http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/rss News articles published on wgfc.org using RSS 2.0 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:46:27 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=429 Students from the St. Mary's Assumption BVM School in West Grove, PA got some valuable lessons in physics when they participated in their very first egg drop, with a little help from the West Grove Fire Company. Designed to get students from all grades thinking about physics, egg drops make great team exercises, with each team working to design and build containers that will help prevent an egg from breaking when dropped from various heights. The student's projects were first dropped from heights ranging from five to fifteen feet inside the school's auditorium. The "surviving" teams then moved to the final height -- a 50 foot drop from the top of the West Grove Fire Company's Ladder 22. Hauled to the top in a rigged basked, each project was dropped while the entire student body served as witnesses. Some 12 projects managed to protect the egg, but dozens of eggs were broken. Three projects designed by St. Mary's teachers were also dropped from 50 feet -- two of those did not survive. The WGFC participates in a variety of projects with area schools. Egg drops have been performed at the Avon Grove Middle School for more than 15 years. And community fire safety education sessions run by the WGFC are witnessed by hundreds of Avon Grove area students each year. Sat, 04 Feb 2012 21:33:32 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=429 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=428 The West Grove, Union of Oxford and Cochranville Fire Companies were dispatched to a home on Ewing Rd in Penn Twp for a reported trailer fire. The report was a 30' trailer, approximately 30' away from the home, fully engulfed with fire. The trailer contained 55 gallon drums of chemicals used for spray foam insulation and 20 gallons of diesel fuel. Engine 22's crew, along with the crew from Engine 21-2, arrived and stretched 200' of pre-connected hose to extinguish the blaze. The crew from Cochranville assisted with extinguishment and overhaul. Assistant 22 had command and Deputy 21 had operations. Crews operated on scene for about an hour. Thu, 26 Jan 2012 02:38:05 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=428 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=427 At 7:03 AM the Company was dispatched for an Accident with Injuries on Route 796 south of Pennocks Bridge rd. The initial report was a pickup truck vs a snow plow with 1 to be checked for injuries. Ambulance 22-1 arrived first on scene with the patient still confined in the vehicle. Crews from both rescues cribbed the truck and setup the hydraulic equipment to open the driver's side door. The patient was removed from the vehicle and checked by EMS. Crews stood by to block the road until the tow trucks arrived. Assistant 22 had command. Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:34:23 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=427 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=426 At 1357 hours on January 8, 2012 the West Grove Fire Company and Southern Chester County EMS was dispatched to the intersection of Baltimore Pike and Lake Road in London Grove Township for accident reported with occupants trapped. Chief 22, Rescue 22 and Medic 94 all responded within 2 minutes of dispatch of the emergency. Fire Police 23-31 was the first arriving officer on the scene confirming entrapment. Upon Chief 22 arrival "Baltimore Pike Command" was established. Rescue 22 arrived on the scene and began work to free the occupant. The crews stabilized the vehicles and utilized the jaws of life to remove both front passenger and rear passenger doors. The occupant was extricated in less then 15 minutes and Ambulance 22 and Medic 94 assessed and transported the patient to Christiana Trauma Center for evaluation. Command was terminated shortly after patients were transported. The scene was turned over to Pennsylvania State Police. Sun, 08 Jan 2012 22:01:38 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=426 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=425 Fire Box 1205- At 1553 hrs on 12/27/11 the West Grove Fire Company Stations 12, 22, 32 and 3 Engines and a Tanker from the Union Fire Company of Oxford were alerted for a report of a House fire at 302 Independence Circle in Franklin Twp. Initial reports from the Chester County Fireboard indicated heavy black smoke pouring out of the side of the house. Assistant 22 and Deputy 22 went enroute, after receiving multiple calls about the house Chester advised that they believed this would be a working house fire. Upon that report Deputy 22 asked for the working fire dispatch and the first alarm tanker task force. The working fire dispatch added Cochranville Station 27 for RIT, Medic 94, Utilities and Relocates. The Tanker Task Force added an additional Engine from Avondale Station 23 and 5 Tankers (Tankers 23, 24, 27-5, Cecil Tanker 8 and Cecil Tanker 13). Assistant 22 arrived and confirmed the working fire and advised the county that it would be a defensive operation. Assistant 22 established Independence command. Engine 12 arrived and dropped 5" line from the beginning of the development at Walnut Glen Rd and setup in front of the house. They deployed a 2.5" line to the C side of the house. Engine 21-1 setup in an adjacent driveway and deployed a 2.5" line and (2) 1.75" lines to work on extinguishment on the B side as well as to protect the nearby exposures. The exposures were a major concern due to high winds blowing embers across the road endangering adjacent houses. Engine 21-2 established the water supply at Walnut Glen Rd. Crews worked for 2-3 hours to extinguish the blaze. County and State Fire Marshals are investigating the cause. Thank You to Hoseman M. Predmore and Career EMT T. Gathercole for the pictures. Also to Cindy Chambers for providing dinner and FF/EMT Torello and EMT Hughes for coffee for the crews operating on scene! Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:47:50 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=425 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=423 Receiving a Recording when Calling 9-1-1 – Do Not Hang Up Occasionally, usually during severe storms with wide-spread power outages, more 9-1-1 calls are made than can be answered. During these times, after a few rings the caller will receive a recorded message letting the caller know that they have dialed 9-1-1 and all telecommunicators are busy. The recording will instruct the caller to stay on the line, except if they are calling to report a power outage. If this is the case, the caller will be instructed to call their electric provider. Even during these busy times, callers should not hang up once they have dialed 9-1-1. Even with a hang up, we still receive your phone information, and have to call back and verify that you do not need assistance; this COULD DELAY HELP FOR SOMEONE ELSE WHO NEEDS IT. If you dial 9-1-1 by error, simply let the call-taker know when they answer the call. The call-taker may ask some questions to verify that the call was dialed in error and that you truly do not need help. If you have questions about calling 9-1-1, feel free to contact us at 610-344-5000 and ask to speak with someone in the 9-1-1 Operations Division or Public Information Officer. Thank You, Chester County Department of Emergency Services Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:19:14 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=423 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=424 On December 15th members of the WGFC traveled to the Wagontown Fire station for the fall graduation of the Chester County Fire Training session. The ceremony is a formal event, to honor those who have committed many hours to training. This fall the WGFC had three members, volunteer ten weeks, 175 hours of their time for the Fire I program. The program teaches the basic skills necessary for firefighting. Members attended classroom lecture every Monday and Thursday evening, while weekends were devoted to developing their skills in live structural, gas and vehicle fire burns. WGFC fall graduates were FF Mike Lindsey also voted by his peers as spokesmen, FF Brandon McGonigal and FF Cody Meade. We also had six members participate in the Fire Officer I program, developing and furthering their management skills. The Fire Officer I is college accredited class requiring the student to complete many written assignments. The lessons are developed to strengthen skills needed for fire ground operations as well as management; investigations, discipline, budgets, etc. Members graduating were Deputy Chief Matt Wood, Asst. Chief Eric Felker, Captain Justin Gattorno, Lieut. Ted Paras, Safety Officer Kevin Sweeney and FF/EMT Ian Torello. Both programs consisted of a written and practical exam, successful completion certifies the student nationwide. A lot of time and dedication was demonstrated by each student to continue WGFC's commitment to training. WGFC congratulates each member for their personal accomplishments. Wed, 28 Dec 2011 17:32:44 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=424 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=422 Fire Box 22-14 At 2209 hours the company was alerted for a chimney fire in the 50 block of Penny Lane in Penn Township. The report stated flames are coming from the chimney. Deputy 22 (Wood), Engine 22 (FF O'Connell) with a crew of four volunteers and Ambulance 22-2 went enroute. Engine 12 with three volunteers and Ladder 22 with one volunteer were next to respond. As the Deputy Chief and Engine 22 were crossing Ewing Road flames were visible from the area of the call. Once on arrival Deputy 22 established "Penny Lane" Command and advised Fireboard of fire showing Side D & to upgrade the assignment to a working fire dispatch. Engine 22 took the driveway and the crew split tasks with FF O'Connell pulling the 200' attack line to extinguish the fire, FF's Pearson & McGonigal placed the 35' extension and 16' roof ladders to gain access to the top part of the chimney & Engineer Hicks hand jacked a 3" supply line for the next in engine to connect. Ladder 22 arrived in the driveway behind Engine 22; and Driver Talley set up more ground ladders and portable lights on sides A & D. Engine 12 (FF Price) arrived and laid a 5" supply line into the development for water supply and FF's Price & Meade went interior to check for extension in the first floor. With the upgrade that brought Station 27 full company and one engine from Station 21. Engine 27-1 arrived and was ordered to check the second floor for extension, while the engine crew from Engine 21-2 checked the basement. Engine 27-2 and Engine 27-5 staged at the 5" supply line, while the crews joined with Rescue 27 crew for the RIT assignment. Squad 22, Ambulance 22-2 & Medic 94-1 all worked together setting up rehab with hot chocolate and water. Once the fire was under control, all engine companies worked from the exterior on side D to check for any extension. Engine 27-1 crew also controlled the propane tank into the structure, while PECO controlled the electrical service. Crews remained onscene while the Fire Marshal investigated. All 22 units clears at 2227 hours. Special thanks to the standby companies Engine 24-2 & Tanker 36 at Station 22 and Newark, DE Engine 7-4 at Station 12. On Monday afternoon following the fire, the homeowners sent this message to the WGFC: "ENORMOUS THANKS to you, everyone at Station 22 and the other fire companies that responded to our house Saturday night! You saved our house and we are beyond grateful. We were impressed with the speed of your response as well as how quickly everything was brought under control once the trucks arrived. It was reassuring that the neighboring fire companies were at the ready had the situation escalated. We also appreciated the respect that the group showed for our property even amid the event. The team carefully avoided throwing the debris on our fence after the fire which definitely took more time I'm sure - and also significant because found out that our insurance doesn't cover fences, and the application of water was appropriate and judicious enough to spare our house from too much water damage. Everyone was very friendly and helpful throughout the whole event. It's comforting to know that we live in a place with such professional and caring volunteer firemen and firewomen. Thanks again for saving our new home (we just moved in Dec 3rd)! Please share our sincere thanks with your team and the other companies! All the best & Happy Holidays, Erin & Jim Beattie." Fire Box 22-02 Just as members finished getting the trucks back in service for the next run, the alert was sent out at 2353 hours for a furnace malfunction in the 500 block of Baker Station Road in London Grove Township. Initial reports stated smoke was coming from the heater in the basement. Chief 22 (Weer), Deputy 22 (Wood) & Engine 22 (Lt. Vattilana) with five volunteers made the response. Ladder 22 and Engine 12 each with three volunteers were next to respond. Chief 22 arrived to a 3 story single family dwelling and assumed "Command 22", while Deputy 22 took the operations and investigated the basement area. Lieutenant 22 directed the Engine 22 crew on the interior. Crews used a water can to contain the smoldering insulation and controlled the heating unit until a service representative makes an inspection. All units returned Sunday morning at 0013 hours. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:21:51 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=422 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=421 On 12/3/11 at 2300 the West Grove Fire Company was dispatched for an accident with entrapment. Ambulance 22-1 went enroute immediately after the dispatch. The Ambulance arrived and reported that there was one car into a tree with one patient still trapped in the vehicle, unconscious but breathing. Rescue 22 arrived and split their crew between stabilization and the setup of the hydraulics tools. The rescue crew was tasked with removal of the roof to gain access to the patient. Once the vehicle was stabilized crews found undetonated airbags in the A post's. The airbags were exposed and the crew was able to cut around the undetonated cylinders without causing any further issues. Rescue 12 arrived and supplemented Rescue 22's crew. They all went to work on cutting the A, B and C posts to remove the roof. The passenger's seat was laid back and the patient was placed on a backboard and lifted out. The patient was transported to a local trauma center for treatment. Deputy 22 had command and Assistant 22 had operations. The car was towed out by Riveras towing. Crews remained on the scene while PSP investigated the accident. Crews cleared at 00:15. Sun, 04 Dec 2011 12:28:24 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=421 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=419 At 07:07 AM on Saturday 11/13/11 the West Grove Fire Company was dispatched to Joanne way in New London township for a reported Trash Fire. Initial reports from Chester County were that the reporting party said the their garage was on fire the previous night but appeared to be out and wanted the fire department to check. Engine 12 arrived on scene and confirmed the report. At some point during the previous night the garage caught fire but due to lack of oxygen the fire burned itself out. The owner lost 2 pets in the fire which also caused extensive damage to the interior of the garage. Crews checked over the entire garage with thermal imaging cameras. The Chester County Fire Marshals were requested to the scene to investigate. Crews cleared the scene at 09:00 am. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:23:22 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=419 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=418 At 9:13 PM on Saurday night the West Grove Fire Company was alerted to the Sunoco A-Plus Mini Mart in New London for a report of Debris on the road. The intial report was that there were approximately 4-5 broken thermometers with Mercury laying on the road. Brush 12 arrived on the scene and found the thermometers on the sidewalk directly in front of the store. Rescue 22 arrived to assist Brush 12 and established Sunoco command. Command requested Hazmat 15 to respond to the scene. Crews maintained a perimeter around the spill and evacuated the store employees until the Hazmat crews arrived and cleaned up the spill. Once Hazmat 15 arrived and setup, two Hazmat team members approached the spill in PPE and confirmed it was Mercury. The Hazmat crew cleaned up the spill and took readings outside and inside the store and confirmed that the scene was safe. The DEP was notified along with New London township and crews went available. Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:56:57 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=418 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=417 On November 2, 2011, Chester County's Hero Plaque Program payed tribute to a local Firefighter, nearly 30 years after his Line of Duty Death. Assistant Chief of the Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company in Unionville, Roy A Harris died May 25, 1982, while operating along side a roadway at a local fire pond refilling the engine's water tank. A ceremony was held at the Chester County Courthouse where nearly 100 local fire fighters, law enforcement agents and relatives of Roy's payed tribute to him. Roy Harris is the first fire fighter in Chester County to have his name honored along side eight other fallen law enforcement agents on the court house plaque. During the ceremony honoring Harris, The West Grove Fire Company provided a rescue standby for the members of the Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company while they attended and payed homage to their fallen brother. For more information on the ceremony and tribute see The Daily Local Website at: http://dailylocal.com/articles/2011/11/02/news/doc4eb18fbdec6f4601106046.txt Mon, 07 Nov 2011 15:35:49 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=417 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=415 October 27, 2011 - 0923 HRS: While returning from a previous incident, CCFB (Chester County Fire Board) dispatched WGFC to an auto accident with unknown injuries in Franklin Township. WGFC units Rescue 22, Rescue 12, Ambulance 22-3 and Assistant 22 responded to the emergency. CCFB advised WGFC units that 911 callers reported one vehicle into a telephone pole with airbag deployment. EMS Lieutenant Weir arrived on scene first and confirmed the report. After assessing the scene, EMS Lieutenant Weir reported entrapment of one victim. Assistant Chief Felker arrived on location and established Rt.896 Command. WGFC Rescue apparatus arrived on scene and began extrication of the victim. WGFC rescue crews removed the passenger door and the entire roof of the vehicle in order to remove the patient. EMS crews worked inside the vehicle during extrication operations and provided treatment to the patient. In just 21 minutes after arriving on scene, WGFC rescue crews had stabilized the vehicle, cut away obstructions and safely removed the patient from the wreckage. The patient was transported to Christiana Hospital with minor injuries in the care of WGFC EMS and Medic 94 crews. Before leaving the scene, WGFC crews cleaned up equipment and assisted the Pennsylvania State Police with clearing the road. WGFC returned available at 1015 hours. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 21:11:46 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=415 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=414 At 0857 hours, Station 22 was alerted for a pickup dump truck fire on the South Bound Route 1 Bypass at mile marker 13.0. Assistant 22 went enroute a few minutes after dispatch, followed by Engine 22 and Ambulance 22-3. Chester updated the report to Assistant 22 that a Trooper was on scene reporting fire was out. West Grove units arrived on scene with light smoke coming from behind the passenger compartment. Engine 22's crew pulled the booster line to extinguish the smoldering debris. West Grove units returned available at 0916 hours. Thu, 27 Oct 2011 20:24:14 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=414 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=413 The West Grove Fire Company's 8th Annual Golf Outing was held on Friday, September 23, 2011 at the Chisel Creek Golf Course. The day dawned sunny and pleasant. Wait a minute, wrong day. Our day dawned cloudy with rain, rain, and more rain. Out of the 60 golfers who signed up, 45 of us braved the weather. We pushed back the shotgun start from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm. From our start and most of the day we played in the off and on again light showers. Then 5:00 pm came and so did the heavier bands of rain. Needless to say that we were all dripping when we finished the course and sat down to dinner. Still one can say that we all enjoyed ourselves. That some of us played the best golf ever in that pouring rain. That those of us who, in the past, have scoffed at golfers playing in these conditions, had a great time playing in those conditions. Here is my version of a popular television commercial: Eagle Sponsorship - $1000 Birdie Sponsorship - $500 Hole Sponsor - $100 Entrance Fee $85.00; Playing 18 holes with friends – Priceless. Thank you to everyone who laughed at the weather and came out to support the West Grove Fire Company and its' restoration of Antique 22. A special thank you to my volunteers who certainly could have stayed home where it was warm and dry but instead ended up as wet as the rest of us! First Place --- Brent Smith Chuck