MARYLAND STATE F I REME N’ S Volunteer Trumpet

ASSOCIATION VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 D E C . 2 0 1 7

T H I S I S S U E Fire Department Licenses Plates FD Plates 1 By Thomas L. Flint bers of her staff to discuss low us to present our own Jewell Retires 1 Chairman, MSFA the process necessary and design without a charge. Transportation Committee cost to submit art work to Two designs were sub- President’s Corner 3 design a new tag. President mitted to the Directors for At the request of Maryland Bilger and Past President review and approval. I am State Firemen’s Association Underwood were also in happy to report that one was Dir. Edwards 3 (MSFA) President Bilger, the attendance. approved is attached to this Transportation Committee Since that meeting, I have memorandum. This is the New Column 4 was had correspondence and beginning and the first step tasked phone calls from The Di- in the process. Strategic Planning 4 to rector and staff of the The process to make the design Compliance of Maryland tag, distribution and fees art Vehicle Law and the Direc- were discussed. This is Chip’s Logbook 5 work tor and staff of the Elec- known as replating and may- for a tronics Division. They gave be a fee associated with re- MIEMMS News 8 new MSFA License Plate. The me the information and plating and this fee may not Briefs Transportation Committee, specifications necessary to be waived. There may be a attended a meeting that was submit art work for a new cost to a member. This cost Length of Service 10 held with the Maryland De- logo design. The logo on the could be a onetime charge of partment of Transportation tag is the only thing that $25.00 and would only be PPE 11 (MDOT) Administrator Chris- could be changed for various processed at the member’s tine Nizer along with mem- reasons. They agreed to al- (Continued on page 4) Legally Speaking 12

Kent Island Meeting 13 Deputy Chief Jewell Retires

NYC Training Sum- 14 By Robin K. Santangelo in 1972 as a dis- mit PIO, Frederick County patcher with Betterton VFD 16 Frederick County FREDERICK, MD – After near- Central Alarm. ly 20 years of public service, He also worked 14 Deputy Chief Clarence in communica- “Chip” Jewell has announced tions for Mont- his retirement as the direc- gomery County tor of the Frederick County Fire & Rescue Division of Volunteer Fire & Services and had Rescue Services, effective over 20 years in Dec. 31. Over the decades, the insurance Frederick County Chief Tom Owens Mr. Jewell has seen dramatic industry as an presents Deputy Chief Chip Jewell changes in the fire and res- insurance agent with his helmet upon his retirement. cue service. and insurance He began his county career education in- (Continued on page 6) P A G E 2

MSFA Officers 2015-16 The President’s Corner President Mark A. Bilger By Mark A. Bilger City. Hampstead VFC

11363 River Road As in the past, we

Ridgley, MD 21660 will be calling H. 410.374.1958

C. 443.791.4807 upon our mem- I would like to start my remarks by wishing Email— [email protected] bers to assist us all of the 35,000 volunteer fire and Emer- 1st Vice-President this session. gency Medical Service (EMS) personnel in Richard C. Blair So remember Western Enterprise Maryland a very Merry and a FC when we contact Happy New Year. Your dedication to service 10921 Roessner Ave. you and ask for your help, it is important Hagerstown, MD. 21740 saves the citizens of Maryland millions of H 301.582.3032 that you reach out to your representatives dollars each year. C 301.991.2540 and ask them to support you and all the Email—[email protected] As the holidays are upon us, it is such a volunteer fire and EMS personnel in Mary- pleasure to take comfort in family and 2nd Vice-President land. Michael Faust friends… to slow down a bit and savor Sudlersville VFC I would like to close my comments by those things that matter most. Home and 112 Norwood Dr. thank- Sudlersville, MD. 21608 health call to all of us. The holiday tradi- I would like to thank all of H 410.438.3548 ing all tions beckon us also to contemplate the C 443.262.6896 the members of the General of the Email - [email protected] year, and to reflect upon all for which we Assembly for their continued mem- support of the volunteer are grateful. Secretary Fire and EMS personnel who bers of Doyle E. Cox, P.P. The Maryland General Assembly will re- give back to their Prince Federick VFD-Calvert the communities every day. convene Wednesday, January 10, 2018, at 29132 Superior Circle Gen- Easton, MD. 21601 12:00 p.m. Once again the Maryland State H 410-690-3568 eral Assembly for their continued support Firemen’s Association will have a strong C 443-532-1416 of the volunteer Fire and EMS personnel [email protected] presents in Annapolis representing our who give back to their communities every members. Treasurer day. Ronald J. Siarnicki Past President Steve Cox and Executive United Communities VFD— Committee Member Richard Smith have Mark A. Bilger, President Queen Anne’s 2130 Priest Bridge Dr., Ste 6 been working on our Legislative Agenda Crofton, MD 21114 MSFA President, 2017-2018 since our Annual Convention and Confer- C 301-467-5780 W 301-721-6212 ence that was held this past June in Ocean [email protected]

