ResponderTHE ALBERTA FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION Spring/Summer 2015
Four-Year Old Huxley Good Leads Fire Response Effort 900 Horsepower Fire Prevention Guess Who Is Going Fishing? Spring/Summer 2015 | 1 2 | The Responder ResponderTHE CONTENTS ALBERTA FIRE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION 5 From The Publisher ■ AFCA AND PROVINCIAL NEWS The Responder is the official publication of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. The magazine is 6 A Career On The Move published twice a year. 8 Alberta Medical First Response The publication is distributed free of charge to Program emergency services personnel throughout Alberta, ■ FIRE FIGHTERS IN ACTION Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Four-Year Old Huxley Good Leads Fire In addition, The Responder is distributed to urban 11 Response Effort and rural municipalities, Members of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and other organizations with 14 Nordegg...The Model Town That Coal an interest in fire and related emergency services. Built...And Where People Have A Carbon Core Publication Mail Agreement: 40065432 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 18 900 Horsepower Fire Prevention
Rose Country Advertising & Public Relations ■ FIRE INDUSTRY NEWS 11904 -113 Avenue 22 Guide To Building A Fire Training Edmonton, Alberta Structure 101 Canada T5G 3C2 24 Two Additional Levels Of NFPA 1021 Phone: 1.780.451.5670 Coming To Lakeland College Email: [email protected] 26 An Alternate Approach To Fire Inspections Publisher/Editor Sustainable Initiatives In The Architectural Brian Stecyk 28 Design Of Alberta Fire Stations Email: [email protected] 30 Certified Clean Protective Gear Is Essential Advertising Sales For Safe Fire Fighting And Cancer Kelley Johnston Prevention Email: [email protected] 34 TRANSCAER® Events Prairie and BC, 2015 Creative Director Margaret Horton ■ HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE Email: [email protected] 35 Guess Who Is Going Fishing? 37 A Bowness Boy With Roots In Kamsack, Saskatchewan Becomes A Big City Hero Copyright 2015, RC and AFCA. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part Cover Photo: Young fire fighter Huxley Good, centre, gets some without the expressed written consent of the help from Evan Stewart and Dan Cote during a flammable-liquid fire practice. Photo Courtesy of Crowsnest Pass Fire Department and publisher or the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. Jennifer Hawkins Photography.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 3 with our Board since 1992 and has served as President for the past six years. He has proactively led our association through some amazing accomplishments. On behalf of all our members, I extend heartfelt thanks for his efforts on our behalf.
The roll-out of the Medical First Responders Program is going well. Although there are still issues to be resolved, significant progress has been made. Read the full article in this issue of the magazine.
As you enjoy the convention, please spend some time with our exhibitors and recognize our sponsors. They are one of the reasons our conventions are always so enjoyable and successful.
Best wishes to all of you for a great Convention.
Bill Purdy Executive Director, AFCA Deputy Chief Wabamun Fire Department Dear Friends,
Welcome to the 2015 Convention Issue of The Responder. I hope you enjoy reading it and that you pass it around to others who may be interested.
The regional meetings we held over the past months were very well attended and we had great participation and sharing of ideas. Thank you. BOOK Special thanks is owed to Peter Krich and the volunteer STORE
Fire Fighter Recruitment and Retention Program he has ONLINE AFCA.AB.CA been leading for the past several years. He showed what Distributors for the Alberta has been doing to both British Columbia and following publishers: Saskatchewan and they loved it and want to use what we IFSTA, Jones & Bartlett, Fire Engineering, Action Training, have done in their provinces. In addition, The Canadian Brady, Mosby, FITS, Emergency Association of Fire Chiefs and the Canadian Fire Marshalls Film Group, Delmar Cengage, and Fire Commissioners both want to make it a national NFPA and more. initiative. Watch the fall issue of The Responder for a complete story about Canada following in our footsteps. Invest In Your Most Important Asset—Your Personnel. Contact Allen Mercier at the Bookstore for all of your training requirements. 1.866.457.9011 [email protected] Our current President Brian Cornforth has decided to step Through a partnership agreement between the AFCA, SAFC, MAFC and down following his move from Lethbridge to Edmonton FCABC, your membership entitles you to receive a 10% Discount off of all where he is now Deputy Fire Chief. All of us have posted prices and 25% of net proceeds from member purchases is returned to your association to support programs they are running. benefitted from Brian’s leadership. He has been involved
4 | The Responder From The Publisher We try to keep on top of contacts and addresses but it is quite a challenge. If the magazine is delivered to the incorrect person, or address just send us an email ([email protected]) and we will gladly make changes. If you want additional copies to distribute just send us an email and let us know how many.
This summer I hope to do a story about a British Columbia fire department. If you think your team would be interested—let me know and I will do my best to visit and interview you and your fellow fire fighters.
Thank you for your continued support.
Brian Stecyk Publisher/Editor
This is now the 5th issue of The Responder. Each issue seems to be receiving an increasingly positive response. Readers are suggesting articles and advertisers want to know how they can be involved. It is good news for your magazine. Keep the calls coming.
Last year I encouraged the Hawkeye Marine Group to become involved with the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association. They began by sponsoring a hole-in-one at the AFCA golf tournament and offered participants a chance to enter a draw for an all-expense paid fishing trip to Bamfield, British Columbia. There were over 990 entries from all the various events they sponsored last summer—the winner of the draw was City of Grande Prairie Fire Chief Dan Lemieux. Congratulations Dan.
They are increasing their involvement with a First Responder Fishing Tournament that will take place over the summer of 2015. There is no entry fee and only first responders from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia are eligible. There will be lots of great prizes. See the Hawkeye advertisement in this issue.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 5 AFCA and Provincial News A Career On The Move By Brian Stecyk
inter-municipal cooperation. Airdrie was undergoing exponential growth and dealing with development, industry and competing interests was a challenge for everyone working in fire and EMS services. A new fire station made things easier but balancing EMS, MVCs, and fire was often difficult. He recalls, “Our goal was to maximize resources while minimizing costs.”
Lethbridge was next when Brian was hired as Fire Chief of a department that combined both fire and EMS services. For 13 years he led a team within a growing department. Like elsewhere he strongly promoted training. New methods of training and courses in enhanced fire fighter Being interviewed by the media was an important part of President Cornforth’s responsibilities. safety and fire fighter survivability were introduced.
In 1984, spurred on by his fire fighter father, Brian He helped develop the Degree Program for fire operations Cornforth decided a career as a volunteer fire fighter through Lakeland College and is particularly proud that in Jasper, Alberta was for him. Two years later when a since 2007, many fire fighters/paramedics from Lethbridge terrible train collision near Jasper claimed the lives of 23 have obtained the degree. “To get the degree, they had to people—several whom he knew—Brian realized he had sacrifice a great deal of time, money and effort but they made the right choice. Now, 31 years later he is Deputy did what they needed to do. It is unfortunate that the Chief with Edmonton Fire and Rescue. program was cancelled at Lakeland but I understand it may be coming back,” says Cornforth. Early in his career, Brian undertook training and became an emergency medical technician (EMT). He was busy, A highlight of his time in Lethbridge was the 100th working at the ski hill, serving as a fire fighter and anniversary celebration or Lethbridge Fire and working with EMS. One of Brian’s strongest beliefs is Emergency Services. In 1912, Fire Services and EMS were training and education. He proudly states, “instead of combined—a marriage that has proudly lasted for over holidays I always went to Lakeland College and took fire 103 years. training courses—it became my vacation destination.” Another highlight was the response to the flood in High Soon it was time to move—away from the mountains of River. “It was a pivotal point in my career as I saw how Jasper to the community of Coaldale east of Lethbridge critical effective planning is. The response was amazing where he served as deputy chief for five years. The with so many people working together. I learned very opportunity to learn and develop as a leader was quickly that when it comes to floods—water goes where provided during my time with the Coaldale and District it wants to—it doesn’t care about who lives in a house Emergency Services. This was a great department that I or who owns a business—it just goes. We have to plan really enjoyed being a team member of. to be able to respond in the best ways we can. That is something I now am involved in with Edmonton Fire and Brian moved on to Airdrie where he learned a great Rescue.” deal about urban growth and the challenges of
6 | The Responder AFCA and Provincial News
The Alberta Fire Chiefs Association has gained from Brian’s wide knowledge, but he says otherwise. He argues that he is the one that has benefitted by the great opportunity to learn, share ideas and challenges with very wise, experienced and talented people on the AFCA Board.
