*The Heights Hoseline* - News and Updates from the WHVFC
I'm Still Here, and so is Washington Heights!! - 8/27/15
Fans and Visitors of the Official WHVFD Site,
First and foremost, for those of you who follow this page regularly (You guys are awesome!), I would like to apologize for not posting anything in just about three months. I recently got hired as a career firefighter, and have been very busy and focusing most of my time and energy on that (Gotta make a living, right?). I did recently build a new rig (Below) that is modeled off of my first due Engine at work.
Washington Heights is still around! I recently dusted off my rigs and tinkered around with them for a bit the other day. The future for the WHVFD beholds numerous rigs including a spare aerial, spare TAC, more support pumpers, the possibility of stations and finally some EMS rigs. For now, things will remain dormant until Fall sets in, as things will be slowing up at work, and my girlfriend will be off at College. Until then, I thank you guys for your continued support and questions, it really means a lot! Lego will always be a big part of my life so rest assured I'll be back soon!
Best Regards,
Tim Joseph
First and foremost, for those of you who follow this page regularly (You guys are awesome!), I would like to apologize for not posting anything in just about three months. I recently got hired as a career firefighter, and have been very busy and focusing most of my time and energy on that (Gotta make a living, right?). I did recently build a new rig (Below) that is modeled off of my first due Engine at work.
Washington Heights is still around! I recently dusted off my rigs and tinkered around with them for a bit the other day. The future for the WHVFD beholds numerous rigs including a spare aerial, spare TAC, more support pumpers, the possibility of stations and finally some EMS rigs. For now, things will remain dormant until Fall sets in, as things will be slowing up at work, and my girlfriend will be off at College. Until then, I thank you guys for your continued support and questions, it really means a lot! Lego will always be a big part of my life so rest assured I'll be back soon!
Best Regards,
Tim Joseph
Heights FF's March in WH Memorial Day Parade - 5/25/15
This past week, members have been busy preparing for the annual Memorial Day Parade in town. It was decided that Engine 1-12, Tower Ladder 4-12, TAC 1-12, and Engine 4-12R would participate in this years event. The apparatus were washed and waxed, chrome polished, wheels touched up, hose packed neatly, tires shined, and had American Flags attached to them to honor our fallen veterans who fought and lost their lives defending this great nation. Firefighters marched in front of the apparatus sporting banners and a color guard, while the cadets threw candy to the children. Afterwards, everyone met back at the Company Two fire station for a cookout and music. Thanks to all who participated and to all of the men and women who served!
High Fire Danger For Memorial Weekend - 5/23/15
The fire danger Sunday is listed as high for a majority of New Hampshire. For many people, this is the first busy weekend of the camping and summer season, so, the Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Department is urging people to be careful around the campfire.
The Washington Heights Fire Department is urging people to be cautious this weekend. LT. Frank Carter of the WHVFC said calls for outside and brush fires peak starting Memorial Day weekend. "Any time you have an outside fire, you can't take your eyes off of it," Carter said. "You got to be constantly aware of things that are going on, and what's happening around you." |
Grilling Safety Tips for Coming Summer Season - 5/18/15
Fire in the grill, under hot dogs and burgers, is a welcome sight at the family cookout. But fire anywhere else can make your summer kick-off barbecue memorable for all the wrong reasons. The following are tips from the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) and the Washington Heights Fire Department.
Safety Tips
Propane Grills
Safety Tips
- Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces, such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.
- Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
- Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas, and foot traffic.
- Keep children and pets away from the grill area: declare a three-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
- Put out several long-handled grilling tools to give the chef plenty of clearance from heat and flames when flipping burgers.
- Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
- Purchase the proper starter fluid and store the can out of reach of children, and away from heat sources.
- Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited, and never use any flammable or combustible liquid other than charcoal starter fluid to get the fire going.
Propane Grills
- Check the gas cylinder hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles. If you determine your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
- If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not attempt to move the grill.
- Use only equipment with the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturers' instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it.
Annual Hose Service Testing at Moon-Lit Lake - 4/20/15
Members spent the day at Moon-Lit lake along with Waterways Fire Hose Testing testing all of the hose on the department's apparatus. The day started off early, as the first two engine's hose loads were dumped and tested, all without issue. The company and Heights firefighters worked for the rest of the day unloading and repacking all of the hose on the apparatus to put them back into service. Thanks to all who helped!
