http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/rss News articles published on nejfd.org using RSS 2.0 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 13:11:33 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=183 The Webster Fire Department and Penfield Ambulance responded this morning to a reported motor vehicle crash with injuries on Plank Road just east of State Route 250. 1C40 arrived and reported a vehicle crash that was blocking and one injury. Preliminary investigation revealed that a vehicle traveling east on Plank Road struck the rear of an equipment trailer that was stopped on the south shoulder. There was major damage to the sedan and luckily the driver was not seriously injured. The Webster Fire Police assisted with closing down Plank Road while the scene was cleaned up. Photos submitted by Webster Fire Captain Steve Andrews. Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:24:30 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=183 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=182 On Friday, January 20th, at 0630 Hrs the Webster Fire Department was dispatched to a Webster Fairport Nine Mile Point Road address (Route 250) for a reported house fire. While in route another call came in reporting thick black smoke in the area. Command arrived on scene and declared a working fire in a residential home. Webster Fire was assisted at the scene and by providing fill in companies by the Union Hill, West Webster, Penfield and Lincoln Fire Departments. The blaze took approximately 25 minutes to bring under control. There was extensive damage to the interior of the home. The fire investigation is being conducted by the Monroe County Fire Bureau. News Links: http://www.whec.com/news/stories/S2461422.shtml?cat=565 http://www.mcfw.com/?p=6073 http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012120120001 http://www.penfieldpost.com/features/x1251827480/House-fire-in-Penfield-displaces-67-year-old-man Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:33:09 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=182 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=181 Calls for service in the North East Joint Fire District rose 6.2% in 2011 over the 2010 numbers. The Webster Fire Department experienced an increase of over 10% for calls for service and the Union Hill Ambulance experienced over a 6% increase in ambulance calls. In 2011 Webster Fire responded to 963 calls and Union Hill Ambulance responded to 1580 calls for service. The Union Hill Fire Department experienced a 10% decrease in the number of fire related calls within the NEJFD. Our community owes an enormous amount of gratitude to all of the volunteer firefighters of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department and the volunteers and career staff of the Union Hill Fire Department. For without the dedication and professionalism of these men and women, none of these emergency calls of need would be answered. To all of you…….thank you! Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:29:12 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=181 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=180 On January 1st, Craig W. Akins was sworn in as the new Fire Chief for the North East Joint Fire District and Webster Volunteer Fire Department. Craig W. is taking over for outgoing Chief Craig M. Akins. Yes…they are father and son. "Past Chief" Craig M. Akins has served as Fire Chief for the past two years and decided not to seek another term. Craig W. Akins has been a Webster Volunteer Firefighter for nearly 37 years and is a career firefighter with the Ridge Culver Fire District. Also sworn in as Fire Commissioner for a 5 year term was Richard Swingly. Swingly was elected to this volunteer position in December and this is his second 5 year term. Also sworn in as First Assistant Chief was James Thayer and sworn in as Second Assistant was Chief Chris Smith. Congratulations to all and we owe you a huge amount of gratitude for your continued professional service to our community. Mon, 02 Jan 2012 19:07:09 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=180 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=179 On December 13th, 2011, Ruth Hosenfeld presented the Board of Fire Commissioners with a colored pencil drawing of the Enderlin Fire Station. Ruth, who is the wife of Past Chief Ron Hosenfeld, has been working on the drawing for quite some time. A few years ago Ruth had completed detailed colored pencil drawings for her children and grandchildren. When Ruth asked Ron what he would like her to draw, Ron replied the new Enderlin Station. Ruth has been working on the drawing on and off for over two years. Last year, for Christmas, Ruth created colored pencil drawings for two new grandchildren and two pictures of family dogs for her daughters. Unknowingly to the District…..we threw Ruth for a couple of loops by changing some east elevation landscaping and adding the 9-1-1 tribute sign. Ruth had to adjust her drawing to reflect these changes. Ruth has been an artist most of her life…..starting with oil painting lessons at age ten. Ruth had her drawing professionally framed before presenting it to the Board. Soon the District will be proudly displaying Ruth's framed colored pencil drawing in a prominent location in the Enderlin Fire Station on South Avenue. Ruth states that the electronic file is available if anyone would like to have a copy printed. Please contact the District if interested. Thanks Ruth!! Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:01:35 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=179 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=178 The volunteer firefighters of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department have been very busy this holiday season spreading the holiday cheer. On Saturday, December 10th, Webster firefighters assisted with the annual "Lighting of the Lights" and fireworks at Hank's Ice Cream on North Avenue. Taylor Rental Center also participated hosting the Webster Chili Cook Off. The event hosted a large crowd and included a horse drawn carriage, Santa Claus and fireworks. The Finger Lakes Regional Burn Association also brought a group of young burn survivors to the event. After the gala on North Avenue the kids from the Burn Association were welcomed into the Enderlin Fire Station for a firehouse sleepover. The Webster firefighters provided a pizza party, movie night and a scrumptious breakfast. The young burn survivors, their chaperones and the firefighters enjoyed each other's company and a great time was had by all. The event was coordinated by Assistant Chief Akins. On Friday, December 16th, volunteer firefighters of the Webster Fire Department made a special delivery to the Pirate Toy Drive at the Holt Road Wegmans. Assistant Chief Akins coordinated the event and was assisted by Elf Chief Akins, Elf Commissioner Southwell, Elf Lieutenant Sudore, and Elf Firefighters Hoffman and Fisher. Monies were donated by the Webster firefighters to purchase the toys and those funds were matched by Netzman's Appliance owner Jim Hoffman. A full story with photos can be viewed at: http://www.websterpost.com/photos/x1760084622/iSpy-A-fire-truck-full-of-toys-in-Webster On Sunday, December 18th, members of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department participated in the Seabreeze Fire Department Winter Parade. It was a perfect evening for the event and Webster crews brought Engine 103 and Rescue 107. More photos can be viewed on the Monroe County Fire Wire at this link: http://www.mcfw.com/?p=5943 Merry Christmas Everyone!! Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:41:45 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=178 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=177 On Saturday, December 10th, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department, along with Union Hill Ambulance and NEQALS, were dispatched to a Wall Road address for a female in labor. Webster Fire Lieutenant Steve Sudore and Assistant Chief Akins arrived quickly and found the patient in active labor. A few moments later the patient gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. Chief Akins and Lieutenant Sudore were assisted by Webster Lieutenant Zach Rulli and the crew of Webster Engine 105. Union Hill Ambulance and NEQALS also assisted. This wasn't the first time that Chief Akins and Lieutenant Sudore have teamed up to deliver a baby while serving as Webster Fire Officers. Back on February 19th, 2010, these two delivered a healthy baby girl at a home on Webster Road. 02/19/11: On February 09, 2010, at approximately 4:30 a.m., a call came into the Monroe County 911 Center for a maternity in progress. Webster Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Craig Akins and Lieutenant Steve Sudore arrived at the Webster Road address just a few minutes later. They found the patient in active labor and quickly realized that the birth of the baby was imminent. Assistant Chief Akins and Lieutenant Sudore immediately prepared to deliver the baby. North East Quadrant Paramedic Amanda O'Kelly arrived and these three highly qualified emergency responders got to work. They encountered some complications and worked together to perform the necessary emergency medical procedures. Webster Volunteer Firefighter Robert Buckert arrived with an emergency O.B. kit and began to assist. Through proper training and preparation these first responders successfully delivered a baby girl within minutes of their arrival. The baby girl was suctioned and began breathing on her own. The umbilical cord was clamped, cut and the baby and mother were stabilized. Both baby and mother were transported to Rochester General Hospital for further treatment and evaluation. Today both baby and mom are doing extremely well, largely in part due to the rapid and professional actions of these emergency first responders. The baby girl's grandfather was so joyful and impressed with the emergency response that he called the Webster Volunteer Fire Department Chief's Office to commend the responders. It is with great pride that we commend Webster Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Chief Craig Akins, Lieutenant Steve Sudore, Firefighter Robert Buckert and North East Quadrant Paramedic Amanda O'Kelly. A job well done! One has to ask the question….What's next…..Twins?? Unfortunately the happiness of the moment was short lived as the crews had to quickly transition into rescue mode and respond to a serious motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Klem Road and Holt Road. Crews arrived quickly from Wall Road to find a two vehicle crash with multiple patients and a person trapped. The below story was submitted by Lieutenant Zach Rulli: In the afternoon of Saturday December 10th, Webster Fire responded for the Motor Vehicle Accident with injuries at the intersection of Holt Road and Klem Road. Engine 105 went on location with a 2 car crash with multiple patients. Once a size up was performed, personnel found one victim trapped in a vehicle. Rescue 108 responded to assist as well as 1C30 in command. The victim was pinned in the passenger side of the vehicle. With the assistance of the Hurst Tool as well as ingenuity with a ratchet strap and a nearby fire hydrant, the victim was extricated. West Webster Ambulance and two Rural-Metro Ambulances transported 3 victims total with the help of NEQ ALS. Unfortunately one victim succumbed to their injuries at the Hospital. http://www.whec.com/news/stories/s2409230.shtml Wed, 14 Dec 2011 01:52:30 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=177 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=175 Enjoy some photos of the well attended 2011 Parade of Lights. Unless noted otherwise, all photos are courtesy of Brad Cowan. Seasons Greetings! Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:31:42 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=175 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=174 At approximately 10:40 am on Saturday Union Hill Fire Department was notified of a large brush fire behind 115 Route 104 in the Town of Ontario. Engine 133 responded quickly, they reported the fire would be well off the road. Engine 133 further requested a response from Webster due to the lack of water supply. Union Hill command reported a 20x20 brush fire with a hissing noise coming from the area of the fire. Command further requested RG&E for a ruptured gas line. firefighters where faced with a difficult task of shuttling water, and drafting from a small pond. Union Hill and Webster firefighters worked hard to contain and extinguish the fire. Union Hill Command reported the fire under control companies picking up. Union Hill command placed the assignment in service, turned the scene over to RG&E. Lincoln and West Webster Provided fill-ins Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:30:31 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=174 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=173 In honor of Roy Hamel, 12 Webster Volunteer Firefighters will be participating in the 2nd Annual Step It Up To Cure Pancreatic Cancer 5K Walk. The Webster Volunteer Fire Department will be donating $750.00 to the cause. The fundraiser is Sunday, November 6th. Please visit the below website link for more information...including on how to donate. http://www.stepituptocurepc.org/5k.html Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:33:10 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=173 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=172 COME AND JOIN THE COMMUNITY OF WEBSTER BY PARTICIPATING IN THE 9th ANNUAL Michael N. Smith HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Saturday, December 3, 2011 6:30 P.M. Link To Entry Form: http://www.nejfd.org/content/newsnotices The Village of Webster comes alive with the sights and sounds of the Holidays as the Webster Volunteer Fire Department Inc. in conjunction with the Webster Business Improvement District present its annual gift to the community, the Holiday Parade of Lights. Emergency response agencies from Monroe, Wayne and Ontario counties as well as community businesses participate in this colorful event and we are asking your department to join us as we begin planning for this year's parade. Companies, which participate, are asked to decorate pieces of apparatus in the holiday spirit. Last years parade offered fire engines, aerials, rescue units, ambulance, marine, and antique apparatus. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Best appearing Fire Engine Best appearing Marine apparatus Best appearing Arial/Platform Best appearing Ambulance Best appearing Rescue unit Best appearing Antique apparatus Best appearing Community entry Furthest traveled Best presented music GRAND PRIZE: MOST ORIGINAL ENTRY To register for this exciting celebration complete the registration form on page 2 and mail it with the registration fee in the amount of $25. Funds from this parade are used as a donation to the Webster Comfort Care as well as the Webster Community Chest. Completed forms may be mailed to: Holiday Parade of Lights ` C/O Webster Volunteer Fire Department 35 South Avenue Webster, New York 14580 Attn: Tom Indiano Please make registration checks payable to "WFD Holiday Parade of Lights" If there are any questions feel free to phone me at 585-802-3166. Registrations should be received by November 22, 2011 Firematically, Tom Indiano, WFD Holiday Parade of Lights chairperson Wed, 26 Oct 2011 17:16:51 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=172 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=171 2011 Howard Freckleton and Roy Hamel Endowed Scholarship: Matt Purcell is president of RIT Ambulance and recipient of the 2011 Howard Freckleton and Roy Hamel Endowed Scholarship. "The purpose of the scholarship is to recognize special young men and women in fire and EMS who have demonstrated excellence and to honor two fantastic first-responders who have answered their last calls," says Timothy Keady, RIT's associate director for wellness. "Matt is the perfect example of what these men stood for." Question: Where are you from? Answer: Cherry Hill, N.J. Q: Why did you decide to come to RIT? A: I learned about RIT's industrial engineering department during a campus visit. I liked the idea of being a part of a small group within the larger college community. Q: What are you most proud of accomplishing? A: I raised several thousand dollars for the Multiple Sclerosis Society as a VIP cyclist in the MS City to Shore ride, a two-day, 150-mile ride. Q: What is something that most people wouldn't know about you when they first meet you? A:In high school I was an intern for the Federal Aviation Administration in the Philadelphia International Airport Air Traffic Control Tower. I helped to evaluate possible safety risks and hazards in adding a runway to the current airport layout. Q: What types of things are you involved in around campus? A: I'm currently the social chair for the RIT chapter of the Institute of Industrial Engineers and an emergency medical technician, president of RIT Ambulance. Q: How did you