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Great shots! Any of the Ford Escapes in service? I'm all for using more fuel efficent, realistic size vehicles but those that are equipped with Officer safety in mind. I love the Fusion, but I always though the reason why PD's have larger sedans was not only equipment, but because officers spend all day in their cars. Plus, I've seen some mangled CVPI's that attest to them protecting the officer. Is this next for NYPD? Someone told me that the NYC Park's Department ordered some to patrol Central Park?

I was wrong, FEMA did act promptly- financially. And Alabama is holding it's own- at least the politicans are making it seem that way. Today is several days after the tornadoes rolled through some of the poorest areas in the nation. The was nothing small about this. Resources are just begining to trickle in after days of despair, and haven't even reached some of the poorest and most remote areas yet. There are over 280 dead and more missing and thousands injured. That's 280 to bury in some towns that lost their morgues, funeral homes, etc. There are still people with nothing left. Some of these people haven't been able to call other family members, get fresh water, clothes, etc. These people aren't going to have jobs to go back to for a while, either. There are still tractor trailer drivers, who aren't even from the area, who are crippled because their truck and cargo is laying on it's side on the interstates. There are significant gasoline shortages, and people are unable to fuel their emergency generators (this includes "shelters") or their vehicles to go someplace else. There are no grocery stores left in some towns, either. Not to mention the looting that's begining. Not only are local people looting a lot of the stores that got damaged (especially stores like Best Buy, Wal-Mart, pharmacies, etc), but people are even coming from other places to do so. And local emergency services workers.....obviously some of them are victims personally, too. There are FD's, PD's 911 Commincation Centers, EMS services, that are completly wiped out. If you're having a heart attack or medical emergency, you're screwed. And a lot of these people are screwed right now if there is another outbreak of tornadoes...especially since "tornado season" in tornado alley hasn't even begun. It was interesting this occured during the Texas State Emergency Management Conference, and to see a lot of analysis fron experts worldwide. Especially since there are three national disasters currently...the tornadoes, the wildfires in Texas, and the flooding in the upper midwest. http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/conference/txEmerMgmtConf.htm

First Bronto Skylift, now Snozzle. I guess Snozzle makes sense for Oshkosh ARFF trucks, wonder if Pierce will start marketing it strongly for structural firefighting? The only bad news is the Snozzle and other ARFF equipment were built in Dallas, TX and they are going to be relocating their plant to WI.

Chik-Fil-A (I don't know if they have them in the Northeast yet) is a fast food chain that serves a variety of high quality chicken products (NOT fired chicken) They use these cows who promote the eating of chicken for advertising, and always have cool billboards. I came across this one today, while driving down FM 1825 in Plugerville, TX:

Death toll has exceeded 280 over 6 states, with Tuscaloosa,AL hardest hit it seems. Here in Texas, TX TF-1 (Houston) was just taken off "Alert" status by FEMA, who said "FEMA has confirmed with the States' of Alabama and Georgia that US&R assets will not be needed". Is it just me, or does it seem FEMA is again dragging it's feet? I haven't heard much about what the Federal government is doing, aside from a short "brush aside" message from the President before going on with the Defense Department changes. I don't see how these six states, or the citizens who have been devastated by the destruction, could have "all the resources they need". Especially with most of our "homeland security" forces overseas.

Yesterday, I traveled to the Dallas-Fort Worth area to attend the Avalance Tour featuring Art Of Dying, Halestorm, Skillet, Theory Of A Deadman, and Stone Sour at the Verizon Theater. The best concert I've ever been to. I managed to get some fire apparatus photos before the show, and figured I'd share them with you. Thanks to Pete (TaskForce7) and Ben for the help........ First up, North Richland Hill's new 2011 KME Predator: Fort Worth Truck 2, American Lafrance Corey Taylor and Stone Sour putting on a killer set! Dallas FD Truck 3, Spartan/Crimson Plano, TX FD Engine 1- 2010 Spartan/Rosenbaeur Dallas FD USAR Task Force 2 Component (International/Reefer Trailer donated by Schlepps Dairy): Dallas FD Battalion 1-2011 Ford F-250 awaiting lights, radios, and equipment Plano, TX Truck 1- 2010 Spartan/Smeal Dallas FD Engine 6, Spartan/Quality Dallas FD EVOC Training Unit: An In N Out under construction....finally a confirmation that In N Out is really coming to Texas A Union Pacific train makes it's way through Grand Prarie, TX: Grand Prarie FD Truck 1 (sorry it's not a better shot): Fort Worth FD Engine 12, Spartan/Central States Dallas USAR Task Force 2 Component-2011 Ford F-750 Lizzie from the band "Halestorm" makes time for the fan betwenn Skillet's and Theory Of A Deadman's sets.