Continued page 4

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 3

MFRI Director Edwards Recognized by the Association

By Mike Dixon, Editor has been accomplished during my tenure as Director has Kent Island, Dec. 2, 2017 -- At today's been a joint effort inspired MSFA Executive Committee Meeting and implemented by the out- Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute standing faculty, staff, and (MFRI) Director Steven T. Edwards field instructor of MRFI. This made his last report to the Association. has been coupled with the He is retiring on January 5, 2018, having strong support by the many served as MFRI's director for 25-years. statewide fire, rescue and Prior to his service with MFRI, he was EMS organizations who have with the Prince Georges County Fire worked with MFRI toward Department for 25-years, beginning as a continuing the excellence that high school cadet in 1968 and retiring as Maryland is known for Nation- Chief in 1993. ally. When I came to MFRI in In his closing remarks, Director Ed- 1993, my plan was to work wards thanked the many individuals and here for perhaps five years and then thanked the director for his service organizations that worked with him to move on. . . . It has been a true honor while presenting him with a special hon- improve emergency service training in and privilege to serve as MFRI Director or, a speaking trumpet, from the Associ- Maryland for the past 25 years. "Please and to be a part of a great organization. ation "in recognition of 25 years of out- know that I deeply appreciate each of Following the director's remarks at standing and dedicated serve as the your contributions. . . . Everything that Kent Island, President Mark Bilger Director of MFRI."

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 P A G E 4

MSFA Officers Cont. Volunteer Trumpet Welcomes New Column — Legally Speaking Financial Secretary by Mike Dixon, Editor Mitch Vocke Jarrettsville VFC—Harford In this issue of the Volunteer Trumpet, we welcome attorney and PO Box 401 Past MSFA President Roger N. Powell’s new column, legally Jarrettsville, MD 21084 speaking. Mr. Powell, a member of the Pikesville Volunteer Fire H 410-692-6914 Company, was president of MSFA in 2009-2010, and he served as C 410-808-1693 the Association’s attorney for 35 years. [email protected] Maintaining a private practice in Pikesville, he has provided representation for many emergency services agencies across the Chief Chaplain state as legal counsel. The counsellor chartered the Maryland Rev. John F. Long, Jr. Fire Rescue Services Memorial Foundation, The Maryland Fire Rescue Services Cer- Ferndale VFC—Anne Arundel tification Board, the MSFA Foundation, and other corporate bodies. 343 Cool Breeze Ct. He has also represented many of the Association’s member companies for various Pasadena, MD. 21122 matters over the years. Some of the notable fire service cases he handled included H 410-437-6756 Haavistola v Community Fire Company and Goldstein v Chestnut Ridge Fire Compa- C 443-623-0753 ny. These landmark cases with national significance are reported in multiple federal [email protected] reporters and both were won at the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals after having been won at the U.S. District Court level Mr. Powell was named to the MSFA Hall of fame in 1989, and in 2003 he was rec- ognized with the Gladhill-Thompson Trophy for his outstanding contributions to the The Volunteer Trumpet the Association. He has long been active in reviewing legislation and advising offic- ers on issues affecting the state’s volunteer emergency service members and has This periodical is issued six times served as an advisor to many MSFA committees, including the Constitution and By- a year by the Maryland State laws Committee. For 25-years he was the principal editor of the Fire Laws of Mary- land. Firemen’s Association. Its In “Legally Speaking” he will examine issues of interest to the volunteer fire, res- purpose is to publish interesting cue & EMS services. and informative articles for the

See his column on page 12 volunteer fire, rescue and EMS personnel of Maryland.

Transportation Committee Report Mike Dixon, Editor Heidi M. Coleman, Copy Editor

(Continued from page1 ) work for the new design • Procedures to replace renewal time. and the steps that will fol- your current tags. On December 2, 2017 at low. A sample license plate • Tag Numbering Send email inquires to the MSFA Executive Com- will be made for the Trans- At this time nothing has [email protected] mittee this art work for a portation Committee to changed continuing obtain-

new design and various approve. ing tags from your local steps were outlined to the When we give final ap- coordinator. The Volunteer Trumpet MSFA Executive Com- proval, we will finalize. 55 Sunnybrook Drive mittee. After discussion the Procedures: MSFA Executive Com- • Cutoff date for current Elkton, MD. 29121 mittee approved the art tag production: P A G E 5

Chip’s Firehouse Logbook: Past, Present and Future

Firehouse Holidays

found in many fire stations. Local Christmas or holiday pa- rades are traditions that almost by Chief Clarence “Chip” always involve the local volun- Jewell, III teer fire or rescue company. In