get into RIT Ambulance (also called RITA)? A:I saw a poorly copied recruitment flyer taped on my dorm's wall during freshman move-in and impulsively signed up. I've been actively involved in RITA ever since. Q: For those who have never been part of RIT Ambulance, what is the experience like, in one sentence? A: Volunteering with RITA is like having the responsibility and dedication of a full-time job, while growing professionally and socially with your best friends at any hour of any day. Q: What is your favorite part about it? A: My favorite part is the rush of having only minutes to solve a mystery and making educated decisions that are very real. Q: Any advice you would give to other RIT students? A: Have fun. Use college not only to succeed academically, but to grow as a member of the community as well. Lastly, don't miss out on Buffalo chicken wrap days at the SAU. Scott Bureau covers student affairs for University News. Contact him at sbbcom@rit.edu with "Student Spotlight" suggestions. Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:33:29 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=171 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=170 On Thursday, October 6th, 2011, the Monroe County Joint Fire Service Leadership Council of Monroe County held their annual Firefighter Appreciation Dinner. Firefighters, EMS personnel and citizens from throughout Monroe County were honored for their meritorious service to their communities and fellow man. Webster Volunteer Assistant Chief Craig W. Akins and Firefighter John Schantz were both bestowed with the Gold Seal Award. Webster Volunteer Firefighter John Jones was bestowed with the highest achievable award, the Medal of Honor. These prestigious awards are the result of a heroic rescue on the icy waters of Lake Ontario back in March of this year. Many dignitaries were present and joined in the award presentations including Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks and New York State Assemblyman Mark Johns. You can view more photos at the Monroe County Fire Wire Link below. http://www.mcfw.com/?p=5676 All photos are courtesy of Brad Cowan. Below are the award nominations which give specific details on the life saving rescue. Gold Seal Award Nomination The Call Background: March 7, 2011 1656 Hours Lake Ontario Water Temperature: 34 Degrees Outside Air Temperature: 28 Degrees Wind Chill: 15 Degrees The Webster Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to Webster Park at 255 Holt Road, for a 16 year old male who had fallen through the ice. The original 911 information was unclear and conflicting. As units were responding to the scene information was relayed from 911 that the male was at an "ice rink" within the park. Having knowledge that there was no ice rink within Webster Park, units requested clarification and responded to the area of Lake Road and Holt Road. Webster Volunteer Firefighter (FF) John Jones was very close to the call and responded to the southwest parking lot of Lake Road and Holt Road. When FF Jones heard information about a "lighthouse" being broadcast in regards to the victim's location, he instinctively began to gather his gear and head north the lakeshore. While gathering his gear, FF Jones grabbed a long tow strap from his vehicle. This intuitive action would prove to be the difference between life and death. FF Jones observed some individuals near the lakeshore hillcrest north of his location. As he approached these individuals they frantically began to yell, "You have to help him…. he's going to die". As FF Jones crossed Lake Road he motioned to the arriving Chief that the victim was in the direction FF Jones was heading. This was the first confirmation of any kind in regards to the victim's actual location. FF Jones quickly descended the one hundred foot high and steep lakeshore hillside to the shore of Lake Ontario. He quickly climbed out onto the ice shelf to the victim's location. What he found was a 16 year victim having extreme difficulty staying above the water's surface and struggling to stay alive. The Incident Scene Description: The hillside just to the south of the victim's location was approximately 100 foot in height above the shoreline. The hillcrest had a 4' high chain link fence with a locked swing gate. The hill was very steep and cluttered with vegetation overgrowth, rocks and uneven ground. The path from the top of the hill down to the location of the victim was extremely treacherous. The shore of Lake Ontario had an ice shelf, in various stages of melting, approximately 100' out into the lake. The surface of the ice was extremely uneven and had jagged, elevated points. The victim was located approximately 50' out into the lake and could not be seen from the shore. The victim had fallen into a deep ice cavern with an opening on the top that was approximately 5 to 6 foot wide. The cavern was larger and hollowed out below and descended to the water surface. The water surface was approximately 8 to 9 foot below the top of the cavern opening. The average water depth in the cavern was 4 to 5 feet. The wave action of the lake was causing the water to surge up and down and churn against the sidewalls of the cavern. The water was filled with large jagged ice chunks and lake debris including wood chunks and logs. The victim was in the icy water at the bottom of the cavern and was viciously being thrown about inside. He was being pummeled by ice chucks, floating debris and logs, and was being thrown against the sides of the ice cavern. The conditions were described as "A Human Being Inside an Icy Washing Machine". The opening of the ice cavern was surrounded by thin and unstable ice and was dangerously close to collapsing into the