The accident involved a late model medium sized automobile which left the roadway and veered sideways into a tree. The impact at the B post on the driver's side caused penetration into the driver's space of about 30-36". There were three involved individuals with one self extricating and two entrapped. The hydraulic rescue tools were employed to free the two remaining but both succumbed to injuries. While 851 crew was setting up tools, 804 personnel advanced a charged 1 3/4" line with SCBA to provide protection. The rest of the 804 crew assisted extrication. ESS supplied hot coffee and fresh donuts which were welcome in the cold. Breakfast bars were available in the station when we returned.

Because of the extent of the investigation by law enforcement, FD personnel were on the scene until shortly before 0600 hours. Among the lessons learned were the need for aggressive traffic control. One civilian driver "blew through the scene" in the open lane and had the opportunity of some up close and personal, face to face time with OPD. The use of the "high visibility traffic vests" is being increased and more will be available on our apparatus this week.

After the units were back in quarters there was a short critique by the crews to review the call. All in all, it was an efficiently executed operation with the on-going commitment to training again being evident. It is an honor to work with all of you, Captain Dinosaur

"Fluff" Fire 9/4/08
Owego Fire and Rescue responded to an early morning fire in a mountainous fluff pile at Upstate Shredding. A fluff pile is the accumulated non recyclable material left over from vehicles and scrap after the metals are collected. The dispatch brought Engine 804, Tower 841, Ambulance 833 and Emergency Support Services along with about 15 OFD firefighters. Chiefs 871 and 873 were also on scene. Because the fire was located high on the pile it was easiest to attack from above via the aerial flow. We have been to a number of fluff pile fires in the last several years and often laid 800' to 1000' of large diameter hose as a water supply. The process is very labor intensive, especially when picking up. This fire was different in that instead of laying LDH we had two choices on scene. Candor Fire had been mutual aided for their reel truck holding 2000' of LDH and a 3000 gallon tanker. After discussion on the best way to achieve the needed water flow, it was decided the most efficient method for the situation facing us would be the tanker supply. Two loads (6000 gallons) was enough. We saved at least two hours of hose pick-up and repacking. It was a good lesson for an alternative approach for water supply and we learned to work still smarter, rather then harder. Capt. Dinosaur

MAJOR STRUCTURE FIRE 7/29/08
On Tuesday, 29 July just after Noon, Owego Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a possible fire at the old Monarch Chemical Storage facility. Currently it is occupied by Taylor Recycling. While the initial dispatch was broadcast and units were responding, this was upgraded to a structure fire, then multiple structures, then a HazMat risk, and finally a risk of explosions. The address was Glenmary Drive, West of Talcott Street and about 3 miles from Central Station. This is a non hydranted, rural area.

The weather was hot in the low 80's, with a gentle breeze and clear skies. The site involved was immediately parallel to and along the main line tracks of Conrail and consisted of approximately 7 Quonset hut structures. At least 6 of them were parallel to each other like fingers and interconnected by  large walkways capable of allowing fork lift trucks to shuttle bales of material. The 6 buildings were along a line that stretched about 200 yards.

These buildings were of ribbed, sheet metal exterior and supported inside by a frame of curved wooden arcs. This type of construction is typical of World War Two vintage and the buildings appear like a  half of a tin can cut end to end and gave the appearance of an arched tunnel when viewed from a doorway. We have reviewed this architecture during our weekly trainings and knew they were unstable when exposed to heat and collapse prone. No operations involved roof work and very little interior crew penetration was permitted due to the risks.

On arrival Owego was confronted with the first three buildings of the string heavily involved in intense heat, smoke and fire. The contents were unknown and on the tracks were a number of propane tank cars stored on the track siding. The cars, just a few feet from the structures, were directly impacted by extreme radiant energy and at least one was smoking on the exterior skin. This was a major concern; the railroad was contacted and they sent an engine to couple up to the string of cars and remove them to a safe location beyond the fire. They did this quite quickly.

Early on it became apparent water supply would be an issue and the mutual aid plan was implemented for tankers, engines, manpower, and large diameter hose on reel trucks.

The approach we used is fairly typical for our department in major fires and it was applied here quite successfully. First, a tanker shuttle was established with three target sites. About four tankers pushed water to an engine at the East end of the fire. Another four dumped into parallel portable tanks in the middle and a pumper drafted from them. Four more tankers pumped into parallel supply lines at the West end of the fire. Those lines went up a driveway to a pumper that in turn supplied an aerial tower at the back end of the last building. While the massive tanker shuttle was operating, a large diameter supply line was laid about 3000 feet, across fields to a remote pond. The reel truck spooled out the line (and mercifully rewound it after the fire) to the water source where a pumper drafted. Half way along the hose, a  second pumper was located to act as a relay engine to boost pressure and overcome friction loss in the line. We don't use these techniques with great frequency, but are skilled and experienced in the applications to put them into service without too much difficulty. However, all of the actions at a fire of this magnitude are very labor intensive.