“This whole business is about relationships—whether it is with elected officials at any level, administrations or with other associations—there is so much to be gained by learning and working together. By working together, with politicians we have accomplished a great deal,” he adds. Brian always stresses the importance of building relationships. Here he and Bill Purdy meet with former Minister of Municipal Affairs Brian joined the AFCA board in 1992 when he was Doug Griffiths and Alberta’s Fire Commissioner Trent West. working with the Airdrie Fire Department and he was dramatic improvements in health hazard recognition; elected president in 2009. “I was fortunate to be at the the fact that the government looks to the AFCA for front of the group but others have to get credit for the advice and guidance; and the importance of recognizing many things we did. Without their effort we wouldn’t volunteers. “The successful relationships the Board have done anything at all.” members developed, resulted in this progress,” says Brian. One example he uses is the development of the Volunteer Every fire chief in Alberta should consider getting involved Recruitment Program. “Without the untiring effort of with the AFCA Board according to Brian. “It is a great Peter Krich and Bill Purdy and the grant from the Fire opportunity to learn and it’s important to be part of the Commissioner’s Office, it never would have happened. organization. It is easy to be an armchair quarterback, Now it is underway and will become a national but it is a different thing to help develop real solutions. recruitment program with the Canadian Fire Chiefs The Board deals with a diverse set of issues—it is amazing Association. Peter and Bill deserve exceptional thanks for how the wisdom of the group can resolve the issues. their efforts.” The people on the board aren’t just fire fighters—they Other achievements Brian recalls include: WCB come from every walk of life and are willing to share their recognition of cancer and post-traumatic stress, the wisdom and expertise.”
Brian currently is Deputy Chief, Emergency Management This whole business is and Planning with Edmonton Fire and Rescue. He will put “ about relationships— all his relationship building skills to work to ensure that regardless of which departments or agencies are involved whether it is with elected they will work together with the community to respond officials at any level, to any large scale events.
administrations or with Retirement from the AFCA Board will mean more free
other associations—there time. “I’ll now be able to go fishing more often and I intend to tour the country on my motorcycle. I hope is so much to be gained“ to even travel internationally to meet some of the fire by learning and working departments that I have made contact with over the years. But, I will still be on-call to work with the AFCA if together. they need me,” concludes Brian.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 7 AFCA and Provincial News Alberta Medical First Response Program By Alberta Health Services
Fire service organizations in Alberta have a long contribute a vital role in promoting public safety and history of partnership with Emergency Medical Services providing care to patients in the pre-hospital setting. The (EMS), providing timely and valuable aid to members Alberta MFR Program establishes minimum standards for of the public when emergencies happen. In many of MFR, provides a framework of supports and promotes these situations, responders are providing medical care continued partnership between MFR agencies and EMS to patients prior to the arrival of EMS or have been services. called to provide additional assistance at an emergency scene. There are hundreds of agencies in Alberta already The MFR Program focuses on the following areas to engaged in this activity but often without access to support delivery of patient care by MFR groups: valuable resources such as medical oversight, patient care guidelines, patient care documentation or quality • Medical oversight with an assigned Medical Director assurance processes. • Comprehensive patient care guidelines for different To support the agencies and responders providing this levels of service care, Alberta Health Services (AHS) launched the Alberta • Patient care documentation resources and a quality Medical First Response (MFR) Program in April 2015. assurance process Development of the MFR Program was a collaborative effort involving Alberta Health and many other provincial • Training supports for MFR-specific skill development and local stakeholders. It is recognized that fire services • Online enrollment, definition of response plans and on- and other community-based response organizations, going communication
Turner Valley school bus roll over. 8 | The Responder AFCA and Provincial News
community. Each MFR agency, along with their local administration (municipal officials and councils) defines these parameters.
The MFR Program is flexible in support of various levels of service from Standard First Aid (SFA) to Advanced Care Paramedic. The program has defined the minimum level of training for a medical first responder to be SFA certification with Health Care Provider Cardio- Pulmonary Resuscitation (HCP CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The MFR agency and their administration may choose to provide a level of service exceeding SFA at their discretion but it is not required in order to participate. The MFR Program has worked with Alberta Health and the Alberta College of Paramedics The Alberta MFR website at www.AlbertaMFR.ca is a hub to clearly define which skills are restricted to registered for agency enrollment, learning about upcoming MFR practitioners (EMR, EMT, EMT-P) and which are not. information sessions and accessing resources. Enrollment This has resulted in the addition of several basic clinical begins when a username and password credentials are skills that may be safely performed by non-registered issued to begin collection of contact information and responders (i.e. SFA), provided they are appropriately agency details. The user-friendly enrollment process trained and equipped. Part of the medical oversight continues with guidance from one of the MFR team model includes Medical Control Protocols that are members when needed. regularly revised. They are extensive and provide clear direction for responders who are providing patient care One of the primary benefits of MFR enrollment is the prior to EMS arrival. ability for agencies to define and readily review the medical event types they respond to. Agencies select An MFR-focused Patient Care Report (PCR) has been event types, identify coverage areas and other local developed and trialed with several MFR agencies from factors that impact response. These details are then linked to the respective Dispatch Centres for implementation. The decisions about level of service, call volume and the types of events responded to remain with the
One of the primary benefits of
“MFR enrollment is the ability for agencies to define and readily“ review the medical event types they respond to.
Medical response team works with fire fighters on the scene of a collision.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 9 AFCA and Provincial News
all regions of the province providing valuable feedback. The MFR PCR is available for use and submission online or in hard-copy paper format. The MFR Program is also preparing to support MFR-specific skill development An MFR-focused Patient through the use of online modules and a train-the-trainer network for in-person learning opportunities. “Care Report (PCR) has been The MFR Program continues to collaborate with
developed and trialed with stakeholders including the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association.
several MFR agencies from MFR information sharing was recently featured at many of the AFCA regional spring meetings throughout the all regions of the province“ province and AHS will participate in the AFCA 2015 providing valuable Convention in Red Deer including an address to the Convention delegates on May 27th. AHS proudly supports feedback. agencies and responders as a partnership with EMS for the benefit of all Albertans. Contact the Alberta MFR Program at [email protected] or call toll free 1-866-786-1140. The Alberta MFR portal is located at www.AlbertaMFR.ca.
Motor vehicle collision, Fairmont Drive Dr. and Flint Rd., SE Calgary. 10 | The Responder Fire Fighters in Action Four-Year Old Huxley Good Leads Fire Response Effort By Fire Fighter Matt Peterson
Fire fighter Evan Stewart, left, reviews ladder safety with Huxley Good before performing a rescue.
