Fire Station #1 Editorial shows bias for Old Southwest Inc.

An editorial in the Roanoke Times Today by Chris G. Muse explains...well nothing really. It showcases his opinion that he wants the new station. If someone came along and said we are closing a fire station and moving it right next door to my neighborhood I guess I would be happy too. If the new station is built Old Southwest will flanked on two sides by fire stations which includes 2 engines, 2 ambulances, and a ladder truck as well as command staff. I just do not understand why Muse needs to write an editorial to the whole city rubbing it in there face that he will be more privileged in the future and have two fire stations.


"Muse is a past president of Old Southwest Inc.

I must admit that I am perplexed by Mark McConnel's essay concerning Fire Station No. 1 ("History, efficiency, safety and cost argue for saving Fire Station No. 1," Sept. 1). I like McConnel, but the mathematical side of his information somehow proves that his point of view is incongruent with my summation. Polite way of my saying, "What?'
First I think too much is being placed on the Old No. 1 Fire Station. While it is one of our most well-known sites it is one of four old stations that will be replaced with modern stations. "

Muse later writes "If Fire Station No. 1 was on fire, Station No. 3 would be called. Let me repeat that. If Fire Station No. 1 was on fire, Station No. 3 would be called. That's funny, right?"

No sir that is not funny. To think that you are so naive to say that a Ladder Company has nothing to do with fire suppression. If you ask any ladderman in the city if they have assisted with fire suppression in the past year they will say yes. Why do you ask if there are other tasks to be done. Well due to minimum staffing of 3 firefighters per truck, there simply is not enough personnel on scene to have pre assigned roles for each firefighter. Meaning that when the first units arrive on scene the incident commander decides who does what.

Here is an example if an Engine, with the usual 3 personnel, arrives first in at a fire and decides to get a hydrant, they will leave the firefighter at the hydrant. Then the engine lays hose to the structure. Once at the structure the driver will engage the pump and hook up the hose lines. The Officer will mark on scene and probably take command since he/she cannot go in alone. If the next apparatus on scene is a Ladder Truck (what usually happens) then the Ladder truck personnel, again 3 usually, will begin their tasks. The driver will set a fan at the front door while the officer and firefighter enter the structure to begin search and rescue. Since there is not a hoseline in the structure yet, they will take one with them. Why? Because you search rooms around the fire, floors above the fire, and floors below the fire. They would not want to be there without a hand line in place. When they find the fire they can put the fire in check while other crews come in to contain and extinguish the fire. Then the laddermen can resume search and rescue.

Another reason why what you say is so abrasive is that Engine 1 did exist until the early 1990's.

The remark that you want to be on the list to buy Fire Station #1 is embarrassing and shows that you obviously have ulterior motives for the Station. This station will never be a private residence or restaurant.

Chris if you have any questions please contact me at FireFleitz@adelphia.net. I would be glad to educate you on what you speak of.

Fire at Weddle Salvage

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to a commercial fire on September 8, 2005 at Weddle Salvage on 13th Street.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 11:34 a.m. and was quickly under control. The response of two Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units & two Battalion Chiefs for a total of 13 personnel were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at approximately 11:50 a.m.
Upon arrival units saw heavy smoke coming from the salvage yard. After further investigation fire crews found a pile of scrap car parts on fire. Fire crews quickly extinguished the fire. The fire was contained to the scrap car parts.
There were no injuries to Fire-EMS personnel or citizens.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage estimates are still being determined.

Fire At Texas Steakhouse

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to a commercial fire on September 6, 2005 at 5025 Valley View Blvd, Texas Steakhouse.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 2:51 p.m. and was quickly under control. The response of four Engines, two Ladder trucks, two Medic units, one Battalion Chief, one Administrative Chief and one Education Information Specialist for a total of 27 personnel were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at approximately 3:08 p.m.
Upon arrival units saw smoke coming from the roof. Fire crews quickly extinguished the fire. The structure was occupied at the time of the fire by twelve people. All occupants escaped the building unharmed. There were no injuries to Fire-EMS personnel.
The cause of the fire was a worker on the roof soldering some copper while doing air conditioning work. The soldering ignited some grease and insulation. The fire started on the roof and was contained to the roof. The restaurant received some water damage. Damage estimates are still being determined.

The following was an account by a firefighter on Engine 10.

"The fire started in the HVAC on side 2 from a HVAC maintenance worker that was soldering a connection and the insulation caught fire. The fire spread into the roof line and through the drop ceiling. We deployed 2 -- 1 3/4" handlines 1 to the roof and 1 interior. We estimate 30,000 total damage 25000 structure and 5000 contents. There were 20 or so occupants. No injuries. On scene was E10, E2, E9, E13, L13, L2, BC2, BC4, ST1, M10, M9, M6, Chief 3, PIO, and Prev 1.

We were on scene about 1 1/2 hours and flowed around 5-700 gallons. We mopped up and helped clean a little. Fire took about 20-25 minutes to completely extinguish."

Roanoke Fire Fighters Association too powerful or not powerful enough

Todd Jackson writes in an article Council opts to keep old fire station the following:

"As the powerful Firefighters Union made its preferences known, Roanoke City Council members got cold feet about closing the historic station...One lesson the council has clearly learned is to pay attention to firefighters, one of the most politically powerful groups in the city. Over the past few years, the council has approved several initiatives firefighters have requested, from retirement improvements to staffing restorations to pay increases. "

I was able to watch the City Council meeting on RVTV yesterday. The turnout of members, speakers, and the support from the community show the City Administration and City Council that we are not willing to roll over on issues that effect us.

It should be comforting to think that the Acting Assistant City Manager and Mayor Harris made a point that they would not stand for retaliation.

Glimmer of Hope for Fire Station #1

Roanoke Fire Station #1, the oldest operating fire station in Virginia, survives yet another attempt by the City to close it forever. Roanoke City Council had a vote to act on today which allocated almost $700,000 more in funding for the new Fire Station/Administration building at Elm and Franklin. The City Council decided during a morning work session to move forward with the building of the new station, however they wanted the consolidation of Fire Station #1 to be taken out of the equation. This came to fruition during the 2 pm City Council meeting where several Council members wanted to make it clear that by voting yes to the additional money, they were not agreeing to close Fire Station #1. The City Manager was asked whether or not the new building plans should be reconsidered to remove the space that was required for Ladder 1 and its crew, which she stated that it would cost more money to revamp the plans and the space might be used in the future for other fire apparatus and crews.

What does all of this mean?

Certain aspects of these decisions might be inferred differently. Certainly both sides won. The Fire Administration gets to move forward with its plans for the new station. The Citizens, Business owners, and Firefighters keep the Historic Fire Station #1 and the services it provides to downtown Roanoke. However what will this mean in the future? Well only time will tell. I hope that the Citizens and Business owners do not forget what the fire station means to downtown Roanoke and that the need for fire protection will always be alive in this area. I can only hope that future City Councils, City Managers, and Fire Administrators do not lose sight of all the hard work and determination that the Business owners, Citizens, and Firefighters put into keeping this station open. It is not all that often that a City agenda gets the amount of publicity, support, and diverse views as this has.