water. The rescuers had to position themselves right at the edge of the unstable and slippery cavern opening, placing themselves is enormous danger of falling into the icy waters below. There was simply no time to take further precautions. If the victim wasn't immediately helped he would most likely die. The Life Saving Rescue: FF Jones was first to reach the ice cavern and the victim. The victim could not be reached from the top of the ice. In the first moments after arriving at the top of the cavern FF Jones observed the victim struggling to stay afloat. The victim had been in the 34 degree water for nearly 10 minutes and was quickly becoming weak and disoriented. FF Jones, knowing that at any moment the victim could go unconscious and slip under the water's surface, acted immediately and with incredible resourcefulness. Using the tow strap that he instinctively grabbed from his personal vehicle, FF Jones quickly formed an improvised sling and lowered it to the victim. At this point the victim was unable to communicate and was barely staying above the waterline. FF Jones had to physically maneuver the tow strap sling under the victim's arms, in a manner similar to how a marionette puppet is moved by a puppeteer. Just as the victim lost grasp of his muscular system, FF Jones positioned the tow strap under both of his arms. Using an upward pulling motion, FF Jones was able to keep the now exhausted and battered victim above the waterline. Moments later Webster Volunteer Firefighter John Schantz and Assistant Chief Craig Akins arrived at the cavern opening to assist FF Jones. Although Jones had been able to keep the victim above water, the lake's wave action was now viciously battering the victim within the ice cavern. It was quickly determined that the only way to complete the rescue was to physically pull the victim to the top of the cavern and attempt to remove him. It took the three firefighters and all of their strength to physically hoist the victim to the top of the cavern opening. Once at the top of the opening it was observed that the battering of the ice and debris below had torn all of the victim's clothing off. The firefighters had no clothing to grab onto in order to pull the victim through the opening. It took all three firefighters working together, with their collective physical strength pushed to their limits, to drag the victim through the opening and safely out of the ice cavern. Making the process even more difficult was the fact that the victim was now virtually unconscious, physically flaccid and could not in any way assist with his removal. The Aftermath: Due to the brave and heroic actions of the three firefighters listed above, the victim was removed from the ice cavern and now lay naked and wet on the surface of the ice. The three firefighters, physically exhausted, immediately began to stabilize the victim for the additional rescuers coming behind them. The victim was medically unstable and required immediate EMS intervention and rapid removal from the extreme environment he was in. Time was again critical in saving this young man's life. Refer to the related "Unit Commendation Award" that has been submitted which details the second part of this incredible life saving rescue. Firefighters John Jones, John Schantz and Assistant Chief Craig Akins, acted in an intelligent and extraordinarily distinguished manner, while performing these courageous acts involving great risk to themselves, to save the life of a fellow human being. For these incredibly heroic acts they are deserving of the Gold Seal Award. Unit Commendation Award Nomination The Call Background: March 7, 2011 1656 Hours Lake Ontario Water Temperature: 34 Degrees Outside Air Temperature: 28 Degrees Wind Chill: 15 Degrees The Webster Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to Webster Park at 255 Holt Road, for a 16 year old male who had fallen through the ice. A dramatic rescue unfolded and is thoroughly described in the related Gold Seal Award. Due to the brave and heroic actions of three Webster Volunteer Firefighters listed in the Gold Seal Award, a 16 year old victim was removed from the icy waters of Lake Ontario. The victim had been in the 34 degree water for over 20 minutes and had been subjected to a horrific thrashing within the ice cavern he was trapped in. He now lay naked and wet on the surface of the ice. The victim was medically unstable and required immediate EMS intervention and rapid removal from the extreme environment he was in. Time was critical in saving this young man's life. The Incident Scene Description: The hillside just to the south of the victim's location was approximately 100 foot in height above the shoreline. The hillcrest had a 4' high chain link fence with a locked swing gate. The hill was very steep and cluttered with vegetation overgrowth, rocks and uneven ground. The path from the top of the hill down to the location of the victim was extremely treacherous. At the top of the hill there were no parking areas to stage equipment or vehicles and the only connection from the road to the hillcrest was through a very wet and muddy picnic area. The shore of Lake Ontario had an ice shelf, in various stages of melting, approximately 100' out into the lake. The surface of the ice was extremely uneven and had jagged elevated points. The victim was located approximately 50' out from the shoreline. The Life Saving Rescue: A Command Post was established right on Lake Road just west of Holt Road. The only suitable area to stage equipment and apparatus was on the paved roadway. Under the leadership of Chief Craig M. Akins the responding members of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department quickly and proficiently went to work