April 2013 - State Firemen's & Fire Marshals'

ABOUT USExecutive Board / Executive Director’s Corner2012 - 2013EXECUTIVE BOARDPRESIDENTDAVID WADE3018 Eileen St.Deer Park, TX 77536-5022W: 281.478.7281C: 713.545.9299Email: dwade@sffma.org1 st VICE PRESIDENT BILL GARDNERPO Box 319Leander, TX 78646-0319W: 512.528.1664C: 512.845.9689Email: bgardner@sffma.org2 nd VICE PRESIDENT RUSTY KATTNER680 Fountain View Ln.League City, TX 77573-1971W: 409.925.7331C: 832.221.9533Email: rkattner@sffma.org3 rd VICE PRESIDENTPAST PRESIDENT4SECRETARYASSISTANTSECRETARYCHAPLAINEXECUTIVEDIRECTORMASCOTBOARDPARLIAMENTARIANPAUL HAMILTONPO Box 364Bushland, TX 79012-0364W: 806.364.7311C: 806.640.2195Email: phamilton@sffma.org4 th VICE PRESIDENT HENRY PERRYPO Box 88Bastrop, TX 78602-0088W: 512.321.5550C: 512.848.7319Email: hperry@sffma.orgJOE ONDRASEK5572 Caroline Dr.Bryan, TX 77807-7806W: 979.775.0194C: 979.820.1038Email: jondrasek@sffma.orgF. JIM WHITE304 E. Mundy St.Overton, TX 75684H: 903.834.3457Email: jwhite@sffma.orgBEN KENNEDYPO Box 11859College Station, TX 77842-1859W: 979.229.1263C: 979.458.4603Email: bkennedy@sffma.orgREX KLESEL3537 County Road 326Alvin, TX 77511-1564W: 281.331.7688C: 281.387.9967Email: rklesel@sffma.orgCHRIS BARRON4450 Frontier Trl.Austin, TX 78745W: 512.454.3473F: 512.453.1876Email: cbarron@sffma.orgBLAKE LOCKNANE7902 4 th St.Lubbock, TX 79416-6302Email: mjlock@xanadoo.comRAYFORD W. GIBSONPO Box 774Tatum, TX 75691-0774W: 979.229.8134H: 903.947.2831Email: rgibson@sffma.orgInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48Front row (Left to right): David Wade (President), Bill Gardner (1 st VP), Rusty Kattner (2 nd VP), Paul Hamilton (3 rd VP),Henry Perry (4 th VP) Back row (Left to right): Blake Locknane (Mascot), Rex Klesel (Immediate Past President), BenKennedy (Chaplain), F. Jim White (Assistant Secretary), Joe Ondrasek (Secretary), Chris Barron (Executive Director),Rayford Gibson (Parliamentarian)Spring 2013 is here and weare quickly moving throughanother year of projects,legislative session, etc. Bythe time you receive thismagazine the legislativesession will be nearingits end. We are watchingseveral bills this sessionthat could impact ourmembership and emergencyservices in Texas. T*Flag Chairman Dan Key willbe covering several of these bills in his article onpage 8.SFFMA has several projects we are working onthat have kept us busy. I’ll provide a summary ofseveral of the projects to let you know what allSFFMA is doing for you. I encourage you to takeadvantage of some of our benefits, membershipbenefit providers, and stay informed on things thatare going on in our state.SFFMA’s new office building construction isproceeding ahead of schedule. In the month ofApril we will see the foundation being pouredand the framing soon starting. The project hasgone well and hasn’t run into any major hurdles.We have recently installed a web camera onthe Manchaca Fire Department’s station (nextdoor) to allow for you to view the progress of theconstruction. Please go to our home page andclick the building progress button on the left handside of the website to view the latest pictures onthe project. If all goes as planned, the builders areexpecting a 9-month build time.Our database is undergoing an upgrade that willallow our membership more information, options,interaction with other members, staff, etc. Wehave implemented a new server that will allowfor a more stable environment, website contentmanagement, future growth/memory and fasteraccess to membership/certification records. Weare hoping this upgrade project will be done in thecoming months after thorough testing.Several grant programs are still underwayincluding the DHS Training Travel AssistanceGrant that was awarded to SFFMA for assistancein the travel costs associated with gettingfirefighters trained. A button is located on thefront page of our website to access the applicationfor this grant program. The Trusted ChoiceVFD grant program is a new grant programadministered by the Trusted Choice IndependentInsurance Agents of Texas. It provides VFDdepartments up to $5000 for equipment or fireprevention programs. The initial program has beenwell received and we have received numerousapplications for this program. (Grant applicationclosed on March 15th). The DHS Recruitment/Retention program that SFFMA was awardedcontinues with us purchasing air time across Texasin various markets to help local departments recruitnew members. We started 2013 with a mediacampaign run in the Panhandle area composedof billboards, TV airtime, and newspaper ads. Westill have recruitment/retention banners, posters,etc available to departments across Texas. Pleasevisit our website at www.volfire.com or send anemail to recruitment@sffma.org to request anymaterials. The materials are FREE!We have several new benefits that have beenrecently rolled out to our membership includingretail discount programs, several discountprograms on life and other insurance programs.The latest list of benefits can be found in thismagazine or on our website under the Join SFFMAtab.I encourage you to take advantage of the savingsthat our providers have to offer and the programswe have set up for you.I welcome you to contact our staff, myself or ourboard members at any time with suggestions,comments, etc about our association. Thankyou for what you do for your community and theemergency services of Texas.Chris BarronSFFMA Executive Directorwww.sffma.org

ABOUT USPresident’s Forum continued / Strategic PlanPresident’s Forum continuedgovernor, was on March 8 th .With the start of the LegislativeSession, the newly-createdTexas Emergency ServicesPolitical Action Committee (TES-PAC) started meeting weekly viaconference call.TESPAC was formed to providea political voice for the thousandsof emergency services personnelwho serve our state. Ourpurpose is to raise and distributefunds to support legislators andcandidates for public office whounderstand the importance ofpromoting and protecting individualswho serve as volunteerfirefighters, on EMS squads, andindustrial fire brigades. Not to beconfused with T*FLAG whoseduty is to study and take necessaryaction on such legislativematters as may come to theirattention; to initiate and promotesuch legislation as may be necessaryto preserve and promotethe best interests of the firefightersof Texas. TESPAC is trackingBills of interest and networkingwith fire service consortium partnersto support or oppose relatedBills. You can find more informationregarding TESPAC on thewebsite under SFFMA News.The SFFMA hosted the traditionalLegislative Day and FirefighterMemorial at the Capitolin Austin on March 20 th . Theday started early with the FireService Consortium LegislatureBreakfast sponsored by VFIS ofTexas. Legislation informationand discussion was provided bythe SFFMA, Texas Fire Chiefs,SAFE-D, TCFP, Texas A&MForest Service, and Texas A&MEngineering Extension Service.Trey Blocker continues to do agreat job as our lobbyist and presentedthe Bills we are supportingthis Session. He opened hispresentation by recognizing howmuch Steve Perdue is missed inAustin. This is the first Session inmany without Steve walking theCapitol halls and schmoozing thelegislators. Trey then introducedDan Key as the new T*FLAGChairman and touted his abilityto fill Steve’s shoes.The Legislative event continuedwith the Firefighter MemorialService on the south steps of theCapitol followed by a Pipe andDrum march to the FirefighterMemorial Statue for the unveilingof the inscribed names of theseven volunteer firefighters whodied in the line of duty in 2011and 2012. The Memorial waswell attended by LODD families,career and volunteer fire fighters,and Fire Marshals from all overthe State of Texas.Immediately following the Memorialwas the renowned catfishfry on the Capitol lawn for ourlegislators and their staff. Asalways, this was the highlight ofthe day for all.The remainder of the day wasspent visiting legislators or theirstaff members, to provide informationand flyers on Bills we askthey support.So as you can see it has been“fast and furious” for your ExecutiveBoard and state office sincethe Houston conference lastJune.We are doing things we think arein the best interest of your Association,will help us grow, andis for the betterment of the Texasfire service. As always, if youhave questions, comments, orideas, please feel free to contactany of your Board members orthe state office.In closing, I’d be remiss if I didn’trecognize all that you are doingto protect the citizens of yourcommunity and state. A majorityof the state continues to be indrought conditions with no end insight. As I write this article, manyareas of the state are alreadystarting to experience wildfiresrequiring mutual aid and statesupported response. I urge thatyou please be careful as you goabout your duties protecting lifeand property.Be smart, be nice, and staysafe…I look forward to seeing each andevery one of you in June at TheWoodlands!David WadeSFFMA President5 YEAR STRATEGIC PLANGOALS AND ACTION STEPSDiversify Certification Program(Certification Board)1. Develop CE for multiple groups2. Specialized Certifications3. Career Path4. Verification of CertificationsEngage Members(Executive Board and Staff)1. Leverage Technology2. District Symposium/Workshops3. Consider Publicizing Total Membership4. Welcome New Members on Website5. Executive Board out to Visit Around the State(staff as much as possible)6. Review and Communicate Roles and Responsibilitiesof Districts/Committees/Etc.Strengthen Partnerships(Executive Board and Staff)1. Attend Non-SFFMA Events2. Make Contact with County and Other Officials3. Develop Marketing Packages and Materials4. Recognize/Appreciate Current Partners5. Honorary Membership for OfficialsLegislative Engagement(Executive Board and Staff)1. Get the Certification Program recognized2. Educate New Legislators3. Work on 2604 Funding4. Continue to Monitor Actions of LegislatorsExpand Membership Types(Executive Board)1. Establish Committee2. Consider District Level AppointmentsConferences(Executive Board)1. Review Purpose and Goals2. Set New DirectionsIf you have any questions regarding these Goals and ActionSteps, contact any member of the Executive Board.6InfoFire Magazine / Vol. 47www.sffma.org