Diesel Exhaust Systems

I have to speak on another issue of Diesel Exhaust Systems which got some publicity at the meeting. I feel this is a necessity in our stations. Mayor Harris would like to see these systems installed in the stations. The Chief made comment about these systems in relation to other departments. He stated that firefighters would use them for the first 6 months and then become complacent in the use of them. I can assure you all that if my station had these systems I would use them and make sure that my coworkers would use them also.

I feel as though our firefighters are not given enough credit for the work that we do and the determination in which we do it. We certainly do not ask for much, mostly just fair treatment and decent equipment to do our jobs with. In the era post 9/11 we have been asked to respond, react, contain, and remedy emergencies that our brothers and sisters before us would not have dreamed about. With the development of Homeland Security and the realization of the public that we are a vital link in first response to acts of terrorism and its secondary emergencies, we have had to train harder and think smarter each day so that we can provide for our citizens in their times of need. Increased EMS responses and mutual and automatic aid into Salem, Roanoke County, and Vinton have provided us with a higher call load, longer responses, and the need to work with multiple jurisdictions. The City has a witnessed increased flooding responses in the past couple years and we have implemented a Swift Water Rescue Team. This team was called out numerous times just weeks after its inception. The Team responded Valley Wide to provide a service to our customers which showcases our steadfast determination in providing the best Fire and Pre-Hospital Medical care in Western Virginia. Our members strive to bring new technologies, training, and special operations to Roanoke City all the while continuing our day to day operations which we pride ourselves on. The Firefighters of Roanoke City are proud of our traditions, history, brothers and sisters, and citizens. We will continue to make Roanoke City the safest City in the State and make our City Administrators, City Council, and Customers proud to have us protecting them.

Roanoke City Fire Fighters Raise $4400 for MDA

Well the total is in and we have raised $4400 for MDA. This beats last years total by over $2000. Thank you for all of the help in raising money. Check out RFFA/MDA for more information as well as the information on our MDA Ambassador Cory Craighead. This young man is certainly a courageous individual. He loves firefighters and looks forward to meeting each and every firefighter in the City of Roanoke. It is amazing that the local MDA Telethon was able to raise over $500,000 (our total included) as well as the local radio stations raising $511,000 for the Hurricane Katrina Relief efforts.

As this year of fundraising for MDA raps up I would like to extend an invitation for you to get involved. The RFFA is currently seeking members interested in organizing next years golf tournament, fill the boot, and MDA Camp Cookout. If you are interested contact me. These events are not all that hard to organize individually, however I have organized all three for the last 3 years and I will be unable to continue this next year. I will stay on as the MDA Coordinator and assist with the events, I just need help with them. If you would like to get involved with RFFA activities this is a great way. I have enjoyed organizing these events and look forward to assisting in the future.

We have several other possible events we would like to put on in the future to raise money for the MDA and other charities like the Burn Camp. Please contact me if you would like to assist in organizing an event.

Fire Station #1....the importance of the issue

In the Roanoke Times today Chief Grigsby weighs in on his determination to build fire station #1.

I guess that tomorrow's Council meeting will speak for itself. Tune into the meeting on Channel 3 at 2 pm.

It will be an unfortunate event for the businesses, citizens, workers, tourists, historians, and firefighters if Fire Station #1 is closed down.

Check out the Roanoke Found Blog for another opinion on the matter.

Two Fires in Roanoke This Morning

Roanoke Fire-EMS was busy this morning fighting two residential fires.

Fire at 832 Marshall Ave. SW 0855 hours.

Engine 3, Engine 5, Engine 7, Ladder 7, Battalion Chief 1, RS-1 responded for a structure fire. Engine 3 marked on scene with heavy smoke and flames showing from the second story. No injuries reported.


Fire at 4533 Thirlane Road NW lot #27 0911 hours.

Engine 10, Engine 2, Engine 13, Engine 9, Ladder 13, Medic 9, Battalion Chief 2 responded for a structure fire. Engine 10 arrived to find heavy smoke and flames showing. The fire was quickly brought under control. No injuries reported. One family was displaced by the fire.

Bedford Fire Department To Send Firefighters for Hurricane Relief

The Bedford Fire Department (Bedford, Virginia) will be sending a task force of 24 firefighters to assist with the Hurricane Relief Effort in Louisiana and Mississippi. The task force will be deployed for a minimum 7 days and will be driving down equipment in tow. The task force is part of BFD's Urban Search and Rescue team that has responded to a couple of calls within the state. This will be their first out of state deployment. The task force is a newly formed team consisting of volunteers. Many of these volunteers are also career staff in other localities. BFD Chief Todd Stone, Captain Brad Creasy, and Firefighter Brad Dinwiddie will be a few of the firefighters responding. These men are also career firefighters with Roanoke Fire-EMS; Stone is a Captain, Creasy and Dinwiddie are firefighters. The BFD task force is planning to head south tomorrow at around noon. They will be accompanied by 4 Bedford Sheriff's Deputies. We wish these men a safe trip.

Will Roanoke Fire-EMS Send Firefighters for Hurricane Relief?

I have gotten about 20 phone calls today asking if the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department is sending personnel to assist with Hurricane Relief. From what I understand the question was posed to one of the top Brass of the Department and answered by stating that we haven't been asked to send anyone so we aren't going to, but FEMA HAS asked for our assistance along with every other Department in the Nation. I certainly hope that this does not reflect the Departments true stance. I do not think that the affected Departments, Governments, Counties, or States are going to get on the phone to call our Department to ask for help. I understand that in times of great tragedies there is a problem with First Responders self dispatching themselves to incidents. The problem with this is the the Locality where the incident occurred cannot provide for the basic necessities of these responders. I realize that the Department is shorthanded as it usually is, but there is a greater cause here. WE are the first responders and our brothers and sisters in the affected areas need OUR help to provide for their Citizens. What if we had a Tragedy that we could not handle? What if our families were affected? What if our families were traveling to other states to find adequate shelter while we stayed to do our job? What we did not have the personnel or supplies to do our job? Then think, what if we called for help................and nobody came. I realize that there are Firefighters, who volunteered to go, from everywhere going to help with Hurricane Relief through FEMA. But what if all of those Departments said "Well they haven't called so we aren't going to do anything".

The fact of the matter is FEMA has asked for help.

The Federal Emergency Management Association has asked for 1000 2 person teams. The only requirements are that the responders are Career Firefighters and that they bring only carry on luggage. The application asks for the Chiefs approval and that approval is just as good as the usual prerequisite of proper certification and International Background Check. I can only assume that the purpose of 1000 2 person teams is that it will minimize the effect of manpower on the offering Departments. Another reason is that 2 person teams will be somewhat on their own, working as a bigger team in unfavorable conditions.

I do not see any reason why our Department has not applied to assist these localities who have experience a tragedy like no other. It is hard to believe that the areas impacted the hardest by Hurricane Katrina are basically "3rd World" now. This area will need assistance for a long time to come. There will probably be a continued need for Firefighters, EMT's, and Police Officers. I will go tomorrow if I was allowed. I know of about 15-20 members of our Department who have said the same. I know that most of the Firefighters in the City of Roanoke would stop what they are doing to go assist. All they are asking for is 2 firefighters. Is that so much to ask for? I certainly hope that the Department will at least send in the application to send at least 1 team of 2 firefighters.

