a copious amount of smoke and heat. The

ON SCENE Truck 6 crew got their work done and got down wi thin 6 minutes of climbing to the roof. While Engine and Truck 6 were busy, the rest of the first alarm assignment got involved as well. Medic 6 Firefighter/Paramedics Kyle Kleinschmidt and Josh Royer, as well as Reserve Firefighter Ryan Abell got busy securing utilities and getting exposure and backup lines in place. Engine 7 crew Captain Ed Simmons, Engineer Larry (shorttimer) McKim, and Firefighter/ Paramedic Allen Hazelton took on the RIC and Accountability duties, and Engine 9 Captain Joe Hudelson, Engineer Derek Dozier, and Firefighter/ Paramedic Travis Timmins got the water supply and assisted fire attack. The second alarm response consisted of Engines 8, 12, and 19, Truck 4, Rescue 5, Medic 8, Battalion Chiefs 4 and 6. Thanks all for the quick response and

aggres sive work. Also, thanks to off-duty Chief Ted Kakuris for the amazing photos that accompany this article. The fire was knocked down in about 25 minutes. The garage was found to be the room of origin, although the cause of the fire is unknown. In addition

“Lastly, it’s always good to remember what your role is at the fire, and to ensure that you stay within your assigned duties”

establish a water supply before committing multiple lines to the fire. Communications proved challenging, as it does at every fire. While we all know radio traffic is important, we need to work to make sure we are listening, and keep our traffic concise to ensure that other units can get their messages heard. Lastly, it’s always good to remember what your role is at the fire, and to ensure that you stay within your assigned duties. No matter what your role is, if you receive an order that doesn’t seem to fit the circumstances, it’s important to clear the matter up.

to finding their chihuahua, the residents were pleased that the firefighters were able to recover a large amount of cash the family had hidden in their home. The property and contents damage was estimated to be in excess of $250,000.

Despite these challenges, the firefight went very well. What could have been a total loss ended as a good stop, with some valuable contents saved. While one resident was briefly hospitalized, no firefighters were hurt.

Among the lessons learned and relearned were the need to

Until the next time…

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Narrative By:

Leonard Villarreal Public Information Officer San Miguel Fire Protection District Photography By:

Josh Krimston Engineer-Paramedic Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Protection District

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t is a too common occurrence, but this time it did not end in death. Just before 10 AM members of the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire District responded to the report of a man trapped in a palm tree, in the 5600 block of Sweetwater Road. While the victim could not be seen from the ground Firefighters could hear the man calling for help. Rescue teams quickly raised their truck ladder 40 feet into the air and began cutting away at the palm fronds that had fallen on the 40 year old tree trimmer. Firefighters

ON SCENE must proceed cautiously because any major shift in the palm fronds could cause additional injury. In many cases, trimmers cut the palm fronds above their head but don’t knock them down immediately. After a buildup, the ring of the fronds can slip down over the trimmer and the safety line. The weight of the fronds can be so heavy the victim cannot breath and can asphyxiate. The weight on the safety lines can prevent the victim from freeing themselves or even moving. In total, 14 Firefighters responded to the “high rise” rescue and the victim was carefully freed in about an hour. The victim was transported to Grossmont hospital for evaluation but no major injuries were reported. Fire Officials remind residents that the trimming of a large buildup of dead palm fronds can be extremely dangerous, work best left to professionals. However even professionals need to be reminded to drop the cuttings as they go, so there will be no life threatening buildup.

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ne of the most distressing calls are the ones where obtaining an IV to give life saving medications is impossible, or problematic. Two of these situations are narcotic overdoses, and seizures. In the past the routes were pretty much limited to devices that required “sharps”, unfortunately in some of these situations opening up a needle runs a risk of a “stick” type exposure. With the July changes came a new skill that allows for the administration of two medications, Narcan and Versed. In the case of Versed the IN administration route is limited to seizure activity and severe agitation. In the administration of Narcan it can be utilized throughout the treatment guidelines.

“The administration of tiny droplets across the nasal plexus is a very effective route and provides excellent bio-availability of the medication” Intranasal is part of an emerging treatment route that is finding acceptance within the medical community. The administration of tiny droplets across the nasal plexus is a very effective route and provides excellent bio-availability of the medication. In addition medication blood levels can exceed that of the traditional IM route and is painless to the patient.

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Blood flow to the nasal mucosa. Rate of clearance activity (ciliary activity) • Pathological conditions. Their maybe significant blood flow issues in patients that have has previous sinus trauma or surgery, and chronic cocaine users may have significant damage that may affect the effectiveness. San Diego County protocols allow for the standing order use of the IN route with no contradictions listed. Volumes over 1cc tend to be too much and result in runoff, thus volumes can be split between the two avai aila labl ble e nasal nasa na sall openings. open op enin ings gs.. available Narcan Indication: Symptomatic suspected opioid OD Dose-Route: Adult with RR <12. 2mg IN (SO), MR. In pain management patients 1-2mg IN (BHO) Peds: PDC, IN (SO), MR In pai pain n management m mana anagem gement ent patients pa patie tients nts PDC PDC IN IN (BHO) Versed Indication: Seizures • General seizures lasting =/> 5 minutes. • Focal seizures with respiratory compromise. • Recurrent seizures w/o lucid period • Eclamptic seizures of any duration. Severe Agitation Dose-Route Adult: 0.2mg/kg to max of 5 mg. MR x10” (SO) Peds: PDC, IN (SO)

In addition the IN route is not a sterile technique thus reducing the potential for secondary infection. Given the proximity of the nasal cavity to the CS fluid around the brain, medication may rapidly reach therapeutic levels. But since we’re all not wired the same way their are factors that can influence the effectiveness of this route:

Some of the information for this article was obtained at: http://intranasal.net

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Narrative By:

Monica Zech Public Information Officer City of El Cajon

At 5:15 p.m. on July 9th El Cajon Fire crews responded to reports of a trailer home fire at the Chieftain Trailer Park, located at 187 Ballard, space number 48-B in El Cajon. Upon arrival firefighters found the trailer home well involved. About 15 firefighters had the fire extinguished in about ten minutes. Their quick action kept the fire from damaging other nearby trailers. The trailer home was destroyed, displacing two adults and their four children. The only injury was said to be the homeowner’s hand, which was cut as he tried to fight the fire with a garden hose. He was treated at scene by Paramedic-Firefighters.

ON SCENE Fire investigators say the fire appears to have been caused by the homeowner setting off 16 bug bombs in an enclosed area, with fumes being ignited by an unknown heat source. The fire remains un-

der investigation. Total damage has been estimated at $30-thousand for the trailer home and its contents. The American Red Cross is now assisting the displaced family with temporary housing.

A fire crew from the San Miguel Fire Protection District assisted El Cajon Fire crews in fighting the blaze.

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Narrative By:

Monica Zech

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Public Information Officer City of El Cajon Narrative By:

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At 1035 hrs, on July 2nd, Lakeside Fire crews, with assistance from El Cajon Fire & Rescue, responded to reports of a seven year-old boy with his head stuck in the storm drain located near 10252 Big Cone Court in Lakeside.

Beto Lawler Fire Captain - Paramedic Lakeside Fire Protection District

B1 Photography By:

Rick Sitta Division Chief El Cajon Fire Department

“On the arrival of M1 the child was found wedged in the opening and was being assisted by family members”, states Captain Lawler. B1 (BC Larkin) assumed command and the crews set up cribbing to prevent potential injuries once the concrete was compromised. “We sent Engineer Rob Andrews into the pipe to comfort and monitor the patients status” states Lawler. “We made attempts at lubricating his head and repositioning him, all of which

failed”. The decision was eventually made to break the concrete using hydraulic spreaders. It took approximately 40 minutes to extricate the child using the “Jaws of Life” to break apart and spread-open the concrete and steel drain structure. “It required two hydraulic spreaders working at maximum pressure to break the concrete” states Lawler. Once the child was extricated he was examined by Lakeside Paramedic Firefighters and was found to be uninjured. The child was apparently attempting to retrieve a toy that had fallen into the storm drain when he became stuck.

Photography By:

Nick Nava Ray Trussell Viejas Fire Department

Jerry Daoust Scott Smith Lakeside Fire Protection District

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onths before the 2009 Fire Season began prognosticators had been predicting a significant fire season in the northern portion of the state. While there had been some smaller fires in the region the weather had been working in the favor of firefighters, that was true till the first significant heat wave passed through the state. As soon as the temperatures started to climb the

reports of new fires started stacking up. On the 8 th of August a fire started in the hills east of Santa Maria, CA. Named the La Brea fire, it initially sounded like this was going to be a hand crew and air show fire, but then the strike teams started rolling north towards the fire.

