topFAMA/FEMSA GAC Newsletter #184
In This Issue
America's firefighters to receive $55 million in grants
FEMA Administrator Fugate Addresses National Hurricane Conference
CFSI ANNOUNCES RECIPIENT OF 2010 PAUL SARBANES AWARD
CFSI ANNOUNCES RECIPIENT OF 2010 MASON LANKFORD AWARD
VFC Receives Grant to Support Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program
Jury Still Out On San Diego 'Brownouts'
Floodplain Maps Don't Always Reflect FEMA Standards
USFA Seeking Departments to Highlight During Arson Awareness Week
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has received notice of the following firefighter fatalities
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America's firefighters to receive $55 million in grants.
DHS Funds Enhance First Responders' Ability to Respond to Emergencies and Protect the American Public

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today $55 million in direct assistance grants to 48 career, volunteer, and combination fire departments. This is the Department's first round of awards for the Fiscal Year 2009 (FY09) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants program. Additional awards are forthcoming.

Since 2005, SAFER has awarded 1,137 grants totaling more than $500 million to fire departments to increase their cadre of frontline firefighters. DHS received 2,128 applications for nearly $1.25 billion in grant requests in FY09.

The SAFER grants program awards grants to assist local fire departments throughout the nation with staffing and deployment capabilities so they may respond to emergencies whenever they occur, assuring their communities have adequate protection from fire and fire-related hazards. SAFER grants provide funding for hiring new firefighters, rehiring laid-off firefighters, and programs for recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters. Ultimately, SAFER grantees should achieve more efficient responses and a safer incident scene.

SAFER grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Preparedness Directorate through its Office of Grants and Training, in cooperation with the United States Fire Administration, also within the Preparedness Directorate.

http://firegrantsupport.com/

Source: DHS
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FEMA Administrator Fugate Addresses National Hurricane Conference


FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate addressed the National Hurricane Conference in Orlando on Wednesday, discussing the importance of coordination with state and local officials in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from hurricanes. Fugate also talked about ways to better engage the public as part of the nation's emergency management team.
 
"FEMA is only one part of the nation's emergency management team," said Fugate. "As hurricane season approaches, FEMA is coordinating with state and local officials to ensure that all communities along the coast are prepared to respond. But we can only be as prepared as the public, and so it's important that everyone take steps now to help keep their family safe in the event of a hurricane or other emergency."
 
Fugate served previously as Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management from 2001 to 2009, a tenure that included some of the most active hurricane seasons and some of the largest responses in the state's history.
 
The National Hurricane Conference brings federal, state and local officials, as well as private sector and non-profit partners together each year to share ideas, learn about new technologies and talk about ways to improve hurricane preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation in the United States and in U.S. territories in the Caribbean and the Pacific.
 
The FEMA Press release is available at http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=50729.

Source: DHS
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CFSI ANNOUNCES RECIPIENT OF 2010 PAUL SARBANES AWARD
  
FIRE SERVICE SAFETY LEADERSHIP AWARD TO BE PRESENTED TO THREE ORGANIZATIONS;
National Volunteer Fire Council, Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and City of New York Fire Department Honored for Contributions to Firefighter Health and Safety
CFSINFFF
The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) have selected the National Volunteer Fire Council, Virginia Fire Chiefs Association and the City of New York Fire Department for the 2010 Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. 
 
The awards will be presented at the 22nd Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on April 29, 2010 in Washington DC.  Named after retired-Senator Paul S. Sarbanes of Maryland, a strong advocate of our nation's firefighters and rescue personnel during his 36-year career in Congress, the award recognizes organizations for their outstanding contributions to firefighter health and safety.  Both State Farm Insurance and VFIS serve as the corporate supporters of the award program.
 