For more information check out FEMA, IAFF, or IAFC.

The Roanoke Fire Fighters Association is planning to collect at least $5 for the IAFF members affected by the Hurricane.

This photo and other photos from New Orleans can be seen at TampaBusiness.com. It kinda reminds me of the County fighting fire. Ha Ha. Just kidding guys............ this one is still standing.

This Day In History Frank L. Ferguson Died in the Line of Duty 1955

Firefighter Frank L. Ferguson was killed when a wall collapsed on him at the scene of a warehouse fire at Virginia Scrap Iron and Metal Company. Ferguson was assigned to Ladder #1 and joined the department August 16, 1955, after surviving several military conflicts in the Korean War and World War II.

Hurricane Relief for the Families of IAFF members

Please check out IAFF Online for information on how you can help the estimated 2000 IAFF members and their families who have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. The RFFA is planning to collect at least $5 from each member for the families. Most of the Local's in the state have already collected this money and some have matched what the members have contributed. Fairfax donated $20,000 for the cause.

Business Community Speaks out in Favor of Station #1

This editorial as seen in the Roanoke Times on September 1, 2005 was written by Mark McConnel. Mark is a member of a Community Committee who got together to keep Fire Station #1 open as it stands now. It is amazing at the response that this group has gotten from business owners, citizens, and activists in support of their cause. If you would like more information contact savestation1@adelphia.net or call 540-344-1742.

Mark C. McConnel

McConnel is the former chairman of the Roanoke Arts Commission, an architect, a planner and spokesperson for Save Our Station #1, a group interested in maintaining fire service in the historic Fire Station No. 1.

Why are we moving firefighters out of Fire Station No. 1 and seeking to build a new station on the corner of Elm Avenue and Franklin Road? A group of concerned residents is seeking an answer to this question and a halt to this direction. Joining this effort are the Roanoke Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 1132, The National Trust for Historic Preservation, The Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation and The Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities. The Roanoke city administration has, once again, made several significant decisions without seeking input from its residents and affected employees.
Fire Station No. 1 is on the National Register of Historic Buildings and is the oldest operating fire station in Virginia (and one of the oldest in America). The National Trust recommends that fire stations be established or maintained in historic districts due to rapid response needed for older structures. The downtown location is preferred because downtown buildings are closer together, older buildings are built with more combustible materials, the population downtown is elevated during the day, and the increase in buildings being built or remodeled for residential use increases the need for a downtown station.
Station No. 1 can accommodate every piece of fire apparatus the city owns and everything we are likely to purchase. A tractor-drawn "tiller" ladder truck is the most maneuverable, tallest and the best choice for a downtown location. Ladder 1 is one of these trucks.
Attachment to the station is not simply nostalgic. We are fortunate to have an operating historic firehouse in a strategic location. If it no longer functioned, there would be no argument, but Fire Station No. 1 is very inexpensive to maintain and requires minimal annual investment of taxpayer money. Roanoke firefighters have repeatedly stated that the station is well located, in good working condition, can accommodate necessary equipment and is a good place to work. Why would the city abandon a fully functioning fire station in the heart of downtown?
In addition to the obvious benefits listed above, Fire Station No. 1 is a working museum that costs the city no additional funds and provides the opportunity for tours to a variety of groups as well as passers-by interested in a piece of Roanoke's history. (It is listed on roanoke.com as a historic site to visit.) The station contributes to the overall character of our city, which translates to dollars invested by people who chose to relocate or open a business here, largely because they love the overall "feel of the place." Why would any city seek to close such an asset? One person, upon hearing that the city planned to close the station, quipped, "Have they been missing the meetings on downtown revitalization?"
The city just spent a considerable sum repairing the historic shell of Station No. 1 -- repairs that should last for another 100 years. Why would we walk away from this money? The new station will cost more than $4 million. In addition to fire service questions, this issue is, at its core, a money issue. The soil at the proposed site is contaminated and is not suitable for residential use, yet the plan is for our firefighters to live there. Is this not a residential use?
Common sense also makes one wonder why we would locate a specialized public service building on one of the prime commercial corners in our city. The investment potential of this corner is high and makes this location far better suited for commercial (tax-paying) use.
The residents of Roanoke are not likely to allow the city to completely abandon the present historic site, resulting in expenses for its continued maintenance. There are no definite plans for Fire Station No. 1 once the station is abandoned, although there have been references to a possible museum. The National Trust for Historic Preservation recommends that historic structures maintain their original operation if at all possible. The trust's data indicate that small historic buildings converted into museums have a very high rate of failure.
The Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities stated that "Fire Station No. 1 is emblematic of the city's dedication to the district. Consolidating these services outside the neighborhood could adversely affect the perception of the city's commitment to downtown and the market area" -- this at a time when the city has decided to pour more than $100,000 on another consultant to discern how to better develop and expand this already successful area.
The evidence clearly indicates that the plan to remove fire service from Station No. 1 is flawed and would result in excess expenditures, less effective fire service and loss of other key benefits for all Roanokers.
Citizens who would like to keep the station in operation are urged to contact members of Roanoke City Council and our organization by e-mail at savestation1@adelphia.net or by phone at 540-344-1742.

Retired District Fire Chief Clayton Dewey Sink Passes Away

Clayton Dewey Sink, 81, of Blue Ridge, passed away Thursday, September 1, 2005. He was born October 25, 1923, the son of the late Edward Sink and stepmother, Flo Sink. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Andrea Vaughan Sink; and his wife of 47 years, Margaret Elizabeth "Libbie" Vaughan Sink. He graduated from Jefferson Senior High School and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, N.Y. and served in the Mediterranean and Pacific Theatres of Operations during World War II. He later graduated from Virginia Western Community College and served in the Roanoke City Fire Department for 40 years, retiring in 1987 with the rank of District Fire Chief. He was a longtime member of Belmont Methodist Church and Huntington Court United Methodist Church. His surviving family includes his wife, Dorothy Constant Sink; stepson and wife, Kenneth and Pamela Vaughan; stepdaughter and husband, Cindy and David Halsey, all of Blue Ridge; grandchildren, Aaron Vaughan and wife, Anne of Floyd, Stephanie Reed and husband, Andy of Hilton Head Island, S.C., Sarah Vaughan of Blue Ridge and Emily Clark and husband, Jim of Hilton Head Island, S.C.; great-grandchildren, Nicole, Lauren, and Hannah Reed of Hilton Head Island, S.C., and Autumn Vaughan of Floyd. Also his half sister, Carol Sue Magee of Windemere, Fla.; and stepsister, Louise Gelone of Roanoke. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 3, 2005 at 12 noon at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel with the Rev. Dick Jones officiating. Interment will be in Sherwood Memorial Park. The family suggests memorials be made to Huntington Court United Methodist Church or the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, Inc. for the Grace Center, 4 North Ridge Dr., Suite A, P.O. Box 23019, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 22925-3019. The family will be receiving friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, September 2, 2005 at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 982-2100.

