Past Stories and Pictures

Final Inspection of City's 3 New Trucks

October 30, 2006 - I know the updates have been few and far between, once again I will try to do better. Have been real busy at work. We went to Pierce Manufacturing last week for the final inspection of two towers and the new tiller.  Thanks go to Anthony Sammartano, Mark Smyth, Paul Capo, Brian Schonborn and Darrin Maser for assisting in the design and final evaluation of these very functional and outstanding pieces of apparatus that will be serving the citizens of Clearwater very soon.

Pictures from the last month

Pics from Bethany Place Fire

Burn Patient on the East Side

September 15, 2006 - Rescue 48 was dispatched to one of our trailer parks for an injured person. Upon arrival they discovered a female patient that was accidentally burn over 30% of her body. LR49 arrived and upgraded the call to a BayFlite. Units from 48 performed excellent patient care and established the landing zone.

Church fire in Countryside

September 13, 2006 - Right at shift change an assignment was sounded for 2680 Landmark Drive for smoke reported coming from the ceiling. Engine 50 arrived to find light smoke showing, as they entered the structure the conditions started looking a little worse. They found fire in the ceiling while Pumper 53 advanced their attack line to the structure. The fire was quickly contained and crews did extensive overhaul to ensure that there was no extension. There were numerous trusses burned in the incident. CL-600 (Riley) was the Incident Commander.

B-Shift on another Structure Fire

September 10, 2006 - South of Station 45 continues to be the hot spot, as personnel were dispatched for a house fire in the 800 blk. of Ewing Ave. Engine 45 (Quinn) arrived to find a 2.5 story dwelling with fire showing. Companies once again did an excellent job controlling the fire and preventing further extension. Assistant Chief Pettingill was the Incident Commander.

CFR assists City Aquarium

Over the past couple of weeks the members of the CFR have been graciously assisting the City Aquarium with an ailing dolphin. This project requires personnel to hold the dolphin while drops are put in the eyes. The rumor of cutting out the dolphin experience from their next vacations is greatly exaggerated.

Auto into a Structure

September 7, 2006 - Fire Alarm dispatched units to the 1800 blk. of Drew Street for a reported car into a structure. There was no entrapment but some damage to the structure. The City TRT members responded along with Chief Watts and shored up the building.

Bus Fire

Units from Station 45 were dispatched for a PSTA bus on fire. No not at the famous location next to 45 where Rescue 45 normally goes 2 or 3 times a day, but out on a route. The fire was quickly controlled by the units on the scene.

Another Day in the City

August 10, 2006 - Just prior to lunch a medical local was dispatched in the 1100 blk. of M.L.K. for an injured person. Pre-arrival then notified units of a worker that had been burned with hot tar. Rescue 45 arrived to find a 50 YOM that had hot tar splashed on him, the tar was covering most of his left side. The patient was quickly placed in a SunStar unit and ALS intervention was started. The call was upgraded to a trauma alert and a BatFlite upgrade. He was transported to the local burn center with burns over 25% of his body.

At around 4:30 pm Engine 49 was dispatched to US Hwy19 N. and Drew Street for a pick up truck on fire. Upon arrival they found an electrical contractors truck with fire in the bed of the vehicle. The fire was quickly brought under control.

Promotions

August 9, 2006 - The CFR announced today the following promotions: Greg Newland was promoted to Fire Lieutenant and assigned to Relief A-Shift. Pete Georgantas promoted to Driver Operator and assigned to Station 51-A, Kevin (I am going to the Varsity Truck) O'Connor promoted to Driver Operator and assigned to 45-C and Mark Herny was promoted to Driver Operator and assigned to 45-B. Congratulations on your next step in the Fire & Rescue.

Councilmember Bill Jonson Rides with the Fire & Rescue

August 6, 2006 - Councilmember Bill Jonson took time out of his weekend to spend a couple hours with the Fire & Rescue. Arriving at 8AM at Station 49 he was quickly outfitted with gear and made ready to ride Squad 49. After breakfast the members took him to the Training grounds for some hands on training. He was assisted with performing an extrication and then extinguishing an auto fire. After sweating it out for a couple hours he went back to Station 49 to cool down and then spend some time riding Rescue 48. The Clearwater Fire & Rescue would like to thank Mr. Jonson for taking time out of his weekend to find out what the Fire & Rescue does everyday for the citizens of Clearwater.

Small Fire one block away from 622 Belleview BL.

August 5, 2006 - Shortly before midnight an assignment was dispatched to 1462 Hamlet Ave for a reported apartment fire. Engine 45 arrived with smoke showing from a middle unit of a one story apartment building. Engine 45 extended an attack line and attacked the fire in the bedroom of the apartment while the Truck conducted the search. There were no civilian of firefighter injuries and the working fire companies were quickly put back in service. Assistant Chief Howell was the Incident Commander.