Things started to get complex as new fires began to break out in the Santa Cruz and Livermore areas. On August 14th, around midnight, strike team 6440C was assembled to head towards the La Brea Fire. With BR4, BR18, BR25, BR23, and BR 26 Battalion 1 (Laff) started for the fire. The strike team arrived at La Brea staging in time to be briefed and sent out on their first assignment. “For the first time check-in requested red cards on all the members of the strike team so they knew their qualifications”, states Battalion Chief Laff. Originally assigned to a structural rall ra protection assignment that quickly kly evolved into an assignment on Division on n Lima which was supporting a helili torching operation. With the new assignment came a new work rotation. Originally scheduled to work a 12 hour shift the crew put in 24 hours on the he line before returning to base camp, and nd hopefully a nice rest period. “If your a Strike Team Leader and your Division o on or Branch extends your shift make sure re e work gets back to Plans or your likely to find yourself on the next days IAP”, states Laff. Crews were able to get a late breakfast, and then turn their attention to setting up camp for their first rest period. But

the rest period would have to wait when the strike team was notified to report to demob at 1600 hrs. Not sure of what it meant to be scheduled for demob after one shift the crew soon found out that they were going to be held for a while in camp as an initial attack strike team. Then at 1800 hrs they received their e-number for the Lockheed Fire. The Lockheed Fire had started two days prior to the strike team leaving the county. It was burning in the thick fuels in the area of Bonny Doon. What had started as a 20 acre fire had blown out with surfacing winds and was now making a run towards a number of ccommunities. co omm mu un n nititie ies. s.

““II couldn’t couldn’t have have asked asked ffor a better b tt strike t ik team” t ” states Laff. “Hard working crews that meshed really well.” w ell.” Battalion Ba Bat tal alion ion n Chief Chie Ch ief eff Ron R Ro on Laff Laff a

The strike working T Th e stri st tri rike ke tteam, eam, ea m, sstill titilllll w orkking ing g their thei the heiirr way he w wa ay ay out of the La Brea incident, had just enough time to catch a meal before departing at 1830 hrs for Lockheed. After the run up the coast the crew reported to the Lockheed fire around midnight. The crew was now able to

take their first real rest period. At the 0700 briefing the strike team was assigned to Division X-Ray on a mop-up assignment. But things got interesting when the assignment included putting in a 9000’ hose lay up a dozer line in anticipation of a firing operation. With another nearby strike team assigned to another hose lay, Chief Laff estimates crews put in about 17,000 feet of hose that day. But with a shift in the weather the firing operation was put on hold. With the hose lays in, and the shift coming to an end, the crew reported back to staging for another rest period. During this time there was a significant change in the weather conditions. Now dealing with marine layer, and cooler temps, fire activity slowed. The next morning the crew discovered they had been released to return to San Diego County. After the nine hour drive back to Heartland the strike team was disbanded. “I couldn’t have asked for a better strike team”, states Laff. “Hard working crews that meshed really well.”

During this same period of time a number of major fires occurred in that region of the state. In addition to the La Brea and Lockheed Fires there had been new starts that took out a lot of additional acreage. The Corral Fire in the Livermore area, and the Yuba Fire in the sierra foothills had all impacted resources.

IST Training at National City Fire crews from Coronado, Bonita, National City and Chula Vista gathered at the National City training tower for some technical rescue training. Crews were practicing rope skills that may be used in US&R and confined space type incidents. Photos By: Josh Krimston

Coronado Structure Fire On August 2nd units from the Coronado, Imperial Beach, and San Diego Fire Departments responded to a working structure fire on Trinidad Bend St. in the Cays. The fire displaced a number of adults and children. The Red Cross was requested to assist in finding accommodations.

La Mesa Vehicle Fire On August 2nd E13 (Capt. Manns, Eng Saghera, and FF Provence) responded to a working vehicle fire on Murray Dr. and the #2 entrance to Grossmont Center. On arrival E13 discovered a well involved engine compartment fire with extension into

the passenger area of the vehicle. All occupants exited the vehicle safely. Prior to E13’s arrival an off-duty CALFIRE Captain blocked traffic for arriving companies. Photos By: Sonny Saghera

Grossmont Ave Fire Battalion Chief Ted Kakuris was off duty on the day of the Grossmont Ave fire, but when he became aware of the working fire he responded to the scene with a camera-inhand. With the assistance of his daughter Carly they captured a series of great images. Rare is the opportunity to see the unfolding events in the initial phases of an operation. When we received the images we were overwhelmed with so many good images. On the cover, and in the story, we still didn’t have the opportunity to present some of the better images, so we are presenting them in these two pages.

Strike Team 6440 Charlie: Tour de California We received a bunch of pictures from the crew members on the strike team. We decided to run as many as possible.... Thanks to Jerry Daoust, Scott Smith, Ray Trussell, and Nick Nava for the great images.

Oak Glenn Fire On the afternoon of August 30th, around 1400 hrs, units from CALFIRE (San Bernardino County) were dispatched to Oak Glenn Rd. just north of Yucaipa. Initially found to be in the flats the fire quickly spread to a nearby slope and made a hard run towards the community of Oak Glenn.

Multiple air assets were brought into the fight including the MartinMars and the DC10. Heartland strike team 6440C was relocated from the Cottonwood Fire to the Oak Glenn Fire, and they remain there as of press time.

Fire Chief: Bill Paskle Agency Editors: Brad Rushing - Patrick Dotson

ALPINE

Alpine Runs Alpine has had some interesting and “hot” runs over the past couple of months. To start it off, “17 A” has been quite the hotspot. Last month crews assisted Viejas with a structure fire. Alpine personnel arrived on scene and ventilated the roof and then assisted E25 with extinguishing the remainder of the fire as well as salvage and overhaul operations. The fire was mainly confined to the garage and kitchen area with extensive heat and smoke damage to several other parts of the house. In the recent past few weeks, “A” division was dispatched in the early morning hours to a car fire along Alpine Blvd. The engine arrived on scene to find a fully engulfed Ford Windstar. Colby Ross and Greg O’Gorman were able to make quick knock down of the fire, although the vehicle was a total loss.

A few shifts later, “A” division w dispatched to a vegetation was fire along Interstate 8. There were several starts along the w ffreeway due to a blown radial tire ffrom a vehicle. The crew made a access to one of the fires from A Alpine Blvd. It was approximately ¼ acre in size in medium brush w with a slow rate of spread. Crews p performed a progressive hose llay and extinguished the fire b before it could jump Alpine Blvd. a and damage nearby homes. The following shift, “A” Division w was dispatched to a structure fire. The crew arrived at scene tto find a single story home with h heavy smoke billowing out of iit. The owners of the property sstated that there were no h humans inside the structure; h however, there were two dogs, a cat and a parrot still inside the h home. Crews made access into the structure and found heavy flames in the kitchen area. They made initial knockdown of the fire and as tthey were able to further enter tthe structure, they found one o of the dogs and the parrot ((still inside his cage) that had u unfortunately succumbed to tthe heat and smoke. As a ssecondary search of the house w was conducted, Colby Ross ffound the second dog hiding b below the smoke between a sofa and a wall. The crew w was able to get the dog from b behind the sofa and take him o outside much to the relief of the o owners. They immediately took tthe animal to a veterinarian and w we hope it makes a complete rrecovery. The cat was never ffound inside the structure and it was assumed that he got o out alive. The crew from E19 a assisted with salvage and o overhaul operations as E17’s ccrew ventilated the roof to gain a access to a void space that w was still smoldering. The fire w was confined to the kitchen with some smoke and heat damage to the living room area. The origin of the fire was determined to be a cardboard box that was on top of the

stove. Investigators believe that one of the dog’s had probably jumped onto the stove and hit one of the burners turning it on. In addition to the fires, “A” Division did have another very interesting call. They were dispatched to a residence along Dehesa Rd. for an unknown medical. As they arrived and met with the reporting party, he stated to them that for the past 15-20 minutes, he could hear someone faintly calling for help in the brush area behind his house. As the crew stood there, sure enough they heard a very faint voice of what sounded like someone yelling for help. Sheriff arrived on scene and stated that they would travel along Dehesa Rd. to see if they could locate any skid marks where someone may have traveled off the road. They also called their dispatch to have ASTREA launched to perform an IR flight of the area to see if they could locate the patient. E17 crews gathered their medical gear and set off hiking through the brush and poison oak to locate the patient. Every few minutes, they could hear the voice yelling for help. As the crews yelled back to try and ascertain the location of the patient, they got no response. As E17 crew continued their hike, the voice became louder, yet still no response from the patient when crews yelled back to him. After hiking for approximately ¼ mile, the crew came upon another residence. The yells for help they were hearing turned out to be a goat that was tied to a tree in the yard. Sure enough every few minutes, the goat would baaaaaaaaaaaaah. Although up close it didn’t sound like help but form far away it certainly did. Crews did get a good laugh though. As “A” Division was getting the fires, “B” Division had been getting some interesting calls. In the late evening hours, the engine was dispatched to a vehicle accident. Crews arrived to find a vehicle that had gone off the road and driven through a power pole. The driver had self extricated himself and only sustained minor injuries. SDG&E was called to replace the power pole and return power to the residences in the area. On a separate accident, E17 was dispatched to a vehicle that