The National Volunteer Fire Council is being honored for establishing the Volunteer Firefighter Health and Safety Priorities. The priorities are categorized in four areas of practices - Behavior, Equipment, Standards and Codes, and Training - forming the acronym BEST.   The NVFC is sharing these practices through an aggressive outreach program that includes the production of 30,000 posters that have been sent to fire departments across the country.  They have also promoted the program through fire publications and local media.  Additional information about the program is available on the NVFC website (www.nvfc.org).
 
The Virginia Fire Chiefs Association is being recognized for the Virginia Fire Officer Academy, a program VFCA established in 2007 to enforce the 16 life safety initiatives of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.  To date, the program has graduated 120 students from all parts Virginia and other states. A key factor in the program's success is the support provided by a number of organizations and associations including the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, the University of Richmond's Jepson School of Leadership, the Virginia Firefighters Association and the Virginia Professional Firefighters Association.  
 
The City of New York Fire Department was selected for their commitment to enhance the safety programs within the agency and to work at the implementation of the Life Safety Initiatives through the use of a tailored video program portraying an FDNY version of the "Everyone Goes Home" Program.  Under the auspicious of the Chief of Department, and in conjunction with the Department's Safety Office they have significantly reduced burn injury occurrences to the members of the FDNY while fostering a belief that "firefighters can only save others if they remain safe themselves."
 
CFSI President Bill Jenaway and NFFF Chairman Dennis Compton issued a joint statement recognizing the recipients for their achievements.  "We are honoring three organizations for their outstanding efforts to enhance firefighter health and safety at the national, state and local levels.  While we will be paying special recognition to these organizations at the National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner, there are a growing number of organizations throughout the nation embracing the ideals of the Sarbanes Award and the Life Safety Initiatives and to them we extend our gratitude and congratulations."

For additional information about the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Award, please visit the CFSI and NFFF websites (www.cfsi.org and www.firehero.org).

Source: CFSI
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CFSI ANNOUNCES RECIPIENT OF 2010 MASON LANKFORD AWARD
  
Kevin O'Connor to be Honored at The National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner: Selected as Recipient of CFSI/Motorola Fire Service Leadership Award

(Washington, DC)  The Congressional Fire Services Institute's Board of Directors selected Mr. Kevin O'Connor of the International Association of Fire Fighters as the recipient of the 2010 CFSI/Motorola Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award.  The presentation will take place at the 22nd Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on April 29, 2010 at the Hilton Washington, in Washington, DC.

Established in 1998, the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have been proactive at the local, state, or federal government level to improve fire/emergency services and life safety issues.  The award exemplifies the work of the late Mason Lankford.  Mason's legacy resonates in the message he would impart calling for a stronger fire service without leaving anyone behind.
 
A veteran of the fire service since 1983, Mr. O'Connor currently serves as Assistant to the General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters.  In addition, he is the outgoing chairperson of the CFSI National Advisory Committee.
 
During his career with the Baltimore County Fire Department, O'Connor held a number of leadership positions at the local and state levels and received accommodations for bravery.  As Assistant to the IAFF General President, O'Connor supervises the IAFF's Governmental Affairs and Public Policy Division.
 
In letters of support from members of Congress, O'Connor was praised for his integrity, character and his commitment to addressing the needs of all firefighters.  "Kevin has always been sensitive to the concerns I have in representing both career and volunteer firefighters and has long recognized that in order to advance the cause of first responders, you must always take into consideration the best interest of the entire fire service community," said Congressman Steny Hoyer.  Congressman Peter King offered similar praise: "While he [O'Connor] represents the International Association of Fire Fighters, he is a trusted and loyal advocate on behalf of all fire fighters."
 
For the past two years, O'Connor has served as Chairperson of the CFSI National Advisory Committee where he provided leadership and support on a broad range of CFSI initiatives. "Kevin's contributions to the fire service as consensus builder and a leading voice in Washington for our nation's fire and emergency services has earned him widespread recognition from members of Congress and fire service leaders, alike" said CFSI President Bill Jenaway.  "The CFSI Board of Directors extends its thanks and appreciation to Kevin for his contributions and looks forward to honoring him at the National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on April 29th."  