This Day in History August 31st

On this day in history there were two significant fires downtown. The Phillip Levy occurred in 1928 at 1321 hours 118 W. Salem Ave. The building collapsed at about 1530 hours. FF Ralph Daniels was injured during the fire and taken to Lewis Gale Hospital. One of the fleets 85 ft. ladder trucks was also damaged in the fire. Phillip Levy, which I believe was a warehouse (RoanokeFound?), had also caught fire on October 8, 1927. The building was a total loss during the second fire (picture below).

In the year of 1937 on this day another fire occurred at Thurman and Boone Furniture Store at 718 Nelson Street N.E. at around 0927 hours. I am unsure of any details of this fire and have not found any pictures to date. If you have anything to add please let me know. Also check out the RFFA 1132 Historical Timeline for more incidents.

Phillip Levy Fire

Richmond Ambulance tests "Public Utility Model"

The Richmond Ambulance Authority is testing a new delivery system for non life-threatening EMS calls. The RAA has always been an aggressive organization in relation to new EMS delivery ideas. They have served as host cities for new protocols and new innovations for a while now. As an "authority" which operates the EMS delivery of 911 in Richmond they are testing this new "Public Utility Model".

The new trial basically places nurses in touch with 911 callers to decipher whether or not the "emergency" warrants an ambulance. Richmond operates a prioritized 911 system, meaning that the dispatchers are Paramedics and can give the callers first aid instructions as well as prioritize the call and whether or not an ambulance responds with lights and sirens or not. Now under this new trial model the caller might be instructed to transport the patient to a clinic or get a free taxi voucher to a clinic. You can read more here.

It would be nice to see the Roanoke Fire-EMS work toward prioritized dispatch in the future and maybe even move towards a system like the one that RAA is trying out. I do not think that it is out of the question. I know there are medics out there reading this; what do you think?

Frienship Fire Station

This is a picture of the Friendship Fire Company #3. This is probably the firehouse they used before they moved to 4th and East. This picture would have been prior to 1892 when the new station was built and this station would have been located in the Market area.

Fire Station #1 Postcard

Here is a postcard that was on ebay. I saw that a Roanoke Firefighter had bid on it so I refrained from the bidding. I forgot to check in on the auction and missed that it sold for almost $23 I think. It appears as though the Ex-Mayor Ralph Smith might have outbid everyone to win this postcard. The winning bidder was Rockledge1. If you lookup this user; they sell trailer parts on ebay. However the firefighter did not win it. The last thing that I saw on ebay I refrained from bidding out another firefighter and he won it. $23 for an old postcard of our Fire Station #1. The interesting thing about this postcard is that I have not seen this postcard before. I'm not saying that I'm some old timer who has seen it all, what I'm saying is that I have seen a lot of historical images of the Fire Service in Roanoke and I had not seen this one prior.

Fire at 1802 Memorial Ave.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to a commercial fire alarm on August 26, 2005 at The Village Grill on 1802 Memorial Ave.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 12:55 a.m. and was quickly under control. The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units, one EMS Captain, one Investigative Unit and one Battalion Chief for a total of 22 personnel responded to the fire. The fire was under control at 1:06 a.m.
Upon arrival units found smoke showing and the alarm sounding. Fire crews entered the structure and found a fire in the kitchen area. Fire crews quickly extinguished the flames. The fire started in the kitchen and was contained to the kitchen.
The structure was not occupied at the time of the fire. There were no injuries to civilians or Fire-EMS personnel.
Damage estimates are approximately $7,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fire at 1925 Airview Road

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to a residential fire on August 25, 2005 at 1925 Airview Rd.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 10:00 a.m. and was quickly under control. The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units, one EMS Captain, one Investigative Unit, one Administrative Chief, one Battalion Chief and one Education Information Specialist for a total of 22 personnel were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 10:14 a.m.
Upon arrival units saw light smoke coming from the structure. Fire crews entered the house and found a small pile of bedding on fire in a bedroom and quickly extinguished the flames. The fire started in the bedroom and was contained to the bedroom.
The structure was occupied at the time of the fire by eight people. Two of the residents were transported to a local hospital to be treated for a burn and smoke inhalation. The other five residents were unharmed. There were no injuries to Fire-EMS personnel.
The cause of the fire and damage estimates are undetermined and still under investigation. This house did have working smoke detectors.

Mystery Fire Station

Here is a mystery for you all. I had another photo of this station, however I cannot find it right now. I am pretty sure that the truck says Roanoke Fire Department Engine 10 or with a number 10 on it in the other photo. I will have to do some digging to find it. The mystery is what station is it and where was it. I have a feeling like it might have been a temporary Station 10 maybe on Williamson Rd. I do not know if I heard this somewhere or not. I do not know why there would have been a temporary Station #10. Maybe someone out there could help me out or maybe recognizes one of the firefighters pictured above.

Historic Fire Station #1 sprayed with graffiti

The other night or early morning Fire Station #1 was sprayed with graffiti. Check out the article. It appears as though they got on the roof to spray the graffiti, possibly by the building next door. Anyways I don't want to give the perpetrators anymore attention so check out the article in the Roanoke times for more info.

Captain Mike Armstrong receives the designation of "Chief Fire Officer"

Captain Mike Armstrong of the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department has successfully completed the process that awards him the professional designation of "Chief Fire Officer". The Commission on Chief Fire Officer Designation(CFOD) met on July 6, 2005 to officially confer the designation upon Captain Armstrong. Captain Armstrong is one of only 483 CFO's worldwide!

The Chief Fire Officer Designation program is a voluntary program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven measured components including: Experience, Education, Professional Development, Professional Contributions, Association Membership, Community Involvement and Technical Competencies.

Captain Armstrong has been a member of the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department for sixteen plus years and is currently a Captain at Station 14 on Mecca Street.

Congratulations, Captain Armstrong!

You can see Fire Associates, which is Mike's part time business at Fire Associates Online

Save Station #1

The Local 1132 website has been updated with information on the closing of Fire Station #1. Check out the site, which contains contact information for concerned citizens and business owners. Apparently the City Council will be voting on the new Fire Station on Tuesday September 6th, 2005. Don't let this Fire Station be closed down. Fire Station #1 serves the downtown area as well as a greater part of centeral Roanoke City. The station serves as a historical landmark, working museum, active fire station, tourist attraction, hotspot for field trips, as well as many other roles. This Fire Station is a symbol of the History, Tradition, Honor, and Bravery of all of the Firefighters who have ever worked for the Great City of Roanoke. If you would like more information the email contact is savestation1@adelphia.net.

Fire at 1732 Cleveland Ave.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a commercial structure fire on August 19, 2005 at 1732 Cleveland Ave.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 7:35 p.m. and was quickly under control. The response of four Engines, two Ladder trucks, two Medic units, one EMS Captain, one Investigative Unit, the Fire Marshal and one Battalion Chief for a total of 25 personnel were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 7:50 p.m.
Upon arrival units saw heavy smoke and visible flames at the bay garage doors. Fire crews made an aggressive attack and put the fire out quickly. The fire started in an automobile inside of the building and was contained to the automobile. The structure was not occupied at the time of the fire. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel.
The cause of the fire and damage estimates are undetermined and still under investigation.