House Fire with Firefighter Injuries

July 25, 2006 - Just an hour into the new day Engine 45 was dispatched on a local for smoke in the area of Belleview Boulevard and Hamlet Ave. Just after clearing quarters Fire Dispatch upgraded the call to a full structure fire assignment. Engine 45 arrived at 622 Belleview Boulevard with a 2.5 story dwelling with fire showing from the baker side with smoke issuing  from all windows. Engine 45 started a attack on the fire originally thought to be an outside fire and then moved to the first floor. Assistant Chief 45 (Pettingill) arrived and assumed Command while Truck 45 commenced with the search. Engine 45 under the command of Lt. Quinn knocked down the fire on the first floor and was then advised of fire extending into the second floor. They moved the line upstairs and was knocking down the fire up there when with no warning the floor underneath them failed. One firefighter went thru the floor to the first floor and was greeted by Engine 43 who assisted him outside. The fire was knocked down and extensive overhaul was required. There were two other firefighter injuries that did not require transportation. The injured member from Engine 45 sustained burns to his head and a fractured rib. He is recovering at home under the watchful eye of all members of the department.

Ist Alarm - E-45, E-47, E-43, T-45, S-49, R-45 and Assistant Chief 45

Working Fire - E-41, T-48, LR-49 and Sunstar

Tragic Auto Accident at Belcher and Gulf to Bay

July 13, 2006 - Units from Station 49 were dispatched to Gulf to Bay and Belcher for a reported auto accident. Pre-arrival information updated units that there was a car in the water and people were trapped. Extra units were added to the call along with District 48 and LR49. Upon arrival companies found a car submerged in a retention pond. Members quickly went into action jumping in the pond to assist a citizen who was attempting a rescue. Personnel from the Fire & Rescue quickly located the car and dove some 10 feet under water and were able to retrieve both occupants. Members assisted getting both patients on shore and started advanced medical care. Both patients were transported to the closest hospital where they were unfortunately pronounced deceased. The third patient from the accident was transported BLS to a local hospital. The members of the Clearwater Fire & Rescue performed with the utmost professionalism and dedication in this extremely demanding rescue.

One Jumps from the Bayside Bridge

July 13, 2006 - Just as units were clearing Belcher and Gulf to Bay a water rescue assignment was dispatched to the Bayside Bridge for a reported jumper into the bay from the top of the bridge. CL500 and District 48 arrived to find a vehicle on the side of the road and a patient in the water. Marine 49 arrived quickly and scooped up the patient and transported him to the shore for evaluation. Another great job for Station 49.

Recruit School Graduation & Promotional Ceremony

April 28, 2006 - The conclusion of another 8 week recruit school ended with the successful completion six new employees joining the ranks. Recruit School #7 takes the street starting on Sunday. All six new recruits are paramedics and will be assigned to companies in the future. There were a number of Driver/Operator and Lieutenant promotions, along with the promotion of 8 Assistant Chiefs. It was a well attended program and went off without a hitch THANKS to Denise Balog and Virginia Costa.

Serious Accident on Belcher Road

April 28, 2006 - Just before midnight Engine and Rescue 49 were sent to Belcher Road and Harn Blvd. for a reported accident involving two cars. As more reports were received from Dispatch, Assistant Chief Magness added to the call and requested Squad 49 to respond. Engine 49 arrived to find a small pick-up truck head-on into a tree on fire with two patients lying on the ground. Crews immediately went to work to assist the critically injured patients and controlling the fire. A second rescue and BayFlite upgrade were requested by command. As of this writing both patients were in very critical condition. Assistant Chief Magness (DC48) was the Incident Commander.

Building Fire Downtown

April 28, 2006 - A little after 0330 hrs. on Friday morning Fire Dispatch sent units to 603 Turner Street for a reported garage fire. As Assistant Chief 45 (Pettingill) arrived it was discovered that an antique store was on fire that had extended to the garage at the neighboring address. As Engine and Truck 45 went to work they found fire extending into exposure D, a vacant structure on Indiana Street. Command called for the working fire units and quickly put all companies to work. An aggressive attack by the first arriving companies and some hard work by the truck companies, this fire was successfully contained. Alot of overhaul was needed to assure that all extension had been checked, there were no firefighter or civilian injuries. Assistant Chief Pettingill (DC45) was the Incident Commander. This was a great job by all companies assigned to the call.

