Palm Beach County Fire Rescue News

Media Attention for Flood Response Trailer

On Saturday August 23, journalists from News 12 and The Sun-Sentinel came to ST 42 to see the Volunteer's Flood Response Trailer. Recent flooding from tropical storm Fay has peaked interest in how emergency responders would react to such flooding. The media was briefed on the capabilities and role of this trailer, which is part of the apparatus provided by the Volunteers to support the Career Firefighters of PBC Fire Rescue.

PBCFR provided a cargo trailer that the volunteers would modify to meet their needs. Using donated items and funds, the volunteers customized the trailer and purchased several small boats. In addition, donated funds were used to purchase safety equipment, motors and a host of other items that could be used for flood response.

The trailer is completely self sufficient and is towed by a Ford Excursion. It presently houses (1) 16 foot inflatable boat, (1) 12 foot inflatable boat, (1) 6 foot inflatable boat and (2) 16 foot jon boats. It also houses the motors, generator, and all safety equipment.

This trailer can be deployed anywhere it is needed and is operated by the Volunteer Battalion. It's primary purpose is to get County Firefighters and equipment to those in need in flooded areas, but can also be used to evacuate personnel from the flooded area.

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Story and photos by Kevin Rattey
Posted on August 23rd , 2008.

Crew and Apparatus Familiarization at Station 17

On August 14, 2008, the "Outpost" at station 17B and crew Lieutenant N. Gerry, Driver Operator S. Newell and Firefighter/Paramedic N. Ryder hosted a Crew and Apparatus Familiarization with West Palm Beach E6, R8, Palm Beach Gardens R63 and E63 and Riveria Beach E4.

The purpose of the familiarization was for neighboring fire station crews from other departments to meet and become familiar with each other's crews, apparatus and equipment.

Fire Rescue crews spent time going through each department's engine and discussing the equipment used, such as large diameter supply hose, adapters, SCBA's, RIC bag's, and extrication equipment. Crews also discussed the use of RIC bag's/SCBA's, guidelines and procedures between departments.

Everyone had a great time and agreed to make this a yearly event!

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Story and photos by Lieutenant Nick Gerry
Posted on August 20th , 2008.

Station 81 Puts New Rigs in Service

Palm Beach Int'l Airport, in West Palm Beach receives fire protection and emergency medical services from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 81. Recently, Station 81's service was enhanced by the acquisition of three new vehicles, most significantly, the station's first air stair truck.

Air Stair 81 is based on a 2008 Ford F550 chassis with an elevating platform built by Stinar. The new rig allows firefighters to access the cabin doors on large jetliners without having to depend on the airline companies to have one readily available. The truck can be used in a variety of cases including, but not limited to, providing access to firefighters during a fire, providing a safe means of egress to passengers during "hot fueling" operations, providing a safe platform to work on if needed to ventilate or force entry into the plane. It can even be used when the United States President and other dignitaries come to town.

Equipped with a Yamaha EF2800i gas powered generator and several flood lights, as well as a gas powered SuperVac ventilation fan, the unit will provide a versatile service to the airport.

Additionally, a new position was recently created employing a captain in charge of each 24-hour shift. The new unit, designated Airport Captain 1, drives a new 2008 Ford F150 equipped with all of the necessary incident command equipment and airport communications equipment.

Finally, Escort 1, a truck used primarily to escort firefighters and others to the fire station located in the middle of the airfield as well as provide support on medical or other types of calls, has recently placed a 2008 Ford F350 in service. This truck carries a variety of equipment including fire extinguishers, medical gear and absorbent pads.

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Story and picture by Mark V. Carr
Posted on August 16th , 2008.

Two Alarm Fire in Royal Palm Beach

A two alarm fire in Royal Palm Beach was very challenging to crews on the afternoon of Thursday, August 14th. A lightning strike on a ten-unit apartment building spread rapidly due to its wood frame construction. Another factor was the lack of firewalls in the building because in the 70's when it was built, firewalls were not part of the building/fire code. Crews made a stop at the third connected apartment by getting ahead of the fire and quickly pulling drywall from ceilings and walls. The end result was three fire-damaged units upstairs and three water-damaged units down stairs. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians, and a number of dogs plus one cat were rescued.

Some of the units on scene included: Q29, R29, E28, R28, Chief2, R41b, E20, E26, EMS9, R21, E21, BC2, PI1, DC2, E25, EMS10, BC9, LA24, IV6, R23b, E34, E46, E22.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on August 15th , 2008.

Residential Structure Fire in Battalion 9

On August 7, 2008, crews from Station 34, Q29, E32, R25, E25, E33, DC 9, EMS9, BC2, BC9, DC 10, investigators and the volunteers were dispatched to a residential structure fire in Station 30's zone. Instructor Jon Ferguson, who was teaching Driver Candidate School in Okeeheele Park, called dispatch to report a large column of smoke visible from Okeeheelee Park.

E34 reported heavy smoke and flames on arrival; two cars parked in the driveway and the garage were involved. Fire extended into the attic and burned through the roof. Although the fire was contained to the garage, the entire structure suffered from smoke and/or water damage.

Firefighters were challenged by the heat index that was reported at 109°F, yet there were no injuries.

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Story and photos by Captains Houston Park and Doug Watson
Posted on August 12th , 2008.

Vacant House Fire on July 21

On July 21, 2008 at 01:55, companies of the 3rd battalion, E23, E24, E33, Q29, R24, DC10, EMS 10 were dispatched to a structure fire on Elmhust Rd/ Military Tr.

E23 arrived to find a vacant house fully involved in fire. This is the 3rd time in a year that this house has caught fire. Companies operated defensively with no injuries reported.

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Story and photos by Driver/Operator Jon Ferguson
Posted on August 11th , 2008.

Barn Fire in Homeland

A fire broke out in a large shed/barn combination at a residence in Homeland at 5635 Reynolds Rd around 9:53 am. One of the owners evacuated the their three horses before they were injured. A column of smoke could be seen miles away. No one was injured but two firefighters were hospitalized for heat related issues. Both were released later in the day. A second alarm was called due to the size of the structure and to cover exposures.

Units on scene included E32, R32, Q29, E27, E48, EMS9, DC9, PI1, BC9, DC3, T21, E25, EMS3, BC3, B890, IV6, IV1, B48, Ops2, LA24, RP30, E27, B27

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on August 8th , 2008.

Firefighter for the Day

7-year old Stefano Villegas will have a great time telling his classmates at Verde Elementary what he did on his summer break. Recently, the Girl Scouts of Palm Glades Council held a luncheon and silent auction to raise money for their chapter. One of the items being auctioned was a certificate signed by Chief Brice granting authorization to visit any fire station and become a firefighter for the day. Fittingly, Stefano's aunt District Chief M.C. Madigan, won the bidded item. Chief Madigan chose Station No. 55 "The Funhouse" C-shift to host the young junior firefighter.