Fire at 4642 Nelms Lane

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a residential structure fire on August 18, 2005 at 4642 Nelms Lane.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 9:22 a.m., and was quickly under control. The response of two Engines, one Ladder truck, one Medic unit, one EMS Captain and one Battalion Chief were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 9:31 a.m.
Upon arrival units saw light smoke coming from the structure. The occupant of the home was standing in the side yard and directed them to the kitchen. Upon investigation, fire crews found smoke throughout the first floor and the fire already extinguished. Fire crews then proceeded to ventilate the home. The fire was contained to the kitchen. Estimated cause of the fire was unattended food on the stove.
A smoke alarm alerted the occupant and she was able to escape the home with only minor burns to her hands. She was burned during her efforts to extinguish the fire. There were no injuries to Fire-EMS personnel.
Damage estimate is approximately $4,500.

Fire at 2832 Huntington Blvd.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a residential structure fire on August 19, 2005 at 2832 Huntington Blvd.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 5:55 a.m., and was quickly under control. The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units, one EMS Captain, one Investigative Unit and one Battalion Chief for a total of 20 personnel were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 6:12 a.m.
Upon arrival units saw heavy flames coming from the upstairs of the structure. Fire crews made an aggressive attack and put the fire out. Salvage and overhaul of the situation were effective in minimizing loss. The fire started in the bedroom and was contained to the bedroom.
The house was occupied at the time of the fire. Three residents escaped unharmed. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel.
The cause of the fire was an overheated electric cord. Damage estimate is approximately $35,000.

Star City FOOLS

Here is a plug for the FOOLS. Just to let you all know about them if you didn't already. Check them out at http://www.geocities.com/irons_n_hook/main.html. The local chapter is the Star City Fools. The FOOLS International can be found at www.foolsinternational.com. So check them out. From what I understand they are having a membership drive now. They have email contacts on their site.

Squad 1

You thought I didn't care. Here is a picture of Squad 1 (Oren). I do not know the exact date of the picture, however I believe this is after its heyday downtown. Maybe Captain Yearout can fill us in on what it is doing in front of Station #13.

The Color of Trucks

An update to the Red fire trucks posts. I had an idea about this, however I was not exactly sure. Roanoke Fire Department started with red fire trucks up until the 1918 models were bought. The 1918 model trucks (which were purchased in 1918 and the years following) were grey. The 1950 model trucks (built in that era) were also grey, these include the grey ghosts. I am told that Squad 1 was purchased red. The fire trucks remained grey until ? I am guessing the 70's. At this time the trucks were bought painted yellow. Not the Chesterfield yellow, more of the Henrico lime/yellow. I am not sure of the exact number of fire trucks that were yellow, however it does not seem like too many. Maybe a half a dozen. Maybe someone can fill me in. Then in 1983 the trucks were once again bought painted red. So there you have it. The reason why I do not have much information on the yellow trucks is 1) They weren't yellow long 2) That era was not as historically cataloged as others 3) 80% of the current department was not here then 4) The city guys are not to proud of the days when our trucks looked like the County (I couldn't resist).

I will look forward to more information from you all. I am getting geared up for another rush on the history once all the MDA fundraising is complete for the year. Just remember that the Fill the Boot is coming up August 26,27,28. Contact your Shift Vice President to sign up or contact me by email.

Red Fire Trucks

So I have been told this is correct information. I have checked out what I have had time to, and I will leave the rest up to you all. Another firefighter sent me this information and I am passing it on. I really appreciate all of the input from everyone. I will add to this information as I learn it. I have not begun the task of documenting every fire truck the city has had, although I need to start soon. There are some really good resources still working for the department who know most of every truck that has been in service for the past 30 years and then some. Here is the information that was sent to me, as always feel free to post comments or email me on any corrections or additions. My comments are italicized in red, although there is still room for error. Feel free to call me out.

These trucks were red when bought:

In June of 83 a Hendrickson cab and chassis Grumman built was purchased for station 10.

Check the date of R902 see if it isn't a 84 or 85 model and was put at 9.

Or I may have these two trucks backwards as far as original placement.

Check the date of engine 13,86 (89?)model I think? It was originally built as Engine 1 for station 1.

Also old 11 that was just replaced was an 87 or 88 model(89 also?).

This truck also replaced a 63 ford like 8 was.

In the fall of 1984 engine 8 was bought. It was a demo truck and replaced a 1963 Ford cab over that you walked through the hose bed to get to the jump seat area. The leader lines were under the walkway to the jump seats. This truck put in reserve status. As for the new 8(1984), I think it was a Grumman (Seagrave?)and was purchased under Chief Kerleys tenure.

And of course, 91 was the 5 grummans that are currently in service(2,3,6,7,8).

Engine 5 is the only 91 Grumman that has been replaced and put at another station.

It went to 10 and then to 8 where it is now.

Dr. Seuss Strikes at MDA Camp

Don't Say I didn't tell you so. Here is the proof that Dr. Seuss was at the camp. Now you have to ask yourself who was there. Well the answer is, you should have been there and you would know. As far as who he is or what he looks like, I can't tell you. I will tell you that I did not see him sign his name on the banner. Notice the signature right in the middle on the top. Click the picture to enlarge it. There it is. Do you need any other explanation? Ok that is it for a while with the Dr. Seuss nonsense.

Could it be Dr. Seuss

I think I might have nabbed the Cat in the Hat. Although I have heard most of you ask if it is indeed me. Now before you go jumping to conclusions, remember that this is only a picture. This does not constitute proof of anything. Check back to see who else might indeed be Dr. Suess.
I can only say
Well what would you say
If they looked your way
You might squirm
Like a little worm
Or deny it all day long
Say it is someone else's song
Maybe it is a few
Who are called thing one and thing two
Maybe it is one
And he is someone's son
Or maybe they live at the Rock
And don't have to follow the flock


Either way I am sure that you will know it is not me once the Real Dr. Seuss reads this in disgust. So be it. You do not know who Dr. Seuss really is and I think that it is hilarious. Such a peak of interest within the department that has cause such hostility for a couple and such hilarity for many.

Firefighters in the News

Blog from on High's Jerry Furhman will appreciate these stories. He had a recent post on his blog about the bombs found by the firefighters recently.

First we have a man threatening to blow up a residence. Firefighters set up on scene in expectation of a man carrying out the threat to blow up a house.

From the Roanoke Times:

"Police were first notified of the subject when they responded to a domestic dispute call at 3:47 p.m. in the 2700 block of Colonial Avenue, she said. A section of Colonial Avenue near the Towers Shopping Center was blocked off during this time and briefly evacuated as police investigated a house in the area. "(link)

Luckily the man did not carry out the threat.

In another story a 38 y.o. firefighter from Roanoke City (according to the Roanoke Times) followed and tackled a man in Tanglewood Mall after he dropped a gun and picked it back up and fled. The firefighter was able to catch up to the suspect and restrained him until Police arrived.(link)

While I do not condone everyone running after suspects or suspicious persons, this shows once again that even off duty, firefighters are truly courageous in protecting the citizens of the Valley. Once I find out who this masked man is I will report. I think it may have been Dr. Seuss. But that is only a guess.

