Crews have been training on the various uses of wide area search rope. Crews discussed how to properly search while visually impaired as well as communication when locating a victim and removal techniques. It is very easy to get disoriented, you really need to focus & use your senses in these types of trainings where you can’t see where you are going.

Crews from C Shift worked together during a training session on stand
pipe operations. Here, crews can be seen advancing a hose line through a simulated doorway to attack a fire approximately 90 feet from the door. Crews practiced connecting an angled gauge to verify pressures, reduce kinking and assure we have the optimal GPM flowing.

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy toured Station 61 this past week. The first graders were very eager, polite & ready to learn about how things work around the firehouse. The children were able to look through all of the apparatus as well as learning about the equipment use. We always enjoy having kids stop by the station & the first graders from Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy were very nice to have around.

The NEFC held standpipe training at station 13's training tower located on Kenwood Rd. Departments that attended the training were Loveland-Symmes, Blue Ash, Mason, Sharonville. We familiarized ourselves with each department’s standpipe equipment. Crews also discussed operating pressures and possible problems that you can encounter using standpipes & how to overcome them.   

The Reds contacted the LSFD Color Guard about being the featured fire department in a joint police/fire evening on Opening Night.  Along with the West Chester PD Color Guard, both teams presented the colors for the National Anthem as the University of Cincinnati football team held an enormous US flag on the field. 

Last weeks CFA met at St 61 to get there gear issued. CFA members then went over the squad with ESU members Judy Nichols & Teri Goldfeder. Capt. Oughterson then led a training over R61 & the tools on the unit.

LSFD units dispatched for a structure fire at 890 West Loveland, upon arrival E63 found smoke in Apt C5 and the egress hallway,  Capt. Frye established command on the Alpha side. Occupants were evacuated from the building a supply line was established to E63 and 1 3/4 attack line was deployed. Crews found an overheated furnace in Apt C5 ejecting smoke, power was shut off and isolated problem. M73 transported a resident with symptoms of illness over in apartment K5 after calling 911. Salvage and overhaul were performed & all units available.
Units Onscene: D1, Chief 6001, E63, Q62, E60, T61, E88, R52, E93, T13, M73

Station 61 had a visitor recently from one of our Pedi Med members. Anderson stopped by to take a look at the trucks and hang out with the guys. We always enjoy when kids stop by to visit. The Pedi Med Program gathers information from parents on any medical conditions that may be encountered either at school or while at home. If you think your child might be a candidate for our Pedi Med Program please feel free to contact Chris Ellis at cellis@safety-center.org .

ESU members recently had pump training at Station 61. Capt. Oughterson went over basic operations, water pressures & different connection types. A complete overview of the pump panel was given of valves & incoming & outgoing pressures. Members also discussed problems that may be encoutered while pumping & how to trouble shoot for these type of incidents.

As you may be aware the LSFD Citizens Fire Academy started last week, as directed by Chief Huber. The members of ESU and others have spent many hours over the last several months planning for this program that will bring citizens "right in" to LSFD. Over the course of the next couple of months CFA members will see how the day to day operations here at LSFD work meanwhile learning about our trucks & equipment. We look forward to spending time with our CFA members during the course of this program.

In early 2010, Task Force One welcomed the addition of Butler County Sheriff's Office as members of Task Force One. Under the direction of Lieutenant Lance Bunnell and the support of Sheriff Richard K. Jones, Butler County now receives a regional service in water rescue and recovery.  Task Force One maintains the capability to be fully equipped with the latest technology which facilitates a safer service delivery.  With this regional collaboration, Task Force One continues to provide services through  sharing resources while working to reduce operating costs. Task Force One welcomes Lieutenant Mike Craft as the new Butler County Sheriff's Office representative.  Task Force One is honored to work along side the professional men and women of the Butler County Sheriff's Office.
 

LSFD units were dispatched for an unknown type fire, after going en route units were advised that there was a detached garage with two cars & a tractor on fire. D1 arrived on the scene with a working fire in the detached garage, which had spread to the adjacent structure with fire showing on the roof, Chief Books had command & accountability established on alpha side. Defensive strategy established due heavy fire involving both structures, D1 upgraded to a structure fire asked for NEFC units to be dispatched, all occupants confirmed out of the structure. E62 next on the scene pulled into the driveway pulled a 2 1/2" blitz line & started attacking the fire on the charlie side, T61was next into the driveway & established a water supply by hand jacking 5" to the hydrant. Elevated master streams were established with flying standpipes. E63 assigned to supply water to E62, M60 was on scene to assist on the primary fire structure & assisted with fire suppression. Chief 6001 assigned charlie & delta sector.  E88, E93, T13, R52 were all assigned to fire suppression, M73 assigned rehab, Chief 1301 assigned Alpha & Bravo, Chief 8601 assigned charlie, Chief 9201 assigned safety, Chief Camp assigned accountability, Chief Rose, Chief Blum, Chief Knapp assisted with command post, Chief Gregory assigned to investigation.  Crews on scene for extended amount of time due to amount of fire involved in structure.

Units were dispatched for a structure fire at 1111 West Main St, upon E62 arrival smoke was coming from the charlie side, Captain Frye had command. A large dog was removed from the charlie side with the assistance of Officer Alejandro. A forced entry was made on the bravo side door then the fire was quickly extinguished in dining room. Ventilation was provided, overhaul showed no extension other than the room or origin. Electric was then shutoff & red tagged due to exposed wires. Fire is still under investigation.
 
Units Onscene: D1, E62, E63, E60, T61, T13, ESU, Chief 6005, Chief 6008
Units in Staging: M73, R52
Units Cancelled: E93, E88

LSFD had Jordan Bell tour Station 62 last week for a school project, Jordan is in the first grade at Cincinnati Country Day. The first graders at CCD are working on an assignment called “City Project”  this involves building the important elements of a city. Since Jordan chose LSFD he will be building a replica of Station 62 out of cardboard & other materials. Jordan will give his presentation on LSFD on March 8th we wish him the best of luck!

 Units were dispatched for an auto accident, semi on its side with multiple vehicles involved, upon arrival R61 found a semi on its side with 3 additional vehicles damaged. One vehicle involved a passenger who needed to be extricated all other passengers were out of their vehicles upon arrival. There were three patients transported to Bethesda North for minor injuries. I-71 was shutdown for an hour for investigation purposes & roadway clean up.
Units onscene: D1, R61, M62, M60, Car 60-04, Car 60-05, E63, R73, E93, M73 & ESU

All shifts at LSFD will be completing air consumption drills. Individuals will see how long it takes for them to go through an air bottle meanwhile working through a modified obstacle course. Each member must be in full PPE & SCBA while traversing through the many obstacles to test their endurance & overall fitness. The main purpose of this training is to give each firefighter an idea of how much time they have on air in a working environment so they will know there limits. The course consists of a confined maze that each member must work through under tight quarters, hose drag & carry, ladder competency along with many other obstacles.