8ABOUT USCertification / T-Flag UpdateCERTIFICATIONPrevious Training not reportedcorrectly through SFFMA OnlineAs you’re probably already aware, someobjectives for levels already earned arereporting as not completed. A small portionof these objectives are due to the 2012realignment. The majority, though, are due toa programming change that is currently beingreviewed by the programmers.When the Certification Board realigned theobjectives to NFPA 1001, all Firefighter I objectivespreviously located in Advanced (nowModule 4) moved to Modules 1-3. The Boardis aware this change shows minor gaps intraining. The individual’s next level of certificationwill not be held for these objectives,but the Board expects that as professionals,the objectives will be covered in a timelybasis. Additionally, the individual will want tocover the training, because the informationmay appear on the Firefighter I or II exam asa requisite objective.For the objectives misreported as a resultof the programming error, we do have theprogrammers reviewing the issue. In themeantime, a quick fix is for the departmentto add four classes (one for each level: Intro,Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced), andmark the objectives as complete as they nowfall in the program. Please review the supportingpages 2-5 attached to the Firefighterapplication on the website (http://www.sffma.org/pdfdocs/certification/13_Modules.pdf).The pages show highlighted in yellow wherethe pertinent objectives now fall in the Modulebreakdown.Progress Reports (annual training summary)Reports were due on the January 31 st and wehave had an amazing submission rate. Sofar 518 reports have been filed for the 2012training year. Of these, 30 (6%) departmentssubmitted handwritten reports, and 4(less than .1%) submitted reports generatedthrough FireHouse. The vast majority (93%)submitted their reports using the SFFMAOnline program.The Certification Office staff would like tothank these departments for taking the time touse SFFMA Online, as review of the reportsbecomes significantly faster and easier.As stated previously, the Austin Office staffcan accept faxed or scanned signatures,which also speeds up the processing of applicationsand Progress Report cover pages.Please note that it is a requirement for alldepartments to show all previous trainingon progress reports, regardless of reportingmethod. We do accept and review reportsreceived after the January 31st due date, butmust charge the department a flat $25 late fee.Kevin CreamerCertification AdministratorInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48LEGISLATIVE NEWSThe 83 rd Legislature isin full swing as of thiswriting. Several billsare moving throughthe process thatcould have an effecton the Fire Service inTexas. We (T-FLAG,Trey Blocker, ChrisBarron and others)are watching thesebills and others thatmight be brought up. The budget debate isalso underway which will determine the levelof funding for 2604 grants. Sunset Committeerecommendations will affect the Fire Fighters’Pension Commission and other agencies.The Texas Commission on Fire Protection(TCFP) appears to still be moving under theDepartment of Insurance.I want to apologize to any of you who feelthat T-FLAG has not been kept informedduring this legislative session. The processhas only been getting up to speed for about 2weeks or so (early March). Prior to that a lotof procedural actions were taking place suchas committee assignments and bill writingbefore the deadline for submitting bills onMarch 8.We had a good turnout for Legislative Dayat the Capitol on March 20. The day startedout with a well attended breakfast sponsoredby VFIS of Texas. Good discussions aboutbudgets and bills were served up along withbreakfast. Representatives from SFFMA,TFS, TFCA and the TCFP were there.We moved from the breakfast to the Capitolto visit with House and Senate members andtheir staff to ask for their support on key billsthat relate to the Fire Service. The FallenFirefighter Memorial service was held andas usual it was a very moving service duringwhich 7 more names were added to the FFMemorial. Lunch for legislators and staff wasserved on the Capitol grounds after whichmore visits were made in the Capitol to finishup the day. I want to personally thank allof you who went to Austin for this importantevent.We are currently tracking about 10 bills asthey make their way through the process ofhearings, amendments, language changesand finally to calendars to be brought to thefloor of the House and Senate for debate,amendments, a vote and in some cases onto the Governor’s desk. We have a ways togo (regular session ends May 27 th ) so pleasedon’t feel left out. If we identify a bill thatneeds us to make calls or go to Austin for ashow of support I know I can count on you torespond.At this time (late March) the bill we arewatching closely is SB 766, VolunteerFirefighter Protection Bill; Senator Hegar.This bill will protect Volunteer FF’s from beingforced to be certified/licensed by any stateagency. This bill includes a definition of whata volunteer Firefighter is. It also will includelanguage to allow VFDs, ESDs, IndustrialBrigades and Fire Chiefs to set certificationrequirements for their individual organizationswithout state agency oversight.Other bills on our radar are listed below bynumber and sponsor followed by a shortdescription. You can go to Texas legislatureonline to look up more information aboutthese and other bills and where they are inthe legislative process.SB 1267/HB2751 (Sen. Nichols/Reps. Bell& Clardy) relating to liability of those providingassistance to TFS in the performance ofcertain fire suppression duties.SB 1405/HB 487 (Sen. Nichols/Reps. Bell,Clardy, Flynn, Guerra and Otto) relating toliability of certain persons assisting with manmadeor natural disasters.SB 1506/HB 3221 (Sen. Schwertner Rep.Springer) relating to fire safety inspections.HB 1429 (Rep. Paddie) relating to theexemption from certain construction requirementsfor VFDs in certain counties.HB 1531 (Rep. King) relating to the applicationof certain weapons laws to certainemergency services personnel licensed tocarry a concealed handgun.HB 2206 (Reps. Price & Flynn) relating tothe aurhority of a county to adopt a fire code.HB 2516 (Rep. Springer) relating to finesfor violation of a county regulation prohibitingor restricting outdoor burning.Please feel free to call on me for any questionsyou have. It is an honor to serve as theT-FLAG Chairman. I appreciate your continuedsupport.Regards,Dan KeyDan KeySFFMA- T FLAG Chairman2204 Pine DriveFriendswood, TX 77546Mobile 281-923-7670dannylkey@yahoo.comwww.sffma.org

ABOUT USMonument Expansion / In Memoriam / Memorial ServiceCAPITOL MONUMENT’S EXPANSION PROJECTSFFMA Needs YOUR Help!Constructed in 1896, the Volunteer Firemen’s Memorial on the Capitol’s south approachwas the second monument added to the Capitol grounds. Each legislative session,fallen volunteer firefighter names are added to the monument for those who gave theultimate sacrifice. 117 years later, the monument does not have any room left for namesto be added. SFFMA was responsible for erecting the monument in 1896 and has beenresponsible for approving names and paying for the engraving on the monument eversince. Unfortunately the time has come in which we must think about expanding thememorial so that more names can be added to the monument.In cooperation with the State of Texas Preservation Board (who has ultimate approvalof anything going on the Capitol grounds), a memorial expansion project is beingproposed which will include large pieces of granite and plenty of room for names to beadded to the monument for many, many decades.IN MEMORIAMNon-Line of DutyWilliam Allen Graham September 10, 2009HALLSVILLE FDFranklin Carl Craig December 19, 2010HALLSVILLE FDJames O. Reynolds May 18, 2012TRINITY VFDLarry Lee Blackwell September 4, 2012OLDEN VFDKenneth Ornell, Sr. November 26, 2012BEEVILLE FDJack A. Davis December 14, 2012ARCHER CITY VFDHarold Erman England February 4, 2013HALLSVILLE FDThis project will have to be paid by SFFMA and initial estimates indicate it will cost over$100,000 for all of the granite, installation, and site work. If the State Preservation’sBoard Board of Directors approves this project, we could get started as soon as wehave the funding and have it complete by the 2015 Legislative Session.HISTORYDuring the construction of the presentCapitol, on March 28, 1883, GovernorJohn Ireland approved an act passed bylegislature "to permit the State Firemen'sAssociation to erect a monument on theCapitol grounds." The law required themonument to cost at least $5,000 and"that the names of only those firemen whohave lost their lives in discharge of theirduty as firemen shall have their namesengraved on said monument."The Firemen's Association did noterect the monument at the time, probablybecause of the construction of the Capitol,and in February 1895 the legislatureamended the 1883 act to provide for theselection of a site for the monument.Jaeggli & Martin of Brenham contractedto build the monument and Frank Teichof San Antonio became the subcontractorfor the project. By May 1896, workhad begun to erect the monument onthe Capitol grounds. By late June, themonument was nearly completed, andthe Firemen's Association was planning adedication ceremony. After completion ofthe monument on June 30, it was "veiled"in sheeting and unveiled on the afternoonwww.sffma.orgof July 7, 1896 during a statewide meetingof the Firemen's Association in Austin.In place of the bronze statue of a firemanholding a baby on the monument today,the Firemen's Monument originally hada tall obelisk topped by a granite statueof a firemen holding a large fire hose.The obelisk and original granite statuewere replaced by the bronze statue,and the monument, rededicated in May1905 at another statewide meeting of theFiremen's Association in Austin. On thebase of the sculpture is stamped "MFD byW.H. Mullins, Salem, Ohio, J. Segesman,Sculptor.According to newspaper articles from theAustin Daily Statesman, dated July 7,1896..."the firemen will with much pompand glory unveil the monument in theCapitol grounds which has been constructedunder the personal supervision ofthe foremen's committee. These ceremonieswill be most imposing in everyparticular, and a chorus of 600 voicesaccompanied by a brass band and underthe leadership of Professor Besserer willrender some appropriate music. 106 firecompanies were represented."If you would like to make a donation for this project, please send your check payable toSFFMA Capitol Memorial Expansion Project4450 Frontier Trail, Austin, TX 78745We need to raise over $100,000 in order to pay for this project and can’t do it without YOUR help!Johnny Corbett February 7, 2013EL CAMPO FDDavid Hunter February 21, 2013EL CAMPO FDRodney Lynn Faist March 21, 2013BURTON VFDAnnual Memorial ServiceJune 23, 2013 - 10:30 AMIn order to acknowledge firefighters andfirst responders who passed awayin the past year, please provide theSFFMA office with thefollowing:- Name- Fire/ EMS Department- Date of Death- Did death occur in the line of duty?SUBMISSIONS AREREQUIREDNO LATER THANMAY 31, 2013Please email information tomemorial@sffma.orgInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 489