I have more to come. I received pictures from the MDA cookout/fishing tournament and the Golf Tournament. I also have a rather incriminating picture of a County Firefighter that I might have to hold on to for blackmail purposes. Check out Local 1132 for updates this evening.

Deceased: John William White

John William White

Roanoke City Firefighter

October 26, 1976-August 16, 1983

From what I have heard about FF White is that he was stationed at Fire Station #1. He was 55 years old and died on August 9, 2005.

Excerpt from the Roanoke Times obituaries:

"Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Friday, August, 12, 2005 at Culpeper National Cemetery, Culpeper, VA. Arrangements by Hamlar-Curtis Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to www.Hamlar-Curtis.com. "

New Toy

I got a hold of Adobe Photoshop and look what I was able to make. It only took about 2 hours. This stuff is not that easy, especially when you don't read the directions. Jeff Proulx and I sat down and were able to figure out another photoshop type. So you guys will have to sit back and see what I come up with. The Local 1132 website is going to have to watch out. So let me know what you think about my first attempt at design.

Firefighters find bombs in local Cemetery

Roanoke City Firefighters found 2 homemade bombs in St. Andrews Cemetery on Monday. The firefighters responded to a trash bin fire when they made the discovery. This is a reminder to all the firefighters in the Valley of the possibilities of these occurrences. Be safe and take care. (Link)

New Stations

I just spoke to someone who brought up a good point in relation to the new stations. He said that you never hear a single firefighter say "I want a new Fire Station". Firefighters are a rare breed for sure, however as long as they have what they need to get their job done they are a very happy bunch.

Sure the firefighters are bound to complain if water is running into the station because of leaks when it is raining. And yes this has happened due to the City letting some of the Fire Stations go in hopes of building new ones. We are human after all. But a new station is not on the top of our priority list. Here are some of the things that are though:

Firefighters main concern on budgetary issues, which we rarely have enough money to get many of the things we need, is when are we going to get newer and more reliable Fire Apparatus.

When will the tired worn out Fire Trucks be replaced by something newer?

When will the City finally invest in our Health by installing Diesel Exhaust Systems in our bays to remove the carcinogens?

When will we be able to afford to pay Firefighters to attend off-duty training? And yes some of the training is paid, however most of it is not.

Case and Point: I got a call on Thursday about a 2 1/2 week class that was supposed to start today. I was told that I would not be attending the class because the Department could not afford to pay the overtime needed to fill my spot while I was gone. Now mind you I had been planning on going for months now. I even planned a trip one weekend that I would be off because of the class, and now I have to cancel my plans because the department could not afford it. I will also have to wait until the next class and hope that we can afford it then.



I will continue to ask this question until I get an answer.

Why are we building a new station in the first place? All I want is a straight answer. To the point. Anything will do for now.

I was asked the other day if I am against the Consolidation of Station 5 and 9. I am not. However I do have some serious concerns as should the Communities involved. I will list the concerns and explanations below.

Station 1 consists of Ladder 1, Battalion Chief 1, and Rescue Supervisor 1.
Station 3 consists of Engine 3 and Medic 3
Station 5 consists of Engine 5
Station 9 consists of Engine 9 and Medic 9

As I understand the consolidation plan as told to me by the Fire Chief, the new fire station #1 will house Engine 3, medic 3, ladder 1, RS-1, and BC-1. I guess it should be at least 5 bays if the units are going to pull through.

The new fire station #3 (5 and 9 consolidated) will house Engine 5, Engine 9, Medic 9, and Ladder 13. At least this is what everyone is being told. I am afraid that in order to find out the truth we will just have to wait and see.

The firefighters do not want to lose an Engine Company. It is more likely that the New 5 and 9 station will only have one Engine company. Therefore losing an Engine Company. Or I have heard the rumor that one of the Engines will be replaced by a Dry Squad (Rescue truck that has specialized tools on it and firefighters who are equipped to fight fires, does not carry water or hose). Well a Dry Squad cannot have a first due territory because it does not carry water. It cannot be relied upon as an engine and is not an Engine, so if they were to do this it would be in effect the same as getting rid of an Engine.

With moving Station 3 to the new location and moving Station 5 to the new location this will leave a huge gap in the middle. This area is a high call volume area. The citizens in this area will have to wait longer for Fire and EMS service.

If you would like more information on this contact me by email.

Fire at 1002 Bullitt Ave.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a structure fire on August 6, 2005 at 1002 Bullitt Ave. The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately midnight, and was quickly under control. The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units and one Battalion Chief were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 12:15 a.m.
This is a residential structure that was occupied at the time of the fire by three people that all escaped unharmed.
Upon arrival units saw smoke coming from the attic. Fire crews made an aggressive attack and extinguised the fire quickly. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel. The fire began in the attic and the fire was contained to the attic.
Damage estimate is approximately $1,200. The cause of the fire appeared to be from a lightning strike and has been ruled accidental.

In Case of Emergency (I.C.E)

This is a follow up to Battalion Chief Manuel's email to the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department.

BC Roger Manuel wrote:

"Paramedics will turn to a victim's cell phone for clues to that person's identity. You can make their job much easier with a simple idea that they are trying to get everyone to adopt: ICE. ICE stands for In Case of Emergency. If you add an entry in the contacts list in your cell phone under ICE, with the name and phone no. of the person that the emergency services should call on your behalf, you can save them alot of time and have your loved ones contacted quickly. It only takes a few moments of your time to do. Paramedics know what ICE means and they look for it immediately. ICE your cell phone NOW! Please pass this one along!"

Here is a little more information from East Anglian Ambulance which is was formed in 1994 by amalgamating the Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk Ambulance Services, the East Anglian Ambulance NHS Trust provides emergency and non-emergency transport services as part of the NHS team in East Anglia, England.

The following excerpt is located here.


"A Cambridge-based paramedic has launched a national campaign with Vodafone to encourage people to store emergency contact details in their mobile phones. Bob Brotchie, a clinical team leader for the East Anglian Ambulance NHS Trust, hatched the plan last year after struggling to get contact details from shocked or injured patients. By entering the acronym ICE for In Case of Emergency into the mobile's phone book, users can log the name and number of someone who should be contacted in an emergency. The idea follows research carried out by Vodafone that shows more than 75 per cent of people carry no details of who they would like telephoned following a serious accident. Bob, 41, who has been a paramedic for 13 years, said: I was reflecting on some of the calls I've attended at the roadside where I had to look through the mobile phone contacts struggling for information on a shocked or injured person. It's difficult to know who to call. Someone might have a number in their phone book that doesn't mean they'd want them contacted in an emergency. Almost everyone carries a mobile phone now, and with ICE we'd know immediately who to contact and what number to ring. The person may even know of their medical history. The campaign was launched this week by Bob and Falklands war hero Simon Weston in association with Vodafones annual Life Savers Awards. Vodafone spokesperson Ally Stevens said: The Life Savers Awards already demonstrate, through practical example, the important role a mobile phone can play when minutes matter in an emergency. By adopting the ICE advice, your mobile will now also help the rescue services quickly contact a friend or relative which could be vital in a life or death situation. The campaign is also asking people to think carefully about who will be their ICE partner - with helpful advice on who to choose - particularly if that person has to give consent for emergency medical treatment. Bob hopes that all emergency services will promote ICE in their area as part of a national awareness campaign to highlight the importance of carrying next of kin details at all times. He said the idea was for the benefit of loved ones as well as the patient. Research suggests people recover quicker from the psychological effects of their loved one being hurt if they are involved at an earlier stage and they can reach them quickly," he added. He said he hoped mobile phone companies would now build the ICE contact into future models, adding: "It's not a difficult thing to do. As many people say they carry mobile phones in case of an emergency, it seems natural this information should be kept there." Nominations for the Life Savers Awards can be made by contacting the awards hotline on 0870 902 3333 or visiting www.vodafone.co.uk/lifesavers"


Snopes.com has found and posted information on I.C.E.