went down the embankment at the off ramp on I8 EB at the Willows Rd. exit. Crews arrived on scene and found the two occupants of the vehicle. One occupant had unfortunately perished in the accident. The other occupant sustained moderate injuries and will make a full recovery. At approximately 2 A.M., “B” Division was dispatched to a patient having difficulty breathing on Anderson Rd. Dispatch notified E17 that there were several individuals who had gone out offroading and that they would meet them on Anderson Road to direct them to the patients location. As the engine met up with the individuals at the far end of Anderson Road, they were told that the patient was somewhere out in the brush down a trail. For those of you who don’t know, Anderson Road is covered with trails that lead from the top all the way down to Peutz Valley Road and the El Capitan Reservoir. The people couldn’t remember which trail it was exactly but pointed in the general direction of where they thought they left him. B7 was requested by E17 to be added to the incident. BR25 was added for additional manpower. E17 and BR25 crew members were paired up with medical gear and each set off on a different trail to try and locate the patient. Air resources were not available due to the weather and time, to assist in locating the patient. Crews hiked for quite some time before finally locating the patient. The patient was found to be in mild status and suffering from an asthma attack. By this time, the sun had started to arise and ASTREA was able to land along a trail to pick the patient up and fly him to an awaiting ambulance. It turned out that the four individuals had set out off roading and then decided that they would hike from Anderson Road all the way down to the Reservoir. This would be an extensive hike as it is quite a distance and there is no direct trail that leads all the way down. They also thought they were hiking to Lake Jennings, not knowing they were at El Capitan Reservoir. The hikers had set off in the darkness with no water, no flashlights and thus no way of knowing where they were, or where they were going. Fortunately in the end, everyone made it out without

injury and the patient was treated and evacuated. “A” Division was not the only shift to get fires this past month though. “B” Division was dispatched to a report of a trash truck on fire on Alpine Boulevard. They arrived and found the truck with smoke coming from the trash area. The operator of the trash truck was directed to dump his load on Alpine Boulevard as crews pulled an attack line to extinguish the fire. The crews were able to knock down the fire quickly. E25 and USFS E47 arrived to assist E17 with the extensive overhaul operations. It took the crews several hours to completely overhaul the trash pile ensuring that it was completely extinguished.

Training: Alpine personnel were able to witness some unique training recently. Agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stopped by the station and asked if they could use the station to conduct some search training for their new search dogs. These dogs are trained to search out weapons and currency. However, they can only find currency in values of $500 or more. The agents hid several large stacks of currency throughout the apparatus bay as well as tissue paper that had gunshot residue on it. The dogs set off and were able to find the currency and tissue papers with ease. Once they located an item, they would sit letting their handlers know that they have found something. Then the playtime begins. The dogs do all of this searching just to be able to play with a rolled up towel. The dogs initially go through a 30 day training process in which to practice their skill. Once completed, they then go through an evaluation course in which they must score perfectly. Once they pass, they are able to be utilized at border crossings to search vehicles entering or leaving the United States. The dogs also go through an annual evaluation in which they must also locate each item without fail to remain as an active search dog. The agents also informed us that the dogs are able to locate items that have been wrapped in plastic, coated in wax

as well as several other ways in which people have attempted to hide things. When the dogs become seasoned veterans, they are able to sense when a person is nervous and notify their handlers. It was extremely interesting to observe the dogs searching for the hidden items within the station and we look forward to them returning to the station to conduct further training. The Alpine Fire Protection District Board of Directors has approved our CERT Program. Alpine will now join the list of communities throughout San Diego that already have CERT Programs. Captain Dotson will be the CERT Program Coordinator and has recently completed the CERT Train-The-Trainer Course at NTC. We will begin gathering the necessary equipment needed for our CERT

Members and hope to conduct our first CERT Academy by January. Look for more details on our website at www. alpinefire.org For anyone interested in CPR, we will be holding a CPR for Healthcare Providers class on Saturday, September 19th from 9am – 2pm at the Alpine Fire Station 17 located at 1364 Tavern Road. Interested individuals need to call and register for the class as enrollment is limited to 20 students. The cost of the class is $17 which covers the cost of your textbook and CPR card. To register for the class, call 619-445-2635. More information may be found on our website.

Take a Hike! Captain Derek Zagarella, FF/PM Mike Hook and FF/PM Jacob Burkard hit the trailhead in the Yosemite Valley on July 27th and hiked approx. 60 miles along the John Muir Trail to Red’s Meadow Campground. This was another beautiful trip despite thunder and gnarly afternoon hailstorms. Because this was during “peak season”, there were many people on the trail during this section. One afternoon the guys were setting up camp at Garnett Lake and realized they were camping next to a group of SDFD FF’s. The next day they passed 2 Escondido FF’s,,,small world huh? The plan is to complete another 60-80 mile section next year. If anyone is interested in coming along, call the station and we can work it out.

FF/PM Jake Burkard, FF/PM Mike Hook and Capt. Derek Zagarella in front of Nevada Falls in Yosemite.

Truck 27 In-Service It’s official: Truck 27 was placed in service on July 20th. We are very happy that this valuable piece of equipment is in service and look forward to working with other agencies within our zone and in Ramona. Barona has never had a truck, so we are enjoying all of the additional training and operational variances that accompany working on this unit. Hopefully we will see some of you on an incident sometime soon.

New Arrival Congratulations to the Loren family: FF/PM Will and Germayne welcomed their son Luke Michael Makana Loren to the world at 0357 hours on August 18th. Luke weighed in at 7lbs, 5oz and was 19.5 inches long. Rylee (their daughter) loves her little brother and constantly wants to hold him or just be next to him. Great job Will and Germayne!!!

Barona Powwow

Will and Germayne with son Luke. (photo by: Tiffany Murrell)

Barona Powwow: The 39th annual Barona Powwow will be held from September 4th to the 6th at the baseball field (behind the Barona Museum). Admission and parking are free. The Powwow showcases Tribal dancing, rhythmic drumming and exciting games for all ages. It also features arts and crafts and offers authentic Native American foods. Native American dancers from across the country will display their talents in competitions for $60,000 in cash prizes. Come on down and enjoy this festive event with us! (Gates open at 6pm on the 4th, 1pm on the 5th and 6th).

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onita Firefighter/Paramedic Sonny Felkins (from right to left) and Engineer/ Paramedic Dan Genvicz, along with Rural Metro Paramedic Troy Duncan and LA City Firefighter Jared Horak pose at the 14,400 feet summit of Mount Whitney.

They were part of a 2-day 8-person expedition up the mountain. “We had great weather, clear skies and a great view from the top,” recalled Felkins. The group hiked 6 miles the first day and camped at 12,000 feet. “Our campsite was at the edge of Constellation Lake,” added Felkins. “We had the whole place to ourselves and got a great night of sleep for the next day’s summit.”

Bonita Safety Center Members of the Bonita Fire Department, along with community leaders and kids from Camp Museum pose during a flag raising ceremony at the Bonita Safety Center.

Surfing in Bali Firefighter/Paramedic Goie Cosca recently returned from a surf trip to Bali, Indonesia with his fiancee, Vicky. “I have wanted to go to Bali for a long time,” explained Cosca. “Finally, an opportunity arose and I jumped on it.” While in the town of Seminyak, Cosca gave his favorite surfboard to a local beginner surfer. “He told me that he had broken his board a year ago and it would take him at least three more years before he could save up enough money for a new one.” Way to represent!

Fire Chief: John Traylor Agency Editor: Darren Hall - Larry Hogueisson

CORONADO

Meet Captain Jim Blinn By Probationary FF/PM Larry Hogueisson Here in Coronado, we have a Captain on board who just passed his 35 year mark in the fire service. Being such a major accomplishment and milestone, I feel compelled to take this opportunity and share some things about this extraordinary man and his career. Captain Jim Blinn’s interest in the fire service began really as he was growing up, back in the New England states. His father was a Fire Department Chaplain in a few jurisdictions. This gave him his first taste of the fire service. When he tuned 18, he joined the Navy, which brought him to Coronado. After his 4 year tour, he returned to Carmel, New York, where he became a volunteer Firefighter. He knew then, that his life’s goal was to become a Firefighter. After 1 year he decided to return to Coronado where he began my journey to become a professional firefighter. Captain Blinn’s career officially began July 1, 1974 as a firefighter. He held that position for 7 years, then promoted to an Engineer for the following 7 years. He promoted to Captain in 1988. Since then, in addition to being a shift Captain, he has held a temporary position of Division Chief in charge of Operations and Training for approximately 15 months. Captain Blinn was offered the position permanently, but chose to return to the ranks of Captain where he knew his true love of the job was seated.

Captain Blinn’s favorite position has, and continues to be that of Captain. He considers himself a working foreman who enjoys working right along side the crew. Having come through the ranks, for 35 years he feels confident in his abilities to teach, train and perform in all positions. When asked of the most memorable event of his career, Captain Blinn had this to share. Spending a week on the Witch Fire in 2007, and having the chance to not only meet but also shake the hand of President Bush while in Base Camp is something that stands out. “Keeping politics out of it, having the President of the United States show up was a very memorable occasion.” Captain Blinn’s main mentor was one of his first Captains, John McMullen. Captain Blinn shared that Captain McMullen was always a positive influence not only as a friend, but also as a supervisor. McMullen saw potential in Captain Blinn and would strive to push him in directions to make a difference in his life and career. Unfortunately, McMullen recently passed away but he will always remember for his direction.

