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Newletters From October, 2009
HOMEBUILDERS ARE DEFEATED IN EFFORT TO STOP FIRE SPRINKLER REQUIREMENT
Originally Posted: October 31, 2009 10:01 PM
Last Updated: October 31, 2009 10:01 PM
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FEDERAL FIRE GRANTS AVAILABLE; APPLY NOVEMBER 16, 2009
Originally Posted: October 31, 2009 6:53 AM
Last Updated: October 31, 2009 6:53 AM
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will accept applications for the FY2009 SAFER Grants. The Program Guidance document for the FY2009 SAFER Grants will be posted in the near future at the website for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program - www.firegrantsupport.com.
The FY2009 SAFER program has approximately $210 million available for Grants.
Beginning November 16, 2009, at 8:00 AM Eastern Time, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will begin accepting applications for FY2009 SAFER Grants. The deadline for receipt of the SAFER Grant applications will be 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on December 18, 2009. The applications will be automated and will be accessible from the websites for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.
MORE INFO? www.firegrantsupport.com or www.usfa.dhs.gov/.
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APPLY FOR A HARVARD FIRE EXECUTIVE FELLOWSHIP: 2010 . . . APPLY BY FEB 12
Originally Posted: October 27, 2009 2:10 PM
Last Updated: October 27, 2009 2:10 PM
The 2010 Harvard Fire Executive Fellowship Program is once again sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), Fire Protection Publications/International Fire Service Training Association (FPP/IFSTA), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Fire Administration (USFA).
USFA Administrator Kelvin J. Cochran: “The U.S. Fire Administration and our funding partners sponsor a number of fellows who will attend the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government 2010. The curriculum, faculty, and setting are truly outstanding. Most importantly, this premier program can provide tools and experiences in confronting the collective challenges which fire executives face. I personally know many fire executives who have benefitted from the State and Local Program and found it extremely valuable when examining and understanding the relationships between careerists, elected, and appointed officials.”
Senior fire executives who are selected will be awarded fellowships to attend Harvard's annual Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government.
The 3-week program is conducted on the Harvard campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Selected Fellows will be assigned to attend one of the two session dates: June 7-25, 2010 or July 5-23, 2010. Fellows must be available to attend either session.
Criteria and guidelines for the 2010 program:
Application is open to senior fire executives who have demonstrated significant career accomplishments and have the potential to impact and initiate change. Attainment of a senior position is less important than demonstrated experience in facilitating significant change within a public sector setting.
Preference may be given to applicants who are graduates of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program, although program completion is not a prerequisite. Preference may also be given to applicants who have completed graduate-level degree programs or course work.
Individuals whose organizations have been represented in the Harvard Fellowship Program during 2007, 2008, or 2009 will not be considered. The program is available to international participants.
Application Instructions
1. Applicants must complete and submit the Harvard/Kennedy School of Government Application for Executive Education (DOC, 255 Kb). This form-fillable document can be completed for submission to the address listed below, not to Harvard. It is recommended that this form be saved to your computer. For the question “Who will be the financial sponsor of your participation?” please enter “IAFC/FPP-IFSTA/NFPA/USFA Fellowship”. Make sure that you attach your essay responses (250 words or less for each question response).
2. Enclose a current resume or curriculum vitae.
3. Enclose a letter of recommendation from your senior official. If the applicant is the Chief, the letter should be written by the jurisdictional head (e.g., Mayor or City Manager, etc.). Otherwise, the recommendation should be from the Fire Chief.
4. Please do not submit your application package directly to the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Mail the application package (traceable mail with receipt is recommended) no later than February 12, 2010 (postmark) to the following address:
Harvard Fellowship Program
International Association of Fire Chiefs
c/o Ms. Ann Davison
4025 Fair Ridge Drive - Suite 300
Fairfax, Virginia 22033-2868
Application packages postmarked after February 12, 2010, will not be considered.
