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I recently started working with a local firefighter who has started to branch out in developing his own training company. With the mass amounts of companies and organizations needing CPR & First Aid training and fire departments looking for reasonably priced rescue training this seemed like a great idea.
First In Rescue Training exists to provide advanced safety and rescue training through real-life techniques and strategies, following OSHA mandated guidelines and independent company procedures; in order to create the highest level of employee preparedness and safety within the workplace.
9/11 AMERICAN FLAG MEMORIAL, 8 a.m. Sept. 11, Fountain View Pavilion at Sun City, 12880 Del Webb Blvd., Huntley. The 10th anniversary program includes Marine Color Guard, Pledge of Allegiance, patriotic music, Taps, a narrative of the events of 9/11, Flag of Heroes, and more. The Warriors' Watch Riders will also participate in the ceremony. In case of rain, the event will take place in Drendel Ballroom.
9/11 MEMORIAL DEDICATION, 10 a.m. Sept. 11, Fire Station, 213 Spring St., Carpentersville. The Carpentersville Fire Department will host a dedication of the Carpentersville Fire Department Firefighter 9/11 Memorial during a ceremony. An open house will follow the dedication ceremony. Open to the public. Information: 847-344-7300 or jaschuldt@vil.carpentersville.il.us.
Effective July 22, 2010 it became illegal in Illinois to sell or distribute for retail novelty cigarette lighters (The Retail Sale and Distribution of Novelty Lighters Prohibition Act (720 ILCS 668). We seek your assistance in protecting children from the harm that these lighters may cause as children are attracted to the visual effects, flashing lights, musical sounds, and toy-like designs of these lighters.
A novelty lighter means “a mechanical or electrical device typically used for lighting cigarettes, cigars, or pipes that is designed to resemble a cartoon character, toy, gun, watch, musical instrument, vehicle, animal, food or beverage, or similar articles, or that plays musical notes, or has flashing lights, or has other entertaining features. A novelty lighter may operate on any fuel, including butane, isobutane, or liquid fuel.”
Fallen Axes Run
Hosted by the Ride for Boo/Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc.
Homewood, IL – April 2010 — Ride for Boo/The Brian Carey Memorial Fund, Inc. was established to facilitate donations to charities and organizations, to aid firefighters and their families in times of great tragedy, and to fund a scholarship in Brian’s memory.
Reposted with permission from on April 11, 2011
We received an order for a Firefighters’ Wives long sleeve shirt and a Firefighters’ Daughters tshirt a couple of weeks ago from a lady named Heidi in Kalispell, Montana. When USPS didn’t deliver her order on time, she emailed us. She was initially wondering when she could expect her order, but after emailing back and forth, we discovered there was more to her story than just her wanting to get her shirts. She needed the shirts for something important, something that unfortunately many wives across the country are probably familiar with. Heidi needed the shirts for her and her daughter to wear because her husband’s department in Kalispell is dealing with cutbacks and she wanted to show her support for her husband and the department.
Heidi’s story touched our hearts and we thought there were other families out there that can probably relate to her story and give her some support. We decided to interview Heidi to give her the opportunity to tell her story. Below is her interview.
Today, over 80 area public safety officials are attending the Autism Recognition Response & Risk Management Conference host by the Charlotte Police & Fire Academy.
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The rate of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has grown to one in every 110 births. Research shows that as emergency services personnel, your chances of encountering someone with autism has greatly increased. Special training has been developed in order to give you a better understanding of how to interact with children and adults who are affected by ASD. The NC Office of State Fire Marshal has partnered with the Autism Society of North Carolina and the Autism Research Institute to bring this training at a conference. (more…)
Fire safety is a topic that is too lightly covered, imho. The schools do fire drills and some schools will have firefighters come in and talk about safety but not enough is being done to teach kids what to do in a real emergency.
Here are some great ideas for promoting fire safety with children: (more…)
Just made a grocery list to prepare for the upcoming storm. There has not been a storm this bad in my lifetime in our area. Husband is scheduled to work on Wednesday during the worst of it.
See article below from Dailyherald.com
Coming storm could be bigger than the blizzard of ‘67
By Paul Biasco
Chicago meteorologists plan to bring cots and a change of clothes to work this week as a massive blizzard is expected to dump up to 20 inches of snow starting Tuesday.