to save this young man's life. From a Command perspective all of the essential priorities were quickly and efficiently achieved. The radio channel was secured, a command post and staging area established, and the requests for additional and specialized resources were made. Active command communication directed the incoming resources to the specific location they needed to be in order to be effective. Time was definitely a priority due to the worsening medical condition of the victim and the harsh environment he was in. The volunteer firefighters quickly forced open the locked gate gaining improved access to the hillside. Firefighters began shuffling essential medical supplies and rescue equipment down the hillside and out to the patient. While firefighters and paramedics packaged the unstable patient in a rescue basket, other firefighters seamlessly began readying a rescue rope rig. Due to the rapidly deteriorating condition of the victim the decision was made that a "single pull" ascension up the hill would have to be made. By the time firefighters had carried the victim to the bottom of the hill the other firefighters had the rescue rope system readied for the pull. Still other firefighters were simultaneously readying a back up rigging system in the event the primary system failed. Without delay and in a seamless manner, the members of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department lifted the victim up the steep and complicated hillside. It was an extraordinarily difficult task which left the firefighters literally exhausted. The victim was quickly carried to a waiting ambulance and transported to Strong Memorial Hospital for treatment. The long range outlook for the victim's recovery points to a full recovery. The Aftermath: The members of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department who assisted in this rescue acted intelligently and collectively as a team. The exceptional result was the "true" saving of a young man's life. For without the distinctive and meritorious actions of all the Webster Volunteer Firefighters involved, the outcome likely would have been a tragedy of the highest order. Refer to the related "Gold Seal Award" that has been submitted which details the initial part of this incredible life saving rescue. scs 10/11/11 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:30:27 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=170 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=169 Last fall the Webster Volunteer Fire Department was fortunate enough to bring on 12 new volunteer recruits. These new volunteers would be assigned firefighter numbers that would include the number 343. At the suggestion of firefighter Bill Moranz and with the approval of Chief Akins, Webster firefighter number 343 would be "retired" in honor of the 343 New York City Fire Department Firefighters killed in the line of duty on September 11, 2001. A "911 Committee" was formed to explore the possibility of having a custom firefighting helmet made and have displayed as a constant reminder of the extraordinary losses suffered on that horrific day. The committee was chaired by firefighter Bill Moranz and included Past Chief Rob Sabin, Past Chief Bill Southwell and Lieutenant Bryan Mason. The memorial helmet was presented at a service on 09/11/11. The helmet will be displayed at the Enderlin Fire House on South Avenue in the antique hand pumper display area. May we never forget the events of 911 and Godspeed to all those who continue to serve. Below are some news links that contain more information and many photos. http://www.mcfw.com/?p=5581 http://blogs.democratandchronicle.com/webster/ Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:03:43 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=169 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=167 August 17th, 2011: At the August 17th Board of Fire Commissioners Meeting, Past Chief Ron Hosenfeld announced that he was donating a large firefighting book collection to the NEJFD reading library. Past Chief Hosenfeld and his wife Ruth have personally inscribed each book with their donation information and all of the books have been placed in the Enderlin Station reading room. The collection includes a diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction titles by many renowned authors. The books are available to all District firefighters to borrow, read and return for further enjoyment by others. It is a great honor for the District to have this wonderful collection in its library and all of us send Past Chief Hosenfeld our deepest thanks and gratitude. List of Book Collection Donated: Title Author The Collapse by Harry Ahearn, Ret. Lt./ FDNY The Donnovans by Harry Ahearn, Ret. Lt./ FDNY B-Shifter by Nick Brunacini, Ret. F.F. Phoenix F. D. Laughter, Tears, Muffled Drums Phil Burns, Ret. Dept. Chf./ FDNY Lights and Sirens by Phil Burns, Ret. FDNY Bringing everybody home by Phil Burns, Ret. FDNY The Last Men Out by Tom Downey When The Bronx Burned by John J. Finucane The Usual by John J. Finucane Ring Of Fire by George Hall The Twelfth Hour by Paul Hashagen Thoughts on Fire by Dr. Frank McCluskey Heat by Peter A. Micheels Firefight-inside the battle to save the Pentagon by Patrick Creed and Rick Newman Where it is Hot by Connie O'Brien Last Man Down by David Poisner Triangles of Fire by Jack Siler Firefighters by Dennis Smith Glitter and Ash by Dennis Smith Report from Ground Zero by Dennis Smith Steely Blue by Dennis Smith Thirty Years on the Line by Leo Stapleton, Ret.Chf. Commissioner/FDNY Billy Simpson's Journals by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm. FDNY Cap'n by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm., FDNY Commish