MORE INFO? U.S. Fire Administration, (301) 447-1085 or mary.wingert@dhs.gov. Or, USFA or Harvard University/John F. Kennedy School of Government Senior Executives in State and Local Government Web sites,
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FORD ISSUES RECALL FOR FORD MODELS CONTAINING SWITCHES ALLEGED TO CAUSE ENGINE FIRES
Originally Posted: October 14, 2009 4:25 PM
Last Updated: October 14, 2009 4:25 PM
Faulty switches have caused Ford to issue a recall. This recall pushes Ford's recall numbers over 14 million in ten years.
Some of the Ford vehicles have been used in the fire and emergency response
service, for examples by fire chiefs, fire marshals, and support personnel.
Windstars, Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury use the same switches although no problems have been reported in these cars.
The model years stretch from 1992 to 2003.
When switch problem occurs, fires allegedly are caused by the switches.
Last year, Ford investigated the problem after a number of fires under the hoods. A few injuries occured.
Investigators found switches made by Texas Instruments leak internally, overheat and ignite.
The National Highway Transportation Administration also reported fluid leaking into antilock-brake controls resulting in vehicle fires.
Ford no longer uses the Texas Instrument switches. Texas Instruments said there were multiple causes for the fires, but has divested itself of the TI unit that makes switches.
The specific vehicles included in the recall:
1995-2003 Ford Windstar
2000-2003 Ford Excursion diesel
1999-2003 Ford F Series Super Duty diesel
1992-2003 Ford Econoline
1995-2002 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer
1995-1997 and 2001-2003 Ford Ranger
1994 Ford F-35 Motorhome
If you have any comments or information about incidents or vehicles mentioned in this story, please share your information with KentonP1@aol.com
NEEDA by writing KentonP1@aol.com
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SPARTAN MOTORS BUILDS 16 AMBULANCE CAB AND CHAISSIS FOR USE BY MIAMI-DADE FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT
Originally Posted: October 14, 2009 1:11 PM
Last Updated: October 14, 2009 1:12 PM
Spartan Motors Chassis has new orders from OEM Braun Industries for Furion Rescue Transport ambulance cab and chassis.
Braun is providing 16 FurionRT ambulances to the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue department and 11 FurionRT units to DeKalb County Fire & Rescue in Georgia.
The FurionRT is the ambulance industry's first custom chassis. The FurionRT is specifically designed for the emergency-rescue industry,
Tom Gorman, chief operating officer of Spartan Motors: "We're excited to partner with Braun to bring the next generation of ambulance and rescue vehicle innovation to Miami-Dade and DeKalb County. Together, we are offering fire departments improved visibility, cab space, modernized styling and increased weight carrying capacity for their ambulance and rescue vehicle fleets, customized to meet each department's needs.
The FurionRT cab-and-chassis, designed for maximum maneuverability, reliable performance, power, and payload for the Type I-Additional Duty ambulance market.
The corrosion protected 94" steel tilt cab features four doors and superior, unobstructed visibility.
Braun Executive Sales Manager, Chad Brown: "Braun values the pioneering spirit of both Miami-Dade and DeKalb County on this forward-thinking project. We have taken their input and suggestions for future builds to continually improve the platform. The Braun Super Chief/Spartan FurionRT combination provides a longer life expectancy along with unsurpassed maneuverability and superior ride quality. These are just a few of the many quality features that this custom ambulance provides versus a traditional ambulance/rescue on a commercial chassis."
The FurionRT's cab interiors transport crew and equipment to the scene and during patient transport. In addition, the ladder frame and rear air suspension, with dump feature, provide a stable ride for patient and crew. The cab over engine design allows for visibility and maneuverability for six crew members plus their equipment.
John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors: "Our strategy is to transform a large commercial market by breaking it into smaller market niches, where there is more room to add value to a vehicle and benefit the end-user,"
Sztykiel: "Thirty years ago, we applied this strategy to the fire truck market with the first enclosed cab and other innovations at a time when 95 percent of the fire truck market rode on a commercial chassis. Today, more than 55 percent of the fire truck market is on a custom chassis, and Spartan has played a significant role in this evolution."
Sztykiel: "Our approach with the FurionRT is to replicate this strategy in the ambulance market, but in a much shorter time span. These most recent orders are a great step in the right direction. Miami-Dade, the sixth largest fire department in the nation, now has 30 percent of its ambulance fleet on a custom FurionRT chassis only a year after the product's debut."