First alarm - Engines 45,47,46 Truck 45, Squad 49, Rescue 45 and Assistant Chief 45

Working Fire Dispatch - Engine 51, Truck 48 and Assistant Chief 48

Double BayFlite from Auto Accident Downtown

April 25, 2006 - Just prior to lunch, units from 45 were dispatched to the Memorial Causeway on top of the bridge for a reported head-on collision. Assistant Chief 45 added to the call and as the units arrived they special called Truck 45 and Squad 49 to the incident due to heavy damage. Two patients were in serious condition and Command called for two BayFlite helicopters. The patients were quickly removed and ALS intervention was initiated. An interesting note to this call was that as one of the BayFlite helicopters took off, it sucked debris into the rotors and had to immediately return to the landing zone. It was cleared by the flight crew and they were able to continue with the air transport. Assistant Chief Pettingill (DC45) was the Incident Commander.

Accidental Fire with Burn Injury

April 22, 2006 - As Saturday was winding a house fire was dispatched in the southeast section of the city. Bringing Engines 47,42,49 Truck 48, Squad 49 and Assistant Chief 48. Upon arrival it was discovered that the house was not on fire but a small child had accidentally set her clothes on fire. She was transported to the hospital along with an adult that extinguished the flames. The fire is under investigation by the Fire Marshal. Assistant Chief Jones (DC48) was the Incident Commander.

Early Morning Entrapment

April 22, 2006 - Just at shift change the east side units were once again back on the street. This time to McMullen Booth and Drew St. for a reported accident with one reported trapped. The extrication and air transport upgrades were called for as units arrived to find a single car accident into a tree in the median strip. Company 49 went to work tending to the patient and starting extrication. The extrication was completed with a roof removal and the patient was transported to the landing zone. Assistant Chief Jones was the Incident Commander.

Fatal Accident on Courtney Campbell

April 21, 2006 - A busy night on the east side of town had companies on the road most of the evening. Fire Dispatch sent units to the Courtney Campbell at the hump for a reported accident with entrapment. As Squad 49 marked responding the reports were coming in of the accident being a possible fatal. Engine 52, Truck 48, Truck 53 and District 48 were added to the call. Squad 49 arrived with a T bone accident with heavy damage. The patient in the car was deemed a fatality by EMS personnel, and the driver of the van had minor injuries. Tampa Police handled the investigation.

House Fire at 1003 N. Pennsylvania Avenue

April 20, 2006 - Just after lunch companies were dispatched to 1003 N. Pennsylvania Ave. for a reported bedroom fire. Engine 45 being already on the street was the first to arrive with a single story single family dwelling with fire showing from david and charlie side. Under direction from Lt. Quinn a courtyard lay was stretched to the front of the house. As they entered the house, Truck 45 commenced with the search with negative results. A quick knockdown was accomplished and the working fire file was quickly put back in service. There were two minor civilian injuries and no firefighter injuries. Division Chief Riley (CL600) was the Incident Commander. The fire is currently under investigation.

Second Fire in Twelve Hours

April 15, 2006 - All the companies from the earlier house were alerted to 1555 Ottawa Road at 0212 hours for a reported house fire. Engine 47 and Clearwater 600 arrived to find a 1.5 story dwelling with fire showing from the rear. While companies stretched attack lines and established water supply the fire started to gain headway in the attic. Engine 47 and Engine 45 both stretched lines to the structure while Truck 45 performed ventilation and the primary search. An aggressive attack stopped the fire from extending any further and searches proved negative. The house was being remodeled and no one was home. There were no civilian or firefighter injuries and the fire is currently under investigation. Operations Chief (CL600) Riley was the Incident Commander.

Slow Week ends with House Fire

April 14, 2006 - A slow week for structure fires ended Friday afternoon with Engine 45 being dispatched to a reported auto fire at 1516 Myrtle Ave. in the south west section of the city. Before they could clear quarters Dispatch filled out the assignment for a structure fire after receiving numerous calls for an RV on fire with extension to a dwelling. As companies got on the street and looked south it was evident that they were going to work. Engine 45 arrived with Lt. Jensen as OIC to find a fully involved RV with extension into the dwelling and exposure problems. They immediately pulled a 2.5" line to the rear to start darkening down the fire and protecting the exposures. Engine 47 and Truck 45 entered on side alpha to try and cut off the fire and initiate the primary search. As companies established the water supply and the secondary water, the fire was gaining headway. Companies inside were experiencing Collyer's Mansion Conditions as the fire intensified. A withdraw from the structure was ordered by command and companies went to exterior attack to darken down the fire. The fire was darkened down and the RV was extinguished as companies started a long overhaul process. The cause of the fire is under investigation with no civilian or firefighter injuries. Operations Chief (CL600) Riley was the Incident Commander.

I was asked numerous times about a transmission of Collyer's Mansion Conditions in the house. The following is an explanation of that term.

