SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - September 2018

SAFER Meeting Minutes

September 21, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees: Vice President Weise ,Past President Gurrola, Wilkerson, Seely , Sharbo, Tracy Rabe   

Corona Fire Department @ Circle City Center

365 N. Main Street, Corona

0941    Meeting called to order – Vice President Weise, welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, introduced Board Member Jeff Wilkerson who introduced A/C Cox who led the flag salute and a moment of silence for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. A/C Cox introduced Fire Chief Young who welcomed SAFER to the Corona Fire Department and related his appreciation of SAFER’s work.

**Thanks to Marken PPE ISP for morning hospitality.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – Just returned from an NFPA 1851 committee meeting in Fort Lauderdale. Dick related some changes in the standard that will soon be in effect. The new standard for Wildland PPE (NFPA 1877) will provide standards for SCAM of Wildland PPE. Standard for determining “cleanliness” are now available. Discussed the numerous test methods and “age standards” will be included in both standards. There is ongoing work on the issue of respiratory protection in the Wildland arena.

Cal-OSHA –  Scott Hudson (via email): Nothing to report

Vender Liaison – FH World will be in LA City March 24-28, 2019 at the Downtown Convention Center.  Reno November 6,7 & 8, 2018.

Safety and Training:

Apparatus:

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – Tony Duran (Via email to board members) Savings and Checking was reported to Board Members (Not posted herein for privacy / security reasons)

Communications – Tracy / Tony: Please “sign-in” to receive emails and be included on meeting minutes. 

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Up Coming Event:

Behavioral Health Conference – October 24 or 25, 2018 – 0900-1700 Hrs.

Hosted by Orange County Fire Authority

1 Fire Authority Road, Irvine 92602

Speakers:

Kim Lightley – USFS / Pineville Hotshots

South Canyon Fire on Storm King Mountain Survivor – NFFF Stress First Aid for Wildland Firefighters

Battalion Chief Joe Krebbs and Firefighter Frank Ungaro – FDNY

Founders of Peer and Family Support Services FDNY (established 9/12/2001)

Fire Chief Frank Babinec and Captain Chris Bator – Coral Springs – Parkland FD

Captain Bator – President of Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative

Captain Jeremy Hurd – Palm Beach County Fire Rescue

Mental Wellness Director of Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative

**To enroll, visit: ocfatraining.org/classes/health

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SAFER Meeting Program(s):

Marken PPE ISP 

Presented by: Jeremy Verderber of Marken PPE

Jeremy spotlighted some technologies being used to assess and improve cleanliness issues related to firefighter PPE.

**Video shown demonstrating laundry cleaning equipment:

New BASF “beads” are used to gently massage fabrics while being laundered. (The Zeros Technology) The beads are reusable (1000 washes or about 30 days) and are then remanufactured and reused. 800,000 beads used per use in the Marken ISP facility. These beads have been shown to help remove asbestos in PPE. Conventional technology also is also effective in removing asbestos but the Zeros Technology is much easier on retroreflective trims on PPE as well as less damaging to the underlying fabrics. The “massaging effects” of the beads on the fabric(s) has been shown to be beneficial in the laundering process. 

Corona FD - Lessons learned from Fires / Floods in the past two years

Presented by: Chief Cox – Corona Fire Department

A/C Cox related the recent activities the Corona Fire Department has had. They have opened the “EOC” eight times in the last year:

7 Stations, 7 engines 1 truck, 1 B/C – 170,000 population

1. Canyon Fire (#1 & #2) – September 25, 2017

1. Started in ORCO along 91 Frwy

2. Wind reversal blew fire into Corona

3. Activated Structure Protection Contingincy Paln

4. No Structures Lost

5. A few house damaged

Lessons Learned:

1. Contigincy Pplan works

2. Train, Train, Train

3. Cal Fire / Firescope WUI Structure Defence Tactics

4. Partnerships works, SOLAR response plan

5. FMAG Approved, set up a plan and follow directions

6. EOC Excercises are critical:

1. PIO (Social Media)

2. Reverse 911

3. Logistics

4. Traffic

1. Jan Mudslides – January 8, 2018 – 1600 hours

1. Contingency Plan

2. Plan adoption and training

3. Decision Points

4. Evacuation Terminology – (using FIRESCOPE terminology)

5. EOC Activation

1. January 8, 2018, opened EOC and issued Evacuation Warning (Voluntary Evacuation)

2. January 9th - , about 1530 hours received major rainstorm and a flash flood warning from the NWS – triggered a mandatory evacuation order.

Lessons Learned / Successes:

1. Contingency planning works

2. Pre-program reverse 911 when you can

3. Stay on top of social media

4. Pre=plan CalFire hand crew contracts

1. Social Media

1. March Rain Event

1. Predicted large rainstorm

2. EOC Activation

3. Major event didn’t occur

1. Skyline Fire – July 19, 2018

1. Tin Mine Canyon / Skyline Truck Trail (Popular Hiking trail)

2. RRU/CNF/COR

3. 282 Acres, 4-day fire

4. Potential for a few thousand acres

5. Fire ran downhill / Elsinore effect

6. Evacuations of about 150 structures

7. No structures lost, very minor damage (retardant

8. Early Unified Command

9. Lots of Resources

10. ICP moved away from fire area back to a fire station

11. Use of brand new XRI Management Team

12. Corona OEC Management watch, good PIO coordination,

1. Research Fire – August 2, 2018

1. Approx. 15 acres

2. Good use of aircraft

3. Several hundred structures potentially threatened

4. Evacuations considered but not orders

5. Lots of hose use , tasked the agencies hose

1. Rincon Fire x2 – August 6

1. About 40 Acres

2. No aircraft available (eventually got a firehawk, thanks to LA CO FD

3. 20 total engines used

4. Several homes and a three story framed new construction apartment complex threatened

Lesson Learned:

1. Good pre-fire planning

2. Good aggressive firefighting

3. Ran out of hose!

4. Second operational period

1. Holy Fire -

1. Started same day as Rincon Fire

2. Fire never impacted Corona

3. Impacts: local events cancelled, traffic

Busy Summer! Issues going forward;

1. Lots of crews on strike teams

2. Fatigue  - resting in stations

3. Pulling and cleaning hose

4. Use of Acting B/C’s

5. Enough Utility Vehicles

6. Logistical support

1130 Adjourn to network with equipment venders

1200 Return to roundtable:

Paul Laker -  Workrite – Has new dual compliant PPE,.

Chief Tony Pighitti -  Santa Barbara City

Steve Hanks – SCOTT Safety - New pro airpack out, will comply with new SCBA NFPa

B/C Barry Owens Cal Fire Riverside – Available to assist with other agencies.

Brent Nunez - Torrance Fire – Developing a CA prevention policy. NH3 ongoing today (Tony Duran)

Sabastian – Fillmore Fire :

Keith Gurrola – Fillmore Fire : 3 new paid firefighters added to roster, (6-7 persons a day) Will be hiring- FF-1 & EMT-1 required. Looking for type 3 units

Kelly Whitt Dupont – Working on Nomex with new liner with less weight. Dupont wants to support FF with

Tracy Rabe – Linegear : Has new catalog of product line.

Gail Mills – Mills Custom Art: Has array of professional poster depicting career highlights and professional gear.

Jeremy Verderber -  (Retired Corona B/C) – Now Merkan Rep – Open to tour facilities at Merkan PPE ISP here in Corona.

Tom Martain – Responded Solutions: Black Diamond, Night Stick, Shelby, Lakeland Fire, Gerber, Nupla products reversible high visibility jackets, many other products related to emergency operations.

Eric Higgins – BestWay Laundry solutions : new FireLink software to allow scanning individual PPE elements for recording keeping.

Scott Estrada FIREETC –San Diego : They stock all fireground equipment and Class A foam inventory. Has Citrosquese

Bill Ward – PumpPod USA, giving demonstrations to numerous fire service agencies of their pump training / testing units as well as water source units for refilling helicopter’s.  (HeloPod) Will be at CalChiefs meeting next Thursday to show their units

Mike Schlaggs – Cobra Litters : Has built the perfect wheeled liter system, Showed the product in many scenarios via a promotional video system. Unit is uniquely designed for logistical transport – patient transport – crew transport scenarios.

Brent – Red Equipment Group -KME,

Next Meeting: Carlsbad Fire Department in November

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - August 2018

SAFER Meeting Minutes

August 17, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees:  Past President Duran , President Quinn,  Wilkerson, Seely , Vendor Liaison Sposato, Russ Snyder   

Orange County Fire Authority Headquarters / Training Center

0940    Meeting called to order – President Quinn, welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Russ Snyder led the flag salute and a moment of silence for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. Assistant Chief Sanchez welcomed SAFER to the OCFA and related his experience with SAFER as a young firefighter and realizing the value of the organization as he grew and promoted within the OCFA. He thanked the fire service membership and venders for attending the meeting today -.  “Make a change for the better”. He related the importance of the efforts being made to prevent the occurrences of Cancers in our profession.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – Absent - Nothing to report

Cal-OSHA –  Scott Hudson (via email): A Grant opportunity to Provide Health and Safety Training:

OSHA Susan Harwood Training Grant Program is accepting applications to provide training and education programs. State or local government agencies are not eligible to apply. So, your fire department would not be eligible, but employer associations and labor unions would be. So, your fire unions could apply for this grant. There is not much time but maybe there might be a current program that could qualify.

If interested you can go to the OSHA website or call 847-759-7700. Applications are due by September 2nd.

If you have any questions. Please let me know

Vendor Liaison – FH World will be in LA City March 24-28, 2019 at the Downtown Convention Center.  FRI last week in Dallas, was well attended. Reno November 6,7 & 8, 2018. Grants are being awarded for facilities. Recommends getting a professional grant writer to help with your grant applications. (Over 90% success). Vendors need to be members of SAFER ($100 / Year) to help support the ongoing SAFER program.

Safety and Training: Nothing reported

Apparatus: Nothing reported

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – Savings and Checking was reported to meeting attendees. (Not posted herein for privacy / security reasons)

Communications – Tracy / Tony: Please “sign-in” to receive emails and be included on meeting minutes. 

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Up Coming Event:

Behavioral Health Conference – October 24 or 25, 2018 – 0900-1700 Hrs.

Hosted by Orange County Fire Authority

1 Fire Authority Road, Irvine 92602

Speakers:

Kim Lightley – USFS / Pineville Hotshots

South Canyon Fire on Storm King Mountain Survivor – NFFF Stress First Aid for Wildland Firefighters

Battalion Chief Joe Krebbs and Firefighter Frank Ungaro – FDNY

Founders of Peer and Family Support Services FDNY (established 9/12/2001)

Fire Chief Frank Babinec and Captain Chris Bator – Coral Springs – Parkland FD

Captain Bator – President of Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative

Captain Jeremy Hurd – Palm Beach County Fire Rescue

Mental Wellness Director of Florida Firefighters Safety and Health Collaborative

**To enroll, visit: ocfatraining.org/classes/health

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Program: Cancer Prevention in the Fire Service

Presented by: Captain Jeff Hughes – OCFD & Dr. Jeffery Burgess

Capt. Hughes (OCFA) opened the presentation on the status of the OCFA Cancer Awareness / Prevention program(s). Capt. Hughes related the evolution of the OCFA’s program and its openness to offer “lessons learned” from their experience(s). OC has an individual with an “Industrial Hygienist” background in their Risk Management Department. He discussed the new video the agency produced dealing with cancer.

Insert Video here:

“Two out of three professional firefighters will be diagnosed with cancer in their lives”

PowerPoint Notes:

“Taking a Stand Against Cancer “ – The Organizational Changes

August 2017 SAFER Meeting Presentation

New OCFA Cancer Awareness Video

Instructor Lead CA

Statistics:

CDC States that man have a 1 in 2 lifetime risk of developing CA

Firefighter’s have a 9% higher risk of getting Ca and 14% higher risk of dying from Cancer.

Risk Management Options – Hierarchy of controls slide shown

Org changes vs Cultural changes slide shown.

OCFA Gold Standard: Discussed OCFA CAPP components / SOP’s:

1. Create emotional impactful video

2. Deliver instructor lead awareness to all members

3. Branding Campaign

1. Posters

2. Clean Air

3. Clean Body

4. Clean Gear

1. Policies & Procedures

2. State and National Outreach

3. Selection Care and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural FF

1. PPE Exchange Programs – Second Set,  Flash Hoods, Structure Gloves, Helmet liners

1. Respiratory Protection

2. Use of Multi-Rae 6 gas monitor

3. Use of Exhaust Extraction (DRAFT)

1. Proper Use of System

2. Pneumatic

3. Magnetic

4. Preventative Maintenance Program

1. Post fire Decon Procedures (DRAFT). Video being developed.

1. “While effective at removing PAH had no apparent effect on VOC concentrations as decontaminated gear provided similar off gas levels as the gear…”

2. “Cleansing wipes were able to reduce PAH contamination on neck skin by a median of 54%” (Removing Metal Oxides is the goal)

3. Clean CAB measures – SCBA & other contaminated gear OUTSIDE of crew cabs.

4. Exposure Reporting:

1. OCFA OCFIRS

2. California Professional Firefighters PER

3. CSFA

1. Asbestos Exposure During Emergency Incidents (DRAFT)

1. Suspected in structures built pre-1980

2. Deconstructing is what we do

3. Firefighters have more than 100% greater risk of getting mesothelioma

4. 30-50 year latency period

5. Asbestos testing is available, but tedious to perform. – New ISP is available in Corona who can test and clean PPE with asbestos exposure.

1. How clean is clean?

2. ISP’s

3. Sampling Procedures

4. What about other tools and equipment?

1. Micro Learning

1. “Potty” Training

2. 52 Small Training Nuggets

3. “QR” Code training products

4. Video or written

1. Investigators

1. SCBA Use

2. PAPR / w-CBRN Filters

3. Wipes

4. Decon for Work Vehicles

5. PPE DECON (Periodic)

1. NESTE Renewable Fuel

1. 100% renewable & Sustainable

2. Up to

3. ....

1. FACE Team:

1. 30 Members Strong

2. Decentralizes Work

3. Training Opportunities

1. Vehicle DECON

1. Equipment exposed ….

1. Research Projects

1. Statistical Power

2. Incidence VS Mortality

3. Examination of risks in other groups

1. Control for potential bias – “Healthy Worker Effect”

DR. Jeff Burgess MD, MS, MPH - University of Arizona

Dr. Burgess Conducting research and analysis of Firefighter Health and Safety related to toxic / carcinogen exposure(s).

1. Evaluate carcinogen exposures

2. Measure biomarkers of carcinogenic (epigenetic_ effect)

3. Reduce fire service carcinogenic  exposures

4. Inhalation and dermal exposure

1. Fireground Urinary PAH-OH Results slide shown – notable observation was engineers had similar results. Tucson FD now has pump operators on SCBA. Investigators now wear smaller “industrial” SCBA’s and Tyvek suits.

2. 1-Naphthol slide showed results of intervention effectiveness in Tucson, AZ.

Cancer Pathways – Latency period 5-30+ years 

1. Exposure

2. Cellular

3. Cancer

Epigenetic Changes –

1. Changes in gene expression with changes in DNA sequence

MicroRNA Results showed incumbent firefighters genetic changes are related to Cancer occurance.

Firefighter Cancer Cohort Study (>10,000 subjects) was described by Dr. Burgess. Program goals and aims were shown.

Colorectal Cancer is 30% increase in firefighters – is “low handing fruit” in the battle against Cancer.

Other chemicals and known carcinogens are possibly going to be added to the studies at the request of stakeholders (CPF, IAFF and others).

Question: is exposure to “purple water” being used for training at risk for firefighters?

Answer: This has not been studied by the above study programs but he wanted to follow-up with the questioner. Note: “purple water – reclaimed waste water” does NOT meet AWWA standards for domestic use.

Question: Have there been any studies on the use of sauna after fire incidents?

Answer- No data yet, but Tucson, AZ is conducting a local study at this time.

Question: Has fire scene contamination transfer to station vistors, family and citizen – patients been documented.

Answer: Tests have been done to demonstrate the transfer using a dye material. 

Question:

How can you dispel the notion that a particular station is a “Cancer Cluster” workplace.

Dr. Burgess related that epidemiologist’s typically study and identify “Cancer Clusters” after study of occurrences. Epidemiologists are available through Health agencies, Universities and NIH.

Captain Hughes related his availability to present this program to other agencies or to share program resources with others.

Captain Jeff Hughes – OCFA – Operations Training and Safety

jeffhughes@ocfa.org

(714) 573-6756

(949) 560-7197

Roundtable:

Steve Hoyle – California Fire Museum

Jack Koltaj – Ventura County Federal FD

Cristina Hero Wipes – Acquired Rescue wipes , Now DBA Rescue Wipes, Has Fire Decon and EMS Decon Wipes.

Tracy Rabe – Line Gear – New Catalog available

Jon Hunter – Swede Rescue Systems – Has a line of Swedish Rescue Equipment – Has a new Decon system to clean tools, SCBA Masks etc..Known as Solar Rescue

Dr. Burgess – Thanked SAFER for the opportunity to present his study information.

Jeff Wilkerson Camp Pendleton (Retired) - Calif Fire Museum moving along slowly.

Bill  Ward – Pump Pod - Helo Pod developed (A dip tank device)           Has a system to pump test, train pump ops and save water.

Steve Hanks – SCOTT Safety – Discussed XP-Pro has a removable harness and waist pad for decontamination. Demonstration units are available.  

Russ Snyder – ORCO – Nothing to add.

Justin Carr – Newport Beach – First time at SAFER – Hosting SAFER in November.

Kirk Owen – Veridian – Update on 1851 – Meeting Sept in Fort Lauderdale to finalize updates on 1851, release expected next year. Study Identified hazardous material on gear, how to clean and how to measure cleanliness. Best practices are being defined, maintenance standards and methods. Cleaning techniques must be accredited as being effective.

Jordan Evans – Citrosqueeze – Developed a Gross Decon SOP available.  

Bob Wood – CalFire Riverside – Has Double set of PPE per employee. Have new extractors in several spots in the organization including the drill tower. Has cooling containers for heat injury prevention.  All tees shirts are being background printing instead of solid printed.

Joe Sposado – AllStar Fire Equipment – Related SAFER has been in front of the PPE SCAM standard from the beginning. CalFire should be getting their SCOTT SCBA’s soon since

Tony Duran – LACoFD (Retired) – now with NH3 Institute: Classes: Torrance Fire next month (1/2 day) Check SAFER.org website for NH3 link.

Michele Trout – Lion Gear – Complimented Dr. Burgess for his efforts for firefighter safety, NFPA ensemble available .

Jim Cleary – Plymovent – Related the exhaust extraction systems are very important to reduce Cancer occurrences’ in the fire service. Jim related he appreciates the friendships and business opportunities within the SAFER community.  

Jeremy Verderber – Marken ISP – In Corona, can clean asbestos.

Bret Nunez – Torrance FD – Thanked OCFA for hosting. Torrance had units out at statewide fire incidents including overhead assignments.   

Next Meeting: Corona Fire in September

SAFER Meeting Minutes - July 2018

SAFER Downey Fire

July 20, 2018

Board Members Present:

President Quinn, Past President Duran, Seely, Weise, Sposdo,

0940    Meeting called to order: B/C Mike Whitney welcomed SAFER to Downey Fire Headquarters and led the flag salute and a moment of silence for those who’ve paid the ultimate sacrifice. B/C introduced Engineer Rich Vos who is his equipment officer.

Business:

***Sign-in sheet was passed around for attendance.

Apparatus: None

Venders: None

OSHA: Nothing

Treasurers Report”: Discussed but not reported herein. $100.00 for department membership – discussed adding links to department / company websites. Venders need to pay for membership and link.

Program : First Responder Electrical Safety - NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the workplace for first responders

NECA  - National Electrical Contractors Association

IBEW – International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

CJ Hamilton

46 Years in electrical trades, retired 10 years.

Switches :       Open = Off

                        Closed = On

100 FF’s / year injured by electrical current

65 Killed this year from electrocution

Arc Flash / Arc Blast / Faraday Cage

Dr. Grossman’s Video on the mechanism(s) of an electrocution / electrical injury

Types of injuries from electricity:

1.      Locked-on: Boils your blood from the heating effect of electrical flow.

2.      Terminal to terminal (+/-) Effects heart conductivity

Shut down procedures:

1.      Shut off loads

2.      Shut down sub-panel breakers

3.      Shut down main

Don’t be in a hurry around electricity!! Don’t take short-cuts!!

**Always test electrical distribution equipment with the back of your hand in case it is electrified from a short – if you’re shocked your hand will “pull away” from the equipment instead of “Locking-on”.