Members Train on New Foam Engine at High School - 4/14/15
Members spent the evening testing out the new foam engine recently delivered from Pierce Manufacturing. The new Pierce pumper is equipped with a roof mounted turret capable of flowing foam. Foam 1-12 along with Tanker 1-12 and Engine 1-12 took a ride to the High School where newer drivers got some experience pumping, supplying, and drop tank operations. Thanks to Captain Potter for the photos!
FF's Honor America's Longest Serving Volunteer - 4/12/15
Washington Heights firefighters along with other firefighters across the East Coast honored the loss of Fire Police Captain John Doster, Sr. Past chief of Bristol Township Fire Company. Doster passed away on April 2nd, 2015, at the age of 96, with 80 years of service to the Fire Company. Rest easy brother, and thank you for your service.
Photo courtesy of Levittownnow.com
Photo courtesy of Levittownnow.com
Apparatus Committee Formed to Spec. Out Foam Rig - 4/8/15
Chief Morris announced to the membership last monthly meeting that funding has been approved to purchase another Tower Ladder in addition to the Foam Pumper already in production. Since the previous foam pumper was sold two years ago, and the department is currently without a rig that can deliver large amounts of foam, it was ordered first. A committee was been formed and has been meeting for the last few months designing the new rig. The contract was awarded last month to Pierce Manufacturing in Appleton, Wisconsin. The committee explored many options such as refurbishing a used piece of apparatus and retrofitting a current rig. The decision was made to purchase a new rig since it would not tie up a front line pumper and there would not be any concerns of finding parts and extra upkeep with an older rig. The new pumper is expected to be delivered within the next few weeks and the new Tower Ladder is currently on the drawing board.
Happy ST. Patrick's Day From the WHVFC! - 3/17/15
Monday's Mutual Aid Fires Dubbed "Hell Night" - 3/5/15
Monday night (3/2/15), Washington Heights firefighters responded to the City of White Ridge, as they were handling numerous working fires. Official reports from White Ridge officials state convicts escaped Brick Penitentiary, leading area authorities on a chase and into gun fights. The cons started fires "ranging from grass fires to warehouse infernos" as city officials put it. Due to the high call volume and multiple agencies involved, March 2nd has been labeled as "Hell Night" by first responders.
Heights FF's Help Out With Fire Safety in Town - 2/28/15
The Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Department is trained and equipped to respond to all sorts of fire and rescue calls, but now they are part of a new attempt to prevent fires from claiming lives. Starting Wednesday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., the fire department will provide up to two smoke detectors per household to anyone who needs them. They are able to provide the detectors because of a donation of 100 from Home Depot.
Safety Captain Timothy Edwards will be heading the mission. This program is even more important to firefighters as statistics about children’s deaths in fires rise. Edwards said according to statistics, 15 children died as a result of a fire in Ohio, and this year has already seen 11 casualties.
“(Statistics state that) 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes...with no working smoke detectors,” Edwards said. Not only will the department be providing the smoke detectors, but it is also offering to install the detectors for city residents. “If you live in the city, we will come out and install it for you,” Captain Edwards said. “But these detectors aren’t just for city residents, they are for whoever needs them.” If anyone outside the city limits needs help installing their smoke detectors, Edwards suggested they call their local fire department.
Edwards, and other fire safety enthusiasts say residents should use the upcoming Daylight Savings Time as a reminder to change their smoke detector batteries along with their clocks. The Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Company is always looking for more ways to raise awareness and increase fire safety in the community. Edwards is hoping to find a business willing to donate carbon monoxide detectors, so the department can help residents install even more safety measures. Residents can pick up detectors at the Washington Heights Fire Company 1, located at 94 Maplewood Court. Smoke detectors will be given while supplies last.
Safety Captain Timothy Edwards will be heading the mission. This program is even more important to firefighters as statistics about children’s deaths in fires rise. Edwards said according to statistics, 15 children died as a result of a fire in Ohio, and this year has already seen 11 casualties.
“(Statistics state that) 60 percent of house fire deaths occur in homes...with no working smoke detectors,” Edwards said. Not only will the department be providing the smoke detectors, but it is also offering to install the detectors for city residents. “If you live in the city, we will come out and install it for you,” Captain Edwards said. “But these detectors aren’t just for city residents, they are for whoever needs them.” If anyone outside the city limits needs help installing their smoke detectors, Edwards suggested they call their local fire department.