Collyer's Mansion Conditions' is a term that is used or was used to describe a house or building that has a large amount of trash and clutter in it. Specifically talking about a person or persons that are pack rats and have a ton of stuff stored in a place making it difficult for a firefighter to gain entry or assist. This term was coined by the FDNY after a couple of brothers, last name of Collier, had a house just like this. They had set booby traps all over the house to "ward" off people trying to get them. One of the brothers got sick and the other brother went to go get help and fell victim to one of his booby traps. He died and the sick brother died eventually. They were discovered some time later and it took longer than that to remove the bodies because of the conditions of the house and the traps. Because of this incident the term "Colliers Mansion Conditions" was created.
Search delayed because of Collyer's Mansion Conditions is a common FDNY radio report.

The true spelling of Collier is "Collyer" and the mental illness is known as "Collyer Mansion Syndrome."

House Fire on Amble Lane

March 21, 2006 - Early in the morning companies were alerted to 1011 Amble Lane for an electrical box on fire on the back of the house. Engine 51 (Yawn) arrived to find fire showing from the rear of the house involving three rooms with one of those in the exposure of this duplex. The rest of the companies went to work stretching additional lines and conducting the primary search. A good interior attack held the fire from extending to the rest of the duplex, companies had to do alot of hooking to get to the fire in the attic. Seven civilians were displaced by this incident with Assistant Chief Keene as the Incident Commander. Engine 47, 51, 48 Truck 48, Squad 49, Rescue 48 were on the initial alarm. Engine and Truck 45 came on the working fire upgrade.

Building Demolition turns Dangerous

March 20, 2006 - Engine 44 was trying to get to the store for lunch and drove past 100 Coronado Drive, which is under demolition. They discovered the wall bulging out dangerously close to collapsing into the street. Engine 44 called for the Assistant Chief and Command was established with numerous calls being placed to the city government for assistance. After conferring with the building inspector and the Deputy Chief (Dube') additional streets were closed thus backing traffic up to the mainland, while the precarious structure was made safe.

Busy Saturday in the City

March 18, 2006 - With Spring Break in full swing the weekends have been hopping on both sides of the city. Saturday keep companies busy with numerous auto accidents, injured persons and misc. calls. Just after dark Company 49 was dispatched to the Courtney Campbell Causeway for a motorcycle accident with the cycle on fire. Engine 49 arrived to find a motorcycle on fire with the rider as a fatality after running into a car. Those units remained on the scene for over an hour. The calls kept coming in with a working code and more auto accidents. Engine 51 and Rescue 45 were dispatched to Betty Lane for an auto accident hit and run. 51 arrived to find a pedestrian that had been struck and pinned against a wall. Due to his severe injuries he was transported by BatFlite. The suspect driver was later apprehended in the neighborhood.

Extrication At Drew Street and US 19 North

March 15, 2006 - In the afternoon units from Clearwater Fire & Rescue were dispatched to an accident involving a SunStar ambulance that was responding to a call. Engine 49 arrived on the scene and established Command after SunStar units had called for an extrication upgrade and a second alarm. After assessing the situation the bulk of the units were placed in service. Companies had to extricate one patient and treat four others, with all going by ground. Units on the scene included Engine 49, 52 and 40. Truck 48, Squad 49 and CL600 (Riley) was the Incident Commander. Units cleared in 45 minutes.

Busy Weekend in City

March 10, 2006 - With Spring Break in full swing and great weather companies all over the city were busy running calls for service ranging from a parrot stuck in a tree to a second alarm apartment fire. Also over the weekend there was a concert at Coachman park where Fire & Rescue personnel treated close to 120 patients for heat exhaustion and minor injuries

Friday evening brought a Marine Response to the Japanese Garden Mobile Home Park for civilians reported in the water. Company 49 arrived to find two civilians in the bay on a disabled jet ski. After drifting for 4 hours they were finally heard by citizens and the FD was called. Marine 45 launched and retrieved these thankful jet skiers.

Early in the morning units were dispatched to 1553 Missouri Ave. for a reported apartment fire with people trapped. The assignment brought Engine 47,41 and 45 Truck 45, Squad 49 and Assistant Chief 45. Engine 47 arrived with fire showing from a middle unit apartment in a one story structure. They quickly put an attack line is service while Rescue 47 tended to two burn patients. The fire was knocked down quickly and searches commenced of the fire unit and the exposures. The searches were negative and the two burn patients were flown to Tampa General and Bayfront. A second alarm was called for and then quickly put in service after the quick knockdown was completed. Assistant Chief 45 (O'Neill) was the Incident Commander.

Wild Splash started at 2PM and the Fire & Rescue personnel were in full force for this event that was attended by close to 15,000 fans.

After Wild Splash a structure assignment was sent to 2100 Nursery Road for an apartment fire. Engine 47,42 and 48, Truck 48, Squad 49 and Assistant Chief 48 responded. Engine 42 marked on the scene with smoke showing from the first floor apartment in this two story structure. A kitchen fire was located and the rescue of two cats was accomplished by the Truck. Assistant Chief 48 (Keene) was the Incident Commander.