ABOUT USSFFMA International / EMS UpdateSFFMA INTERNATIONALIn January, SFFMA International had agreat turnout in McAllen, TX at the 2013SFFMA/TEEX International Conference.It was the first year ever held in the RioGrande Valley. We were hosted by theMcAllen FD, who provided excellenttraining and accommodated the SFFMAmembers with hands on training andinstruction. We would like to thank them forall their hard work and hospitality. Specialrecognition goes out to Chief Balderas,Lt. Rene Alaniz, DC Amado Cano, Capt.James Ferrell, Lt. Rolando Garza, Capt.Juan Gloria, DC Juan Jalomo, and DCJim Schultz from McAllen FD who helpedSFFMA put on this conference to generatefurther interest in the SFFMA InternationalProgram. We would also like to thank ourdedicated instructors Lt. Oscar Alaniz,Juan Caceres, Capt. Juan Gloria, Capt.Comado Martinez, and Lt. Tony Nelsonwho developed the courses for the ourmembers to participate in the training. Wehope to work with them again in the future,as they showed a tremendous amountof initiative and dedication to helping thisconference go well.McAllen, January 2013Although the Annual Conference is held inconjunction with TEEX’s Annual InstructorsMeeting and is held in Texas each year;SFFMA International Committee continuesto campaign outside the U.S and in borderregions of Texas promoting the servicesand events that we offer as an Association.SFFMA International is an importantbranch of the Association, because notonly does it have a growing membershipbase, it is solidifying the value of thestandards and education of the firefightersin Texas.The SFFMA Certification Program isbeing adopted in other countries, makingan SFFMA’s Certification more valuableworldwide, and SFFMA a more renownedorganization. The goal is to create aprogram that is convenient, inexpensive,and easy to follow for those who want topromote training and have a means oftracking progress in their country. It hasbeen a slow process getting this programorganized, as our own Texas CertificationProgram just adopted changes this year.However, the SFFMA Committee cansoon begin to set up the final curriculumand structure for our members to beginreporting training.Lt. Ian R. Moscoso from CloverleafVFD and Chairman of the InternationalCommittee campaigned at coursesorganized by EPA and the Department ofDefense. He provided training and spokeabout the benefits to be part of the SFFMAInternational this year in Presidio, andMcAllen, TX, in addition to the countries ofPanama and Bolivia.Presidio, TXSFFMA will be presenting their newlytranslated International CertificationProgram, courtesy of South Texas College,McAllen, TX during the Cumbre Americanade Bomberos, taking place July 3 rd -6 th . Wewill be promoting SFFMA membership andthe International Certification Program.This is a huge opportunity for the SFFMACertification program’s recognition toexpand to more Latin-American countries,and grow our organization and SFFMAInternational brand. For more informationon SFFMA International like us onFacebook “SFFMA of Texas International”,where we have pictures, and informationabout our annual conference available.SFFMA continues to work with TEEXduring their Annual Spanish School; thisyear is the 47 th Annual School whichbegins July 7 th through July 12 th , 2013.SFFMA will be attending and providingdiscounted materials and merchandise toour International Members. There are morethan 150 students, instructors both federaland state, which participate in this training.The SFFMA database will also beundergoing some upgrades and changes,so this will provide a better network forour international members to becomemore involved, and updated on SFFMAactivities.We hope that this year will bethe start of something very important forour International Members. It is with theirsupport and input that we can organizeand structure a program they can benefitfrom.Thanks to all of them, we willcontinue striving to makeSFFMA International asuccess!EMSHello fellow EMS’ers. Spring is in the air andthat means two things….No more winter!And it’s time for district and state meetings.We have had quite a winter up here in thePanhandle. While we have not had too manysnow days, the days we had packed a meanpunch with blizzard-like conditions severaldays. These are just some of the challengeswe all face on a daily basis.District meetings have already begun. I willbe out as much as possible, along with someof our other committee members, in attemptsto attend some of your meetings. We want tospread the word of EMS and gain new membersto our organization but we desperatelyneed your help. Please invite some EMSproviders to your district meetings to showthem the benefits of joining the SFFMA.Documents explaining our mission as well asthe outstanding benefits offered by our groupare available online or in print. So, if youknow a fire based EMS service or a standaloneEMS service that is not a member,invite them to join our great organization.Speaking of meetings, don’t forget our annualconvention will be held June 21-26 atThe Woodlands. Hotels are filling up fast somake your reservations early. Also, don’t forget,the cost of the registration for the annualconvention can be reimbursed by HB2604.We have some great training lined up atthe convention including an entire track forEMS. We have secured an emergency roomphysician, who is also a certified firefighter/paramedic, to provide some insight on careof the entangled patient. We also havelined up an excellent program on ambulancebilling options and a host of other fantastictopics. This will not be one to miss, sign upearly and stay late, it promises to be a greatconvention.Several great opportunities exist today torecognize some of our own that go aboveand beyond every day. One way is to nominatesomeone for the coveted EMS providerof the Year. This award honors those EMSproviders who exhibit outstanding dedicationand devotion to their chosen profession. Lastyear, Karen Pickard was honored to be therecipient of the very first award of its kind.Place those nominations now. Another wayto honor our finest is to nominate someonefor the State Department of Health ServicesEMS Awards. The nominations forms areavailable online and are due October 4 th .These awards are given out at the TexasEMS Conference which will be held this yearin Ft. Worth in November.As we go about our daily duties, let us notforget those that have preceded us andespecially those that have paid the ultimateprice. Last month, at the state Capitol, wehonored those that laid down their life forthat of another. It is my hope we never needto place another name on that wall. Pleaseinclude safety as a part of your daily duties.Remember to stay safe, wear your seatbelts,protect yourself, have an escape route, fightfrom the black, whatever you need to do……we need you, your family needs you, yourdepartment needs you to come home afterevery call, after every shift.See you in the Woodlands. Stay safe!!Tim Smith, BSN, RN, EMT-PFire Chief/EMS DirectorWest Carlisle Fire/EMSChairman Texas Emergency Medical Services Board10InfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48www.sffma.org

CONFERENCEFF/ EMS of The Year/ 2013 By-Laws ProposalFIREFIGHTER OF THE YEARNominee’s department MUST be a member of the State Firemen’s and FireMarshals’ Association of Texas.Nominee MUST hold current individual membership with SFFMA.Each nominee will be considered on a Point System to determine the threefinalists. The areas to be considered are:1) Leadership abilities includingLeadership positions heldWork knowledgeCommunicationsCreativity and InnovationAttitudeInteraction with others2) Dedication to training and/or introductionof new and innovative training methodsEMS RESPONDER OF THE YEARNominee’s department or agency must be a current Active Member of theState Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas.Nominees must be a current Individual Membership in the State Firemen’sand Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas.A nominee could be considered because of past heroism in an EMS-relatedact, act of bravery, dedication to training or introduction of new and innovativetraining methods.Leadership abilities to be considered are:www.sffma.org2013 ANNUAL AWARDS1) work knowledge,2) communications,3) creative ability,4) innovation,5) attitude,6) interaction with other people3) Involvement in SFFMA, both state and district level4) Community involvement, both church and civic5) Acts of heroism in a fire-related act or act of bravery6) Accomplishments/awards received7) Certifications held8) Letters of Recommendation (no more than 4 please)9) Pictures may be submitted (No more than 4 please)All nominations must be submitted to local Districts by a fire department onor before the District’s Spring meeting. Submissions must be received witha letter from the fire department and signed by Fire Chief, Assistant Chief orPresident.One nominee from each District should be submitted in a sealed envelope tothe state SFFMA office no later than the 4 th Monday in May. Submissions mustbe received with a letter from the District and signed by the District Presidentor Secretary.The state SFFMA office will log in the submissions as received and leave thesubmissions unopened. The FFOY committee will meet during the last weekof May to open the submissions and to select the three finalists based on theabove criteria. The nominees will be notified of the results.The three finalists will be interviewed by the FFOY committee on Saturdaymorning at the state convention. All nominees will be recognized andthe winner will be announced on Sunday at the 1 st Business Meeting. Allsubmissions will be returned to the Districts after the state convention.Community involvement considered, either church or civic.A nominee should be considered for the committees he/she may havechaired or served on and how these committees functioned under his/herguidance.Nominees will be considered on a point system, giving points for theircontributions in the above various areas.There will be a personal interview conducted with the top three finalists.To win the State Award as EMS Responder of the Year, nominees do nothave to be an agency officer or chief.All nominations for EMS Responder of the Year must be submitted to a localDistrict Association, on department or agency letterhead and signed by thedepartment or agency chief officer or executive, assistant chief or executiveand/or department or agency President.The district offices will conduct submissions of District nominations to theSFFMA State Office. Submission of wining nominees must be on a districtletterhead, and/or signed by the President or Secretary of the district.One nomination from each District President/Secretary shall be submittedto the SFFMA State Office by fax, email, or postal mail by the 4 th Monday inMay.Copies of Certificates and pictures may be included (but no more than four(4) of each).DEADLINE IS MAY 27, 2013.2013 BY- LAWS PROPOSALBy-LawsARTICLE VII - Nominations of Officers andSelection of Meeting PlaceCurrent Reading:Section 1. Nominations of all officers and mascots shallbe made at the hour designated on the official AnnualTraining Conference and Convention program, during thebusiness session of the second day of the annual conference.Proposed Change:Section 1. Nominations of all officers, mascots and meetingplaces shall be made at the hour designated on theofficial Annual Training Conference and Convention program,during the first (1st) business session of the of theannual conference.2013BLONDY RUCKER MEMORIALGOLF TOURNAMENTJUNE 24,2013River Plantation Golf Course550 Country Club Dr.Conroe, TX 77302Registration Fee: $75 per playerTo register contact Lang Flisowski atspankylang@hotmail.comInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 481PMPUMPER RACESPlease note that the pumper races will be held Saturdayafternoon. Please be sure to register your teams early.Anyone needing copies of the Six Ladies or Three LadiesPumper Team Rules, you can go to the websitewww.SFFMA.org and click on Convention News, then clickon Women's Pumper Races Contest Rules.If you would like a copy of the rules mailed to you, pleasecontact 1 st Vice President Pam Maples at 713-594-2787or email at momonthego@swbell.net.11