We are pleased to announce that the ESU has 6 new members to its ranks, Alex Derbinov, Alex Kerth, Tracy Desch, Teri Goldfeder, Marcus Rose & Adam Jeranek. The new members will be attending all ESU training sessions & will be supervised by senior members on ride alongs. Each new member has been assigned a mentor for the next several months.
ESU will also be conducting a citizen’s fire academy, starting on Wednesday, March 21st in the evenings. If you would like more information on the “Citizens Fire Academy “ please contact Lt. Jim Hellyer at jhellyer@safety-center.org .

LSFD was dispatched to a vehicle fire and upon arrival found a single vehicle, into a utility pole.  Crews quickly determined that the driver was trapped in the vehicle which was heavily damaged.  The car was cut away from the driver, freeing him in order to be flown to the University of Cincinnati ER.

T61 - Capt Poppe, FF Cotton, FF Fox, FF Flannery
M62 - Lt Hall, FF Dendler
Chief Huber, Chief Goldfeder, Chief Blum
DIST-1- Capt Benjamin
Deerfield Twp R57

At approximately 0130 on January 20th LSFD was dispatched to a residential structure fire. Crews were updated that the fire was reported to be in the master bathroom. T61 was first on scene and they noticed light smoke showing from the second floor of the house.  The home owner was in the front yard and once the crew verified that all occupants were out of the house, they started pulling hand lines and supply hose. As crews were ready to enter the house, they noticed that the smoke was intensifying. Crews made their way upstairs and into the master bedroom & bathroom and extinguished the fire. 
 
At the same time, crews from Sharonville (E88) and Sycamore (E93) followed T61 and started checking the attic in case the fire had got above the bathroom ceiling. 
 
Units on scene:  T61, Q62, E63, E60, Dist-1, Chief 60-01, Chief 60-05, E88, E93, T13, R52, M73

LSFD is the recipient of the 2012 Motorola Grant for our Emergency Support Unit. We will receive nearly $10,000 for our Citizens Fire academy and other ESU programs.  Special Thanks goes to Our ESU group for being worthy of such recognition and our CFO Candy Cook & Assistant Chief Turner for their efforts in applying for the grant.

I-275 was shut down on Thursday, December 8th late into the afternoon due to a roll over type auto accident. Crews were onscene for 3 patients & to secure the vehicle along with the Hamilton County Sheriff's. Two of the patients were Air Cared, once the scene was cleared the highway was re-opened.

Local Cub Scouts recently visited St. 61 for a tour. The scouts were able to look through the living quarters, offices & look through the apparatus.  FF Ellis put on his full PPE so the boys could see what how our gear looked when fully donned. LSFD would like to thank the Cub Scouts for stopping by, they were a group of fine young men.

On Saturday November 5, 2011 the USO held a fund raiser at the Duke Energy Convention Center in Downtown Cincinnati. The backdrop for the event was the “National 9/11 Flag”. A call went out to firefighters to serve as an honor guard for this piece of history and the LSFD was happy to lend a hand. Captain Tom Benjamin along with Firefighters from across Hamilton County and Northern Kentucky all took turns guarding the immense flag that literally has history woven into its fabric. 
Much like the United States, the National 9/11 Flag was tattered & torn when it was found in the debris of the World Trade Center buildings shortly after the attacks. It was promptly hung on nearby scaffolding during much of the demolition. When it was finally taken down, the smoke had turned its white stripes to gray and it was being held together by threads.
In 2008 the flag made its way to Greensburg Kansas where survivors from a large tornado started stitching the flag back together. Since then it has traveled across the country making stops in every state where the honor of stitching it back together has been shared. Threads from other very significant flags have been added, such as threads from the flag that President Abraham Lincoln was laid on when he was shot, members of Martin Luther King Jr’s family have added stitches as well as servicemen/women from the US Armed Forces.
Cincinnati was the first of six cities to have the honor of hosting this flag before it is permanently added to the National September 11th Museum in Manhattan. We encourage you to go to the National 9/11 Flag’s web site at: www.national911flag.org to learn more about this amazing flag. 

LSFD has just hired 10 new members to the next recruit class. Recruits will need to complete there FTO packets along with practicals over fire & ems as well. Congratulations to these young men & welcome to the LSFD family.

St. Nick was out & about in Symmes Twp last week. Thank you to everyone who came out in the rainy weather and provided toys to the Toys For Tots Charity. Santa was taken to different neighborhoods by E60, E62 & E15. Everyone who gave a gift received a goody bag from St. Nick himself. Thanks again to everyone involved with this wonderful event.

E60 & D1 were dispatched for a CO Alarm at 8939 Arabian Ct, upon arrival E60 crew found a smell of smoke coming from inside the structure. Additional crews were immediately dispatched to the scene & District Chief Gregory had Incident Command. E60 stretched an 1 3/4 line from E60 to the front of the garage, E62 went back to the garage and placed an attic ladder to gain access to the attic above the garage. Upon inspection of that space crews found heavy smoke with no fire at that time. There was some heat signature in the rear of the attic space shown on the thermal imaging camera. Command was advised that there was the need for vertical ventilation above the garage and that ceiling was going to be pulled in the garage area. Once a ventilation hole was cut by Q63 smoke began to clear and active fire was found in the rear of the attic space, which was above living room of the house. The fire was extinguished quickly with an 1 3/4 line and was contained to the rear of the attic space. Overhaul was performed in the living room area by E93 and T13 crews. Additional crews onscene were M73, ESU M62, E88, E93, R92 & T61. Once the scene was cleared command released all companies.

Deputy Chief Knapp was a keynote speaker at this quarters Trauma Scope presented by Bethesda North. This quarters symposium was over mass casualty incidents, Chief Knapp gave a presentation over preventing communication disasters. Faculty for trauma scope also included Michelle Ziemba, Director of Trauma & Emergency Services University Medical Center & Stuart  Rodeffer, Battalion Chief Northwest Fire/Rescue District, Tuscon Arizona. Both Michelle & Chief Rodeffer were critical leaders in the Gabby Giffords shooting that took place at a convenient store in Tuscon, Arizona. They gave a first hand account of the challenges you can face in a mass casualty incident. Several members from local fire departments as well as hospitals attended this event. Thanks again to Chief Knapp for a job well done.

Crews from station 61 visited Symmes Elementary to talk about fire safety. Firefighters discussed safety tips with the children & answered all the questions students had. Afterwords the children were able to go outside & look through the different apparatus that were available. Thanks again to the students and faculty at Symmes Elementary for allowing LSFD to be apart of their day.

Members of C-Shift recently visted the Loveland Primary School to talk about fire safety. FF/Medic Bruce Hawk donned his full turnout gear so the students could see & feel what our gear was like. Students also were able to go through LSFD's apparatus & take a look at the equipment we use on a regular basis. A good time was had by all & a special thanks to the staff of LPS for letting us spend a portion of our day with them.