House Fire on Pennsylvania Avenue

February 17, 2006 - At 1424 hrs. a house fire was dispatched at 808 Pennsylvania Avenue. This brought Engines 51, 45 and 46, Truck 45, Squad 49, Rescue 45 and Assistant Chief 45. Engine 51 marked on the scene with fire showing from side charlie. Engine 51 advanced an attack line to the structure while Rescue and Truck 45 started the primary search. The fire started in an addition on the house and companies did a good job of containing the fire and preventing it from taking hold in the attic. A working fire was declared but the extra Engine and Truck stood fast as the first alarm make quick work of this fire. The searches were negative and there were no firefighter or civilian injuries. Assistant Chief 45 (Howell) was the Incident Commander.

Fatal House Fire in Clearwater

February 8, 2006 - A house assignment was dispatched to the 1100 blk. of Palm Bluff St. for a reported house fire. The first due engine, Engine 51 was in the area doing hydrant inspections when they arrived at this one story dwelling with light smoke showing. Engine 51 advanced an attack line to the structure while Engine and Rescue 45 laid the supply line and started the search. The fire was quickly controlled by 51, Co.45 located a victim in the structure and the civilian was brought to the front yard. The patient had expired and the cause of death is currently under investigation by the Clearwater Police Department. Assistant Chief of Suppression Howell was the Incident Commander.

Can I get that Chicken to go....

These are some pics from an accident at the Kentucky Fried Chicken on Gulf to Bay a couple weeks ago...

444th Employee Recognition Ceremonies

December 30, 2005 - The 4th Employee Recognition Ceremony was held at the the Ross Norton Complex. This ceremony honored many members of the organization for their outstanding service to the citizens of Clearwater. Along with the recognition ceremonies the 6th Clearwater Fire & Rescue Recruit class graduated, this class had 14 new personnel that will be added to our work force.

Apartment Fire on Island Estates

December 29, 2005 - As units were drilling with the marine unit and companies retrieving equipment a assignment was dispatched to 770 Island Way for an apartment fire. As units got on the bridge a good column of smoke could be seen coming from Island Way. The working fire file was activated along with a call for a second alarm. Engine 46 was the first to arrive, to find a room off on the first floor of a three story building. Truck 48 arrived as the first truck being on the west side to collect some equipment. Companies stretched lines, did a search and tended to a civilian that was overcome by smoke. Quick work was made of the fire and the second alarm was returned quickly. District Chief Yeager was the Incident Commander. The first alarm brought E-46, E-45, E-51 Trucks 48,45 Squad 49 and Rescues 46,45. The working fire file brought up E-44 from the marine drill.

Yet Another House Fire

December 28, 2005 - At 0530 hrs. companies were dispatched to 1283 Lotus Path for flames coming from the roof. Engine 47 and Engine 45 arrived at the same time to find a one story dwelling with heavy fire in the attic. Companies with an established water supply by Engine 45 attacked the fire in the garage and in the house while primary searches were conducted. All companies did an outstanding job controlling this stubborn fire. All searches proved negative with no firefighter or civilian injuries. District Chief March was the Incident Commander with Deputy Chief Dube' also on the scene. First Alarm E-47, E-45, E-41 Truck 45, Squad 49 and Rescue 47. The working fire file was Engine 46 and Truck 48.

Interesting Christmas Day

December 25, 2005 - Not long after 9AM on Christmas day things started to get interesting in the City. Rescue 49 was dispatched to the Hess station at Drew and Belcher for an O.B. Rescue 49 rode with Sunstar to the hospital and just as they were pulling up to the hospital they delivered a Christmas baby. The baby was delivered healthy and the crew should be congratulated when you see them. After a High Rise assignment was cleared on Island Way, a technical rescue assignment was dispatched to Gulf to Bay Blvd. and Belcher Road for a man stuck in a car wash. Rescue 49 arrived to find a man that had been taking a break in the car wash when an un-suspecting citizen wanted to get their car cleaned. the mans foot was caught under the machinery and the track that is moves back and forth on. Rescue, Engine and Squad 49 along with Truck 48 dismantled the car wash to remove the injured parties foot. He was transported by Sunstar with minor injuries. Assistant Chief Jones was the Incident Commander.

Another House Fire

December 24, 2005 - Units again from the southside of the city were responding to a house fire. This time in the 1500blk. of Ewing Ave. Engine 47 arrived to find smoke showing from an attic of a one story duplex. The fire was contained to the attic and was caused by an electrical short. Companies operated for about one hour on this incident. District Chief Yeager was the Incident Commander.