When asked about his motivation after 35 years on the job, Captain Blinn said it was simple. The love of the profession and the enjoyment of the job is motivation by itself. Period. I asked Captain Blinn about the most positive change he has seen in the Fire Service and in Coronado in particular and he replied it is the concept of customer service. Captain Blinn explained, “Years ago you arrived on scene, did your job and left. Now it’s much more than that, you not only do your job but you try and find ways to make the situation better. I try and use the philosophy of, if this was my Mom or Dad how would I want them to be helped? That translates into a very positive and caring customer service response.” Another area Captain Blinn mentioned is all the community involvement and public education that departments have now. “It is just amazing compared to the start of my career.” When questioned about the changes he would like to see, Captain Blinn shared with me that it’s perhaps what we would all like to see. Staffing and equipment levels appropriate to meet the challenges of increased population and density

would be some welcome changes. Captain Blinn has two accomplishments of which he is extremely proud. The first is still being here after 35 years. The second is being a member of the Apparatus Special Committee responsible for bringing a truck company back to Coronado. Most in the fire community is aware that Coronado recently added truck 37 to it’s fleet. Few are aware that we also have a Mack here in Coronado that we purchased new in 1938. Even fewer are aware that Captain Blinn has ridden on both pieces of apparatus during his tenure here! When asked about advice he would give to anyone just starting his/her career, Captain Blinn said it was simple. “The fire service has a lot of tradition and Family. Learn from it, grow with it and stay focused on your goals.”

In closing, Captain Blinn added simply that he is thankful that he is still “Living the Dream.”

Fire Chief: Mike Scott Agency Editors: Jay Wojnowski - Brandon Farrelly - Eric Edwins

EL CAJON

El Cajon Fire Department Congratulates Two On Thirty Years of Service Firefighter Dave Truttmann and Fire Engineer Larry McKim are pictured with Fire Chief Mike Scott after receiving their thirty-year service awards. Both men are hard working employees and down right good guys. We congratulate them on their outstanding service to our community…now get out! (Just kidding, we love you guys.) BTW, can you guess which one of these guys had a mullet in the 80’s? Answer: Dave “The Hoff” Truttmann

Director: Chip Yarborough Agency Editor: Nikki Lewis

HEARTLAND

HEARTLAND COMMUNICATIONS PROMOTES TWO HCFA Director Chip Yarborough announced the promotions of two key management positions at Heartland on Friday, August 28th. A recent reorganization at HCFA created two new positions; they are Communications Operations Supervisor and Senior Systems Technician. The Senior Systems Technician is responsible for the management of the IT Division at HCFA. Carlos Castillo was promoted to the position of Senior Systems Technician Carlos has been with Heartland since April 10, 2006. Prior to coming to Heartland Carlos worked for The City of La Mesa supporting the City’s network infrastructure and City departments. He has over eight years experience in the government sector and over 11 years in the IT field. Mr. Castillo has a Bachelors of Science in Information Systems from the University of Phoenix, and is currently working on his Master’s Degree. He is a Microsoft Certified Professional. He resides in La Mesa and enjoys playing golf, jogging and traveling. The Communications Operations Supervisor is responsible for the management of the Operations Division, which includes the Emergency Communications Center. Diane McClarty was promoted to the position of Communications Operations Supervisor. Diane has been with Heartland since 1990. Prior to coming to Heartland Diane worked for the City of Turlock in their Police/Fire Communications Center. She has been a Fire Shift Supervisor since 2001. Diane has been an Adjunct Instructor at Grossmont College, teaching in the dispatch academy. Diane has also served in many different capacities as a shift supervisor at Heartland. She lives in Lakeside, and enjoys spending time with family. HEARTLAND UNVEILS NEW WEBSITE WWW.HEARTLANDFIRE.NET On Monday, August 24, 2009 HCFA unveiled their website. It can be found at www.heartlandfire.net. The site is the first at HCFA, and has been needed for a long time. Still in the infant stages, the site will continue to grow with important information for member and contract Agencies at HCFA. The Zone 4 Operations Committee will be utilizing the site to post zone policies and procedures, and the old daily staffing report has now been automated on the website.

HCFA welcomes any feedback about the site and/ or the content. Please contact [email protected] with comments.

Fire Chief: Frank Sotelo Agency Editor: Jason Bell

IMPERIAL BEACH

Imperial Beach Firefighter featured on TNT’s “Wedding Day” Last September, the lens of reality television set its focus on the City of Imperial Beach. Following a nation wide talent search, Firefighter/Paramedic Tyra Moe and her then fiancée, Lifeguard Sergeant Rich Hidalgo, were chosen to receive the wedding of their dreams. The producers of “Wedding Day,” a new television program on TNT, chose Moe and Hidalgo because they were too busy serving their community to plan or afford their dream wedding. Their episode aired on national television the morning of August 8, 2009 Moe stated that last summer they were contacted by a talent scout who saw an article about her in the San Diego Union-Tribune. It was an article highlighting the fact that she was the first female firefighter for the City of Imperial Beach and that she was also engaged. This got the ball rolling, but it was just the beginning. The application process included countless interviews, telephone calls and emails. Once Moe and Hidalgo reached the final selection process, the cameras arrived at the Station 39 the rest is history. Now how do you surprise a couple that is supposed to be on duty that day and tell them that they have won the wedding of there dreams? Easy, after all, this is Hollywood. Anxiously awaiting their arrival, the apparatus room floor was filled with their family, friends and co-workers. The “official story” was that they were going to have a meeting with Public Safety Director, Frank Sotelo, as part of the selection process. What they didn’t know was that in just a few short moments, they would be filling a chartered bus with family and friends and be wisked away to Maui for a beachfront wedding. One that was beyond anything they could have imagined. “As we walked in front of the station, the doors started to rise. The sight of screaming, laughing, smiling, jumping friends and family really, really shocked me,” said Moe. Hidalgo added, “I am one that is not easily duped, so I was definitely a little out of my element.” Following the surprise of a lifetime, Moe and Hidalgo got to sit down with the show’s hosts and convey to them what their vision of an ideal wedding would be. “I sat down with a celebrity wedding designer and had a heartfelt woman to

woman conversation. I didn’t know what they had planned for us, but at least our friends and family would be there,” said Moe. She also added that it was a massive endeavor to place such an important event in the hands of a stranger. It was on to the bus and off to the airport. Accompanied with their family and friends, Moe and Hidalgo boarded a first class flight from Los Angeles to Maui. They both still were in shock. Hidalgo felt humbled when he was watching his loved ones board the plane for Hawaii. He still didn’t think that it all of the day’s events had sunk in. “This experience has been surreal. I am totally floored at this experience,” exclaimed Moe. The group arriv arrived at the hotel in Mau Maui approximately midn midnight, local time whic which was 0300, the next morning bac back here in San Dieg Diego. Exhausted, but excited the gro group turned in for the night, anxious abo about what the mo morning, and the res rest of the week ha in store for had the them. It was an ea wake up call early fo everybody as for th there was much to ac accomplish and in only four days. W While the guests we were working pre feverishly with the preparations, Moe surp and Hidalgo were surprised with their first adventure. Monday morning, they enjoyed a stand-up paddle boarding excursion with Dave Kalama, one of the world’s premier watermen. This took place on the north coast of Maui and while they were out on the ocean, several sea turtles and a pod of dolphins stopped by to visit. “This was my favorite alone moment with Rich,” said Moe. “It was truly spiritual to glide across the waves in such a state of peace. And to see each other experience this same thing and the exact same second was magical. We didn’t get a lot of alone time together, so we had to make every moment count.”

Moe added that they each had escorts around the island to make sure that certain things were kept a surprise. The rest of the week had the guests creating decorations for both the reception and ceremony. In addition to packing in several adventures, there were the traditional pre-wedding duties that had to be accomplished. Moe felt totally floored at the whole experience. However, it all set in when she was dress shopping. “It wasn’t dress shopping for your everyday dress. This is for my wedding… like, MY wedding,” exclaimed Moe! The rehearsal dinner was set at the Haiku Mill which was a nineteenth century sugar mill. It was ornately decorated with native flowers, elegant canopies and several ice sculptures. This even included an ice bar. Live ukulele music was played

stepped out of the limo she was trembling. She also knew that the day had arrived for her dad to pass her off and for her to begin the next chapter in life. “I just wish that everybody could have known how I felt. I felt so beautiful from the inside out,” said Moe. The moment had arrived and Moe and her father passed through the gates to the awaiting ceremony. In fact, the bamboo gates were constructed by both Tyra and Rich’s fathers. This was one special gift that they could give to put a personal touch on the wedding. “It was so important for me to help on this gate. It is such a symbol of the transition in Tyra’s life,” said Tyra’s father, Doug Moe. The wedding ceremony was every bit of what they had dreamed about. It was held at a private oceanfront residence

were captured by photographers and placed on a surfboard which lined the walkway. The hanging orchid chandeliers which the bridesmaids and bridesman created were hung from the ceilings of the dining cabanas. It was an evening that kept surprising them everywhere they turned. The gift of a surfboard, which was artistically created by world-renown artist Drew Brofy, was skillfully hung over the dance floor of the reception. The artwork on the surfboard comprised of events that had transpired over the past week. “It symbolized everything that was important to us, said Moe. Additionally, Brofy included a portrait of the Hidalgo’s dog, Seppo. This surfboard currently hangs in their house. To top it off, 2 time Grammy nominated artist Riya Taya Helm performed “The Traditional Hawaiian Wedding Song” for Rich and Tyra’s

by local musicians and they even had a surprise from all the way back in Imperial Beach. It was arranged so that Chief Sotelo could be there and present them with their 1 year anniversary gift from the television show, a 1 week expense paid trip to Hawaii. Now Rich and Tyra, just make sure you get your vacation request forms signed! The morning of the wedding, both Moe and Hidalgo awoke with a feeling of excitement and anticipation of what would lie ahead. Moe indicated that when she

about 500 feet from the reception site and provided the absolute perfect setting with palm trees and waves crashing in the background. “When Tyra’s father gave his daughter to Rich, the love that was there, her eyes twinkling with happiness, was so overwhelming,” said bridesman Allen Hazelton. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds made their way to the reception at the Olowalu Plantation. Their entrance took them past a photo history of the previous week. Various moments

first dance as husband and wife. “Riya Taya singing the Traditional Hawaiian Wedding Song for Tyra and I, at our wedding, for our first dance was unimaginable. It was one of the most beautiful moments, I’ve ever had,” said Hidalgo. Following the wedding it was back to work keeping the public safe for both Mr. and Mrs. Hidalgo. This was an experience that superceded anything they could have imagined and are greatly appreciative that they were selected to have the wedding of their dreams.