After a hardy pizza lunch, Stefano went right to work assisting crews with the daily station chores. He was given a full tour of the firehouse and rode in both the Engine and Rescue Companies. Stefano also helped crews decide where to mount special safety equipment aboard Engine Co. 55. The firefighters were impressed with Stefano's work ethic and decided to award him with a Funhouse Challenge Coin and T-shirt making him an official member of the Funhouse.

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Story and photos by Lt. Sean Pamplona
Posted on August 5th , 2008.

PBCFR Flight Nurse Tom Reyes Receives National Certification

The Department is pleased to announce that one of its flight nurses has attained a nationally recognized credential in flight nursing. Tom Reyes, RN recently passed the Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) examination administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.

The CFRN credential represents a commitment of the individual nurse, as well as the program that supports CFRN credentialing, to quality state-of-the-art emergency care. Certified Flight Registered nursing incorporates a wide spectrum of patient care that requires highly specialized skills and extensive knowledge, as well as the unique ability to care for all ages of patients that have illnesses or injuries ranging from the very minor to extremely critical. The CFRN examination evaluates the nurse's knowledge in the areas of clinical pathophysiology, patient care management, and professional issues, environment, toxicology, shock, trauma, and medical emergency care.

Tom has been with the department since 2004 and has been a full time Flight Nurse since 2006.

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Story and photos by Capt. Al Borroto
Posted on July 25th , 2008.

Accident Puts Vehicle Inside Coffee Shop in Royal Palm Beach

At about 3 p.m. on Monday, July 21, customers and workers at the Chevron Extra Mile convenience store at 10175 Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach were shocked when a woman accidentally drove her car into the store. No one in the store was hurt when the errant driver plowed up onto the sidewalk and through the front glass doors stopping just as the car hit a coffee and beverage island inside the store.

Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue's Engine 28 and Rescue 29 in Royal Palm Beach secured the store and assessed the driver of the car. She was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Damage to the store was minor with no structural damage, allowing it to be reopened and repaired by late the next day.

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Story and photos by Mark V. Carr
Posted on July 23rd , 2008.

Difficult Bridge Rescue in West Boynton

On Tuesday, July 15th, Special Operations and crews from Station 41 assisted with a rescue call that took over 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete. A driver somehow managed to drive his Buick onto an aluminum footbridge and was trapped. When units arrived they found a somewhat disoriented individual in his car with an aluminum railing through the windshield, narrowly missing the man's head.

It took a lot of innovative thinking and planning to finally rescue the man without putting any additional strain of the heavily damaged bridge. The water in the canal below was at least 8 feet or more in depth. Boynton Beach Fire Department's 3-month old, 100 ft. Sutphen aerial platform and a heavy wrecker from Beck's Towing assisted with the rescue.

All local television stations and both newspapers were onscene for most of the rescue. The positive publicity we received through the efforts of Special Ops 34 and the other crews on scene was priceless.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia
Posted on July 16th , 2008.

Vehicle Accident at Forest Hill and Congress

A serious vehicle accident occurred this past Saturday, July 12th, at the intersection of Forest Hill Blvd and Congress Ave. Our Special Operations crew was requested to assist with extrication and one trauma alert patient was transported to St. Mary's Trauma Center.

Units on scene included E39, R39, R33, DC3, R36, SO34, E34, R34, DC3 and EMS3.

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Story by Capt. Don Delucia, photos courtesy of Roger Brand
Posted on July 16th , 2008.

Residential Structure Fire in Palm Springs

On July 15th, 2008 at approximately 0030 hours, E39 was dispatched to 3140 Garden Lane in Sunshine Village Mobile Home Park, Palm Springs. They arrived to find a mobile home fully involved with fire. Palm Springs Police Department units on scene reported the mobile home was vacan. E39 began knockdown until E31 arrived, established command, and provided water supply. There were no hydrants inside the mobile home park. R31 provided exposure protection on side B. E36 made partial entry on side C/D. The fire was knocked down after about 20 minutes.

This incident was a clear example of the positive working relationship and cooperation that has resulted from the partnership and closest unit response agreement.

The State Fire Marshal determined the cause to be arson and collected evidence. It was later determined that the mobile home was in fact vacant and owned by the mobile home park. It was scheduled for demolition at a later date.

Units on scene: E31, R31, E39, E36, DC3, EMS3

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Story and photos by Kevin Higgs-Pinkston, CO/FF/PM
Posted on July 16th , 2008.

Crash in Belle Glade

BELLE GLADE - At approximately 6:30am, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue stations 73, 74, and the Special Operations Team from Station 34 responded to a head-on crash just east of Belle Glade. Crews arrived to find a car vs. pickup truck collision with the drivers of both vehicles trapped. The driver of the pickup truck was able to be quickly extricated and was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. It took the crews over an hour to extricate the driver of the other vehicle, who was flown to the trauma center.

The crash is being investigated by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on July 9th , 2008.

Truck Trailer Fire at Affron Plumbing

This July 1 fire was determined to have been started by a homeless person. Cardboard boxes were set on fire and it spread to a mattress that was under the trailer.

Units on scene included E36, R36, Q29, E39, E31, DC3, R39, BC3, EMS10, Inv 5, LA 24 and R31.

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Story and photos by Pam Summers
Posted on July 7th , 2008.

Crash on US 27 Near Lake Harbor

On Thursday, June 26, 2008, at approximately 11:43 am crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to a single vehicle rollover crash on US 27 just west of Lake Harbor. A Hendry County EMS ambulance was transporting a patient from another call when they came across this crash first, and began treatment.

The crews found the driver fatally injured and the passenger, a young boy, had crawled through one of the windows. After the Palm Beach County units arrived, they took over care of the young boy. The boy was airlifted via TraumaHawk to the trauma center.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on June 27th , 2008.

Truck vs Tractor East of Belle Glade

A little after 8:00 am on Tuesday, June 24, 2008, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to a pickup truck vs. farm tractor just east of Belle Glade. Crews arrived to find the driver of the pickup pinned inside of the truck with the passenger on the ground. The tractor operator was satnding along- side of the crash. The driver of the pickup was extricated and flown to a local trauma center, as well as the tractor operator. The passenger of the pickup truck was transported to a local hospital.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol.

Units on scene: E73 E73B R73 R74 DC7 EMS7.

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Story by Capt. Craig Prusansky, photos by Lt. Scott Berkowitz and Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on June 24th , 2008.

Fire in Canal Point Elementary School

On June 17th at 0236 hrs, Battalion 7 and Battalion 2 units were dispatched to a commercial structure fire at the old Canal Point Elementary school. When units arrived they found a two story abandoned school fully involved.

Access was difficult and the water pressure was extremely low, making it extremely challenging for crews to extinguish. Water was shuttled from State Market Road and defensive operations were utilized. There were several collapse zones within the structure and the roof ultimately made a pancake collapse into the building.