Crowsnest Pass Fire and Rescue was called to a small Those close to the boy know he has dreamed of being flammable-liquid fire on March 24 at 11:18 a.m. a fire fighter all his life, but sadly, his epilepsy may keep him from his young life’s calling. Taking the lead on this call was Huxley Good, who, at four years old, may be the youngest fire fighter to pack “They put out fires and I like to put out fires, too,” up and rush to an emergency scene. Huxley said after the fire was out and he was left with the paperwork. When asked how long he had wanted to Donning his own protective clothing, helmet and be a fire fighter, Huxley did not hesitate: “Like forever.” breathing apparatus, Huxley rushed to Engine 23 and was driven around the block to the staged fire. “I think being able to rescue people, being a helper, is something he’s always been interested in,” said his mom, He and his crew attacked the fire with foam and quickly Kat. “He’s been pretty stuck on the whole fire fighting had it under control. thing.” Huxley was picked up at his home in Hillcrest in Engine 23 and taken to the Blairmore station, where the It may have been another practice for the fire awestruck boy met several fire fighters and participated department, but for Huxley it was a dream come true. in a ladder rescue (where he saved his very own stuffed
Spring/Summer 2015 | 11 Fire Fighters in Action
Huxley’s practice session was the culmination of several months of work and planning, said Fire Chief Jamie Wilkinson.
He first became aware of Huxley and his story during a Brighter Futures tour of the firehall in January.
When Jamie found out that Huxley had always dreamed of being a firefighter but is struggling with epilepsy, he knew they needed to do something. “This little fella wants to be a fire fighter more than anything,” said The Chief will stay in touch with his crew with this radio. Jamie, adding that Kat and Teri Harrison, with Brighter Futures, started thinking of how they could help Huxley Dalmatian donated by Captain Mike Taje), learned realize his dream. to use the Jaws of Life and extinguished a flammable- liquid fire. Jamie knew Huxley’s condition would create some big hurdles. “It is going to be very difficult,” he said. “I have The whole experience left Huxley nearly speechless as not heard of anyone yet with epilepsy being on a fire he was coached by his new teammates through the department.” difficult tasks. Jamie said he was very proud of how involved his team “I have never seen him so quiet,” said Kat. became in the cause — from Capt. Art Hoogstraten and his wife, Sharon, searching for the proper kid’s turnout Huxley was diagnosed with epilepsy at two years old but gear, to fire fighters Evan Stewart and Josh Arnaly started having seizures when he was one. crafting the kid-size air tank and face mask. Huxley was also given an old fire helmet signed by members of the The seizures vary in size and frequency and, his mom department. noted, all they can do is wait and see if he grows out of it. “The involvement from the whole firehall has just
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been amazing,” Jamie said. “I want to thank everyone involved.” And Kat couldn’t agree more.
“We are amazed and thankful our local fire fighters would do this for him.”
“It was truly a community event,” Teri says. Jennifer Hawkins Photography donated a session and was on hand to document the day for Huxley’s family, while Black Rock Pizza supplied a complimentary lunch for
We are amazed everyone.
“and thankful our The day was organized by Crowsnest Pass Fire and local fire fighters“ Rescue with the help of Brighter Futures.
would do this When asked what his favourite part of the day was, for him. Huxley simply listed everything he had done with his new fire team.
“I liked being a fire fighter,” he said. When you are the Chief you have to be out front!
Spring/Summer 2015 | 13 Fire Fighters in Action
Nordegg...The Model Town That Coal Built...And Where People Have A Carbon Core
By Lynn Brown
Lower Boarding house, June 13, 1949, about 8:00 A.M. Photo courtesy of J. A. France Collection.
You’d never guess looking at the architecturally Knowing nothing of the coal industry didn’t restrain crisp, modern and well-equipped Nordegg Emergency him. He partnered with D. B. Dowling of the Geological Services Building that it was built on a foundation Survey of Canada to stake claims in the Brazeau area. of historical stories that could have come straight The Brazeau Colleries opened in 1911. Nordegg out of a ‘how-the-west-was-won’ novel. To this day persuaded the North West Railway to build a rail line to ex-Nordegggers, returned Nordeggers and new the town and to purchase coal to fuel their trains. The Nordeggers know that they live in more than a place. colleries eventually produced 9.6 million tonnes of coal “It’s a mentality—a unique identity,” says author Anne during its 1914 to 1955 lifetime. Belliveau. With the coal mine under construction, attention turned Wanting to get away from the political and economic to housing for mineworkers and their families. In this, turmoil in Europe a young German born, Martin Martin Nordegg excelled. His vision combined with a Nordegg headed for Canada in 1906 seeking the love of humanity drove him to build a town that bore promises offered by a growing land. When he headed no resemblance to the crude disreputable mining towns west he was exactly what was needed by the new of the day. Nordegg was a carefully planned model of a Province of Alberta. Martin had a unique ability to European ‘garden city’ where the streets were designed build relationships and he secured investment capital, in the form of half wagon wheels. Modern, naturally persuaded politicians and recognized opportunities that painted houses contributed to the higher standard of led to the development of new industrial town that living and the workers sense of community. Who could was unique for the time. not be uplifted on streets named Elizabeth, Lily and
14 | The Responder Fire Fighters in Action
Marthe? The benefit to the company was a workforce that wasn’t looking for greener pastures, felt pride in their work and community and developed a mining operation that ran both efficiently and profitably.
The new residents enjoyed the bounty the company provided. The company-owned town provided far superior services to other communities where people had to build their own homes and develop their own services with their own resources. Early buildings were a company store (The Bighorn Trading Company), a boarding house and a FIRE HALL!
Martin Nordegg—a true entrepreneur and adventurer. Photo courtesy of JAHSENA archives.
occurred when the Bighorn Trading Company store and bakery burned to the ground. “
She describes how this was memorable as a train crewman seeing the fire at the trading company hung a metal poker used to stoke the boilers onto the Fire which destroyed all the briquette plant buildings at the mine site alarm bell and left it there for 20 solid minutes. The shut the operation down for over a year. Photo courtesy of volunteers jumped to the pumps with that wake up Gino Poscente. and were able to prevent the fire from spreading to the Nordegg’s first fire hall was little more than a tiny post office and drug store. hut. Fire hydrants lined the streets and water from underground springs was plentiful. A hand pumper and There were two main disasters in Nordegg’s history. a hose cart were the ‘progressive’ equipment of the The first was an explosion at Brazeau Collieries, October day. The hose cart intended to be horse-drawn actually 31, 1941 at 9:10 a.m. Methane gas ignited and a huge used manpower. It took 10 men to pull the cart to fire explosion ripped through a mineshaft killing 29 men. locations—often over brush and rocky terrain. As can There was no fire fighting to do as this fire caused by be imagined, the fire was usually out of control by the methane gas igniting in the tunnels left total death time the crew arrived. and destruction behind. Volunteers rushed to the site but recovering bodies was all that was left to do. This There was no conscription but by the 1920s everyman was a horrific event for the community. Tight knit, was a fireman. Of course, when the whistle blew to interdependent and with a strong sense of community, signal fire, death or some other major event the whole this was a devastating loss for everyone. town turned out to help in any way they could. The second disaster was the 1950 fire that demolished Anne Belliveau, long-time resident of Nordegg, and the briquette plant. It was constructed to better utilize author of “Small Moments in Time...The Story of the type of coal being mined and was an efficient way Alberta’s Big West Country” describes a number of fire for fueling trains. Townspeople sighed with relief at crises that affected the community. “As well as the fire the news that the plant was to be rebuilt. Their relief which destroyed the school in 1945, an earlier fire had was short lived. Within four years, the plant shut down
Spring/Summer 2015 | 15 Fire Fighters in Action
for good. The company was overextended financially because of rebuilding and their product had powerful new competition - diesel!