ARTICLESFire Sprinklers in New Homes / State of Texas CO-OP Purchasing12Fire Sprinklers in NewHomes: Why shouldfirefighters care?By Maria FigueroaFire Sprinker InitiativeCommunications Project ManagerInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48Fire in the home poses one of thebiggest threats to the people inyour community. Nearly 2,500people per year, on average, die inU.S. home fires. Last year, 83%of people who died in fires, didso in one- and two-family homes.Sixty-seven percent of all residentialstructural fireground firefighterdeaths occurred in one- and twofamilydwellings.Sprinkler advocates across thecountry, including the fire service,asked for a coordinated effort toencourage the use of home firesprinklers. NFPA launched thateffort through the Fire SprinklerInitiative®: Bringing Safety Homein 2009.Starting in 2006, NPFA 1 FireCode, NFPA 101 Life SafetyCode, and NFPA 5000 BuildingConstruction and Safety Coderequire fire sprinkler protectionin all new one- and two-familydwellings. Since 2009, all modelsafety codes require fire sprinklersin these dwellings. Model codesrepresent minimum standards ofsafety to protect the people andthe responding fire force in theevent of fire in the home. Amendingthese codes by removing therequirement results in substandardhome construction.Opponents have launched anaggressive campaign to keep therequirement out of the code. Theirmisleading arguments have beenrefuted by scientific research; butthey have sometimes prevaileddue to their political power andinfluence. To overcome thispowerful opposition it is imperativethat firefighters understandthe importance of the requirement,embrace it, and assist in engagingand providing factual informationto stakeholders.Home fire sprinkler systems arevastly different from commercialsystems. NFPA 13D, Standardfor the Installation of SprinklerSystems in One- and Two-FamilyDwellings and ManufacturedHomes covers “the design,installation and maintenance ofautomatic sprinkler systems forprotection against fire hazards”in these structures. They arecost effective and efficient lifesafety systems designed to preventflashover and improve the chancefor occupants to escape or beevacuated. Of special interestto the fire service is the addedprotection that fire sprinklersprovide to firefighter safety. Theyprotect structural stability, allowingfire crews to conduct searchand rescue operations and performan offensive fire attack in a moretenable atmosphere.NFPA 13D requires only thestandard operating water pressureof the domestic plumbing system.Most domestic water supplysystems are able to manage theoperating pressure demands of ahome fire sprinkler system. Communitiesintegrating residentialfire sprinklers with water supplysystems employ practical solutionsthat satisfy the needs of allstakeholders.Opponents of the home fire sprinklerrequirement claim that smokealarms provide enough protectionin the home. Fire deaths decreasedconsistently after the requirementof interconnected, wired smokealarms in new construction. Aplateau was reached in the early90’s and the maximum benefitsof smoke alarms alone have beenachieved.Sprinkler systems provide additionalbenefits, on top of thebenefits already provided bysmoke alarms. Smoke alarms andsprinkler systems work togetherto provide protection in the homethe same way that seat belts andair bags provide protection in theevent of a motor vehicle crash.Opponents of residential firesprinkler systems also like to boastthat newer homes are safer homesand that the fire and death problemis limited to older homes. Statistically,the only fire safety issuethat is relevant to the age of thehome is outdated electrical wiring.Beyond that, age of the home haslittle to nothing to do with firesafety. A fire at two-o’clock in themorning is equally deadly in anewer or older home.In fact, new methods of constructionnegatively impact occupantand firefighter life safety under fireconditions. In 2008, UnderwritersLaboratories® (UL) conducteda study to identify the dangerto firefighters created by engineeredlumber. Its findings alsopoint to the failure of lightweightengineered wood systems used infloors and roofs when exposed tofire. These structures are prone tocatastrophic collapse as early assix minutes from the onset of fire.Lightweight floor assembliesand roof trusses are not the onlydanger to firefighters found in newhomes. Passive protection of theseassemblies will not solve the problem.The synthetic construction oftoday’s home furnishings also addto the increased risk by providinga greater fuel load.Larger homes, open spaces, voidspaces, and changing buildingmaterials contribute to fasterfire propagation, shorter time toflashover, rapid changes in firedynamics, shorter escape timeand shorter time to collapse. Firesprinklers can offset these increaseddangers and create a saferfire environment for occupantsand responding fire crews.An NFPA study conducted in 2009found that the cost of installinghome fire sprinklers averages$1.61 per square sprinklered foot(SF) for new construction. To putthe cost of a sprinkler system intoperspective, many people pay similaramounts for carpet upgrades,granite countertops, paving a stonedriveway, or a whirlpool bath. TheFire Protection Research Foundationreleased the Incentives for theUse of Residential Fire SprinklerSystems in U.S. Communitiesreport revealing that typical incentivesoffered by communities mayoffset up to one-third of the cost ofhome fire sprinkler systems.In addition to the life safetybenefits provided by home firesprinklers they reduce the averageproperty loss by 69% per homefire. Home fire sprinklers alsoprotect the environment, reducingcarbon emissions by up to 98%.Water conservation is anotherbenefit of home fire sprinklers.Sprinklers flowing for ten minutesrequire up to 90% less water thanwater used by firefighter extinguishingmethods. Water infrastructuredemand is reduced atleast 47% when the homes withina community are protected by firesprinkler systems.Home fire sprinkler requirementsare not intended to replace the fireservice. Adopting these requirementshas allowed the fire serviceto keep up with growth, and tocontinue to provide an appropriatelevel of service, which manytimes translate into savings fora community. Most importantly,it reduces community risk andprotects new housing stock forgenerations to come.NFPA has developed a free PowerPointpresentation highlightingthe threats of lightweight constructionmethods and firefighter safety.For additional information, torequest the free presentation, and toaccess reports cited here and otherresources, please visit the HomeFire Sprinkler Initiative: BringingSafety Home website: http://www.firesprinklerinitiative.orgState of Texas CO-OPPurchasingDear Fellow Texans:Under Texas State law, volunteerfire departments have the option tojoin the State of Texas CooperativePurchasing Program and purchasegoods and services at discountprices. Since 1979, this program hasallowed local government and certainassistance organizations to leverage thepurchasing power of the State of Texasto save millions of dollars throughoutthe entire purchasing process. Wehave recently become aware that manyvolunteer fire departments in the Stateare not familiar with our program.Over the next few months, we will beusing a variety of means to reach out tofire departments like yours, includingthe State Firemen's and Fire Marshals'Association of Texas’s newsletter; don’tbe surprised if you hear from us again.The State of Texas has a dedicateddivision within the Comptroller’s officethat is responsible for centralizing over$13 Billion of State purchasing. Wealso administer contract monitoringand management, which means thatyou can save time on the procurementprocess and have more time to focuson your core business. Because ourcontracts have already been awardedthrough a competitive bidding process,purchasing from our contracts satisfiesany State bidding requirementsyour department is required to meet.Through the Co-Op program, yourdepartment can receive the sameState of Texas pricing for the morethan 1 million commodities availableon hundreds of contracts. Items oncontract include (but are not limitedto):• Tires• Vehicles• Heavy Equipment• Office Supplies• Fire Protection Equipment andSupplies• A fuel card that pays a rebate for fuelpurchased• Computers• Cell Phones and Service Contracts• Copiers and other office equipment• FurnitureNote that due to legislation, volunteerfire departments are not currentlyeligible to make use of our travelcontracts.Please see the following link forinformation about the program,including links to contracts offered:http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/coop/Please contact the Co-Op team if youhave any questions at 512-463-3368.Thank you.State of Texas CooperativePurchasing Teamwww.sffma.org