Clearwater Firefighters Assist Family

December 24, 2005 - After the house fire on Bugle Lane members of the department started to collect money and donations for the stricken family. Over $1500.00 dollars in cash from the firefighters along with many major chains making donations assisted the family through this difficult holiday season. A presentation was made to the family at the Target store in Clearwater Mall. Many thanks to all the firefighters that gave money and time to this effort. A special thank-you goes to the members of Station 49 that initiated this effort.

House Fire on Southside

December 23, 2005 - Units from the southside of Clearwater and Largo were dispatched to 1888 Bugle Lane in the early evening for a reported house fire. Engine 47 arrived to find a one story house with an attached garage with fire showing from the garage area and some of the attic. An interior attack was made in an attempt to sustain a search and extinguish the fire. An interruption in water supply caused a momentary retreat from the structure till it could be re-established. Units then proceeded to finish up the search and fire extinguishment. First Alarm E-47, E-42, E-49 Truck 48, Squad 49, Rescue 47 and District 48. The working fire assignment brought Engine 48 and Truck 45. District Chief Tellone was the Incident Commander.

City of Clearwater Orders New Ladder Trucks

The City of Clearwater entered into a contract with Pierce Manufacturing for the purchase of a Dash 105' Tiller Aerial for Station 45. With this order will also come the replacements for both Skyarms. These units will be replaced with two Pierce Dash 100' rear mounted Towers with no pumps of course. One of these truck will go to Station 48 and the other in reserve. The delivery date for these units is late 2006.

Clearwater Personnel Deployed for Wilma

October 24, 2005 - Due to Hurricane Wilma members of the department are being deployed to southern areas of the State. Assistant Chief Patterson is going to serve on an Incident Command Team, while two other members of SORT are being deployed to assist the City SWAT team on a mission. I have not received my security clearance for their destination. I will update their status as information is made available.

Clearwater Fire & Rescue Places Paramedic Engines in Service

October 22, 2005 - The Clearwater Fire & Rescue placed two more Paramedic Engine Companies in service. The two new companies are Engine 48 and Engine 49, these engines join the current two companies of Engine 51 and Engine 44. This now gives the City a total of 10 units that can provide advanced medical care to the citizens of Clearwater and the surrounding communities.

Auto fire on Ridgewood Drive

October 22, 2005 - Mid morning Engine 48 was dispatched to an auto fire on Ridgewood Drive. Engine 48 with Lt. Booker in charge to find an engine compartment off with the vehicle very close to the house. A fast attack contained the fire to the auto.

Assist with Medical Call

October 20, 2005 - Rescue 49 was dispatched for a medical emergency on Seville Blvd. They found a patient on the roof of an apartment building who was suffering from a medical condition. A special call was made for Truck 48 to remove the patient from the roof. Squad 49 added to the call, and members removed the patient in the basket of 48 Truck.

New EMS Chief Hired

October 15, 2005 - J.P. Medani has been hired to be the Assistant Chief of the EMS Bureau. He currently is working in Citrus County as a paramedic and retired with over 20 years of service from the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department. He served as one of the shift supervisors for the EMS branch for almost 10 years. He will officially start on October 31st.

House Fire on Bermuda Street

October 15, 2005 - Shortly after 1AM in the morning a structure assignment was dispatched to 1250 Bermuda Street for a reported house fire. Engine 51 under command of Lt. Williams arrived to find a single story structure with smoke showing. The working fire file was activated as units went to work attacking the fire. Engine 51 entered the front of the house and protected the interior of the house and the search crew as the fire was identified to be in the garage. After opening up the garage Engine 45 put a good knock on the fire. There were no civilian or firefighter injuries and District Chief March was the Incident Commander.  First Alarm - Engines 51,60,45 Truck 45 Squad 49 Rescue 45 and District 45  

                                                           End of an Era

October 14, 2005 - At 1600 hours Clearwater Fire & Rescue Operations Chief Randy Bacher officially retired from the department. He faithfully served the department for 20 years and worked his way up the ranks to the number 3 position. His friendship and wisdom will be greatly missed by all members of the department. Good Luck in your retirement Randy.........

Fatal Car Accident on Cleveland Street

September 27, 2005 - An auto accident at Cleveland Street and Keene Rd. resulted in a fatality with another patient in serious condition that was Bayflited. Multiple companies worked to extricate the patients and administer care to the patients. Acting District Chief Pettingill was the Incident Commander. Units on the scene included Engines 47, 51, 48 Truck 48, Squad 49 and Rescue Units from 47 and 45.

House Fire in Countryside

September 26, 2005 - Units from the City and Safety Harbor were dispatched to 2600 blk. of Burntfork Drive for a reported house fire. Engine 50 arrived to find a single story dwelling with an attached garage with fire showing. A working fire file was dispatched as companies went to work. Heavy fire engulfed the garage, Engine 50 worked from the inside of the house to protect the unburned structure. This stop was made by a great stand by the engine company and some aggressive hooking. There were no civilian or firefighter injuries. District Chief Peppe was the Incident Commander. Units on the first alarm Engines 50, 53, and 48 Truck 48 and Squad 49. Working Fire brought Engine 52.