Crews worked on scene for over 5 hrs.

Units on scene were E72, R72, E73, E73B, T72, T21, Q29, EMS7, DC7, BC7, IV2.

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Story by Battalion Chief Mike Arena; Photos by Battalion Chief Mike Arena, FF/PM Michael Casanova and Investigator Tom Fucci
Posted on June 17th , 2008.

Motor Vehicle Accident: Semi Pins SUV

At approximately 0928hrs, E74, R74, DC7 and EMS7 responded to a motor vehicle accident at 2000 S Main St. Upon arrival E74 found a semi had pinned a Ford Explorer up against a guardrail with the driver still inside with injuries.

PM L. Grau climbed inside and assessed the patient's injuries which he found to be minor. DC7 assumed command and E74 began extrication.

The Explorer looked worse than the situation presented, and it was a simple extrication. After a portion of the guardrail was removed, the front and back doors were removed and the patient was extricated and transported to GGH. The driver of the semi had minor injuries and refused further treatment.

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Story and photos by Rescue Capt. T. McCabe
Posted on June 13th , 2008.

Cropduster Training in Belle Glade

BELLE GLADE - On Monday, June 2, 2008, crews from Station 73 attended an aircraft familiarization session at Air Crop Care, located at the Belle Glade State Airport. Willy Lee, a pilot with Air Crop Care, discussed the Air Tractor AT-502 cropduster aircraft with the crews. The training included how the aircraft operated, hazards of this particular aircraft, and suggested procedures when rescuing a pilot.

The Air Tractor AT-502 is a turboprop aircraft capable of carrying 500 gallons of product which can either be sprayed through under-wing nozzles or dumped all at once out of the hopper. Most cropdusters in western Palm Beach County are this type of aircraft.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on June 3rd , 2008.

Rollover with Extrication on US 27 Near Okeelanta

OKEELANTA � At approximately 12:30 pm on Monday, June 2, 2008, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue station 74 responded to a report of a rollover vehicle crash with entrapment on US Highway 27, several miles south of the Okeelanta Sugar Mill, or about 15 miles south of the City of South Bay.

Crews arrived to find a single vehicle that had rolled over several times, landing upright with the driver trapped inside. The crews extricated the patient using the Hurst Tool ("Jaws of Life"). The patient was transported to a local Trauma Center via TraumaHawk. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.

Units on scene: E74, R74, DC7, EMS7, TH1.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on June 3rd , 2008.

Mobile Home Fire

7272 42nd Way (off of Blue Heron Blvd west of I-95): Mobile Home Fire dispatched at 0738 Saturday May 31.

Units responding were: TR61, R63, E63, E68, E17, T21, E23, DC6, EMS6

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Photos by Kevin Higgs-Pinkston, A-Shift Supervisor, Palm Springs Fire Rescue
Posted on June 2nd , 2008.

Structure Fire in Belle Glade

On Tuesday, May 13, 2008, BC7, DC7, E73, E73B, E74, Q29, R73, R74 and Investigator 4 responded to a residential structure fire in Belle Glade. Units arrived to find heavy smoke showing.

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Posted on June 2nd , 2008.

Brush Fire in Pahokee Threatens Junk Yard

A small brush fire near Glades Drive and 87th Place North in Pahokee didn't take long to be whipped by high winds into a fast-moving, 5-acre threat on May 12th. Units from Station 72 in Pahokee as well as Station 73 in Belle Glade and Station 21 in Loxahatchee fought the afternoon fire involving sugar cane, brush, old auto parts, tires and other debris well into the evening and were back on scene the next day continuing mop up.

Bordered by railroad tracks on the west and an apartment complex to the south, the fire moved rapidly toward an abandoned strip mall to the east and a junk yard to the east and north. Poor access and thick smoke hampered firefighters' efforts to contain the blaze. Large volumes of water were put on the fire stopping its forward progress just before it reached a large metal building housing used auto parts and machinery. Junk cars were moved by forklift out of harms way as firefighters fought to contain the fire.

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Story and photos by Mark Carr
Posted on May 14th , 2008.

Commercial Structure Fire in West Boynton

A fire at the Vienna Fliar Hair Styling Salon in Western Boynton the evening of May 6, brought 8 units and some 20 firefighters to a strip shopping center around 9:40 PM. One unit occupied by the Vienna Flair Hair Styling salon had had a small fire which put out a fair amount of smoke that eventually entered a number of adjoining units and caused the evacuation of a small pub that was also in the center. Damage was kept to the unit of origin and the source of the fire is under investigation.

Units on scene included E41, Q47, E46, E42, R41, EMS4, DC4, BC4, PI1 and IV4 (Farill).

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Story and Photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on May 7th , 2008.

House Fire in South Bay

SOUTH BAY - At approximately 7:30am on Tuesday, May 6, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 "A" Shift responded to a reported house fire in the City of South Bay. Crews arrived to find smoke and fire coming from one of the rear bedrooms. Crews were able to confine the fire to the room of origin, but the rest of the house suffered severe smoke damage. The residents were not home during the fire, and the American Red Cross is handling their accomodations. No one was injured during the fire and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73, E73B, E74, R73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and Photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 7th , 2008.

Car Fire in the Glades

BELLE GLADE - At approximately 6:10 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 "C" Shift responded to a reported car fire on Hatton Highway between US Highway 98 and State Road 80 in the rural sugar cane fields east of Belle Glade. The smoke plume could be seen for several miles. Crews arrived to find a Ford Explorer fully engulfed in fire. The crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly after arriving, but the vehicle was a total loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73B, R73, EMS7

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Story and Photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Abandoned Building Fire in Belle Glade

BELLE GLADE - At approximately 8:30 am on May 3, 2008, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 "A" Shift responded to a reported fire in an abandoned building in the southwest section of the City of Belle Glade. Crews arrived to find smoke and fire coming from one of the units on the ground floor. A pile of debris inside of the abandoned apartment was on fire, and was rapidly extinguished by the crews. No one was injured during the fire. The fire is being labeled as "suspicious" and the cause is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73, E73B, E74, R73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Bryant Sugar Mill Fire

All units from Battalion 7 responded to the Bryant Sugar Mill for a Commercial Structure Fire on Saturday 05/03/2008 at 1809 hrs. The entire sugar mill is currently under demolition and has had several fires there recently. The fires have been started by the sparks of the torches used to dismantle the structure. While enroute, station 72 units reported heavy black smoke from a distance. E72 arrived on scene and reported a 4-story commercial structure with a working fire and 4 stories involved with fire. Since the site is under demolition, all of the hydrants have been turned off and were no longer in service. The engines on scene worked together and were able to shuttle water to supply the attack lines. The fire is fueled by "baggasse" which is fine particles (like saw dust) leftover from the processing of sugar cane into sugar. The structure doesn't have any walkable floors so the fire was extinguished from a defensive mode outside.