Past recipients of the award include: 
2009 - Steve Edwards, Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute
2008 - Hal Bruno, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
2007 - Garry Briese (ret.), International Association of Fire Chiefs
2006 - Meri-K Appy, Home Safety Council
2005 - Chief Alan Caldwell, International Association of Fire Chiefs
2004 - Chief R. David Paulison, FEMA Director
2003 - Chief Dennis Compton, International Fire Service Training Association
2002 - Chief Raymond M. Downey, FDNY (Posthumously)
2001 - Chief John Eversole, Chicago Fire Department
2000 - Paul Boecker, Lisle Woodridge (IL) Fire District
1999 - E. James Monihan, National Volunteer Fire Council



Source: CFSI
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VFC Receives Grant to Support Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program


The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has received a Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grant from the Department of Homeland Security to support the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program. The grant will enable the NVFC to continue many important components of the program, including the Health Fair, Health and Wellness Advocate Workshops, and National Firefighter Health Week, as well as introduce new initiatives in the area of behavioral health.

Read More>>


Source: NVFC
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Jury Still Out On San Diego 'Brownouts'


A cost-cutting measure to put several fire engines out of service is causing life-threatening delays to emergency response in San Diego, critics say.

Read More>>

Source: Disaster Resource
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Floodplain Maps Don't Always Reflect FEMA Standards


Minnesota communities are undergoing a certification process to ensure their levees meet FEMA standards. Until then, they won't appear on floodplain maps at all.

Read More>>


Source: Disaster Resource
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USFA Seeking Departments to Highlight During Arson Awareness Week


Arson Awareness Week will take place May 2-8, 2010, and the National Volunteer Fire Council and Fire Corps are working closely with U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) to develop and distribute information and materials regarding the week. USFA is seeking volunteer/combination departments or Fire Corps programs that conduct community arson awareness/prevention activities. This information may be used in articles and other materials related to Arson Awareness Week. If you are aware of a department, or your Fire Corps team conducts arson awareness/prevention activities, please contact Allison Moore at amoore@nvfc.org or 202-887-5700.


Source: NVFC
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The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has received notice of the following firefighter fatalities:

Name: Leo Powell
Rank: Firefighter
Age: 74
Gender: Male
Status: Volunteer
Years of Service: 40+

Date of Incident: 04/03/2010
Time of Incident: 1200hrs
Date of Death: 04/03/2010

Fire Department: Morgan Township Volunteer Fire Department
Address: 7106 Bear Creek RD, Lucasville, OH 45648-8944
Fire Department Chief: Tim Phipps

Incident Description: At approximately 1200hrs on 04/03/2010, Firefighter Powell responded to a brush fire with the fire department.  After clearing the scene, Powell collapsed at his residence at approximately 1500hrs from an apparent heart attack and could not be revived.

Incident Location: Pending

Funeral Arrangements: A memorial service including a Last Call service will be conducted at 2000hrs Thursday, April 8, 2010, at the Morgan Township Fire Department on Big Bear Creek. The family will receive friends from 1800-2000hrs at the fire department. Arrangements are under the direction of the McKinley Funeral Home in Lucasville.

Memorial Fund Contact and Address: Memorial contributions in honor of Firefighter and former Fire Chief Leo Powell may be made to the Morgan Township Volunteer Fire Department, 7106 Big Bear Creek Road, Lucasville, OH 45648.

Tribute is being paid to Firefighter Leo Powell at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/


Name: Edward Teare
Rank: Lieutenant
Age: 53
Gender: Male
Status: Career
Years of Service: 30

Date of Incident: 03/31/2010
Time of Incident: 1400hrs
Date of Death: 03/31/2010

Fire Department: Independence Fire Department
Address: 6305 Selig DR, Independence, OH 44131-4926
Fire Department Chief: Peter Nelson
Fire Department Website: http://www.independenceohio.org/fire/index.html

Incident Description: Lieutenant Teare complained of not feeling well after a training session, lied down and was found by crew members in cardiac arrest a short time later.