Milliamps to kill:

Severity of the shock:

·         Path

·         Push (Voltage)

·         Time – of the shocking current through the body

Electricty KILLS:

·         Can’t see it

·         Can’t touch it

·         Cant taste it

·         Can’t smell it coming

·         You don’t have to touch it , sometimes just be close, it can arc or flash over to you

It’s HOT till you prove it’s NOT

Faraday Cage: Electrified BUT NOT GROUNDED to make current flow – “You’ve got Electricity on your body”.

Moisture, sweat, proximity to ground, material(s) you’re in contact with (clothes, boots, walking surface.

CJ warns of unexpected electrical sources:

ü  Shorted panels, “stolen” power that by-passes usual safety system(s) – common in grow houses and bootleg businesses.

ü  Downed distribution lines

ü  Stray voltage

CJ demonstrated the “faraday cage” phenomenon with several attendees. Hair raised with grounding source.

·         12KW line can “reach” 30’ diameter to effect a grounded person, if you step outside the faraday gage you must “bunny-hop” or “shuffle your feet” or “roll out” to avoid becoming grounded. If you start feeling tingling sensation you’re getting “low voltage” as you begin to

·         “10 feet” is the minimum safe distance to energized lines / equipment

·         30 feet from high voltage “Downed” lines

·         Stay out for smoke 1 to 1 ½ times the height of the pole to avoid a GROUND STRIKE

·         10 feet from a down low-voltage line (cable / telephone etc..) because it may be energized from an electrical line elsewhere

·         10 feet from a Down Insulated Entrance Wire.

Only operator should be in contact with an aerial apparatus. Must jump clear to avoid being the ground

Average two workers a day from Arc Flash –

Arc Flash:

35,000 degrees – copper wire turns to vapor (67,000 x expansion going from solid to vapor)

Intense light is source of injury to eyes

Molten copper “dots” can injure tissues and be inhaled

When you enter a utility room – LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN due to potential vapor expansion in the space.

Don’t pull a meter unless you have to, if you must pull one pull it from the side – never in front

Don’t approach electrically energized equipment “facing direct”

11:00 Break to vendor displays

1145 Roundtable:

Acknowledgement of Steve Cooley’s contribution to SAFER – 40 Year of membership in SAFER, contributing to Firefighter Safety. Joe Sposado presented the SAFER appreciation plaque to Steve.

Steve related his long time association with SAFER as a representative of Halprin Fire Equipment.  He discussed the original “meeting” 40 years ago and related how SAFER evolved and grew into the current organization. He related the value of the old newsletter at that time, before email and on-line communication methods.

A/C Ibey – Downey Fire Dept . – Related P/M Engine program , 1/3 dept 5 vears or less on the job. Lots of remodeling

B/C Whitney – Downey Fire Dept. - Going single layer wild land gear from Line Gear. Two new ambulances (one at each station). All city employees.

Torry D’ALESIO Inc. – Returning to SAFER after a 6 year , they design and manufacture leather equipment for Firefighters

Tony Pighetti – Santa Barbara City FD – Working with PD to prepare for Actice Shooter Incident. Related PPE issues for a regional PPE std for mud flow incidents

Jim Cleary – Plymovent, related the exhaust removal systems they design and install.  Related the new DPF systems aren’t a replacement for fixed station exhaust removal systems. Add the carncinagins are in the gas as well

Eric Higgins – BestWay Laundry Systems – New scanner based PPE tracking system is now available to track cleaning and maintenance.

Mike Weisenberg – Ventura County Fire – Grad new class this AM, promoted 6 Captains.

Tracy Rabe – LineGear Equipment – Thanked the program and DFD

Lisa Rameriz – MES – Thanked CJ for the presentation today, new with SAFER

Wade White – LAFD – New Apparatus coming to city, new helicopter, going to morning pride PPE.

JP – LACoFD Retired / now with MES – Related Lazarow Martinez and Lisa Rameriz is now on the MES team. Discussed the new Viper Pant and coat design that has become very popular and is being delivered to the LA Area consortium. 

Hero Wipes – Discussed CA in the fire service, has a wipe product that is effective at removing carbon based material from the skin.

Russ Snider – ORCO Fire Authority – Organizational Look at Cancer Prevention Program – One year later w/ Dr. Burgess will speak. New Apparatus coming Type 3’s etc..

Gabe AllStar Fire Equipment – Discussed their new Lion Hoods

Steve – Scott Safety – Fresno South – Discussed the new Scott X3 Pro Airpack – Relatede harness is fully removable for cleaning.

Joe Sposado – AllStar Fire Equipment – Related appreciation to DFD for hosting the July Meeting . NFPA Glove sizing is going to “Military Sizing” to comply with the new NFPA Standard. New SCBA standard working its way through the update process.

Michael Sledge – Ventura County (Retired) – Cobra Rescue Carts – Related improvements to the Rescue system (vinyl).

Steve Cooley – Cobra Litters – Related his appreciation to program presenter and DFD.

Industrial Scientific – Discussed the importance of improving monitoring and gas detection technics to reduce exposures. Related new

Brent Nunez – Torrance Fire – Working towards CA prevention and illness reduction. 

Lazrow  Martinez – MES – Related the various products they represent in the area to improve FF Safety. PPE

Tony Duran – Treasurer SAFER, LACoFD Retired, Ammonia Institute –

Dick Weise VP SAFER, LACoFD – NFPA Committee Meeting – 1877 SCAM for Wildland PPE, has standards for decon techniques in the field and advanced decon and maintenance. NFPA is trying to connect the care and maintenance of the various PPE ensembles “across the board”.

Robert Hamilton – CAR – Build grab handles etc for apparatus.

Tom Martin –Manufactures Rep. – Listed the companies he represents: Lakeland Fire, Gloves, Gerber Outerwear, Nupla (axes, pike poles etc,) Black Diamond.

Scott Quinn – Pres. SAFER, LAFD B/C

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - June 15, 2018

SAFER Meeting Minutes

June 15, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees:  Past President Duran , President Quinn, VP Wiese  Wilkerson, Seely, Szczepanek , Vendor Liaison Sposato,   

LAFD Hotchkins   Training Center

0940    Meeting called to order – President Quinn, welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting with the flag salute and a moment of silence for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. Scott relating some unique features of the Training Center to those visiting.

Past President Duran related the recent improvements to the website and the move towards a new sign-in process.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – NFPA committees are “in between revisions” on numerous standards with possible changes out for comments. Fire Shelter standards being updated with a performance as well as a test standard.

Incorporation of several capabilities into one ensemble is being looked at to reduce weight on FF’s as well as increase CA prevention. Examples: TIC’s within SCBA facemasks, axe holders built into SCBA harnesses. The issue of how test and approve such additions into current single ensemble standards / certifications is being discussed. 

New “Wildland” PPE (NFPA 1877) coming soon. Best practices for SCAM. Discussed each article of the ensemble must be laundered / inspected at least once a year.

 Helmets must be cleaned, liners removed and cleaned or replaced as need to remove toxins from the unit. Gloves cleaning and standards of cleanliness are being looked at for future 1851 standards.

“How clean is Clean?” It will take years to get where we need to get to our “best practices” goals.

Cal-OSHA –  FED-OSHA requires form 300A being submitted to CalOSHA electronically every year.  Indoor Heat Illness Draft Standard has an exemption for agencies meeting the Outdoor Heat Illness standard.   

Vender Liaison – FH World will be in LA City March 24-28, 2019 at the Downtown Convention Center.  Grants will be announced shortly for 2018. NFPA SCBA has been delayed due to “buddy breathing connection” being selected as DRAGGER, which is one of the product lines in the US. SCOTT filed a request to use their connection as the standard for Buddy Breathing Connections. Expecting the new standard to be out in 2019.

Safety and Training: Nothing reported

Apparatus: Type 6 units: Many agencies are buying type 6 units instead of sending Type 1 units to wildland incidents. Vehicle  weight has been a problem as these units are often overloaded.

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – New year, please pay your annual dues. Account balances were discussed but not documented herein.

Communications – Tracy / Tony:

Program: UAS ”Drone” use in the Fire Service

Presented by Sr Chief David Danielson(USN) and B/C Richard Fields

Key Points: (abbreviated from PP Presentation):

Chief Fields discussed the LAFD UAS (Drone) Program as a developing capability. He related LAFD FF/PM David Danielson (retired USN Master Chief) with extensive experience in the use of UAS equipment has been the technical “lead” on the Drone program. Chief Fields discussed the benefits the agency has experienced at recent incidents:

·         Program acts as a “force multiplier” allowing field commanders to better assign resources to “actual” areas with tactical needs.

·         Program enhances firefighter safety by providing accurate situation / status intelligence to incident that identifies “hot spots”, physical hazards and real time fire behavior(s). 

·         Drone can “monitor” fireground conditions saving $4,440 to $4,900 / hour compared to maned rotorcraft; vs. $10,000 to $12,000 to purchase a FLIR system equipped UAV.

·         Can be equipped with sensors and camera capabilities to support S&R, HazMat, WMD and other “high hazard” scenarios.

LAFD FF/PM David Danielson related the various requirements the department has in place to insure their use of these resource types remain “transparent” and within agency protocol:

·         COA - “Certificate of Authorization to fly” required to operate a UAV:

Blanket COA:

o   At or below 400 feet AGL and

o   5 Nautical Miles from an airport having an operating control tower or

o   3 miles from an airport having a published flight control policy

·         LAFD program operated on the basis of “you are a pilot operating an aircraft” mindset. This mindset maintains professionalism and operational standardization in the program.

·         LAFD UAV features Hi-Def zoom and an IR camera.

·         Operator / Pilot training requires 20 hours plus part 107 cert. as well as other materials / studies to operate the LAFD Drone(s). UAV Pilot must also have a” visual observer” allowing the pilot to focus entirely on operation of the UAV. The Visual Observer maintains communication between Incident Command, tactical units (including air-ops / air-boss) and associated technologies (mapping, data collection and situational awareness).

·         LAFD gets FAA approval by phone (and hardcopy next day) before every incident use. Notification of the regional RADAR traffic center may be part of their approval.

·         FAA can issue an “NTAM”: Notice to airmen when a UAV is operating in an area to prevent conflict with general aviation. 

·         LAFD documents every use by tying  an incident number, with flight data  attached and  after action report with the incident for maximum program operational  transparency 

Q: Where does this fit into FIRESCOPE?

A: This program is being developed by LAFD for LAFD (and cooperating agencies when appropriate). Will be offered up to Incident as lead agencies evolve (such as transitioning to management teams or as an incident moves into another jurisdiction)

NASA – Ames Research is studying the area airports, in 3-D, with pathways / flight patterns INCLUDING the addition of UAV/UAS devices that may occupy the airspace in the future.

Issues of security / public privacy of down-links and access to aerial data were discussed.  

 B/C Richard Fields : Richard. Fields@LACITY.org

Roundtable:

Ron Harris Noice Industries – Security Solution’s based on Drones, sensors , detectors. Has fixed wing, rotorcraft as well as drones.

Kevin Rockwell – Chief Pilot for Noice Industries. Touts doing things right.

Richard Wiese LACoFD – Classes moving forward, getting new B/C’s cars based on ½ ton P/U

Mike Weisberg Ventura CoFD – New classes moving through, chiefs interviews ongoing. B/C’s test coming up. ½ staff retiring in next few years. Santa Paula annexation moving along as planned. Will be a big benefit to the citizens of VC

Jeff Wilkerson – Camp Pendleton Fire (Retired) – Camp just completed dozer school and wildland fire training. Museum

Steve Hoyle – ORCO Retired – California Fire Museum Project at the Irvine “Great Park”.

Fed Fire Ventura County –

Bill Ward – Pump Pod USA – Rolled out new pod designed for heli-spots. Several P.0.

Amir Emadi -Sky lift Global – Develops and builds Drones to deliver equipment to lines on wildland incidents. Has units able to build fire breaks. Has passion for developing products to help protect troops.

Jeff – Kapler Protective Hazmat suits. Specific PPE for white powdery substances (ei fentanyl etc.)

Joe Sposdao AllStar Fire Equipment – New SCOTT SCBA has a removable harness for cleaning and / or replacement. New SCOTT TIC is built into the facemask. Has new boots : HAIX, Danner. New sizing for gloves will be based on military standards beginning in August. Girth of glove, length of fingers etc.

Tracy Rabes – Line Gear – Has new boot by HAIX that is compliant but not certified due to the boots height.

Happy Fathers Day to dads.

Jerry Mertimer – Market PPE – Opening an ISP in Corona first week

Christina – Hero Wipes – Sells wipes for decontamination. Has product that decontaminates bio / ems materials.

Jordan  Evans – Solutions Safety / Citro-squezze – encourages on-line questions and dialog about use of their product . Next Run for mental health issues,.

Jim Evans – Solutions Safety / Citro-squzze – Thanks to LAFD for hosting and the presentation on UAV’s. Encourages gross decon and subsequent on-scene and station PPE decontamination programs. Suggests purchasing PPE extractors that are proven effective to insure carcinogins etc are

Bob Mercurio – AllStar Fire Equipment – Reminds personnel to clean helmet “Ratchets” and liners as well as hoods to reduce carcinogens. Use Dawn dishwashing liquid to clean hoods.

Jimmy Smith – Lead Docent African American Fire Museum (14th and Central) Open Tues and Thurs 10-2, Sunday 1-4. Center is available for events.

J Price LACoFD (Retired): Commented on today’s program. Thanked LAFD for event.

LAFD Having tower graduation in a couple more weeks.

Tony Duran – LACoFD Retired / NH3 Institute –

David Molnetti – Industrial Scientific Instruments – Offers help to all agencies

Jordan – Fillmore Fire – On a strike team to Montecito to assist on mud / debris flow.

Scott Ramirez – Fillmore Fire

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes -May 2018

SAFER Meeting 5/18/18 

Start 0940 Gurrola presiding , thank you to VCFD Chiefs for refreshments, lunch provided (Taco Man) – Louis Garcia and VVG Truck and Western States Fire Equip.

Present: K. Gurrola, IPP, T. Duran, Treasurer, T. Rabe, Social Media Director, J.Wilkerson, Board Member, R. Szczepanek, Board member, plus 32 (see roster)

Absent: S.Quinn (excused), D. Weise (excused), C. Seely (excused), J.Sposato (excused)

Pledge and MOS

BC Rob Szczepanek provided introduction to facility

Intro BC McNeil to VCFD facility and department and topic “Thomas Fire”, multiple presenters, Latigo facility, (1/30 VCFD facilities) - Welcome

Business meeting:

                Intro of SAFER, since 1976

                OSHA – no report, Tony gave overview of what to expect when an inspector arrives.  Keith talked about a recent incident of a person who had “cramping”, hospital diagnosed “dehydration” don’t use “heat stress or heat exhaustion” in your reports of FF injuries or they will initiate a Cal/OSHA inquiry.

                Apparatus – (Rob) new seats and LED lights in their rigs.  Keith – Fillmore FD is going away from SCBA seats and practicing a “clean cab” environment.  Many depts. are getting away from in-seat SCBA. The need for rapid donning is rare vs. Cancer exposure is quite high.  Jim recommended to get away from cloth seats for ease of cleaning.

                PPE/NFPA – Dick absent, Jason Rangel – specking out new uniform. SAFER to host PPE symposium maybe spring time.  Putting together a committee to put that together.  Resurrection of PPE on Traffic Collision incidents.  Most wear turnouts, made for structural FF.  Is there another garment better suited and less expensive?  May need a subcommittee to evaluate.  Dual compliant, EMS (Blood Borne Pathogen) compliant and flash fire protective.  Some agencies already using something.  Options are available.  Time to revisit, $$$ a factor.  NFPA 1851 going thru rewrite.  Will be a great document, 3 parts involved, one will be “onscene mitigation” also verified ISPs.  Higher level of evaluation.  How many departments are cleaning in house?  Need to go to ISP and ask if they are complying with clean regulations.  Will come out at end of 2018.  AB 2146 will begin (all about carcinogen consideration)

                Case study – VCFD FF went to TC, did not clean Turnouts before going to structure fire and turnouts ignited.  Rob S. also mentioned an incident where the left radio pocket burned away

                Vendor Rep – No report, next week EMS SHOW in Palm Springs area.

                Treasurer – Balances provide.  Dues payment available at meeting.  KG encouraged department membership.

                Technology – website being updated, FB and Twitter.  Travel mugs now available for sale on website.  FB – please “like”, Twitter – No Good, Instagram – OK

The Thomas Fire - 2018

Presentation: DC John McNeil,  Thomas Fire 2017 this presentation to be adapted to what safer is more of interest (Vendors, FF safety, etc.)

                Multiagency – over 8k FF and staff at top of incident

                VCFD Op area includes all agencies involved ( LE, fire, Feds, etc.) No boundaries – closest resource concept.   Not so in "old days”  now an integral part of all large incidents.  Partner agency relationships.

Ventura County Operational Area

                2 Public agency dispatch centers – Ventura County Sheriffs (LE) and FCC, communications always a factor in all incidents.  In this area this was successful as they work together on a regular basis daily.  In this multiagency incident they worked well together within the OP area.

                Partner Agencies began getting together well before the incident as they recognized potential weather.  Constant coordination created a mire successful outcome int his incident.  Coming together and talking before the incident occurs creates the potential for a better outcome.  Draw up agreements prior to the incident.

                Fire History:  Not new (map of area overlaid with current and previous fires).  Five-year Drought, “global warming” concept.  Largest fires in California, Ventura has had 3/top 11.

Ventura County Fire History

               Preparatory Actions:  Agency expectations, SA, exercise relationships, Investment in CICCS, Emergency plans manual.  Weather was expected, no real surprise when it arrived.  Some of magnitude was surprising, no past slides to compare with current situation.  Joint agency relationships are now common place and works well (challenge in the past).  CICCS qualifications played critical role placing qualified personnel in critical positions.  Must be committed well in advanced due to time it requires to become qualified.  Great investment!  BC Fred Burris first onscene and worked with people he recognized due to past training and exercises and incidents.  Successful in relation to no injuries, equipment protection, etc.  Emergency Plans allowed for appropriate pre-positioning before fire began.  Requires $$$ commitment by FC but paid off in this case.

                Initial actions:  Staffed up prior to, fire started Dec 4 at 6:30 (after dark) 

                Fire Progression – 63, 000 acres in first day, 32, 900+ acres on second day , peak at Dec 10th at 60,800 ac, lasting thru Dec 24th fro total of. Access was challenging as main road to Ojai (second start) was impacted, Hwy 150.

                Branch Mgt – Thesis by Mike Rohde, 122 pages with 15 Page summary.  Published in FH magazine and NFA curriculum.  Not used by many agencies.  ICS normally builds from “bottom – up” this concept turns on that.  Succession plan is critical for all agencies. KG given credit for foreseeing the need for the qualification of personnel before CICCS.  Departments have to commit to training their people in incident team training, FTX and incidents outside of local jurisdictions.  Newly hired talent often come with varied experiences that should be captured and used by the agencies that hired them. Use the talents that your personnel bring with them.

                There were situations where personnel were sent where they would be dependent 100%  on their PPE and safety gear for their survival.  Duty to act requires action even when risk is high.  Confidence in PPE is paramount!  Priority is to save lives, including the evacuation of personnel within apparatus.  Message for evacuation must get out early (only one part) executing the request is the key piece.  Success of execution was due to collocating key personnel (LE) in CP to execute the order.  Use the PA to get the word out, clear direction to the public were most successful.

                Lessons Learned:  Early resource orders, Draw your box quickly, regardless of fire conditions, Write on the map and communicate the box, Branch early, Gauge rates of spread to the impacts, early evacuation orders, Ability to disengage and redirect, Communicate mission, overall purpose and expected results, Don’t wait to bring partners into the the plan.

Lessons Learned

Early resource orders

•Draw your box quickly, build it regardless of fire conditions

•Get info down on the map and communicate the box

•Branch early

•Gauge the rates of spread to the impacts

•Early evacuation orders

•Ability to disengage and redirect

•Communicate the mission, the overall purpose and the expected results

•Don’t wait to bring partners into the plan

Final Tally

281,893 acres

1063 structures destroyed

280 structures damaged

2 fatalities

BC Mike Weisenburg talked about presentation re: “Oil Fire Seeps” oil fire subsurface and how they were able to control. 

Tour of facility

Round Table:

Keith problems with Drip-Drop – deal with individual's fitness

Tony ASTI continues to provide training to refrigeration and agriculture industry  personnel, as well as, emergency responders for Anhydrous Ammonia leaks.  LACoFD to accept applications in June.

Oxnard FD – All going well

Steve Hoyle – CA Fire Museum San Diego

Jeff Wilkerson - ret CPFD, VP with museum

Jason Rangel VCFD – gross decon policies, researching respiratory protection in wildland

Hector Garica – looking at hoods, prevent from vetter (?)