Frederick, an old time Kris Krin- This time of year, many fire gle Procession is conducted companies join in the spirit of with many characters right out the season by brightly deco- of a Charles Dickens scene. rating the stations and some- The members of the Independ- times even the apparatus. ent Hose Company No. 1 pull outlining ap- “Romeo”, the ornate 1893 Hol- paratus bay doors, Santa on “Remember, the loway Hose Carriage, through the roof and tinsel in the fire- the streets of Frederick with house brighten the stations. four year old the lanterns lit and brass bells ment station. This layout has Family Christmas parties are chiming. To the little girls been a labor of love for these held inviting all family mem- that receives the “Romeo” looks like Cinderella’s firefighters since 1955. The bers to the firehouse. Often, carriage. In many parades, it’s Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire red fire engine this event is the first exposure the fire engine that brings San- Company picked up a tradition the toddlers of members have ta to town from that was originally hosted by for Christmas to the firehouse, the North Pole. the Dundalk Fire Station. and sometimes the Firehouse train When the Dundalk Fire Station may well be first meeting with gardens are a of the Baltimore County Fire Santa. Many fire “Responses do not riding the tradition that Department ceased the train and rescue compa- stop on holidays. goes back dec- garden in 1978, the members nies hold a week- Volunteers often bucket in 20 ades and has of the Wise Avenue Volunteer end breakfast for a have to leave seen somewhat Fire Company decided to pick fundraiser. During or years. “ of a revival in up the tradition. The Wise Ave- the Christmas sea- miss opening recent years. nue train garden has been trav- son, “Breakfast packages . . . “ Engine 45 on eling the tracks since 1981. with Santa” is a Glen Avenue in Many other fire stations in popular event that Baltimore City Maryland have reinstituted this combines a big and Wise Ave- long standing tradition. breakfast with a visit from the nue in Baltimore County are Christmas sales are con- Jolly Old Guy. two of the more popular train ducted by many volunteer Some fire companies are in- gardens that have entertained companies. Members gather volved in community events, thousands of children. The around a warming barrel, often often helping decorate the members of Engine 45, Truck providing hot chocolate to the town . Many 27 and Medic 14 work together families as they search for the companies collect coats, cloth- to build the last train garden in (Continued on page 11) ing and food during the holi- a Baltimore City Fire Depart- days. Toys for Tots bins are

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 P A G E 6 Chief Jewell Retires

(Continued from page1 ) both volunteer director and the direc- ty in the volunteer service as assistant structor. tor of emergency communications,” chief of the Libertytown Volunteer Mr. Jewell returned to county gov- Mr. Jewell said upon announcing his Fire Department and life membership ernment in 2003 as the first director retirement Tuesday. “Our county is so at both Libertytown and the Junior of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service. In fortunate to have an excellent cadre Fire Co. No. 2. 2006, he was promoted to director of of volunteers in our more than two He will also continue to serve as a the Department of Emergency Com- dozen volunteer fire and rescue com- field instructor for the University of munications. In 2014, he returned to panies. Our dedicated members con- Maryland/Maryland Fire-Rescue Insti- the volunteer services as the chief/ tinue to meet the demands of training tute. director of the newly created Division while responding to an increasing vol- of Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service. ume of emergency incidents. I am “Chip has been an incredible asset grateful for the many years of support through the years, with an extensive from the leadership in each company knowledge of Frederick County’s vol- and the officers of the Frederick Coun- unteer system that is unmatched,” ty Volunteer Fire & Rescue Associa- County Executive Jan Gardner said. tion.” “He will be greatly missed.” Mr. Jewell has been an active volun- “I have truly been honored to serve teer in Frederick County since 1969. the citizens of Frederick County as He will continue to maintain his activi-

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS 2017—2018

Aug, 26, 2017 — Reese & Community Volunteer Fire Company

Dec. 2, 2017 — Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department

Feb. 24, 2018 — Singerly Fire Company

April 14, 2018 — Midland Volunteer Fire Department

June 17, 2018 — Ocean City Convention Starts VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 P A G E 7