Braun Industries, Inc. has built custom, hand-crafted ambulances since 1972: Braun offers exclusives as Braun SolidBody(tm) Construction, the EZ Glide(tm) Sliding Door, the MasterTech(tm) III Multiplex Electrical Control System and the VitalMax(tm) Lighting System.
Braun is a member of the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA), the Ambulance Manufacturers Division (AMD) and National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). Braun is headquartered in a 115,000-square-foot facility housed on 13 acres in Van Wert, Ohio.
Spartan Motors Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances and defense and specialty vehicles.
Spartan Motors manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue. Spartan had sales of $844.4 million in 2008.
Other news about Spartan can be found by inserting "Spartan" in the Search
Application on the opening page of NEEDA Newsletter.
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VIRGINIA OFFERS GRANTS FOR fire departments and others TO PROVIDE SMOKE ALARM INSTALLATION AND FIRE SAFETY EDUCATION WITH HIGH FIRE DEATH RATES
Originally Posted: October 11, 2009 9:28 PM
Last Updated: October 11, 2009 9:28 PM
The Virginia Department of Health, Division of Injury and Violence Prevention is accepting proposals to implement the Get Alarmed, Virginia! residential smoke alarm installation and fire safety education program in local communities such as yours between December 1, 2009 and September 29, 2010. Offerors can apply for any monetary amount up to $40,000 to put into operation the required activities of the program. Proposals are due by 3 PM on November 10, 2009.
Since 1998 and with funding from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Division of Injury and Violence Prevention (DIVP) has partnered with local fire departments and others throughout the Commonwealth to provide smoke alarm installation and fire safety education projects in high-risk communities – those with fire death rates higher than state and national averages and median household incomes below the poverty level. Fires are a leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children and seniors in the United States and in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Research indicates that installing and maintaining smoke alarms on every level of a residential home and in every sleeping area reduces the chance of a fire-related death by nearly half.
In Virginia in 2007, fire related injuries were the 4th leading cause of injury-related death for children four and under and the 6th leading cause of injury-related death for older adults 65 and over (Virginia Center for Health Statistics, Virginia Department of Health). According to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs April 2009 edition of Fighting Fires with Facts, the Virginia Fire Incident Reporting System reported that in 2008, there were 64 civilian deaths and 402 civilian injuries due to residential structure fires in Virginia. More than 281 million dollars in total structure fire dollar loss occurred. Twenty-eight percent of building fires had a smoke alarm that operated and alerted the occupants.
This is the 12th year of the Get Alarmed, Virginia! project. Over the past eleven years, 50 local communities throughout the state collaborated with the Virginia Department of Health to implement the project. Because of their efforts, approximately 50,271 alarms have been installed, 29,077 homes are fully protected, and 114 lives were potentially saved.
Organizations that are not fire departments may apply. However, they must include with the application a memorandum of agreement or understanding from a local fire department that clearly states their willingness to train smoke alarm installers during the lifetime of the project. Previously funded organizations that were awarded grants under the Get Alarmed, Virginia! Request For Proposal (RFP) solicitation process between 2006 and 2009 are not eligible for this funding opportunity.
MORE INFO? Application and supplemental documents available to download at www.vahealth.org/injury or http://www.vahealth.org/Injury/getalarmedva/index.htm
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CROWN VIC GETS EARLY 2011 COMPETITION: CHEVROLET'S POLICE PATROL VEHICLE
Originally Posted: October 5, 2009 6:25 PM
Last Updated: October 5, 2009 6:25 PM
At a police convention in Denver, Chevrolet said the all-new Chevrolet Caprice PPV (Police Patrol Vehicle) will in police departments in early 2011. The Caprice PPV will be offered with a 6.0-liter, 355-horsepower V-8 engine, as well as a V-6 engine in 2012.
Jim Campbell, general manager for GM Fleet and Commercial Operations: “The new Chevrolet Caprice police car is the right tool at the right time for law enforcement. We asked for a lot of feedback from our police customers, which helped us develop a vehicle that is superior to the Ford Crown Victoria in key areas.”
The future of the Crown Victoria, longtime staple of police service, is year-to-year. It is expected that Ford will offer a police package for the new, larger, front-wheel-drive Taurus.