“But if fire and explosion could not kill Nordegg modern technology did. When railways switched from coal to diesel the need for coal was gone.” On June 14th, 1955, the mine closed for good and long-term residents, still unable to sell their houses sadly moved away.” (A.B. Chenoweth)
Following several years of inactivity in the early 60s, the townsite became a minimum-security prison. Duplexes were built for the warden and prison guards. As the prisoners could move freely around town fire ‘chief’, Bighorn Trading Company Store & Bakery burning. This is the fire George Weber trained them in fire fighting skills; mainly where the trainman hung the poker on the locomotive bell control, putting out grass fires. to keep it ringing. Then he went down the street to watch the fire. The bell rang for 20 minutest. Photo courtesy of Maggie d’Amico Morris. When the prison closed some of the staff stayed, continuing to live in the houses built for them. number of volunteer fire fighters from wives, forestry Resident Ray Borley owned one of the duplex homes. staff, quarry workers, hotel staff, highway workers and He describes one of his favourite volunteer experiences local residents. Ray Borley describes how ‘becoming top in the 1980s where he headed out to a fire at the notch brought pride in the job and kept people keen.’ David Thompson Resort. The rickety old 1964 fire truck reached a top speed of 55 mph on the flat prairies. This Meanwhile an uplifting note to the Nordegg exodus fire meant driving in mountains. “It moved so slowly was that the departing residents formed a Nordegg cars were honking and passing in annoyance.” He Recreation Association determined to stay in touch and figures, “they thought at that speed the fire truck was keep the bond of their shared roots going. Reunions acting like it was in a parade.” Another time while he were held in towns around the province and then in the was off to a fire he smelled smoke and discovered a fire early 1970s a campground was cooperatively purchased under the dash! on the site of the town’s air strip and past employees and their families were offered sites to purchase. These Communications in those days were primitive even in campsites became theirs to keep, enjoy and pass on the 80s. A siren installed on the wall of the fire hall and to their heirs. It is a vibrant well-used camping area to fire phones working on the party-line principal called this day. Nordegg is being revitalized with numerous fire fighters into action. Ray’s wife Peggy manned the subdivisions and lots being sold. Some call the phones going through the ‘call list’ and all would meet community the Canmore of central Alberta. People come at the Fire Hall or the fire. as tourists for a visit and many stay to build recreational homes. With all the new residents there is a big need for In 80s under Chief Don Livingston fundraising made a volunteer fire department. equipment purchases possible. Volunteer fire fighters went to Red Deer for training and came away feeling The Nordegg Historical Society works relentlessly to proud and capable. Working for your community as preserve the town heritage and rich historical character a team with all your focus on protecting your town through restoration and reconstruction. In 2002 Nordegg is both motivating and bonding. 1996 saw a large was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.
16 | The Responder Fire Fighters in Action
Eastbush fire 1919, as seen from the mine-site. No roads. Only way out was by rail. Photo courtesy of Anne Belliveau Collection.
Emergency fire response involves a division of ready waiting for a call to help. Nordegg has come a responsibilities among foresters fighting forest fires, fire long way since the manpowered hand pump and hose fighters fighting local fires and oil companies having cart. their own response teams. Although when any fire crisis It is still evident that the co-operation and occurs that needs more manpower it’s time to throw out interdependence that comes with isolation is alive and the rule book and turn to the ‘everyman is a fireman’ well in Big West Country. rule.
Learn more about Nordegg: “Small Moments in In l999 with the work-together-for-the-greater-good Time...The Story of Alberta’s Big West Country”, Anne spirit and the interdependence caused by isolation, Belliveau ([email protected] $20.00); Nordegg needed protective services beyond its means. “Martin Nordegg The Uncommon Immigrant” Joining with Rocky Mountain House, Leslieville, Condor W. John Koch. and Caroline it became one of the five fire stations making up Clearwater County Emergency Services. Working together five new, fully-equipped stations offer Fire Suppression, Vehicle Extrication, First Medical Response, Water Rescue, Ice Rescue and Public Education for the whole of Clearwater County.
All resources were in evidence at the May 2013 fire in the Nordegg/Lodgepole area. One hundred fire fighters and 12 helicopters fought the fire around the clock. Working through the night fire fighters were starting to look to the sky for help. Chance of rain: 40 per cent. Emergency evacuation of 200 people was required but fortunately no homes were damaged.
Early Nordeggers would view with wonder two “Jaws of This photo was the 2013 forest fire, which came very close to Life” systems, six pumper trucks, five water trucks, and a wiping out the whole mine and town. It was stopped just at telephone/radio paging and communication system. At the western edge, and the only thing that was burned was one mine-car, (used for hauling coal to the surface, and taking it to the the same time, to this day the volunteers are still at the processing plant).
Spring/Summer 2015 | 17 Fire Fighters in Action 900 Horsepower Fire Prevention By Brian Stecyk
Getting people’s attention isn’t easy but fire we build something to race?’ and our Rapid Response fighters with the Camrose Fire Department have found drag racer was born.” the way. The group got hold of a 1948 International pickup and For years the Camrose Fire Department was called out in 2007 the work started. Interestingly the truck was to do fire suppression for the Camrose 100 Footer. The originally sold to a farmer from Camrose. The truck 100 Footer is an organized street race, where vehicles is a model KB-1. After it came off the farm it was a are clocked for the speed they can reach in 100 feet. competition pulling truck. At Stormy’s Street Rods they Apparently the short distance ensures no one exceeds built us a complete race chassis and mounted the engine the speed limit on the public roadway. in the rear. Kids and adults of all ages come to admire the work. “We were always there,” says fire fighter and heavy duty mechanic, Allan Majeski. “One person said, “why can’t About eight to 10 fire fighters joined the team. “We
18 | The Responder Fire Fighters in Action
This is what the original International KB-1 looked like prior it being converted to a pulling truck and then a dragster.
Thousands of volunteer hours went into the remodelling.
Primed and ready for paint.
didn’t have any money so we pounded the pavement
One person said, “why can’t to get sponsorship from local businesses. We had raffles and other fundraising events and raised approximately “we build something to race?’“ $50,000 to build the dream machine. Now, we raise about $6,000 annually to keep it going. Some sponsors and our Rapid Response drag are with us every year while others every second year. racer was born. Without their help, it never would have happened. We haven’t used any tax dollars and all our labour is donated time,” Majeski proudly states. “Whatever we do or wherever we go it’s all volunteer—we do it on our own time.”
It took three years and a lot of work and help. Key was the contribution of Stormy’s Street Rods of New Norway. They extended the chassis and remodelled the rear fenders. When all the work was done it was ready to be painted by Auto Shoppe in Camrose and then by Levi McCarroll of Paint by Levi for the beautiful artwork and finish. The logo on the door is 24-carat gold leaf—just as was done in the old days.
By 2010 it was ready to show off. “Our first motivation was to build something that would attract people to talk to us about fire prevention. It is a crowd magnet. Kids of The Rapid Response unit is a crowd favourite. all ages come to admire the work. While they are talking
Spring/Summer 2015 | 19 FiFirere IFighndutersstry inNews Action
to use we inform them about fire prevention and usually hand out a lot of goodies—balloons, brochures, posters, etc. People love it as a backdrop for a photo of family and friends.”
The first event the Rapid Response Unit attended was the Camrose 100 Footer but since that day it has travelled throughout Alberta and raced at many events. The Rapid Response Unit is in such high demand it is racing or on display every weekend from May to mid-September. Because of demand, there are three race drivers on standby: Keith Hafso; Laurie Adamson; and Ken Storms.
“It is rare for us to attend and event without winning a trophy or other prize,” adds Majeski. The lounge area in the Camrose Fire Station is adorned with trophies and photographs. The truck won the World of Wheels trophy in 2014 for being the Best Engineered and Best in Competition. We received international recognition when the truck was featured in the 2012 edition of the Snap-on Tools calendar—the only Canadian vehicle featured.”