Christina Hero WipeRes (decon wipes) launched last October . Lab testing behind wipes proving efficacy

Tyler Miller VCFD – fire controller with wildland division.  PPE during saws nicked himself but chaps saved him from serious injury.  "Get rid of “two-strap” chaps" - K. Gurrola

Steve Swindoll VCFD –

Steve Cooley Cobra litter – good for victim extraction and moving equipment up to 800 #

Mike Schlaggs – inventor of COBRA litter, stretcher add on. Adding super-fabric for motorcycle gear to prevent chaffing and rat damage (during storage).  All things developed through FF input

Amir – Skylift (UAV) ran tests with SDFD with delivery of hose packs.  Cut time in half.

KG – next month LAFD meeting and UAV presentation.

Jim Evans (solutions safety) – gross decon kits exploding across the country.  Take look at configuration – 'square instead of round' fit better in rigs.  Huge trend in used turnout gear and hose being turned into inside plastic gear (souvenir items).  Tests run which turn water black, these products are being taken into homes.  Coasters made of old fire hose turned water black.  CLEAN YOUR GEAR!

Bestways LS – ERIC

Louis Garcia – Weastern fire apparatus – issues with evacuation requires building relationships prior to evacuation need

Tracy Rabe - Linegear – new Mystery Ranch modular fire web gear.

Kelly Witt - Workrite – based in Oxnard, Oct 1 purchased by BF 1.  Workrite will remain in tact and in good hands. HQ moving to Nashville, Oxnard plant will shut down but product will continue.  Kelly will continue to be SoCal representative.

Steve Hanks SCOTT rep for SoCal – released new SCBA,built on trusted features with slight tweaks.  New harness now removable without tools for easy cleaning.

Pete Jensen VCFD HMC – nothing to add, exercise May 22nd with Port Hueneme. May 23rd is MAST EXPO in Pt Hueneme corporate office, designed for vendors mainly related to port security.

Chuck Pike VCFD

James Allen warehouse sup for VCFD

Jim Roth Storm King Mtn tech – fire barrier curtains, during evacuations in Australia, eight civilians sheltered inside fire engines with fire curtains survived.  Rain dance aerial incendiary machine in UAV recently approved in Australia.  Working to get approved in USA.  Looking for instructors for wildland fire instructors per NCWG standards. Beginning a new fire academy

Charlie Turansky with LN Curtis – new wildland, particulate hoods, taskforce tips has decon kit (new) LACOFD testing

Rob Szczepanek

Rob McNeil – long duration effort to decon during long term incidents will be helpful.

Shawn Feeney VCFD IT –

Jeff Shade VCFD

Bill Ward – Pump Pods – Firehouse world delivered fire unit and full demo, featured in CSFA magazine.  Glendale just submitted orders.  FFW meeting introduced dip tank and portable cistern system

Rick Holman ALLSTAR –

Mike Weisenberg VCFD – Should be seeing more of VCFD personnel at SAFER meetings, FF Academy going thru now, new BC test, engineers academy in September, captains academy in fall, gearing up for new fire season.  Welcoming Santa Paula into VCFD mold. 

Presentation mug to DC McNeil by Keith

Lunch, vendor visit and tour of facility.

Meeting adjourned 11:45 hours.

Next meeting:  LAFD at Frank Hotchkins.

Respectfully submitted,

Tony Duran, Treasurer, acting secretary

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - April 2018

San Miguel Consolidated Fire Protection District

SAFER Meeting Minutes

April 20, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees:   President Quinn, Past President Gurrola, Seely, VP Weise, Wilkerson, Szczepanek , Communications / Social Media Liaison Rabe   

San Miguel Fire Consolidated Fire Protection District Sta 15  – Admin Headquarters

2850 Via Orange Way, Spring Valley, CA 91978

1000    Meeting called to order – President Quinn opened the meeting and related the meeting agenda and introduced Fire Chief Brainard who welcomed the attendees and related he recently learned 61% of FF deaths are from Cancer and encouraged the fire service to improve that number. Chief Marugg who led the pledge of allegiance and moment of silence then introduced David Picone the SDFD – Health and Safety Officer.   

• Thanks to San Miguel Fire for the morning hospitality and MES / Fire Etc for lunch.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – Updated the meeting attendees on the status of the NFPA 1877 standard development. This proposed “Wildland SCAM” document will include a “performance” standard for fire shelters. How clean is clean? Single Layer concept is a current”1977” topic and is often adopted by agencies. New wildland gear is much lighter, more comfortable but offer superior protection. Dick related the issue of cross-contamination and the methods used to limit / eliminate risks to crews and the public.

• Public input is currently available on-line for 1877 standard.

CalOSHA –  No committee report available.

Apparatus – Rob – Related he is now monitoring the Fire Mechanics forum.  

 Safety and Training- No specific committee report.

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – Given by B/C Guinn for Tony Duran – Reminder to please pay your annual dues!

Communications – Tracy / Tony:

Vendor Liaison – Gabe for Joe, FDIC this week. FH World will be in LA next year.

*FDIC is at the end of April 27, 28 & 29 in Indianapolis.  

Program: General Decon and Best Practices to Keep Gear and Crews Clean

Chief Marugg – Dave Picone SDFD H&S Officer & FF Truver

Video showing “contamination” (shaving cream) and the numerous routes common PPE contamination can take into the workplace. (from SFFD). The contrast was shown between “no decon” and “proper decontamination”.   

PowerPoint

Chief Marugg related the agencies period as a CalFire affiliate and explained the evolution of new procedures / sog’s since reformation as an independent consolidated agency. Related recent injuries / illnesses experienced by crews at various incidents.

Described their migration to new PPE ensembles under wildland scenarios and related the various techniques and methods being employed to protect crews from known carcinogens and toxics.  

Chief Marugg introduced San Diego Fire & Rescue Health and Safety Officer, Dave Picone, who related the new techniques /methods being employed by SDFD in concert with their Relief Association. (CAP Program)

• Two sets of PPE, two sets of hoods and B/C carries a cache of hoods for replacement as required.

• Extractors being installed

• Wipes for “in-field decontamination”- on rigs, in stations, with decon units.

Chief Dave Picone introduced FF Truver who explained the components of their new H & S procedures. (FF Truver is the secretary of the Relief Association)

Posters from the SDFD workplace(s) were distributed to attendees showing the “Three C’s” – Clean Air - Clean Body –Clean Gear”:

Clean Air:

• SCBA used Throughout Overhaul

• 100% Exhaust Extractor use

• Mindful of exhaust flow

Clean Body:

• Gross Decontamination

• Action Wipes

• Strip Down and Bag Turnouts

• Shower ASAP

Clean Gear:

• New Hood

• Break Turnouts apart & wash

• Use Citro-Squeeze

• Run and empty load after PP washing

• Rotate crews during overhaul

• Consider remaining assigned to incident after released for personal decontamination as needed

• Prolonged incident , most contaminated back to quarters for personal decontamination

After exiting a fire environment they remove their helmet and hood, wipe down face and neck with cleansing wipes to reduce the amount of carcinogens in contact with the vulnerable skin surface(s). FF Cancer in the lymph nodes is a major illness in our population.  The goal is to remove as much of the “heavy metals” from the skin. (Learned from Military experience handling munitions)

The typical equipment provided to every unit was demonstrated:

• Citro-Squeeze spray bottle

• Cleansing Wipes

• Brush(s)

• Bags to capture contaminated PPE

• Spare Hoods (in bag)

Discussions are ongoing for adopting specific methods into the Wildland scenario – Type 3 units. Crews at stations with Type 3 units are issued two sets of Wildland jackets, one of pants.

BC Quinn explained the long term effort is to reduced risks incrementally, big issues first then continue solve the smaller issues while moving towards “best practices” in all areas.

SDFD is reviewing data from previous years:

• Hoods

• Boots (rubber vrs leather)

• Illnesses

• Injuries  

• IAFC Safety Stand-down Week of 6/17/2018

1045 Meeting to venders in apparatus bay

1120 Round Table:

Scott Quinn- Bat Chief LAFD: (4 yrs risk mgmt, litigation etc.) Feel free to call if he can help with any agencies H&S program. Related recent accidents at LAFD  (1) Dozer roll-over, (2) structure fire with a propane tank BLEVE.

Jeff Wilkerson – Camp Pendleton Fire – Related personal experiences with Ca in his fire “family”. Thanked SG and complimented SDFD for its wellness efforts.

Miamonte – Drone manufacture, can haul hose, other logistical items to crews via UAV’s.

Rameriz – Filmore Fire PIO – nothing to add.

Rob Szczepanek -  Ventura County Fire – Conducting a “Whole Dept.” review of Thomas Fire “lessons learned”.

Dick Weise - LACoFD – Relate AB2146 is being pushed through legislature – requires NFPA standard(s) adoption. LACoFD is going to morning pride PPE. LACoFD is expecting lots of turnover in the next few years. Will be adding Station 100 in one of the beach cities later this year.

Brian Bulger – Retired Ventura Co.

Kieth Gurrola – Fillmore Fire – June 30 is their golf tournament, Looking for used TIC’s and Gas Monitors. Needs some new “used” Type 6 engines.

Bill Ward – Pump Pod USA – Sacramento will be delivering unit(s) , 15 quotes out, several agencies are committed to purchase. Is demonstrating their units are numerous venues.

Jim – Viejas reservation – Hiring medics.

National city FD – Took over PPE officer 9 months ago and is learning a lot from other local agencies. Is seeing changes in old H&S culture towards a more healthy

Mark Beverage – National City- Discussed the changes being made in favor of better H&S. Complimented his PPE Captain on his contributions. Related his superiors are learning the benefits

Dave Picone – SDFD – Related they are developing a LOOD procedure / policies and are looking for other agencies programs.  B/C Quinn related LAFD’s experiences with “LOOD Investigations”and the importance of assistance of other agencies with expertise in specific areas.

Rich Smith – Lakeside FD – Discussed compatibility of various SCBA’s “Buddy Breather” fittings. Rich related  the issue in light of other department’s equipment not being connectable.  Cancer on forehead and in the groin area are the most common in the firefighter demographic. .

Brent Waddy – Lakeside Fire – Works in PPE are with Rich.

Chris – Lakeside FD – Has taken over PPE program from a retiring Captain several years ago. Lakeside is trying to stay on track with H&S “best practice’s in the fire service. Related the SDFD has been a big benefit to the area in this area.

Jordan Evans – Citro-Squeeze- Related they are now on Facebook, Twitter etc. network the H&S messages. Recommended a “decon kit” shown in the vender area.

Jim Evans – Citro Squeeze – Jim related the company’s growth in the field of H&S over the last 25 years. Added clean gear is for more than just Cancer, but many other illnesses and diseases.

Paul Laker – VF Workwear – Purchased Workrite Uniforms. Kelly Whitt will still be with the company.

Eric Higgins – Uni-Mac Extractor Sales – Complimented SG CFPD – Related new capabilities and features available to comply with 1851

Steve -  Scott Representative for Southern California. NFPA is working to standardize the RIC / Buddy Breathing connection. Complimented SDFD on their Ca / Health Program. Added the new Scott air pack has a fully removable waist belt and harness ensemble for washing in an extractor.

Gabe – AllStar Fire Equipment – PPE August – All PPE must meet 2018 standard, exception – may ship product within its 10 year like span.

Bill Black – Safety Components – Manufacture of Nomex for belt / harness ensemble for SCOTT SCBA’s. Introduced a new 5 ½ oz fabric (sigma) for wildland gear (1977 standard) that is very comfortable and Brian – San Miguel Fire -durable.

Brian  - San Miguel fire – Nothing to add.

Bill - MES – Represents Scott and Morning Pride PPE

Chase Powell – SoCal PPE – Appreciates the networking

Scott - Fire Etc – Retired CalFire , Started SoCal PPE after a Cancer diagnosis and subsequent retirement. Has Decon Kits available for gross decon on rigs. The “Kit” Contains tools and cleaning solutions for decontamination for around $100 to produce your own.

Chief Marugg – Thanked the venders for contributions to the SAFER group.

Next meetings:

Ventura Co FD – Regional Training Center – Thomas Fire, Oil patch fire. May 18th .

LAFD – Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center - UAV Program – June 15th

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Meeting adjourned: 1200

            SAFER April 20, 2018

San Miguel Consolidated Fire Protection District

Agency / Co                             NAME                          PHONE #                                 EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)                        Chuck Seely                 (949) 492-7993                       firebiz@att.net

Quala-Tel                                Frank Uram                 8585772900                            furam@qualatel.com

Bestway Laundry Solutions     Eric Higgins                 1-800-542-6166                      sales@bestwayls.com

Camp Pendleton Fire ret        .Jeff Wilkerson                        949-830-087                            jwilker@cox.net

kmclaughlin@glendaleca.gov

LineGear Rire & Rescue Equipmen    tTracy Rabe     949-230-5610                          tracy@linegear.com

Workrite                                  paul laker                    9513170606                            paul_laker@vfc.com

Fire-Etc                                    Scott Estrada               6194033442                            estrada@fire-etc.com

MES                                         Bill Zamudio                6197261050                            bzamudio@mesfire.com

AllStar Fire Equip.                   Gabe Sayegh               6262550431                            gabeallstar@gmail.com

Mark Sheldone            760-505-3473                          msheldone@sbcglobal.net

LineGear Fire & Resque Equipment   Tracy Rabe      949-230-5610                          tracy@linegear.com

National City FD                      Matthew Lucas           619-599-3038                          mlucas@nationalcityca.gov

LACoFD                                    Dick Weise                  951-807-1914              RWEISELACOFD@YAHOO.COM

San Miguel Fire & Rescue      Brian Bayne                619-654-3746                          bbayne@sanmiguelfire.org

SoCal PPE                                Chase Powell               619-733-3808                          chase@socalppe.com

Lakeside Fire Prot Dist            Richard Smith             6193902350                            medicrich4194@gmail.com

Lakeside Fire Prot Dist            Brent Watte                6193902350                            brentwatte@gmail.com

Naitonal City Fire Dept           Mark Beveridge          6193364555                mbeveridge@nationalcityca.gov

Lakeside Fire Prot Dist            Chris Downing             619-390-2362              cdowning@lakesidefire.com

Viejas Fire Dept                      JimBingham                619-743-1863              jbingham@viejas-nsn.gov

PumpPodUSA                          Bill Ward                     949-246-6999              bill@pumpodusa.com

CitroSqueeze                           Jordan Evans               619-607-5305              jordane@solutionssafety.com           

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - February 2018

Glendale Fire Department

SAFER Meeting Minutes

February 16, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees:  Past President Duran , President Quinn, Seely, Snider, Past President Gurrola, Szczepanek , Vendor Liaison Sposato, Communications / Social Media Liaison Rabe   

Glendale Fire Department Sta 21 – Admin Headquarters

1000    Meeting called to order – President Quinn opened the February 2018 SAFER meeting and introduced Glendale Fire Department Deputy Chief Bill Lynch who  welcomed SAFER and began the meeting by leading the pledge of allegiance. He related Glendale Fire Department provides “all risk”  services to 32 square miles with 9 engine companies, 3 truck companies (4 man staffing - P/M Engines with private EMT-1s for transport). Glendale Fire Department is “A full service, all risk department”.  Thanks to Glendale Fire Department for hosting the February  2018 meeting of SAFER. Deputy Chief Lynch introduced the Glendale staff officers in attendance: Verdugo Fire Communications Deputy Chief lanzas, BC Chris Stavros A Platoon, Jeff Brooks Local Union President.

President Quinn related the recent improvements to the website and the move towards a new sign-in process.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – No NFPA report – Dick unavailable due to injury. Is at home reviewing select NFPA standards the NFPA is considering.

CalOSHA –  No committee report available. President related “What to do if CalOSHA comes knocking”. He related some of the characteristics a CalOSHA inspection that everyone should be aware of before allowing an inspection to begin.

Apparatus – No specific committee report.

 Safety and Training- No specific committee report.

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – Doing OK, can take membership renewals here at meeting. Improvements on the website – let him know if you have any suggestions. Thanks to Tracy and Tony for work on the website.

Communications – Tracy / Tony:

Vendor Liaison – March 5, 6 & 7 Firehouse World in San Diego. This is the last year in San Diego, will be in Los Angeles beginning in 2019. Will be a three day FH World when it comes to LA. Joe believes the LA FH World will be a big improvement – second only to the FDIC.  Joe reminded everyone planning to attend FH World – San Diego to register on-line for free passes to show display floor as there will be an admission fee for those without advanced registration.  Pre-registration is free on-line, $25.00 at the door. President related the LAFD Chief has related to his staff that the FH World event will be a huge attraction with large participation.

Behavioral Health report: President Quinn related a wellness / behavioral program element will be added to our “Standing Committee”.

*FDIC is at the end of April 27, 28 & 29 in Indianapolis.  

Program: “Three Strikes, You’re Out” – Hazard Warning Standard

Brian Bulger – Retired Ventura County, FIRESCOPE Safety Specialist – Safety Subcommittee Chair, Type I Safety Officer, CA Interagency IMT Team (CIIMT) 4.

PowerPoints: (1) Tradgedy – Mark McCormack

                        (2) Train the trainer

                        (3) Self Taught Program

Related Gordon Crane (Unit Leader at a fire that involved LOOD’s) spoke at a meeting where a breakdown in communications and missed situational awareness resulted in the deaths of crew members in his command. 

Robert Saleb – Survivor of “Man Gulch Fire” @ age 17. Described his experience at that fire where the balance of the crew were killed. The  “10 Standard Fire Fighting Orders” were written after three fires : Rattlesnake Fire, The Man-Gulch Fire and ____.

PowerPoints:

(1) Mark McCormack – Santa Clara County Fire Department in bay area. Mark worked his way through several California Fire Departments, received several community awards and participated in agency committees. He was a frequent volunteer for community / fire service related initiatives.  

(2) Train the Trainer PP: Developed to help agencies state wide to utilize the “Tree Stripes, You’re Out” standard by Santa Clara County.

Swiss cheese Theory:

The US Air Force has a theory that it takes seven mistakes / errors to allow an accident to occur. The concept that when considering the ability of light to show through as multiple layers of cheese slices are added. Such is the likelihood of errors / omissions can add together to allow an accident to occur.

The specifics of the incident that Mark McCormack lost his life were related by the speaker using a plot plan of the property showing the location of the house and 12 KV powerlines above. The house had “packrat” conditions, well involved in fire in the darkness of night. Same crew had been to this address before on other responses. The Branch 1 Director and safety officer had knowledge of the 12 KV line that had fallen across the driveway from the power lines above, at about chest height. The Safety Officer laid out yellow tape to mark the hazard on the ground. Communications had dialogue about the power line over the tactical frequency. There was large fire flow being used to attack the structure fire which drained into the area of the downed wire(s). The victim had left the immediate area to get a new air bottle. A crew member walking through the area related he felt something hit his helmet as he walked through the hazard area – failed to contact enough to “go to ground”. A company member tried to prop the line back into the tree with a fiberglass pole to make a corridor to work through – he also didn’t go to ground. Mark walked by himself to look for a fellow crewmember and came into direct contact with the 12 KV for about 20 seconds. Damage to his gear showed the metal in his boots had melted into the concrete. CalOSHA sited Santa Clara County for several issues.

This was the incident that started the “Three Strikes, You’re Out” Hazard Identification Procedure.

The speaker demonstrated the use of the “single safety tape” as a safety barrier: It is met to keep “unauthorized personnel out” - most public safety personnel don’t honor the barrier tape to “them “as emergency workers.

The clearly identifiable method to assure that emergency personnel

President Quinn related a “Green Sheet” that LAFD has from an accident (façade collapse) that they are currently investigating. Injured 5, 3 with Fx bones.

***OSHA Check sheet(s) are available on line. They can be long and tedious but can be helpful.

CalOSHA will usually default to “General Industry Standards” when considering citations after an incident

***”The Three Strikes” Standard will be in the FIRESCOPE FOG manual and in NIIMS in next publication.

An issue with “Wildland Incidents” - where a hazard exists but can’t be effectively marked using “Three Strikes” techniques was discussed. In these incidents the hazard should be in all  Safety Statements, Morning Briefings, and clearly communicated to all incident participants.   

The standard is meant to be “all hazard” so any “color” of tape is acceptable but RED / BLACK is recommended when available.

The intent is that a method is used to communicate hazards to emergency workers by a clearly identifiable standard.   

1100 Meeting to venders

1145 Round Table:

Scott Quinn- Bat Chief LAFD: Recruiting beginning - look at LAFD website. Recommends beginning candidates apply and experience the process. Working to organize a seminar RE: FF CA Support Network, PPE Maintenance. 

Brian Bulger – Thanked the group for hosting the meeting on the Three Strikes initiative.

Keith Gurrola – Fire Chief Fillmore City – Looking to purchase some equipment items: (TIC) and gas monitors. Training is available in RENO for wildland.