LSFD was asked recently by members of the Air Force Serving in Afghanistan to donate patches to their firefighters memorial. A memorial was erected in the memory of firefighters who lost there lives in Afghanistan & on 9/11. LSFD was more than happy to contribute a Loveland Symmes patch as well as a Northeast Fire Collaborative patch for this worthy memorial.

LSFD in cooperation with Susan G. Komen held a fundraiser this past Sunday at the TGI Friday's. This event was a huge success, LSFD personnel & family members were able to raise close to a $1000 off of food sales & raffle tickets. LSFD had M61 & T61 on the premises for patrons to look through & Stonelick Twp brought out their pink engine for photos as well. A great time was had by all, a special thank you to TGI Firday's & Traci Clancy of Susan G. Komen.

Members of LSFD will be at the T.G.I. Friday's at 9141 Fields Ertel Rd this Sunday, October 9th, 5:30 - 7:30. Personnel will be serving patrons with a portion of the profits going to Susan G. Komen. Please make it out to support LSFD & Susan G. Komen.

Units dispatched for an auto accident with entrapment. Upon arrival crews found a three car auto accident with moderate damage to all vehicles. District Chief Mike Books was the Incident Commander.  Engine 60, Rescue 61, and District 1 blocked scene for safety, Engine 60 & Rescue 61 crews had to extricate two victims from different vehicles, batteries were secured, floor dry applied to leaks, and scene lit up with lights for safety. Two victims removed from vehicles and transported to the hospital by Medic 62 & 63, there was one patient refusal. 

Units dispatched for a reported working structure fire flames & smoke showing. Units arrived on scene of a medium two story residential structure with heavy fire & smoke coming from roof. District Chief Gregory was the IC, command & accountability established on the delta side. T61 was unable to make entry into driveway due to its width & trees. E62 & Q63 laid over 1500 feet of 5” hose to fire, defensive strategy established with collapse zone. Once Sycamore E93 was on scene they laid an additional 1500 feet of 5” hose for supply. Elevated master streams, flying standpipes, and other master streams were used to knock down fire. Chief Brown had safety, District Chief Books had Alpha, and Chief Jetter had Recon & Demobilization. Crews continued with defensive strategy, no offensive strategy due heavy involvement and structural collapse of building. Fire extinguished & crews were on scene for extended time overhauling the fire, Medics on scene checked out one resident who refused care. Once the scene was cleared all units available.

When you are out driving around please be aware of crews on the roadside. Crews from LSFD will be out and about painting hydrants. These hydrants are in high traffic areas, so please be mindful of your surroundings.

ESU has been busy training over the course of the month over crane operations. Members went over controls, pulley systems & lifting a steel beam. ESU is one of LSFD's most valuable assets. Nice job guys & keep up the good work!

Hamilton County and Clermont County Fire Chief’s Associations and the Northeast Fire Collaborative are hosting the 10th Anniversary Remembrance of 9/11, Sunday September 11, 2011 from 4 PM to 6 PM.
A patriotic celebration of America and a remembrance of the  public safety personnel lost in the attacks.
 
 
The event will be held near the Loveland Firefighters Memorial located in Nesbit Park next to the City of Loveland City Hall. There will be Color Guards from throughout the region as well as the Cincinnati Caledonian Pipe and Drum Band.  The ceremony will open with the presence of 343 American Flags each of which represent a public safety worker who was killed that morning.  A blessing of helmets will be done for our area regional first responders. 
The keynote speaker is Lt. Steve Mormino, FDNY (RET). Lt. Mormino was in Loveland for the first anniversary memorial and was kind enough to join us again.  Lt. Mormino arrived in lower Manhattan just before midnight on 9/11 and he worked there constantly for the next four months.  Years later he learned that his lungs had been permanently damaged from the particles in the air at ground zero and he was forced to retired as a result.  Lt. Mormino will give a firsthand account of life in the New York area after 9/11.  
In local tribute to lives lost, plaques depicting three local firefighters who have been lost in the line of duty will be unveiled on the firefighter’s memorial.    Captain Robin Broxterman,                     Lt. Paul Montavon and Firefighter Oscar Armstrong will be memorialized.  Their plaques will be available for public viewing throughout the day. 
 A patriotic concert by the Clermont County Philharmonic Orchestra follows the official program. This event is open to the public and will involve an impressive display of public safety honor guards and personnel. 
Free public parking and shuttle service to the memorial will be available at the Shoppers Haven parking lot on Loveland Madeira Road. 
How will you honor the lives lost?
 
Loveland Fireman’s Memorial
Nisbet Park Loveland, Ohio
Sunday 9/11/2011 4PM to 6PM
www.nefcfire.com

Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder appeared on CNN’s Morning Express with Robin Meade along with IAFC President Chief Jack Parow & IAFC Executive Director Mark Light. Chief Goldfeder was on hand to speak on the budget issues facing the fire service. Chief Parow presented Robin Meade with an honorary chief’s helmet. Atlanta Firefighters were also on the set of the show as well. Thanks again to Chief Goldfeder for representing LSFD & for being an outstanding role model in the fire service.

Rescue 61, Medic 61, Eng 60, Dist 1, dispatched for a single car accident on Montgomery, car into a tree, Medic 86 was on scene, upon arrival crews found a single car into a tree head on with passenger inside. The passenger was entrapped around his feet & also had multiple injuries obvious. Crews pulled the steering column to free the patient’s feet, with the assistance of Medic 86. Bethesda North was advised of a trauma alert, patient transported to B North.

The following members were recognized at the August 23 Loveland City Council meeting.  All these members received the medal of courage for the rescue of three civilians from the flash flood on July 24th.
 
It goes without saying they all performed remarkably well with honor and courage as they went about their job of rescuing these citizens. From the 911 call to the actual rescue it took an entire team effort to save these individuals before they were swept away.
 
911- Operators  Lois Reece, Lorna Rose
 
FF. Ryan Banks
Captain Thomas David Benjamin
FF. Christopher Patrick Ellis
FF. Andrew Robert Huber
FF. Leslie Wayne Allen
FF. Jeremy Edward Saum
FF Bill Eugene Adkins
FF Robert Allen Kirby
District Chief Michael Anthony Books
District Chief Mark Patrick Rose
Fire Chief Otto Jeffrey Huber

LSFD sent members to help Habitat for Humanities  on their new build. If you are not familar with Habitat for Humanity it's a great organization to donate some time to. HFH is founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat and its homeowner families have built or rehabilitated more than 400,000 houses. Everyone from LSFD was very happy to donate their time for this great cause. If you are interested in volunteering your time to Habitat for Humanity please click on the link below.

http://www.habitat.org/default.aspx?tgs=OC8xOC8yMDExIDU6MDE6NTEgUE0%3d

Crews responded to a fire alarm drop at 1020 Loveland Madeira Rd on August 6th, upon arrival crews smelled the odor of something burning in the building. Crews pulled a handline to the front door and the ladder company laddered the building. Capt. Benjamin was in command, Chief Goldfeder had control of the alpha side, Chief Turner was also on scene to assist. Investigation revealed a faulty smoke detector. The odor came from a resident cooking which was no connection to the alarm drop. Once the scene was cleared all units went available.