Name: Mark A. Cisneros Agency: Imperial Beach Fire Department Current Rank or Position: Fire Captain How long have you been in this field of work? Twenty-five years, eight months, seven days, and this morning. How long have you been with your current employer? Twenty-four years, nine months, seven days and this morning. What town and state were you born in? Los Angeles, CA. What do you consider to be your hometown? The Cajon Zone, since 1977 to 2008

Trash man, so I could work-out and build big arms…. They use to lift the trash cans by hand in the OLD DAYS. Both jobs provided plenty of trash to last a career. The Job search person said the City wasn’t hiring for that position, but San Diego was starting a Fire Academy. I waited in line to sign–up for the academy for nine days; some people waited twelve days…. In January 1983, I was three days past my nineteenth birthday and in the academy. I was working as a Fireman for I.B. by twenty. When not at work I like to? Work, I like getting paid to be an EMT from other people and make more money to use at Barona. I never lose money… I know exact which slot machine I put it in. What are some things you always wanted to try? Travel, Enjoy life, and have enough money to never have to ask the price of anything.

What High School did you attend? Granite Hills High School Class of? 1982 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Fireman of the year – 2007 1st year for IBFD, / Fire Officer Cert., / EMT before D&C in 1983, / CERT Instructor- when it was COOL? / DMV Employee-Driver Certifier / San Diego’s 6th Basic Fire Academy-1983, California Department of Forestry 6-day Wildland Academy-1983, / High school graduate 1983, / Greenfield Middle School-1978, / and Pre-School to 6th grade in the Los Angeles public education system where I learned to play a mean Violin in the heart of East LA. Tell us something about your family? They died too soon! Mom in 1990-I was 26 years old, Dad in 1993- I was 29, 1st brother in 2000- I was 36, and my oldest brother in 2003- I was 39 years old……I miss them so much, but if they had to go, I’m thankful to be last…. I did meet a lady (Renee Marshall) with two daughters in 1995, and have been engaged for fourteen years, raising the kids from five years old to nineteen (Heather Marshall) and eleven years old to twenty-five (Trisha Marshall) I love them with all my heart. How did you get interested in this career? I was looking for a career out of high school and thought of being a Cop, but I was too young to carry a gun…. Then I wanted to be a

List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? With the month, I was at the station late, off duty, and a woman knocked on the kitchen window to get my attention. She said she wanted to give up her two hour old baby to the fire station. It was my first experience with the Save Surrender Baby Program and it will stay with me for the rest of my life….. I haven’t had the joy of an infant of my own and probably never will so there’s emptiness in my life….. Love your kids, and see them with the loving eyes that you had when you first laid eyes on them. Ten years from I would like to be? Enjoying my 3% @ 50 for five years and three month and tell stories of how it was when I was a kid. This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I love the LORD and feel that we are here in this moment for a purpose… HIS purpose and to HIM we are just a TOOL. Don’t think so highly of yourself, that you won’t reach out to everyone in need. Our best day is usually someone’s worst nightmare. What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Remembering why you wanted to be a firefighter, and living it on and off duty.

Name: Phil A. Joseph

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Agency: Imperial Beach Fire Department

When not at work I like to? SURF ; play with my dog ACE

Current Rank or Position: Engineer for 22 years. What do you consider to be your hometown? Encinitas, CA

What are some things you always wanted to try? Get rich!

How long have you been in this field of work? 27yrs.

List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? A lady had her hand down the garbage disposal and couldn’t remove it even with soap and butter. So Ernie reaches for the switch like he was going to turn on the disposal and she pulled her hand right out of there in 2 seconds.

How long have you been with your current employer? 25yr What town and state were you born in? Lafayette Indiana; Hoosier Daddy? What do you hometown? San Diego

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What High School did you attend? Torrance High; Tartars Class of? 1978 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Three degrees in fire science. Tell us something about your family? Married 24 yrs with 2 kids in college. How did you get interested in this career? Looking for something exciting (still

Ten years from I would like to be? Traveling the world. This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I wanted to either be a roller derby star or a garbage man when I grew up. What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? The quality of calls is way down ;people call 911 for problems that do not require an ambulance .

Name: Jason Bell Agency: Imperial Beach Fire Department Current Rank or Position: Firefighter/Paramedic How long have you been in this field of work? 11 years. How long have you been with your current employer? 6.5 years. What town and state were you born in? San Diego, CA What do you consider to be your hometown? Oceanside, CA What High School did you attend? Vista HS Class of? 1996 List some of your other educational accomplishments? I am currently finishing up my BS degree in Fire Science Administration. Tell us something about your family? I am getting married Labor Day weekend. How did you get interested in this career? What little kid didn’t want to be a fireman after watching Johnny and Roy? When not at work I like to? Attend Padres’ games, despite their record. What are some things you always wanted to try? Skydiving and scuba diving. List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? My crew and I were involved in the successful rescue of 3 teenagers who jumped off the pier in the middle of winter with high surf and water temps in the upper 50s. One of the teenagers who was rescued later became one of our Jr. Lifeguards.

Ten years from now, I would like to be? The owner of a very successful vineyard. “Hey Jason, wake up!” This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I have been to the original Hofbrauhaus in Munich as well as the one in Vegas. What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Providing the same level of service to the public with less revenues. Consolidation may be the answer, but it will take a concerted effort by all agencies, not just a handful.

Name: Patrick Spears

Ten years from I would like to be? An engineer.

Agency: Imperial Beach Fire Department This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I got into the profession a little later in life than most. Only as old as you feel.

Current Rank or Position: Probationary Firefighter/Paramedic How long have you been in this field of work? 3 years How long have you been with your current employer? 9 Months What town and state were you born in? Newport Beach, CA What do you hometown? Tustin, CA

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What High School did you attend? Foothill High Class of? 1988 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree from SDSU Tell us something about your family? Father is a Police Officer and Mother a Nurse, sister a teacher. How did you get interested in this career? Found my passion. When not at work I like to? Surf, beach volleyball and be with wife and son. What are some things you always wanted to try? Skydiving, scuba, hike John Muir Trail, own a Jeep. List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? Structure fire yesterday morning. First on scene with the nozzle, booya!

What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Funding shortages: leading to agencies not getting paid for strike teams which lead to less units being dispatched…

Fire Chief: Dave Burk Agency Editor: Scott Springett

LA MESA

New Truck in La Mesa by Sonny Saghera, PIO The City of La Mesa is the proud new owner of a brand new 2009 Pierce Quantum 100’ Aerial Platform Ladder Truck. In early September, the Pierce Quantum will go into service as Truck 11. The truck will be replacing our 1987 LTI 100’ aerial. It will be stationed at La Mesa Fire Station 11 on Allison Avenue. The Pierce features a 100’ aerial basket. It is 12’6” in height and has an overall length of 47’3”. It weighs 75, 800 lbs. It is powered by a Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine that produces 515 HP with a top speed of 59 mph. Aside from the technological advances our new truck offers, the main difference between the 2009 Pierce and our 1987 LTI is the new truck does not have a water tank or pump. This allows for more compartment space for specialized equipment. The 2009 Pierce also features a 2000 GPM nozzle at the top of the ladder. The ladder truck will also be carrying ground ladders including: (2) 35’ extension ladders, (1) 28’ extension ladder, (1) 20’ straight ladder, (1) 16’ roof ladder, and (1) 14’ attic ladder. It is a closed cab with seating for four firefighters, and features air bags, anti-roll protection, and a rear back-up and side blind spot camera. It will also carry new Holmatro extrication equipment. A special thanks to our apparatus committee: Division Chief Mike Carlin, Captain Todd Nelson, Engineer Howard Gunter, Engineer Chip Tidball, and Engineer Brent Baum for their numerous trips to Appleton, Wisconsin and their hard work over the past two years on getting us this truck.

Fire Chief: Mark Baker Agency Editor: Chuck Palmore

LAKESIDE

Lakeside Firefighters Update Low-Angle Skills Over time the Lakeside Fire Production District has been working on better, and faster, ways to get crews into inaccessible areas. The community of Lakeside is surrounded by roadways that present significant “over the side” problems, and on more than one occasion crews have faced access issues in excess of 200 feet. Over time equipment purchased have been made to speed the process of getting crews down to these victims. Included in these purchases was a set of 500’ ropes, and commercial “low angle harnesses” that have significantly improved speed and accessability. For the August Field Care Audit, Firefighter-Paramedic Eric Stamm used the opportunity to review these essential skills. Problematic to most technical rescue program is “recent training”. Over time skills degrade, or an array of different methodology is introduced, thus slowing rescue operations. The core purpose of the August training was to assure that crews were utilizing

similar skill sets that so crews could effectively work together effectively no matter the configuration of personnel. One operation decision that is important that the priority placement at the scene goes to R3. The rescue unit was specifically ordered with high anchoring points to facilitate low-angle rescues, thus it’s important to get the unit right above the patients location. Also to speed operations much of the equipment has been pre-assembled so that its ready to go when pulled from the bag. The operational priorities of the Lakeside system is: • • • •

Firefighter-Paramedics Josh Wilson, Matt Buzzell, and Bryan Peters practice patient lashing.