www.sffma.orgARTICLETetraKORURAL TEXAS FIRE DEPARTMENTS LOOK TO ENHANCETHEIR WILDFIRE RESPONSE CAPABILITIESTetraKO Wildfire Protection System and newly announced Texas Community Enhancement Funds.The large-scale damage causedby wildfires in the state of Texasand across the country havebecome more frequent – the statewill never forget the nearly fourmillion acres burned in 2011.And from January 1, 2013 toFebruary 28, 2013, Texas ForestService and local firefightersresponded to 923 wildfires. Asthe 2013 wildfire season heatsup, federal and state fire officials– and local rural fire departments –are exploring ways to prepare forthe inevitable battles to come asthey also face budget challenges.One new funding source for ruralfire departments involves recentlyannounced Community EnhancementFunds (CEF), whichwill become available later thisspring through the Texas AgCommissioner’s Office. This programprovides a source of fundsnot available through other Stateof Texas Community DevelopmentBlock Grant Programs.These 100% reimbursementgrant monies are being set-asideprimarily for rural communities,and the amount of each grant isbetween $100,000 and $350,000.The grants are ideally suited forrural Texas fire departments thatdesire to ramp up their wildfireprotection capabilities.To be eligible for CEF monies,the project must be a communityfacility project, renewableenergy project, or a combinationof the two that can demonstratea benefit to all citizens withinthe jurisdiction. The communityapplicant must meet the Low andModerate Income (LMI) nationalobjective for its entire jurisdiction(at least 51 percent LMI).These grants provide an avenuefor rural fire departments to obtainenhanced wildfire protectioncapabilities.TetraKO testing at TEEX included three separatetrials of TetraKO released from the Fire Bossaircraft tank, including a Level 1 coverage drop,a Level 3 coverage drop and, finally, a full Salvocoverage drop. TetraKO clings to trees, bushes andgrasses and won’t fall to the ground, and can beapplied to wildfires from air, truck or backpack.New Wildland FirefightingSystemThere is a new wildland firefightingsystem, with strong connectionsin Texas, which is alreadypre-approved for the CEF monies.At the heart of the system isTetraKO water enhancer, a newproduct that has been extensivelytested in Texas.TetraKO’s technology is biodegradableand non-toxic, and hasproven to be far superior in fightingfires to plain water and ClassA foam because its proprietarydual thickening agent allows it toadhere and stay where applied.When heated by fire, TetraKObecomes even thicker and releasesa cooling steam, dramaticallyaiding in fire suppression.TetraKO is the first product ofits type that contains no superabsorbent polymers.Tested at TEEXAs part of TetraKO’s researchand development process, awhite paper was prepared for theInternational Association of FireChiefs (IAFC). The white paperwas requested after members ofthe IAFC Technology Committeeand Wildland Policy Councilattended two days of TetraKOtesting at the TEEX BraytonFire Training Field. The fireknockdown tests demonstratedthat TetraKO yielded a significantadvantage over water andfoam. (A download of the IAFCwhite paper is available at www.TetraKO.com.)“Having this white paper writtenand presented to the IAFC TechnologyCommittee – followinga full complement of testing atthe TEEX Brayton Fire TrainingField – is the type of performancevalidation of TetraKO weseek out,” said Scott Bocklund,TetraKO, LLC president. “Whencombined with real world resultsobserved by our Peer Group firedepartments and other firefightingorganizations, it confirmsTetraKO water enhancer as aTetraKO’s technology is biodegradable and non-toxic, and has proven tobe far superior in fighting fires to plain water and Class A foam because itsproprietary dual thickening agent allows it to adhere and stay where applied.game-changing, bio-based technology.”Day one of the testingperformed at the TEEX ProductDevelopment Center consistedof TetraKO aerial drops – consistingof level 2, level 3, andfull salvo drops – with attendeeswitnessing the technology beingdropped from an aircraft andproviding a consistent coating onvegetation and sensitive fuels.Day two featured identical 10' x10' pod burns comparing Tetra-KO side by side with plain waterand Class A foam for knockdownperformance. The result: fireknockdown testing found thatTetraKO yielded a nearly 91%efficiency increase over wateralone, and an 86% increase overClass A foam.Tested by HotshotsTetraKO has been positivelyevaluated by California Hotshotcrews from Los Angeles Countyand the Mountains Recreationand Conservation Authority forwet fire line and fuel coating,knockdown and mop up, ease ofuse, and clean up. A video of theCalifornia Hotshot crew testingcan be viewed at www.tetrako.com.ments to develop an integratedfirefighting package that exploitsthe many firefighting benefitsof TetraKO technology. Theproducts include the TetraKOTurboMixer system, the TetraKOWildland Skid, and TetraKOpowder concentrate.The TetraKO TurboMixer is anengineered, assembled systemthat facilitates large-batch mixingof TetraKO powder concentrateinto water – for storage in thesystem tank, or immediate offloadingof mixed TetraKO solutioninto any fire apparatus.The TurboSkid Unit is designedfor placement on the flatbed of apickup truck or on a trailer. TheTurboSkid comes equipped witha 200-gallon tank, and an 18 hpWaterous pump. Unique to theTurboSkid is its ability to rapidlymix TetraKO while a vehicle isin route to an incident. Turningon the system just prior todeparture initiates mixing; theTetraKO will be ready for useupon arrival. With the TurboSkidand TetraKO water enhancer,a firefighter possesses the besttool for laying a wetline, coatingstructures, and directly taking thehead out of a fire.As part of a promotion to introducethis program, the first 50Texas fire departments that applyand qualify for funding will receivea bonus of on-site trainingand a supply of TetraKO waterenhancer powder to provide theequivalent of 5,000 gallons ofmixed solution, or the equivalentof nearly 50,000 gallons ofwater.By adhering to vertical surfaces andsmothering the fire, TetraKO can knockdownfire faster and more effectively than water,traditional Class A foam and compressed airfoam (CAF) or gels.More About the New SystemThe TetraKO Wildfire ProtectionSystem originated in response torequests from Texas Fire Depart- continued on page 35InfoFire Magazine / Vol. 4827

CONFERENCE COURSE DESCRIPTIONSSATURDAYJune 22, 2013NO CERTIFICATESAVAILABLE FOR SATURDAYVENDOR WORKSHOPS10:00 - 11:00 AMNew Car Technology! Does YourDepartment Have What it TakesKirby Wilson, Jr.Wilson Fire/ RescueNew car technology, rescue tools, andcomputer training programs per NFPA.11:00AM - NOONSaving Money with the State ofTexas CO-OP ProgramBryant ClaytonTexas Comptroller of PublicAccountsAttendees will be given general informationabout the State Co-Op program includingeligibility requirements, program objectives,and tips about how to use the co-op toconserve department funds.1:00 - 2:00 PMFireHouse/ Fire Recovery USABringing Revenue to your FD/Funding AlternativesMike Rogers/ Allison Dean -FireHouse SoftwareBringing Revenue to your FD/ FundingAlternatives.2:00 - 3:00 PMBilling for Services, Inspectionsand Fire Department CostRecoveryMeredith Doty - INTERMEDIXBilling for Services, Inspections and FireDepartment Cost Recovery.MONDAYJune 24, 201310 - 11:45 AMG E N E R A LResponse SafetyRobert Averitt - TEEXPRE-REGISTRATION ISREQUIRED. MAX. # OFATTENDEES 12.Driving Simulator Theory.Simulator Driving will take place on Mondayafternoon.F I R E F I G H T E R INo Hydrant! No Problem!Michael E. Norman - District ChiefBastrop FDDiscuss water shuttle operations withTenders and portable tanks in the rural orsuburban settings.www.sffma.orgL E A D E R S H I PLeadership - Inside OutCaptain Gilbert T. BennettHouston Fire Department/ TEEXThe Physical - Mental - Spiritual aspect ofLeadership as an OfficerS A F E T YBack Pain: Everything YouThought You Knew Is WrongJohn HofmanSacramento Fire DepartmentThis lecture will cover many commonailments that are specific to firefighterswho have low back pain and howthey are brought on by overuse, poorcompensation, and improper motorpatterns. Specific focus will be providedto hip and thoracic mobility and how toproperly strengthen the core to help withinjury prevention.T E X A S LODDT A S K F O R C EHonor Guard 101 - A (Part 1)JoAnn LinnenkugelTxLODD Task Force/ Honor GuardSocietyHow to form your department honor guard,brainstorming session.E M E R G E N C YM A N A G E M E N TEOC Fire Desk OperationsMike Montgomery - Fire Marshal -Harris CountyMark Sloan - EMC - Harris CountyCoordination between on-scene response/IC and county emergency operationscenter. Emphasis on use of a Fire Desk inthe EOC.P U B L I CR E L A T I O N S/M E D I ANew Media and Social Media -What a Firefighter Should KnowJohn Pape - Editorial Directorfor Neighborhood Media NewsServices (Houston)The class is designed to provide therecruit, in-service firefighter or veteran fireofficer with the skills needed to effectivelydeal with the demands of dealing with thenews media, as well as the emerging useof social media as a communications toolfor a fire department.CERTIFICATIONTEXFIRSVirginia Garza- Program Manager SFMOInstruction on TEXFIRS/ NFIRS reportingand program updates.1 - 2:45 PMG E N E R A LImproving Your ISO PublicProtection ClassificationPhillip Bradley - ISOThis guided program will provide anupdate on the newly revised FireSuppression Rating Schedule. The revisedFSRS will reflect the latest trends in fireprotection by referencing current NFPA,AWWA and APC standards.F I R E F I G H T E R IFire BehaviorAssn. Chief - Chris AndersonSanta Fe Fire/ RescueThis session will cover the followingSFFMA objectives: 15-01.01 - 15-01.10L E A D E R S H I PThe Cutting Edge CommandOfficerEdward Hadfield - Chief OfficerFiretown Training SpecialistThe Cutting Edge Command Officersprogram will give the student the skillsets and techniques which will makethem successful in their jobs and foryour organization. It provides the newlypromoted Command Officers with theknowledge to be successful in theirposition.S A F E T YFirefighter Safety, How Are WeDoing?Ronnie Sexton, Loss PreventionTraining Specialist - TMLIRPThis session will discuss current fireservice injury trends and root causes offirefighter injuries.T E X A S LODDT A S K F O R C EHonor Guard 101 - B (Part 2)JoAnn LinnenkugelTxLODD Task Force/ Honor GuardSocietyFlag Etiquette, ceremony and drill practice.E M E R G E N C YM A N A G E M E N TIncident Action PlanAl Guarino - District CoordinatorTexas Department of Public SafetyThis session will discuss Incident ActionPlanning and when written plans areneeded and what forms are included withinthe plan.CONFERENCECourse DescriptionsP U B L I CR E L A T I O N S/M E D I ABasic Steps for a SuccessfulMedia InterviewFrancisco Sanchez, Liaison & PIOLt. Dean HensleyHarris County Office of HomelandSecurity & Em. Management, HCFMOAs news goes 24-hours and expandsso does the need for hard news andthe fire service is hard news. So howdo you survive a media interview? Thispresentation will teach you how.CERTIFICATIONFirefighter Certification Careervs. Volunteer?Mike Montgomery - Fire Marshal -Harris CountyProvides a comparison of firefightercertification programs in Texas and theU.S.3 - 4:45 PMG E N E R A LEmergency Response at Oil and GasExploration and Production SitesWilliam G. Burket, CFPSRange ResourcesProvide information on the process,hazards, and potential emergenciesassociated with the development of an oilor gas well.F I R E F I G H T E R IThe HazMat ResponseDeputy Chief Robert “Andy” Dexter LPKlein Volunteer Fire DepartmentDetails components of the responseto a hazardous materials incident toinclude discussions on safety, hazard/risk assessment, response, and availableresources.L E A D E R S H I PFire Instructor WorkshopDanny Hurt, Training Officer -Pleasant Grove FDRayford Gibson, TEEXRemember the first day you began yourcareer in the fire service? Somewherein the back of your mind is probably agreat fire service instructor. He or shejust may be the person who introducedyou to the greatest job in America. Fireservice instructors are the guardians ofknowledge, skills and ability in the fireservice - their knowledge is wrapped up ina long tradition that has served manyInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 4829