Busy 12 Hours on the West End

September 5, 2005 - Units from 48 & 49 were busy handling numerous accidents on U.S. 19 on Sunday and Monday along with a BayFlite upgrade on a motorcycle accident on McMullen Booth Sunday evening.

Clearwater Fire/Rescue Medics take 1st Place Trophy

September 1, 2005 - The team of Lt. Brent Bronson and Fire medic Sean McKay have placed 1st in the ITEMS 5th Annual "Medic Up" competition in San Diego, California. This is an international competition involving federal, military, and SWAT medics participating in several events displaying their EMS skills in tactical environments. This is their second, first place finish in the past three years. They have truly shown the professionalism and caliber of Clearwater Fire & Rescue Medics and Clearwater Police SWAT. Please congratulate them when you get the chance.

Clearwater Fire to Assist in Relief Effort

August 30, 2005 - The Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department was asked to assist in the relief effort in the devastated south. The Department sent one Rescue and three personnel, they were apart of a Strike Team led by Chief Acetta from Safety Harbor. Their Strike Team as of today had 50 units from across Florida. I hope to have some updates in the future.

House Fire in 51's Area

August 30, 2005 - Units from the City were dispatched to 1229 Nicholson Street for smoke reported coming from a house. Engine 51 arrived to find a 1.5 story dwelling with smoke coming from the attic. Engine 47 laid in the water while Truck 45 started the search. The fire was quickly contained by two attack lines, while other units opened up and performed ventilation. District Chief March was the Incident Commander

A Thank-you to a C.F.D. Supporter

August 12, 2005 - A belated thank-you goes out to Harberson Swanston RV Dealers for their assistance to the Clearwater Fire & Rescue during the July 4th weekend. Chief Jones acquired a $275,000 dollar Motor Home for use as the Island Station during the anticipated busy holiday weekend. Just a quick background on this, One RV was delivered on Friday that was worth $250,000 but the air conditioner went bad unexpectedly. The owner then on Saturday morning delivered the final RV to the Island Station at 8 A.M. This vehicle served the citizens of Clearwater for the rest of the weekend at NO COST to the City.

Small Fire on Drew Street

August 11, 2005, Units from the East Side were dispatched to 2346 Drew Street for a reported trailer fire. Engine 49 arrived to find a single wide trailer with light smoke showing. Truck 48 arrived at the same time and initiated the primary search with negative results. A cushion and mattress were found on fire, the fire was quickly put under control by Incident Commander District 48 (Peppe). There was no on home at the time of the fire.

Lt. Steve Coward Awarded August Employee of the Month

On March 7, 2005, paramedics responded to a cardiac arrest call on a gentlemen on vacation from England.  Unfortunately, they were unable to resuscitate the patient.  Steve Coward drove the man's wife to the hospital to tend to the husband; invited her to stay at his home while arrangements were made; made phone calls to England to the woman's children; coordinated with the medical examiner, Moss Feaster Funeral Home, the British Consulate in New York City, and relatives in England; convinced British Airways to fly the woman home from Tampa rather than Orlando at no extra charge; arranged with Moss Feaster for transportation of the deceased back to England; contacted the rental company to retrieve the couple's rental car; and drove the woman to Tampa International and stayed with here until her flight departed.  All this was done in one day on his own time.  In the words of a coworker, "The selfless assistance he gave to the bereaved widow was more than many people would personally take upon themselves."

Control Burn on N. Osceola Ave.

August 5, 2005 - Thanks to the Triangle Development Company, the Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department held a live burn at 312 N. Osceola Ave. The duplex one story house was set up per NFPA 1403 standards and several rooms were set up for burns. Several companies from Downtown started the drill and West End companies joined in later.

Squad 49 is Nearing Completion

August 5, 2005 - As the 15th of August comes near the new squad is near completion. Our Pierce representative from Ten-8 sent some pics of the Squad at the factory.

Lightning Strike Victims Visit Lifesaving Crews

August 1, 2005 - Three of the five victims that were struck by lightning on Clearwater Beach by Pier 60 visited members from Engine 44, Engine 46 and Rescue 46 today. The victims were all from Tennessee and were related to the District Chief from Franklin where Chief Geer and Chief Jones are from. The crews related the stories of that day to them, as they had no idea what happened after the strike. The three patients expressed their gratitude to the members of the department for their caring and professionalism displayed that day.