This is what the LAFD has to say about I.C.E.

If you have any other questions please leave a comment and I will see what I can find.

Firefighters Beat the Police On the Court

So the verdict is in and the Roanoke Fire Fighters Association beat the Roanoke Police Department by 8 points (unofficial stats) in the Charity Basketball Game this evening at Roanoke Catholic. So you better believe that I will be hanging out in the front yard until my neighbor who played in the game (Roanoke Police Officer) comes out to hang his head in shame and concede that we won. And that we are the best. I will post more information as I get it. I am sure that there is plenty of off-duty Police Officers and Firefighters downtown right now doing a little bit of the drinky-drink. I am also sure that the Police are coming up with every excuse in the book.

On a serious note, the Roanoke Fire Fighters Association would like to thank all of the Firefighters, Police Officers, sponsors, Roanoke Catholic, and fans in raising money for both the MDA and CYCLE. It is good to see the partnership in action for the good of the community.

Bumper Stickers

Uh Oh I have been hacked by Dr. Seuss.

There are Bumper Stickers available that say "Fire Station #1 is working so why move it?" If you would like one of these bumper stickers please let me know and I will point you in the right direction. There is a bonus bumper sticker available if you want it so let me know.

The Basketball game between the Roanoke Police Department and the Roanoke Fire Fighters Association is tomorrow night. You can find more information at http://www.local1132.org.

I just want to let all the Union Brothers and Sisters out their that I do not mind at all hearing about all the things going on in the Department that they are concerned about. So if you have some concerns please let one of the Union Representatives know. If you would like to assist with any activities please let one of us know. I am also available to explain or discuss any questions you might have about Local 1132 activities.

Fire at Hooker Furniture

Engines Responding were E-2, E-3, E-5, E-6, E-11, E-14.

Ladders responding were L-1, L-2, L-7

Other Units BC-1, BC-2, Chief 2, Chief 3, HazMat1, Investigation 1, Medic 6, Medic 1, Medic 2, RS-1, PIO.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a structure fire on August 3, 2005 at 2005 Greenbrier Ave., Hooker Furniture.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 7:57 p.m., and was quickly under control. The response of six Engines, three Ladder trucks, three Medic units, one Hazmat Truck, one EMS Captain, two Administrative Chiefs, one Investigative Unit, two Battalion Chiefs and one Education Information Specialist were involved in the fire. The fire was under control at 8:22 p.m.
This is a commercial structure that was not occupied at the time of the fire. Upon arrival units saw smoke coming from external vents. Upon investigating, fire crews called a second alarm. The sprinkler system had contained the fire and fire crews made an aggressive attack and extinguised the fire quickly. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel. The fire began in the paint booth vent and was contained to the paint booth and vent system.
The facility manager estimated the building to be worth $2.5 million dollars, but due to the quick actions of the fire crews, damage estimates were approximately $5,000.
The cause was spontaneous combustion and has been ruled accidental.

1918 Water Tower Fire Truck

This is a picture of the 1918 watertower. I have attached the most recent post on the truck. I will try to post more pictures soon.

"I just got back from Cycle Systems in SW Roanoke and I have good news and not so good news. The good news is that I have found the 1918 Water Tower that was housed at Station #10 (now #2 on Noble Ave.) This truck was a one of a kind for the city and it still has the wooden wheels and solid rubber tires on it. However it is in bad shape. I am not sure what if anything was scrapped on it, however the body panels are gone and it is pretty much just the frame. It still has the motor, water tower, gears, even some hose on it, but it is completely covered in rust. Can it be restored? I am not sure, I am not in that business, however it is worth looking into. I would like to thank Pete Hristov and Jay Brenner at Cycle Systems with their assistance in showing me the truck. There is also the tractor part of a tiller truck also 1918 model next to it. I will attach pictures in the future hopefully."

Engine 3 in 1984

Engine 3 at Station 3

Photo taken August 1984

Photo courtesy of Lt. Baron Gibson 6-C

This is Engine 3 in 1984. The engine was most recently known as R-901 in our reserve fleet. This Engine was just taken out of service for good and sits at the City garage. This truck was repainted red to match the rest of the fleet. I am not sure when the switch was made. If you know when they started buying red trucks please let me know.

Fire at 1119 Chapman Ave.

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a structure fire on August 2, 2005 at 1119 Chapman Ave.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 1:52 a.m., and was quickly under control. The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units, one EMS Captain, one Investigation Unit and one Battalion Chief were involved in the fire.
This is a residential structure. Upon arrival units saw smoke and flames coming from the side of the second floor apartment. They made an agressive attack and extinguished the fire rapidly.
The building was not occupied at the time of the fire. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel.
Damage estimate is approximately $25,000. The cause is under investigation.

Back to the Basics

Well I have to apologize for all of the interested readers out there who enjoy the history of the fire service. I have been busy with a lot of things. As you can read on here I have been busy in trying to keep Fire Station #1 open. I think that this has everything to do with our history.

I have been busy with the MDA also. We have the cookout Wednesday August 3rd (everyone is welcome) go to www.local1132.org/mdacookout.htm for more information. I also have to get going on the Fill the Boot Campaign for this year. As always we are not allowed doing it on duty or at the intersections. We will need all of the help we can get. Check out the MDA page of www.local1132.org for information on this soon.

I have also been busy with the RFFA's new website. If you haven't checked it out, you should soon. Our site is easily the best site in Virginia (among the locals). Of course I might have a biased opinion.

We also have the basketball game coming up on Friday August 5th. Check out www.local1132.org/basketballgame.htm for more information.

I have spoken with a lot of people recently in reference to RFFA's stance on certain subjects, what the local is doing about this and that, and why certain things are happening. I do not mind answering questions here and there, but I am not going to recite the entire meeting every time someone wants to know what is going on. It is your responsibility as a Union member to attend the meetings. It seems as though a lot of you all are interested, I just do not understand why you can't attend 1 meeting a month. I know you work 2 jobs, so do I and I manage to make it there most of the time. There are a lot of things happening at the Union Hall and within the Local, these things would happen faster if we had more people there to help us. Thanks for all that everyone does with MDA. I look forward to seeing you all out there on Wednesday.