Thanks to units E72, R72, T72, E73, E73b, R73, E74, T21, Q29, BC7, EMS7 and the Incident Commander, District Chief Gary Burroughs DC7, an effective and safe fire attack was done without any injuries.

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Story by Rescue Lt. Tony Faso, R72. Photos by EMS-7 Craig Prusansky, Rescue Lt. Tony Faso and others on scene.
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Fire in Brazilian Court Draws Mutual Aid

Three local fire departments came together to work hand-in-hand to extinguish a fire in a mansion in the Town of Palm Beach on May 5th. Just after noon, reports of a fire in the 400 block of Brazilian Court were received by the town's dispatch system. The fire quickly exceeded the capabilities of first-in units and mutual aid was requested. The City of West Palm Beach's Fire Department responded with several units as well as Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. Local police cordoned off the street as a large plume of smoke visible for miles attracted onlookers from all over.

Within a couple of hours, firefighters from the three agencies were able to bring the fire under control but not before the house was rendered a total loss. One dog was saved from the burning house but news reports say that several others were lost. News reports put the loss at over 5-million dollars.

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Story and photos by Mark Carr
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Fire at Elbridge Gale Elementary School

On Friday, April 25, units responded to Elbridge Gale Elementary School for a reported fire in the kitchen. Upon arrival they found a fire in one of the kitchen's stoves along with a sprinkler activation. The fire was quickly brought under control.

Units on scene included: E25, Q29, E27, E20, R25, DC2, EMS2, and BC2.

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Story and photos by Lt. Shaw
Posted on April 28th , 2008.

Stations 31, 47 C-Shift to the Rescue

The local United Cerebral Palsey Foundation office called Fire Rescue with a request: They were located in a building on 2nd Avenue North in station 31's area. They had a flagpole that was inoperative and asked our assistance in putting it back into operation. Some 50 individuals with cerebral palsey visit the center daily and wanted to see a flag flying outside their center.

Lt. Drew Kirshner and his station 31 crew, along with Lt. Pete McGrane and his crew from station 47, showed up Wednesday evening, April 23rd, with a plan of attack. By 8 PM, not only did they have the pole in operation with flags flying, but were able to do some Stokes basket rescue training off the roof of the building (much to the delight of the 20+ individuals who stayed and watched.) Needless to say, the Foundation was ecstatic. Compliments to 31 and 47 C-Shift.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 24th , 2008.

Car Fire in Station 24's Area

Station 24 responded to a vehicle fire on April 11th, 2008 just before noon. A Volvo 960's engine compartment was fully involved, the fire was impinging on the Ford Explorer that was parked next to it. As the action photos taken by a bystander show, R24 and E24's crews initiated a fast, aggressive attack and "choked the red devil into submission" with ease.

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Story by Lt. L. Doelling
Posted on April 22nd , 2008.

Head-on Crash on SR 441

Fire Rescue units were dispatched to a reported traffic accident Friday evening, April 11th, at 11:07 PM. When they arrived they found a two vehicle head-on crash on US 441 just South of Boynton Beach Bl. Witnesses stated a vehicle was traveling South in the North bound lane just prior to the accident. One victim was pinned and the Special Operations crew along with others had to cut the vehicle apart to free the victim's legs. In all, three patients were sent to the Delray trauma center, two by ground and one by air.

Units on scene included R47, Q47, EMS4, DC4, E41, R41, EMS3, Splops, TH1, E48, E34, DC9 and PI1.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 14th , 2008.

House Fire in Madison Green

Around 9:45 am, dispatch received a 911 call from a homeowner at 1261 Gembrook Ct in Wyndham at Madison Green who reported smoke in her home. Arriving units began investigating and eventually found an active fire in an upstairs bedroom. Crews contained the fire to the room of origin. Damage to the home is expected to exceed $200,000. No one was injured.

Units on scene included E21, Q29, E22, E26, R28, EMS2, DC2, BC8, PI1, CAT2, IV5, LA34, DC10 and E920.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 14th , 2008.

Structure Fire on Purdy Lane

On Monday, March 31, fire broke out in an apartment at 500 Village Green Circle 2, Bldg A. The 12:48 fire brought units from Palm Springs and Palm Beach County and included the mutual aid response of a ladder from West Palm Fire. A number of units had smoke in them on the third floor and the building had to be evacuated. Palm Springs Fire and the State Fire Marshall's office are investigating the cause.

Units on scene included E39, Q29, E33, E36, R36, DC3, EMS10, DC39, L5 and AT13.

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Story by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO and photos by Roger Brand
Posted on April 2nd , 2008.

Fuel Truck vs Tug with Luggage Cart

At 12:09 on April 1st, 2008, the crew of "B" Shift under the command of Captain Abramovitz responded to a Signal 4 involving a fuel truck carrying 5400 gallons of Jet A fuel. The fuel truck had collided with a tug and baggage cart on the airline ramp in front of gate C7. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported via BLS Ambulance to the hospital for evaluation.
No other injuries were reported.

A minor fuel spill of gasoline from a ruptured fuel tank and fuel line on the tug was caused by the fuel truck running over the rear of the tug.

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Stories and photos by John Boike
Posted on April 1st , 2008.

Busy Week in the Glades

It was another busy week out west. Here is some information about three of the calls units responded to:

On Sunday, March 23rd, units responded to a single vehicle accident. While learning how to drive, the driver lost control and crashed through a fence and hit a tree. Occupants were trapped by the fence and poles wrapped around the vehicle. E73 and R73 personel cut fence and post to gain access to the two patients in the vehicle.

On March 26th, BC7, BC9, DC7, DC9, E73, E73B, R73, R73B, SPECIAL OPS 34, E34, R34 AND Trauma Hawk responded to a vehicle accident involving a dump truck on SR 80 AND SR 98. First-arriving units found vehicle with heavy damage and entrapment. Units worked for about 40 minutes to free the victim, who was transported by Trauma Hawk to nearest trauma facility. Great job done by all. (For more photos of this event, please click here.

On Saturday, March 29th, BC4, DC7, E74, E73, E73B, R73, R73B, Q29, Light & Air 24 and Investigator 4 responded to a residential structure fire in South Bay, units arrive to find heavy smoke coming from the residence. Heavy fire was found in master bedroom and attic in a large portion of the residence. Two occupants were treated and transported to a nearby hospital.

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Stories and photos from Scott Berkowitz
Posted on March 31st , 2008.

Dump Truck vs. Van

On Wednesday, March 26th, 2008, at approximately 13:00 hours, units of Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Battalion 7 were dispatched to a signal 4 at State Road 80 and U.S. Highway 98. Initial reports advised a dump truck and a mini-van collided at the location. Reports from PBSO at the scene reporting heavy entrapment facilitated dispatch to send Trauma Hawk along with a full Special Operations response.