Three of the buildings were saved. The first was a free standing hut style that was near buildings one and two. The second and third were the last two of the string of 6. About half way along the connected structures was a loading dock between buildings 4 and 5 with a roll up door opened fully. First a portable deluge gun was hand carried to the dock and put into operation knocking down flames racing up the wood framing which comprised the arc (and therefore was both wall and then roof support). The gun was positioned so that it could also be directed into the walk way. This slowed the travel of the fire long enough to get an effective attack in place to save the end structures.

At the height of the conflagration five aerials were in use (but not all simultaneously) along with approximately 20 departments and 150 firefighters from two counties-Tioga and Broome. The Tioga County Fire Coordinator responded along with the Tioga County HazMat unit. Broome County dispatched their Haz Mat Special Operations van. A Rapid Intervention Team was in place from Endicott. Owego Emergency Support Services along with the Salvation Army provided food. The OFD Emergency Squad operated two rehab stations and Fire Police shut down Glenmary Drive and allowed only tanker shuttle and emergency traffic. It is simply impossible at this time to list all the participating departments and units. Needless to say they all contributed to the successful outcome. As an example, neighboring squads assisted the OFD squad in the rehab activity.

There were no injuries and everyone went home! Most Owego units were back in service by 10PM.

 I know I write this often, but it is the main theme of why we operate professionally and effectively, and that is the way we continually train. Our core group of FF's and line officers make this an ongoing and continual activity. My thanks and appreciation for all you do. You are ordinary individuals who do extraordinary things. Wow!! Capt Dinosaur

CPR EMPIRE STATE GAMES 7/25/08
On Friday night about 7:30PM/ 1930hours a 72 year old male was competing in the Masters Division of the Empire State Games at the swimming venue in the Owego Free Academy pool. He suddenly was stricken and immediately the OFA lifeguards rescued him from the water and started life support actions. On scene for the games was Greater Valley Ambulance and they initiated CPR. Owego Fire and Rescue was dispatched at the same time for a CPR in progress. The initial tones were for the squad and immediately followed by fire tones to add manpower. OPD also responded. 832 responded and was on scene in a matter of minutes. The combined OFD squad and fire personnel numbered about 22 on hand. The scene inside the pool facility was quiet and calm, even with a large audience present for the competition.Paramedic level treatment was initiated and supportive interventions were undertaken. The patient was transported for hospital level care. In spite of all treatment he succumbed to his apparent heart attack.

What was important to note was the efficient and orderly flow of treatment and transport provided for the patient. The squad members did an extremely impressive and professional job with high levels of competence. The Fire, Law Enforcement, EMS (Greater Valley) and Lifeguards all integrated well.

The take away message, stated over and over-- Training is the basis for all successful calls. The people involved--and repeating a phrase--  all presented an extremely professional and competent, well coordinated effort. We also gave individuals from outside our area a favorable impression of Owego and it's emergency services. Although we all prayed for a different outcome, we did our best. It is a privilege to serve with you all, Capt Dinosaur

BLOCK FIRE 5/30/08 
On May 30 at 0100 hours Owego Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a structure fire at the corner of Liberty and Temple Streets. The weather was mild with temperature about 55 degrees, light wind and no precipitation. The first reports were of a structure fire but that was immediately upgraded to multiple structures. The fire scene was on both streets in an "L" configuration with two houses on each street totally involved. Behind the houses, two garages were also totally involved. Therefore the initial scene involved 6 structures all simultaneously burning. Mutual aid was immediately put into effect and included a second aerial ladder. Hydrant supply was adequate for all operations, but LDH 4" hose was utilized from another water main loop several blocks away. Owego engines 801, 803,and 804 along with Tower 841, Heavy Rescue 851, Squads 831, 832 and 833, ALS Car 852, Fire Police 853 and approximately 55 firefighters responded immediately with the first engine on the scene in just minutes. Campville, Southside, Newark Valley, Candor, Apalachin, Tioga Center, Vestal (Broome County), West Corners (Broome County), Nichols and Weltonville responded in a cascade of alarms. At the height of the fire well over 100 firefighters and EMS personnel were active on the fire ground.

As the first units arrived, residents across the street from the call were in the street and required aggressive crowd control from Owego PD, Tioga County Sheriff, and the New York State Police. Several fights ensued between the tennants but no fire fighters were involved. However firefighters initially were taunted by the crowd.