Division of labor to speed crews departure to victims. Priority to getting ALS personnel to victims. Effective development of mechanical advantage. Quick removal of the patient.

Another important discussion was about “risk vs. benefit” when using helicopters for these types of rescues. “There is no such thing as a totally risk free hoist operation, so you really need to have a reason to use this method” stated Firefighter Stamm. Patient status should dictate the system used for the extrication, keeping in mind that “nothing happens fast with rope systems”

Congratulation Joe and Christine Congratulations to Joe Vasquez and his beautiful bride, Christine. They exchanged vows on May 15th in front of many friends and family. We wish for our brother and his new wife many years of happiness and joy

Congratulations Chris and Emily On August 1st Chris Downing and his lovely new wife Emily, tied the knot in Mammoth Lakes CA. They promise a huge party closer to home real soon for all of us to help them celebrate (hint). Good luck and best wishes from your Lakeside family.

Name: Chuck Tockstein Agency: Lakeside Fire Protection District Current Rank or Position: Battalion Chief How long have you been in this field of work? 25 years How long have you been with your current employer? 22 years

List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? There are a whole bunch, the Cedar Fire, participating in the Space Shuttle recovery, responding to Hurricane Katrina, but the two that stand out the most are probably the Santana shootings and the electrocution that Ron Laff and myself responded to as paramedics at the Lake Jennings SDG&E sub-station years ago. Ten years from I would like to be? Retired and traveling around the Country and generally bugging my daughters.

What town and state were you born in? La Mesa, Ca. What do you consider to be your hometown? Lakeside What High School did you attend? El Capitan H.S. Class of? 1981 List some of your other educational accomplishments? My favorite was the two weeks that I spent at the National Fire Academy. Tell us something about your family? I have a fantastic wife and three daughters that I am very proud of. How did you get interested in this career? My father was a firefighter for the City of Santee. When not at work I like to? Work around the house, BBQ for family and friends and take vacations. What are some things you always wanted to try: Going to Australia to fight fires.

This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I am very boring and according to an old cranky and crusty Engineer that used to drive for me I have no personality or sense of humor. What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? The fiscal challenge of providing the taxpayer with the service they deserve while our revenues decrease. The challenge of recruiting, training and retaining the type of individual that we want to represent my organization and the Fire Service in general.

Name: Scott Culkin Agency: Lakeside Fire Department Current Rank or Position:: Captain / Paramedic How long have you been in this field of work?: 22 years How long have you been with your current employer? 21 years What town and state were you born in? San Diego, CA What do you consider to be your hometown? Lakeside, CA What High School did you attend? El Capitan Class of ? 1978 Tell us something about your family? I have an awesome wife (Julie) and two terrific children, Colin (12) and Hannah (10). How did you get interested in this career? I’ve been around the fire service for most of my life. My father was a Lakeside firefighter for 27 years, retiring as fire chief in 1992. I consider it an honor to follow in his footsteps with one of the best fire departments in the county. When not at work I like to? Travel, teach, road bike, hang with the family. List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? In May 2006, 0300 hrs. first-in on a wellinvolved structure fire in middle unit of two-story occupied condominium complex. It was amazing to see what well-trained and highly motivated firefighters can do when they kick it into

high-gear! It was also an affirmation of the exemplary auto-aid system we rely on here in Heartland; truck 4, engine 4, engine 19, engine 8 definitely had Lakeside’s back on this one! Heartland firefighters saved a ton of property that morning. Ten years from I would like to be? Pondering retirement from the fire SUV. This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I am really good at getting a “letter to the editor” printed in the newspaper! What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? The continuing assault by some on the “public employee.” We can not let others define our worth to society. If we do, we risk losing the hard-fought and welldeserved benefits it took us so long to attain.

Name: Ian Lowe Agency: Lakeside

When not at work I like to? Apparently make babies and change diapers. Other than that I try to squeeze in a surf session and an occasional desert trip to ride motorcycles.

Current Rank or Position: Chauffer/Paramedic How long have you been in this field of work? 11 years

What are some things you always wanted to try? Learning to play the drums.

How long have you been with your current employer? Almost 9 years.

Ten years from I would like to be? Hopefully promoted to Captain.

What town and state were you born in? San Diego

This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? Deep down inside I have always wanted to be a player in the NBA. They have always told me I don’t have what it takes, I have no clue why someone would say such a thing.

What do you consider to be your hometown? Mira Mesa What High School did you attend? Scripps Ranch High School Class of ? 1997 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Associates in Fire protection Tech, ParaMedic School, Fire Officer Cert Tell us something about your family? Married to the lovely and talented Anna Lowe with two kids. My daughter Avery is 2 and my son Owen is 1. I also have a Bullmastiff and her name is Frances. She is 4 in case you were curious. How did you get interested in this career? After high school I did not know what to do with myself since I really had no special skills to speak of, so I took advice from a friend to pursue a career in the fire service. Seemed pretty neat at the time since professional Partier was not paying the bills. Now here I am driving a fire truck for a living. I guess it worked out pretty well.

What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Getting those that are maxed out to retire.

Name: Steve Russo Agency: Lakeside Current Rank or Position: Firefighter/Paramedic How long have you been in this field of work? 14 years How long have you been with your current employer? 8 years What town and state were you born in? Los Angeles, CA What do you consider to be your hometown? San Diego What High School did you attend? Mount Miguel Class of ? 89’ List some of your other educational accomplishments? Medic school took it all out of me. Tell us something about your family? I have a wonderful wife of 18 years and 2 “children”, Daughter 19 and a Son 17. Yes, I am that old. How did you get interested in this career? Watching Johnny and Roy When not at work I like to? Not at work??? Huge music fan, going to concerts, writing and recording music, Glamis or anyplace there is sand to play in, Traveling, and just spending time with my family........Believe it or not, I do go home.

What are some things you always wanted to try? Riding on a Fire Engine. List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? There is way too many to think of. For some reason I attract ALL the strange calls, see Brian Moore. Ten years from I would like to be? Off the medic unit. This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I played Drums in a Disco band and a few Death Metal Bands. What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? 911 ABUSE!!

Name: Nathan Fox

What are some things you always wanted to try? Catfish Noodling.

Agency: Lakeside

How long have you been in this field of work? 15 years

List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? This one time I got to drive the medic unit code 3 to Sharp Memorial like a real medic. The other specific call that stands out in my head is the Cedar Fire.

How long have you been with your current employer? 7 years

Ten years from I would like to be? Hopefully promoted and getting ready to retire healthy.

What town and state were you born in? La Verne

This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I love lamp…

Current Rank or Position: Firefighter

What do you consider to be your hometown? La Verne What High School did you attend? La Verne High Class of ? 1992 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Rescue systems 1 and 2, some fire science and fire officer courses. Tell us something about your family? Married one year with 2 dogs. A rat terrier and a doberman. How did you get interested in this career? Couldn’t cut it as a professional snow-boarder because I was too old and slow. This seemed like the next best thing. When not at work I like to? Plan out how I am going to finish all of the prerequisites for paramedic school.

What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Paramedics

Name: Brian Moore

What are some things you always wanted to try? Doing a VIP ride with the United States Navy Blue Angels.

Agency: Lakeside Fire Current Rank or Position: Firefighter/Paramedic (mostly a Paramedic) How long have you been in this field of work? 8 years. How long have you been with your current employer? 5 years What town and state were you born in? Lakeside CA What do you consider to be your hometown? I live in Alpine but my heart will always belong to Lakeside. What High School did you attend? Granite Hills

List a call, incident, or patient that stands out in your mind? I was working with my partner Steve Russo on M3 when we got woke up for a structure fire. It was a really good working house fire and we had a great interior attack. When we were mopping up, the crews found dura-flame logs and full gas cans all over the house. The bath tub was full of gasoline, an obvious arson fire. It was not until 3 hours later that Sheriffs found a man in a tiny tool shed in the back yard bleeding with agonal respirations. Ten years from I would like to be? A captain. The truth is that Steve and I will probably be on an off load delay at Kaiser. This is your opportunity to tell us something unique about yourself? I still kind of want to be a cop sometimes.

Class of? 1999 List some of your other educational accomplishments? Paramedic school was all I could handle. Tell us something about your family? Great parents, 1 sister who has 2 beautiful children. I have a wonderful girlfriend. How did you get interested in this career? I always wanted to be a police officer or fireman. I was a Cadet for ECPD when I was 18-20 years old. I got to see the way cops and firemen get treated by the public. It was an easy decision to make. I also really enjoy the medical side, so that made the decision even easier. When not at work I like to? Fish for Calico bass in the kelp, in the winter its Spotted bay bass in the bays. I also enjoy spending time with my family.