P A G E 8

MIEMSS NEWS BRIEFS

By James Brown, grant funds awarded to each jurisdiction will be based on Director of Education Support Services MIEMMS past naloxone administrations, grant funds that are awarded under this program may be used only to purchase new nalox- Guidelines Developed for Bulk Purchasing of Narcan/ one and not to reimburse for naloxone expenses already Naloxone incurred. Information detailing the specifics of the grant pro- gram will be distributed by MIEMSS to jurisdictions in the Through the Opioid Operational Command Center (OOCC), near future. MIEMSS and the Maryland Department of Health Behavioral Health Administration have worked with the Maryland De- Influenza Vaccine partment of General Services (DGS) to allow jurisdictions to purchase naloxone in bulk pricing from a State of Maryland The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) announced the contract. This has the potential for significant cost savings first confirmed cases of seasonal flu for the 2017-2018 influ- across the state. enza season. The virus that causes influenza spreads from This process works with the Minnesota Multistate Con- person to person through coughing or sneezing, as well as tracting Alliance for Pharmacy (MMCAP), a voluntary group through direct contact with infected people and contaminat- purchasing organization for government facilities that pro- ed surfaces or objects. The influenza vaccine is the best way vide healthcare services. A one-page sheet instructing state to protect yourself and your family from becoming ill with and local partners on how to purchase naloxone and other influenza. Yearly vaccinations are important because the medications through the MMCAP/DGS contract has been strains of influenza that circulate change over developed. Please visit: http://www.miemss.org/home/ time. Emergency services personnel should be vaccinated to Portals/0/Docs/EMS_News/Guidelines-Purchasing_Narcan- avoid spreading the disease to others. MMCAP-DGS.pdf?ver=2017-12-14-155026-610. Any state or local partner who is eligible to buy off of a statewide contract National Traffic Incident Response Week is eligible to use the MMCAP/DGS contract. National Traffic Incident Response Week was observed in EMS Naloxone Grant Program November to bring public awareness to the dangers that emergency responders face when responding to a traffic inci- The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration, the Opioid dent. Every minute of every day emergency responders Operational Command Center, and MIEMSS are partnering to provide fi- nancial relief to EMS Operational Pro- grams (EMSOPs) that are currently car- rying the increased burden of providing naloxone without reimbursement from the patient or insurance providers. The reimbursement program will be funded by a $200,000 grant from the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration to MIEMSS. MIEMSS will pass-through these grant funds to EMSOPs based on During the National Traffic Incident Response Week press conference, Deputy Fire the number of previous naloxone ad- Chief Dennis Wood, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, stressed the ministrations where the patient was not need for motorists to move over when coming upon a crash scene as well as sce- transported or refused transport to the ne safety for responders. Members of the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad were in hospital. eMEDS® data will be used to attendance. determine the number of past naloxone administrations within a defined period. across Maryland work tirelessly to help save lives at the sce- EMSOPs that do not procure their own pharmaceuticals ne of traffic crashes. Nationally, every year hundreds of and instead obtain supplies from local hospitals are prohibit- emergency responders are struck and either injured or killed ed from receiving these grant funds. Although the amount of (Continued on page 10)

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 P A G E 9 VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 P A G E 10

Length of Service Award Program & the MD Income Tax Award Subtraction

By Stu Carter 2017. The Maryland State Income Tax Chairman, Incentive Program Comm. Award Modification does not allow If a member has accumulated 25 cred- deductions for members serving active Length of Service Award Program and ited years of service the “taxable year” duty in the Military unless they are in the Maryland Income Tax Award Sub- requirement is waived, however they the Reserves or National Guard. traction Modification, Instructions for must still make 50 or more points in For the taxable year 2017 qualified the individual company Points Coordi- any 3 of the last 10 years. members can deduct $4,500.00 from nator A member MUST have served a mini- their gross State income by using Mar- With the end of 2017 fast approach- mum of 36 full months in order to yland Income Tax form number 502 ing it is time to start preparing for the qualify. For the year 2017 a member under “Other Subtractions From In- reports to be sent to your County must have joined the company as of come”. They will need to send MSFA Points Coordinator. They will provide January 1, 2015. January 1, 2015 thru tax incentive form MSFA-P.2.2 you with their time table for doing so. December 31, 2017 equals 36 months. (Revised 7/17) either with their tax In order for a member to qualify for Points earned are based on your return or separately if filing on line. the yearly deduction they must meet County’s program or if your County Be sure you follow the LOSAP rules the following requirements: does not have a program it is based on as defined by your Count Code. Be Have earned a minimum of 50 points the State program as outlined in the sure to maintain records proving your in ANY 3 of the last 10 years as long as MSFA tax incentive form MSFA-P.2.2 members activities. 1 of those years is in the taxable year. (Revised 7/17). 50 points must be In this case the taxable year is 2017. earned in at least 2 or more catego- The last 10 years includes 2008 thru ries.