Some of the events and races the Rapid Response Unit has participated in include: Hanna 1/8 mile; Stettler 1/8 mile; Rocky Mountain Nationals 1/4 mile; Big Valley Jamboree Parade; Lloydminster Car Show; 1st annual
The truck now features an alcohol fueled 900 horsepower rear Calgary Fire Department Car Show; and Show and Shines mount engine. all over Alberta.
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20 | The Responder Fire Fighters in Action
Our first motivation was “ to build something that would attract people
to talk to us about fire
prevention. It is a crowd magnet. Kids of all“ ages come to admire the work.
This is the team that maintains and shows Rapid Response.
The truck has been remodelled again to increase its Voice & Data | Dispatch Systems | 2-Way Radio | ROIP | Consulting speed and performance. It now boasts a 548 cubic inch big block Chevy rear mount engine. Now the 900 horsepower alcohol-fueled First Responder is the fastest ‘corn-binder’ in the world.
How fast is it? It is usually in the mid-range competitive class. It covers a quarter mile in 9.73 seconds and reaches 132 miles per hour.
Would you like to see it? You might catch it racing the RCMP Camaro or the City of Edmonton 2008 Challenger at Castrol Raceway next to the Edmonton International Airport. You could also be fortunate to see it in one of your local events.
If you are interested—call the Camrose Fire Department Your single source, electronic and leave a message for Allan. He’ll get back to you and technology solutions partner do what he can to accommodate your request.
JACAL TECHNOLOGIES INC. 780-271-4062 14 CASCADE CRESCENT [email protected] SHERWOOD PARK, AB jacaltechnologies.ca T8H-2S7
Spring/Summer 2015 | 21 Fire Industry News Guide To Building A Fire Training Structure 101 By Mike Bailey, Emt-P, Assistant Fire Chief, Owner Fire Training Solutions
Fire service training begins with the service level could sponsor programs can all be part of a well thought your community or municipality has adopted which can out business plan. Part of the cost benefit analysis should vary from city to city or region to region. One of the look at your current training costs and possible cost savings most difficult tasks is to provide personnel with realistic like travel, fuel, overtime pay, hotel, per diems etc. training to prepare them for real life situations. Today the fire fighter’s responsibility has increased. As a result, Some considerations should look at the big picture of the the training of these fire fighters has become extremely training facility other than just the live fire component. complex. Food or rest area, restrooms, communications, medical or rehab area, classrooms, video, computers, Internet, PPE, Most fire service leaders are continually looking at effective SCBA, driver training area, flammable liquid props, haz- or more efficient ways to stretch their budget dollars mat decon, technical rescue, vehicle ex, confined space and building their own training structure only makes and high angle are just a few considerations. Looking at sense when the service level demands continue and the the infrastructure, water distribution, water containment, training and maintenance of that service level continue site maintenance, environmental cleanup, parking, security, to increase in cost. Keeping personnel close to home, direction of prevailing winds can all be part of planning. reducing overtime, and utilizing a local training facility for Your city planners should be involved so that no conflicts maintenance training while on duty all have benefits that arise with your communities’ master plan. Site preparation go beyond the service level. should involve a civil engineer or the municipal staff engineer; not recognizing hidden subsurface conditions Needs Analysis could pose to be a costly mistake. Policy and procedures With changing technologies in fire suppression and fire to support user guidelines for the facility are a must. All prevention, today’s fire fighters must be knowledgeable instructors should receive formal instruction on all aspects and well trained. Where does this start and does it of the facility especially with the live fire component ever end? Building a fire training facility enhances the communities well being through better fire protection and Building Considerations fire prevention. Regardless of the type of training building you have selected, the training structure, whether a single story or Planning, designing and budgeting are all key components multi-story structure, should be designed by a professional of building a fire training structure. Current and future and where necessary engineered to meet building code training needs should be considered. Possible partnerships requirements to meet vertical loads, lateral loads and can help alleviate some of the financial burden. Alternative foundation requirements. With the cost effectiveness of training structures, conventional construction, concrete, utilizing a containerized structure one should investigate wood steel clad, shipping containers, all are considerations only reputable companies that specialize in these. As a when constructing a facility. When the planning begins supplier I have seen very poorly constructed facilities by well one should look at a cost benefit analysis to help meaning companies that don’t really take fire training into determine if the training facility is feasible or not. consideration. These structures require further construction just to conduct fire training safely and cost the municipality Cost savings opportunities like partnerships, user fees, further costs. advertising, provincial or regional training agencies that
22 | The Responder Fire Industry News
Live fire training facilities should be designed with local manpower limited budgets, conducting fire training close to training objectives; some of these include fire behaviour, their service area in case of emergencies, utilizing their own fire extension, rescue, ventilation, forcible entry, ladder PPE and apparatus the fire fighters can become familiar with work, incident command and RIT. their own equipment.
Burn rooms should have thermal protection to protect Regionalizing a mobile training unit could help cut training from thermal shock from heating and cooling, doors and costs, increase training time and creating a better fire windows should be built from quality steel for durability protection area. and with all safety considerations for ease of use and maintenance. Mobile training units typically seen are live fire, flashover, ventilation, vehicle/dumpster, SCBA familiarization, confined Gas-fired fire training facilities provide a safe and space and with technological breakthrough, realistic driver environmentally clean method of conducting live fire training and incident command scenarios exist to provide the eliminating Class A fuels and clean up. These systems most effective training to date. provide consistent and repeated training fires but require a qualified operator and sometimes the costs for these These are just some of the critical components of developing props make them out of reach for many. All gas fired a fire training structure. When the decision comes down props should be installed by a qualified company following to what you want to build take a look around at what has standards for manufacturing; testing and the systems been done, learn from others mistakes, quality is important, should be certified by a third party testing laboratory to safety, function, ability to expand all things that should not ensure compliance with all safety standards. be overlooked.
Exterior Gas-Fired Props When designing a training ground make sure to include props that follow your municipalities service level or response type, these include tanks, flanges, propane trees, vehicle fires, dumpster fires, aircraft fires, rail fires, gas meter fires, lpg fires etc. If flammable liquids or gas- fired props are used the flow should be controlled by a quick shut off valve in case of an emergency shutdown is required.
If space is available and service level exists technical rescue areas would benefit the firefighters with cost effective realistic training. USAR/ building collapse, trench rescue, confined space, haz-mat containment and decon, high angle rescue should all be conducted with safety in mind and all life safety components designed and installed by a certified engineered.
For those that venture outside the traditional fire fighter training the options are endless. Consider a mobile training unit which can benefit fire fighters who typically cannot travel for training and can cover a large geographical area.
This benefit would be for outlying areas with limited
Spring/Summer 2015 | 23 Fire Industry News
Two Additional Levels Of NFPA 1021 Coming To Lakeland College By Brian Stecyk
The second fire fighter training platoon (P2) arrived April 20 at Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre in Vermilion to start their 12 weeks of intensive training. Students hail from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia. The next platoon starts on July 13.
24 | The Responder Fire Industry News
More advanced leadership training for fire officers The first two levels of NFPA 1021 Fire Officer prepare will be available at Lakeland College Emergency Training people for supervisory and managerial roles. In levels Centre this year. three and four, students learn more about administrative duties such as budgeting, long-range planning, risk Thanks to collaboration between Lakeland College and management and human resources. the Ontario Fire College, levels three and four of NFPA 1021 Fire Officer will be offered in Vermilion at the Level three will be offered Aug. 24 to Sept. 4 followed Emergency Training Centre. by level four from Nov. 16-27, 2015. Tuition is $995 per level. IFSAC and ProBoard certification will be “We’ve successfully offered levels one and two for many administered by the Office of the Fire Marshal and years. The past few years we’ve had requests from many Emergency Management of Ontario. of our clients for the next two levels. Fortunately we’ve been able to work with Ontario Fire College to bring this For more details or to register phone 1-800-661-6490, program to the Emergency Training Centre so people in ext. 8633 or visit www.lc-etc.ca the Prairies can take levels three and four in Alberta,” says Mariette Sargeant, course development and accreditation coordinator at the Emergency Training Centre.