by Leo Stapleton, Ret.Chf./Comm., FDNY Deputy by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm., FDNY D.F.C. by Leo Stapleton, Ret.Chf./Comm., FDNY FFOPS by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm., FDNY Jakes by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm., FDNY LUFTS by Leo Stapleton, Ret. Chf./Comm., FDNY Firefighting Reflections by Leo Stapleton, Ret. FDNY Ignitor by Charles D. Taylor Maltese Cross by Vinnie Toland Jr., District Chf. Manchester N.H. Common Valor by Frank Viscuso, Capt., Kearney NJFD Strong of Heart by Thomas Von Essen, FDNY It Takes a Man to Cry by Steve Whalen The Heart behind the Hero by Curt & Karen Yoder The Blackened Shield by Don Whitney, Ret. F.F., Portland Maine The Loo by Don Whitney by Ret. F.F., Portland Maine Donated by Past Chief Ron Hosenfeld, 8 /15/2011 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 17:38:44 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=167 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=166 Story and Photos Submitted by Firefighter Bohdan Ersteniuk. On 8/27/11, Webster Volunteer Firefighters William Burgess, Bohdan Ersteniuk, Zach Rulli and Lieutenant Bryan Mason attended the Smoke, Flames and Courage event in Rochester. Webster's Engine 105 was proudly displayed and visited by many members of the public. Events participated in included the bucket brigade, hand pumper and steam pumper operations at a simulated fire. Bohdan Ersteniuk Fri, 02 Sep 2011 16:10:35 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=166 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=165 On August 15th and 16th the Webster Volunteer Fire Department hosted a 2 day Advanced Vehicle Fire Investigations training class. The training was presented by Liberty Mutual Insurance and the ATF (Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms), and coordinated by Webster Fire Captain Stephen Andrews. The training included 58 attendees from all across New York State. The training was conducted at the Roseland Station located at Plank and Salt Roads. The training included the construction a temporary garage like structure that was wired with sophisticated sensing and monitoring equipment. Webster firefighters were also part of Monday evening's live burn portion of the training. Smaller vehicle fires were conducted on Tuesday the 16th and all of the vehicles were utilized for investigative training purposes. Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:46:32 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=165 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=164 08/09/11: On Tuesday morning, August 9th, Webster Fire Captain Fedele and firefighters Hoffman, Darcy, Ersteniuk, and Ryan and Chris Bradford, assisted the Rochester Museum and Science Center in welcoming an extraordinary 9-1-1 exhibit. The Webster contingent assisted the welcoming with Truck 100. The emergency responder welcoming was coordinated by Union Hill Fire Chief Brian Ball. Please click on the news links below for more information. Short synopses of portions of the exhibit are as follows. On the morning of September 11, 2001, Sirius (k-9 bomb unit dog) and his partner, Officer David Lim, were at their station in the basement of the World Trade Center's South Tower. When Lim heard the sound of an explosion, he thought a bomb had gone off inside the building. Leaving Sirius in his kennel, Lim rushed off to help with the rescue effort, promising to return and get him. Officer Lim was trapped in the falling debris of Tower One for more than five hours and Sirius died in the collapse of Tower Two. Sirius was the only canine lost in the World Trade Center attack. His body was recovered on January 22, 2002. Sirius received full Police Honors when his body was carried out of Ground Zero. The label copy for the Jeep (as it will appear in the display) Is as follows: Port Authority Police jeep In the aftermath of the 1993 World trade center bombing, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey established a K9 bomb detection program. Bomb technician David Lim and his beloved dog, Sirius, used this Jeep Cherokee on September 11. Although Sirius died when the towers collapsed, David was one of fourteen survivors rescued from the site after both towers came down. http://rochester.ynn.com/content/top_stories/552886/rmsc-prepares-to-display-9-11-exhibit/ http://www.13wham.com/news/local/story/9-11-Exhibit-Coming-to-Rochester/B7CAFGhXgEaznU9GR3gMlQ.cspx http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20110809/NEWS01/110809018/-1/7daysarchives/Items-9-11-memorial-exhibit-moved-into-RMSC Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:28:55 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=164 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=163 On the afternoon of August 9th, AFRICYCLE Executive Director Ben Voss ventured ahead of his charity bicycling team and arrived in the Village of Webster. Members of the AFRICYCLE group had experienced their most difficult weather day of their charity ride around Lake Ontario as they were pounded by heavy rain and thunderstorms. As they rode around the southeastern portion of Lake Ontario they experienced hours of constant heavy rain, wind and storms. The group was supposed to bed down at Webster Park, but due to the riders being tired and soaked to the bone, Ben was looking for a dry place for them to sleep. After inquiring at some local Village businesses, a citizen advised Ben that the Webster Fire Department may be able to assist. Ben arrived at the Enderlin Station on South Avenue and asked for Chief Akins. Chief Akins was contacted and advised of the group's predicament. Chief Akins graciously invited the group to spend the night