The house construction was primarily  2 1/2 story wood frame and some were balloon design. The first reaction was awe in that 6 buildings closely space were all involved in heavy fire load. Aggressive exterior attacks were initiated on both streets and two aerial ladder streams plus an engine mounted deluge gun were aggressively employed, along with numerous  2 1/2" and 1 3/4" hand lines. After several hours it became evident we would be able to stop the conflagration to the buildings of origin and actually prevent much more spread into the four houses. However the two garages and contents were totally destroyed. A fifth house was threatened early on and started to burn due to the radiant heat, but firefighters in that sector reacted and eliminated the problem. That house suffered only exterior damage to one side.

New York State Electric and Gas was notified early on and since the power supply was from poles across the street from the buildings there was a constant threat of the live lines dropping into the street and onto one engine. Traffic cones and scene tape were used in an attempt to limit electrocution risk of firefighters working in the immediate area. The lines did not fall and NYSEG did cut power about an hour into the event.

Fire Police not only prevented unwanted traffic from entering the area but kept onlookers from interfering. They also aided in getting mutual aid companies guided into the sectors appropriately.

Emergency Support Services immediately provided water and Gatorade followed up by iced towels in rehab. They then distributed sandwiches and fresh fruit inside the fire grounds. The next morning they provided breakfast and then a noon lunch.

The Tioga County Fire Coordinator was present from early on after the initial call and his resources were very helpful. As part of his contingent, the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team responded and worked in conjunction with the Owego Chief Officer.

The American Red Cross set up a support site a block away to assist the displaced residents. All told there were 20 individuals who lost their residences.

Owego's last engine went back in service at 1300 hours or about 12 hours after the initial alarm.

Below is a summary from Paul Cole, OFD Squad Captain  who provided more details.

This call was a "worst possible scenario"
In summary it was a spectacular series of saves that required the combined forces of a multitude of departments and agencies. Many times we have discussed the importance of training and interaction (ICS) between local departments. May 30 th was an impressive effort of cooperation between the departments and agencies. EVERYONE WAS ON THEIR "A" game.

Thanks and GREAT WORK! Captain Dinosaur

* 831-832-831-852 all responded, 832/852 used for rehab
* Everyone basically compliant with rehab
* When reported with possible entrapment, re-tone request for 3rd ambulance
and Apalachin EMS to the scene. Apalachin came armed with backup ems rehab
supplies.
* OPD/Tioga Sherriff/ State Police utilized for crowd control for the
initial attack of the fire (really cranky residents) and then throughout
active fire fighting for crowd containment.
* Main rehab sector was assisted by Apalachin EMS (central/temple),
performed 75+ rehabs.
* Due to the large size of the incident, a second rehab sector was set up on
Liberty/Main Street by Tioga Center EMS. Unknown number of rehabs performed.
Tioga Center offered their assistance and was gladly accepted due to the
size of the incident.
* Bystander Injuries: 1 gal with twisted knee from fall, assisted to POV.. 1
elderly lady with hyper ventilation, no transport.. 1 resident for a
dressing check because of recent surgery, and might have had problems during
hurried evacuation from her residence.
* Fire Fighter Injuries: 1 Minor Burn, 2 with finger laceration, 1 asthma
related, 2 with extended rehab due to not feeling well, No transports.
* Red-Cross set up a temp shelter at the mello-dear hall for displaced
residents.
* No residents from inside any of the homes on fire received any injuries,
to my knowledge.
* Close proximity to the fire station made it easier for ESS, EMS, FD to
perform duties (run back and forth to station for more supplies) and use
bathroom facilities during extended fire scene time.
 

MVA - MUTUAL AID TO SOUTHSIDE 5/14/08
     Owego Fire and Rescue was called on mutual aid to Southside for an MVA which occurred on Wednesday 14 May at about 1700 hours. The weather was in the 50sF, slightly overcast and the road surface was dry. Southside was first on scene and found a car on it's side in a deep roadside ditch. The driver was in the car and injured. Owego Heavy Rescue 851 was dispatched along with Squad 832 to assist with the extrication. Stabilization was inserted and then to free the patient with minimum movement Southside's chief requested that  A,B, and C roof pillars on the passenger (exposed) side of the vehicle, be severed. Then the roof was pressed down which allowed sufficient space for a KED to be applied, followed by a backboard. The patient was successfully removed and transported to the hospital. It was reported on WEBO the injuries were not serious. The cooperation between departments was excellent, and reflects the efforts of departments to constantly train and maintain proficiency. Capt Dinosaur