Edwards, and other fire safety enthusiasts say residents should use the upcoming Daylight Savings Time as a reminder to change their smoke detector batteries along with their clocks. The Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Company is always looking for more ways to raise awareness and increase fire safety in the community. Edwards is hoping to find a business willing to donate carbon monoxide detectors, so the department can help residents install even more safety measures. Residents can pick up detectors at the Washington Heights Fire Company 1, located at 94 Maplewood Court. Smoke detectors will be given while supplies last.
Disaster Preparedness Training Held at Co.1 - 2/24/15
This evening, the Disaster Preparedness training event was held at the Company 1 fire station. Chief Morris opened the class up to mutual aid companies, so that everyone could have the opportunity to learn and prepare for serious emergencies and disasters. The topics covered in the class included: Pre-Incident planning, response modules, crew tasks, triage, recovery, public assistance, and post-incident review. We would like to thank our friends for joining us for this learning experience!
Thanks to:
Studdsville Rescue 5 and Squad 15
Belts Brick Engine 123
Jackson Rescue 5503
Codyville Fire/EMS
Thanks to:
Studdsville Rescue 5 and Squad 15
Belts Brick Engine 123
Jackson Rescue 5503
Codyville Fire/EMS
Firefighters Train With New Tower Ladder 4-12 - 2/16/15
This morning, firefighters took the new Tower Ladder out for driver training. Firefighters took the rig out back of Station 112 to fly the aerial and to practice positioning the rig. After this morning, we now have 7 new qualified drivers for the rig! Tower Ladder 412 has been at Station 112 all this week for members to train on, and to take some of the runs so Tower Ladder 112 can catch a break from the constant abuse.
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"Disaster Preparedness" Training at the Heights - 2/15/15
The Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Company will be hosting a disaster preparedness class on February 22nd, 2015, being put on by the American Red Cross. This training session will cover how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural and man-made disasters. The training begins at 0900 and is open to any departments who wish to attend, their is no cost for this class, as it being funded by the American Red Cross.
Firefighters begin EMR class at WHEMS - 2/12/15
Tonight Washington Heights Volunteer Fire Company member's had their first night of Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) class, held in the Washington Heights EMS building. This class will allow members who are not already medically trained to help out on rescue calls, motor vehicle accidents, and allow them to first respond on medical calls and assist the ambulance. This class covers more than basic first aid, covering topics such as childbirth, trauma, and medicals such as difficulty breathing and chest pains. The class should run until about May when their state exam is. Wish our medically-trained members to be luck!
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If we can't find you, how can we help you? - 2/8/15
With all of the snow we have gotten lately, the snow banks that build up have covered mailboxes and their numbers, making it difficult for emergency responders to find your exact address. Help us, jelp you! This can be done by digging out around your mailbox making it visible from the street or by getting a reflective number installed higher than the mailbox. The WHVFC thanks you for your cooperation during these snowy times!
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And the Snow Continues! - 2/7/15
A long duration snowstorm is expected through Monday night bringing total snow accumulations of 12 to 16 inches with wind gusts of up to 25 miles an hour. The snow will start tonight and continue into Monday night without much break. Visibility will be within a quarter mile, and high snow banks could also impact vision while driving. Keep an eye on roofs with the added snow weight, and watch out for slippery roadways.
Yet Another Storm Watch for Heights' First Due - 1/31/15
A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late Sunday night through Monday evening, this storm could bring heavy snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches with winds up 20MPH and gusts up to 35MPH. The snow is expected to start early Monday morning and continue through the day, ending by Monday night. Temperatures are expected to range from 5 below zero to 8 above zero. Snow covered roads and winds could lead low visibility and hazardous travel, use caution. Thank you to Channel 9 News for the photo.
Washington Heights FF's Storm Stand-by - 1/27/15
Firefights manned fire stations across the city this evening and will continue to stand by until Tuesday night to handle emergency and storm related calls. Crews are standing by to ensure a faster response to calls for service and so volunteers do not need to respond from their homes to their respective stations. Apparatus have had tires chains placed on their rigs, as well as putting spare apparatus into front line service for second or third calls. We will continue to monitor weather conditions and keep you up to date with the happenings of this winter storm and events in our community.