at the Enderlin Station where they could cook their dinner, take a shower and dry their gear. The very professional and polite group was welcomed into the station and set up "camp" in the training room. Many members of the Webster Volunteer Fire Department, led by Lieutenant Bryan Mason, assisted the group where they could. A great group of charity riders indeed. Links to their website are below. Ride on brothers and Godspeed!! http://www.africycle.org/ http://www.rideforafricycle.com/ Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:19:15 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=163 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=117 In conjunction with the Village of Webster Village Days, the Webster Volunteer Fire Department and North East Joint Fire District are holding their annual Open House. The Open House will be on Saturday, August 13th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The Open House will be at the Enderlin Fire Station located at 35 South Avenue. This fun family event will feature many displays and kid friendly activities. All are welcome to tour the facilities and equipment presented by the volunteer firefighters who keep your community safe. The Union Hill Ambulance and their Fire Prevention house will be present, along with the North East Quadrant Advanced Life Support. (Medic 10) Refreshments will be served along with fire hats and gifts for children. Some of the activities scheduled are: • Kids Games • Bouncy House • Kids Fire Hose Challenge • Outside Sprinkler • Webster Police D.A.R.E. Car • Monroe County Sheriff's Muscle Car • Firehouse Tours • Fire Prevention Displays • Recruitment Activities • Webster Fire Department Explorers Information • Displays of Firefighting Equipment Please join us on Saturday, August 13th, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm……Rain or Shine. Tue, 26 Jul 2011 19:24:44 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=117 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=162 Over this past weekend, Commissioner Bill Southwell and Firefighter Jim Hoffman stopped by and visited the Oxbow Fire Department in Jefferson County New York. They were pleased to meet with several of Oxbow's active members and heard nothing but good things about their now front line piece….Our old Engine 105. The engine has been re-lettered and fully equipped for service. Its sleeping quarters may be a bit smaller but she is proudly serving her new community up north! Long Live the Pierce!! Mon, 25 Jul 2011 18:55:15 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=162 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=161 The Webster Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank the community for their outstanding support during the recent Webster Volunteer Fireman's Carnival. The WFD is very proud to have hosted such an awesome event and we hope everyone enjoyed themselves. See you next year! Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:08:18 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=161 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=159 07/01/11 1414 Hrs: The Webster Fire Department was dispatched to the intersection of Plank Road and Harris Road for the reported motor vehicle crash with injuries. Original dispatch information included a vehicle rollover and a victim possibly ejected. The Union Hill Ambulance was also dispatched mutual aid to Penfield and both SEQALS and NEQALS responded. Command went on scene with 2 vehicle crash with one vehicle off the roadway. Luckily the injuries were non life threatening and one victim was transported to the hospital. The crash is being investigated by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office. Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:52:15 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=159 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=158 On June 20th at 1125 Hours, the Webster Fire Department was dispatched to Kircher Park for the report of a loud explosion and a large hole in the neighbor's garage. While en-route units were advised that the incident may be a motor vehicle accident with the possibility of a person trapped. 1C20 arrived and confirmed a pickup truck into a garage with the occupant still in the vehicle. There was also a reported strong odor of gasoline within the structure. Webster firefighters pulled and charged a hand line and entered the structure to tend to the victim. Firefighters removed the large amount of debris on top of the vehicle and tended to the driver. Due to the damaged stricter being unstable the victim was rapidly stabilized, placed on a backboard and removed from the structure. Patient care was turned over to Rural Metro Ambulance and NEQALS. Preliminary investigation revealed that the pickup truck was traveling east on the State Route 104 exit ramp to North Avenue. The vehicle traveled through the intersection, exited the south side of the roadway, crashed through the barrier fence, crossed over the bike path, through a residential back yard and then crashed into the garage. The accident investigation is being handled by the Webster Police Department. Mon, 20 Jun 2011 19:08:20 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=158 http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=157 The Webster Volunteer Fire Department will be holding their annual Firemen's Carnival in just a few short weeks. Please come out to enjoy the festivities and support the Webster Volunteer Fire Department. More information can be obtained at: http://www.nejfd.org/content/webcarnival/ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 19:46:01 GMT http://www.nejfd.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=157