A blizzard watch will be in effect starting Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday afternoon for all of northeastern Illinois, according to the National Weather Service.
Current forecasts predict about 20 inches of snow for portions of southern Cook, DuPage, Kane and Will Counties and 18 inches for most of northeastern Illinois.
“I wouldn’t want to be trying to get anywhere,” said Bill Nelson, Observation Program Leader for the National Weather Service. “We are planning on bringing in a couple of cots in case we get stuck.”
Light snow is expected to begin falling Monday night, but the heavy snowfall will begin falling midday Tuesday and through Wednesday afternoon.
Meteorologists predict the blizzard will produce whiteout conditions as 40 to 45 mph winds combine with snow falling at a pace of 2 to 4 inches per hour during portions of the storm, Nelson said.
The biggest storm to ever hit Chicago totaled 23 inches in 1967, but meteorologists predict the upcoming blizzard might break records.
“If everything pans out like we think right now, it will be right there at the top,” Nelson said.
The storm is expected to die down early Wednesday afternoon, but lake effect snow might persist into Wednesday night on the Illinois side of the lake before shifting into northwestern Indiana.
Meteorologists warn of “nearly impossible” travel conditions during the peak of the storm Tuesday afternoon and night and airlines have taken precautionary measures as forecasts come in.
Multiple airlines are relaxing their rebooking policies by offering travel waivers for passengers scheduled to fly to from or through O’Hare International Airport between Tuesday and Thursday.
Only two Chicago snowstorms have ever topped 20 inches, with the last occurring in 1999 when 21.6 inches fell between Jan. 1 and 3.
“As they say, stay tuned,” Nelson said.
Have you heard of Volunteers: The Series?
If not let me introduce you to my good friend Travis Boaz and his adventure in creating a television series dedicated to the volunteer fire service.
Here is a snippet of an interview they had with Loudoun Magazine that was featured in their July edition.
Q) Please provide a brief overview of Volunteers the Series.
A) We are a handful of dedicated volunteer firefighters/ems personnel, committed to telling the story of our sacrifice, passion and commitment to protect our home communities.
The series is footage taken from real emergency responses, and interviews of the volunteers involved. Through a combination of amazing response footage shot in HD (and incredible 1st person perspectives using helmet cameras), reality type day-to-day station life, and compelling interviews, we want to educate, entertain and captivate the viewing audience by telling this amazing story. With a unique 1st person live perspective and a personable firefighter who narrates the response, on-scene…as it is unfolding, we feel we are providing the viewing audience with something they have never seen before.
Q) Why did you decide to do this series?
A) We have a vision of making a difference in the volunteer fire service on a global scale.
It is our goal to increase public awareness and support by telling the stories of these brave men and women. We want to make a difference in each and every volunteer fire/ems house in the world. Whether it means increased donations or just shifting the public paradigm, our purpose is to see volunteer houses thrive, decrease LODD’s (line of duty deaths) and see that ALL volunteer companies have the funding to continue to properly support the communities they serve. If we can make a difference in just one volunteer fire/ems house, we feel we will have been successful!
Q) Do you have any other comments that you would like to share with me?
A) Well, the most important element of VTS is that it gives back to the volunteer system.
Our leverage with the tv networks is defined by the fans and supporters of the show. TV is about advertising dollars, and the more people that indicate they will watch the show (and endure the mindless commercials), the more willing a network is to air it.
I see this as a defining moment in the history of volunteer firefighting and EMS.
- In our vision for the future of VTS, we see the public understanding more about what we do, the sacrifices we make, and why we do it.
- We see volunteer departments that are struggling financially to stay afloat, benefiting from the increased understanding and awareness through more donations from surrounding communities.
- We see departments who do not have the appropriate protective equipment and tools, getting what they need, to respond more effectively.
- We see lines around the block at fire/ems stations, of people inspired by this story, who want to be part of our future, and join our ranks to become a volunteer firefighter or EMS provider.
- We also see a compelling story that is entertaining and inspiring, and will keep the viewer on the edge of their seat.