Station 63 participated in LPD's National Night Out on August 2nd, 2011.  This event is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. This event took place at Nisbet Park, the crew had Q63 available for participants to look over the truck & even sit inside. LSFD also had a table set up for education on fire safety awareness. LPD set up a great event & LSFD was happy to contribute, a great time was had by all.

D1, R61, E60 & M62 dispatched for a water rescue, people trapped in rising swift water near the river on the Loveland Bike Trail. Chief Huber had command while District Chief’s Books & Rose were on scene for assistance. Units had some difficulty in locating the victims due to them not knowing their exact location. Cell phone communication was kept the entire time with the trapped victims, victims located in a culvert pipe under the bike trail with the help of a bystander. Rope, PFD's, and throw bags were deployed on either side of the culvert pipe, PFD's secured to victims and firefighters assisted the three victims from the culvert pipe. Miami Twp Fire & EMS were also on scene for assistance. Three patient refusals were taken, on victim and were transported to a safe location by EMS crew. Please click on the links below for the videos.
 
http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/news/region_east_cincinnati/symmes_township/family-rescued-from-little-miami-river
 
http://www.wlwt.com/weather/28650898/detail.html

On June 7th at around 9am, Task Force 1 Dive team was resquested by Clermont County Sheriff's Office to assist in a possible victim recovery at the Chilo 34 Lock Park Boat Ramp off of U. S. Rt. 52. It all started around 3:00 AM when a tow boat operator observed a boat floating down the Ohio River with no one aboard. The boat was eventually stopped at the Locks at the Meldahl Dam by 7:00 AM. An employee at the Dam went to the Chilo boat ramp and located a truck still running and backed down the ramp with the trailer still in the water. No one was located after an extensive search of the area and the trucks owners residence. Task Force 1 was called to dive in and around the dock space to try to locate a victim. Boone County Water Rescue was then called to assist with Sonar Operations but disregarded after divers located the victim just after 1:40 PM. The Clermont County Coroner responded to the scene and ODNR Division of Watercraft will he handling the investigation. A special thanks out to all agencies who responded: U.S. Coast Guard, ODNR Division of Watercraft, Clermont County Sheriff's Office, Washington Twp. Fire Department, Bethel Tate Fire Department, Felicity Franklin Fire and EMS, Boone County Water Rescue, and the American Red Cross.

D1, T61, E62, E60 & E63 dispatched for a possible appliance fire. NECC advised that fire was reported out by occupant, but unsure of extension. Units arrived on scene found nothing showing from a medium two story residency from the alpha, bravo, or delta sides, command and accountability established on the alpha side by District Chief Books. T61 crew went inside found fire extinguished, no extension noted, area checked with TIC, homeowner extinguished grease fire with water, per homeowner, wife placed oil on stove got distracted by children and was alerted to the fire by smoke detector. Fire contained to kitchen area, stove and exhaust fan removed, red tag issued, building positive pressure ventilated, and deodorizer used. Building checked again with TIC no apparent extension, report taken, all units available.

At 21:44 hours, Loveland Symmes Fire Department was requested to assist a resident in the 200 block of Redbud Court in the Pheasant Hills subdivision, Loveland Ohio for a report of a large St. Bernard dog lying in the bottom of a revene with possible injuries.  The ravene was approximately 100 to 150 feet into the woods and down a steep embankment aproximately 15 to 20 feet.  Crews assembled from R61, M62, E63 and D1 and prepared rope rescue equipment to safely lower 2 rescuers and prepare to bring their pet to safety. The pet was being cared by an adult on the scene who assisted Loveland Symmes Fire Department rescuers. A lowering system was rigged and included a belay to access the site.  Rescuers placed their pet into a litter and secured her for the haul out of the revene. The lowering system was changed to a haul line and on the ready command of the rescuers, the crews began hauling the litter to safety.  Additional assistance provided to the resident and the operation was terminated at 23:19 hours.

District 1 and Tower 61 were dispatched to Harpers Point apartment Complex for 5 baby ducks that had fallen into a storm drain. Upon arrival units found 5 ducklings that had slipped through the grate over the drain and were now down 3-4 feet at the bottom of the storm drain. The towers crew removed the grate to gain access to the trapped ducklings, and set up air monitoring to assure firefighter safety before entering. Upon entry it was discovered that the ducklings had made their way into 2 feeder pipes and 1 outflow pipe. After blocking off the other exits from the drain, and with the help of some duck feed the crew was able to retrieve the ducklings, and return them safely to their mother and two siblings that were anxiously awaiting their return on the surface. Special thanks to Deputy Oppenheimer with District 3 HCSO, he was a big help in the rescue of the ducklings.

 

D1, R61, M62 & E60 were dispatched for a 2 car mva with an entrapment at the intersection of Mason Rd & Governors Way. Upon arrival one vehicle found on its driver side with a patient entrapment and the other vehicle badly damaged. District Chief Rose had command while Deputy Chief Goldfeder & Deputy Chief Blum were on scene assisting. Crews cut off the roof to the vehicle on its side & extricated the patient. Patient was transported to the hospital all other crews went available.

Stephanie Charves representing John Hancock & Dennis Hartman representing Robert W. Baird Company held a meeting with all 3 shifts last week for LSFD’s annual contract review.  Representatives gave a review of LSFD’s retirement plans & investing options. During the meeting Stephanie & Dan discussed contract & participant level statistics, usage of services, investment options for individual plans and their associated charges. Following the presentation there was also a Q&A portion as well.

This past weekend was the Amazing Race with a large turnout of competitors in the local area. This made for a busy Saturday at LSFD, bike medics were out in full force for any injuries. The dive team was out in the Little Miami River to assist any of the canoers in need of assistance. M63 was in the area to assist anyone in need. Our ESU members ran the hose event with E63 as well. LSFD is happy to say no one was injured and the race was a total success. Congratulations to all of the competitors!

FF/EMT-P Jeremy Saum competed in the Police & Fire Games 10K on Friday, June 17. The race took place in Rona Hills Park, Fairborn, Ohio. Jeremy took second place in his division with a time of 51:37. Jeremy was sponsored by the Loveland Symmes Firefighter's Association for this years event. Congratulations Jeremy on a job well done.

TF1 was dispatched for a man down in a pond at Smith Park in Middletown. Please click on the link below for the full story.

http://projects.daytondailynews.com/cache/galleries/News/Local/060911drowning/
 

Capt. Frye, FF/EMT-P Dutlinger, FF/EMT-B Eadicicco, FF Banks set up a static display at Symmes Library for local residence to view our apparatus & equipment. Crew spoke on issues such as fire safety & summer tips to staying safe. A fun afternoon was had by all.