Russ Snider ORCO – Recruit class just started 48 people, 10 new Type 1 Engines…

Kelly Witt – Workrite Uniform Co.- Will be at FH World

Jim Evans – Solutions Safety – Related 1851 is being finalized with strong language for equipment use for cleaning and defining decontamination types / levels / methods for various types of exposures. ISP’s will likely have to demonstrate effectiveness of their cleaning services. The “How clean is Clean?” questions discussed.

Jordon Evans – Solutions Safety- Related her position at SS, wants to develop as a reference source for the fire service.

Joe Sposato – AllStar – SCOTT EX3 PRO harness can be removed and laundered easily. Next SCBA change is supposed to make all SCBA’s inter-connectable for “buddy breathing” connections. NFPA chose the DRAGER connection which nobody in the Fire Service uses. 62% of all SCBA’s in US are SCOTT. This standard will likely be held up to remedy this issue.  

Lolo Hernandez – Acct Manager – Christian Brothers Mechanical Services (Nedermean Vehicle Exhaust Removal System)s – Related their company sells / installs exhaust removal systems – newest system allows faster response from station and is based on a magnetic link / connection.

Eric Higgins - Bestway Laundry Solutions:  Has equipment for PPE laundering, extractors, installation, service and coordination with Solutions Safety for Injector pumps. Will be at FH World.

Jack Koltaj – Fed Fire Ventura County – Changing PPE from silvers to structure fire turnouts.

Gail Mills – Scott Mills Prints - Thanks crews for work on recent fires, related her family has property in the fire area. Have posters for fire / law with individual identifiers / personalization’s for wall decoration. 

Mark Sheldone - Days Off Consultants – Related the products / lines Days Off represents.

Tracy Rabes – Line Gear – Related her product lines for wildland PP and FF gear

Bill Ward – Pump-pod USA – Related the uses / benefits  his test / fire flow trailer offers to fire / water agencies: Water conservation, Engineer Training – Testing, Pump Testing.

Mike Weisenberg – Ventura County Fire – Discussed the aftermath of the Thomas Fire his agency is working through. Related the Pump-Pod was very beneficial to engineer candidates who took their recent promotional test process. New recruit process will be starting soon. Getting two BlackHawk Helicopters. Annexation with Santa Paula is ongoing.

Hector Gonzales – Ventura County Fire –

Jim Cleary – Plymovent – Related the “Plymovent System” is widely used throughout the regional fire agencies.

Ashly Silcott – Curtis Fire Equipment – PPE Specialist - Related they will be at FH World.

Charles Turansky – Curtis – Showed new boot they will be showcasing at FH World. He discussed their hood product(s) with excellent performance numbers.

Louis Garcia – Western States Fire Equipment – Thanked Glendale for hosting, related the issue with plastic hoses mentioned last meeting that failed under fire condition’s during the recent wildland events.

Bob Mercurio – AllStar Fire – Discussed hood selections available through AllStar, demonstrated a new flexible light they’re showcasing. Will be at FH World.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Meeting adjourned: 1200

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - January 2018

SAFER Meeting Minutes

January 19, 2018

SAFER Board Attendees:  Past President Duran , President Quinn, VP Wiese  Wilkerson, Seely, Past President Gurrola, Szczepanek , Vendor Liaison Sposato   

Vernon Fire Department Station 1 - Training Center

Vernon FD Live Fire Training Facility

0935    Meeting called to order – President Quinn, Fire Chief Bruce English welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting  relating some unique features and the history of the Vernon Fire Department. He related the importance of “safety” issues in this highly industrial city. He revealed the department will be losing about 40% of his personnel in the next few years which is a significant “Safety Issue” for the agency.  Thanks to Vernon Fire Department for hosting the January Meeting of SAFER, use of the facility and continental breakfast / coffee hospitality.  

Past President Duran related the recent improvements to the website and the move towards a new sign-in process.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise – The NFPA 1851 Committee met in LA last week. He related the importance of top quality PPE as seen in the recent fire experiences in Southern California.

New “Wildland” PPE (NFPA 1877) coming soon. Best practices for SCAM. Discussed each article of the ensemble must be laundered / inspected at least once a year.NFPA 1877 Committee will be meeting in Roleihle, NC later this year.

Helmets must be cleaned, liners removed and cleaned or replaced as need to remove toxins from the unit. Gloves cleaning and standards of cleanliness are being looked at for future 1851 standards.

“How clean is Clean?” It will take years to get where we need to get to our “best practices” goals.

ISP requirements were discussed

CalOSHA –  No committee report available.

Vender Liaison – Firehouse world first week in March in San Diego (Last time in San Diego). Apparatus – Ventura County related their experience in vehicle maintenance areas at the recent Thomas Fire Incident. They had a number of plastic air-line “burn trough’s” on various apparatus after exposure to flame contact. They are placing “covers” over the lines (brake lines etc.) Cost is around $100/ rig to protect these vulnerable plastic lines which can take an apparatus out of service. Vender related they are going to offer replacement materials to replace the plastic.

Safety and Training:

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer – New year, please pay your annual dues. $1837 in checking acct / $ in Savings acct.  Scott related we’d like to present a “thank-you” item to hosting agencies / presenters this year.

Communications – Tracy / Tony:

Vendor Liaison – March 5, 6 & 7 Firehouse World in San Diego. This maybe the last year in San Diego. Joe reminded everyone planning to attend to register on-line for free passes to show display floor as there will be an admission fee for those without advanced registration.  Pre-registration is free on-line, $25.00 at the door. 

*FDIC is at the end of April 27, 28 & 29 in Indianapolis.  

Next Meeting : Glendale Fire Department -  Feb 17th.

Program: “The Vernon Fire Department Training Center ”

Vernon FD Burn Training Facility

**Demonstration of the new Vernon Ventilation Prop

B/C Painton took the group on a tour of the several training (HazMat, Fire Control, Flash-over room, USAR) disciplines designed into this “SHSGP” Grant prop.  

**Insert Vernon Docs Here:

Informational Outline:

Funding

•          UASI Grant

•          HSGP Grant

•          City of Vernon

13.5 Containers

•          First floor- 6 Containers

•          Second Floor- 4 containers

•          Third Floor- 3 Container

•          Fourth Floor- ½ Container to roof access

Fire Training

•          Total of 5 burn areas

•          Propane fueled props

•          (2) 500 gallon propane storage tanks

•          Meets or exceeds NFPA 1402

First Floor

•          Two burn rooms

•          One roll-over hall way

•          Haz Mat Ammonia room- Leaks to pipes and valves

•          Office area

•          Interior staircase

•          HM Storage Room- High pressure gas cylinders, 55 gallon drums, totes and rack storage

•          Ceiling access to Nance prop

Second Floor

•          One Burn Room

•          One roll-over hallway

•          Rack Storage

•          Denver Window

•          Floor/Ceiling access for Nance Prop

•          Shallow pitch ventilation prop on exterior

•          Steep pitch ventilation prop on exterior

Third Floor

•          Fire Ground Survival\SCBA Confidence Maze with moveable walls

•          Balcony area open to exterior for ladder training

•          Floor access to Nance prop

•          Empty room for future improvement

•          Interior staircase

Fourth Floor

•          ½ container for roof access

•          Interior staircase

•          Storage

Roof Deck

•          Reinforced expanded metal decking to accommodate personnel

•          Anchor points for rope rescue training

•          Removable gate for rope rescue

Window\Doors above first floor

•          Anchor points above for belay\main line rope application

Exterior Staircase

•          Stairs to roof deck

•          Platform at each entry point to all floors

•          Standpipe with outlets at each floor

Roundtable:

Brett Nunez – Torrance Fire – Recently got approval for two new extractors with $ from a federal grant.

John Harget – Ventura City Fire – Installing air scrubbers in all facilities, has done a cleaning of all facilities.

Tony Durran – LACoFD Retired / NH3 Institute – Provides training on handling Ammonia emergencies. 

David Mol – Industrial Scientific Instruments – Offers help to all agencies

Dick Weise LACoFD - related the effects of toxic smoke of FF Health. LACoFD Is having a new selection process for new FF’s. Squad was recently stolen while left running outside an emergency call. PPE contamination is a health concern for FF’s and the public we contact and transport.  

Mike Whitney – Battalion Chief Downey Fire – RTF 2 returning from Montecito today, related extensive support of recent wildland incidents. Downey will be buying “Wildland Helmets” for members who go on active incidents. Downey is  planning to implement a “single layer” pants (two per member).DFD has  7 recruits in recruit tower, having problems getting good candidates with FF-1 & EMT-P certification to apply.

Eric Higgins – Best-Way Laundry Solutions – Will be at FireHouse World , will show Scanning / Logging software for agencies PPE tracking needs.

Russ Snider – OCFA – Related their recent academy experiences as several quit / failed / hired by another dept.

Benita Beeman - MarKen - ISP is now in Corona on Grand Blvd. Currently in Las Vegas.

Keith Gurrola – Fillmore Fire – Looking for checklists for Hoods, Gloves to solicit input from members. Looking for monitors.  Lost a monitor / defibrillator off tailboard. Door left open on rig which caused some damage.

Jordan – Fillmore Fire – On a strike team to Montecito to assist on mud / debris flow.

Scott Ramirez – Fillmore Fire.

John Price - MES / Honeywell – Thanks Chief English for hosting.

Tracy Rabe – LineGear – Has wildland equipment and is working with certification process for multiple NFPA classifications.

Frank – Communications – Related the “wind-screens” on radio microphones are a source of droplet contamination. Replacement or/or cleansing should be included in routine maintenance for employee wellness. 

Mark Shelton – Retired

Gabe – AllStar Fire Equipment – Related select Gear / Equipment currently available through AllStar Fire Equipment Company.

Bill Ward – Pump – Related uses of the pump-pod us which is on display behind Vernon Fire Station.

Joe Sposato – AllStar Fire Equipment – Related Scott is releasing a new cover for web harness that is removable for cleaning. New particulate reducing hood is being manufactured with new fabric with color-coded Inside/outside indicators. Recommended writing name on outside to better differentiate inside from outside.

Rob Mercurio – AllStar Fire – New employee, formerly from Turn-Out Maintenance Company.

Rob Szczepanek – Ventura County Fire – Related the department is recovering from the recent Thomas Fires. Will be buying two Blackhawk Helicopters, Pump Pods, Rain Gear.

Jim Evans – Solutions Safety – Related he’d used the burn rooms at TEEX and immediately sent the gear through the extractor station which the VERNON prop doesn’t require because the propane fueled prop’s represent no toxic hazard.

Jim Cleary – Plymovent – Related their system is widely used by the members of SAFER agencies. Related the AFG Grant is current open for submittals. Systems over ten years old qualify for replacement.

Louie Garcia – Western States Fire Equipment – Changing company name “  has new glove for review.

Kelly Whitt – Workrite Garments – Has been busy the last few years with single layer gear program and new NFPA certification standards.

Jordan Evans – Solutions Safety – Marketing for the company.

Fed fire Ventura County – Sent rigs to Thomas Fire and Montecito Incident.

Tom Wilson – CalFire Riverside – Dual academies running, 6 new soap pumps installed on their extractors, install HCN monitors in several stations to monitor gear. CalFire Riverside has contracted out for gas monitoring device calibration / maintenance. Had a Greensheet report for a FF burn injury during interior attack. Purchasing 50 hoods for a test batch – might use Survey Monkey to seek input from other agencies.

Steve Colley – Cobra Litters – Related capabilities of the Cobra Litter product including the characteristics of the “balloon tires” on the units as well as unique configurations for specific missions.

Scott Quinn – LAFD is opening a new hiring process, is a lengthy process. Three accident investigations currently on-going in the LAFD: (1) Façade dropped on some crew members, (2) a dozer roll-over and (3) a injury burn propane tank rupture while doing structure protection at a recent fire.

Jeff Wilkerson – Pendleton Retired – 1-800-Board-Up

Steve Hoyle – OCFA (Retired) – CA Fire museum

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Meeting adjourned: 1200

SAFER Board Meeting - January 2018

SAFER Annual Board Meeting 

January 4, 2018

AllStar Fire Equipment 0900 Hours

Board Members present: Gurrola, Quinn, Duran, Wilkerson, Tracy Rabe, Weise, Sposato, Seely, Szczepanek

Scott Quinn related issues he has observed during the past year that he’d like to improve on:

·         Meeting attendance

·         Late Topic Selection (Last minute scramble)

·         Host Agency preparation / coordination

Board member selection / rotation:

The Board Make-Up was discussed, History of the positions and rotations as per the By – Laws.

Slate going forward:

·         Even Year President

·         VP Odd Year

·         Immediate Past President-

·         Secretary – Even

·         Treasurer – Odd

·         Communications – Tracy Rabe

·         Vendor Liaison -

Board Members:

·         Scott Hudson will contact – (Was contacted and wants to remain on the board)

Discussion on the scope of the “OSHA” report should be focused on fire service.

·         Rick Griggs – Replaced by Barry Owens

·         Johnny Cardenas – Replaced by Adam Grandos LAFD

·         Scott Shuster – Maybe Hosting a meeting “Route 66 Shooting”

·         Russ Snider – OCFA

·         Mike Klusyk – SBCo

·         Andy Vansciver – Santa Paula – (Declined joining the board after direct contact)

A group discussion on the board composition, depth and positions in terms of numbers concluded with the suggestion we maintain the four as stated in the by-laws (two year terms) PLUS the Vendor Liaison. Scott related board member monthly meeting attendance is important as a gauge of program commitment.  Directors must be re-affirmed every two years – should begin the process in October +/_. Terms run on a calendar year basis. Officers must be elected by the members at large per the by-laws.

Even Year Slate:

President – Nominations:

ü  Scott Quinn – 1st Dick Weise –2nd Tony Duran

                                Unanimous Aye

ü  V-P (Scott Was V-P, Vacancy for 1 Year) – Dick Weise – 1st Jeff Wilkerson, 2nd Tony Duran

                                Unanimous Aye

ü  Secretary - – Chuck Seely – 1st Quinn, 2nd Tony Duran

Unanimous Aye

ü  Vendor Liaison:         Joe Sposato – 1st Tony Duran, 2nd Seely

Ed Schabro –  (Was added to Board of Directors after direct contact by Tony)

                                Unanimous for Joe Sposato

Odd Year Slate:

·         Vice President –

Member Roster has 185 names that opened emails that Tony sent out. Keith related he believes we could build a "Master List” with a “check box” to speed up sign-ins and improve communication. Will develop an improved sign-in document for January Meeting in Vernon.

Scott Recommended we conduct an audit of membership to define who’s in and who’s out (members and vendors) and to support SAFER with annual dues.

Scott related that we will announce the “accountability programs” we’re now conducting, such as who’s attending meetings, opening their emails and who’s paid their annual membership dues.

Master Calendar on web-site

Reach out to agencies – OES, CSFA both have listings of all California Agencies.

Northern Boundary: Santa Barbara County, San Louis Obispo County

Financials:

Tony updated the group on status of web-site venders (squarespace, go-daddy, stripe etc.) and explained the relationships / services each provides. Keith related the need to update signature cards for each account / subscription.

FF First Credit Union: as of 1-2-2018, checking $XXX Savings $XXX. (Amounts available on request, please contact SAFER Treasurer)

Tony related we’d be filing our Tax Returns as a “Non-Profit” Corporation for the last two years.

Meeting Schedule for 2018:

Jan – LACoFD @ Vernon FD  

Feb – Fillmore (or a bay city substitution)

March – CalFire – Ben Clark

April – San Miguel

May – Ventura County – Thomas Fire

June – LAFD – Drones?

July - AllStar

August – OCFA / No Meeting? Russ Snider

September -  PPE Symposium  - Large Venue, Working Group To Be Assigned:

                Tony, Michele Trout (Lion Uniform),

                Scott suggested combining several relevant topics:

·         SCAM (NFPA 1851)

·         Wildland PPE (Single layer)

·         Behavioral Health

·         NFPA / CPF “How Clean is Clean”

·         Plan for 200 plus

October – Carlsbad

November - SBCFD

December – SFS Fire-Rescue - Contact Haywood ASAP to ensure December

** Cast a net for a meeting at one of the beach cities: Carlsbad, Newport, Glendale, Clark County (LV)

Meeting Topics:

**PPE SCAM, CalFire Hosted, Venders put on the program in the North and it was very well received. Keith reminded the group of the huge success of the Toxic Twins symposium held at the Gene Autry Museum.

Committees:

The group discussed the need for a written committee report for submittal into the minutes. A form developed by Scott Quinn was distributed for review. The forms would be distributed to committee chairs for completion prior to the meeting.

OSHA -

Venders -

Technology – Tracy briefed the group on her work on Facebook and Instagram (22 followers, following 63)

Apparatus – Rob Szczepanek

                What’s new in the industry? What problems have been identified in fleet(s)?

Training – Keith Gurrola:

Committee will post links / announcements about various training opportunities. “Near miss”, “Green Sheet” announcements and Accident Investigations to be referenced / announced.

Web-Site – Tony Duran / Tracy Rabe: Being improved with hyperlinks for vender websites and better flow to current information.

The “Blue Card” concept was discussed, Keith related some sort of “discussion board” could be of value, but needs to be monitored / controlled to avoid conflict of mission issues.

The Hosting Agency $$ support for hospitality was discussed. The current board authorized expenditure is set at $200 / meeting.  Tony related most agencies he’s been contacting haven’t taken us up on the offer.

Mugs / Promotional Items: Tony to contact venders of Mugs / Challenge Coins.

Meeting Adjourned:  1220 Hours

***Notes added / modified after DRAFT comments and other updates are in italics in these meeting minutes.

Submitted by Chuck Seely – SAFER Secretary

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - December 2017

SAFER Meeting Minutes

December 15, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:  Past President Durran , VP Quinn,  Wilkerson,  Seely

Santa Fe Springs Fire & Rescue Training Center

0935    Meeting called to order – Past President Duran welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to Santa Fe Springs Fire – Rescue Department for hosting the December Meeting of SAFER use of the facility and hospitality and lunch.  

Past President Duran Introduced newly appointed Fire Chief Hayward who welcomed SAFER and related his appreciation for the group. He led the flag salute and recognized the FF LOD yesterday at the Thomas Fire. Chief Hayward thanked his staff members who provide the awesome hospitality today. He related the multiple missions (Fire, Rescue and Environmental Units) the Santa Fe Springs Fire & Rescue Department supports. He related the numerous charities and benefit programs they support. He related recent retirements and promotions within the department and major developments in the city.    

Tony related the recent improvements to the website.

January 4th, SAFER Board Meeting @ AllStar Fire Equipment.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise absent today, is at an NFPA  

CalOSHA –

Vender Liaison – Firehouse world first week in March in San Diego (Last time in San Diego)

Apparatus –

Safety and Training:

Technology – See Website, Facebook, twitter, linkedin

Treasurer - $468.00 in Savings, $2,000.00 in checking, new year so please pay membership dues.

Program: “The Fentanyl Crisis and the First Responders ”

SAFER VP Scott Quinn LAFD B/C introduced Capt. Brian dejong and Capt. Bob Dunivin  with the Los Angeles JHAT, a program under Homeland security.

Managing a Hazardous Materials / Terrorist Incident:

Determine (as you can) if this is a Terrorist Incident or not.

Metering equipment is extremely important

Rapid Assessment - Rapid extraction” – Rapidly assess to determine the scope of the incident, establish warm – cold zones, extract the victims ASAP

5 Steps for HazMat:

1. Safety Situational Awareness

2. ID The incident, problem, leak/product – Meters and other technical equipment

3. Notify (Scene Size-up) HazMat Teams, Civil Support Teams, Law, FBI etc.

4. Isolate and Deny Entry

5. Victims – Rapid Assessment and Extraction

RAT – Rapid Assessment Teams – Two guys who enters the area to evaluate and structure an emergency strategy.

CSTI – Teaches the acronym: SIN (Safety Isolate Notify)

Who is the lead agency if there is a criminal nexus?

FBI has a “Twelve step for sampling” procedures.

Scott related the experience at LAX  has had with dangerous drugs being shipped through the airport. The LAFD had 10-12 calls a day for “white powder” calls after 911.

Who is responsible if there is an imminent threat to public safety? If several agencies have a role in the incident management – establish a Unified Command to insure each agencies incident objectives are met in the IAP. * Only Fire and Public Health Agencies have objectives which support the incident victims.

The speaker related the differences between “Law” and “Fire/EMS” Incident Objectives and how the differences impact tactical operations.

*Potential HazMat exposures should be checked by a HazMat Specialist (or someone with HazMat Authority) BEFORE rushing them off to an ER.

Fentanyl: Video from DEA was shown relating two agents experience in which they were accidently exposed to fentanyl found in a bag during a routine investigation.

Produced mostly in Mexico and China, Is shipped by all methods into the US for sale on the street.