Motorcycle-Car MVA 5/1/08
     On Thursday, 1 May, 2008 at about 1300 hours a motorcyclist struck a car near the driveway to the Open Door Mission. The front of the cycle and the driver side near the B-post of the car comprised the initial impact location. The weather was slightly overcast with temperatures in the low 50s F and the road surface dry. The initial call was toned out as a car-motorcycle accident and then upgraded to a rescue call for air bags. At first the bike driver was partially under the car but was freed from that position prior to Heavy Rescue 851s arrival. The Owego Fire Department Emergency Squad was faced with two individuals requiring immediate attention. The cyclist was immobilized and back boarded, and then transported to the hospital. The car driver who was complaining of pain was also immobilized via KED and then backboard. He too was transported to the hospital. Initial reports on the cyclist are pending, but serious injury may have occurred. There were approximately 20 members of OFD participating on this call. Assistance was provided by Owego Police Department and as always the cooperation among units and teams was excellent. The requirement for constant and upgraded training is evident with the increased complexity of the FD responses. It is a compliment to all members on their dedication to  their ongoing in-service as well as NYS Fire and EMS course work. Capt Dinosaur
 

Structure Fire 2/28/08
     Owego Fire and Rescue responded to a barn fire last night at 2020 hours. There was a mild breeze, clear skies and 0 degrees F. The call was about 4 miles from the fire station and required passage up a 3/4 mile  up-hill, single lane, dead end road. Responding were Engine 804, Engine 801, Engine 803, Tower Ladder 841, Squad 831, Fire Police, And Emergency Support Services. Mutual aid was immediately put into effect and Newark Valley, Weltonville, and Candor all arrived with large volume tankers (2400 gallons +/-each).  Approximately 30 firefighters were on scene. The Town Highway Department responded with a much needed sand truck to provide for safe footing as well as improved roadway access. Initial investigation supported spontaneous combustion in hay as the probable cause. Working in our favor was a very early notification to the alarm center. The building was relatively undamaged and almost all the animals were safe. It was declared under control within one hour. Realize how serious this call could have been with the problems of a very narrow road, a water shuttle supply method, and the extreme cold. It could be estimated the wind chill at site was about - 10 degrees F. A good job was done and saved a family's barn and livestock.

Structure Fire 2/24/08  
On Sunday morning at about 0930 hours Owego Fire and Rescue was alerted to a possible structure fire on West avenue. The weather was freezing temperatures, no wind, and sunny. Engine 801 was first on the scene, followed by Tower Ladder 841, and Engine 804. Also responding were Squad 831, Fire Police, and Emergency Support Services. Assisting on mutual aid were Campville and Tioga Center. Responding along with the emergency services was the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team and Owego Police. There were approximately 60 firefighters on the scene. First arriving units found heavy fire in the rear quarter of the house on the first floor of the two story, wood frame, partial balloon construction, one family home. There was a utility room immediately behind the kitchen containing a gas fired water heater. The fire appeared to have started in this area and very rapidly spread to the back porch and kitchen. The fire attack initially consisted of two prongs. One group attempted to suppress the flames at the rear while an entry team went in through the front door and worked back into the kitchen area. The front entry team met very heavy smoke conditions and fire overhead along the ceiling. While working the interior and unknown to them, the fire had raced up the rear stairs and ignited the entire second floor. Fire Command then evacuated the building and changed strategy to attack from the second floor and roof using the Tower and ground ladders. The house was extremely old and had significant structural modifications over the years which made suppression more difficult.

The rear stairway was the significant path for the large volume of heat and smoke to take over the entire upper levels in what was just two or three minutes. Overall it was a very difficult fire to control and units were not back to quarters until 4PM. There were no injuries and a critique will be held Tuesday night. Captain Dinosaur
   Revisit- 2/28/08
      After a few days to review all the information, some new thoughts are available. At the time of OFD arrival,  some investigators believe the fire already had a foothold on the second floor and attic. Two possible routes of travel were up some vertical chases in the wall of the laundry room, and up the stairs that were located in the kitchen, adjacent to the laundry room. The house was over 100 years old and there were construction modifications which made suppression still more challenging. And balloon construction added to mix. The interior team, which made entry within the first  few minutes, penetrated 75% of the first floor and simultaneously found fire overhead, extending down from the second floor. With fire presenting most obviously on the rear porch, an initial hit with a deluge gun would probably had two effects. One, we would have suppressed that portion of the fire ( but not the second floor extension), and two, we would have blamed the blitz attack on the spread into the rest of the structure. Bottom line, we worked really hard and did much better than we are ready to admit. To all who helped in any way, thank you. Capt Dinosaur