D1, T61, M63 were dispatched to 2 car MVA on northbound I-71. Once crews arrived onscene District Chief Books had command. T61 crew disabled the 2 vehicles while M63 crew transported one patient to the hospital.

Loveland Elementary held it's Field Day at Nisbet Park the last couple of days. Students participated in various activities & events. The humid weather wasn't able to slow these students down from their events. M63 was onscene to assist with any EMS needs. Everyone from LSFD hopes these students enjoy the rest of their school year & summer!

Loveland City Manager Tom Carroll is hosting a series of  neighborhood meetings at City Hall over the course of the summer. This is a forum for the public to have a Q&A session with there local goverment and to address any needs or problems. LSFD  & LPD crews are on hand as well to take questions from the public.

City Manager Tom Carroll hosted Loveland Elementary students at  City Hall to learn how there local goverment runs. There were many activities as students making there own laws and voting on them. E62, M63, LPD & Public Works were on hand to take questions & show off equipment. Afterwords students went outside to look though all the different vehicles.

D1, T61 & M62 was dispatched for an MVA with injuries at Sams Club. Upon arrival Chief Rose had command, T61 crew disabled the vehicle & cleaned off fluids from the parking lot. M62 crew assessed the driver of the tow truck and found no injuries. Crews were onscene a short time then went available.

Over the next couple of weeks LSFD crews will be performing our annual hose testing at St 62. Hose testing is required to be performed once a year on all appparatus to make sure all hose can withold the high pressures that the pumps produce & to keep our firefighters safe from burst hose. All different sizes are being tested from 1 inch to 5 inch diameter hose. The hose are rolled out in 200 feet sections, filled with water at a set pressure for that type of hose. Once you reach your set pressure the hose must set for 5 minutes without leaking water or acquiring any deformites.

LSFD’s own Staff Sergeant Brad Mckee just returned from his deployment with the 377th MP Co. in Afghanistan. Brad was deployed for 2 months of training in Ft. Bliss TX, and 10 months in Afghanistan. The 377th MP Co. ran prisons in different areas of the country. For half the tour Brad was a shift supervisor and for the second half he was NCOIC (non-commissioned officer in-charge) of a facility. This was his second deployment, with his first deployment in Iraq. Welcome back Brad & congratulations on a job well done!

LSFD members Captain Frye, FF/EMT-P Ellis, FF/EMT-B John Eadicicco attended Howell Rescue 2011 Crash Course in Dayton, Ohio. This course consisted of 2 days worth of scenario based vehicle extrication & hands on training. Training also had an emphasis on maintaining a high level of safety during extrication of victims from vehicle wreckage as quickly as possible. LSFD’s Deputy Chief Blum was also one of many instructors from across the country to participate as well.

45 Personnel from the NEFC started a 9 month long Rescue Training Series that will enhance our ability to respond to Technical Rescue Incidents.  Personnel will complete over 100 hours of Rescue Training in the areas of Rope Rescue, Structural Collapse, Confine Space, Trench Rescue, auto extrication and machinery rescue.  Personnel will complete the training in November of this year.  All of the personnel will be trained in the same way to enhance operations in the hazard zone.  Personnel will have the same skill sets and abilities so that we can all help each other.  Once the training is complete these 45 personnel will join an additional 50 personnel who have already completed rescue school.  The NEFC will be able to deliver 20 -25 rescue trained personnel to the scene of any rescue incident within the NEFC response area in 15 minutes.  Collaboratively we will provide a better service to all entities involved.  This Rescue Training Series is being taught in house by instructors within the NEFC.

LSFD responded to the railroad bridge for a person trapped on the railroad trussel. Upon arrival crews found a 17 year old male stuck on the trussel that holds up the bridge. During the investigation crews found that the boy was stuck on the trussel. The EMS crew tossed the boy a life vest with a rope attached in case he fell into the rushing current, crews were set up downstream in case the young man fell into the water. The young man put on a life vest and was assisted to safety by LSFD. Please be safe & stay away from the railroad tracks & bridges.

Firehouse Subs has opened up a new location in the local area. The restaurant decor is of LSFD photos that have been taken over the years with some of our old equpment on the walls. One very talented artist even painted a mural of an apartment fire that took place within Symmes Twp. Firehouse Subs is located at 4750 Fields Ertel Rd, Cincinnati, Oh 45249, click on the link below and check out their website.

All shifts will be training on the new Vindicator Nozzles that will be placed on LSFD apparatus. The new nozzles are very efficient, they apply 75% more water while applying less force on the firefighter operating the nozzle. Tools like these take a tough job and make it easier on a fire scene.Crews  will also discuss different types of hose loads & thread options within the different apparatus in the NEFC. Training also includes  hose deployment drills along with different techniques. This is to ensure our hose does not get tangled during deployment. Take a look at the pictures of B-Shift's training and the ease of the operators with these nozzles.

During A-Shift's monthly Blue Card Training on strip malls, District Chief Rose gave a lecture on building construction & there effects on the fireground. A portion of the lecture covered flat roof construction & the dangers that come with this type of roof.

Q63 responded with M62 and D1 to a reported auto accident with possible injuries at 273 East Kemper. Upon arrival District Chief Books had East Kemper command, crews found a single car into a electric pole. Fire crews noticed right away the danger of the smoking wires above the patient and his family who were on scene. Q63 crew removed patient and family to a safe location where M62 evaluated the patient. There were 3 large explosions as the wires made contact with each other, shorting our creating a power loss to part of Loveland. Q63 and D1 remained on scene shutting down river side until the scene was made safe by Duke Energy.

LSFD Units were dispatched on Friday, April 8th for a reported fire on the roof of Desha’s Restaurant, units arrived on the scene with nothing showing from side Alpha or Delta, upon further investigation a small fire on the roof was being extinguished by occupants with garden hose, building evacuated, District Chief Books & Chief Huber had accountability and command established on side Alpha. Two supply lines established, interior attack lines pulled, two aerial ladders put in service on Bravo and Alpha side. Fire contained to roof, fire discovered by HVAC worker. No extension was found, roof overhauled and tarped, report taken, and all units went available.
Mutual aid from Sharonville (E88-4), Sycamore (E93 - 4), Blue Ash (T13 - 4), Mason (R52 - 3), Montgomery (M-73 -2), IMAT 61 (3)

Deputy Chief Goldfeder is currently in Washington D.C. attending CFSI. Chief is moderating sessions on a bunch of different issues we face in the fire service. Please click on the link below to read the article. Thanks again to Chief Goldfeder and the outstanding job he does representing LSFD & the rest of the fire service.