40-50X stronger than street heroin – very small amounts can kill, is a transdermal drug (will absorb through skin) CarFentanyl (an animal tranquilizer) is 10,000 stronger than heroin. Drug dealers will “cut” a drug by adding fentanyl to increase his inventory – increase his profit.

2-3 mg can produce respiratory arrest, narcan Rx can be overwhelmed by doses used by users. May need additional treatments of Narcan after initial Rx.

Meters:

JUNO – detects Fentanyl

FTIR -

Gemini –

High Pressure Gas Spectrometer – Newest ($65,00) unit that has a huge detection library

* Fire Extinguisher Powder is about the same micron size (3-5 mc) as fentanyl and can be used as a good demonstration substitute.

Grey Death : Fentanyl is blended with heroin and another systemic opioid like U-4700  to produce a grey colored drug.

Best way to develop good field procedures is to train, drill and coordinate with the myriad of agencies with responsibilities in HazMat/Terrorist incidents.

Often mixed with an opioid

*Victims – Fire/EMS has the lead, no victim – Law has the lead

Fentanyl is extremely toxic if exposed

Presenter: JHAT – Joint Hazard Assessment Team

CDC wanted everybody in level A PPE on these incidents. They tried to use FF PPE

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - November 2017 NTDP, San Dimas

NTDP, San Dimas, CA

Wildland Flame Front Simulator

Cab Crush - Type 4 Engine

Board Members in attendance: Scott Quinn, VP; Joe Sposato, Vendor Liaison; Tony Durán, Treasurer.

Attendance: Adam Bandos, LAFD; Frank Uram, QualaTel; Tracy Rose, LineGear Fire; Tom Foley, Workrite; Kelly Whitt, Workrite; Lazaro Martinez, MES; David Molinatti, ISC; Barry Owens, Cal Fire - Riverside; Steve Hoyle, Cal Fire Museum; Eric Higgins, Bestway Laundry; Aaron Ford, Super Vac; Tom MArtin, Responder Solutions; Joe Sposato, AllStar Fire Equipment; Jack Koltaj, Fed Fire Ventura County; Tony Durán, SAFER Treasurer; Jeff Wiljerson CPEN (Retired); Abel Ramos, Tempest Tech; Alexis Labbe, Tempest Leader; Jim Evans, Solutions Safety' James Golodzinier, LACoFD

The November 17, 2017 meeting was hosted by the National Technology and Development Program, San Dimas, California.  The meeting was opened at 0930 hours by SAFER V.P., Scott Quinn by welcoming everyone in attendance and leading us in the pledge of allegiance and a moment of silence.  Refreshements were provided by VP Scott Quinn and Tracy Rabe of Line Gear Fire.  He then introduced our hosts and speaker.

Presentation:

The presenter, Robert R. Manwaring, Fire Equipment Specialist with NTDP and a former USFS Firefighter, provided an overview of the center and the projects that the centers in San Dimas and Missoula, Montana focused on through 2017.  The highlights of the program were:

Fuel Geysering - a phenomenon occurring when fuel caps were removed from tools or storage bottles that caused the fuel to suddenly shoot out "geyser" out of the storage compartment.  This event has occurred in several locations throughout the United States and causes fuel to spill out, often causing the operator to be drenched with fuel.  Only one event has been noted in California.  The event occurred in the Sierra Nevadas and it is unknown where the fuel involved in the event was purchased.  It is believed that with all the regulations on California fuel, this may fortuitously prevented the described event from occurring.  It is still not clear why the events occur.  The centers have been testing fuel containers to determine if their design was in some way a factor in this event phenomenon. Check out:  http://bit.ly/fuelgeyser_home for further information and to report events.

 Situational Awareness for ground operations - technology is being developed to its most advantageous ability by allowing the leadership on the fire ground to locate and track various pieces of information in real time.  The objective of the program is to provide a recommendation for situational awareness systems for ground operations.

Vehicle Test using the Wildland Flame Front Simulator - the survivability of vehicles when faced with direct flame impingement was tested.  As a result of similar testing, Australia is replacing all synthetic materials in the interior of its apparatus with natural fibers to increase the survivability inside the cab of an engine.  It has been noted that the glass windows are the universal weak point of the apparatus.

Ignition Potential for Handheld Mechanized Equipment - the experiments attempted to determine under what conditions sparks from equipment may ignite dry brush.  It was interesting to note that even though many sparks may be created, not all contain the heat potential to ignite a material.

Discussion of Vehicle Specifications and Standards - the discussion focused on reducing the cab crush potential during a rollover accident.  The center is working with the apparatus manufacturers to build rated roll cages in cabs.  It has been noted that the rear "fire package" acts as an impromptu roll protection (see photo). Structural polyfoam may be added in the ABC posts and roof structure of the apparatus.  The US is way behind Australia and other European countries' standards.

The centers are looking at water handling equipment.

Pulaskis - the centers noted that this popular hand tool has not changed design since its inception.  Firefighters, however, are taller and have been suffering from bending injuries.  The handles' lengths have been tested from 36" to 48" and it is believed that a 42" handle is optimum for the comfort of the firefighter without compromising the strength of the tool's handle. (Greater lengths than 42" were breaking during use).  A summary of the projects for 2018 was provided.  A tour of the facility followed the presentation.  Everyone in attendance was given a commemorative pin of the facility.

Roundtable:

Cal/OSHA: No report

NFPA - Dick Weise had just returned from an NFPA meeting and was unable to attend this meeting.  Tom Martin reported that there will be a task group meeting of NFPA 1851, PPE Care and Maintenance, on January 9, 10 & 11, 2018 in Los Angeles at the Airport Marriot.  Jim Evans offered that there have been rewrites of four chapters.  There are more guidelines specific to building an SOP.  "Gross DECON" and scene mitigation (of PPE contaminated with products of combustion, i.e., potentially cancerous) has suggested that personnel will bag their PPE and store the bags outside of the passenger areas of the appratus, unless the bags are of a filtered type.  Personnel must have a second set of PPE available or be out-of-service until after they are able to obtain a clean set of PPE. California AB2146 is currently going through a financial feasibility study and, if passed, the state will have to fund AB2146.  Barry Owens, Cal Fire, Riverside provided a brief overview of a Cal/OSHA violation they received regarding this issue.

Apparatus: No report

Vendor Liaison - Firehouse World will be moving its venue as San Diego is too far and difficult to reach due to the traffic.  Most vendors do not remain overnight.  The new venue has not been decided at the time of this meeting.

Treasurer report - $XXX - checking, $XXX - savings.  As the year ends, everyone is now due for 2018.  

Alexis Labbe, Tempest Leader informed the group of the Fresno Training Officers Conference.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 1200 hours.  

December meeting: December 15, 2017 at Santa Fe Springs Fire Department, check the website for details.

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - October 20, 2017 - San Diego Fire & Rescue

SAFER Meeting Minutes

October 20, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:    President Gurrola , VP Quinn,  Wilkerson,  Seely

San Diego Fire & Rescue Training Center

0945    Meeting called to order – President Gurrola welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to San Diego Fire – Rescue Department for use of the facility, to AllStar Fire Equipment for the morning hospitality and Scott of FIRE ETC for lunch.  

Chief Gurrola Introduced Assistant Chief Weber who welcomed SAFER and related his appreciation for the group.

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick Weise absent today, Kirk and Jim added the 1851 Standard is in final phase of rewrite – “Public Comment period” till Oct 15th, committee to meet in LA to consider the comments before finalizing the standard.

Question: status of CalOSHA accepting the 1851 Standard as “California Law”. It was stated that it is still under consideration by CalOSHA.

Workplace violence reporting standard being worked on by LAFD et al. 

Apparatus – Pres Gurrola discussed the values of sharing information between various departments nationwide after issues being

Safety and Training:

Program: “Firefighter Behavioral Health and Suicide Awareness / Prevention”

Presenter: Jeff Dill, founder of the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance (FBHA)

 via teleconference from Firehouse Expo.

MS Degree, Retired Fire Captain Cell (847) 209-8208

On site facilitator/program coordinator: David Picone – Battalion Chief – Health and Safety Officer

San Diego Fire – Rescue Department

1010 Second Avenue, Suite 400 MS 604

dpicone@sandiego-gov, (619) 533-4466

SD Fire –Rescue began its Health and Safety Officer Position about three years ago. EMS Division now focused on citizens being served, the Health and Safety program is aimed at the fire service personnel. There is staff assigned for Cancer Awareness / Prevention and Behavioral Health.

Cancer:KurtisB@SanDiego.gov. (760) 845-6243. Related a three phase approach (1) Behavioral Change: Posters (Clean Gear, Clean Air, and Clean Body) (2) Policy Changes: Establishing operational standards for safety and wellness in daily operations and associated lifestyles. (3) Facilities upgraders such as extractors and multi sets of PPE Commitment: A sticker on helmet after committing to the programs any observed violation of “Best Practices” from the program.

Fire Department Chaplin: Has been involved with fire service in San Diego and nationally. Chaplin is a Member of “Peer Support Team” with the “firefighter’s benevolent association”. Many of “San Diego Fire & Rescue Departments” “firefighter’s benevolent association” programs were described that contribute to FF wellness needs. Contracts were developed with select mental professional services to provide needed assistance to Fire-Rescue family (includes lifeguards, fire, ems).

Notes from Jeff Dill’s presentation:

Jeff related the problem of FF Suicide and the most common causes that contribute to it:

• Marital, Family problems

• Depression

• Addictions

• Medical and Health Issuers

• PTSD

• Financial

• Legal Issues

San Diego Fire-Rescue – BHP:

1. “Cultural Brainwashing” – Fire Service Inexperience

2. 12 Steps in creating a successful Behavioral Health Program.

3. Joint Effort – I will be a constant working alongside Capt.  Cerruto who oversees the SD program

4. “Commend the Call” – when a call for help is received. (from employee or a co-worker / supervisor)

5. Education will be determined based on feedback and trends and shared to us by the providers

Issues to be addressed in San Diego - BHP:

1. Education = all members within fire-rescue Division (FF’s, Lifegaurds, Pilots, Dispatch and civilians)

2. Resources – “Official providers” FOCUS Psy Services, Chaplin’s, Fire Fam Services (SDFRA), EAP, Private Med Insurance, PERR support group and vetted long-term facilities

3. Family Members

4. New Recruits

5. Retirement -0 Current and future retirees.

6. Policies and Guideline’s –

Data / statistics related to FF Suicide was presented (138 in 2015)

No observed differences between paid / Volunteer/ male / female / city / rural data.

Suicide by Firearms 4x other methods – statistics presented

Retiree’s vs. active employees – (36 within 1 week of resignation)

Q: Size-up: Why am I using these substances, why do have these feelings. We have to self-assess:

Warning signs:

1. Anger

2. Reckless Behavior

3. Isolation

4. Lack of personal self-confidence – job competence

5. Sleep depravation

Retirees:

1. Loss of sense of humor

• If you look back to incidents in your career that you remember in absolute details of the incident you have some level of PTSD.

FIRESTRONG.org: A website from Phoenix FD with resources for direct access regarding Behavioral Health needs.

Sleep disorders program (from Harvard) is available for around $40,000 / agency. They send a “Train the Trainer” team out to teach your agency about sleep disorders. Those who’ve used the service highly recommend the program. Contact Kurtis with SD Fire-Rescue.

Discussion on the current state of affairs regarding mental health / suicide issues in the fire service. Recent experiences with various departments who’ve experienced suicide in their agency(s).

Additional information from local SD Fire – Rescue resources was provided: FOCUS Psychologist, Chaplin.

Roundtable:

Jeff Wilkerson – Camp Pendleton (Retired) -Great job SDF-R on the wellness issue

Jim Marugg - San Miguel Fire & Rescue Dept. – Related the green sheet report on an incident where a FF was contaminated with human waste at a homeless encampment. Related the particulars of his injury from a chemical burn / reaction to chemical contaminates. Policy changes include (1) No overhaul at night, (2) had to toss about $1,000 in PPE plus hose due to contamination. (3) All homeless encampments are considered a HazMat location.

Steve Hoyle – OCFA (Retired) – CA Fire museum

Adam Brandos LAFD – Attending for first time

Scott Quinn BC LAFD – “National” Mayday report is out, FF Memorial Ceremony held last week

Sebastion – Fillmore NTR

North Co FD -Firesrtong.org and Peer Councilors being used for several local agencies

Ventura – Running Academies, many resources are out.

Michelle Trout – Lion –Related lots of new products for PPE / Uniform needs.

John Fisher SD Fire and Rescue – Wildland Committee – Finishing a PPE Survey for 1977 gear.

David Bogg – Psychological “ FOCUS” program.

BullEx – Live and Visual displays.

Henry SD City – NTA

Frank Uram - Qualtel – Liked the topic, related the experience in today’s military.

MES – Covers SD County. Has new dual compliant work pant available.

David Molinatti  – Industrial Scientific -  Related new equip and services available to first responders.

Mario Marion – Streamlight , related new products avail

Scott Estrada – FIRE ETC. – Related they supply SD F-R, SoCal FPE – cleans PPE to meet 1851 standard

Emily Stubbs - Solutions Safety – Business development for Solutions Safety

Jim Evans – Solutions Safety – Long way since 19XX in the development of PPE selection, care and maintenance

Louie Garcia – Western States Fire Equipment – Related an attempted suicide event within his department.

Tracy Rabe – Linegear Fire & Rescue Equipment – Related equipment and support services available through Linegear.  

Kirk Owen – Veridian -  Liked the presentation, topic today. Thanked the presenter.

Larry Asst. Fire Marshall SD F-R – Related the importance of these types of employee support systems / programs.

Tom Martin – Has shelty gloves that meet the new NFPA standards. (Note new email address)

Rob Hoadley – Cardiac Science – First Meeting with SAFER, Vender of fully automatic AED’s and EMS AED’s

Ed Shabaro – LN Curtis – Related equipment / PPE currently available through Curtis.

Bill Ward – Pump Pod USA – Related the use of the “Pump Pod” that allows Fire departments to train, test and certify fire pumps while saving large volumes of water.

Abe – AllStar Fire Equipment – Related the PPE available through AllStar. Fire Show Reno – first week of November.

John Picone BC SD F-R –Related the topic today as being timely and needed.

Mark Sheldone – Days off Consultants – related the products they manufacture / rep.

Brett Days off Consultants – Reps Red Back Shoes and wildland foot wear

Jeff Storey – Plymovent rep. Related the importance of exhaust removal and the history with San Diego Fire with Plymovent. They were the first they were able to design and build a system for

Steve Cooley – Cobra Litter – Introduced the completed version of the Cobra Rescue Litter. Related the many uses of the system, the quality and versatility of the product for fire, ems, major event support where transportation of victim’s / support equipment / fire hose / SWAT – Law.

Mike Schlags – Cobra Litter – Added the potential uses of the Cobra Litter in incidents like the Las Vegas massacre / mass casualty incidents. 

Keith Gurrola Fillmore Fire Chief (Retired Ventura County) – Related the importance of today’s topic and the myriad of employee assistance programs.

NEXT MEETING SanDimiss – US Forest Service

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Meeting adjourned: 1200

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)             

Agency / Co

NAME

PHONE #

EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)

Chuck Seely

(949) 492-7993

firebiz@att.net

c alifornia fire muaseum

steve hoyle

9494965688

stbear@cox.net

Redback/Cosmas Footwear

Brett

619 203-6541

brett@cosmasusa.com

Camp Pendleton Fire ret.

Jeff Wilkerson

949-830-087

jwilker@cox.net

Quala-Tel Communications

Frank Uram

858-577-2900

furam@qualatel.com

BullEx

Daniel Vaccaro

518-698-5281

dvaccaro@bullex.com

LION

Michelle Trout

480-225-1324

mtrout@lionprotects.com

SCOTT SAFETY

Steve Hanks

858-226-7420

shanks@scottsafety.com

SDFD

David Picone

9492466999

dpicone@sandiego.gov

PumpPodUSA

Bill Ward

bill@liqui-pod.com

Aair Purification/Plymovent

Jeff Storey

8007766746

airpurisys@aol.com

Days Off Consultants/NightStick Lighting

Mark Sheldone

760-505-3473

msheldone@sbcglobal.net

AllStar Fire Equipment

Gabe Sayegh

6262550431

gabeallstar@gmail.com

Fillmore Fire

Keith Gurrola

805-558-0932

keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

Western States Fire Equipment

Louie Garcia

213-272-5680

lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Safety Components

Bill Black

858-243-4371

bblack@safetycomponents.com

Responder Solutions

Tom Martin

909-264-4875

tmartin@responder.solutions

Solutions Safety Products

Jim Evans

770-634-0848

jime@solutionssafety.com

Solutions Safety Products

Emily Stubs

emilys@solutionssafety.com

San Miguel Fire & Rescue

Jim Marugg

619-977-0793

jmarugg@sanmiguelfire.org

San Diego Fire-Rescue

John Fisher

858-945-6869

jafisher@sandiego.gov

LAFD

Adam Brandos

Adam.Brandos@Lacity.org

LineGear Fire & Rescue Equipment

Tracy Rabe

949-230-5610

tracy@linegear.com

SoCal

Melissa Magee

619-309-2240

melissa@soicalppe.com

Cardiac Science

Rob Hoadley

619.208.9190

rhoadley@cardiacscience.com

Veridian

Kirk Owen

712-260-3547

kirk@veridian.net

Cobra Litters LLC

Mike Schlags

805-896-7993

mschlags@cobralitter.com

Industrial Scinetific

David Molinatti

714-403-1915

dmolinatti@indsci.com

VCFD

Robert Szczepanek

805-914-4021

Robert.Szczepanek@ventura.org

VCFD

Shannon Black

shannon.black@ventura.org

Streamlight

Mario Payan

(818) 731-2510

Mpayan@pactecsales.com

MES (Muni Emerg Services)

Bill Zamudio

(858) 715-4639

bzamudio@mesfire.com

SoCal PPE

Chase Powell

(619) 309-2240

SOCALPPE.com

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - August 2017 - OCFA

SAFER Meeting Minutes

August 18, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:    President Gurrola , VP Quinn,  Wilkerson,  Seely

Orange County Fire Authority Headquarters

0930    Meeting called to order – President Gurrola welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to ORCO Fire Authority for use of the facility and to Michelle Trout with LIONfor the morning hospitality.   

Russ Snyder Introduced A/C Dave Anderson who welcomed SAFER and related his appreciation for the group’s contribution to FF safety and health. He related the importance of today’s topic (Cancer) and how his agency has been impacted by this health problem. He added the agency just pushed out a new policy to mandate SCBA use from beginning to end at every fire. He related the “clean gear, clean air, clean body” initiative.

A/C Chief Brian Young added his appreciation for the coordination to SAFER and the venders aligned with the safety and health of today’s fire service. 

Committee Reports:

NFPA – Dick sent an email with his report – delivered by Scott Quinn:

1977 Standard is in public input, several issues related to “how clean is clean” to try to set a standard for cleaning.

1851 is being revised to incorporate changes that have been proposed from its public comment period.

1971 Soon to be released in the 4th quarter to incorporate changes to those parts of the PPE ensemble.  

Pres. Gurrola related he attended a PPE meeting that included a major change in PPE for ARFF personnel for “most” airports. The “silver” suits are being phased out to favor of 1971 PPE. The exception is for major airports like LAX etc. and military installations.

Moving website to Tracy Rabe, our new website manager to speed up and improve postings.

Safety and Training:

Pres related there are several shows coming up. ARFF , Cancer symposium in Phoenix is coming in September.

Wants to team up with TO’s to post various training opportunities.  

Russ introduced Jonathan Wilby - OCFA Risk Manager, who will deliver today’s program:

Program: “An Organizational Look at Cancer Awareness and Prevention”

Jonathan related his position as OCFA Risk Manager and explained his role as an advocate for agency health and safety. He related the cooperation of management and labor in the health and safety mission. He related the OCFA’s Cancer experience over the past five years.

(Insert PowerPoint here)

Changes Implemented to date:

• Sunscreen products at every station

• Second set of PPE

• Structural PPE selection, care, and maintenance to meet NFPA 1851 standards

• Rescue wipes used during post fire decontamination

• Respiratory protection program procedure

• SCBA use throughout suppression / overhaul

• PAPR use throughout investigations (Cache kept on Truck Companies)

Mentioned San Diego Cities program as a model program

Changes in Process:

• Educational component (cultural change)

• Standardized signage restricting turnouts from living and sleeping areas

• Post fire asbestos sampling and testing procedures

• Ice machine contaminate assessment

• Washer / extractors located in each battalion

Related asbestos contamination problem: PPE came back from their ISP with detectable levels of asbestos. They use LION Total Care ISP in Texas who has a proprietary process to clean PPE with asbestos. The department is using an industrial hygienist to verify test results to drive policy decisions.