In addition to the Crown Victoria, police vehicles now are the rear-wheel-drive Dodge Charger and the front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Impala, which has been in police service since 2000. The Impala police package will survive, at least for a while.
The new Caprice PPV is based on a similar platform used for the Australian-built Pontiac GTO and G8, as well as for the new Chevrolet Camaro. While General Motors insists that the Caprice PPV will not be marketed to the public, many in the industry suspect that if the demand exists, it eventually could, much as the company marketed what was essentially the police-package-equipped Caprice as the Impala SS in the mid-1990s.
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MESSAGE FROM BARACK, PRESIDENT, THE WHITE HOUSE: FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
Originally Posted: October 5, 2009 5:33 PM
Last Updated: October 5, 2009 5:33 PM
As powerful as any force in the natural world, fire deserves our utmost attention. Unchecked, fire can destroy homes, devastate our environment, and, at its worst, injure or fatally harm individuals. Fire Prevention Week is a time to learn about important fire safety issues and empower our communities to stay "Fire Smart." It is also a time to honor our Nation's brave firefighters and volunteers who risk their lives to protect their fellow Americans.
Every year, thousands of Americans experience fires in their homes and workplaces. We can greatly reduce these tragedies by taking a few, very simple steps. For example, if each of us strives to remain attentive while cooking, to properly dispose of all smoking materials, and to regularly check and replace smoke alarm batteries, we can help keep our families safe from harm and protect personal property. Additional precautionary measures should also include the formation of an emergency plan and the education of our children about the proper ways to handle potentially dangerous situations with fire.
This week's theme, "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned," focuses on increasing burn awareness and prevention. We can each do more to avoid severe burns by testing water temperature, remaining aware of open flames, and ensuring that heating elements -- such as those in electric stoves, toasters, hair appliances, and space heaters -- are secure and operated properly. These easy, common sense practices can help Americans avoid suffering painful burns.
Fire can have a devastating impact on the life of an individual or family, and it can have far-reaching financial and human consequences. Wildfires can burn hundreds of acres and affect numerous communities, while household fires can spread to neighboring buildings. These and other emergency situations can endanger the lives of not only the public, but also our rescue workers and firefighters. During Fire Prevention Week, we are reminded of the dangers of fire, we honor the brave men and women who protect us from it, and we recommit ourselves to its responsible use.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 4 through October 10, 2009, as Fire Prevention Week. On Sunday, October 4, 2009, in accordance with Public Law 107-51, the flag of the United States will be flown at half staff on all Federal office buildings in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. I call on all Americans to participate in this observance with appropriate programs and activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
BARACK OBAMA
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NEEDA URGES CONGRESS TO KEEP PRO BUSINESS PROVISIONS IN THE LAW THROUGH NEXT YEAR
Originally Posted: October 5, 2009 5:26 PM
Last Updated: October 5, 2009 5:26 PM
Below is a letter iasking Congress to pass a tax extenders bill signed by NEEDA and other small business organizations including the US Chamber of Commerce:
TO THE MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS:
We urge Congress to enactas soon as possible legislation that would extend business tax provisions that expire at the end of 2009. Such an extension will help build momentum for strong economic recovery and job growth.
Although data indicates the economy has begun to emerge from a deep, prolonged recession, a major obstacle to recovery lurks. Thousands of U.S. businesses and individual taxpayers would face major tax increases if these tax provisions expire. An extension would bring more certainty in U.S. tax law, foster more effective business decisions, and encourage investment. Moreover, the Administration asked Congress to extend the tax provisions as part of the President's 2010 budget request.
The expiring provisions that we urge you to extend include the R&D provision and the election to deduct state and local general sales tax and the exception under Subpart F for active financing income.
We strongly support the timely extension of these vital pro-growth tax provisions and look forward to working with you on this issue.
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INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CORPS APPEALS FOR HELP NEEDED BY FIRST RESPONDERS IN INDONESIA
Originally Posted: October 3, 2009 6:00 PM
Last Updated: October 3, 2009 6:00 PM
International Medical Corps emergency response teams are on the ground in Padang, Indonesia, providing medical and other assistance to survivors, and helping in the rescue of those trapped in rubble.