Davis Robert Denitzio George Henry Second Place --- John Stout Don Taylor Mike Chapman Steve Melton Third Place --- Sheila Bury Greg Ward Kevin Ward Jim Haney Closest to the Pin Male Closest to the Pin Female Randy Brotzman Sheila Bury Longest Drive Male Longest Drive Female Matthew Tally Lorna Wohl Straightest Drive Male Straightest Drive Female Arron Stoltzfus Carol Eichinger Sat, 12 Nov 2011 18:26:02 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=413 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=412 Bistro 24 to Donate 10% of Proceeds to Mission for Marcy on November 6th By Uwchlan Ambulance October 23, 2011 Marcy Riale, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), has dedicated her life to helping other people. Not only has she been providing emergency care to the sick and injured of Chester County for almost 16 years, she also has served as a dedicated EMS instructor who has trained thousands of students in CPR and other emergency medical courses. She has earned numerous certifications and has proven to be a respected medical provider throughout the region. Just this year she was recognized for her work by being awarded the 2011 Educator of the Year by the Chester County EMS Council. After saving numerous lives, helping countless number of people, and educating thousands, it is time to help Marcy. Marcy is currently in her own life battle as she has been diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer. While most people would give up with such devastating news, Marcy has kept on going. She continues to teach EMS students on a regular basis all over the county. On Sunday November 6, 2011 from 6am to midnight, Bistro 24 (formerly the Exton Diner) will be donating 10% of all proceeds to be divided between two funds that have been created. -The Marcy Riale Benefit Fund – Established to assist Marcy with her costly medical bills. -The Marcy Riale EMS Education Fund - Established in Marcy's honor for years of hard work and dedication in the EMS community. The scholarship fund will pay for two individuals each year to attend EMT class at no cost to the student. This is a semester-long course and will include all supplies needed. When: November 6, 2011 6am to Midnight Where: Bistro 24 100 Marchwood Rd Exton, PA 19341 610-280-9900 *There will be special extras during the day as this will be Bistro 24's Grand Opening Weekend Celebration!* Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:14:23 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=412 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=411 Generator Safety Tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission Consumer Product Safety Commission Safety Alert Portable Generator Hazards Portable generators are useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed, but they also can be hazardous. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, fire and burns. Every year, people die in incidents related to portable generator use. Most of the incidents associated with portable generators reported to CPSC involve CO poisoning from generators used indoors or in partially-enclosed spaces. Carbon Monoxide Hazards When used in a confined space, generators can produce high levels of CO within minutes. When you use a portable generator, remember that you cannot see or smell CO. Even if you do not smell exhaust fumes, you may still be exposed to CO. Danger labels are required on all portable generators manufactured or imported on or after May 14, 2007. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. DO NOT DELAY. The CO from generators can rapidly kill you. Follow these safety tips to protect against CO poisoning. NEVER use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can quickly build up in these areas and can linger for hours, even after the generator has shut off. Follow the instructions that come with your generator. Locate the unit outdoors and far from doors, windows, and vents that could allow CO to come indoors. Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer's instructions. CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of the latest safety standards (UL 2034, IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01). Test batteries monthly. To avoid CO poisoning when using generators: Never run generators indoors, including garages, basements, crawlspaces and sheds. Get to fresh air right away if you start to feel dizzy or weak. Electrical Hazards Generators pose a risk of shock and electrocution, especially if they are operated in wet conditions. If you must use a generator when it is wet outside, protect the generator from moisture to help avoid the shock/electrocution hazard, but do so without operating the generator indoors or near openings to any building that can be occupied in order to help avoid the CO hazard. Operate the generator under an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water cannot reach it or puddle or drain under it. Dry your hands, if wet, before touching the generator. Connect appliances to the generator using heavy-duty extension cords that are specifically designed for outdoor use. Make sure the wattage rating for each cord exceeds the total wattage of all appliances connected to it. Use extension cords that are long enough to allow the generator to be placed outdoors and far away from windows, doors and vents to the home or to other structures that could be occupied. Check that the entire length of each cord is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs. Protect the cord from getting pinched or crushed if it passes through a window or doorway. NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as "backfeeding." This is extremely dangerous and presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer. It also bypasses some of the built-in household circuit protection devices. Fire Hazards Never store fuel for your generator in the home. Gasoline, propane, kerosene, and other flammable liquids should be stored outside of living areas in properly-labeled, non-glass safety containers. Do not store them near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage. Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite. Follow the below link for tips from the National Fire Protection Association: http://www.nfpa.org/assets/files/PDF/Public%20Education/GeneratorSafetyTips.pdf Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:17:13 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=411 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=410 With Hurricane Irene approaching here are some things that you and your family can do to keep yourself prepared with a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: - Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation - Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food - Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both - Flashlight and extra batteries - First aid kit - Whistle to signal for help - Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place - Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation - Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities - Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) - Local maps - Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit: - Prescription medications and glasses - Infant formula and diapers - Pet food and extra water for your pet - Cash or traveler's checks and change - Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK) - PDF, 277Kb) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information. - Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov. - Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold- weather climate. - Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. - Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. - Fire Extinguisher - Matches in a waterproof container - Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items - Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels - Paper and pencil - Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children Find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency by visiting FoodSafety.gov. This and other Disaster information can be found at: With Hurricane Irene approaching here are some things that you and your family can do to keep yourself prepared with a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: - Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation - Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food - Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both - Flashlight and extra batteries - First aid kit - Whistle to signal for help - Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place - Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation - Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities - Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food) - Local maps - Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit: - Prescription medications and glasses - Infant formula and diapers - Pet food and extra water for your pet - Cash or traveler's checks and change - Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container. You can use the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK) - PDF, 277Kb) developed by Operation Hope, FEMA and Citizen Corps to help you organize your information. - Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov. - Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold- weather climate. - Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate. - Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. - Fire Extinguisher - Matches in a waterproof container - Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items - Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels - Paper and pencil - Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children Find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency by visiting FoodSafety.gov. This and other Disaster information can be found at: http://www.ready.gov/ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:16:13 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=410 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=409 Three West Grove Members graduated from the Chester County EMT Program on Thursday, August 11. Nicole Kloss, Gayle Miller, and Danielle Hughes participated in the summer EMT Program which consisted of a Monday thru Thursday, 8 hour a day course for six weeks. They all worked extremely hard and showed extraordinary dedication to obtaining their EMT Certifications so they can better serve the community. These members had to sacrifice their time away from jobs and family to participate in this course. In typical West Grove style these students excelled and were rewarded with certificates for perfect attendance for the 140 hour course. We want to say congratulations and thank you for advancing yourselves for the betterment of the community! We look forward to seeing you on the streets! Mon, 15 Aug 2011 17:03:52 