We’ve successfully “offered levels one and
two for many years. The
past few years we’ve had requests from many “ of our clients for the next two levels.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 25 Fire Industry News
An Alternate Approach To Fire Inspections By Bob Turley
Most fire service leaders agree that fire prevention is far cheaper in all aspects than fire suppression. The main goals of fire inspections are to:
• identify deficiencies and take corrective action
• change human behavior through knowledge transfer and assumption of responsibility
A lot of resources are required for local governments to provide fire inspections. A study entitled “The Non- Random Nature of Fire Safety Inspection Compliance, A Platform for Predicting Fire Risk” conducted by Surrey Fire Chief Len Garis and Dr. Joseph Clare of the University of the Fraser Valley in 2013 found that the majority of public buildings inspected are compliant. Over 70 percent of the properties identified in their study were fully compliant or had very minor deficiencies. building owner. The Garis/Clare Report states the main reasons for failing to comply are that owner/occupants Inspection priorities are normally determined by the are unaware of the problem and lack knowledge about historical or foreseeable outcome of a significant fire fire and life safety deficiencies or their responsibility to event. Often the policy of the municipality identifies correct them. Because responsibility to comply with the inspection priorities in the following order; Group fire code rests with the building owner, additional fire B, C, A, F, E and D. Group D and E occupancies are prevention education will result in higher awareness and considered low risk as are some buildings classified as code compliance. A2, C and F1. These occupancies make up the largest portion of the inspections performed by municipalities. Fire Prevention Opportunity Most jurisdictions are looking for cost effective ways The frequency of inspection is normally determined to deliver fire prevention and inspection programs. In by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Through many cases company level fire inspections are performed policy, many jurisdictions have a longer time interval by fire fighters while fire code compliance inspections between inspections for D & E occupancies than the are performed by fire prevention specialists. In some other classifications because of the low hazard and low cases, particularly in communities served by volunteer frequency of fires. fire departments, inspections are not performed or are contracted out to third parties who are paid by the local The National Fire Code of Canada and provincial fire government. codes place the responsibility for compliance on the
26 | The Responder Fire Industry News
An alternative is to provide a system of self-assessment • a system for evaluation of the self-inspections targeted to businesses that are statistically at a lower risk • buy-in incentives for building owners/occupants for fire. Those are primarily Group D and E mercantile and business and personal service facilities. Some low • an educational component for the self-inspection hazard – low occupant load Group “A” Division 2, Group program “C” and Group “F” Division 1 occupancies may also be suitable for self-assessment. • an audit process • penalties for inaccurate reporting Successful fire prevention self-assessment programs allow low risk businesses with a demonstrated A system of self-assessment that incorporates evaluation commitment to, and history of, fire safety to perform of the occupancy, historical review of compliance and assessments on their own, correct deficiencies and an educational component provides a viable method to report their compliance status to the AHJ. improve fire safety in the community and encourages building owners and managers to take more There has been a lot of research done on self-inspection responsibility for their properties. or self-assessment programs and several reports from credible agencies such as FEMA and various Fire About the Author: Bob Turley is Program Director and Commissioners and Fire Marshal offices legitimize the a founding partner of FireWise Consulting Ltd. He is a concept of self-assessments by building owners. former Deputy Fire Commissioner for the Province of BC. Bob can be reached at Several legal opinions from British Columbia identified [email protected] that local governments should be charging for fire prevention inspections. One of the opinions suggested that programs should be referred to as self-assessment rather than self-inspection. They further suggested that self-assessment does not replace the fire inspection performed by the fire department but based on performance, allows an increased time interval between fire inspections. The BC Office of the Fire Commissioner says “Self-inspections could reduce the frequency of local government inspections, depending on the occupancy fire risk and quality of the self-inspection, from annual to every two, three or possibly four years.”
Considerations when developing a self-inspection program should include:
• necessary changes to bylaws
• policies of Council
• a qualifying standard to allow fire prevention self- inspection
• an identification process for occupancy eligibility
• data management system
Spring/Summer 2015 | 27 Fire Industry News Sustainable Initiatives In The Architectural Design Of Alberta Fire Stations
By Sheila P. Morrison, Senior Communications Photos courtesy of Curtis Comeau. Designer, Architecture | Tkalcic Bengert
In addition to meeting program requirements including enviro-gardens, is a baseline approach to the the design for fire stations takes into account the design. Another opportunity for sustainable architecture principles of sustainability. There are seven main for the site development is responsible water retention, categories according to Leadership in Energy and using bioswales that collect surface water from adjacent Environmental Design (LEED). These are Sustainable hard surfaces and transfer it to the surrounding Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, landscape to naturally irrigate existing trees and plants. Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Further, high-albedo site paving materials are used for Innovation and Design Process and Regional Priority. more light reflection and less heat absorption. In collaboration with the owner, the engineering team and the contractor, the architect will seek to Building form, orientation and thermal mass are achieve not only ecological but also aesthetic harmony optimized for solar gains, natural ventilation and cooling, between a structure and its surrounding natural and and daylighting. The necessary artificial lighting and built environment. This is accomplished by referencing mechanical ventilation requirements can then be selected best practices to innovation for sustainable design and to take advantage of this natural provisioning. defining the methodology to deliver the design in a cost effective manner. Consideration of the comfort of the station personnel is also paramount. An air displacement system is Site considerations include new landscaping that used in a sustainable building to combine the use of requires no irrigation, the use of drought tolerant plant radiant heating and cooling to increase the comfort of materials and the use of fly ash content of concrete personnel throughout the fire station. In-lieu of typical and organic landscaping treatment, thereby avoiding overhead infra-red heaters, radiant floor systems are the application of synthetic products or chemicals for used to heat the apparatus bays, making the space more plant growth and pest control. Designing sustainable energy efficient and also more comfortable in which to landscaping with consideration of open green spaces, work. They are also used for the exterior apron to help 28 | The Responder Fire Industry News Sustainable Initiatives In The Architectural Design Of Alberta Fire Stations
prevent ice freeze. Low flow fixtures (toilets and urinals) impacts, are preferred. Further, targets as high as 75 per and infra-red motion detection taps help with water cent are considered for construction waste management efficiency. To give occupants more control over their ensuring that construction waste is recycled or salvaged environment a DDC (Direct Digital Control) System for instead of going to the landfill. HVAC is used. Additionally, indoor air quality can be improved with the use of low emitting products such as Innovation and Design is considered for design measures low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints, sealants that go above and beyond the first five environmental and adhesives. categories noted above. Successful implementation includes such things as exemplary performance of The architect will consider environmentally favourable individual LEED credits, achieving 45 per cent water products related to the construction of the building use reduction for example, or implementing a Green including products that serve several purposes and Education Program to educate both the occupants and products made with recycled content and/or renewable visitors about the benefits of green buildings. materials. Green purchasing of sustainable building materials is a responsible consideration to reduce The combination of energy efficient measures, economics negative effects on human health and the environment. and consideration of the environment all guide the Building materials that are recycled-sourced and/ design architect to deliver quality, comfortable spaces in or selected based on local supply or manufacturing, fire stations that provide the station personnel a work thereby reducing transportation costs and environmental and living environment to be enjoyed for many years.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 29 Fire Industry News
Certified Clean Protective Gear Is Essential For Safe Fire Fighting And Cancer Prevention By Brian Stecyk
Jonathan Fesik demonstrates moisture barrier testing for fabric leaks.