Five Gas Monitors:

1. CO

2. VOC (look for zero VOC)

3. O2

4. Lower Expl limits

5. Upper Expl limits

B/C Scott Quinn answered what LAFD is doing regarding asbestos and related all the difficulties in establishing policy for agency wide use. Related you almost need to build a flow chart to follow based on specific contaminates.

Chief Gurrola related Ventura County relies on the station extractors for cleaning contaminated gear.

Discussion on placement / appropriateness of Station Extractors vrs centralized service center based cleaning strategies.

Question: (Wilkerson) How does OCFA handle brush gear (1877 gear)?. (Russ) They currently don’t see many brush sets coming through the service center. Related some guys wash their 1977 gear in stations or even at home. Attendees related there will be cleaning requirements included in the new 1977 standard.

Jonathan related Historically the “first-in company” stayed throughout he suppression – overhaul – investigation phases. “First in – First out” to return to quarters for showers and equipment decontamination efforts is a possible policy change towards firefighter health.

Jonathan demonstrated the various promotional materials the OCFA is using in support of these program changes: stickers, posters and a video. The in-house produced video was viewed and very well received by all.

Question (Russ) Are any agencies doing an exchange program for hoods? Fresno – the B/C’s have a bag of new hoods that they distribute “on-scene” and collect  contaminated units for decontamination . LAFD relate if you need a new hood you’ll get a new hood.

Pres. Gurrola related were hoping to develop a “blog” capability to continue and expand discussions on various subjects (like FF CA) within the website.

John Price related the IAFF programs being instituted to enhance the awareness and practices designed to reduce carcinogens. He related the Firefighters Cancer Support Network efforts to reach-out to Cancer Victims for support and to all fire service personnel for education and training.

Jim Plymovent related there are numerous Attorneys representing Firefighters in exposure cases. Discussed exhaust gas removal systems and their respective differences.

Roundtable:

Chief Gurrola – Fillmore FD -  Encourages members to report accidents / injuries to promote discussion and exchange of potential solutions.

Jeff Wilkerson - Camp Pendleton (Retired) – Reports Camp has been having fires. Ca Fire Museum is meeting with Irvine to request location

Russ Snyder OCFA – Thanks for attending, related the video was excellent and related the organization is starting a 52 man academy in Sept, another 50 thereafter, got numererous new apparatus. Related the trucks are overweight – working with committees to resolve. Second of 3 phases of “second set” PPE’s is nearing completion

Fillmorer Fire Sebaastion

Eric Higgins - Bestway Laundry – Related new hand scanner for use on extractors will be rolled out next week

B/C Scott Quinn - LAFD – Regional Safety Team is doing investigation of Kelly Wong LODD. LAFD is doing FRO training – Opioid problem is becoming a real problem – First Responders are having problems getting enough Narcan to service all the fentanyl OD’s. Additionally, personnel exposed to very small quantities of fentanyl can cause risks to their health.

Steve Hanks - Scott Safety – Reps West Coast and Hawaii – Scott has 2018 NFPA Packs are ready to ship waiting for official certification from NFPA.

Steve Harris – Plymovent

JP – Nothing to add

Louie Garcia - Western States Fire Equip – Showed new structure glove and related DPF is still an issue . Cops West is having a show in October 31-Nov 1 & 2  Palm Springs.

Kelly Witt - Workrite – Corporate was talking to fabric supplier of “Nomex” discussing the characteristics of the fabric as it relates to cleaning and performance in multi-certifications.

Sean Van Sluis - Santa Monica Fire – Enjoyed presentation, just took over the PPE role, is a member of their safety committee. Is organizing their PPE to lean towards “second set” program and will be going “single layer” for brush gear (1977). Gurrola: Should we be wearing our 1971 gear to T/C’s and risk absorption of petro-chem’s? Maybe come up with a “better Option” for simple T/C responses.

Tracy Rabe - LineGear Fire and Rescue Equipment – Been with them for 7 years, now have a catalog with gear they sell.

Tracy Is now managing our website to improve attendance and expand content and interaction. The enhancements should help both FD’s as well as member venders.

Chad Dicksins - Atwood-Prior – Reps Pelican Products

Tom Martin - Atwood-Prior – Discussed Level A, B, C PPE, has a number of products.

X Discussed the dual /Tri certification for “cover pant” as it affects our Cancer risk.

Steve Hoyle – Ca Fire Museum & Safety Learning Center – ORCO (Retired)  – Related the 1851 Standard was a direct off-shoot of the work SAFER produced. There have been updates since the original proposed standard. Museum organizers will be meeting with City of Irvine to discuss a location for the museum in the great park.

Melissa McGee / Doug Murphy – SoCal PPE - ISP “Intratech Certified” has pick-up and delivery service. They are located in San Diego near Coronado. She related the procedure to send contaminated PPE in for cleaning. 

Frank Uram - Qualatel Communications – Related the” ear pieces” on headsets / microphones get contaminated and should be replaced as some reasonable period. He relates he designs and installs radios and intercom systems in emergency vehicles.

Kirk Owens –  Veridian Fire Protective Gear (Retired Fire Chief & NFPA Committee Chair) – Related he is available to help support the group in technical matters. Discussed the asbestos issue and related the traditional approach was to dispose of anything exposed to asbestos, was interested in the cleaning procedure being used by OCFA. Related they will be releasing a hood with “Particulate Blocking” capabilities. Waiting for the updated 1971 standard. Several problems: Dual Certified, Tri-Certified – Vapor Protection feature costs you breathability and removes it from wildland certification. Related many of the Venders can provide training for agency decontamination techniques.

Robinson – Pelican Products – Relates they support many products for Fire Service. They have numerous lighting devices and power supplies for FD Use. Manufacture of numerous types of protective cases.

Keith Gurrola – Fillmore FD – Related the Fillmore FD budget has been set, their fire foundation golf tour was a success. He needs to purchase gear for 18 new recruits. Received a FEMA Safety Grant – will have three new paid Firefighter positions.

 They had a FF take his PPE in for alteration without authorization – he considers the incident a “near –miss” for his dept

** FF Memorial will be September 30th in Sacramento..

Los Osos Symposium on PPE (Vender Driven Event) was a good event with relavent information for the end users.

Santa Paula FD is merging with Ventura Co. FD. Much SPFD gear will be excess and will be available. They also have a Light / Air Trailer that will be available.

NEXT MEETING September 15th – Location and topic to be announced

San Diego – Behavioral Health – October

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)             

Agency / Co                              NAME                               PHONE #                                  EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)       Chuck Seely               (949) 492-7993                   firebiz@att.net

Air Exchange PLYMOVENT   Steve Harris           909-973-8211                steveh@airexchange.com

Air Exchange PLYMOVENT     Jim Cleary          909-720-7064                 jtc1@roadrunner.com

OCFA                                        Russ Snider                 714-573-6601                     russsnider@ocfa.org

Camp Pendleton(Retired)    Jeff Wilkerson         949-445-9512                   jwilker@cox.net

Qualatel                                   Frank Uram                 858-577-2900                furam@qualatel.com

Ca fire museum & safety learning center   stevehoyle949-496-5688       stbear@cox.net

Santa Monica Fire        Sean Van Sluis             949-702-3473                 sean.vansluis@smgov.net

OCFA                                 Jonathan Wilby         714-573-6832                       jonathanwilby@ocfa.org

Scott Safety                   Steve Hanks                858-226-7420                          sthanks@tycoint.com

  SOCAL PPE    DOUG MURPHY/melissa MAGEE   619-993-1163              murph@socalppe.com

WESTERN STATES FIRE EQUIP   LOUIE GARCIA   213-272-5680           lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Atwood-Prior          Tom Martin            909-264-4875                             tmartin@repagency.host

LION                              Michelle Trout                     480-225-1324                  mtrout@lionprotects.com

LineGear Fire & Rescue Equipment      Tracy Rabe    949-230-5610                  tracy@linegear.com

Veridian Fire Protective Gear    Kirk Owen       712-260-3547                        kirk@veridian.net

MES                              Lazaro Martinez               562-320-2385                       lmartinez@mesfire.com

MES                                    John Price                     562-212-6803                            jprice@mesfire.com

Bestway Laundry Solutions          Eric Higgins951-532-7700                        sales@bestwayls.com

CURTIS Tools For Heros            Ed Shabro          760-250-1180                        eshabro@lncurtis.com

fillmore fire poi         sebastian ramirez             805-2975214    sebastian ramirez@fillmorefire.com

Fillmore Fire Dept      Keith Gurrola         805-558-0932                          keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - July 2017

SAFER Meeting Minutes

July 21, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:   Past President Duran, VP Quinn,  Wilkerson,  Seely, Quinn, Vender Liaison Sposato

AllStar Fire Equipment

0940    Meeting called to order - Past President Tony Duran welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to AllStar Fire Equipment Company for use of the facility and  to Lion apparel and SCOTT Breathing Apparatus for the morning / lunch hospitality.   

Tony introduced B/C Scott Quinn LAFD, who will deliver today’s program:

Program: “Drive to Survive”

Related his experiences as Safety Officer and Litigation Officer. Related the program scheduled for last month (Behavioral Health) is very relevant to present day FD’s and will be rescheduled in the future.

B/C Quinn related LAFD practices (pre-trip, licencing and operators role / responsibilities) documentation. The issue of length of operation , relief policy, drivers health and distractions while driving are frequesnt issues brought up in court cases.

A PowerPoint presentation was shown that demonstrated the myriad of characteristics that make up safe driver / operator practices.

Regional Training Authority: LAFD is doing EVOC training (Computer simulation and hands on handling) may be available to RTA members.

Typical Accident litigation takes about three years and is a nightmare for all involved.

All new apparatus are equipped with a “Black Box” that collects data on the vehicles operation.

(Insert PowerPoint Here)

Orange County Fire Authority will host the August SAFER Meeting. The topic will be “An Organizational Look at Cancer- Awareness and Prevention” presented by OCFA / Risk Manager Jonathan Wilby.

Joe: working on getting improved access to website to post meeting notifications earlier

Committee Reports:

Scott Hudson – OSHA Updates: Hemet FD Retired. New standard for silica sand exposure adopted by FED OSHA, CalOSHA to (TWA is based on 4 hour window of exposure). Emergency Ops allows for 24 hour period for RESCUE. Need Training, Policies and practices in place. Will be released for enforcement later this year.

New standards for Storage batteries (for backup systems) has a requirement for training and operational policies. 

Indoor heat illness standard being developed by CalOSHA for implementation next year.

New “phone” notification standard for CalOSHA is being planned to clarify employers requirement(s) for timely notification of industrial accidents.

Heat-Illness injury minimum fine is $17,000.

Workplace violence reporting requirement is “in effect” but not widely known by employers.

Employee Evacuation Plan – One for each “risk” identified, standard being developed

New standards for chop saws, protective shrouds / guards is being developed for industrial applications.

SRIA- Independent review of proposed standards (SB 617).

Nat Safety Council rates CA a “C” on workplace safety.

NIOSH has a heat illness app for download.

CalOSHA Increasing penalies: Minor $7,000 to $10,000, serious increases to XXXX, resulting from Fed OSHA stating that CalOSHA is too linient.

Gender Toilets: State legislation required an amount of toilets available for the workplace

Zika carrying mosquitos have been identified in 11 Counties in CA.

New forklift standards for “non-lift” positioning.

Capt. Jordan relates it’s important for a liaison to accompany employees to hospital in insure medical staff doesn’t label illness as “heat illness / injury” instead of “heat exhaustion”.

Tony related if CalOSHA conducts an investigation for a specific issue they have heads on swivel as they conduct the inspection – EVERYTHING is under scrutiny.

Equipment:

Rosenbauer is conducting  “electric apparatus” testing.

Vender Liaison:

Thanks to the venders for attending and contributing to the SAFER Organization.

Technology:

Tony – Looking to improve web site, timely meeting notifications and enhanced content are several themes to be addressed.

Treasures Report: Tony for

$467.86 / $1,114.88 Checking

Expenses for NFPA membership and Dick Weise travel.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

RoundTable:

John Henderson Torrance

Jeff Wilkerson Camp Penaton Fire , All apparatus have cameras front, rear and inside to document apparatus operation , related seat belt enforcement and policy enforcement.

Steve Hoyle – ORCO retired, California Fire Museum.

Capt.Langer Vernon – Recently appointed as New Apparatus and Equipment Officer.

Curt Johnson – Tempest and Leader are now one company after a recent acquisition / merger.

John Price LACoFD Retired – Now MES representation, related “Attitude and Accelerator”

Jordan LACoFD –

Scott McLaren CalFIRE Riverside – Has finalized driving policy to meet modern traffic needs, added a second engine to T/C’s. CalFire Riverside has developed a check-list for traffic investigations. Agency has updated its EMS dispatching protocol’s (EMD). CalFire Riverside will be implementing a similar triage program for “Fire” responses in the future. Using code 2 response’s when appropriate to limit / reduce code 3 accidents.

Scott – Fillmore fire.

Chris Murdock – LACoFD Retired, Rio Hondo Fire Academy – Reminds that there is liability issues that can effct

Lim Clearly – Plymovent – Related he learns something at every SAFER meeting he attends. Company is doing a lot of conversions of older systems to newer product

Eric Higgins – BestWay Laundry systems – Has installed 10 systems this month.

Bill Ward – Pinical Bod – Has an order from Long Beach FD for a new upgraded POD unit that will accommodate aerial and nozzle testing needs. Water districts are interested in using their tanks (PODS) to save water when using testing

Louie Garcia Western States – Has new glove arriving, Ford Explorer’s have been identified as having a CO problem – Officers found with CO illness nationally. Found to be largely associated with modifications for Public Safety users.

Jack Koltaj - Ventura County – Crew reductions are occurring, island stations use JP5 for fuel

Russ Snider ORCO – Just graduated 24 “lateral” class, new engines,”quints” (some found to be overweight)

Tom Martin – Multi-line Manufactures Rep – Related some new HazMat app to better identify the proper PPE configuration for specific chemicals. Has new” Action Wipes”,  not a repackaging of baby wipes.  This wipe is specifically designed for active adults started in the outdoor sporting market. These wipes are designed to be used by persons “on line” for multiple days. Related they are showing a small washer for ppe. Kappler, wide range of chemical protective ppe:  The frontline 500 level A suit has a new larger non fog visor to increase visibility. A smart device app is available to generate risk assessment reports “ HazMatch”.  Turnout gear chem response overshot protects turnout gear from chemical contamination. Checkers ground level safety has hose ramps, electrical cabling ramps, wheel chocks speed bumps - Poly cribbing. Has Groves and single unit extractor 20 lbs. For turnout gear, hoods, woodland gear and are great for smaller departments and remote stations. 

Scott Hudson – Hemet Retired – City has passed a 1% tax to fund Police / Fire in the city. Has new B/C’s (1 from Grand Junction CO. ) Related the concept that code 3 driving is dangerous if you make it dangerous, but some accidents are simply unavoidable.

Davis Mul – Industrial Scientific – Related the CalOSHA “compliance” issues after an incident. He relates his job is to make sure the equipment is operating properly and to train the end user in it

Gevork Kazanchyan - LACo Risk Management – Working to implement the Workplace Violence Reporting standard. Working to define “work Place” definition (in the ambulance, in the facility etc.) and how they can comply “globally”.

Frank Orum – QualTel Communications – Discussed the various communications systems he installs / services: Headsets, wireless intercom and radio systems. 

Tony Duran LACoFD Retired – NH3 Training Institute – Teaches Industry and First Responders how to work with Anhydrous ammonia. He is planning dates for training Anaheim and Downey Fire Departments. Tony can facilitate training programs for NH3 operational training needs.

Scott Quinn – LAFD B/C – Budget approved for agency. Crews are working tons of OT, will be hiring more in the future. Related their recent LODD (Kelly Wong) and how the incident has impacted their operations. Department is cooperating with CalOSHA in the investigation to improve future firefighter safety.

Joe Sposado – AllStar – Related recent 4th place finish of the AllStar Porche in Utah. He related recent observations of people “texting” (leaving space – driving slow so as to text), (cars that drift the correct) these are people that are texting while driving. AllStar has won the contract with CalFire to supply them with SCOTT SCBA’s. They are switching from MSA SCBA’s. Particulate Hood for FF’s is now available that GORE Developed. Has particulate protection (99% effective) that is not vapor barrier. (see GORE online).Joe recommends writing your name on the front of the hood to insure proper donning pro-8cedures.

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)             

Agency / Co        NAME            PHONE #       EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)   Chuck Seely(949) 492-7993      firebiz@att.net

c alifornia fire museumsteve hoyle    9494965688       stbear@cox.net

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCHJIM CLEAERY909-720-7064

Camp Pendleton Fire ret.  Jeff Wilkerson 949-830-087   jwilker@cox.net

Quala-Tel Communications Frank Uram858-577-2900 furam@qualatel.com

ASTI   Tony Duran   626-590-2991   Firetiger2013-SAFER@yahoo.com

Hemet Fire Dept. Ret.  Scott Hudson951-694-2591 scotth1902@gmail.com

VERNON Fire   Mike Langer    951-775-2058   mlanger@ci.vernon.ca.us

Torrance Fire   Jon Henderson   310-977-5619 Jhenderson@torranceca.gov

Western States Fire EqupLouie Garcia213-272-5680 lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Leader Emergency VehiclesGeoff Maze626-377-2931 geoff.maze@leader-ambulance.com

MESJohn Price   562-212-68703   jprice@mesfire.com

Atwood-Prior Inc    Tom Martin   909-264-4875 tmartin.specialist@gmail.com

Safety ComponentsBill Black858-243-4371 bblack@safetycomponents.com

LA County Fire RetiredChris Marangakis562-553-2619 chris.marangakis@gmail.com

Tempest / Leader   Curt Johnson   559269-7773   curt@tempest.us.com

LA County CEO Risk ManagementGevork Kazanchyan 213.351.6408 gkazanchyan@ceo.lacounty.gov

Fed Fire Ventura CountyJack Koltaj805-989-7043 jack.koltaj@navy.mil

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - April 2017

SAFER Meeting Minutes

April 21, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:   Pres Gurrola, Vice Pres Weise, Quinn, Seely, Wilkerson

Santa Monica Fire Department

Santa Monica Library

0950:   Meeting called to order - President Gurrola, Fillmore Fire Chief, welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to the City of Santa Monica for use of the facility and AllStar Fire Equipment for morning bagels and coffee.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Business Meeting:

Finance: No report at meeting, a detailed report was submitted to board via email from Past Pres Duran.

OSHA: ”Violence against first responders” reporting– Agencies must maintain a Log / Journal , (similar to a “300 Log”) beginning April 1st, 2017 of incidents involving:  (1) Member on Member, (2)Violence on  first responder from public, (3) Dog Bites.  April 2018: All members must be trained. LAFD has started a log to begin implementation.

Acceptance of NFPA standards by CalOSHA is pending “cost analysis “review by legislature as it will place burden on local government agencies. (Un-funded Mandate)

NFPA: Dick Weise – SAFER rep to 1977, (1877 Document is a SCAM doc for wildland): Committee is looking at Dozer Operator gloves, FR boot laces, “vented helmets”. Dual compliant Station-Wildland pants are out to bid for LACoFD. All helmet liners/support elements must be easily removable for proper decontamination. IAFF is pushing a Cancer Prevention program. 1971 (Structure and Proximity) updates to include systems to protect from particulates through “Hood” elements and THL standard.

“Healthy In – Healthy Out” programs are being implemented throughout the fire service.

FIRESCOPE: Chief Reyes - LAFD: Discussed the “flagging tape” colors and their meanings and the efforts underway to standardize its uses. Smoke/inhalation issues are being looked at and the desire to NOT cover other standard developers. Recommends attending “Safety Officers Conference” (3-Days), receive updates from experts and agency representatives from CalFire, aviation ops, Incident Management – Leadership. 

FDIC next week in Indianapolis.  Document # 215A updated and on website.

Apparatus: No report. One attendee related they’d experienced some LDH (4”) delaminate.

Technology: No report

Venders: FDIC Next week in Indianapolis.

“Foresters and Fire Wardens”: Pilgrim Pines (Oak Glen) May 4 &5th, 2017

• Program: Fire Service working at Tactical Law Enforcement Incidents

Presenter: B/C Don Reyes – LAFD – Homeland Security Division & FIRESCOPE

Reference FIRESCOPE ICS 701 Document, Revised June 23, 2015 or newer

• History : (Columbine Incident was impetus – Immediate Action Tactics developed)

• Pre Incident Considerations

• Initial Actions Tactical Considerations

• Staging

• Tactical Context

• Working with Law/SWAT

• Nomenclature

• The Bid One

What is a Tactical Law Enforcement Incident?