For the month of April LSFD will be training on crane operations with R61. Equipment on the rescue unit has been reorganized with the arrival of new equipment and the reconfiguration of compartments. During training the crews will go over the different rigging systems from lifting a car to lifting a patient out of a hard to reach area. The techniques that are required for these types rigging vary dramatically, it's imperative that our crews no how to properly set the rigs.

 Chief Otto Huber and Deputy Chief Josh Blum of the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department were invited to speak about the Blue Card Hazard Zone Management program at the 2011CPSE Excellence Conference in Orlando Florida by the President of the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE), Fire Chief Randy Bruegman of Anaheim, California. Chief Alan Brunacini, retired Chief of the Phoenix Fire Department and long time mentor of the LSFD, served as the opening keynote speaker for the conference.

Chief Brunacini’s keynote address was based upon the concept of personal effectiveness. He presented the idea by posing a question to every audience member, “What do you wish someone had taught you before you got in the position you currently hold?” He led a humorous yet informative discussion around various individual responses. The core message was that our early technical preparation and training to control an emergency incident do not adequately prepare us for positions where we are responsible for understanding, managing, and leading an organization or personnel. Also, we cannot select and adhere to a single method of dealing with management and leadership positions. Instead, we must be able to adapt to and apply different solutions to different situations.

Chief Huber spoke about the criticality of proper Incident Management and how the Blue Card Hazard Zone Management program has served the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department as well as the Northeast Fire Collaboration in establishing a standard of performance for scene management and personnel training. Throughout the conference Chief Huber and Deputy Chief Blum participated in workshops and breakout sessions on the effectiveness of the Blue Card system and the certification process.
 

On March 14th, the first grade class from Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy stopped in to visit the firefighters at ST-61.  They graciously dropped off lots of goodies & snacks for them and in turn, they were given a tour of the fire station, fire safety talk, tour of the apparatus, chances to see the equipment and Molly who is having her 8th birthday today, was dressed up in fire gear!
 
Public tours such as this gives us a chance to see the public face to face and to show them where we live and work.  It gives the adults as well as the children to chance to see just what it really is like to be a firefighter.  We look forward to opportunities such as this as we can teach them about crawling through smoke, changing smoke detector batteries and Stop, Drop & Roll!!
 
On duty Crew:  Capt Tom Benjamin, FF/P Andy Huber, FF/P Chris Ellis & FF/P Matt Stickley

LSFD took 1st place in the "Fight For Air" Carew Tower Climb on Sunday, February 20th. The event was held by the American Lung Association, LSFD raised $300 for lung disease. This year there was a firefighters division that consisted of a 45 story climb in full turnout gear. LSFD competed against 4 other departments to take the event. LSFD's team consisted of Matt Kohl, Jonathan Goecke & Andrew Becker a fellow firefighter. The team took the top 3 spots in the climb to finish with a total time of 26:47. Cody Haag of LSFD also competed in the event with another department as well. Listed below is the team placements, congrats guys on a job well done!

1. Loveland Symmes Fire Dept.

2. Union Fire Fighters

3. West Chester Fire Dept.

4. Sugarcreek

5. Cleves Fire & Rescue

Symmesfest 2011 will take place June 16 – 18 at Symmes Park. If you are looking for something to do with the family and have never been to Symmesfest please come and enjoy the show. Each night there is a local band that plays, with plenty of food booths and games. Kids will definitely enjoy the rides and at the end of each night a fireworks display caps off the evening. Listed below are the dates & times and if you are looking for booth or general information please contact Linda Keeley @ 513-774-3016. See you there!
 
 
Symmes Park 11616 N. Lebanon Rd. Loveland, Oh 45140
Thursday, June 16, 6:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.
Friday, June 17, 6:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.
Saturday, June 18, 5:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M.

Wednesday, May 4th 2011, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Receptions Conference Center
10681 Loveland Madeira Road, Loveland Ohio
 
Come enjoy a free lunch provided by the Loveland Symmes Firefighters and prepared just for you by the Chefs of Receptions.
 
Enjoy demonstrations and informational booths from local vendors and groups specializing in the health and welfare of today’s mature adults.
 
Door prizes, entertainment and lots of give-a- ways to all participants. Transportation provided if needed.Event limited to 100 seniors. Please R.S.V.P. to Linda Keeley at 774-3016.

Shift Training for March has begun at LSFD. Crews are reviewing Standard Operating Guidelines for the Northeast Fire Collaborative. These SOG’s cover anything from apparatus placement on a fire scene to an offensive fire control. These guidelines have tactical points that must be followed during an event to set ourselves up for success. Chief Blum is also giving a lecture on the impact of ventilation and fire behavior. During the presentations crews discuss how the introduction of oxygen effect’s the fire, and different strategies to extinguish a fire meanwhile keeping the fire contained to one room or environment. These discussions take place not only to minimize damage to a property but also keeping a fire ground safe for the firefighters who are working in it.

On Monday, February 28th at 18:23 D1, T61 & E62 were dispatched for a fire investigation. Upon arrival crews found nothing showing & District Chief Rose had command. Interior crews were advised by the homeowner that there was smoke & fire coming from a ceiling fan in the bathroom, upon further investigation crews removed fan & found a small fire in the attic area. Command upgraded the scene to a structure fire and asked for the balance of the first alarm, E60, Q63, E88, T13, M73 & E93 were dispatched. Hand lines were pulled & a water supply was established, tarps were laid to prevent water damage, crews removed ceiling around the area and found no extension and there was no smoke in the structure.  Crews cleaned up the area, electric was secured at the fixture. Chief Blum, Chief Books, & Chief Goldfeder were on the scene for assistance. Once the structure was secured all units went available.

On Saturday, February 26th at 17:50 D1, T61, E60, E62, Q63, E88, T13, M73 & E93 were dispatched for a structure fire at Cincinnati Hills Elementary. E93 was first on scene, Chief Gregory had command. There was excessive heat & smoke in the building. It was discovered that combustibles had been left next to a kiln that had been left on. There was no fire, just smoldering, products were removed from the building. Hand lines were pulled to the C-Side of the structure where the Kiln was located & ventilation efforts were deployed from the A-Side. Chief Goldfeder, Chief Books, Chief Blum, Chief Hammonds & Chief Jetter were on scene for assistance. Once the structure was cleared all units went available.

LSFD will be providing another Train the Trainer class for Blue Card. Take a look at our attached flyer or conatct Chief Josh Blum for more information at 513-792-7330 or jblum@safety-center.org

COLUMBUS, OHIO:  The Northeast Fire Collaborative (NEFC) received the prestigious award for intergovernmental cooperation from the Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA) at their annual Conference held in Columbus on February 24, 2011.

This OCMA award recognizes governmental agencies that work together to successfully address problems or improve service to the community. The communities of Blue Ash, Loveland, Sharonville, Sycamore Township and Symmes Township formed the Northeast Fire Collaborative in 2008 and Mason joined it in 2009.