Units operated for over an hour to remove the female driver utilizing dash roll and roof removal techniques. The driver was airlifted to St. Mary's Hospital and a female passenger was taken to Palms West Hospital. The driver of the dump truck was not injured.

Units on scene were E73, E73B, R73, R73B, EMS7 DC7, E34, R34, SO34, DC9 and Batt7

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Story and photos by Artie Werkle
Posted on March 27th , 2008.

PBCFR Pipes and Drums Fund Raising Events for Vazquez Family

On St. Patrick's Day, members of Palm Beach County Firefighter's Pipes and Drums took part in a fund-raising effort for Lieutenant Rafael Vazquez's family. Several Irish establishments around Mizner Park, Boca Raton, and one in Boynton Beach were gracious enough to allow the band to play and collect donations towards the fund. At one point in the evening, Michelle Vazquez and her children joined the Pipes and Drums in Boca and actually played with the band by banging on the bass drum; they did an excellent job keeping the beat!!

Donations towards the fund are still being accepted. Checks can be made out to the Firefighters Benevolent and write the name "Vazquez" in the memo section at the bottom left of the check.

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From Captain Doug Watson
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Motorcyclist Severely Injured in Royal Palm Beach Mishap

A mid-morning crash involving only a motorcycle critically injured its operator on March 24th. The crash happened in the southbound lanes of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., just north of Okeechobee Boulevard in Royal Palm Beach. Engine 28 was the initial responding unit and was assisted initially by a passing fire inspector and an off-duty firefighter from Station 42. Battalion 2 Chief Nigel Baker oversaw the activities as the incident commander. Rescue 21 was dispatched to transport the patient, who was not wearing a motorcycle helmet, to the trauma center. TraumaHawk Air Ambulance could not respond due to fog.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Station 28 Provides Easter Fun for Local Orphanage

Children in orphanages are often forgotten when it comes to the fun associated with various holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Crews at Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 28 in Royal Palm Beach saw to it that that wasn't the case for the children of Kid's Sanctuary Orphanage. The brainchild of Rescue Lieutenant Mike DelRossi, an Easter egg hunt and games were hosted by the crews of Rescue 28, Engine 28 and District Chief 2.

Using candy-filled eggs donated by nearby First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach, crews, along with Lt. DelRossi's family, hid the eggs throughout the many rooms of the home. After the egg hunt, despite a light rain, crews and kids alike moved outside for some games including a relay race involving carrying an egg on a spoon, and a water balloon toss. The balloon toss was a hit as both firefighters and kids got soaked by bursting balloons.

Lt. DelRossi took it upon himself to purchase prizes for the kids using contributions from each of the crew members. All in all, everyone had a great time � including the big kids of Station 28's B-shift.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

2 Injured as Car Collides with Fuel Tanker

Two people received minor injuries on March 24th after their small car came into unplanned contact with a tractor-trailer hauling 8,000 gallons of fuel. The location of the incident was Belvedere Road just east of State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach. Quint 29 and Rescue 29 responded from their station nearby and Rescue 23 responded from training in the area. There was no fuel leak or fire as a result of the accident. Both occupants of the car were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. The truck driver was not injured.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade

On March 14, 2008, of the dept.'s Pipes and Drums marched in the 184th edition of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, Georgia. This is the 2nd biggest parade behind New York City. The members marched with our friends from Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums from Long Island, New York. It was a 3-mile long parade with over 200,000 merrymakers watching from the sidleines. It was a great time...Members of the band that attended were Capt. Doug Watson, Lt. John Fischer, D/O Jon Ferguson and FF Khristy Osment.
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Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Boca Woods Hosts Firefighter Appreciation Dinner

On March 6th, personnel from Battalion 5 attended a community gathering in their honor held at the Boca Woods Country Club in western Boca Raton. The idea for this event was borne from members of a committee that was created to show appreciation for the local fire station (51) who routinely runs calls to this community.

The idea for this event was conceptualized months ago as the group called "Friends of Fire Station #51" brain-stormed about what else they could do for the station after already having purchased a large screen HD LCD TV for the folks. Soon, the idea of having an old-fashioned, community-based fundraiser came to life.

The evening started out with some opening remarks by our gracious hosts, followed by remarks from Chief Hernandez, who shared the events of the tragedy of Monday involving Lt. Ray Vazquez. A moment of silence was held out of respect for him, his wife and children. The introduction was followed by light-hearted talk about the history of fire-rescue services offered in the western Boca Raton communities over the last 35 or so years and covered the progressive increases in personnel and equipment over that time span.

The evening was a huge success, with a grateful and pleasant, sold-out crowd. Personnel were wooed and fussed over throughout the night, hors 'douvres, a pre-dinner reception, and then we moved onward to the main room for music, conversation and yet more fellowship with the very gracious sponsors/residents.

A great meal followed with the gracious crowd showing the visiting personnel from the station their most humbling and gracious appreciation for responses to their community.

In attendance were personnel from all 3 shifts at station 51 along with each respective Company Officer, as well as the on duty District Chief Tom Tolbert, EMS Captain Manny Mayo and Battalion Chief Joe Hernandez.

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Story by BC Hernandez, photos by FF/PM Robert Cuenca
Posted on March 12th , 2008.

Crash on US 27 Near Okeelanta

At about 12:30 pm on March 4, 2008, Crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue stations 73 and 74 responded to a crash on US 27 near Okeelanta in western Palm Beach County. The units arrived to find a tractor-trailer and a dump truck involved in a crash in the northbound lanes. The driver of one of the trucks sustained only minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The cause of the crash is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol.

Units on scene: E74, R73, DC7, EMS7.

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusansky
Posted on March 12th , 2008.

Pilot Safe After Belly-Landing at PBIA

Being in the right place, at the right time, allowed me to witness a plane crash as it happened at Palm Beach Int'l Airport (PBIA). While eating lunch and watching airplanes on the south side of the airport on March 5, a Piper PA-24 Comanche airplane flew overhead to my left as it made its short-final approach to runway 31. Noticing that the aircraft's wheels were not down, I picked up my camera and started clicking off the shutter. As the plane continued toward what appeared to be imminent doom at the end of the runway, other pilots nearby could be heard on the aircraft radio alerting others that the plane's wheels were still in the up position. Just after crossing the main runway, runway 27R, the plane touched down, bounced back up and then hit the ground again. In a cloud of smoke and dust, the plane skidded for several hundred feet before skidding sideways to a stop at the edge of the runway.

Within seconds, the fire-rescue radio blared the report of an Alert III, an actual crash, to Battalion 8 Fire-Rescue crews located inside PBIA. Seconds later, the monstrous, yellow, aircraft rescue trucks pulled out of the station and made their way out to the disabled aircraft. At the time of the crash, firefighters were already handling three other calls - medical emergencies - in the airport's terminal yet a full contingent of rescuers was still able to meet the needs of the downed aircraft. On scene, firefighters under the command of Airport Captain Fred Abramovitz were relieved to find that there was no fire, no fuel spill and no injuries sustained in the belly landing. Crews stood by as investigators and airport officials surveyed the scene and interviewed the pilot in order to ascertain the cause of the crash. Runway 31 remained closed until the plane could be towed to a ramp off the airfield.