1. Active Shooter, Hostage Taker, Barricaded Suspect

2. Suspect with explosives

3. Perimeter Search

4. MACTAC / Combat Coordinated Attack

5. ICS 701

TEMS: Tactical Emergency Medical Support:

Section redacted

Pre-Incident Considerations:

• Pre-Incident Relationships

• Training:

• FRO

• Active Shooter

• MACTAC

• PPE and Equipment

• Adapting other SOG’s

• Other Agency needs (Public Schools, airport other “stake-holders”)

• Public Information and Incident Messaging (Social Media)

• Blue Force Tracking being developed for public safety

Initial Actions:

• Confirm Incident Type

• Co-locate with LAW OIC/IC

• Establish Unified Command:

• ID Hot/Warm/ Cold Zones

• Create RTF’s

• Request Additional Resources

• Create Notification Area with Dispatch (to control access to incident area)

• Communication Plan

• Inter-Agency Communication

• Rescue Group Supervisor

• Med Communications

• Med Group Supervisor

• Fire Group

Tactical Considerations:

Section redacted

 Staging:

 Section redacted

Tactical Context:

Risk Assessment:

• ID HOT/WARM/COLD zones

• Viable Victims

• What Can we Accomplish?

PACE:

• Primary Plan

• Alternate Plan

• Contingency Plan

• Emergency Plan

LCES:

Does each agency have same criteria?

Comm Plan

Interagency Communications

Working with Law/SWAT:

• The Officer in Charge

• Mutual Support

• Unified Command

• Briefing(s)

• Medical Plan & CCP (Casualty Collection Point)

• Force Protection

• Fire Plan

• Discussion on ISIS publications and the JRIC info products being distributed to Law/Fire Agencies. Push Publications are developed for reasons, not just on a time-table.  

( LAFD) Working withLAW/SWAT/TEMS:

Section redacted

Terminology:

Section redacted

MACTAC Considerations:

• Tactical Areas (Notification Areas)

• Incident Facilities Locations

• Maximum Commitment

• California Mutual Aid

• Federal Assets

Meeting recessed to Vender Time at 1125

Meeting reconvened at 1145 for roundtable

Roundtable:

Dick Weise – Predicts active fire season, drills coming up. KME Quints coming soon. Replacing many “plastic interior parts” from rigs to reduce off gassing

Weisenburg – Ventura County Fire – Class of recruits going through, need medics, 5 Rosenbowers Type 1’s, 1 Quint ordered. Next Month BBQ at SAFER meeting. Two years till next retirement

Crystal – Fillmore / Ventura Federal FF’s – Hiring six

Scott Quinn – LAFD B/C – Castro Retired last week, slowing drill towers to two per year. Has had 4” LDH separating.  LAFD had a large fire on the Vernon border in a food processing plant.

Had a kid making pipe bombs in a neighborhood. Was injured.

 LAFD responded to Murrieta Georgia FF’s accident that was fatal. The guy had just toured the fire station that responded to the incident. LAFD provided “honor guard” to the coroner, then the funeral home and finally to the airport. Provided family support to the friends / family from Georgia.

Kirk Owen – Veridian PPE – Will be at FDIC next week introducing a new generation FF Glove.

Jack K Ventura Federal FF – Looking for Chief to

Don Reyes – LAFD –

Jeff Wilkerson May 10th, Camp Pendelton Dozer School May 1, 2017, CalFIRE. 1st Week in June – Fire School.

Steve Hoyle – ORCO (Retired) – Fire Museum – Related the loss of agency history, experience

Bill Ward – Pump recovery system – Saves water while allowing real world training opportunities.

Tracy Rabe - Fire Rescue Equipment – Rep’s footwear and workrite uniforms.

Rick Holman – AllStar Fire Equipment – Will be at FDIC. Scott bought by 3-M

Louie Garcia – Western States Fire Equipment - :LaHabra Heights looking at Rosenbouer Type 1 and 3 appratus. Has a new glove to show at FDIC.

Tom Martin – Atwood-Prior , Inc. - Factory Rep’s for Pelican, others. Has Sun Block, Insect repellant, mounting brackets. Showed a new foam cartridge nozzle.

Jim Cleary – Plymovent – ORCO 61 burned, 61 on a call when they responded to their station for a reported structure fire. Contract just signed to have it rebuilt.

Eric Higgins – BestWay Laundry- Related he’d have a “Scanning Program” to track PPE laundering for 1851 compliance.

John Price – LACoFD (Retired) – MES PPE Expert

Rob Span Ventura County Fire –

Frank QualTel – Showed the wireless headset / transmitter to interface with rig radio and intercom. 

Lazaro Martinez – MES – PPE, equipment for Law and Fire Services. Has InfraRed cameras and Scope for USA

Davis A – Industrial Scientific – Related the company and the industry they service. Gas detection equipment and chemical monitoring.

Keith Gurrola – Fillmore FD – Will be hiring FF’s after current group is fully integrated. Annual Golf tournament will be June 3rd, 2017.

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)

Agency / Co                           NAME                 PHONE #              EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)    Chuck Seely    (949) 492-7993     firebiz@att.net

c alifornia fire museum   steve hoyle       9494965688        stbear@cox.net

PLYMOVENT/AIR EX    JIM CLEAERY    909-720-7064

Camp Pendleton Fire ret.  Jeff Wilkerson949-830-087    jwilker@cox.net

Quala-Tel Communications    Frank Uram 858 577-2900      furam@qualatel.com   

Los Angeles Fire Dept  Scott Quinn213-434-1380 scott.quinn@lacity.org

Los Angeles County Fire Dick Weise 951-807-1914

rweiselacofd@yahoo.com

Municipal Emergency ServicesLaz Martinez     lmartinez@mesfire.com

Atwood-Prior/Pelican Products Tom Martin 909-264-4875

tmartin@firebrigade.com

Louie GarciaLouie Garcia213-272-5680   lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Industrial ScientificDavid Molinatti714-403-1915 dmolinatti@indsci.com

Torrance Fire Dept.  Tim McAtee     310-344-1490

 Santa Barbara County Fire Dept.  Michael Klusyk   805-896-6337

Ventura City Fire DeptLuis Manzano   805-256-8533

Veridian Fire Protective GearKirk Owen 712-260-3547 kirk@veridian.net

Fillmore Fire Department Crystal Rhoden 805-701-5891

Swangemini6@yahoo.com

Los Angeles Fire DepartmentDon Reyes 213359-1054 donald.reyes@lacity.org

Fillmore Fire Department Keith Gurrola 8055580932 keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

Bestway Laundry Solutions Eric higgins 18005426166

sales@bestwayls.com

Federal Fire Ventura County Jack Koltaj 805 989-2373 jack.koltaj@navy.mil

LineGear Fire & Rescue Equip Tracy Rabe 949-709-8808

tracy@linegear.com

Pump Pod USA        Bil Ward    949-246-6999     bill@liqui-pod.com

MES                             John Price   562-212-6803   jrpice@mesfire.com

Allstar Fire Equip.    Rick Homan   626-255-0434rickh@allstarfire.com

Los Angeles Fire Dept     Scott Quinn213-434-1380

scott.quinn@lacity.org

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - March 2017

SAFER Meeting Minutes

March 17, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:   Pres Gurrola,Vice Pres Quinn, Past Pres. Duran, Seely, Sczcepanek, Cardenas,  Vender Liaison Sposato

Fillmore Fire Department

Fillmore City Hall

0945    Meeting called to order - President Gurrola, Fillmore Fire Chief, welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to the City of Fillmore for use of the facility and Louie Garcia of  Western States Fire Equipment for morning bagels and coffee,  the” Fillmore Fire Foundation” for BBQ lunch.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

Business Meeting:

Finance: $467.65 savings, $1000+/- in checking. Tony encouraged all to pay their dues (on line or by check). We’d like to hire a web-master to handle some of those updates as required. Our expenses include support of NFPA committees.

OSHA: ” Violence against first responders” reporting– Agencies must maintain a Log / Journal , (similar to a “300 Log”) beginning April 1st, 2017 of incidents involving:  (1) Member on Member, (2)Violence on  first responder from public, (3) Dog Bites.  April 2018: All members must be trained.

NFPA: Jim Evans:  1851 Committee met to consider public input and begin drafting new standard. Available on-line for review. “At incident cleaning” will be addressed in the new 1851 standard. * AB2146 (Cal) is going to make 1851 ‘Law” in California. A discussion on AB 2146 followed: Cost to implement, gov’t un-funded mandate issue, Grant opportunities to cover PPE and laundering facilities, the “10 year Rule” (maximum life-span of PPE). The act will have a five year phase-in period. Year one will have requirement to conduct “Advanced Inspection” and “Annual Inspections”. Helmets are high on list for replacement to CalOSHA approved gear.  

Apparatus: No report today. Joe added there has been a consolidation of ambulance companies into REVONE: a public company who bought several major manufacturers including KME and E-1 manufacturing.  

Technology: Discussion on the web-site work.

Venders: FDIC In Indianapolis Joe recommends everyone attend at least once, it’s the best look at all the equipment available in the market place.  April 26th thru 30th, 2017.

• Program: Initial Accident Investigations- a Guide for Incident Safety Officers

Presenter: Brian Bulger - Ventura County Fire Department (Retired) , Incident Safety Officer

            Insert program PP/PDF

Presentation opened with demonstration to represent a group of people with observable skill sets but who don’t routinely work together (similar to resources assigned to an incident):

 A display of 6 individuals performing a task as directed by a “supervisor” who provided specific instructions on the task to be completed (a 7’ stick exercise). The exercise demonstrated the difficulty in coordinating a group of “experts” to complete a series of tasks using DIRECTIONS ONLY, then demonstrated the observable improvements in task completion with LEADERSHIP ADDED (pushing the stick down to establish momentum towards successful completion).  Discussion on “leadership” and “Followership” roles in a program.

Tony Duran then related his experience’s investigating numerous accident investigations while working for LACoFD as a Safety Officer. Many times another agency will take the “Lead Investigative Role” to cancel out any biases or favoritism. 

Scott Quinn related some helpful tips:

• Don’t call it an ACCIDENT, it’s always referred to as n INCIUDENT.

• Maintain the demeanor that were trying to resolve a safety matter, not a disciplinary matter – even though a disciplinary action may come if warranted.

Hand-Out:

PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW

1. Review any previous similar statement or evidence available.

2. Make a written or mental note of “Known” issues.

3. Make a written or mental note of the “Need to Know” issues.

INTRODUCTION

1. Properly identify yourself.

2. Give reason for interview without disclosing case details.

3. Conduct interview with all witnesses.

ESTABLISHING A REPORE

1. Comment on topics of apparent interest to the interviewee.

2. Establish confidence by friendly confidence – downplay the investigator roles.

3. Keep conversation informal and easy.

4. Be pleasant and avoid unpleasant expressions.

5. Tape record interview, if possible.

SAMPLE OF QUESTIONS TO ASK

1. State date, time, place of interview, name of interviewer and interviewee.

2. Have interviewee acknowledge and and permit tape recording of interview for the record.

3. Have interviewee state occupation and any technical background.

4. Ask Interviewee of what he / she heard or observed that was unusual before or after the accident / investigation.
   Have interviewee describe what happened.

5. Ask for other witnesses.

NOTE:  EMPLOYEES ARE ENTITLED TO HAVE EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATION UPON REQUEST – ie Union Rep.

AFTER INTERVIEW

1. Label all taped cassettes / notes and secure a “CONFIDENTIAL” marked enveloped. Forward to the Departments Safety Office.

DUTY SAFETY OFFICER

ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION GUIDELINES

(VEHICLE AND INJURY)

ISOLATE SCENE

1. Obtain Briefing from Incident Commander.

2. Secure the scene with barricade tape – utilize Police or Department personnel or other assistance.

EVIDENCE

1. Photograph:

   1. Major Incident – Department photographer

   2. Routine Incident – Disposable (Digital or Smart Phone)

2. Diagram and measure the scene

3. Account for any movement of physical evidence.

4. Vehicle accidents and potential criminal circumstances – local police agency in charge of investigation and evidence.

WITNESSES

1. Name, address, work and home telephone numbers.

2. Their location at the time of the accident.

INTERVIEWS:

1. Interviews conducted by the Duty Safety Officer are to be considered FACT FINDING in nature only. Fact finding issues are those related to the following items:

2. Equipment Performance

3. Safety Practice

4. Standard Techniques

5. Training

6. Issues of a non-punitive nature

7. If, for any reason, during the interview it is discovered that wrongdoing or gross negligence were factors in the accident, the interview process shall cease immediately and the Department of Human Resources shall be contacted for direction. This action is to preclude any violation of the employees’ rights.

Three “categories / things” Safety Officers should classify:

1. Items – Things we all can discuss without specifics

2. Concerns – An observed risk / hazard we all can discuss and determine a “best case” solution.

3. Issues – Already happened

• Who owns the problem? Critical Factor in analysis of accident. The more complex the incident the more difficult the analysis.

• Route Cause Analysis – Un-layering to the most basic task level

• Swiss Cheese analogy (one slice – see light, add additional slices and less shines through).

• Seven coinciding events that lead to an accident (USAF)

• Who owns the problem? Related his experience with a burn-over (Rucker – Cedar Fire) that occurred outside of Julian, Ca.: Extinguished FF’s burning body, took photos and notes on situation. Didn’t know who was “in –charge” as the incident hadn’t built to a complete incident command structure.

• Utilize “Job aides” (Lap top, forms) to help document and format the investigative pathway going forward.

• Have checklists, similar investigative documents from prior incidents.

• Your Expectations: Have a good an idea what you want to accomplish on an investigation, understanding your investigation may simply “attach” to another agencies investigation when they have a larger / more appropriate level of investigation.

• Discussion of CalOSHA’s role:

• Uses the :SOP’s, standards from “host agency / jurisdiction” to apply.

Meeting recessed to Vender Time at 1125

Meeting reconvened at 1145 for roundtable

• Board of Supervisor Kelly Longer addressed the meeting and expressed appreciation for our work on behalf of employee and health safety.

Roundtable:

Steve Hoyle – CalFire / OCFDCa Fire Museum and learning center. Encourages out-reach to the Irvine City Council @ CityofIrvine.org  to support the California Fire Museum in the future Great Park.  

Jeff Wilkerson – Camp Pendleton Fire Department (Retired) – Relates the use of flags over deceased is not allowed in federal incidents.  

Capt Cardenas – LAFD Safety Coordinator – Numerous promotions (60) in the LAFD all the way up the ranks. Running two academies now, will trim to one next year. Working on an “Overhaul Committee” to consider how the agency leaves fire scenes to minimize toxic exposures to crews. They want to eliminate or at least minimize overhaul in the future. He related some issues with gasoline fueled smoke ejectors as a source of CO. Related / reminded attendees of the Federal death benefit for ff families.

Scott Quinn – AC LAFD – Added to the discussion on overhaul and it’s connection to Cancer in FF’s. LAFD now has psychologists to help with FF Health issues.

Scott  Bethurum  - CAL Fire Riverside – Related they’ve recently installed extractors (31 sites so far) to help with 1851 PPE laundering. Recently received an $18,000 citation for not providing adequate water in a heat illness incident. Discussion followed with agency representatives with experience fighting CalOSHA citations relating their advice. 

Don Reyes LAFD – World Fire Police Games – August7-16th web site: Related information available at the website: la17wpfg.com, opening ceremony at the LA Coliseum.   

Tony Duran –ASTI -  LACoFD (Retired) – Related ASTI teaches agencies on the response to Anhydrous ammonia incidents. Adds the only rescue from an NH3 incident will be by first responders in 1872 PPE with SCBA as waiting for a reinforced response by HazMateers with class A suits will be too late to save a victim.

Brian Bulger – Retired and enjoying life!

Joe Sposato- AllStar – SCOTT being purchased by 3M, ($2 Billion), 3M known for innovation and allowing its daughter companies to operated unhindered. SCOTT Thermal Imager available. Lion apparel V-Force Turn-Out available. Future is focused on keeping PPE CLEAN for FF health. Phoenix Helmets have new head pads for the inside top.

Mike Klusyk - Santa Barbara County Fire – Works on stations and grounds, Chair of Safety Specialist Group with FIRESCOPE. Expecting a severe fire season due to heavy rains this year. SART

John Flores – Santa Monica Fire – Organizing PPE program, purchases, maintenance etc.

Louie Garcia – Western States Fire Equipment – Discussed “SMART” vehicles and the requirements for monitoring equipment to document the operation of all commercial vehicles. More info should be available at FDIC. Western States Fire Equipment represent “Rosenbauer” apparatus.

Tim Macee –Torrance Fire Dept. – Safety Committee member in Torrance. Recently attended IAFF Legislative Conference in DC, Discussed the conference and the Torrance refinery issues which use HF in their production of hydrocarbon products.  All Torrance personnel use “station shoes” (black tennis shoes) when they leave the rig to eliminate blood borne pathogens etc. from station / quarters and are removing 80% of station carpeting. “Fire” gear gets removed prior to entering quarters and bagged for cleaning. “Fire Hood Fridays” is a local standard developed to ensure protective hoods are maintained in a clean condition.

Kevin Schroepfer - Oxnard Fire Department – Initiative to support: ”Clean Fire Station” programs: assigns two hoods / man to ensure protective hoods are maintained in a clean condition .

Rob Szczepanek - Ventura County FD has all Rosenbauer apparatus, purchase a quint, water recycling trailers has saved millions of gallons of water while training – drilling. Had a “heat related” illness that was reported as “Heat Exhaustion” which should not be used as were not Ds – we do not diagnose.

Steve Cooley – COBRA Litter – will have a sample at next meeting that addresses the enhancements requested by SAFER members.

Jim Clearey – Plymovent Air Exchange – Related diesel exhaust is the only listed carcinogen FF’s are exposed to everyday in the worked place. WHO has now stated diesel exhaust is a hazard as a carcinogen.

David Molinatti - Industrial Scientific – Related 35k times users have turned off their (4-gas) monitors while in alarm mode. Some relate they found the alarm distracting others related they didn’t know what to do in response to the alarm. New IS monitors actually annunciate what actions the user should take when in alarm. 

Eric Higgins – BestWay Laundry – New scanner capability to track and monitor equipment settings for proper laundering to be shown at FDIC in April.

Ryan Johnson – SoCal PPE Laundry – Class in June for PPE Class will train FF’s to conduct in house PPE inspections. Look for details.

Alexis Labbe’ – Leader Fire Equipment Supply – Discussed their company and the products they represent. Will have a booth at FDIC. Has a new line of nozzles being tested at North Net in Anaheim. Has Search-Cam equipment, FOAM supplies and rescue equipment for USAR work.

Jim Evans – Solutions Safety – Commented on the meeting today and expressed appreciation for the efforts on SAFETY being made across the nation. Related the Hood problem and related several solutions to eliminate the toxicity being detected.  Related each wash needs 3 x rinses per wash.

Keith Gurrola- Fillmore Fire – Next month’s meeting M A Y be in San Dimas Forestry HQ. or Santa Monica

May meeting is scheduled for  Ventura county Fire  

1145 Meeting adjourned to BBQ lunch hosted by Fillmore Fire Foundation.

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)

Agency / Co                 NAME              PHONE #                      EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)      Chuck Seely     (949) 492-7993             firebiz@att.net  California fire muaseum    steve hoyle        9494965688                 stbear@cox.net

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCH   JIM CLEAERY   909-720-7064

Camp Pendleton Fire ret. Jeff Wilkerson 949-830-087           jwilker@cox.net

ASTI    LACoFD Retired   Tony Duran              Firetiger2013-SAFER@yahoo.com

Los Angeles Fire Dept    Scott Quinn   213-434-1380     scott.quinn@lacity.org

CAL FIRE/ RCoFD   Scott Bethurum    951-575-5391 scott.bethurum@fire.ca.gov

Western States Fire EquipLouie Garcia   213-272-5680     lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Fillmore Fire      Keith Gurrola    805-558-0932         keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

Santa Monica Fire     John Flores    805-236-5633        john.flores@smgov.net

Industrial Scientific    David Molinatti    714-403-1915     dmolinatti@indsci.com

Cobra Litters        Steve Cooley       805-377-5348           coolnco@aol.com

Torrance Fire Dept.    Tim McAtee     310-344-1490      tmcatee@torranceca.gov

Santa Barbara Co Fire Dept.  Michael Klusyk805-896-6337m.klusyk@sbcfire.com

Ventura City Fire DeptLuis Manzano805-256-8533   lmanzano@cityofventura.net

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCHANGEJIM CLEARY 909-720-7064jcleary@airexcvhange.com

Solutions Safety     Jim Evans 770-634-0848      jime@solutionssafety.com

SoCal PPE   Ryan Johnson   619-993-1164         ryan@socalppe.com

Los Angeles Fire Department     Don Reyes    213359-1054   donald.reyes@lacity.org

Los Angeles Fire Department    John Cardenas   661-917-7019 john.cardenas@lacity.org

Bestway Laundry SolutionsEric higgins18005426166     sales@bestwayls.com

oxnard    Kevin.Schroepfer     805385-7709``    kevin,schroepfer@oxnard.org

VCFD     Robert Szczepanek   805-914-4021       Robert.Szczepanek@ventura.org

SAFER Annual Board Meeting Minutes January 20, 2017

SAFER Board Meeting

January 20, 2017

LACoFD Camp 2

1200       SAFER Board Meeting at the conclusion of the scheduled January SAFER Meeting.

The following notes are submitted by Out Going President Ells Fortman:

SAFER BOD,

First off, I want to thank you all for the support over the last two years and for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your President of this fantastic organization.  It has been a great experience and I will always cherish the relationships we have forged.