Incident Location: 6305 Selig DR, Independence, OH

Funeral Arrangements: Pending, updates at http://www.independenceohio.org/fire/index.html
Memorial Fund Contact and Address: In honor of Lieutenant Edward Teare, c/o Independence Fire Department, 6305 Selig DR, Independence, OH 44131-4926.

Tribute is being paid to Lieutenant Edward Teare at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/


Name: Dennis Robinson
Rank: Captain
Age: 61
Gender: Male
Status: Career
Years of Service: 26

Date of Incident: 03/30/2010
Time of Incident: 1500hrs
Date of Death: 03/31/2010

Fire Department: Three Points Fire District
Address: 11200 S Sierrita Mtn RD, B328, Tucson, AZ 85736-1434
Fire Department Chief: John Williams
Fire Department Website: www.threepointsfire.org

Incident Description: A few hours after participating in roof ventilation training on the fire department's portable burn trailer, Captain Robinson fell ill at Three Point's Station 92.  He was transported to Saint Mary's Hospital, but succumbed to his injury the following day. The nature of the fatal injury is still under investigation.

Incident Location: 11777 W Camino Lucido, Tucson, AZ 85735

Funeral Arrangements: Visitation Friday, April 2, 2010, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 3, 2010, 1:00 - 2:30 p.m., with Services 2:30 p.m. at EVERGREEN MORTUARY & CEMETERY, N. Oracle Rd & W. Miracle Mile, www.evergreenmortuary-cemetery.com.

Memorial Fund Contact and Address: Memorials may be made to the Three Points Fire Department, 11200 S. Sierrita Mountain Rd., PMB 328, Tucson, AZ 85736 to the attention of Chief John Williams.

Tribute is being paid to Captain Dennis Robinson at
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/


Name: Brian Carey
Rank: Firefighter
Age: 28
Gender: Male
Status: Career
Years of Service: <1

Date of Incident: 03/30/2010
Time of Incident: 2100hrs
Date of Death: 03/30/2010

Fire Department: Homewood Fire Department
Address: 17950 Dixie HWY, Homewood, IL  60430-1732
Fire Department Chief: Bob Grabowski

Incident Description: Firefighter Carey and one other firefighter were seriously injured while rescuing a husband and wife from a burning residential structure. Firefighter Carey died from his injuries and the second firefighter remains hospitalized with first and second degree burns.  In addition, the husband died after being removed from the structure, while the wife was transported to the hospital with serious burn injuries.

Incident Location: 17622 Lincoln Ave, Homewood.
Funeral Arrangements: Pending

Memorial Fund Contact and Address: The Homewood Emergency Medical Fund, 17950 Dixie HWY, Homewood, IL  60430

Tribute is being paid to Firefighter Brian Carey at  http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/


Name: John P. Moore
Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic
Age: 56
Gender: Male
Status: Career
Years of Service: 35

Date of Incident: 03/29/2010
Time of Incident: 1600hrs
Date of Death: 03/29/2010

Fire Department: Columbus Division of Fire
Address: 3675 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, OH 43207
Fire Department Chief: Ned Pettus, Jr.
Fire Department Website: http://fire.ci.columbus.oh.us/

Incident Description: Firefighter Moore was assigned as a Paramedic Instructor at the Columbus Fire Division Training Academy. He was found unresponsive in his office from an apparent heart attack. Efforts to revive Firefighter Moore were unsuccessful.

Incident Location: Columbus Division of Fire Training Academy, 3639/3675 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43207.

Funeral Arrangements: Tuesday, April 6, 2010 @ 1100 hrs, Veterans Memorial, 300 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215.

Memorial Fund Contact and Address: Pending

Tribute is being paid to Firefighter John P. Moore at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/

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