Archive for September 16th, 2018

5-Alarm fire and 3-Alarm EMS Alarm in the North Maine FPD, 9-16-18

The North Maine FPD was called to 9396 Landings Lane in unincorporated Des Plaines Sunday morning around 8AM for a reported fire. The incident went to a 5-Alar fire box and a 3-Alarm ambulance box. 

Firefighters battle a fatal 5-Alarm fire at 9396 Landings Lane in unincorporated Des Plaines, IL 9-16-18

Tim Olk photo

Chi-Town Fire Photos

This from Eric Haak:

Here are a few images from North Maine’s 5th alarm on Sunday morning (9/16). Images were taken about 40 minutes in. There was one fatality reported from this incident.

Firefighters battle a fatal 5-Alarm fire at 9396 Landings Lane in unincorporated Des Plaines, IL 9-16-18

Eric Haak photo

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Cancer in the Fire Service

Excerpts from the International Association of Fire Investigators:

The International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) has released a white paper that covers best practices related to health and safety, particularly as it concerns cancer prevention. The paper, which can be found here, was put together by the IAAI Health and Safety Committee after it was re-established in 2016 when it was deemed that health and safety practices and protocols for investigators had not been keeping pace with those of firefighters.

The IAAI says the risks are often overlooked because investigators typically arrive to a scene hours or even days after a fire has been extinguished with less safety preparation and an assumption that because the fire is extinguished, the danger is diminished. However, investigators are often on scene when fires remain active or are still hot, and many develop chronic health issues including respiratory conditions.

The white paper provides detailed information on the types of protections to use in various fire scenarios.

Protection is essential at hot scenes and there are two scenarios described:

  • Fire has been extinguished but overhaul has not yet commenced or is in process.
  • Fire has been extinguished but for less than two hours.

Both of these hot scenes are of greatest danger for fire investigators because of the potential for high levels of gases and particulates. A vetted NIOSH respirator is recommended along with a list of turnout gear and structural firefighter gloves.

A warm scene is when a fire has been extinguished at least two hours prior but less than 72 hours. This is the typical time frame when many investigators find themselves on scene and also remains dangerous due to potential exposure to toxic chemicals. Many of the same protections used in hot scenes apply here.

A cold scene is when a fire has been extinguished for at least 72 hours. While research indicates that particulate and gas hazards are greatly reduced after 72 hours, the disturbing of debris can stir up these hazards. For this reason, respiratory protection is recommended.

Other dangers to investigators include skin exposure to chemicals and contaminants. Research shows that firefighters have a greater incidence of skin cancer due to exposure, and investigators have the same exposure rates. Surveying and properly ventilating a site of gases and vapors will promote better health.

Similar to firefighters, investigators are also urged to properly decontaminate after working at a scene, removing soot-covered clothing and cleaning and wiping down skin that may have been exposed. Clothing or PPE and tools should be placed in sealed containers during transport or cleaned immediately.

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Of interest … the next generation

This from M. Montgomery:

Friday downtown and Thursday night at school!

Future Firefighter

Future Firefighter

Future Firefighter

Future Firefighter

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New engine for Downers Grove (more)

This from Daniel Hynd:

Delivery images of the new engine for Downers Grove

Downers Grove FD Engine 103

Ferrara Fire Apparatus photo

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