FULL ARTICLE: http://news.yahoo.com/s/dailybeast/13734_suicidekitsthe91yearoldwomansellinginstantdeathontheinternet;_ylt=Ag7uSf85EbFrRpOkWK3dpjJH2ocA;_ylu=X3oDMTR1YnI3b2lwBGFzc2V0A2RhaWx5YmVhc3QvMjAxMTA0MjgvMTM3MzRfc3VpY2lkZWtpdHN0aGU5MXllYXJvbGR3b21hbnNlbGxpbmdpbnN0YW50ZGVhdGhvbnRoZWludGVybmV0BGNjb2RlA21wX2VjXzhfMTAEY3BvcwM0BHBvcwM0BHNlYwN5bl90b3Bfc3RvcmllcwRzbGsDdGhlOTEteWVhci1v

Oops, forgot this photo. As you can see, the back of Plano's Truck 1 is barely visible.

The very popular class is back for another session!!!! Heavy Duty Truck Extrication Course Hosted By Stiloskis May 4th & 5th 2011 MORE INFORMATION: http://www.stiloskis.com/training.php

The class is full. Stiloski's extended it to 43 participants and there is a 12 person waiting list. As for the cost, like all of Stiloski's previous classes, it is free. Anyone who would like to observe the excercise can contact the email listed on the webpage address and get on a list. (and if anyone wants to photograph for this site, I would greatly appreciate it!)

I must say AFD's trucks are AWESOME. But back to the topic at hand.... No, we are WAY, WAY more progressive down here then most of the departments in the country. Texas is a gigantic state (270,000 sq miles), and you need more wildfire trucks to cover more ground. We also have just about every ecosytem......coastal, prarie/plains, forest and swampland, mountainous areas, and vast desert with canyons and all kinds of other things. Those big trucks may be the answer, and I certainly think they are awesome, but it's not realistic at this time. I'm sure a lot of departments would love to have these, but to get enough of these trucks to cover the 270,000 square miles that is Texas simply isn't a short term answer in this economy. You also need other resources at a grass/wildland fire. You need to dig trenches so the fire can't spread underground, you need to create a fireline/firebreak, and you've got to try and make sure that there aren't any trees that it can crown. You need to do proactive and prescribed burns. In agricultural areas, you may have to herd livestock. In others, you may have to assist with evacuations. As far as staffing, only one firefighter could be manning the whip line as well. Using the transverse deck, he/she could change sides. A vehicle is not the solution to the problem, only a tool to assist with the problem. All these departments have Class A engines, and whatever else type of apparatus their department needs. Brush trucks can run independtly or as part of a task force, while still have the structural apparatus ready for a structural response. These brush trucks don't sit collecting dust. And all they are needed for is brush fires in most cases. Some departments use them to run EMS or parking garage calls. But, if they go to help another department, these trucks can be gone for days. And given the enormous military facilities in Texas, this chasis is very familiar...I see it all the time with various uses. It's very impressive. They are also made in the Houston area, and I've passed by the factory on my way to Houston. Getting them surplus is cheap. But the Federal government would rather spend billions fighting wars overseas, and contracts to build their police and fire forces, then protect our homeland and equuip fire departments in need with these types of powerful trucks that could put a big dent in wilfire suppresion and firefighter safety. Read this story: http://www.texas-fire.com/2011/04/more-than-1000-firefighters-from-35-states-helping-battle-texas-blazes/ Sound fun? BTW, thanks for the heads up on those trucks! I will be going down there to photograph them. I didn't even know they existed. From an article I found online:

I'm not saying I disagree with you, I understand and agree with the safety issues with the transverse deck, but that's just the way things are done and what most departments want. It's simple, cheap, and effective. The two firefighters on the whipline are probaly on the brush fire assignment, probaly on the engine they quarter with. Having those big fancy trucks sure would be nice, but a lot of department's can't afford them or would rather use money enhancing other parts of their wildfire programs. In fact, in a lot of the more rural areas, they build their own brush units. Also, all they really need and want out of these trucks is water, foam, and a hose, and some wildland tools. They'd rather have more money for MORE brush trucks and tankers, which help more then a single vehicle would. The front remote controlled nozzle is gaining in popularity, but is still an expensive option that uses more water and foam then is needed. They get out and fight the fire. And these fires are a fight. I'm sure many departments would love an airport crash truck to tackle these fires, but that just isn't in the cards. In addition, these are built on a Ford chasis, and there are tons of Ford dealers and parts in Texas that can fix any mechanical issue quickly. Any issue with the pump can be quickly repaired, or the pump can easily be changed out. In addition, most of the manufacturers are local. There are inherent risks in a structure fire. There are also risks with a fire that can move a football field a minute, and can be started by a single cigarrete butt. We're in an extreme to exceptional drought, and have had heavy winds and perfect fire conditions. By the time you get out of the truck, the fire can pass you. These trucks can easily fit into residential areas and pre-apply Class A foam when they can. One fire consumed forty houses in just under two hours. Another fire was the size of Rhode Island. There are some urban interface units being built, but they aren't very common. Mostly all Texas departments, including major Texas departments such as Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and Fort Worth use these type of trucks. And, some of these areas are really remote and rural, some cities only having 200 people, and they're an hour or more away from anything. It should be noted that Texas has EXTENSIVE training and protocol for these trucks and where, when, and how they are used. I should note, the state issues Texas INTRAstate Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS), don't have a transverse deck. Check out pohotos of them here:

This seems like it was a pretty cool event. Anyone here go? http://www.lohud.com/article/20110424/NEWS01/104240370/Skid-steer-pros-show-drive-Brewster-race?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage

This position isn't used while responding. It's used on the scene, on typically flat or field terrain, at no more then 5-10 miles an hour. Having two firefighters on "whip lines" is a very effective and quick way to get a grass fire extinguished. The potential is there, hopefully it never happens. Instead of having the firefighter walk along the side of the unit for several miles, in often very high Texas heat. That presents a trip and fall situation, in which the firefighter could potentially be run over. Also, the firefighter doesn't have to walk through "hot spots" or through the fuel. Walking is also is a slower method, allowing the fire to get ahead better. Wildland gear contains a personal shelter. Plus, training for wildland fires to help prevent these types of situations. Just like you would use certain tatics in a structure fire. Also, in this type of truck, they can often outrun the fire as opposed to a large regular engine. In addition, this truck isn't going to be placed in harm's way in a "raging wilfire" type situation. It's going to be used to knock down fire in certain locations, especially the perimiter of the fire, as well as to knock down hot spots. If it's a small fire, like a roadway shoulder or small field, you can get ahead of the fire real quick in this, preventing the fire from becoming a large fire. It should also be noted that Class A foam is used to maximize the exinguishment capability. Also, many trucks have remote control front nozzles, but they are as effective as the whip lines in most cases. More about Texas wildfire planning, response, and training: http://txforestservice.tamu.edu/main/default.aspx?dept=frp http://www.teex.com/teex.cfm?pageid=ESTIprog&area=ESTI&templateid=1829

Here are some more shots. The Siddons Skeeter brush trucks are built right here in Texas, at a shop right outside San Antonio. They are built for use in Texas. The Siddons Skeeter is a division of Siddons-Martin Fire Apparatus, the local Pierce dealer. They produce about 40 units a year, and they bought this brush truck company in 2008 and it has evolved and grown. Some more info on Skeeter Brush Trucks: http://www.skeeterbrushtrucks.com