International Medical Corps is working closely with its long-time partner in Indonesia, Ambulan 118, a national organization of emergency responders. In addition, International Medical Corps is distributing medical, non-food items and hygiene kits.
Gifts Accepted:
Food and non-food items, medical supplies and equipment, water/sanitation/hygiene
MORE INFO? www.imcworldwide.org, or call toll-free at: 800-481-4462
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GIRL SCOUT COLLECTS 118 OXYGEN MASKS DESIGNED FOR ANIMALS AND DONATES THEM TO THE LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT
Originally Posted: October 3, 2009 5:49 PM
Last Updated: October 3, 2009 5:49 PM
The non-profit Tavis Smiley Foundation, Los Angeles, CA, honored 100 outstanding teens Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009.
Tavis Smiley, along with comedian and host Chris Spencer, led the program. Nominees were submitted by the public.
The foundation invited the public to nominate middle and high school teens between the ages of 13 and 18 who they believed were great examples of positive youth engagement, volunteerism, community service and leadership.
Among those honored:
A Girl Scout who collected 118 oxygen masks designed for animals and donated them to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
A 15-year-old pilot who flew solo from California to Virginia in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen.
The 2009 Smiley Scholars sponsored by United Health Foundation will each receive $5,000.
Four Smiley Scholars sponsored by Anheuser-Busch will each receive $5,000.
Benefit proceeds will support the Foundation's 2010 Leadership Institute, a four-day youth conference that includes workshops on advocacy, youth organizing, college and career planning.
More than 220 youth representing 28 states attended the 2009 conference held in August at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Registration opens in February for the 2010 Institute.
NEEDA dealers are invited to submit nominees for future awards.
MORE INFO? 323-290-1888 or www.youthtoleaders.org
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FIRE SAFE CIGARETTES HELP LOWER THE RISK OF FIRES, PROPERTY DAMAGE AND DEATHS
Originally Posted: October 3, 2009 5:30 PM
Last Updated: October 3, 2009 5:30 PM
From Kenton Pattie, NEEDA Executive Director
and is the only fire industry member of the American Lung Association, VA
Advocacy Committee
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) coordinates a fire-safe cigarette support group, the Coalition for Fire-Safe Cigarettes. Their effort calls for tobacco manufacturers to produce and market only fire-safe cigarettes.
Smoking is the leading cause of home fire fatalities in the US despite the fact that there are fewer smokers.
The victims of the fires are not only the smokers but their children, spouses or partners, and even neighbors or friends. The United States Fire Administration’s (USFA) National Fire Data Center reported 2007 estimates for residential fires related to smoking-materials:
18,900 Residential Fires
595 Residential Fire Deaths
1,200 Residential Fire Injuries
$327 Million in Residential Property Loss
Fire safe cigarettes are one good idea to prevent the loss of life and property caused by smoking-material fires.
Technically referred to as "reduced ignition propensity cigarettes", they are designed to reduce the probability of a cigarette burning through its wrapper (paper).
This minimizes the risk of the cigarette igniting materials if it is accidentally dropped or left on a flammable or combustible surface. Behaviors associated with smoking-material fires, such as falling asleep, impairments from alcohol or drug use, and age emphasize the importance of fire-safe cigarettes.
New York was the first state to adopt fire-safe cigarette legislation in 2004. As of August 31, 2009, an additional twenty-nine states, plus the District of Columbia, require any cigarettes being sold to meet the fire-safe standard. New York reports an estimated 33% reduction in fire fatalities due to smoking-material fires since they started collecting the data. However, it is still too early to see a statistical trend in all states that have adopted the legislation.
Does your state have a law requiring all cigarettes to be fire-safe?
MORE INFO? Kelvin J. Cochran , Assistant Administrator, U. S. Fire Administration or www.firesafecigarettes.org
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GOOD ADVICE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY; HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN EMERGENCY?
Originally Posted: October 1, 2009 6:14 PM
Last Updated: October 1, 2009 6:14 PM
By Nina Johnson
Columnist, Contra Costa Times
A few years back, I found myself facing an emergency. My husband called me at work to say there was a fire nearby. He asked me if I wanted to get anything out of the house and what would I want. Blank. That was my response. My mind went completely blank.