The Northeast Fire Collaborative mobilizes the assets of six communities and thirteen fire stations, bringing together more than 300 firefighters to provide safer fire ground operations and smarter business operations.  Serving over 105,000 residents, the Northeast Fire Collaborative achieves the operating efficiencies of a much larger metropolitan fire department while allowing each community to maintain its identity.  OCMA recognized that the NEFC modal overcame many of the challenges inherent in the often-times balkanized service delivery of emergency medical and fire services.

Sharonville Fire Chief Ralph Hammonds is the president of the NEFC.  He said, “We recognized the new economic reality dictates that fire departments look for better ways to fund and staff fire departments.  The immediate benefit of the NEFC is it puts more firefighters on a fire scene faster with the necessary management to handle the call.  This means we meet the NFPA 1710 minimum staffing guideline every time.  Individually, these departments could never afford to have those resources solely committed to their community.”

Chief Hammonds noted that the NEFC benefits are just starting to accrue.  Through joint purchasing, the NEFC departments have saved 30% on turnout gear, 25% on disposable EMS supplies and 50% on annual ladder testing costs.  Hammonds said, “Our residents are demanding cost savings, and through this collaboration, our departments are delivering.”

OCMA recognized that this model is repeatable around Ohio, and in other metropolitan areas around the nation.  The NEFC was a finalist for the award in innovation from the International Association of Fire Chiefs in 2010.

LSFD was dispatched for a fire alarm drop at Asian Paradise at 9521 Fields Ertel Rd, upon arrival nothing showing from the side Alpha, upon further investigation found moderate smoke on inside of structure. Alarm was upgraded to full first response; Engine 62 went Charlie side to lay 1 3/4" attack line and 5" supply line. Engine 62 crew found no active fire just smoke. Fire contained to cooking oil on fryer, no extension through hood, ansel system activated along with dry chemical fire extinguisher by cooks to extinguish fire. Secondary water supply established, along with Tower 61 on roof to check hood for extension, none found. Positive pressure ventilation with electric fan, Board of Health notified and, red tag issued to hood. Report was taken, and all units available.

LSFD has been busy with this months shift training over Rapid Assistance Team. Shifts have a half of a day in the classroom going over correct protocol & on the 2nd day going through different practical skills. Firefighters train on proficiency in proper communication when there is a down firefighter. Instructors demonstrate different drags & carries to make sure proper technique is being performed. Operating as a RAT Team on a fire scene demands each member to work in a fluid manner at a high stress time.

        

Task Force One assisted in providing an Ice Rescue class to the Maderia-Indian Hill FD and Indian Hill Rangers (Jan 31, Feb 2, and Feb 4th). Deputy Chief of Special Operations Brian Dowers instructed the class on safe and effective methods at recovering victims who had fallen through the ice into friged waters. "Each year numerous deaths are caused by people venturing out onto the ice, and sometimes those deaths can include emergency responders who are not prepared. (Brian Dowers)" Indian Hill has recently responded to incidents at the Grand Valley were animals had gone onto the ice and owners going out to retrieve them. This type of situation creates the need for this specialized training and equipment. Students were taught proper doning of the cold water immersion suits, rescue rope/knot use, rescue rope throw bags , boat use, types of problems encountered, medical conditions from hypothermia, rescue techniques, self rescue techniques, and many more in classroom and out onto the ice. Channel 12 News Rich Jaffe came out on Feb 4th with his camera crew and his Hi-Def Hemlet Cam, took the class, and is now trained in Ice Rescue. That Special will be aired soon on Channel 12 News.

 

All five Departments making up the Northeast Fire Collaborative took part in Ice Rescue Training during the recent cold weather.  This two part class was yet another chance for the crews to expound their knowledge into a subject that is becoming more of an issue for fire departments across the area.  Children and adults alike venture onto what they think is safe ice and when they fall through, the fire department must come and get them out.
 
Taught by Chief Chris Theders at the Blue Ash Fire Department - members went through a classroom portion where they learned about the proper techniques of ice rescue and watched videos of both correct and incorrect ice rescues in the past.  The second part was held on Sharon Woods Lake, where participants dressed in appropriate gear and put their lessons to work by using the NEFC equipment to rescue each other.

LSFD is currently holding a 6 day Train the Trainer Blue Card session. We currently have officers & firefighters from California, Louisiana, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, & Canada. Departments are finding that Blue Card is making they’re fire ground operations more efficient and they are coming from all over to train here in Loveland. If you are interested in learning more about Blue Card please feel free to contact Deputy Chief Josh Blum at Station 60, 513-792-7330 or by email jblum@safety-center.org.

LPD received a call for a vehicle driving down East Kemper that’s on fire. St 62 dispatched for a vehicle fire in the area of 322 Riverside, LPD reporting on scene with a fully involved car fire, D-1 arrived and reported same with no exposure. E-62 and E-60 arrived, crews pulled hand lines and extinguished fire. Vehicle owner stated he didn’t know that vehicle was on fire until a passerby flagged him down and then he saw smoke and fire coming from the rear of the vehicle, cause is undetermined, vehicle was a total loss, E-62, E-60, D-1 units were on scene.

A full first alarm dwelling fire Wednesday early evening in Mason on 
Olympia Drive off Western Row brought Mason Quint 51, E52, Medic 51 & 
52, Chiefs 52 & 53, Deerfield Ladder 57, E56, Battalion 56, Loveland-
Symmes Tower 61 (lead by Capt Benjamin) and Chief 60-04, Deputy Chief 
Goldfeder.

Mason Paramedic Unit 52 & LSFD Chief 60-04 arrived initially and had 
command prior to the arrival of Mason Battalion 51.

There was heavy smoke on Divisions A, B and C with fire on arrival in 
the kitchen extending into the garage and other parts of the house. 
The fire also was venting out of the rear windows  (Division C) as 
seen in this photo.

The fire was brought under control in approx 10 minutes. There was 1 
occupant with minor burn injuries.

 

On Thursday, January 20th a tractor trailer was heading southbound on interstate 71, roads were completely covered with snow & were extremely slick. The tractor trailer went into a slide toward the median & turned the truck facing the rear of the trailer. D1, R61 & M62 were dispatched along with the highway patrol. There were 2 passengers onboard with no injuries, both were evaluated by M62 crew, pt's signed refusals & M62 went available. R61 shutdown 3 out of 4 lanes on the highway & assisted with the removal of the vehicle and reopening of the highway.

The NEFC held a seminar on "Ethics in the Public Safety Sector" at the Anderson Center on Wednesday January 19th.  Guests speakers Gordon Graham, Chief Jeff Johnson (Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, Oregon), Chief Cliff Jones (retired Tempe, Arizona) and Susan Willeke from the Ohio Ethics Commission discussed various issues facing emergency personnel including:

 

-how social media has drastically changed how we operate,

-can or should emergency personnel accepts "gifts" and where is the line between whats OK and what is not acceptable,

-how to tell if something just isn't right - should I do this or not?