How clean is your protective clothing? Has it been He goes on, “In essence, if you use your protective inspected and maintained and are you confident that it clothing during a structural fire, it has become fully protects you? It is something you have to know! contaminated, and not just with dirt but also with chemicals, including carcinogens. It is important that “We clean and repair a lot of fire fighter clothing, duty the fire services accept this fact, because for too long gear, and station wear,” says Jonathan Fesik of The FIRM. dirty clothing was thought to be just part of the job “It isn’t as simple as it sounds. In order for us to be and a badge of honour. Well, it is an unfortunate part involved in the business we have to adhere to a stringent of the job that is causing higher rates of cancer than set of rules established by the NFPA (1851 and 1971).” the general population.” Jeffrey o. and Grace G. Stull, International Personnel Protection, Inc. Current regulations require that all fire fighting clothing must be inspected and cleaned by a certified “The FIRM works independently of distributors, some of independent service provider (ISP) preferably twice a which only want you to purchase new gear. Our job is to year but at a minimum once per year. The exact process inspect, clean and repair protective clothing. When we of inspection and cleaning is also strictly regulated return a garment we want to ensure the person wearing to ensure the safety of the fire fighter who wears the it has the full protection the gear was meant to provide. clothing. Each year we conduct about 5,000 inspections and certifications for our clients,” says Fesik. There are a myriad of chemicals that a fire fighter encounters when involved in a structural fire. These Jonathan knows about fire fighting. He served for 30 chemicals can be inhaled, ingested or absorbed through years with the City of Calgary Fire Department and retired the skin. Most ingestion or inhalation of chemicals is as Captain in 2007. Like many, he was introduced to a prevented by use of SCBA. Protective clothing prevents fire fighting career by a family friend—his best friend’s skin absorption but only if the clothing is clean and free dad. of tears. Over the years, he was involved in some of the largest According to Jeff Stull, internationally-known expert fires in Calgary including the Sungold fire; the Hub Oil in hazardous materials and clothing, soot is the big where his experience with new equipment made him a culprit when it comes to clothing contamination. Some valuable addition to the response team; and to several gasses can be trapped in soot which in turn becomes airport crashes. One of the most memorable was the fire trapped in clothing. Non water-soluble chemicals are at the downtown Calgary Americana Apartments. The also a problem. Jeff says, “Since soot is a primary carrier fire was extinguished with no loss of life. Jonathan and of hazardous chemicals, dirty clothing is contaminated another fire fighter, Al Rothery carried about 12 people clothing.” to safety.
30 | The Responder Fire Industry News
Rental gear is ready for shipment as temporary replacements, for training, or emergency needs.
“A couple of friends died from fire related cancers and I It is a family business. Every day is like a family reunion. decided to get more involved into the safety aspects of Jonathan is general manager, Ann Marie Fesik is clothing. Poor or non-maintained turnout gear leads to president and comptroller; Jamie Fesik is plant manager an extreme cost—loss of trained experienced fire fighters, and IT specialist, Veronick Dufanal handles shipping; and an even bigger problem—loss of life. We have to do receiving and organization; Richard Fesik is responsible our utmost to prevent it,” says Jonathan.
Jonathan started in the clothing business by working in Ensuring the Hudson’s Bay clothing department and then became Your Health involved in maintenance of fire fighting gear early in his fire fighting career (1982). The FIRM (Fire Industry Repair and Safety Maintenance) was incorporated in 2002. He became the full-time manager once he retired from the Calgary Fire Specializing in Fire Safety Department. Their facility is equipped to inspect, clean, Gear Cleaning and Repair and repair personal safety gear for structural, wildland, • ISP (Independent Service Provider) industrial and aviation fire fighting applications. • Certified Cleaning and Repair (NFPA 1851 & 1971) • Basic or Advanced Cleaning services A couple of friends • Record Keeping and
died from fire related Documentation
“ • Quick turnaround cancers and I decided to • Free return shipping get more involved into“ • Emergency rental protective gear
the safety aspects of Serving: Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, clothing. British Columbia, NWT, Yukon Call Jonathan Fesik: Toll-free 1.844.316.9147
Spring/Summer 2015 | 31 Fire Industry News
Fesik has taken all the necessary training and currently sits on the NFPA Committees for 1851 and 1971. The FIRM is fully certified as a Verified ISP. Certification costs between $10,000 and $15,000 per year depending upon the level.
Located in Calgary, The FIRM has clients in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, North West Territories and even one in Newfoundland. They do what they can to make it easy for the fire departments they work with. They provide a four to six day turnaround, pay return shipping and can clean up to 200 sets of clothing Protective gear is cleaned and repaired and ready to return to fire per day. If necessary, they also provide loaner-clothing departments. while gear is being cleaned. The FIRM also provides rental and emergency gear like they did during the Slave Lake for outside sales and marketing, and Steven Fesik helps Fire. They provided 50 sets of gear as spares and picked with general organization. Jonathan says, “It is difficult up and delivered it to their shop for cleaning and then to assign titles because we work as a team and everyone took it back to Slave Lake. helps everyone else. If something needs to be done everyone will pitch in. One thing you can count on is Repair in addition to cleaning is often necessary. First when you call The FIRM a Fesik will answer the phone!” clothing is put through a variety of tests and if repair is possible special patches that match manufacturers’ From a community and fire department perspective specifications are applied. The type, size and application there are huge liability issues. Departments spend a of patches are also governed by NFPA regulations to great deal of time on training and are often facing ensure appropriate protection continues. budgetary issues. One area they should never ignore is the necessary investment on maintenance, repair and The FIRM offers two levels of service—BASIC and replacement of protective outer gear. ADVANCED Cleaning. BASIC consists of flush, two
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32 | The Responder Fire Industry News
We take a great deal “ of pride in what we do—that’s why our
clients keep coming A seamstress sews reflective strips on
back and refer their protective clothing. colleagues to us. We “ get the job done and Each manufacturer has unique we do it right! fasteners and The Firm has them all. wash baths, and four rinse baths. This program targets Have you got an aspiring fire fighter in your life—a all soil groups and is intended to reduce or eliminate child or grandchild who would like nothing better that contaminates containing toxins and carcinogens. to have their own fire fighting gear? The FIRM offers ADVANCED includes the basic cleaning program genuine handmade NOMEX gear that has many of the with an additional full 76 point physical inspection to same details as worn by the pros! Each set includes a comply with NFPA 1851 standards for yearly cleaning of turnout coat, turnout pants, and adjustable suspenders. complete PPE including hood-drd-gloves, with recorded Sizes are available for kids from two to 12 years of age. repairs. It also includes pre-soak with specialized detergents and/or cleaning agents, hand processing, “We take a great deal of pride in what we do—that’s followed by flush, two wash baths, and four rinse baths. why our clients keep coming back and refer their This program targets all soil groups and is intended colleagues to us. We get the job done and we do it to reduce or eliminate contaminates containing toxins right!” concludes Jonathan. See what Jonathan does in and carcinogens. It also includes Velcro cleaning. When his spare time—go to page 36. clients receive their cleaned and repaired protective clothing it is certified and ready for use.