All I could imagine was getting out of danger. The fire wiped out two homes. It happened so fast that a neighbor went out to walk her dog and came back to no home. An electrical transformer had blown up on the street and her home was gone in a matter of minutes.
My blank reaction is typical if you have not worked out a plan ahead of time. You want to be able to react on autopilot, not plan during the moment of crisis.
In the Bay Area, every day is emergency preparedness day. We usually think of earthquakes and fire, but keep in mind that any incident whether it is an unexpected heart attack, a car accident near your home, or a kid who swallows something poisonous constitutes an emergency. Are you prepared? Is your earthquake kit complete? Accessible? Updated?
This is serious stuff and a big task, so I will tackle the situation as I would any other organization project. I break it down to parts.
According to the Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security, disaster preparedness consists of three basic steps: Get a kit, make a plan, and be informed.
Folks who are prepared are more able to remain calm and think clearly when disaster strikes. Experts recommend you should be able to care for yourself, your family and pets for at least three to seven days without outside assistance or utilities.
How do you achieve this? I say, break the project into smaller parts and set a time line with milestones. Before you know it, you will have your kit and your plan.
The kit consists of the vital things you need to survive those three to seven days. Kits typically include water, food, first aid materials, including prescriptions, and other items. A number of Web sites offer suggestions for your kit.
To ease the pain, make at least two kits at the same time: one for your house and one for the car, and more for second and third cars as necessary. Use old duffel bags or other totes that you already own. A few suggestions to help you with the process:
Make a list of everything you want to include in your kits.
Follow that up by collecting things around your house that you already own.
Update your list and go shopping.
If this doesn't work for you, several companies sell prepared kits. Give yourself a month, but set a deadline and you will get this done.
Now you are ready to assemble your kits. Use a Sharpie maker and date everything you put in your bag. Set a date on your calendar to review the kit every six months. The review should take no more than five minutes.
There you go. In just one month you have assembled your kits. Even if they are incomplete, this is better than having nothing. You can always add to the kits as you think of more things that would be important.
Now you are ready to make a plan. Have a family meeting to discuss gathering places. Talk about different scenarios, such as what to do if you need to cross a bridge that may be unavailable, or what to do if there is no cell phone service and you cannot communicate. Designate an out of area contact. Make cards with emergency numbers and plans for each family member to keep in their wallet.
Give yourself two weeks to have the meeting and to complete any follow up tasks that come out of the meeting.
In a month and a half you have already completed your kits and set a plan. That's not so bad. Are you ready to react on autopilot? Almost, but take a few more steps.
Don't forget about important paperwork and household information. Prepare a box that is easy to grab if you need to make a hasty exit. Make two copies of the important documents that you want to retain. Put one copy in your quick grab box, and send a second set to an out-of-area relative or keep elsewhere like safe deposit box.
These documents should include anything that is vital and important to your family and your home. These may include:house title, copies of insurance policies (health and home), passports and important numbers such as bank information and Social Security information.
Finally, don't forget about preserving memories. No one wants to lose memories. Create a home inventory by filming details room by room with a video camera and send it to your out-of-area contact. Not only is this useful for insurance purposes, but it will also be the memento of your home in case all is lost. Store your most treasured photo albums or boxes of photos in an easy to access place so that you can grab them.
Nina Johnson is a Montclair, California resident and professional organizer.
MORE INFO? simply-organized@sbcglobal.net or 510-482-1619.
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US GRANT MONEY AVAILABLE FOR ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS: DEADLINE FOR ALL APPLICATIONS IS OCTOBER 23, 2009
Originally Posted: October 1, 2009 6:00 PM
Last Updated: October 1, 2009 6:01 PM
The Department of Homeland Security's FY 2009 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grants Program Guidance on the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) application period ends October 23, 2009, at 5:00 PM.
These grants support projects for the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and fire-related hazards. The grants are competitive, and their primary goal is to target high-risk populations. Grant awards are made in order to mitigate high incidences of death and injury and to carry out research for improving firefighter safety.
