Firefighter Connection Newsletter, February 18, 2024

NEWS
Firefighter Killed, 10 Hurt in Sterling, VA, House Explosion

Ten Loudoun County firefighters were injured following a house explosion involving a large propane tank in Sterling.

Firehouse.com News

Loudon County fire officials confirmed the death of a firefighter late Friday, following a violent explosion that left a dozen people injured in Sterling, VA.

Firefighters from the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company, and Loudoun County responded to a reported gas leak outside a home on Silver Ridge Drive in Sterling around 7:30 p.m., according to NBC Washington.

"Upon arrival, units from Sterling located a 500-gallon underground propane tank with a leak on the side of the residence and requested the Loudoun County’s Hazardous Materials Response Team," Loudoun County Fire Rescue shared in a statement. "A short time later, units on scene reported a catastrophic explosion concurrent with multiple maydays from firefighters inside the residence."

“The house is pretty much leveled,” NBC reported that a firefighter called in on the radio after the blast. Debris covered a large area around the home.

The explosion and subsequent mayday calls prompted the response of a Rapid Intervention Task Force and a second alarm, fire officials said. Units from Sterling, South Riding, Fairfax County and Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority responded to the scene.

Multiple local news outlets reported that one firefighter was trapped in the debris for an extended period of time. 

According to WUSA9.com, all firefighters were accounted for by 10:15 p.m., with several wheeled away on stretchers.

Multiple videos from the scene (see below) show what appears to be part of a garage and a chimney were the only parts of the structure remaining. 

The department confirmed that 10 firefighters with varying injuries. Two civilians sustained non-life threatening injuries.

Crews from Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal’s Office responded and began their investigation into the cause of origin of the explosion.

"We appreciate the continued support of the community and our public safety partners during this incredibly difficult time. Please keep our Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System members, their friends, families, and all those involved in your thoughts," the department said. 

HIRING
Colorado Springs, CO Firefighter Hiring Process.

Firefighter (Entry-Level Firefighter)

We administer an entry-level testing process one to two times a year to establish a list of qualified candidates for our annual or bi-annual recruit academy(s).

The process begins with our job posting for a building of an eligibility list. During this time, you will need to have or obtain your National Emergency Medical Technician Basic (EMT-B) Certification OR State of Colorado EMT-Basic Certification, take the National Testing Network (NTN) written exam, and take the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT). Certifications must be uploaded to the department no later than August 7th, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. CSFD Entry-Level-Upload-Links. 

Top-scoring candidates will be invited to fill out a formal application, AND then take the online video interview. Selected candidates will be given conditional offers of employment and will start the pre-employment screening.

Individuals who are offered a final offer will be required to successfully complete our 20-week recruit training academy. The composition of the class will depend upon the needs of the department.  

Schedule of Events

January 21, 2024 – August 7, 2024: Building of an eligibility list for Recruit Academy (Jan/Feb 2025)

• Create an account on the National Testing Network (NTN) by scheduling an exam.  https://nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/COLORADO

• Complete the NTN FireTEAM online written exam ($55 one -time fee paid to NTN).

(PSSA not required for CSFD)

• Click here to see what's covered on the NTN Written Exam.

• Click here to see available NTN practice tests.

• The NTN online FireTEAM Written Exam is a required step that is self-scheduled and completed by the candidate. The number of open testing slots varies by day. Candidates can also take the test at a testing location https://nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/testing-locations.cfm. Candidates should plan accordingly and schedule their exam ahead of time.

• Submit EMT-B, CPR and CPAT Certifications.

August 9, 2024 – August 22, 2024.

• Top candidates are invited to fill out a formal application and complete the Spark Hire interview.

TESTING
Get Ready Now For The Firefighter Testing Process.

GEAR AND TECHNOLOGY
Cutting-Edge Tools for Firefighters

There is an adage that is often still heard in the fire service, “100 years of tradition unimpeded by progress”. When it come to be effective firefighters this old saying no longer applies. These Cutting-Edge Tools for Firefighters are state of the art in the fire service.

Firefighter love and cherish their traditions and proud history. Throughout my years as a firefighter and Fire Chief I saw this on a nearly daily basis. At times this was taken so far that safety was, in my opinion, compromised because of these strong beliefs. Yes, I can already see the hate emails building up in my inbox.

Change can be tough, especially in the fire service. As quoted by Retired Phoenix Fire Chief Alan Brunacini stated: “Firefighter hate two things; change and the way things are”. With this being said, I think in some areas we are seeing change that will improve safety and efficiency.

In this world of ever-changing advancements in communication, and technology Firefighter are now welcoming changes in the fire service this are so proud of.

Firefighters now have access to cutting-edge tools that revolutionize their ability to combat fires, navigate hazardous environments, and save lives.

In this blog post, we will explore the latest advancements in firefighting equipment, discussing how these tools have evolved and how they contribute to the safety and success of firefighters on the front lines.

We will also examine the tools and technology available for incident command, empowering leaders to manage complex operations efficiently.

Improved Communication and Tracking Systems:

Communication and tracking systems have become essential in promoting efficient coordination and ensuring firefighter safety. Advanced radio systems with enhanced range, clarity, and multiple channels enable seamless communication.

Read more about new incident command technology by click here

These systems also support encrypted communication, ensuring secure and confidential information exchange during critical operations.

Incident commanders can utilize incident management software platforms that provide real-time incident tracking and resource allocation. These software solutions enable commanders to have a comprehensive overview of the incident, including the location of firefighters.

Some software platforms also integrate with mobile applications, allowing firefighters to access critical information on their smartphones or tablets.

Evolution of Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the first line of defense for firefighters. This PPE, often called Turn-out gear or Bunker Gear, has undergone significant improvements to provide enhanced protection and comfort.

Modern firefighting PPE are now made of advanced fire-resistant materials, such as aramid fibers and advanced synthetic blends, that offer increased thermal protection while remaining lightweight and flexible. This new bunker gear incorporates moisture-wicking technologies, such as breathable membranes and moisture-resistant liners, to keep firefighters cool and dry during intense firefighting operations. Some PPE also includes built-in cooling systems that circulate cool air to prevent heat stress.

Firefighter Thermal Imaging Technology:

Thermal imaging cameras have been a welcome tool for firefighters for some time now. There “cameras” allow firefighters to “see” through smoke and darkness. However, new advances have made these tools more effective, lighter, and smaller. In some cases, even incorporating them in SCBAs.  

The latest thermal imaging technology provides sharper and more detailed images, enabling firefighters to quickly identify hotspots, locate victims, and assess structural integrity. These cameras now offer higher resolution and sensitivity, allowing for greater clarity in identifying potential hazards.

Additionally, advancements in image processing algorithms and software have improved image analysis capabilities, enabling firefighters to detect hidden fire sources and track changes in temperature patterns more effectively.

Thermal imaging cameras are now more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry and use during firefighting operations.