What do you perceive as some of the challenges affecting your profession? Budget crunches, and in service training with the constant call volume increase.

Fire Chief: Roderick Juniel Agency Editor:

NATIONAL CITY

National City takes Delivery of a New Truck Story By: Captain Don Miner The National City Fire Department took delivery of their new state of the art 2009 Pierce 105 ft aerial quint. This particular apparatus was on display at the recent Firehouse Exhibition in Indianapolis. National City applied for and was awarded with a grant for a new apparatus purchase. Management analyst Walter Amedee wrote the grant and an apparatus committee comprised of Captain Brian Krepps, Engineer Jeremy Day and Firefighter Mike Christiansen did the research and recommended this truck. The grant offset the cost of the apparatus by about 25% of the total cost. This apparatus makes the third Pierce purchased by the National City Fire Fire department in the last 5 years. Even in these difficult economic times, the Fire Department and City Government realized that it was time to replace the aging and heavily used Central States 75 ft quint aerial truck. The additional factor in the purchase was the high rise growth of the city and the need for an aerial apparatus with greater reach capabilities. Behind the City of San Diego, National City has the highest number of high rise buildings in the county and more are planned. National City provides automatic aid with truck 34 to the cities of San Diego, Chula Vista, Bonita and Coronado.

Fire Chief: August Ghio Agency Editors: Leonard Villarreal - Kevin Clark - Nick Williams

SAN MIGUEL

New Arrivals at San Miguel Fire

Congratulation to the Durrell and Rhodes family on their new arrivals Bailey Grace Rhodes was born on Sunday, June 28, 2009 at 12:04pm at Kaiser Foundation Hospital in San Diego, CA. She weighed 7 pounds 8 ounces and measured 20 inches long. Pictured with her is proud big sister Avery.

Broc Daniel Durrell 3/17/09 at 1:35 AM 8lb 7oz 21.25” long

CLARK FAMILY NEEDS YOUR HELP!! On August 13, 2009 my family and I received a disturbing phone call. We were being advised by my wife Sue’s Dad that our 7 year old nephew Ridgway Miller was just diagnosed with a very aggressive form of Leukemia. Ridgway had been experiencing flu-like symptoms about two weeks prior to the diagnosis. Ridgway’s mother Sherie noticed he was not getting any better and chose a second opinion. Based on that second opinion and blood tests, it was determined that Ridgway had Leukemia. By that afternoon, Ridgway had been admitted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, since they live in Ohio. The next day the doctors began aggressive chemotherapy which will continue for at least 30 days in the hospital. The doctors also predict over three years of ongoing treatment at home. As of now, Ridgway is well on his way in his chemo treatment arena. It will take some time to determine the outcome of this first round. With that being said, we are not sure of the chance or need for a bone marrow transplant. However, as we Firefighters like to say, it’s better to be proactive than reactive so here is something you can do. If your schedule allows, on Saturday, September 19, 2009 we have put together a Bone Marrow

TESTING DRIVE for RIDGWAY September 19th, 9AM to 3PM San Miguel Fire Station #19 1273 Clarendon St El Cajon, CA “Behind the Vons”

Drive in Ridgway’s name. We will hold it here at San Miguel Fire Station 19 (Bostonia) from 09:00-3:00 p.m. This is a very non invasive test. At the end of this publication is additional information. The quick version is just a swab from your cheek with a Q-tip and filling out some minor paperwork. No blood, no needles or sticks. Just a simple swab in your mouth. You will then be placed in the National Registry to see if you are in fact a match for Ridgway or any other victim of this horrible disease. As a brother in the fire service, I so appreciate how we all step up to the plate for one another. I hope and pray you can please find the time to help out our family. We are used to hearing we save lives each and every day. This is just another great way to accomplish that same task. I appreciate your time and consideration in this matter. If you can’t make it on September 19, maybe you

can stop by your local San Diego Blood Bank and get tested in Ridgway’s name as well. My family and I thank you in advance and appreciate the support shown to us already by so many. Prayers always welcome,

Kevin M. Clark Fire Captain San Miguel F.D Station 19 B-Div [email protected] or 619-992-6589

Fire Safety Free Food Fun Zone Rescue Demos Free Raffle Live Music and More

San Miguel Fire District’s 4th Annual ~ Fire Expo Saturday, September 12, 2009 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Rancho San Diego Towne Center & YMCA

Fire Chief: Mike Rottenberg Agency Editor: Rick Williams

SANTEE

T

he Santee Firefighters Catfish Derby was held on June 13th 2009 at Santee Lakes. This event was free to kids aged 3 to 17 years. Lakes 3 and 4 were double stocked with catfish 2 days prior to the event and the rangers kept everybody off the lake until the start of the derby. Within the first hour we had multiple kids limiting all 5 cats. Participants received a free Santee Lakes Fishing permit, a free raffle ticket, free bait, a free hot dog lunch and a chance at the prizes for best fishing. Lakeside optimist club provided 150 free loaner rods for the kids that did not have

their own gear. The largest cat weighed 2.13 oz and the smallest was less than 1 0z. Hundreds of fish were caught in the first 2 hours. 550 kids registered for the event.

New Medic Units CSA-69 residents will see two new medic units running out of Santee these days, with the replacement of both M4 and M5. Both units’ are F450, XLT, Super Duty chassis’ sporting 6.4L / V8 Power Stroke, Turbo Diesel power units. M4 is all new, while M5 is an existing CSA box on the new chassis. Super Duty means Super Power, Awhhhhh!! Oh ya!!!!

11th Annual Santee Pancake Breakfast Friday, November 6th & Saturday, November 7th 7:00am to 10:30am

HAVE BREAKFAST AT THE FIRE STATION! HOSTED AT:

SANTEE FIRE STATION #4 8950 COTTONWOOD (Corner of Mission Gorge & Cottonwood)

SPONSORED BY: YOUR SANTEE FIREFIGHTERS & YOUR SAN DIEGO SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

*ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT LOCAL FAMILIES IN NEED ADULTS: $4.00 SENIORS 65+ : $3.00 CHILDREN UNDER 10 : $3.00 BREAKFAST INCLUDES: PANCAKES, EGGS, SAUSAGE, COFFEE AND JUICE TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE DOOR OR BY CALLING: THE SANTEE FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 4373 AT 619-456-2340 OR THE SHERIFF’S CRIME PREVENTION UNIT AT: 619-956-4021

Fire Chief: Don Butz Agency Editor: Ray Trussell

VIEJAS

V

iejas crews have been participating in regular inter-agency training with other local agencies. Units from Viejas, Alpine, Forest Service, and Cal Fire have attended the training sessions, which this past month have included low-anglerescue training. Held at the view point off of Interstate 8 just east of East Willows, the training reinforces the systems and methods used to rescue victims that may be located down inclines that are too steep to safely traverse without ropes and harnesses. The location is perfect for simulating the frequent ‘over-the-side’ vehicle accidents that occur along the interstate. In fact, as luck would have it, a couple of hours after clearing from the training, Viejas B Dvision responded in Engine 25 with Forest Service and Cal Fire units to an over-the-side rescue off of Interstate 8 in Pine Valley. There, they employed the same set up and rigging they had just practiced to rescue a victim from a car accident that went off the side of the road into a steep canyon. The victim was quickly retrieved, stabilized at scene, and transported to a trauma center for care.

Probationary Firefighter/Paramedic Scott Sandland just completed his four month probationary exam. Scott is already readying for his 8-month exam, which will be doubly stressful because he and his wife Colleen are expecting their first child at about the same time in January. We wish Mrs. Sandland health for both her and the soon-toarrive baby! Viejas Fire Brush-225, a Type 6 staffed with five personnel, was sent to the West Incident in the Sierra National Forest as a single use resource. As of this writing the rig is still assigned to the incident.

VJS FF/PM Jeremy Felber in gear ready to go.

Scott Sandland taking his probationary test with Capt. Frank Battaglia.

Training, Field Care Audits, Events

CALENDAR

September 11

0830-1130

FCA El Cajon Fire Department Station #9

11

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

16

0830-1130

FCA El Cajon Fire Department Station #9

16

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

16

0830-1130

FCA Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

19

0900-1500

Testing for Ridgway San Miguel Station #19 1273 Clarendon St El Cajon Behind the Von’s. You can park in the Von’s parking lot.

21

0830-1130

FCA Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

22

0830-1130

FCA Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

23

0900-1200

FCA Alpine Fire Protection District Station #17

18

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

12

0900-1200 0900-1200

FCA Barona FCA Fire Department Station #27 Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

16

0900-1200

FCA Barona Fire Department Station #27

19

0900-1200

FCA Viejas Fire Department Station #25

21

0830-1130

FCA El Cajon Fire Department Station #6

21

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

27

0830-1130

FCA El Cajon Fire Department Station #6

27

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

28

0830-1130

FCA El Cajon Fire Department Station #6

28

1315-1615

FCA Santee Fire Department Station #4

29

0900-1200

FCA Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

29

0900-1200

FCA Lakeside Fire Protection District Station #3

October 25

Training, Field Care Audits, Events

CALENDAR

October 30

0900-1200

FCA Lakeside Fire District Station #3

30

0900-1200

FCA Lakeside Fire District Station #3

Firefighter to Firefighter Sales and Services (Contact your Agency Editor for Details)

CLASSIFIED

Sand Toy 2005- Sandcars.net V3SS Car is loaded with extras and has been meticulously maintained. Car is equipped with a 500 h.p LS1 Corvette motor V8. Oil changed after every single trip. 2D mendeola Trans recently gone through With a G-50 upgrade. 930 CV’s with midboard hubs. Power Steering. 4 wheel disk brakes, King Bypass shocks all the way around. Bead locks on all 4 rims. 5 point padded crow belts in all 4 seats. V.H.F Off road radio with 30 programmed channels. 4 head sets with noise cancellation. MP3 adation through the head sets. Back up light 2 LED dome lights, 12V electrical power port in dash. Roof and side panesl lined to match the 4 deep elite bucket seats from racecraft with storage pouches. Wing Trunk, fantasitc graphics. Rear tire 16.50 Sand Tires Unlimited. Light Bar that is collapsible with 4 eagle HID’s. More pics upon request. Call Kevin Clark 619-992-6589 or [email protected] Asking $52,000 or best. Maint records also avail.