MIEMSS News Update

(Continued from page8 ) public will be held on Saturday, Janu- while responding. To bring attention ary 27, 2018. On to the dangers faced by all responders Friday, January 26, to traffic incidents the Maryland De- 2018, at noon any partment of Transportation hosted a law enforcement media event at the northbound I-95 officers, firefighters, rest area near Laurel on November 15, EMS personnel, and 2017. This provided an opportunity to military personnel emphasize the importance of the are welcome to move over law and distracted driving. participate in the Everyone is asked to slow down and Police, Fire, and move over when passing an incident EMS Polar Bear scene to provide a protective buffer for Plunge. The event the traveler, responders, and motorists will take place at traveling behind. Sandy Point State Park, 1100 E College Maryland State Police Fire and EMS Parkway, Annapolis, Polar Bear Plunge Friday, January 26, MD 21409. To During the December meeting of the Statewide Emergency 2018 register yourself Medical Services Advisory Council (SEMSAC) a plaque recogniz- The Maryland State Police Polar Bear or a team, please ing MFRI Director, Steven T. Edwards was presented for his ded- Plunge is the largest Plunge in the go to: icated service as a member of the SEMSAC. Dr. Murray Kalish, world with over 10,000 brave plungers plungemd.com. Chair of SEMSAC, noted the commitment with which the Direc- raising money in support of Special tor served on the Council made a lasting impact to the delivery Olympics Maryland by jumping into of emergency medical services in the State of Maryland. the Chesapeake Bay in the middle of the winter. The Plunge for the general P A G E 11

Chip’s Logbook

(Continued from page5 ) this special detail is the highlight of the wards a fire truck in the dead of night, prefect tree. These sales are an excel- year. Some fire engines are loaded especially in subdivisions without side- lent opportunity for community out- with candy canes and other treats as walks or street lights. reach and fire safety education, espe- children wave down Santa. Though a Responses do not stop on holidays. cially Christmas tree safety. Maryland great public relation project, Santa runs Volunteers often have to leave Christ- State Fire Marshal Brain Garaci reminds pose hidden dangers. mas dinner or miss opening packages us to be sure to distribute Christmas As advocates for safety, it is a very diffi- on Christmas morning to assist a neigh- tree safety tags. Senior company mem- cult dichotomy. Santa riding on top of bor in need. Our brother and sisters in bers that may no longer participate a fire truck is an institution. But, there service are on duty in stations away operationally frequently show up at the have been fatal injuries when Santa fell from their families. The holidays are a “Christmas Tree Lot”, very much a so- off of a fire engine. Attempts to pro- very special time for the fire service cial event. hibit the Santa runs in one county was family. The firehouse can be a magical One of the most popular, and poten- considered almost communist. But, the place during the holidays. The fire truck tially most dangerous, holiday events safety factor is very real. The addition- is often Santa’s sleigh. Remember, the are the annual “Santa Runs”. The fire al concern of small children running four year old that receives the red fire company takes Santa throughout the towards a fire truck at night to get can- engine for Christmas may well be riding community, usually perched on top of dy poses an even higher level of risk. I the bucket in 20 years. an engine or ladder truck. A great pub- even shudder at parades in the daylight Be in the holiday spirit, but always, lic relations event, often garnering do- of summer when candy is thrown out BE SAFE nations. With lights flashing and sirens of vehicles. I am not advocating elimi- Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season, wailing, children peak from their house nating Santa runs, but, I share the safe- to see Santa ride by, waving in the glow ty concerns of someone riding on top CHIP of Circle D lights. For many children, of an engine and children running to-

During Unusual Weather Conditions When Your PPE/Clothing Gets Wet

By Jim Jarboe, Takoma Park VFD January 2018. just wanted to share this with you, in It was terrible, if you had to be out the interest of safety to all, especially How many have you been on call when there, especially fighting a fire. during extreme weather. your PPE, especially your clothing, -- Back in the 70's, my department came Take care and stay warm. socks, gloves, hood – become wet. up with a "Weather Kit" containing the When they are wet they not only cause following: 4 pairs of waterproof gloves, discomfort when worn, but may be inju- 12 pairs of cotton "work type" gloves, rious to one's health in that they can and 8 insulated hooded sweatshirts contribute to burns, colds and frostbite. (various sizes), and 12 pairs of stretch There are departments that carry a sup- type thermal socks. In case you don't ply of extra clothing, especially during have dry replacement clothing, you inclement weather, also some depart- might try a conventional vacuum clean- ments encourage their members to er. Simply attach the vacuum to the have a bag with extra clothing and place exhaust or blower side of the unit. This it on the apparatus. I am sure this came will provide a steady flow of relatively in handy, especially with the extreme warm air. bitter cold spell we went through the I am sure all the departments out there, end of December to the first week of are looking out for their personnel. I