Fire at 2309 Ranch Road

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a structure fire on July 28, 2005 at 2309 Ranch Rd.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 9:38 p.m., and was quickly under control.The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, two Medic units, one EMS Captain and one Battalion Chief were involved in the fire.
This is a residential townhouse structure. Upon arrival units saw smoke and flames coming through the roof of the townhouse. They made an agressive attack and extinguished the fire rapidly.
There was 1 person at home at the time of the fire and they escaped safely. There were also 2 other people at home in the adjacent townhouse. They also escaped safely. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel.
Damage estimates were approximately $25,000-$30,000.
The cause was a short or electrical malfunction in an exhaust fan in the upstairs bathroom.

Fire at 2449 Maryland Avenue

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to an alarm for a structure fire on July 25, 2005 at 2449 Maryland Avenue.
The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 8:45p.m., and was quickly under control.The response of three Engines, one Ladder truck, one Medic unit, and one Battalion Chief were involved in the fire.
This is a residential structure. Upon arrival units saw light smoke and flames in the basement. They made an agressive interior attack and extinguished the fire rapidly.
There were 2 people at home at the time of the fire and they escaped safely. There were no injuries to citizens or Fire-EMS personnel.
Damage estimates were $4,000 to the structure and $2,000 to the contents.
The cause was an electrical surge caused by lightning.

More information on the proposed Fire Station #1 building site.

A concerned department member asked me that I review my facts on the posting that I submitted concerning the site for the new station #1. So I have dug a little deeper and I am posting my findings here. If you would like to see the information for yourself or read the entire City Council agenda you can find it here: http://www.roanokegov.com go to departments, City Council, then go to meeting agendas, followed by Council agendas and reports, then go to July 18, 2005, the part we are concerned with starts on page 102.

"A stipulation for participation in the VRP was the City's agreement to a Declaration of Restrictive Covenants associated with the property that permits groundwater beneath the property to be used only for environmental monitoring and testing and that the property shall not be used for residential purposes or for a children's daycare facility, schools or playground purposes. The residential exclusion does not apply to the use of the property for a fully-staffed fire Station/Administration Building."

Source: The meeting report for Roanoke City Council July 18, 2005.

Furthermore I have the definition as found at http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/glossary.htm.

Brownfields

With certain legal exclusions and additions, the term `brownfield site' means real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.

Definition Source:The Brownfields Site definition is found in Public Law 107-118 (H.R. 2869) - "Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act" signed into law January 11, 2002.

So this site is indeed a brownfield site as described by the definition.

Also noted in the City Council Report is this:

"DISCUSSION OF RELEVANT INFORMATION

The subject site had been developed with the Crystal Springs Laundry from approximately 1914 to 1977, at which time it was demolished. The subject site has been undeveloped since then. Soil and groundwater sampling was conducted at the subject site in 2002 and 2003 and both soil and groundwater were found to be impacted by dry cleaning solvents. A groundwater monitoring well was installed in 2004. Laboratory analyses indicated soil and groundwater at the subject site to be impacted with chloroform, 1,2-dichlorobenzene (1,2-DCB), cis-1,2,- dichloroethene (c-1,2-DCE), tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE). Only PCE and TCE in groundwater exceeded the VRP Tier II Screening Levels and a quantitative risk assessment determined that the concentrations present at the site did not pose a significant risk.

In July 1998 during a geotechnical investigation, an underground storage tank (UST) was encountered and removed. The UST was documented to have had a release and was addressed under the Commonwealth of Virginia UST regulations. Remaining petroleum constituents were addressed under the VRP Risk Assessment."

Later in the report it is written:

"The risk assessment concluded that contamination in the soil and groundwater at the Site did not present an unacceptable risk to human health or the environment provided that the impacted groundwater at the Site is not used for drinking water purposes or development for residential or children day care purposes. Therefore, the following deed restrictions are to be incorporated: (1) groundwater beneath the Site shall not be used for any purpose other that environmental monitoring and testing and; (2) the Site shall not be used for residential purposes or for children's (under the age of 16) daycare facilities, schools or playground purposes (although hotels and motels are not prohibited). the residential exclusion also does not apply to the use of the Property for a fully-staffed Fire Station/ Administration Building."

All of that being said you might ask what all of this means. Well to me it means that the site has some serious contaminates left in the soil and that the Agencies involved have made sure that children are not exposed to its risks at a daycare, nor is any citizen exposed to its risk as a residence EXCEPT FIREFIGHTERS who CAN live there and CAN work there because the report was written that it is okay.

Now I know that Roanoke City asks a lot of its firefighters, and we always rise to the occasion no matter what the risk to protect its citizens. That is what we are here for. To be a public servant and protect life and property from the perils of fire, medical emergencies, and any other situation or incident that the citizens/visitors of this great City might call us for. However I do not know of any training or otherwise that the City thinks may protect us from the same ailments that others might experience while living on this Site. Yes that is right, we will be living on this site (at least the firefighters who are stationed there) and it plainly says in black and white that it cannot be used as residential. Sure there is the exception for the fire station, but why. Why would they subject us to these contaminates that they deem the rest of the citizens/visitors of the City should not be.

These are questions that need answers. If you have not emailed or called City Council on this matter and you feel the same way then you need to.

Fire at Stratford Park Apartments

A fire in the 3800 block of Stratford Park occured on Sunday July 24th, 2005. Units responding include E-4, E-13, E-3, E-7, L-7, L-13, BC-1, RS-1, M-4, M-3, and Salem Engine 2. The fire occured at 6:47 pm and was quickly controlled. The fire was a room and contents fire and damaged a single apartment unit. One family was displaced by the fire and the family cat parished in the fire.

Firefighter B.T. Butler currently in Iraq

I hope no one has forgotten about B.T. Butler. I snapped this picture at #13 when the rest of the company was busy doing a company drill. Ha Ha. Just kidding. I have heard from B.T. several times now and he seems to be doing fine. I have looked for him on Firehouse Forums but I have not seen him on there in a while. Firefighter Butler is currently overseas in Iraq working for Wackenhut as a Firefighter on base. He has seen a little bit of fire apparently over there, which is more than he can say about when he was here. Again just kidding. Email B.T. Butler. I am pretty sure that is his email, I will edit it if it is wrong. I will edit it if that is wrong. Send him an email to let him know we are thinking about him. I trying to remember if this picture was taken at 9am on a Wednesday or not. ha ha ha.

The all new RFFA Local 1132 Online

Ok so I have pulled all of my hair out at this point. However after major set-backs by the smallest issues the all new and improved RFFA Local 1132 website is online. This is my first attempt at building a website. I have to admit I had help with it from dreamweaver. There is so much that I have not even begun uncover from dreamweaver. So I hope you all appreciate it, and keep looking back. It certainly will not be a stagnant site. I hope to capitalize on the abundance of server space available. Look for major improvements in the future.

Anyways I just wanted to let you all know that it is online and see what you guys thought.

www.local1132.org

MVA on Loudon Ave.

Here is Engine 5 B-shift on the scene of an MVA on Loudon and 15th street. One person was transported by Medic 3. Incident took place on July 20, 2005.