- We ask that anyone interested in supporting the volunteers, stand up and be counted at this moment. Help us make history, by indicating that you will watch the show, and that you support your local volunteer firefighters and EMS providers. This would be the resounding “thank you” to the volunteers who sacrifice so much time, selflessly putting themselves in danger to stand sentinel to protect our communities.
To show your support please visit Volunteers the Series and watch our series trailers. Spread the word to your family and friends and contact your favorite TV network and ask them to air the show. You can also reach us on Facebook
Thank you to the thousands of fans around the world that have joined the VTS revolution. It’s what lets us know that the hard work, money spent out of our own pockets, sleepless nights and endless editing will tell the story of the volunteers, the way it should be told. – Travis Boaz
VTS is entering the next steps in finalizing a deal for network distribution of the series.
Please enjoy the latest video and message posted on their Facebook Page…
“Please share this and don’t be shy about commenting. All we ask in return for our hard work to bring the show to the world, is that you all enjoy it, and click your “Like” button and comment, so we can show the networks that you guys are behind us! Thanks and enjoy! I finally completed the first episode to share with the networks for our upcoming pitch meetings. The full episode will not be available until the networks make a decision one way or the other (keep your fingers crossed). This is the last few minutes after the episode concludes. A little more behind the scenes stuff. You also will see a little throw back footage from the first episode, mainly he part that pissed so many people of about Firefighters running lol. I could not resist. I will release the full episode when I can, free of charge. You all have been very patient and I appreciate all the support from all over the world. Thanks! Enjoy it, share it and be safe!“
If you have enjoyed what you have read please LIKE there Facebook Page, leave a comment on their wall letting them know where you heard about them, and comment on their video to show your support of the series being shown on network television.
Often I have gone to sleep at night having watched the news about some fire where firefighters were transported to the hospital because of injuries. I know that this can be as simple as some smoke inhalation or as severe as a 3rd degree burn. Personally, I have only gotten a call once for my own husband being injured. He was on a call with a lady (let’s say a very very big boned lady) when he pulled out his back lifting the cot. Needless to say, he was down and out for about 4 days in pain and could barely walk. This little experience was an eye opener to me on how fast a strong fireman can be injured from a stupid mistake. I wanted to share a few different stories that illustrate just this…. (more…)
I wish I was more educated on the topic of pension reform but the more I look into it the more I just get irritated. Firefighters and Police Officers exist not for the everyday but for the “what if.” Yet, we need to compensate them for the everyday because we never know when that “what if” will happen. Additionally, these “what if” scenarios can be as simple as a downed power line to as complicated as a 3 car collision involving extrication and rapid medical care. (more…)
No motivation today. 7am mtg followed by 9 hours of staring at one Excel sheet.
All I could muster for tonights post was a picture.
Sharing a bit about who I am so if this gives it away please keep to yourself.
Enjoy
Kids Sledding Dec 2010
More resources from my post yesterday – Cyber Bullies - Reposted from Mashable.com
Originally appeared on My Life Scoop, where Mashable regularly contributes articles about using social media and technology for a more connected life.
Image Credit: bernov69
I read this great article today that my friend forwarded me from the NYTimes. She herself does not have kids, but thought of all her mommy friends that might enjoy the read.
As Bullies Go Digital, Parents Play Catch-Up
By JAN HOFFMAN
Published: December 4, 2010
Parents trying to protect their children from Internet bullying are scrambling to catch up with the technology.
The article talks about how tweens and teens are now being bullied in cyber space and how that is spilling into their reality. I was amazed at the amount of kids that had experienced this type of act in their young lives.
I consider myself pretty progressive in teaching my kids about technology and social media. They have a MAC, they each have an iPod, they play online social games like Farmville and Pet Pet Park, one of them has a Facebook page and they know how to use email. Even my 5yr old has his own email address to stay connected with Grandma across the U.S.
Yet, even I am failing at teaching my kids the reality of cyber bullying. They know all about stranger danger, dealing with real bullies, and even online predators. If you haven’t read anything about how to protect your kids from cyber bullying then this is worth your time.
One thing I do know from experience is that parents, teachers, and adults who don’t do anything to address the bullies just perpetuate the problem. It is more responsible to have a 5min awkward conversation with another parent than it is to deal with years of hurt and pain from your child or another child being bullied.