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 12 Legally Speaking

BENEFITS FOR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS - The statute additionally determines WORKER'S COMPENSATION how benefits are calculated for the volunteer. By Roger N. Powell, Esq. Initially, all medical care expense is covered. There is an additional benefit The Maryland State Fireman's Associa- known as temporary total disability tion in fulfilling its mission statement which is paid to the volunteer while he " ... to serve, promote, advocate and is totally disabled from an accident or represent the interest of the volunteer incident until such time as the volun- rescue and emergency medical ser- teer can return to "full duty" and vices of Maryland", has been instru- thereafter, benefits for what is known mental in securing worker's compensa- as permanent partial disability to the There are presumptions in the Mary- tion benefits for volunteers beginning extent that some of the disability is land law regarding heart attacks and in 1991 by statute incorporated into permanent but is partial for instance some cancers entitling a volunteer who the Labor and Employment Article of (by way of example) the workers com- suffers a heart attack or is diagnosed The Annotated Code of Maryland in pensation commission determines the with one of the types of cancers de- title 9 section- 9 234 which same de- volunteer has sustained a 25% disabil- scribed in the statute, that the heart fines when a volunteer is on duty enti- ity to his arm as a result of an injury. attack or disease is as a result of strain tling said volunteer to receive benefits That disability is permanent partial of employment or exposures in em- in the event of an injury while he/she disability ployment to the volunteer that oc- is "on duty" as therein defined and The monetary benefits to which a curred during the years the volunteer further defining the benefits to which volunteer is performed services as a volunteer. the volunteer is entitled. entitled are The Maryland State Fireman's Associ- "On duty" means fighting a fire, per- determined ation through its legislative committee forming a duty of a member of an ad- “Wear your seatbelts. based upon the continues yearly to lobby the legisla- vance life support unit or an ambu- Wear your turnout volunteer's sal- ture to expand the occupational dis- lance, first aid or rescue squad in a gear and positive ary in his regu- ease presumptions so that a volunteer volunteer company, performing a duty pressure air supply. lar employment sustaining such an occupational dis- that the volunteer company assigns to Don't take risks. or, if the volun- ease is presumed to have sustained the member, performing a duty that a Everyone goes teer is not em- the disease in the course of performing by-law or rule of government adopted home!” ployed full time his duties as a volunteer to remove any for the volunteer fire company assigns on the average question or doubt of the volunteer's to the volunteer, going to or perform- weekly wage entitlement of benefits. ing a duty included in the aforegoing, determined by Workers compensation was initially accompanying an accident or fire vic- the legislature on a yearly basis to be enacted by the legislature to remove tim while the victim is being transport- the Maryland average weekly wage. the issue of an injury and compensa- ed in a helicopter and returning to the Additionally, there are benefits to tion from any controversy involving an volunteers home station following the which a volunteer is entitled in the employee who was injured while work- accompaniment of the injured victim. event of occupational disease. Unlike ing thereby providing benefit for his Effectively, anything done or per- an accidental injury which is generally employer.. It was the original "no formed by the volunteer for or on be- a sudden occurrence an occupational fault" statute whereby the law provid- half of his company including going to disease is something that develops ed that an injury arising out ofin the or returning from the activity is cov- over a long period of time before it is course of one's employment was not ered. diagnosed. (Continued on page 14)

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 13 Executive Committee Meets at Kent Island VFD Kent Island, Dec. 2, 2017 -=- On this fine Saturday in early December on Maryland's Eastern Shore fire service leaders from throughout the state assembled at the Kent Island Volunteer Fire Company. The meeting called by President Bilger had a packed agenda as the Association addressed matters of concern to the volunteer fire, rescue & EMS services. President Bilger thanks the Kent Island Vol. FD for its hospitality. Here are some views from the sessions as officials addressed the business of Maryland.’s first responders .

Center Left — Barbara Steiner, a life member and trustee of Church Creek VFC takes notes. A retired school teacher, Mrs. Steiner is an EMT, and a past president of the company. She has also served as ambulance captain; Center Right — Secretary Dole, a PP, is always business handling the Association’s paperwork and administrative business.; Bottom - a standing ovation for Director Edwards.

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET Continued on page 15 P A G E 14 Make Your Plans for the 2018 NVFC Training Summit

By Kimberly Quiros registration with course descrip- partment must be a current mem- Chief of Communications, NVFC tions will be available in February ber of the NVFC. Membership op- 2018. Read more about the 2017 tions and benefits can be found at The National Volunteer Fire Council event here. www.nvfc.org/BeYourBest. (NVFC) is pleased to announce that The registration fee for the Sum- pre-registration is now open for the mit is $75, which includes two days Attendance is limited! Reserve your 2018 NVFC Training Summit. The of training from industry leaders spot today at https:// NVFC’s signature training confer- and most meals. To help more first nvfc.wufoo.com/forms/2018-nvfc- ence will take place June 1-2, 2018, responders attend, a scholarship is training- summit-preregistration/. in Concord, NC. Scholarships are available for select attendees. Learn more about the Summit at available for NVFC Members. Scholarships will be awarded on a www.nvfc.org/summit. Questions? This two-day seminar provides an monthly basis, with deadlines on Contact Rachel Buczynski, Event opportunity to participate in valua- the first of each month from Janu- Planner, at [email protected] or 571 ble classroom training as well as ary- April. The scholarship will reim- -969-7590. exchange ideas and best practices burse up to two nights hotel at the ### with attendees from across the room block rate, plus up to $500.00 country. The conference is open to per person for transportation ex- The National Volunteer Fire Council all volunteer firefighters, EMTs, penses. In addition, the registration (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit department leadership, and other fee will be waived. To apply for a membership association repre- fire department personnel nation- scholarship, complete this form. senting the interests of the volun- wide. Attendees will be able to se- Each individual requesting a schol- teer fire, EMS, and rescue services. lect six out of 12 breakout sessions arship must apply separately; a The NVFC serves as the voice of the to attend, with sessions addressing maximum of two people per de- volunteer in the national arena and critical issues in first responder partment can receive reimburse- provides invaluable tools, re- health and safety, recruitment and ment. To be considered eligible for sources, education, programs, and retention, and fire prevention. Full reimbursement, you or your de- advocacy for first responders across