CONFERENCECourse DescriptionsMONDAYJune 24, 20133 - 4:45 PMgenerations of firefighters well. Asprotectors of that tradition, instructors lookto and rely on creativity while constantlystriving to perfect training. In thisworkshop we will cover three areas: LegalIssues, Disruptive and Unsafe Behaviorsin the Classroom, and Today’s AdultLearners Generation X, Y and the BabyBoomers.S A F E T YSelf-Safety- the Effects ofCritical Incident StressJ.C.”Skip” Straus - CEO& SeniorChaplain - Emergency MinistriesA one hour look at signs & symptoms ofCritical Incident Stress and ways to avoidit. Also discussed are how to recognizesigns in a co-worker.T E X A S LODDT A S K F O R C EDepartment LODD Prep ClassWendy Norris - Tx LODD Task ForceLearn what your department may need inthe event of an LODD or serious injury fortheir members. This course will present:Basic Planning, Benefit Overview andCaring for Survivors.E M E R G E N C YM A N A G E M E N TEmergency Management andFire DepartmentsAl Guarino - District CoordinatorTexas Department of Public SafetyThis session will discuss the functions ofEmergency Management organizationsversus Fire Departments functions andoperations, how they can complimenteach other through comprehensive threatanalysis/ response capabilities and theprocess for requesting assistance from theState of Texas.P U B L I CR E L A T I O N S/M E D I AThe Media & Today’s MediaEnvironmentFrancisco Sanchez, Liaison & PIOLt. Dean HensleyHarris County Office of HomelandSecurity & Em. Management, HCFMOWho is the media? Understanding themedia and their role in public safety. It willreview media formats and basic elementsof the news business that fire servicepublic information officers should know.CERTIFICATIONCertification WorkshopCertification Board RepresentativeWorkshop attendance is a requirement forall Certification Coordinators as continuingeducation in order to maintain thedepartment’s participation status within theCertification Program. Full Coordinatorsare required to attend a workshop onceevery two years, and provisionally certifiedCoordinators are required to attendannually.TUESDAYJune 25, 20138 - 9:45 AMG E N E R A LWhy Your Fire DepartmentNeeds a ChaplainChaplain Jimmie DuncanTexas Corps of Fire ChaplainsWhat a chaplain can do for yourDepartment, how a Chaplain fits into the16 Health Safety Initiatives. Networkingwith the Texas Corps of Fire Chaplains,Networking with the Federations of FireChaplains. The link between the TexasLODD Task Force and the Chaplains.INDUSTRIALChemical Warehouse FiresR.W. “Bob” Royall, Jr.W.T. “Bill” HandHarris County Fire Marshal’s OfficeThis workshop will use a series of shortcase studies to illustrate the manychallenges that first responders facewhen called upon to battle a chemicalwarehouse fire. The protection of Life,Property, and the Environment translatesinto what do we need to do to protect thehealth and safety of our responders, whatactions are needed to limit the amountof damage, and how do we minimize theenvironmental impact? Come hear someof the lessons that have been learned.FIREFIGHTER IICritical Thinking of FiregroundOrganizationRussell Johnson - Battalion Chief -San Antonio VFDThe course will use and compare the RiskManagement Profile and the FiregroundFactors to help develop a Strategy. Themost important part of this class is theCritical Thinking and the SituationalAwareness that is taught. We will alsodevelop and practice initial reportsincluding size up, and initial assignments.This course correlates with NFPA 1001.WILDLANDFire Adapted CommunitiesJustice Jones - State WUICoordinator Texas A&M ForestServiceThis session will address the coreelements of the national cohesive strategyfor empowering communities to becomeadapted to withstand wildland fire,enhance firefighter safety in the WUI andthe fire service role in natural resourcemanagement.CERTIFICATIONCOORDINATORCertification WorkshopCertification Board RepresentativeWorkshop attendance is a requirement forall Certification Coordinators as continuingeducation in order to maintain thedepartment’s participation status within theCertification Program. Full Coordinatorsare required to attend a workshop onceevery two years, and provisionally certifiedCoordinators are required to attendannually.L E A D E R S H I PEncourage the Heart ofTomorrow’s LeadersBobby Mims - Battalion Chief,Carrollton Fire Rescue (Retired)Adjunct Instructor with TEEXThis session is designed to encourage thefire service leaders of today to inspire andencourage the leaders of tomorrow andto provide them with some practical waysto do it.EMSFirst RespondersErnie Cantu - Education Coordinator,East Texas Medical Center - EMSDiscuss the critical things first respondersprovide for responding EMS units.S A F E T YAddressing the Top 3 AccidentCauses in the Fire & EMSServicesJohn W. Hicks, OHST - TexasMutual Insurance CompanyDiscuss the top 3 accident causes inthe Fire and EMS service and ways tominimize them.10 - 11:45 AMG E N E R A LAssessing Your Readiness toPursue Employee SurveysMichael DeSousa - SeniorConsultant, CPS HR ConsultingA step-by-step process to determine ifyour fire leadership is ready to meet theresource and decision commitmentsrequired for “best practice” survey projects.INDUSTRIALPipeline Emergency ResponseR.W. “Bob” Royall, Jr.W.T. “Bill” HandHarris County Fire Marshal’s OfficeThis interactive workshop will cover manyof the challenges faced by first responderswhen they roll up on a pipeline incident.Critical questions might include; whatmaterial is involved, who is the owner/operator, who do I call for help, whereis the release headed, and what are myresponse options? Come learn from othersand share your own experiences.FIREFIGHTER IIInspectionsJimmy Williams, Laurie ChristensenMontgomery County Fire Marshal’sOfficeInspections of Daycares/ ResidentialBoard & Care Facilities.WILDLANDTFS Fire Reporting and FireDepartment DirectoryDon Hannemann,Texas A&M Forest ServiceOverview and instruction on enteringwildfire incidents into TFS Fire Reporting,dispel common misconceptions about thereport, and look at other functions of theFire Department Directory.CERTIFICATIONCOORDINATORCertification Written TestingCertification Board RepresentativeThe written portion of the testing is opento all individuals certified at the Module3 or 4 level to test toward their full FFIor II certification. FFI exams consistof 150 multiple-choice questions fromModules 1 - 3. FFII exams consist of 75multiple-choice questions from Module 4.Skills demonstrations are to be handledseparately.L E A D E R S H I PBest PracticesBetty Wilkes - Executive Director,Texas Fire Chiefs AssociationTexas Fire Chiefs Association’s BestPractices Recognition Program.This program consists of 12 areasof concentration: Administration andOrganization; Emergency Medical Service;Training; Special Operations; Records andInformation Management; Fire Operations;Fire Prevention/ Risk Reduction/ Community30InfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48www.sffma.org

CONFERENCECourse DescriptionsOutreach; Response Analysis; Communications;Safety and Health; ResourcesManagement; Professional Standardsand Conduct (see page 35 for moreinformation)EMS11 Tips for Selecting an Ethical,Profitable Ambulance BillingCompanyChristopher Turner - President andCEO, Emergicon, LLCThis is an unbiased guide to selecting atrustworthy and knowledgeable ambulancebilling services company that will boostyour budget and provide quality customerservice. Topics include: Days to bill,commercial insurance payments, denials,claim follow-up, days to payment.S A F E T YEmergency Service UTV/ ATVSafety ProgramRoy Mercer - Director ofEducation, VFIS of TexasUtility Terrain vehicles (UTVs) andAll-Terrain vehicles (ATVs) continue togain wider acceptance and use in theemergency service. They have givenorganizations a less physically demanding,more rapid and effective response toemergency incidents and special events.Adding UTVs and ATVs to the ESO’sfleet provides a great benefit but also canpresent safety issues if those using thevehicle have not been properly trained inthe operations and maintenance of thesetypes of vehicles. Training in the useof these vehicles should be part of theorganizations commitment to safety. Thisintroductory program is designed to reviewskills sets necessary for the use of thesespecialty vehicles.1 - 2:45 PMG E N E R A LClandestine Labs/ CriminalHazMat ResponseConsiderations for Fire & EMSElizabeth Morris - Firefighter,Brazos County Pct 3 VFDThis presentation targets Fire/ EMSpersonnel and others in emergencyresponse who may encounter incidentsinvolving criminal use of hazardousmaterials. The material will focus onrecognition, protection, and life safety.INDUSTRIALIndustrial and MunicipalInterfaceChief Craig Shelley &Chief Sue TarantinoIndustrial Emergency ServicesHow do municipal fire departmentsinterface with industrial fire brigades andwhat do municipal fire departments needto know to successfully handle fires atindustrial facilities? We will explore theseand other questions regarding responseto industrial incidents whether they bein-plant emergencies, pipeline incidents,or well sites.FIREFIGHTER IIDeveloping a Fire Fit EmployeeEdward Hadfield - Chief Officer,Firetown Training SpecialistUtilization of the principles and thefoundational elements of OperationalFitness, Mobility WOD and proper mealplanning and fundamental nutrition hasproven to be one of the best ways in whichto address the ever increasing problemof obesity and poor overall fitness andconditioning in the American fire service.WILDLANDFire Department AssistanceJason KeininghamSteve PollockTexas A&M Forest ServiceGeneral discussion regarding opportunitiesavailable via TFS Fire DepartmentAssistance Programs.CERTIFICATIONCOORDINATORCertification Coordinator 101Kevin Creamer - CertificationAdministrator, SFFMAThis course is intended to provide morein depth understanding of not only thepractices of the Certification Office, butwhy certain requirements are in place.Subjects include: application completion;training