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Story and photos by Mark Carr
Posted on March 6th , 2008.

Motorcycle Accident at Lantana Rd and Lyons Rd

Around 4:30 pm on February 2, units from Station 46 and 48 responded to a reported motorcycle vs. SUV collision at Lantana Rd and Lyons Rd. Callers also were advising that the motorcycle was on fire. When crews arrived they found a cyclist down with severe injuries and a fully involved motorcycle. The patient was Trauma Alerted to Delray Community Hospital and the cycle fire was quickly extinguished.

Units on the call included: Trauma Hawk, R46, E48, Q47, DC4, EMS 4.

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Story by Captain Don Delucia, PIO; photos by Lt. Millstone
Posted on February 12th , 2008.

Volunteer Battalion Receives New Logo

The Volunteer Battalion now has an officially approved logo thanks to the efforts of Volunteer Lt. Bill Senyshyn. As project manager, he decided to contact The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and meet with Paul-M. Kane, instructor of Graphic Design and Advertising and creative director for Artemis Design Group. Christine David, Dept. Chair of Advertising and Graphic Design founded Artemis Design Group - a full service advertising and design agency that doubles as a prestigious Honors Program within the Art Institute curriculum.

Three honor students volunteered for this project and were challenged to create a design that was unique, and exciting. Several outstanding logos were submitted to the Battalion. After the logos were submitted, the general membership voted on the design that best suited the organization. Various members of PBC Fire-Rescue were also asked to vote. The results were definitive and a clear winner emerged.

The winning logo was created by Sara Borda Bossana, an honor student. Ms. Bossana was awarded a cash prize and plaque in appreciation for her winning design from the Volunteers. The logo will make its official debut on the apparatus at the end of this month.

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Story by Battalion Chief Kevin Rattey
Posted on February 6th , 2008.

Quint Climbs to the Top with Hot Shots Initiative

Quint 29 B shift under the direction of Lt. Bill Morris were at a training evolution recently at Okeeheelee Park. Apparently while on break they noticed a familiar "on-looker" off in the distance. It was 4-year old little Nicholas visiting the park with his family. Mom decided to take Nick to the park with his two sisters. Lt. Morris decided to take advantage of the Polaroid cams that were placed on the truck early last year since this opportunity was exactly what the Hot Shots Program was designed for.

As a reminder, The Customer Service Team launched an initiative called The Hot Shots Program where Phase I included the delivery of Polaroid cameras to all the Engines. The intent of the program was to wave little Joey over from the Publix parking lot anticipating that he'd like to see the BRT (Big Red Truck). In doing so, a red plastic fire helmet is donned with a smiling child outside the window of one of our engines so that the Polaroid may capture this moment for the family. The snapshot finds its way to the refrigerator door back home and PBCFR gets the credit for brightening up the week for some would-be shopper in the neighborhood.

So the crew grabbed the camera, which was out of film. No problem, since we're at a training event ... they search another engine on-scene for their camera. Out of film again! This is a common problem we have noticed since most crews don't realize that the warehouse catalog number for the film is actually adhered to the bottom of the camera itself with the label maker. Crews should feel free to order additional film packs for their polaroids via the monthly Janitorial/Station Supply ordering process. In fact, we're going to add the item to the quick sheet that's located on the Intranet Filing Cabinet.

So here's what 29 did: they grabbed a personal digital camera from one of the crewmember's gear bags. After taking a ton of pics with the kids in and outside of the truck, they learned that Nicholas wants to someday become a fireman (so he called it) Lt. Morris and crew let young Nicholas assist in raising and taking down the 77' aerial ladder as well as tuck away the outriggers and foot plates. Mom could not have been more pleased! At the end of it all, they wrote down the family e-mail address so that they could send them the pics when they got back to the station. It is this endless pursuit to improve the quality of one's life if not just for one day that Q29 had displayed through their efforts. In this case, possibly the inspiration of one young boy's dream to someday ride one of these PBCFR rigs. Frequent Fire Miles are being dispatched to the following:
LT Bill Morris
DO Aaron Turner
PM Gary Garrett

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Posted on January 30th , 2008.

Belle Glade Car in Canal

At 5:40 pm on January 25th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 responded to the 2200 block of East Canal Street South for a witnessed car into a canal in Belle Glade. Units arrived to find two PBSO deputies and two civilians in the water attempting a rescue. One patient was pulled immediately out of the water, but a second one remained. The second patient was able to be brought to the surface by the crew from E73B and PBSO deputies after a few minutes. The crew from R73B was able to restore a pulse and breathing to the patient before arriving at the hospital. The first patient suffered only minor injuries while the second patient was listed in critical condition. The cause of the crash is under investigation by PBSO.

Units on scene: E73B, R73, R73B, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusansky
Posted on January 29th , 2008.

House Fire in Station 33's Area

On 1/26, at approximately 5:45 PM, a fire was reported on Wilson Rd. E33, E2, E24, Q29, R33, DC9 and EMS3 were dispatched. E33 and R33 were first to arrive with fire showing at the front of the building on the 2nd floor. Three lines were stretched, searches conducted and the fire was brought under control.

E39, R24, LA24, BC3, DC11, EMS 11 also responded.

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Story and photos by Jon Ferguson
Posted on January 28th , 2008.

The "Fun House" Opens Doors to Stranded Out-of-Towner

The crews from Station 55, B Shift are all receiving Frequent Fire Miles for the way they handled a stranded out-of-towner that stopped in for directions. Frequent Fire Miles are issued to crew members that express behaviors that depict FF's "Going the Extra Mile" for our fire rescue customers. On this particular scenario there was a man who drove up to the firehouse to secure directions from the on-duty crew. The man was not from this area and was trying to get back home. The man was down and out, low on cash and almost out of fuel. In addition, the time was getting late into the evening and the man had not gotten anything to eat yet. The crews invited the man into the firehouse for a cup of coffee while they drew him up some maps. The man had an extended trip ahead of him and the crew decided to help him out a bit. Turns out the crew provided him a hot meal, filled up his car with gasoline as well as networked with a local motel in order to get him somewhere safe to spend the night. The crews took up a collection to pay for all of this and they left their phone number in case there was anything else they could do for him. If a loved one of mine ever finds themselves stranded in foreign country, I should only hope they encounter the compassion and hospitality of Station 55's finest.

Frequent Fire Miles are dispatched to the following members (see photo from left to right): Jeff Berry, Justin Schainuck, Mike Meyer, Brian Johnson, Pierre Simbert, Mat Poulin and Tim Waterhouse.

Thanks guys for Leading by Example!