Examples of the types of fire prevention projects that are supported by FP&S include smoke alarm installation, fire prevention and public safety education campaigns, juvenile fire setter interventions, media campaigns, and arson prevention and awareness programs. Organizations that are eligible to apply under the research activity should consult the Program Guidance for detailed information on priorities and areas of emphasis.
An applicant tutorial for the fire prevention activity is available through the www.firegrantsupport.com Web site.
The tutorial provides you with valuable grant information and will walk you through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial will provide an overview of the fire prevention funding priorities and evaluation criteria.
Applicants who have questions regarding the Fire Prevention and Safety Grants opportunity should contact the help desk as soon as possible at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov.
During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (EDT), but is prepared to revise hours of operation based on volume, demand, holidays and urgency to complete the FP&S Grants application period and processing for FY09.
The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration.
MORE INFO? www.firegrantsupport.com/fps/guidance/.
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HURST JAWS OF LIFE DONATION WINS PRAISE FROM US SENATOR RICHARD BURR OF NORTH CAROLINA: "YOU DON'T NEED TO LOOK TO THE GOVERNMENT TO SOLVE EVERY PROBLEM"
Originally Posted: October 1, 2009 5:55 PM
Last Updated: October 1, 2009 5:55 PM
Hurst Jaws of Life rescue tools were donated to Firefighters Crossing Borders, an American charity.
United States Senator Richard Burr of North Carolina: He mentioned the government’s own trade in program with a smile, cash-for-clunkers, but thanked Hurst, Fabregat and Parker. “You've proven that you don't need to look to the federal government to solve every problem. I'm proud to be here because the government is not involved in this program."
In attendance were Shelby’s Mayor Ted Alexander, Police Chief Jeff Ledford, and Fire Chief William Hunt. The Shelby fire department also conducted a demonstration of the Jaws of Life on several overturned vehicles.
Hurst’s Jaws of Life Latin American distributor, Importadora Fabregat, S.A. donated $52,500 in power units and also logistics support for Mexico. Parker Hannifin Corporation donated $6,400 in hydraulic hoses to operate the tools. The equipment will be used by the charity to train Mexican fire brigades and also by Fabregat to be placed in rescue tool kits.
THurst’s General Manager, Bill Simmons: “We are not just producing newer rescue tools in the United States to decrease extrication time, but today we are giving less developed areas the opportunity to use these legacy tools to do the same. In many of these regions they have no rescue tools at all. It is a privilege to be able to gather here together and share the incredible opportunity we have to help underserved countries like Mexico and throughout Central America.”
Joel Schwarz, executive director of Firefighters Crossing Borders: “We began ten years ago as local Gig Harbor, Washington Firefighters wanting to bring old, usable equipment to the northern Baja of Mexico. Our mission is simple, we try to bring emergency equipment that is no longer usable here in the United States to places where it can be used and continue to save lives. With this equipment, we endeavor to bring the training that will allow it to safely do just that."
Hurst’s has been providing 32-A and 32-B spreaders and also used 0-150 cutters. “We ran a trade-in program where fire departments in the United States and Canada could trade in their legacy tools for cash. Since we started the trade-in program at the end of 2008, we have received more than 135 tools and valued at more than $130,000,” said Aaron Guenther, Hurst’s vice president of sales and marketing. “After testing and servicing the rebate tools, there were a few that needed to be discarded for safety reasons and also for spare parts to make working tools.”
Hurst Jaws of Life is a division of Hale Products Inc.
Firefighters Crossing Borders is a 501 (c) (3) non profit organization whose purpose is to help emergency workers worldwide through training and equipment. They have worked with rescue agencies in Mexico and partnered with organizations serving Cambodia and Guatemala
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LAW FIRM DONATES BEAST HYDRAULIC RESCUE TOOLS TO INDIANA FIRE DEPARTMENTS
Originally Posted: October 1, 2009 5:33 PM
Last Updated: October 1, 2009 5:33 PM
Indianapolis injury lawyers Keller & Keller are donating a pair of high-end extrication tools to the Bloomington and Switz City Fire Departments in Indiana.
Chief Roger Kerr of the Bloomington, IN Fire Department: "This donation will allow Bloomington's firefighters to cut through these new metals much faster, making sure we can quickly attend to victims and get them to the hospital if needed."