 

The afternoon a panel was assembled to allow the audience to ask questions as well as to give the speaker the opportunity to make other important points.  The panel consisted of:

 

Sheriff Tim Rodenburg, Clermont County,

Judge Brad Greenburg, Hamilton County,

Gordon Graham, retired Calif Highway Patrol

Chief Cliff Jones, Tempe Arizona, retired

Susan Willeke, Ohio Ethics Commission

Doug Duckett, City of Loveland Human Resources

Chief Tim Sabansky, Loveland Police Dept.

Chief Raplh Hammonds, Sharonville Fire Dept.

Ed Humphrey, Clermont County Commissioner

Dispatched for an auto accident possible vehicle fire.  While en route NECC advised vehicle was on fire. D1 arrived on scene found one car vs guardrail with working fire in engine compartment spreading to passenger compartment.  Per Hamilton County Sheriff on scene occupant out of vehicle and in Sheriff Car.  Q63 and M62 arrived on scene blocked scene for safety, Quint 63 pulled 1 3/4" handline to attack fire which now was involving entire vehicle.  Vehicle had also exploded several times from  unknown objects inside vehicle. Q63 also laid into fire hydrant on scene, fire extinguished, and Class "A" foam applied to overhaul vehicle. M62 took one patient refusal from driver of vehicle.  Vehicle overhauled with no extension found, unknown cause of fire due to damage, vehicle released to Hamilton County Sheriff Officer.  Salt truck contacted to responded to salt road due to icy conditions from water being sprayed to extinguish the fire.  Report taken, all units available.

Loveland Symmes Fire Department Ambulance Accreditation One of only three organizations in the State of Ohio

Loveland, OH 1/06/11:  The Loveland Symmes Fire Department is pleased to announce that it has been presented with a certificate of accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (C.A.A.S).  Established in 1990, C.A.A.S is an independent, non-profit corporation with a nine member Board of Directors.  The Board sets policy for the Commission’s operations as well as ongoing monitoring/revision of the Commission’s standards.  The Board includes representatives from the following organizations: American Ambulance Association, American College of Emergency Physicians, International Association of Fire Chiefs, National Association of EMS Physicians, National Association of EMT’s, National Association of State EMS Officials and liaison representation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  To date, only 159 agencies in the nation have completed the accreditation process.  In Ohio, there are only three agencies and of that, Loveland Symmes Fire Department is the only Fire Department. 

A panel of three independent reviewers was onsite in October to review LSFD’s documentation.  There are over 100 standards and include all aspects of ambulance operation.   The areas that are scrutinized include; agency management, financial management, budgeting and strategic planning, relations with outside agencies, mutual aid and disaster coordination, community education and relations, human resources and personnel management, hiring, credentialing, training, problem resolution, performance evaluations, clinical standards, quality improvement, safe operations, risk management, vehicles, equipment, facilities and communications and dispatch.   

Accreditation is process that takes quite a bit of time to achieve.  Loveland Symmes Fire Department was first accredited by CAAS in 1998 and has successfully renewed every three years.  Fire Chief Otto J. Huber said, “I am proud to offer our accreditation as a service to the community we serve.  Everyone wins, our employees, our neighbors and our citizens all benefit from our accreditation.”

For more information about C.A.A.S visit www.caas.org or contact Deputy Chief Andrew Knapp.

Everyone at LSFD hopes you had a safe & happy holiday season. We wanted to put out some safety tips to help you during these cold winter months. Please keep your driveways & walkways clear from ice, we have an increase number of runs due to injuries from falls this time of year. Save yourself some time & grief, if you have elderly neighbors please give them a helping hand with these areas, they may not be able to clean them up themselves. Some of you may have fireplaces, please keep an eye on them as well. Inspect your firebox, flue & chimney annually for creosote accumulation. Keep your hearth cleaned weekly to stop dust & soot buildup, make sure all embers are out before they are removed. Burn only dry, well seasoned wood to minimize dangerous creosote buildup. Never use an abrasive cleanser inside the fireplace, many leave a flammable residue. At some point this winter you may lose power to your home, if you have a generator please use them outside. Generators used indoors will put yourself & your family in jeopardy of CO poisoning. Remember outdoors does not mean your garage. We hope these tips help & we wish everyone a safe 2011.

On December 21, 2010 Rescue-61 was requested to assist on a single car MVA on Columbia Road in Deerfield Township. Crews were updated enroute that the car was in a creekbed & two victims were inside the vehicle.

Upon arrival R61's crew was assigned to provide additional stabilization & to assist in removing the victims from the car. The roof was removed from the vehicle & both patients were extricated and transported to the hospital.

Crews from Deerfield, LSFD, Sharonville, Sycamore & Mason  battled a stubborn fire on Thursday Dec 16th during a heavy snow storm.  Initial reports are that the occupants of the home were still inside at the time of dispatch, however they were assisted out of the home by a passer-by.
http://www.wlwt.com/news/26155904/detail.html

Crews from Deerfield, LSFD, Sharonville, Sycamore & Mason  battled a stubborn fire on Thursday Dec 16th during a heavy snow storm.  Initial reports are that the occupants of the home were still inside at the time of dispatch, however they were assisted out of the home by a passer-by.
 
http://www.wlwt.com/news/26155904/detail.html

Capt. Frye wanted to say a special thanks to FF Ryan Lucas for going above and beyond for an elderly couple.  We were dispatched to first respond in our district today with Medic 62 for an elderly male ill, upon our arrival, it was apparent the elderly couple was not able to clear any snow from their sidewalk from the snow storm.  Capt. Frye asked FF Lucas to grab a shovel to at least clear a path on the sidewalk for the Medic Unit and their cot prior to their arrival, so we didn’t track snow inside the home and eliminate a possibility of us slipping during transport to the medic unit.  The remainder of our crew went inside for to care for the pt.  After packaging the pt Capt. Frye went outside to see if he could lend a hand to Ryan, when he quickly saw that Ryan had not only cleared the entire sidewalk but also was just finishing the driveway.   While Ryan was working on the driveway a neighbor came over with a shovel and had started helping him.  Ryan also made sure the Wife of the Pt’s car was cleared off and ready to go. Nice job Ryan & continue the good work!

Tower 61 arrived on scene to find fire on the Alpha side of the structure on the exterior side of the house extending up towards the roof.  Captain Frye had command, with Chief Huber in Operations.  In the Bitter cold  Crews from LSFD, Sharonville, Blue Ash, Sycamore and Mason were able to make a quick knock down on the fire before any fire extended into the structure.  Crew overhauled and were able to get the family back in their home within an hour.

http://www.local12.com/news/local/story/Crews-Battle-Symmes-Township-House-Fire/HbD_eebhPUC37RkxkAcNCw.cspx

E62 were out earlier for a special young mans birthday. Everyone who attended the party was able to look through the engine & sit in the cab. All of the kids received hats, we hope you had a Happy Birthday!