I know we will be having a family pow-wow soon about the topic in my own home and I encourage you to do the same.
Related articles
- How Much Do Your Parents Know About Your Life Online? (learning.blogs.nytimes.com)
- Stop Cyberbullying and Internet Predators with PC Pandora Monitoring Software During the 7th Annual Cyber Security Awareness Month (prweb.com)
- The Tricky Politics of Tween Bullying – TIME Healthland (debateopinion.wordpress.com)
- Randy Taran: Want to Stop the Bullying? It Starts at Home (huffingtonpost.com)
Are all people with faith judgmental, niece, jerks?
I consider myself a Christian, grew up in a conservative house, and live a life based on Biblical principles.
But just because I have faith that doesn’t mean that I have any right to judge those who don’t. I have been seriously bothered by the characters playing Christians in entertainment this past week.
One episode of The Office has a group of naive over excited college age kids heading out to a missions work trip while the other members of the church bitch and moan about there not being enough food at the baby dedication.
In the movie Easy A a school click of Christians say things and act as though they are better than others, that pity should be placed on anyone who doesn’t have faith.
Last time I checked Jesus wasn’t all about making people feel shitty and judged all the time.
I’m just saying that for people like me there is another side to who we are and how we live amongst other people. Not all of us walk around all day thinking we have all the answers, thinking we’re better than everyone, or even trying to sway you all to think the way we do.
There are people like me who have a strong faith and a love for others just the way they are.
I am feeling extremely frustrated today. I work at a job that is pretty insignificant, if you can image a really life Office Space that would be where I work. I had a co-worker accuse my of steeling Tylenol of another co-workers desk because apparently they didn’t hear me ask via im to have some. I must have missed the memo when they got promoted to cubical police.
I come home irritated burnt out, and wishing I worked with more intelligent people only to realize that the house is a mess, my firefighter is exhausted and we still have to run some errands. The whole time we are out mu husband is asking me if I’m upset, annoyed, irritated…of course I say no. I really don’t want to be. IN fact I am trying my best NOT to be. The questions just seem to grind at me.
Yet, the whole time I am trying to breath and trying to remember the blog post I read today by a fellow Fire EMS BLogger. They wrote a post today called Stains. It is a nitty gritty real life look at the emotions that I am sure my own husband goes through and never shares.
Here are just a few lines from the post….
“…at 6:45 in the morning, I can’t muster a smile. And you’d know why sometimes, even when I can, the smile always looks tired, and never quite reaches my eyes….”
“When it’s eleven patients and one medic, and the second-in unit is still five minutes away, you have to decide who can most benefit from your care. Reds are immediate, yellows are delayed, greens have minor injuries and a few of those will even sign refusals. Some of the sickest reds will be blacks by the time you get back to them. And the blacks… well, the blacks are just inanimate meat between you and your viable patients.”
“when we pulled her shattered body from the car, her head lolled back on her broken neck, wiping her blood-smeared hair down the front of my shirt.”
“And so I just stood there mutely as she sobbed into my chest, her fingers digging into my arms, tears soaking through the fabric of my shirt, searing my soul like drops of acid. And there was not one Goddamned thing I could do to make it easier for her.”
I was in tears by the end of the read. I wasn’t crying because I felt sad for the author, he was doing his job. I wasn’t crying because of the tragic situation because bad shit happens. I was crying because I realized my own selfishness in it all. His story was about not smiling at an ER nurse, but what does that mean about all the firefighter wives out there that have no clue what kind of shift their spouse has had to go through and then comes home and you treat him poorly.
It made me think I about all the times I have been annoyed about him being tired, crabby, quiet, withdrawn, aggravated, and so on.
Thus, thank you A Day in the Life of an Ambulance Driver for reminding me of my role in this relationship. Of reminding me what my husband goes through and how well he has adjusted to that job, that lifestyle.
If you are a firefighter’s wife and girlfriend and you have no clue what your spouse goes through in a given 24hr shift then you need to read that post and think about how you can be more selfless, because they real are giving everything they got for the job.
Day 1: As I begin this Holiday season I am thinking about the give and take between married people.
Even more specifically how I can give back to my firefighter this year.
I came across a cute quote that seemed very relevant.
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