Another Day Another Boat Fire

August 1, 2005 - Just before 6 AM units from the Beach and surrounding companies were dispatched to 300 Hamden Drive for a reported boat fire. Engine 46 arrived with light smoke from a sailboat docked very close to shore. The working fire file was activated as companies tried to find the seat of the fire. With the smoke getting worse and heat continuing to build Engine 46 unable to get a hit on the bulk of the fire switched to a piercing nozzle. This had a great effect on the fire and it darkened down within minutes. Units were held to assist in overhaul and were released within an hour. District Chief Yeager was the Incident Commander.

Vehicle Rollover Accident on US19

July 26, 2005 - Company 49 units were dispatched to US19 North at Belleair Road for a reported vehicle accident. As units were enroute Dispatch upgraded the assignment to an extrication upgrade bringing Truck 48 and Squad 49. Lt. Williams working OT established Command and called for a Bay-Flite helicopter. Personnel found an ejected victim and two other patients that had self extricated themselves, ALS care was rendered to the patients. One of them was flown while the two remaining went by ground.

Busy Day for Engine 44-A Shift

July 24, 2005 - Early in the morning units were dispatched to 1020 Gulf Blvd. for a reported house fire. This fire quickly escalated to a second alarm plus some specials for manpower. The bulk of the fire was in the attic of this rather large home on the beach. After an interior attack had to be halted due to heavy fire in the attic, a ladder pipe was used to knock the bulk of the fire down. Units were then allowed to re-enter the structure to finish up with the hot spots and commence overhaul. Companies had to deal with a good fire in the attic and limited access to the attic area. There also were a lot of hurricane shutters closed that had to be opened to gain access. Companies had to be constantly rotated due to the morning humidity.

Five Civilians Struck by Lightning at Pier 60

July 23, 2005 - A rather calm day in the City was disrupted when a brief storm produced a lethal lightning bolt in the vicinity of Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach. Clearwater Fire & Rescue Engine 44 was in the area and arrived to find 5 civilians that had been struck by lightning. The incident was immediately upgraded for more units to tend to all the patients. Companies worked valiantly and swiftly in rendering care to the injured. One of the victims was transported immediately by Engine 44 to the hospital via the engine. This incident will be updated as more information becomes available.

Boat fire on Clearwater Beach

July 21, 2005 - Units from the Westside of the City were alerted to 25 Causeway Blvd for a reported boat fire. Engine 46 arrived in the area with nothing showing, in a very crowded marina. Upon investigation a 40' yacht was located with moderate smoke in the cabin. As units investigated the balance of the assignment worked to stretch attack lines from the marina standpipe system. Conditions on the boat worsened as the fire was traveling in void spaces, after doing a risk assessment units were advised to go to defensive operations by command. Foam lines were placed in service off the standpipe system, with personnel hand carrying the foam to the boat. As the fire intensified an additional water supply was needed to keep up with demand. 500' of 5 inch line and 250' of 2.5" was hand laid by companies to the affected boat. There were no firefighter or civilian injuries and the fire is currently under investigation. District Chief 45 (Willi) was the Incident Commander.

New Squad 49

July 20, 2005 - Representatives from the Clearwater Fire Department visited Pierce Manufacturing to check on new Squad 49. The chassis was complete and they were just starting on the body. The C-shift and A-shift Lieutenants did a thorough job of checking out the unit and it is expected for final delivery around the second or third week of August.

Trailer Fire in Safety Harbor

July 14, 2005 - Units from Safety Harbor and Clearwater responded to a reported trailer fire on Phillippe Way. Companies arrived to find a trailer with smoke showing. A quick knockdown was done by Pumper 53, while the balance of the assignment completed duties as assigned by command. Engine 49, Engine 48, Truck 48 and Squad 49 assisted Safety Harbor on this incident.

Strip Shopping Center Fire

July 6, 2005 - City units were dispatched to the 1800 blk. of  Drew Street for smoke reported coming from the building. Engine 48 arrived to find light smoke coming from the store at 1898 Drew Street. They positioned on Side Charlie and forced the rear door while Truck 48 entered from the front. As the attack line was advanced from the rear, it was determined that the "Can" from the truck would suffice. The fire was quickly controlled and units were held removing smoke from the original store and the exposures. District Chief 48 (Peppe) was the Incident Commander.

Restaurant Fire at the Beach

July 5, 2005 - A structure fire assignment was dispatched to Island Way for a report of fire coming from the roof of a restaurant. Numerous calls were received at Dispatch, and the Working Fire file was added. Units arrived to find smoke coming from the kitchen chimney. Companies advanced lines to the roof and the interior, Truck 45 opened the roof area and the interior was checked with the thermal imager. After assuring the fire was contained units were slowly released. Clearwater 200 (Dube') was the Incident Commander, with Chief Geer and support staff also on scene. There were no firefighter or civilian injuries at this minor fire.