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Posted on January 24th , 2008.

Golf Cart Fire at Donald Trump Golf Course

On January 18, Station 33 C Shift responded to a golf cart fire on the Donald Trump Golf Course. E33 and R33 responded to the 1st hole and established "Trump Command". The crew commandeered "Golf Cart 33" and "Golf Cart 33B" to gain access to the blazing cart, took an extinguisher and knocked down the fire. Photos are attached as proof of their outstanding creative firefighting.

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Story by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO, and photos by DO Gordon Wilson
Posted on January 22nd , 2008.

Church Fire in Belle Glade

On January 15 around 1:13 in the afternoon, an engine from Station 73 was dispatched to a possible trash fire. When they arrived Engine 73 called for a full structure assignment. E-73B, E-74, R73, R73B, EMS-7, DC-7 and BC-7 were all assigned to the fire. First in companies found heavy smoke and fire conditions coming from the rear of The First Haitian Church of Belle Glade. It took crews about 30 minutes to get the fire under control and about 19 firefighters and command staff responded to the incident.

The fire was contained to the offices and living areas. The main congregational area only suffered minor smoke and water damage. A good initial aggressive offensive attack by Lt. Dan Smith and probationary firefighter Hadjarree are what saved this house of worship. The fire is still under investigation and the cause is still unknown at this time.

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Story and photos by Captain Bucek
Posted on January 17th , 2008.

Residential Structure Fire

On Saturday 1/12/08, PBCFR units: BC3, E36, R36, DC10, EMS10, E23, R23, E24, Q29, Palm Springs FR E39, and CAT responded to a residential structure fire at 4682 Summit Blvd in station 33's area. First unit on scene was off-duty firefighter Manriquez, shift 3A, who made sure the apartment had been evacuated and assisted with the occupants. Battalion Chief 3 arrived and established command and Engine 36 initated fire attack. All units worked together and the incident was stablized.

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Story and photos by Driver Operator Gordon Wilson
Posted on January 16th , 2008.

Second US-27 Crash

At 2:27pm on January 13th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to the second of two reported car crashes in the 44000 block of US Highway 27 near Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find the driver out of the pickup truck, but the passenger was still in the truck. The crews removed the passenger from the truck and transported her to a local hospital. The crash is under investigation by PBSO.

Units on scene: E74, R73B, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 15th , 2008.

US-27 Crash

At 7:24am on January 13th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to the first of two reported car crashes in the 44000 block of US Highway 27 near Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find both of the occupants out of the vehicle suffering only minor injuries. The crash is under investigation by PBSO but heavy fog is believed to be a contributing factor.

Units on scene: RP74, E73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 15th , 2008.

Belle Glade Fire

At approximately 1:45pm on Monday, January 7th, units from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue stations 73 and 74 were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the Palm Glade apartment complex. Crews arrived to find light smoke coming from a second floor apartment. E74 made entry and extinguished the fire, assisted by crews from E73, E73B, and Q73. The damage was confined to the room of origin. The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature, inside of the wall. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E74, E73, E73B, Q73, R73B, DC7, EMS7, IV4.

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 9th , 2008.

Vehicle Accident in Belle Glade

At approximately 3:00pm on January 4th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 and AMR Zone 4 responded to a reported car crash in the 38000 block of State Road 80 in Belle Glade. Dispatch advised that they had received numerous reports of an SUV that had rolled several times. Crews arrived to find a single occupant still inside of the vehicle with minor injuries. Fortunately, the driver was wearing a seatbelt which probably prevented more severe injuries. The driver was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.

Units on scene: E73, DC7, EMS7, AMR Medic 42

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 7th , 2008.

Santa Helps Adopted Family in Lake Park

On Christmas Eve day, Station 68 along with numerous Santa helpers, delivered toys to a needy family in the Lake Park area. Don Keltner drove the Union's antique engine with Santa and led the parade of equipment that delivered presents to a family that included six children. All three television stations recorded the event for the evening newscasts.

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Story by Captain Don Delucia, PIO, photos by Don Delucia and CAT Volunteer Ron Radwin
Posted on December 26th , 2007.

Santa Delivered to St. Mary's Children's Hospital

On Friday December 21, PBCFR and the PBC F.O.O.L.S. delivered Santa and numerous toys to the children at the Jack Nicholas Children's Hospital. Nearly 27 young patients received toys and encouragement from Santa who arrived in Local 2928's antique fire engine. This was the fourth annual visit to the facility at St. Mary's Hospital.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on December 26th , 2007.

Mentoring from the Tailboard

We all know by taking the oath to serve our community as PBC firefighters that we are held to standards much higher than those of other members of the public. Our firefighters are striving beyond this standard in seeking new ways to "Go the Extra Mile" for our fire rescue customers. Our elders depend on it as much as our youngest members of the community look up to it. These firefighters are exemplary in their efforts towards "doing the right thing." R/LT Kyle Ventry and Paramedics Liz and Jay Martino are perfect examples of what it means to capture this spirit and compassion.

Apparently Kyle's wife is a school nurse at one of the local schools where they met a young boy living in a most unfortunate family environment. After multiple absences from classes they found out that the young boy was staying home to take care of his foster parent. Despite the young boy being dealt a tough hand in life he was doing what was asked of him. Kyle and his wife took him beneath their wing and started caring for the young boy, including paying for medical and school supplies and even welcoming the boy into their own home. While attempting to find another loving home for the boy to live, he was jumped and robbed after school one day. Items stolen from the boy, his only prize possession ... an iPod which allowed the young boy to escape from the daily challenges he faced. Jay and Liz Martino, who have always been inspired by Kyle's unselfish pursuit of "giving back", decided to purchase a new iPod for the boy and anonymously present it to Kyle. Kyle says the darn thing just showed up one day, but he knows who did it. The Martino's generosity is only matched by their modesty. Together firefighters can really make a difference to the young members of their community if they so choose. Our goal should be ensuring that difference is a positive one. We should all take something from this as we empower ourselves to mentor members within our given response zones. Thank you Kyle, Jay and Liz for representing the spirit of our Department All three will receive Frequent Fire Miles for "Going the Extra Mile" and Mentoring from the Tailboards!

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Posted on December 25th , 2007.

CAT Team Donates for Toys for Tots

As we all know, the dedicated members of the CAT team are volunteers who devote their time and energy supporting and guiding people who have suffered a loss due to fire or death. Their efforts are selfless and often go beyond the call of duty. Their ability to always think of others was recently demonstrated this last week when the CAT members decided to turn their monthly meeting into a toy drive to help support Toys for Tots. Their donations helped fill a box at headquarters. As always, the CAT members have gone beyond their expected duties.

Great job team!!!! Thank you!!!!!

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Story and photos by Alicia Kula
Posted on December 20th , 2007.

Station 42 Hosts Division of Forestry Training

On Thursday, December 20th, the Division of Forestry conducted CVOC training for their personnel at Station #42. Approximately 11 DOF personnel completed the course using Transports and Class 6 engines (brush trucks).