Ford F150 Truck 2000 Ford F150 XLT, Extra Cab, 5.4L Triton V8 4X4, Automatic, 114,000 miles, Full Power A/C, Single Disc CD, Tow Package, Looks and Runs Great. One Owner - Call Rick @ (619) 806-1537

Firefighter to Firefighter Sales and Services (Contact your Agency Editor for Details)

CLASSIFIED

IT’S FINALLY DONE! Those of you that know me know I have been working on a small development along the Colorado River near Walters Camp. After 10 plus years, it is finally done! Many of you asked me to let you know when lots could be purchased so I am trying to get the word out now. This project is a gated development with finished lots and all utilities in. It is on the main channel of the river and the area is completely surrounded by BLM land and Wildlife Refuges. We have our own boat ramp and a huge area for hardcore jeeping and off roading. This is a great family area of the river and I will do what it takes to get you a lot if you are interested. Visit my website at www.riodelsol.us or call Doug Naylor (ACP ret) at 619-933-701

BONE MARROW DRIVE INFORMATION COST – IT’S FREE! Signing up on the National Marrow Registry is easier than ever. Typically there is a charge associated with joining the National Marrow Donor Registry. If the drive is not sponsored by a company or organization (and therefore the company pays for the testing) the cost to the donor to sign up on the registry is $52. However, the San Diego office has a private foundation that has been set up to cover these costs for San Diego (and surrounding areas) residents so they may sign up free of charge! This is a huge benefit both to those wishing to sign up as well as the National Marrow Program – especially during these hard economic times. HOW IT’S DONE To sign up on the Registry, all donors have to do is fill out a registration form that covers the following information: 1) Donor’s contact information; 2) Secondary Contact information – this is just in case they move and forget to let the NMDP know, someone we can contact to find them and 3) Personal Health History. Then we go over the form with them to make sure everything is accurate and take a simple cheek swab to get their tissue sample. No blood has to be drawn, just 4 simple cheek swabs. Easy, huh? DAY OF DRIVE NEEDS – based loosely on expecting no more than 50 donors to join Now, our basic needs to hold a drive are 2-3 tables 6-8 ft long and 10-12 chairs. We will bring all the registration materials with us. We can be set up outside or inside, depending on the location. If we’ll be holding a drive outside, we’ll need a canopy to set up to provide some shade. If you don’t have a canopy or can’t provide the day of the drive, let me know and I’ll see if we can get one on our end for that day. PROMOTION If we move forward with holding a drive, I will create flyers that can be used to post up at the office for employees to see as well as handed out as you see fit. We do customize flyers based on details for each drive (i.e. a specific patient focus, location, etc).

EDUCATION I have noticed with my drives in the past that the more education I am able to provide those that we’re trying to reach, the better my chance of having them sign up on the registry on the day of the drive. We use a couple different methods of educating people to the registry:

x

x

x

1.

Education Sessions: I can do a 1-hour presentation with a video and more complete information on the program and how it works. We can do this session prior to your drive – that way the day of, we’re more likely get people to stop by and possibly join. This is a GREAT way to educate people to the registry and get them involved. I would highly recommend this.

2.

If you believe everyone is pretty well informed or if you don’t think the above would work for you, I have attached some educational sheets that provide some good information on why we need additional donors on the registry. These sheets can be emailed out to your employees or I’ve also had people print them out and post them throughout buildings and whatnot. I’m attaching some that I think would be beneficial. Details on the sheets below.

Myths vs Facts – this is a great sheet that answers some of the questions people have and are afraid to voice – I always have this one at all my drives because these are common questions that help to dispel rumors about what donating bone marrow or stem cells is like. Vital Stats – this is a GREAT information sheet that puts the importance of the program in perspective. Even with 7 million people on the registry – we still have 6000 patients every day, Nationwide, that are searching for a match. What’s even more startling is the breakdown of race on the registry and how that affects those that need transplants. Steps of Donation – Now, this is what most people want to know. If I get selected as a match, how are they going to take the marrow or adult stem cells? This sheet answers that question.

QUALIFICATIONS To qualify to be a marrow or blood stem cell donor, you: - Are between the ages of 18 and 60 - Are within 20% of the ideal weight for your height and age set by the NMDP - Are willing to donate to anyone who needs a transplant

ASK ME! I know this is a lot of information to take in, so take some time, read it over and discuss it with friends and colleagues. The sky is the limit… we can do as much as you’re willing to do. Thanks so much and I hope we can make this happen!

Melinda Jacobs Account Marketing Manager

440 Upas Street San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 400-8209 Cell: (619) 666-7890 Fax: (619) 296-5271 [email protected] www.sandiegobloodbank.org

Just the FACTS: Commonly held misperceptions about marrow donation can

MYTHS VERSUS FACTS MYTH: Marrow donation is painful.

discourage some from

FACT: Donors experience no pain during marrow donation, as this procedure

joining the Registry. Let

uses general or regional anesthesia.

us set the record straight.

MYTH: All marrow donations involve surgery.

FACT: Some donations involve surgery and some do not. The patient’s doctor requests either a marrow donation, a surgical procedure, or a peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) donation, which is non-surgical.

MYTH: Pieces of bone are removed from the donor. FACT: No pieces of bone are removed in marrow donation. Only the liquid marrow found inside the bones is needed to save the patient’s life.

MYTH: Donating marrow is dangerous and weakens the donor. FACT: Though no medical procedure is without risk, there are rarely any longterm effects from donating marrow. The National Marrow Donor Program® (NMDP) screens all donors carefully before they donate, to ensure they are healthy and the procedure is safe for them. After donation, the body replaces its marrow within four to six weeks.

MYTH: Marrow donation involves a lengthy recovery.

FACT: Most donors are back to their normal routine within a few days. Marrow donors can expect to feel some soreness in their lower back for several days or longer. They may also feel tired or experience discomfort walking for a short while before symptoms disappear. PBSC donors may have symptoms such as headache, bone or muscle pain, nausea, insomnia or fatigue. These symptoms disappear shortly after donating.

MYTH: Donors have to pay for costs associated with donation.

FACT: Donors never pay for donating. All medical costs are covered by the patient’s medical insurance, sometimes with NMDP assistance. Donors are also reimbursed for travel expenses.

Creating Connections. Saving Lives.

MARROWORG s 1 (800) MARROW-2 National Marrow Donor Program: Entrusted to operate the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program ©2007 National Marrow Donor Program

11021; NOV 2007

Just the FACTS: You can help! Join the NMDP Registry

VITAL STATISTICS Every year, more than 10,000 men, women and children get life-threatening diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma, and do not have a marrow donor in their family. To live, they need to find an unrelated marrow donor whose tissue type matches their own. Patients are most likely to match donors of their same race and ethnicity.

Be the one to give hope to patients in need. There are simply not enough racially or ethnically diverse members on the National Marrow Donor Program® (NMDP) Registry to meet the needs of patients. Currently only a little more than 1.8 million people of the nearly 7 million Registry members are of racial and ethnic diversity.

Getting patients to transplant quickly is often critical. The NMDP is working to overcome barriers that slow this process. More donors of the same race and ethnicity are needed to help patients find matches sooner. We are also working with medical professionals and insurance companies to help every patient receive the transplant he or she needs. If more people joined the Registry, more patients would find a donor.

The NMDP Registry (7 million total)1

Patients who DO NOT receive a life-saving transplant2

100%

100%

Caucasian - 73% (5 million)

90%

90%

Hispanic/Latino - 10% (650,000) 80%

80%

African American/Black - 8% (515,000)

70%

60%

60%

Asian/Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander - 7% (459,000)

50% 40%

African American/Black

83% % 81% %

70%

50%

75% 5%

American Indian/ Alaska Native

61% % 55%

40%

Multiple Race - 3% (180,000)

30%

30%

American Indian/ Alaska Native - 1% (80,000)

20%

20%

10%

10%

0

0 1

Numbers reflect U.S. recruitment activity as of October 1, 2007. Numbers, percentages and totals may not coincide due to rounding. Remainder of the Registry are unidentified.

2

Asian/ Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander Caucasian Hispanic/Latino

Based on searches that did not proceed to transplant within 6 months. Additional patients received their transplants later than 6 months.

Creating Connections. Saving Lives.

MARROWORG s 1 (800) MARROW-2 National Marrow Donor Program: Entrusted to operate the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program ©2008 National Marrow Donor Program

11023; APR 2008