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Spring/Summer 2015 | 33 Fire Industry News
TRANSCAER® Events Prairie and BC, 2015 For detailed Information on each event visit www.transcaer.ca
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Flammable Liquids TRANSCAER® Moose Jaw August 06 - 07, 2015
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Flammable Liquids TRANSCAER® Lloydminster August 17, 2015 - August 21, 2015
Flammable Liquids TRANSCAER® Grande Prairie September 01 - 04, 2015
TRANSCAER® Training Jasper September 08, 2015 - September 11, 2015
TRANSCAER® Training Edmonton Fire September 14, 2015 - September 18, 2015
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FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS TRANSCAER GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB SEPTEMBER 1 – 4, 2015
34 | The Responder Health and Lifestyle
Guess Who Is Going
Fishing?By Brian Stecyk
Thanks to AFCA Trade Member, the Hawkeye Marine Group, one of Alberta’s fire chiefs will be catching the big one off the west coast of Vancouver Island.
The Hawkeye Marine Group sponsored the AFCA Golf Tournament offering a $10,000 hole-in-one prize but unfortunately no-one screamed for joy by sinking their ball. At the same time however and during the AFCA trade show, the Hawkeye Marine Group provided an opportunity to enter a seasonal draw for an all-expense paid fishing trip to Bamfield, British Columbia (airfare, ground transportation, accommodation and guided fishing). They offered the same draw opportunity at a variety of trade shows and golf tournaments over the summer and then had a draw from all the entries.
In the next issue of The Dan Lemieux is checking out fishing gear for his big trip. “Responder, we’ll report on The winner was Chief Dan Lemieux of the City of Grande
the fishing results of Dan’s Prairie. Dan was co-host of the 2014 AFCA convention held in Grande Prairie last June. Dan and his wife will be
trip. I’d like to hear that he travelling to Bamfield later this summer to fish for halibut caught a Tyee or a maximum“ and salmon. When your publisher, visited Bamfield last year he brought home salmon, halibut, cod, red snapper and allowable size halibut octopus. At the right time of the year, salmon over 30 lbs. —good luck Dan! are commonly caught. The Hawkeye Marine Group is offering the same draw prize this year—perhaps another fire fighter will win the all-expense paid trip for 2016.
Spring/Summer 2015 | 35 Health and Lifestyle
This year, the Hawkeye Marine Group is going further to recognize first responders. They are holding the Hawkeye First Responders Fish Tournament. It is exclusively for first responders and their immediate families. First responders from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta or British Columbia—fire fighters, police officers, paramedics, ambulance personnel, and similar professionals can participate.
Winners in each category will be awarded their choice of either a salmon rod and reel or a halibut rod and reel. There are 11 species of fish you can catch with the largest of each species winning a prize at the end of the season! Full details are available at www.hawkeyemarinegroup.ca.
In the next issue of The Responder, we’ll report on the fishing results of Dan’s trip. I’d like to hear that he caught a Tyee or a maximum allowable size halibut—good luck Dan!
Hawkeye First Responders Fish Tournament April to October 2015 Exclusive for First Responders and their families NO COST TO ENTER | GREAT PRIZES 11 species of fish to catch—winners in every category
April sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut, feeder spring salmon May feeder spring salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut June sockeye and feeder spring salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut July spring and coho salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut, tuna August spring salmon, coho salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut, tuna September spring and coho salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut, pink salmon, chum salmon, tuna October spring, coho, pink, and chum salmon, sea bass, red snapper, ling cod, halibut, tuna
Visit www.hawkeyemarinegroup.ca Call 1•877•728•FISH (3474) for full details and information about accommodation and guiding services
36 | The Responder Health and Lifestyle
A Bowness Boy With Roots In Kamsack, Saskatchewan Becomes A Big City Hero —The Other Side of Jonathan Fesik By Brian Stecyk
are gathered and cleaned for distribution to those in need. They collect clothing all year round.
“In 2013 we collected about 70,000 pieces of clothing and about 80,000 last year,” says Fesik. “We collect it from locations all over Calgary with a great deal of help from the Calgary Fire Department. Every fire station in Calgary is a donation centre. Fire fighters collect the clothing and then call Jonathan for pick up. Once we have it, we clean it and then package it for delivery to those in need.”
Like everything else at The FIRM, Project Warmth is a family effort. All the collection, cleaning and sorting of the donated clothing is done evenings and weekends with everyone on staff donating their time and effort.
“Whether it is in business or in the community Jonathan treats people as if they are family and everyone means a lot to him. It is an echo of his personality—he just gives and gives and gives,” says Brian Cornforth new City of When The Responder toured THE FIRM, it quickly Edmonton Deputy Fire Chief and retiring AFCA president. became apparent that one of the most important aspects “He is truly an ambassador of goodwill.” of the company was its contribution to the community. Perhaps it comes from Jonathan Fesik’s basic belief in The FIRM facility is being renovated with the addition of people and his willingness to help others or from the a mezzanine to accommodate the clothing donations. experiences he gained with the Calgary Fire Department. The amount of clothing in the main cleaning area is overwhelming and just a small part of the collection of the “At the fire department there was a great deal of past season. camaraderie—there had to be because we relied upon each other,” says Jonathan. Twenty-three years ago, the Calgary Project Warmth doesn’t go unnoticed. In 2014, the society Fire Department partnered with the Project Warmth Society. received the prestigious Stampede Legacy Award. A proud Started by Jonathan and his friend Gordon Hoffman a Jonathan accepted the award on the Society’s behalf. prominent Calgary lawyer, Project Warmth Society of “Without Jonathan there would be no project warmth,” Alberta is a registered charity that was formed to assist exclaims Gordon Hoffman, Society Director. Thanks to the homeless and the underprivileged. Blankets, gloves, Jonathan, Project Warmth gets bigger and bigger every sleeping bags, scarves, parkas, and items of warm clothing year and we are able to help more and more people. He
Spring/Summer 2015 | 37 Health and Lifestyle
and his family are exceptional—they never stop giving to Another project he undertook, while still a fire fighter the community.” and with his fellow fire fighters, was the construction of a Pancake Trailer. The trailer is used for openings and all Project Warmth is just one of many Fesik initiatives. He Co-op Stampede Breakfasts. On one occasion they served works with the Fallen Fire Fighters and donates cleaning 5,000 people in two and a half hours at a Calgary Co-op of protective clothing for Victor Fernandez and CAFSA. event. The Pancake Trailer is shared with the Calgary Co-op. Jonathan recently helped send 25 sets of bunker gear to a Jonathan hauls the trailer and the Co-op supplies the food. community in Spain. He is also involved in raising money An example is a visit to a seniors’ home where Jonathan for Muscular Dystrophy Canada and helped the United takes the trailer and his team cooks the food provided by Way with building of the Native Addictions Centre in the Co-op. Ramsey. During the recent floods the Co-op supplied the Pancake Trailer as it served displaced people in Blackie and High River. It is also used in Greenview to help the homeless with the Drop-in Breakfast.
Each year Jonathan hosts a BBQ with Co-op’s help for retired fire fighters on Stampede Sunday. “It is a great event—especially for the old timers—who still remember their fire fighting days. They enjoy the food and share some great stories,” says Jonathan.
On one occasion the Calgary Drop-In Centre called Project Warmth inquiring about the possibility of finding 300 towels. Towels weren’t in the Project Warmth repertoire, but that didn’t stop Jonathan. He wouldn’t say no. Instead he jumped into his truck and headed to the store where he bought 300 towels. That’s what heroes are made of!
38 | The Responder Proud to support firefighters across Alberta
At ATCO Gas, our commitment to you includes partnerships with the Alberta Fire Commissioner’s Office, the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, and city and volunteer fire departments across the province. Together, we also raise safety awareness through Fire Prevention Week and Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week.
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Spring/Summer 2015 | 39 Delivering AFRRCS Compatible Solutions, P25 Compatibility, Wireless Infrastructure, Mission Critical Service
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