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Story and photos by Battalion Chief Mike Wells
Posted on December 20th , 2007.

Firefighters of the Year

LT Frank Cote and R/LT Richard Christmas named Firefighters of the Year.

The text below was edited and taken from context of the original speech written by Chief Mike Arena to the Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce:

These individuals are both exceptional individuals and they both have a sincere commitment to the City of Belle Glade, to Palm Beach County, the Glades area and the people who live and work here. We are very proud to offer these two individuals as the 2007 Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce firefighters of the year. We would like to recognize them together and then share with you some of the contributions that have made to Fire Rescue and the community.

Over 2 years ago Lt Frank Cote had a mission of bringing about a better way to serve the Glades area specifically when people get injured on Lake Okeechobee. He worked very closely with Chief Steve Rice and they were able to secure a grant for a Rescue Airboat for Belle Glade. Lt Frank Cote spent a tremendous amount of his personal time designing and specifying where every thing needed to be on this airboat.

Frank is one of those people who continue to work until the job is done right and he has been doing a tremendous job working with his new Palm Beach County co-worker R/Lt Richard Christmas on developing the training program for it. R/LT Christmas quickly came on board over a year ago and has become an integral part of the airboat program.

This Rescue airboat is the first of its kind to Palm Beach County and it probably would not have happened if it were not for the efforts of both Lt Frank Cote and R/LT Rick Christmas. The airboat program was recently featured on Channel 5 news and the efforts put forth by both Lt Cote and R/LT Christmas were what made that very positive publicity possible.

The airboat was also featured on the evening news on Channel 12 because these 2 individuals once again came together in rapid fashion to save a drowning dog stuck in a weed invested waterway to assist Animal control personnel and ultimately saving the dog. This was also a highly publicized event which all resulted in very good press for Belle Glade and Fire Rescue.

When Richard Christmas found out that Belle Glade was merging with Palm Beach County he immediately wanted to be part of making sure it was going to work and it was going to work right for Belle Glade. He volunteered to transfer out here and came to work to assist anyway he could.

The airboat is not the only thing which puts the two individuals ahead of the pack so let me give you some other examples.

We recently had a large fire at the Okeelanta sugar mill resulting in many firefighters staying out all night. When it was time to switch out crews around 11pm, Lt Cote volunteered to stay out and work so others could go and get some needed rest. He did not want to take no for an answer since he knew there was a great deal of work to be done and he wanted to see it through.

R/LT Richard Christmas made him self available 24/7 immediately after the merger of Belle Glade Fire Department and Palm Beach County after October 1. He responded out on his personal time each time we had a fire or major car accident and was instrumental to the seamless transition between the two departments.

LT Cote has been an ambassador for the Lake and its assets and took the opportunity to showcase it by taking out various elected officials on tours often utilizing his own personal time. He received a personal thank you and commendation letter from Senator Aaronberg.

On Sunday March 11 at approximately 11pm in the evening we received a call for assistance at the 20 Mile Bend boat ramp and there were no airboat operators on duty a call was placed to R/LT Rick Christmas who quickly responded from home and was able to rescue the stranded people.

I have had the opportunity to work several large incidents with these two folks and they are true professional who will do whatever is necessary to get the job done. It does not matter what time of the day it is.

It is the efforts of people such as Frank and Rick that made this happen.

Congratulations!

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Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Pahokee Christmas Parade

Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue participated in this year's Pahokee Christmas Parade. In the parade was Pahokee's own Engine 72, along with the Battalion 7 airboat.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Brush Fire in Belle Glade

On Tuesday, December 17, at approximately 7:15 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 responded to a report of a large brush fire in a subdivision near the southeast side of the city. Crews arrived to find a large pile of fallen trees and debris on fire adjacent to a vacant lot. Engine 73 crews were able to knock the fire down without any further fire spread. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.

Units on scene: Engine 73, Brush 73, District 7, EMS 7, AMR Medic 41

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Rollover Crash Near Lake Harbor

On Saturday, December 15, at approximately 6:20 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 74 in South Bay responded to a single vehicle rollover crash on US Highway 27 3 miles west of Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find a female occupant and her young son already out of the vehicle. The driver sustained minor injuries and the young boy was uninjured. The vehicle had initially rolled onto its roof, trapping the driver and her son. Several passer-bys lifted the truck off of her, pulled her away from the truck, and removed her son from his car seat. Fortunately, the car seat prevented any injury from occurring to the boy. Crews from Hendry County Fire/EMS and Clewiston Fire Department also responded as this was about 2 miles east of the Palm Beach/Hendry County line. Units on scene: Engine 74, EMS 7, District 7, AMR Medic 42, Hendry Medic 408, Clewiston Engine 1.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Construction Worker Saved After Being Buried Alive

Engine 32 and Rescue 32 in suburban Lake Worth were dispatched to a construction accident on December 12th at a site in The Fountains development where an underground lift-tank was being installed. A collapse in the soil had caused a worker to fall to a level approximately 12 feet below level ground and become covered with dirt. Dispatchers initially relayed to responding crews that the patient was buried over his head in dirt but that construction workers had uncovered him enough to clear his face. Engine 32's lieutenant requested the response of one of the county's two special operations units to assist in the rescue. The initial engine and rescue arrived within minutes and were able to uncover the patient a bit further before special operations crews arrived.

Once on scene, special operations crews from Station 31 began laying the groundwork for the below grade, confined space rescue. Firefighter/Paramedic Drew Reyburn spent more than two hours alongside the patient comforting him while directing operations around him from his perspective. Other special operations team members assisted by cutting and placing large boards in the hole in order to shore it up and keep more dirt from collapsing around the patient. The special operations team from Station 19 in Jupiter was requested, as was the special operations team from nearby Boynton Beach Fire-Rescue, in order to relieve weary firefighters working the labor-intensive operation.

A large Aquatech vacuum truck was brought in from Palm Beach County's Water Utilities Department and was used to remove dirt and mud from the area surrounding the trapped worker. Before it was all over, more than 25 Fire-Rescue crews worked together to rescue the worker. After more than four hours, the worker was finally freed and was transported by TraumaHawk AeroMedical helicopter to a local trauma center.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark Carr
Posted on December 14th , 2007.

Suspicious Incident - Car on Fire Crashed Into House

Engine 24, in Westgate, started the shift December 12th with a bang when they were dispatched to a fire in a home at 500 Dogwood Road in suburban West Palm Beach. They arrived to find a working fire in a car that had been crashed through a fence and into the rear of the single-family dwelling. The same crew had responded to another fire at the same location three days prior.

Engine 24's crew brought the fire under control with support from West Palm Beach Fire-Rescue's Ladder 5 and Rescue 5. There were no injuries and the fire remains under investigation.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark Carr
Posted on December 13th , 2007.