This should be nice-I didn't even know this project was still underway. It will make getting to Madison Square Garden and Penn Station for Amtrak, LIRR, and NJ Tranist trains much easier. FULL ARTICLE: http://www.lohud.com/article/20110412/NEWS01/104120331/1018/NEWS02/Tunnel-connect-Metro-North-riders-LIRR-Penn-Station

I've noticed a lot of other agencies are doing this as well. FULL ARTICLE: http://www.statesman.com/news/local/austin-police-ask-for-4-5-million-to-1409441.html

I would just like to reconize the outgoing Chief of the Yorktown Heights Fire Department, Martin Mcgannon, for his many years of service as Chief to the department. During his tenure, he made numerous accomplishments and improvements to the Yorktown Heights FD, including switching back to the color red, spec'ing and purchasing a new Ladder, Rescue, FAST Engine, and first due Engine, building the dive team from one trailer into a full water rescue team, giving strong support to the Explorer post, and many other accomplishments too numerous to list. I've known Martin both personally and professionally for over 10 years, and he is one of the nicest and most genuine people I know. I hope that he enjoys his "retirement" as Chief. Congrats to all the new officers, and I hope all will lead by the example set by Chief Mcgannon.

LoHud.com story: http://www.lohud.com/article/20110419/NEWS02/104190374/Smoky-fire-damages-cluttered-Pelham-home?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage From the photo, it looks like New Rochelle Ladder 12's stick was up, but Pelham Ladder 2 which also had the front of the building was still in it's bed? Wonder if this had anything to do with staffing levels in Pelham, not having enough firefighters first due to worry about getting the aerial up- however the driver got a good spot to get it up. Excellent use of ground ladders from what I could see. It may not have even been needed, but there's a lot of department's that go by the theory of getting as many aerials as you can on the building (i.e. Boston) Also looks like it was "Colliers Mansion" conditions. This comment is based on my interpetation of the photo and other knowledge, please feel free to correct me if I am wrong. I am not trying to "Monday morning quarterback", but I just strongly feel this highlights why Pelham needs more then 3 firefighters on a shift.

Last night, there was a small electrical fire at Sing Sing: http://www.lohud.com/article/20110418/NEWS02/104180354/Sing-Sing-fire-forces-middle-night-relocation-700-inmates?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage I just had a couple of questions. When I worked for Empress, we had the contract for Sing Sing EMS private emergencies. Even when we were going there for an MI, our vehicle had to be checked, and we had to be ID's, which took a little while-and that goes for leaving as well. Does Ossining FD have to go through the same check in procedure? Also, it mentioned prison firefighters. I assume that this refers to their in-house fire brigade? I know Ossining has trained extensively at Sing Sing, but I can't remember if they have any dedicated firefighters or equipment besides a equipment cart. And when evacuating that many prisoners, what danger does that place on Ossining firefighters?

Thanks guys for all the info!

I guess basements don't flood when you need them to!

Maybe I'm out of the loop, but does anyone know if Gerry McIlvain still teaches classes, or is still with Scarsdale FD?

I remember the days when everyone wanted to train in one of Gerry's classes. He had all his own stuff, and these were the days when DES had nothing and were barely teaching classes. He had a ton of his own equipment, as mentioned, and he used it- which was great. He was a valuable asset to that place at the time.

It should be emphasized that equipment swapover is a huge issue. Things like lightbars, cages, MDT mounts, etc won't fit the new Ford PI, and that it would cost a lot more to outfit new vehicles. Also, they want to thoroughly test all the new models coming out, to see which will fit their needs best- this goes for mechanics, many of which have Ford training and certifications, and for patrol officers. And it's the old addage....never buy the first model year of a car. I think also that the Michican State Police and California Highway Patrol extenively test police package vehicles, and their findings become a benchmark. I don't think that any of these new vehicles have gone through their paces yet on a track. Also, Texas DPS (Texas Highway Patrol) has ordered hundreds of Crown Vic's to stock up. It's my understanding that numerous other agencies are doing the same, and Crown Vic PI sales are some of the highest ever...which is why Ford is maybe dragging it's feet a little.