Winter Storm Watch for Washington Heights - 1/25/15
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for our area, in effect from Monday afternoon until Tuesday night, and may linger into Wednesday. It is expected to be in Southern New Hampshire on Monday, and in the mountains of Central Maine by Tuesday. Snowfalls are expected to be a heavy 10 to 14 inches, with winds from 10 to 20 MPH, with gusts of 30 MPH. Use extreme caution if you have to travel, as there will be low visibility. Thank you to Accuweather.com for the photo.
Downtown's Monthly Apparatus Maintenance Night - 1/24/15
Company One held its monthly maintenance night as the drill tonight. The apparatus were washed, waxed, and had their equipment checks done to ensure readiness for the next run. Tonight was a sight to see, as all three Mack CF apparatus were at Company One. Members joked, renaming the fire station "Mack Attack. Engine 9-12 is being housed at Company One until station nine is opened, and members have assumed responsibility of caring for the engine.
Engine 9's New Rig Has an Old Feel - 1/22/15
Engine 9-12 received its rig back from Fallout Fire Equipment and has many, many upgrades from emergency lighting to a fully enclosed cab. Other modifications to the pump and body layout were done to make the rig NFPA compliant. Engine 9 does not have an assignment, but will in the coming weeks. Thanks for a great job done by Fallout Fire Equipment as usual!
'The Heights' #waybackwednesday of Engine 1-12 - 1/21/15
Here is a before an after shot of Engine 1-12 before and after it went through complete refurbishment done by Fallout Fire Equipment. Modifications were done to the body and compartment layout, emergency and scene lighting, radios, bumper, cosmetic work, pump, and cab layout. We would like to thank Fallout Fire Equipment for a job well done as always and we look forward to Engine 1-12's continued service to our department!
Washington Heights Welcomes New Members! - 1/20/15
The WHVFC welcomes four new probationary members to its ranks tonight just before our EMS training started tonight. Company Three received two, Company One received one, and Company Four received the last one. These members will have to attend classes to earn a certification to become full members of the fire department. We would like to welcome them to brotherhood and family we here at Washington Heights have and applaud them for stepping up to become one of Washington Heights' bravest. Good luck guys, and welcome!
- Matthew K. Trehan (Company 3) - Donald P. Wineski (Company 3) - Stephen W. Marks (Company 1) - Samuel T. Smith (Company 4) |
WHVFC Visits the New Engine 9, Former Engine 2R - 1/19/15
With the impending consolidation of emergency services and as county based fire, rescue, and EMS services start to form, fire department officials are beginning to plan and purchase apparatus to support this new system. Included in these plans are new apparatus, refurbishment of spare and former apparatus, and re-designations of apparatus. Engine 2R began its service life as Engine 2, and is now being pressed back into front line service as Engine 9, operating out of Station 9. Members on the committee went to Fallout Fire Equipment today to do a final inspection of the rig, and snapped a photo of this group of rigs below, all formaly serving the Town of Union, in Fallout's graveyard, awaiting disposal. We will post the final build shots of Engine 9 when all graphics and striping have been applied!
Our Most Sincere Apologies... - 1/18/15
Dear Patrons and Citizens:
As we start off our new year with great pride and we strive to make 2015 an amazing year for our membership and community, we would like to take a moment to apologize for not posting anything new and keeping you updated with the happenings of the fire company within the last couple of weeks. We have been very busy with committee meetings for new apparatus, training, fundraising to support our functions and stations, and station maintenance, training, and of course, emergency calls! In other news, officer elections and appointments have taken place and are posted in the "Command Staff" section, or can be viewed by clicking the button below. We would like to thank you all for your continued support with our operation and look forward to continue serving you the best we can! Best Regards: John Morris - Chief |
Winter Storm Warning for Heights Area - 1/3/15
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning into Sunday morning at 10:00AM. Reports indicate a possibility of 4 to 8 inches and a quarter inch of ice, and 15-20 MPH winds depending on your area, after a low pressure system moves over the great lakes region. Take precautions and use operate your vehicles with extreme due regard. Make sure you have adequate heating fuel and/or dry seasoned wood, as well not overexerting yourself while shoveling.
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