Attorney Jim Keller said the idea to donate the tools originated from his experiences in working with clients who have lost loved ones due to serious auto accidents.
Keller: "When I listen to a person relay the account of their spouse or child's fatal accident there are times in which I wonder if quicker extraction would have made the difference between life and death."
Keller added, "We know that firefighters face an increasing problem of quickly cutting victims out of auto accidents involving five-star crash-rated vehicles, and we also know that the faster victims get to a hospital, the better their chances are to make a full recovery from their injuries."
Firefighters and rescue personnel say the time between a 'few minutes' to 'several hours' in which a person must receive medical treatment determines the chance of survival following a life-threatening injury. Some refer to it
as the golden sixty-minutes.
The departments will receive a Champion Rescue Tools BEAST hydraulic rescue tool that will allow fire fighters and rescue personnel to cut through the stronger metals used in today's 5-star crash-rated vehicles.
NEEDA Executive Director, Kenton Pattie said "There are other organizations
and businesses which should consider paying for extrIcAtion and other rescue
tools for use in their communities. The use of these emergency equipment tools increases life saving and should be available as a public service in every community. It's really great to see a law firm in Indiana make this donation. Others should copy their initiative."
the number of rescue successes in each community
MORE INFO? championrescuetools.com
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FIREFIGHTER INJURIES COST $2.8 - $7.8 BILLION PER YEAR: PREVENTABLE?
Originally Posted: October 1, 2009 5:11 PM
Last Updated: October 1, 2009 5:11 PM
The US Department of Commerce's 2005 report "Economic Consequences of Firefighter Injuries and Their Prevention" says the estimated cost of addressing firefighter injuries and of efforts to prevent them is $2.8 to $7.8 billion per year. The study obtained workers compensation information specific to occupational codes for firefighters, injured and non-injured alike. Estimated health care costs accounted for $830 to $980 million of direct and indirect costs.
"Occupational Athletes" such as firefighters, policemen and the military have high work related injuries and new research could lead to advances in on-the-job physical training and health care. Reducing injuries could save municipalities, taxpayers and the families of firefighters thousands of dollars in health care related costs.
Researchers located at the Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Gulf Breeze, Florida., founded by Dr. James Andrews, have biomechanical data that may identify the potential for firefighter injury. The study has been lead by two Ph.D. students from the University of Waterloo in Canada in conjunction with the Andrews Institute, Athletes' Performance and 75 members of the Pensacola, Florida Fire Department.
A healthy firefighter is an effective and safe firefighter. If injury prevention is attainable, more lives will be saved. It will also save on the bottom line for many municipalities, not to mention the financial burden an injury could place on the family of a firefighter. Billions of dollars are spent each year on disability payments, medical treatments, duty restrictions, and lost work/training time, and human-related sacrifices being made. While it is unlikely that all firefighter injuries can be eliminated, risk management and training applications offer ways to reduce injury levels.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the U.S. Department of Commerce 2005 report, "Economic Consequences of Firefighter Injuries and Their Prevention" found that the estimated cost of addressing firefighter injuries and of efforts to prevent them is $2.8 to $7.8 billion per year. The study covered firefighters, injured and non-injured. Estimated health care costs alone accounted for $830 to $980 million of direct and indirect costs.
Too often, measures of "fitness", such as strength or muscular endurance are used to identify occupational readiness, with disregard for how the tasks are performed. Interestingly enough, the individuals appearing to be the most physically prepared could in fact move their body's in ways that predispose them to a higher risk of injury. There is some indirect evidence to suggest that firefighters who have trouble controlling their normal body mechanics may be more susceptible to low-back and other musculoskeletal injuries than firefighters who exhibit excellent body control.
Dr. James Andrews. "If we are able to identify injury trends and suggest improvement for training modifications, this could have a profound impact on an international scale...not only in the firefighting community but in other occupations as well."
The Andrews Institute is an affiliate of Baptist Health Care. Baptist Health Care is a community-owned, not-for-profit health care organization committed to improving the quality of life for people and communities in Northwest Florida and South Alabama.
MORE INFO? www.theandrewsinstitute.com
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