Legally Speaking

(Continued from page12 ) enumerated above, that volunteer such that could be defended is entitled to all of the benefits of against by alleging that the injury workers compensation I have out- occurred as a result of the employ- lined in the aforegoing. ees own clumsiness or negligence, In recent years counties have the theory being that the employer worked to provide blanket policies receiving the benefit of the employ- covering all of the volunteer sta- ees labors should not be entitled to tions in their jurisdiction either deny a benefit to such employee through a policy of insurance or for medical care and other benefits through self insurance. The im- which prior to the enactment of portant take away here is that the statues could be subject to the em- benefit for the volunteers is here ployers opposing the right to bene- and available although it is the fits. hope of leadership that none of us So, to the extent that a volunteer are ever in a position where we are sustains an injury while either per- obliged to make a claim. forming a task or otherwise re- Wear your seatbelts. Wear your sponding to the fire house or re- turnout gear and positive pressure turning from the fire house to his air supply. Don't take risks. Every- home or any other circumstances one goes home! A safety poster by Jim Jarboee of the Takoma Park VFD VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 15 Kent Island Meeting—Continued 13

Top Left — Deputy Chief Jeffries and Asst. Chief Bennett of the Shaft VFD addressed the Executive Committee; bottom center — Chief McIntosh of the Lisbon VFC and his staff address the committee; bottom left—Eric Smothers; bottom right — 1st VP Blair and 2nd VP Faust listen as President Bilger makes the presentation to Director Edwards.

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 16 Engine that’s been away for a long time returns home

By Mike Dixon, Editor the Sudlersville firehouse locat- Sudlersville Fire Engine No. 1, a 1927 ed in Queen American LaFrance, has occupied prac- Anne's County, tically every corner of the Chesapeake seeking histori- Bay region over the course of 90 years. cal information But now this well-traveled firefighting on the unit. He machine has returned home, Christmas spoke with a arrived early for members of the member Kurt Sudlersville Volunteer Fire Company. Wise who was The sturdy unit made its return on “momentarily October 14, 2017, as MSFA 2nd VP Mike taken aback Faust, Chief Joseph Apple and Asst that the vehicle Chiefs Robert Nicholson and Chris was still in ex- Stant rolled their original engine istence and "Francie" back into station 6. undergoing Here’s the story of how the engine that restoration in has been away from home for 55-years Hampton,” he On March 18, 1939, Fireman Edgar Maule is picture by the returned to the community it protect- recalled. Mr. Baltimore Sun in front of the original fire station. ed for generations. Wise expressed a When the Sudlersville Volunteer Fire great interest, Company was organized in 1927, the saying the members would want it truck hoping to reconnect with the members purchased their first engine, back at the Sudlersville Station if there current owner to discuss having the the 1927 American LaFrance. Once was ever an opportunity. truck available for special events and the Elmire NY factory finished building Restoration continued over the years the company's 100th Anniversary in it, the company shipped it by railroad until the work was practically done. At 1927. to Sudlersville. It was an exciting day that point, Mr. French concluded that The first stop was to speak with Mr. at the town depot when the local “Even a beauti- Wise but he had lost the owners con- freight train pulled in with the ma- ful fire engine, tact information due to a computer chine. This tireless unit outlasted many After 90 years, in a garage issue. The only lead VP Faust had was newer vehicles, but finally the time makes for very from two younger members, William came to relieve it of duty so it was put Sudlersville dull company Davis and Justin Skinner. They were up for sale in 1962. Engine # 1, after restora- looking for the vehicle and had located Lyle Smith, a member of the Old Do- known as Francie, tion. It’s the a picture of the truck from a 2006 car minion Historical Fire Society (ODHFS), was reunited at sharing with show in Hampton, VA but they did not discovered the rusty, timeworn vehicle station 6. people know how to go about locating the in Rising Sun in 1985. He bought the through pa- owner. VP Faust used this information aging truck, hauling it to his home in rades, car and some new facts he found to track Hampton VA, where he began restora- shows, church down Mr. French through a contact he tion work. After Mr. Smith passed events, and even terrorizing the neigh- had with the Antique Automobile Club away in 1991, Michael French, pur- borhood that brings the fire engine to of America (AACA). The AACA held the chased it from Mrs. Smith. While mak- life.” event in 2006 and luckily had a way to ing the arrangements, she showed In September 2017, Mr. French was contact Mr. French. Mike “the factory delivery photo,’ contacted by a Past President of When the two men spoke, Mr. which initiated the reconnection with Sudlersville and the current 2nd VP of French explained that "Francie" was the Sudlersville company. the MSFA Michael Faust about the currently in his garage being semi- Shortly after that, Mr. French called truck. He had been looking for the (Continued on page 17)