That all being said, I am very proud to present The Filmore Fire Chief, Keith Gurrola as your SAFER President for 2017-2018.

The following is a list of the 2017-2018 BOD:

• President - Keith Gurrola

• Vice President - Scott Quinn

• Secretary - Chuck Seely

• Vendor Liaison - Joe Spasato

• Immediate Past President - Ellsworth Fortman

• Treasurer - Tony Duran

• Webmaster - Jan Stance (Outgoing, replacement needed)

• Director - Mike Weisenberg

• Director - Rob Sczcepanek

• Director - Richard Weiss

• Director - Russ Snider

• Director - John Cardenas

• Director - Rick Griggs

• Director - Scott Schuster

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - January 2017

SAFER Meeting Minutes

January 20, 2017

SAFER Board Attendees:   Pres Fortman, VP Weise,Past Presidents Dolan,   Seely, Quinn, Gurrola, Vender Liaison Sposato

Los Angeles County  Fire Department

Fire Camp 2   

1010    Meeting called to order -  President B/C Fortman LAFD welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting, Thanks to Los Angeles County Fire Department for use of the facility for morning snacks and coffee.

SAFER will introduce todays program and forego the usual business meeting as the annual Board of Directors meeting will be held immediately after the scheduled monthly SAFER meeting.

Pres Fortman related the importance of SAFER and the relationships it fosters to further safety in the Fire Family”. He congratulated Board Member Scott Quinn on his recent promotion to Battalion Chief with the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Pres Fortman introduced our program presenter, Chief Kirk Owen, relating his appreciation for the assistance he provided in developing the LAFD PPE program.

1015    VP Dick Weise opened the SAFER meeting and led the flag salute and moment of silence to remember our fallen brothers and sisters in the fire, police and military.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

• Program: NFPA 1851

• Past, Present and Future

Presenter: Chief Kirk Owen, Plano Texas Fire Department (Retired)

            Former Chair of NFPA 1971 / 1851 Committee, Regional Sales Manager, Veridian

• Insert program PDF

1877 – Selection, Care and Maintenance of Wildland PPE

1851 covers PPE found in the 1971 Standard

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)

Agency / Co                         NAME                       PHONE #                              EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)        Chuck Seely (949) 492-7993    firebiz@att.net

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCHANGE   steve harris       909-973-8211                steveh@airexchange.com

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCHANGE   JIM CLEAERY   909-720-7064            jtc1@roadrunner.com

ASTI       Tony Duran  626-590-2991     Firetiger2013-SAFER@yahoo.com

Allstar Fire    Stuart Lovi        626-255-0433        stuartl@allstarfire.com

Los Angeles County Fire          Dick Weise                  951 807-1914

City of Downey Fire                Pete Browne               562.243.3393            pbrowne3473@gmail.com

Municipal Emerg.  Services    Lazaro Martinez          562-320-2385            lmartinez@mesfire.com

CAL FIRE                                  Bob Wood                   951-757-8331            robert.wood@fire.ca.gov

Kern County Fire DepatmentSteven Salkeld             661-645-2020            smsalkeld@co.kern.ca.us

LAFD Retired                           James Dolan                562-400-1298            jsdolan123@aol.com

LAFD                                        John A Cardenas         661-917-7019            john.cardenas@lacity.org

Torrance Fire                        Jon Henderson            310-977-5619            Jhenderson@torranceca.gov

Allstar                                    Joe Sposato                 626-652-0900            joes@allstarfire.com

Bestway Laundry                     Eric Higgins                 951-532-7700            ehiggins@bestwayls.com

Veridian                                  Kirk Owen                   712-260-3547            kirk@veridian.net

CAL FIRE Riverside County      Barry Owens               951-218-4309            barry.owens@fire.ca.gov

CAL FIRE Riverside County      Scott Bethurum           951-575-5391            scott.bethurum@fire.ca.gov

Fillmore City Fire                    Keith Gurrola            805-377-1491            keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

Ventura County Fire                Michael Weisenberg805-990-4326            michael.weisenberg@ventura.org

Vernon Fire                             Craig Peltier                661.618.1779            cpeltier@ci.vernon.ca.us

Vernon Fire                             Bob Farrell                  951-741-6695            rfarrell@ci.vernon.ca.us

Curtis                                       Scott Marshall             626-840-7589            smarshall@lncurtis.com

LAFD/SAFER Pres                    Ellsworth Fortman      213-700-0668            ellsworth.fortman@lacity.org

Western States Fire Equip.     Louie Garcia                909-510-4266            lgarcia@vvgtruck.com

Ventura City Fire                     Brandyn Johnson         805-551-6086            bjohnson@ci.ventura.ca.us

Curtis                                       Ashley Silcott               626-250-1772            asilcott@lncurtis.com

Ventura City Fire                     Lou Manzano            805-256-8522            lmanzano@cityofventura.net

Curtis                                       Charles Turansky        818-398-6818            cturansky@lncurtis.com

Tencate                                   Bart McCool                541-221-5002            b.mccool@tencate.com

ECMS                                       Bob Mercurio            562-266-8465            bmercurio@ecmsinc.biz

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - December 2016

SAFER Meeting Minutes

December 16, 2016

SAFER Board Attendees:   Pres Fortman, VP Weise, Seely, Quinn,

Santa Fe Springs Fire Department

 Santa Fe Springs Fire Headquarters   

1010    Meeting called to order – D/C Hayward welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting,. Thanks to Santa Fe Springs Fire Department for use of the facility and Ruth with Santa Fe Springs FDfor morning brunch and coffee.

1015    VP Dick Weise opened the SAFER meeting and led  the flag salute and moment of silence to remember our fallen brothers and sisters in the fire, police and military.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

• Program: “Burn It Down”- Bomb Factory House

Presenter: Nick Vent – San Diego County Haz-Mat (Retired)

 HazMat and Safety Training

Introduced a 2 –Day course that will be offered through DOT in March, 2017 in the LA Area. Flyer to be forwarded to list via email.

Escondido California 1954 Scott

Gardener stepped on a stone while clearing brush which exploded, injuring him. Medics responded and assessed the victim (one was a HazMat FF) and treated the victim. The FD responded PD who took the scene over as a crime scene.

On scene FD turned their radio to all-call and stated “may-day, may-day we need PD assistance” which caused a mass response from all resources in the area.

The issue of jurisdiction arose:

• San Diego Sheriff

• Escondido PD

• San Marcos Fire

• County Haz-Mat

6 Mason Jars of unknown material were located – found to be 98% pure organic peroxide (HMTD – Hexamethylene Tri-Peroxide Diamine-). Jars had signs of rust on the jars.

Fusion Center found the tenant was a naturalized US citizen of Russian origin. His wife was still a Russian citizen. Had made numerous trips to Mexico in the prior month and had purchased commercial Castor Beans for unknown purposes. Pack-Rat conditions revealed numerous materials that are pre-curses for HMTD.  

5# HMTD was the chemical – explosive used in the London bus bombing.

HMTD:

• Citric Acid (Vitamin C)

• Hexamine (Sterno)

• Hydrogen Peroxide – Commercially / Consumer

• Methyl / Ethyl Alcohol

Dissolve Haxamine

Cool

DEH HazMat was responded by SD Co Sheriffs Bomb squad as they left their station as “Tec-Refs”

Objective: to render SAFE the 6 mason jars of HMTD

Video of the individual jars was shown to demonstrate the relative power of the material (HMTD)

Several methods to accomplish this was studied by FBI Bomb experts and HazMat staff. One problem was the remaining HMTD in the soil. The suspect had been dumping his waste in the gravel behind the house. They decided to make a mixture of 5% Sodium Hydroxide and XXX to reduce the Ph

9th Civil Support Team out of Los Alamitos was able to respond and provide assistance to the incident.

DTRA – Defence Threat Reductiion Agency, Fed State EPA and Lawrence Livermore Laboratory.

DEH pursued mapping and plume predictions.

Bomb Squad utilized Ahura RMX was used to run samples in the backyard

Interview with suspect”George” :

• No radiation

• No Ricin, Castor Beans only

• HMTP referred to as “Puffer Powder”

• Hydrogen Peroxide

• Sulfuric Acid

• Hydrogen Cyanide

• Bulk Lead

• Fragmentation (Pineapple) grenade molds

• Precursors for Nitro-Glycerin

• Quantities of PETN

• Whole hand grenades

• Lab gear used to do chemistry

• Equipment to increase potency of various chemicals.

• Bulk ammunition of various calibers

• “Dye Packs” with $$ attached from multiple bank robberies in the San Diego area.

• 50 garage door openers

• Christmas “ornaments”

• Door-Bell was wired to a switch

• Camo material

• Ammo Boxes full of all kinds of bomb making materials

• Home-made Blasting caps, made from shell casings with light bulb filaments imbedded in HMTD. Tested by Bomb Tec’s – all worked

• Home-Made Thermite in jars

• 14# of finished HMTD

• Tracking Devices (from Bank robberies)

• Police Uniform

• Various disguises

Damage to the residence was noted from numerous accidental explosions which occurred as the suspect made various bomb types.

Finding the scene to be so un-safe to continue, Command stopped work and regrouped to determine the safest method of mitigating the hazard. A meeting of all stake holders found some opposition but after fully explaining the rational, finally agreed to the tactic. IAP’s, media notification, necessary evacuations were planned. All accessible evidence was collected to remove as many toxics from the down-stream plume. 

They decided to burn the house and all contents  

60 Agencies involved: Local, County, State, Federal as limited military as Technical Reference sources.

Video of Jan Caldwell (PIO for SD Sheriffs Dept) was shown. She explained various questions by the media which helped to ease certain concerns of the public. A “Town-Hall” meeting was held.

A Local Declaration of Emergency was issued; State Agencies were tapped to assist in the clean-up and financial issues.

A “Fire Wall” was built to protect adjacent properties. ($20,000)

Used a Web Page to provide info to public

Air Monitoring strategy was developed to document the environment during and after the planned fire out to 2 miles. (Model showed the plume to stay within 75’ of the property). Heat measurement was used to insure the heat level was reached that would destroy the chemicals on site. Smoke went 2600’ straight up during the fire.

HazMat Incinerators run at 1900 degrees, the interior temp of the house was 2600 degrees. A Burn Plan was used to burn the chemicals stored in the living areas then expose and spread into the bedrooms.

Numerous chemicals were targeted for monitoring, including radiological isotopes.

Property Owner was offered $100,000 by the county. She refused and

George Jakubek was given 30 years for the bank robberies

He admitted making exposives

1130

Next Meeting in LACoFD

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

AllStar and Curtis and Plymovent

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)

Agency / Co                                         NAME PHONE #                                             EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)                                    Chuck Seely     (949) 492-7993           firebiz@att.net

Downey Fire                                        Peter Browne(562) 243-3393           pete.browne@downeyfire.org

PLYMOVENT/AIR EXCHANGE             JIM CLEAERY   909-720-7064            jtc1@roadrunner.com

SD County HIRT - Retired                    Nick Vent         619-778-9500            Hazmatvent@gmail.com

LAFD                                                    Ellsworth Fortman 661-645-1810       ellsworth.fortman@lacity.org

CURTIS                                                            Scott Marshall 626-840-7589            smarshall@lncurtis.com

Los Angeles County Fire                      Dick Weise      951 807-1914              rweiselacofd@yahoo.com

Los Angeles County Fire                      Chris Marangakis (562) 553-2619      chris.marangakis@gmail.com

Fillmore City Fire                                Keith Gurrola805-558-0932            keithg@ci.fillmore.ca.us

Ventura Co, Fire                                  Robert Szczepanek 805-914-4021      Robert.Szczepanek@ventura.org

SAFER Monthly Meeting Minutes - November 2016

SAFER Meeting Minutes

November 18, 2016

SAFER Board Attendees:   President Fortman, VP  Weise, ,Quinn, Seely, Alvarado, Past President Duran, Past President Dolan

Long Beach Fire Department

 Headquarters   

0900 – 0945    Vender Display / Networking         

1000    Meeting called to order –  B/C President Fortman (Batt 13)  welcomed SAFER and opened the meeting , introduced B/C Alvarado (LBFD) who led the flag salute and moment of silence to remember our fallen brothers and sisters in the fire, police and military. Thanks to LBFD for use of the facility and John Price - MES for hospitality lunch.

SAFER email : SAFER.Members@gmail.com, twitter, facebook etc.

1000 – 1130    Presentation – Assistant Chief Corey Rose -“Firefighter Behavioral Health”

• Program: FD/LEO Command Operations

 Chief Ed Hadfield – Rincon Fire Department / Firetown Training Specialist

Email: ehadfield@rincontribe.org

“One Team – Command Concepts” – Command Concepts for the New Normal” pp

A concept developed in Huntington Beach FD & PD. They wanted to better coordinate first responders at / during major events and incidents. The concept was a “Segway” to promote the use of “Incident Command System” within the “LAW” side like the “FIRE” side uses frequently.

Chief Hadfield related the risks in the City of Santa Maria (MS 13 etc.) “thrill” murders which forced the FD/LEO units to coordinate using IC system routinely for daily operations.

The concept of routinely utilizing the ICS is based as an “organic level”, at the basic operational level. Patrol Officers, Sergeants levels MUST buy in to be successful. 

Command puts people at risk, our job is to determine the “Level of Risk” we’re willing to expose them to.

Our job is to put people at risk to serve the community, the LAW side’s job is to provide overwatch to protect our people and the public.

FD/LEO Goal: “You home, I go home”

Personal “Medical Plan”: Each LAW member produced a medical plan that was carried within the B/C’s car in case an officer was injured. The medics would take the info to the hospital. Includes everything about the officer as well as specific instructions he wants to be done on his behalf.

B/C’s would attend briefings prior to high risk warrant services, major crime incidents and similar event profiles. Casualty Collection Points (CCPs), Com. Plan, Staging locations and Hospital locations determined during briefing.  Mutual Aid assets, Auto Aid agencies with non-common communications need to be identified and policy / procedures for mitigation planned.

P.R.I.D.E.S.

P – Patrol Culture

R – Respond – Need to respond with LAW on routine calls to contribute at the CP

I – Initiate – Involve yourself in the Command

D – Decide

E- Evaluate

S - Serve

In Santa Maria benefits were noted in many critical incidents where assets were on scene and positioned for quick response.

Chief Hadfield recommended “Plate Carriers” in lieu of traditional body armor. The front side was for the public, the back has equipment for the team member: Israeli bandages, tourniquets, dressings etc. Ballistic helmets were utilized by fire service.

Radio traffic needs a Tactical Channel for the incident.

B/C Fortman (LAFD) related LAPD has outstanding policies to include FD/EMS in briefings. Rescue Task Forces are outside the IDLH but proximate to the incident. They have “Tactical Medics” with dual band radios to communicate with both sides. The Tactical Medics are to provide aid to team members, the Rescue Task Force provides aid to victims, perp’s.

Discussion on whether to wear “Fire Gear” over body armor or “blend” into appearance of other incident members. Chief Hadfield feels it’s better to appear as menacing as possible to avoid being a “Target in Yellow Brush Gear”.

Chief related he produced a “Ten Things LAW should not do at a structure fire”.

****************************************************************************************

• Business Meeting:

Dues: Please pay annual dues per website fee schedule.

1130 -1200 Roundtable

• Roundtable:

Alex Warehouse

Robert Takashida LAFD: Risk Management Chief

Ron Barome - Burbank Fire- Training Officer

Scott Quinn LAFD: Medical Liaison Officer related LA has many medical claims every year. Injuries, Illnesses, equipment

Chad Stuart LAFD: New member in Risk Management – Litigation liaison.

Ken Cardenas LAFD Safety Coordinator- Looking into overhaul procedures graduated 42 members with two more in process. JOIN LAFD.org

B/C Fortman LAFD – New EMS Bureau assignment. LAFD down to 200 vacancies from last year’s 300. New resources are coming on-line this year. SAFER board meeting in early December to plan next board. Recognized Capt Jim Dolan’s contribution to LAFD Safety Programs.

Mike Schlagg- Cart System: new tires will be available for off road, loop to be added to attach ropes to rear.

Steve Cooly – Cobra Carts representative: Discussed design changes to improve the performance / utility of the Cobra Cart System. Rated at 1000#, black unit for SWAT operations.

Jim Dolan LAFD Retired – Words of wisdom

Lazaro Martinez – Cascade Fire Equipment – Manufacture of skid units, distributor of PPE and fire equipment.

Stuart Luvi – AllStar Fire Equipment – Recommended attending the Hawaiian Fire Chiefs Association Annual Meeting on Maui. $200/night at Ritz-Carlton. $25 to join association. Related the newest SCOTT IR equipped mask.

Dick Weise LACoFD – NFPA Safety Briefing on washing hoods coming out. CA concerns and contamination reduction are

1877 document for SCAM of Wildland Ensemples. Working on new “lighter” fire shelters. Dozers and helicopter pilot gloves are being reviewed. Dual compliancenew station pants are being purchasing Station / wildland pants as a PPE. Undergarment to be bought out of uniform allowances. Helmet liners are a concern in units that don’t have removable liners for cleaning. Hoods to filter out contaminates down to one micron (98% of what’s in smoke). REM Teams: Rapid Emergency Medics. Cancer reduction program coming – NFPA, IAFF contributing to a package program.

John Price (JP) LACoFD Retired – Arranged use of facility. MES distributor of PPE and fire equipment.

Firefighter Cancer Support Network Vice President – Brian Feebers Pasadena Fire Marshal new President. Related recommendations for reducing CANCER risks: Clean / Replace soiled hoods, leave contaminated gear OUTSIDE, clean as per 1855. Buy cleaning packets to reduce skin contact transmitted toxins from tools and skin.

Tom Martin – Atwood-Prior, Inc. – Manufactures representative for several companies.

• next meetings:

1. December @ Santa Fe Springs    

2. January 20, 2017 @ LACoFD Camp 2                                                      

Meeting Attendees (Sign-ins)        November 18th, 2016

Agency / Co                                   NAME PHONE #                                 EMAIL (s)

Downey Fire (Retired)                  Chuck Seely     (949) 492-7993           firebiz@att.net

Cascade Fire Equipment Co          Lazaro Martinez 714-715-8189          lazaro@cascadefire.com

Allstar Fire Equipment                  Stuart Lovi 626-255-0433                   stuartl@allstarfire.com

Ammonia Safety Training Institute - ASTI            Tony Duran 626-590-2991      Firetiger2013-SAFER@yahoo.com

Los Angeles County Fire                Dick Weise 951 807-1914                   rweiselacofd@yahoo.co

LAFD Retired                                 Jim Dolan        562-421-3258            jsdolan123@aol.com

LAFD                                            John A. Cardenas 661-917-7019         john.cardenas@lacity.org

Rincon Fire Department               Ed Hadfield 9518582444                    ehadfield@rincontribe.org

Cobra Litters LLC                        Mike Schlags   805-896.7993            mschlags@cobralitter.com

Los Angeles Fire Department       Chad Stuart 213 4826933                   chad.stuart@lacity.org

Burbank FD                                   Ron Barone 818-823-6560                  rbarone@burbankca.gov

Atwood-Prior MFGR Rep            Tom Martin 937-689-2222                 tmartin@firebrigade.com

Cobra Litters LLC                        Steve Cooley   805-377-5348            coolnco@aol.com

long beach                                                paul alvarado562 5703003               paul alvarado

MES                                               John Price        562-212-6803            jprice@mesfire.com

LAFD                                              Scott Quinn     (213) 434-1380           scott.quinn@lacity.org

Vender’s, Manufacture’s and Consultants represented at this meeting:

Michael Schlags – Cobra Rescue Litters

mschlags@cobra litters.com

P.O. Box 1981

Buellton[CS1]  , CA 93427-1981

(805) 896-7993

www.cobralitter.com

Spencer, Iowa   51301

Lazaro Martinez – Cascade Fire Equipment Co.

lazaro@cascadefire.com

(626) 255-0433 Cell

Tom Martin – Atwood-Prior, Inc.

Manufacturers Agent

(937) 689-2222

tmartin@repagency.host

2895 Valpak Rd. N.E.

Salem, OR97303

(800) 545-5678

 [CS1]