documentation/records retention;personal information; as well asexamination eligibility and procedures.L E A D E R S H I PThe Volunteer Company OfficerDeputy Chief Robert “Andy” Dexter LPKlein Volunteer Fire DepartmentProvide for an interactive discussion asto the cornerstone of the fire service,the Company Officer. The successesand failures of this critical position willdetermine the outcome of the volunteerfire department.EMSField EMS Care of theEntangled/ Entrapped PatientDuring ExtricationTaylor Ratcliff, MD, FF/ EMT-LPEmergency Physician - Scott &White HealthcareSession will discuss care of the trappedpatient that cannot be transported.Presentation will use a case basedapproach including entrapped vehiculartrauma, crush or collapse, etc. Alsodiscussed will be advanced care conceptsincluding establishment of regionalprotocols to care for these patients.S A F E T YCourage To Be Safe (Part 1 of 2)Dennis GiffordLumberton Fire & EMSThe “Courage To Be Safe” course is aprovocative and moving presentation thatis designed to change the fire serviceculture of accepting the loss of firefightersas a “normal occurrence”. Building onthe untold story of LODD survivors, itreveals how family members must livewith the consequences of a firefighterdeath and provides a focus on the needfor firefighters and officers alike to changeour basic fundamental safety attitudesand behaviors in order to prevent lineof duty injuries and deaths. The centraltheme promotes the “courage to do theright thing” and promoting a new culturethat allows and encourages everyone tobe more observant and willing to shareeveryday safety concerns in order toprotect themselves and other firefighters toensure that “Everyone Goes Home” at theend of the day.3 - 4:45 PMG E N E R A LTCFP/ SFFMA Panel DiscussionTCFP/ SFFMA RepresentativesPanel Discussion with TCFP/ SFFMARepresentatives.INDUSTRIALMajor Incidents of the Past &Maybe in Your FutureWoody Cole - Corporate Safety &Health Manager, Calpine Corp.A review of some of the largest industrialfires that have occurred on the HoustonShip Channel.FIREFIGHTER IIUpdating Tactics for the NewReality of Modern Fire BehaviorLieutenant Jason HearnsbergerThe Woodlands Fire DepartmentHigher fuel loads, Better Insulations,Lightweight construction, Open Layouts,Hotter Fires, Faster flashovers. These arejust a few of the realities facing firefightersin the modern world. This class examinesthe science behind modern fire behaviorand how it differs from past generations.Recent research into ventilation-limitedcompartment fire development is showingus that our tactics need updating. Newtactics based on flexible evaluation of keyfactors will improve firefighters’ ability tosave lives and property while increasingfire ground safety.WILDLANDFirefighter Safety in theWildland Urban InterfaceJustice JonesJared KarnsTexas A&M Forest ServiceThe Firefighter Safety Series is a multipartinformation package from the NationalWildland/ Urban Interface Fire Program.It addresses problems faced by structuraland wildland firefighters when fightingfires, especially those threateningstructures in the wildland/ urban interface.An important goal is to improve knowledgeof issues that impact firefighter safety andsurvival.CERTIFICATIONCOORDINATORCertification Coordinator 102Kevin Creamer - CertificationAdministrator, SFFMAThis course covers use of theSFFMA Online program for new andexperienced users. Topics for reviewinclude: roster maintenance; invoicing;training management; reporting; andtroubleshooting.L E A D E R S H I PCommand Decisions forClandestine LabsElizabeth Morris - Firefighter,Brazos County Pct 3 VFDThe presentation targets Chiefs, Captainsand others in emergency response whoseresponsibilities may require committingresources to incidents involving criminaluse of hazardous materials. Resourcesinclude personnel, apparatus andequipment.EMSMedical Legal - An ExpertWitness PerspectiveJay D. Cloud - Professor, SanJacinto College Central/ Deer ParkVFD (retired)The concepts of medical legal issuesin EMS will be discussed, including anoverview of common mistakes.S A F E T YCourage To Be Safe (Part 2 of 2)Dennis GiffordLumberton Fire & EMSSee part 1 of 2 for description.www.sffma.orgInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 4831

ABOUT USDistrict Officers Listing1 - CENTRAL TEXAS DISTRICTHerbie Vaughan - PresidentRockdale FD1176 Country Road 333Rockdale, TX 76567-4204Phone: (512) 446-2930Timothy Mantey - SecretaryRocky Creek FD9771 Longpoint RdBurton, TX 77835-5637Phone: (903) 399-0049Email: tmmantey@yahoo.com2 - GUADALUPE DISTRICTBrian Deason - PresidentStockdale FD603 S 7th StStockdale, TX 78160-6031Phone: (830) 391-4743Email: bdeason4200@yahoo.comSteven Simpson - Secretary150 Tomahawk TrlSeguin, TX 78155-6951Phone: (830) 379-0309Email: simpson107@att.net3 - TRI-RIVERS DISTRICTTito Rodriguez - PresidentClute FD735 Arbor StClute, TX 77531-3717Phone: (979) 236-6704Email: favff_tman@yahoo.comMichelle Cornell - SecretaryTri-Rivers FFMA1940 Melody LnRichmond, TX 77406-2412Phone: (281) 468-3150Email: mcornell@lcisd.org4 - SOUTH CENTRAL DISTRICTJason Deleon- PresidentSinton FDPO Box 3955Sinton, TX 78387-0955Phone: (361) 364-2381Email:jasondeleon@texdot.govElena Sanchez - SecretarySinton FDPO Box 652Sinton, TX 78387-0652Phone: (361) 364-2381Email: esanchez1019@sbcglobal.net5 - RIO GRANDE VALLEYDISTRICTRC Flores - President112 W 8th St.San Juan, TX 78589-2619Phone: (956) 227-4360Email: rcflores1@yahoo.comMaricruz Tovar - SecretaryEdinburg FD212 W McIntyre StEdinburg, TX 78541-3340Phone: (956) 383-5661Email: mtovar@cityofedinburg.com6 - GULF COAST DISTRICTTito Rodriguez - PresidentClute FD735 Arbor StClute, TX 77531-3717Phone: (979) 236-6704Email: favff_tman@yahoo.comMichael Richter- SecretaryNeedville FDPO Box 374Needville, TX 77461-0374Phone: (979) 793-4262Email:richtmic@co.fort-bend.tx.us7 - EAST TEXAS DISTRICTPhillip Kibodeaux - PresidentChina FDPO Box 724China, TX 77613-0724Phone: (409) 651-6463Email: pkibodeaux121@aol.comDennis Gifford - SecretaryLumberton Fire & EMS115 Candlewick DrLumberton, TX 77657-7291Phone: (409) 755-6031Email: dennismgifford@aol.com8 - NORTHEAST TEXAS DISTRICTGlenn Johnson - PresidentCenter FDPO Box 291Center, TX 75935-0291Phone: (936) 598-3622Email: rgj410@yahoo.comF. Jim White - SecretaryOverton FD304 E Mundy StOverton, TX 75684-1734Phone: (903) 834-3457Email: jwhite@sffma.org9 - NORTH TEXAS DISTRICTKevin Ray - PresidentPO Box 198Covington, TX 76636-0198Phone: (254) 854-2422Karen Pickard - SecretaryOvilla FD307 E University StOvilla, TX 75154-3401Phone: (972) 617-7375Email: karen.pickard@utsouthwestern.edu10 - RED RIVER DISTRICTThomas Smead - PresidentVernon Fire/ EMS2738 Oaklawn Dr.Vernon, TX 76384-6417Phone: (940) 553-1782Email: ksmead@vernontx.govJohn Roberts - SecretaryArcher City FDPO Box 367Archer City, TX 76351-0367Phone: (940) 574-4545Email:john.roberts@sheppard.af.mil11- MID-WEST DISTRICTStephen Jones - PresidentAnson FD2051 County Road 498Anson, TX 79501-6346Phone: (325) 823-2256Email: ssj310@gmail.comSteve Cochran - SecretaryMerkel FD100 KentMerkel, TX 79536-3612Phone: (325) 928-4725Email: stevec@taylortel.net12 - PANHANDLE DISTRICTKelly Vandygriff - PresidentAbernathy FD1511 Avenue MAbernathy, TX 79311-2451Phone:(806) 298-4053Email: chief90382@aol.comKristin M. Schumann - SecretaryDalhart FD110 Denrock AveDalhart, TX 79022-2622Phone: (806) 244-5454Email: txfirewoman91@yahoo.com13 - PERMIAN BASIN DISTRICTTodd Lee - PresidentSeminole FDPO Box 163Seminole, TX 79360-0163Phone: (432) 209-2230Keith Mensch - SecretaryDenver City FDPO Box 115Denver City, TX 79323-0115Phone: (806) 592-5426Email: kmmensch@valornet.com14 - HILL COUNTRY DISTRICTCourtney Ischar - PresidentBallinger FD900 Country Club Rd.Ballinger, TX 76821-2218Phone: (325) 365-5137Brent Allen - SecretaryBallinger FDPO Box 227Ballinger, TX 76821-0227Phone: (325) 365-5137Email: ballen@ballingerfd.com15 - WINTERGARDEN DISTRICTJunior Bosquez - PresidentPleasanton FD311 Virginia St.Pleasanton, TX 78064-2647Phone: (830) 569-2813Email: bosquezauto@yahoo.comJerry Rust - SecretaryVal Verde County Rural VFDPO Box 421314Del Rio, TX 78842-1314Phone: (830) 774-7640Email: valverdecountyfire@stx.rr.com16 - NORTH CENTRAL TEXASDISTRICTJeff Edwards - PresidentMillsap FD1851 Newberry RdMillsap, TX 76066-2535Phone: (817) 694-4347Email: je4201@gmail.comChristopher Gable - SecretaryErath County Vol Fire Rescue1120 Timber Ridge DrStephenville, TX 76401-7778Phone: (254) 965-3388Email: cglg03@embarqmail.comIf your District listing is not up-to-date, please email gglass@sffma.org.District Report Template for the 2013 Proceedings Book can be found by theDistrict Officers Roster at www.sffma.org32InfoFire Magazine / Vol. 48www.sffma.org

AGENCY NEWSVFIS of Texas, the leading providerof insurance for Emergency ServiceOrganizations in Texas, is proud to welcometwo new sales associates, David Hubbard andRandy Teeter, to their organization.David is Chief of Santo Fire/EMS in PaloPinto County and sold fire equipment forNorth American Fire Equipment Company.He has been active in the fire service in Texassince 1990 and is passionate about all facetsof the fire service. He will handle the NorthCentral part of the state.Randy Teeter is the Chief of New Deal Fire/EMS in Lubbock County and is a licensedParamedic and RN. He has been involved inthe fire service for over 36 years. Randy willservice the Panhandle area while also sellingfire equipment for Casco Industries.Barbara Marzean, President of VFIS of Texasstates, “We feel that it is very important forour sales associates to live in the area that theyservice in order to provide a higher level ofexpertise to our clients because they are morefamiliar with their neighboring emergencyservice organizations. Adding David andRandy to our team will enable us to be moreavailable to our clients and their needs.”Having sales associates involved in the fireservice, familiar with the issues their clientsface and being able to meet with their clientsface-to-face is a key aspect of their success.VFIS of Texas serves over 1,200 emergencyservice organizations in Texas. They areinvolved in all of the state, district andlocal emergency service associations andsupport legislative issues that benefit ourstate’s fire/EMS organizations. They alsoprovide extensive education, training andsafety materials/classes, regularly send outinformational e-newsletters, provide losscontrol services to a significant number oftheir clients, and distinguish themselves in theindustry with their expertise and promptnessin paying claims. The associates at VFISof Texas have a deep respect for emergencyservice organizations and enjoy serving theirclients each day.VFIS of Texas also said farewell to a belovedassociate, Mike Barton, Chief of EagleMountain Fire/EMS. Mike was recently hiredas a full-time paid chief at Eagle Mountainto best meet the demands and changeswithin his growing department. Mike willbe tremendously missed by VFIS of Texasassociates and their clients alike.www.sffma.orgHIGHWAY SAFETYIt has been a long time coming, but firefightersnow have the rights to shut down roadways duringemergency operations. A new law concerningclosure of roadways by firefighters in Texasbecame effective September 1, 2011.Working on roadways has become an increasinglydangerous situation for public safety personnel.The increase in population coupled with thedevelopment of road-rage has placed numerouspublic safety personnel at risk. Effective September1, 2011, firefighters now have the right toshut down lanes of traffic if it becomes a risk tothem or their crews while working an accident ora fire along the roadway. The law is under TransportationCode Sec. 546.007 and states:(a) This section applies only to a firefighterwho is employed by or a member of:(1) a fire department operated byan emergency services district;(2) a volunteer fire department; or(3) a fire department of a generallawmunicipality.