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 17

Kent Island Meeting—Continued

(Continued from page 16) tion hit like a ton of bricks that retired. VP Faust then told him that he Lyle Smith and I were entrusted could not officially speak for the fire as temporary caretakers of a very company but he and several members special piece of antique motor would love to have our first engine fire apparatus that must be back and if he ever decided to sell it shared with others,” Mr. French please put Sudlersville at the top of the remarked. list. Mr. French simply asked if we Thus, after 90 years, would take as good of care of her as he Sudlersville # 1, known as Fran- did to which VP Faust replied cie, was reunited at station 6. VP Francie participated in the 2002 Fort Monroe "probably better." VP Faust explained Faust noted that nearly 70 peo- Car Show. that he was a ple were on hand for the grand fourth generation reunion including several members forever friend. I have thoroughly en- “After reading in fire firefighter in that were members when it was in joyed the “deep dive” into the exciting engine magazines Sudlersville and service. Plans now are for a little realm of antique fire engines and espe- “heart-warming stories that his Great more “spiffing up for the station’s cially the wonderful friendships with of how beloved fire Grandfather was 100th anniversary in 2027,” VP Faust the people who also love, care for, and engines made dramatic the town's first notes. It is also expected to lead the reunions years later appreciate them,” Mr. French conclud- Chief and it was Maryland State Firemen's Association with stations . . . ed. decided the time had very important to Convention Parade in 2019 when Mike arrived . . .? him personally Faust becomes the first member of the that the truck find Sudlersville Fire Company to serve as its way home. the president of the MSFA. Mr. French, after “I’ll be eternally grateful for a 25 year Editor’s Note — The Volunteer reading in fire engine magazines “heart “love affair and caretaker calling” with Trumpet thanks Mike French for a detailed history. This article was -warming stories of how beloved fire this 1927 American LaFrance Fire En- taken from Mr. French’s narrative and engines made dramatic reunions years gine from Elmira, New York, # 7445, information provided by MSFA VP later with stations that they proudly that I affectionately named “Francie." Faust. served as the veteran firemen remem- I’ve heard the quote that one antique ber caring for these vehicles,” decided fire engine is too much but three are the time had arrived to now have this not enough. Francie was “just right” rich opportunity and donated the en- and will always be a gine back to Sudlersville. “The realiza-

A grand reunion. Picture (L to R) are three life mem- (L TO R) Chief Joseph Apple, Asst Chief (and head mechanic) bers that were active when Francie was in service Chris Stant, (our hero) Michael French, Past President Michael and they are still active today - Henry Engrem, Dickie Faust, and Asst Chief Robert Nicholson III Walls, and Theodore Kimble

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 18 Kent Island Meeting—Continued from page 15

Top Left & Right — KVFID provided excellent hospitality for the meeting; Center Left—Pres. Bilger makes remarks; center right — Ray Stevens, Chesapeake City FC, along with Pat Deamond (president), Howard Flower, and Charles Steward of the North East Fire Company; above & bottom right — As a mild, late autumn day on the Shore came to a close, the Association concluded its business. Dr. Alcorta is 2018 Leadership Strategic Planning Conference leaving after finishing the MIEMSS report.

2nd VP Blair has been busy traveling around the State, and he submitted this photo of Pres. Bilger speaking at the strategic plan- ning conference.

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET P A G E 19

VOLUNTEER TRUMPET The Volunteer Trumpet A publication of the Maryland State Firemen’s Association www.msfa.org 55 Sunnybrook Drive Elkton, MD 21921

Representing the volunteer fire, rescue and EMS personnel of Maryland

Professionalism and Respect….. By Bruce Secrist

I have always had the utmost respect for the men and women in BLUE but this photo speaks volumes — a simple hand shake is worth a 1000 words. I snapped this picture yesterday on the scene of a serious MVC in Centreville. Trooper 1 was on the scene to pick up a single patient for transport to the University of Mary- land Shock Trauma Cen- ter in Baltimore. This is how the flight paramedic greeted the ground crew. The photo defini- tion of professionalism….

Photo and article by Bruce Secrist