(b) A firefighter, when performing thefirefighter's official duties, may close oneor more lanes of a road or highway toprotect the safety of persons or property.(c) The closure shall be limited to the affectedlane or lanes and one additional lane unlessthe safety of emergency personnel operating on the road or highway requires morelanes to be closed.(d) In making a closure under this section, thefirefighter shall deploy one or more authorized emergency vehicles with audible andvisual signals that meet the requirements ofSections 547.305 and 547.702.Remember, this rule applies to general-law cities.These are:“Cities are classified as either "general law" or"home rule". A city may elect home rule status(i.e., draft an independent city charter) once itexceeds 5,000 population and the voters agree tohome rule. Otherwise, it is classified as generallaw and has very limited powers.”Now that your personnel have the rights to shutdown roadways, remember that this rule is onlyone portion of your tool kit.We all have the responsibility to make ensurethat personnel conducting roadway operationswear the appropriate protective clothing. Bunkersare great for firefighting, and are legal to wear forthese operations along the roadway, but reflectivematerials on the coat and pants must be seenvisible. Clean your gear regularly.If bunkers are not required, vests must be worn.It is the law. According to Federal regulation23 CFR 634 that became effective November2008 personnel should be wearing a Type IIor III reflective vest meeting ANSI-107-2004high visibility garment standard. Also, not onlyshould your personnel be wearing the appropriatereflective materials but your apparatus should bereflective as well, front bumper and back chevronsand side stripping. All should be a priority,as identified in NFPA 1901.ARTICLESVFIS of TexasOther important factors to consider earlynotification and temporary traffic controlzones. Early notification is one key to successwhen working around or in the roadway.Warnings or notifications should be placedin all directions of the roadway where roadsintersect around the incident. Topography is agreat concern when working at a scene. Stopand look around upon arrival to a scene, ifyou can’t see upstream or downstream traffic,the drivers can’t see you either. Something tokeep on the forefront; drivers can’t see overhills or around curves and have sight impairmentduring adverse weather conditions,which puts you and your crews at risk.Deploy Early traffic warning signs,.Florescent pink signs displaying “EmergencyIncident Ahead” can have a Classification Brating which are for higher speeds and areeasily deployed by public safety personnel.I encourage working with law enforcement,if necessary, to accomplish these tasks. Anexample; if your fire units arrive first, radioyour local law enforcement agency whereto place the signs. If your law enforcementarrives first, they should radio responding fireunits where to place the signs. You can findregulations for sign usage at http://www.txdot.gov/txdot_library/publications/tmutcd.htm.Yes, this is a recommendation that both agenciespurchase signs. Remember, we all have ajob to perform, but want to go home after theincident. We are there to accomplish our tasksin a safe manner by reducing the seriousnessof the situation, not make it worse.The foundation of the safety zone lies withthe temporary traffic control area aroundthe incident itself. Placement of trafficcones, which most of us do a great job onthe upstream side, is known as the transitionarea. Equally important is the buffer area,situated between the transition area and theincident, activity area, termination area, anddownstream side of the incident and/or scene.Placement of traffic cones tells other drivershow to proceed around your scene and whento re-enter the normal lane of traffic. Additionally,public safety personnel should considerthe cones as an identifier for a safe work area.If someone steps outside of the cone area theyimmediately step into a high hazard zone.Placement of traffic cones for a temporarytraffic control area can also be found at http://www.txdot.gov/txdot_library/publications/tmutcd.htm.Needless to say, much more can be discussedon this subject. The purpose you and yourdepartment are on location is to help, not tohamper the situation. More information canbe found at www.vfis.com andwww.respondersafey.com.Roy C. MercerDirector of Training,Education and SafetyVFIS of TexasInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 4833

ARTICLESTFCA Best Practices / TetraKOThe Texas Fire Chiefs Association(TCFA) has developed a bestpractices program to encouragefire departments in Texas to seekcontinual improvement in theirservices to their local community.There are 12 chapters that definebest practices in the typicalservice areas provided by a firedepartment. This program isapplicable to paid, combination,and volunteer fire organizations.The TFCA encourages firedepartments to pursue this thirdpartydesignation by completingthe performance requirementsoutlined in the program. This willbe a challenging but worthwhileendeavor for organizationspursuing this designation.The TFCA encourages firedepartments to also pursueaccreditation through the Centerof Public Safety Excellence. TheTFCA Best Practices program willhelp facilitate progress towardnational accreditation for thoseseeking this designation.The TFCA worked closelywith progressive fire officersBEST PRACTICESRecognition Programthroughout Texas to create aprogram that defines a pathwayto organizational excellencethat ultimately enhancesfirefighter safety, long-termplanning, standard operatingguidelines, deployment analysis,risk management and otheradministrative functions.While most communities believetheir local fire department isexcellent, elected officials, citymanagers, fire chiefs and citizenshave the opportunity to verifythis belief by their fire departmentattaining this best practicesdesignation. It is always preferredto have an independent thirdparty determine if an organizationfunctions at a defined level ofexcellence.The TFCA Best Practices programprovides a pathway for a firedepartment to push its level ofservice to a level of excellencethat is validated by independentexperts. This designation willdemonstrate to customers ofthese organizations that their firedepartment is among the very bestin the Texas fire service.12 AREAS OF CONCENTRATIONAdministration and OrganizationEmergency Medical ServiceTrainingSpecial OperationsRecords and Information ManagementFire OperationsFire Prevention/Risk Reduction/Community OutreachResponse AnalysisCommunicationsSafety and HealthResources ManagementProfessional Standards and ConductRECOGNITION PROGRAM ANNUAL FEESDEPEND ON THE SIZE OF THE DEPARTMENT.For more information, visit www.bestpracticestexas.org or contact Betty Wilkes,executive director, Texas Fire Chiefs Association at 512.294.7423 or at bwilkes@texasfirechiefs.org. Letters can be mailed to: PO Box 66700, Austin, TX 78766*SFFMA will offer the Program Overview as a Training Workshopin the Woodlands. (see page 30)continued from page 27Tested At the Possum Kingdom(PK) Complex FiresThe following are observationsfrom the chief of fire operations atSanto Volunteer Fire and EMS onthe performance of TetraKO at thePK Complex fires:We cover the southeast corner ofPalo Pinto County, and PossumKingdom (PK) is up in the northwestcorner of the county. Our departmentwas part of the responseto the infamous PK Complex fires,made up of the combined Hohertz,Jackson Ranch, PK East, and PKWest fires.The morning of April 18th, whenwe had the big blow up, the TetraKOteam had set up shop outsidethe incident command post.I had taken over command of thePossum Kingdom East portion ofthe fire the night before from ChiefRanft of the PK Fire Department.When Chief Ranft came back onduty at 8 a.m., he asked me to stayand work operations. When I wastaking a break, I saw the TetraKOteam mixing its product and gettingset up, so I spoke with them.They were batch mixing andloading TetraKO into vehiclesfor anyone in the command areathat wanted it refilled into theirtanks. What a lot of these firefightersstarted to use TetraKO forwas structural protection andpretreatment. That’s what one ofour engines ending up doing. Itold our guys to go over and haveour truck filled with TetraKO andto use it for structural protection,mop up and pretreatment.We saved quite a number ofstructures, and TetraKO did agreat job. The thing I found as thebiggest benefit of TetraKO is thatit holds the moisture longer andholds up better than Class A foam.TetraKO is thicker in the firstplace and holds on to the surfacebetter than Class A. I watchedthem use it and I got feedbackfrom the guys on the engine. Theyall spoke very highly about theTetraKO!When you start talking about pretreatmentand structure protectionaround buildings, and for otherapplications such as well sites,fence lines, or anything like that– I’d say it would work real good.After the PK fire, I didn’t hearanything negative from homeownerson washing TetraKO off theirhomes or vegetation.TetraKO needs to be shown tosome of the fire departments inour county. Many of us seek outmutual aid, we’re progressive,and we look for anything that cangive us an advantage!Logan Loftin, Chief of Fire OperationsSanto Volunteer Fire andEMS DepartmentFor more information on the TexasCommunity Enhancement Funds, theTetraKO Wildfire Protection System, andto see videos of TetraKO in action, callTetraKO president Scott Bocklund at612-423-4916 and visit www.tetrako.com.e-INFO FIRENEWSLETTERState Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ Association of TexasTo receive your monthlyelectronic newsletter, emailyour contact information tonewsletter@sffma.orgwww.sffma.orgInfoFire Magazine / Vol. 4835