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=409 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=408 Rescue Box - Newark, DE At 0635 hours the Chester County Fireboard alerted Rescue 22 to assist Aetna Hose, Hook & Ladder Company (Newark, DE) Stations 7, 8, 9 & 10 on a motor vehicle collision in the area of New London Road (State Route 896) and Harvest Lane. Due to the location of this incident and that all other Newark Stations were scattered all over their district on other assignments, West Grove Fire Company was placed on the box. Rescue 12 with four volunteers made the response as did Squad 22 with three volunteers. Rescue 12 and Squad 22 arrived together to find a pickup truck across the roadway into a tree, with New Castle County Paramedics and Ambulance A-8 attending to the patient inside the truck. The crews joined together to first make a clear path for patient removal by the use of a chainsaw, while the other members prepared to stabilize the truck. Delaware State Police Trooper 4 was requested to the scene as the air medical unit which Rescue 19 from Hockessin, DE (Station 19) handled the landing zone assignment. The patient was removed and loaded onto a stokes basket and was taking in Ambulance A-8 to the landing zone where Trooper 4 made the flight. After the extrication, Rescue 12 stayed on scene until DelDOT arrived to clear the debris from the fallen tree that covered the northbound lanes of 896. West Grove units cleared the scene at 0737 hours. Tue, 09 Aug 2011 22:03:05 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=408 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=407 Fire Box - 1208 Today box alarm 1208 was alerted for an automobile fire in at the intersection of Flint Hill Road & Weaver Lane in London Britain Township. Volunteer O'Connell was first to arrive on the scene and advised Chester County Fire Dispatch of a working engine compartment fire. Engine 22 made the response with a crew of three as well as Engine 12 with three. Lieutenant 12 arrived next to confirm the report and took the operations sector of the command as Deputy 22 established Command 22. Engine 22 crew arrived and staged just north of the scene and the crew split with one member stretching 200' of 1.75" to begin making an attack, while the other used hand tools to gain access through popping the hood. Engine 12 arrived and crew backed up the initial engine company crew members. Fire was placed under control within 10 minutes of arrival with the use of 500 gallons. Deputy 22 placed the box in service and crews repacked the hose and waited on Pennsylvania State Police to arrive. Sun, 03 Jul 2011 15:15:25 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=407 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=406 West Grove EMS was contacted by Canine partners for life to assist in training their service animals to deal with emergency situations. Ambulance 22-1 and 22-3 arrived at the school and assisted the canines and their partners onto the stretcher and into the ambulance. They were each then taken on a short trip with lights and sirens to get the service dogs used to being in a emergency situation. All did well and West Grove Fire Company was pleased to help out! Canine Partners For Life (CPL) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to training service dogs, home companion dogs, and residential companion dogs to assist individuals who have a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities. Based in Cochranville, Pennsylvania, CPL places service dogs nationwide. Home companion dogs are generally placed within a 250-mile radius of the campus (sometimes further) and residential companions are place within a 100-mile radius of the campus. Each CPL dog receives a comprehensive and customized training program to meet the specific needs of their human partner. Depending on the assigned program, the dog will receive up to two years of training before being trained to work with its person. CPL has one of the strongest follow-up programs in the industry to ensure the success of each team throughout the lifetime of the partnership. Wed, 29 Jun 2011 18:20:35 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=406 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=405 Today, the members of West Grove Fire Company, Avon Grove High School SADD, SCCEMS Medic 94-1, Christiana Life Net Helicopter, PSPA, Blittersdorfs Towing and Kerry Shelton, participated in the Mock Crash for the Juniors and Seniors at Avon Grove High School. This crash is a set up to show the students the dangers of inatentive driving, whether it involves alcohol or texting while driving. Even too many passengers in the car and changing the radio station can lead to disasterous results. Our scenerio involved two cars and six victims. Just as a real accident would evolve, the fire company responded and evaluated the scene and proceded to use the Jaws-of-Life to cut the victims from the vehicles. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Another was serious enough to need to be flown to the trauma center. The other injured passengers had various injuries and would have been treated at the trauma center as well. The driver of one vehicle was intoxicated, and had minor injuries, and was, susequently, arrested, as he did indeed fail his field sobriety test. A huge Thank You! to SADD Advisor Christie Gray and all the students involved with SADD. It was an honor for us to help bring this message across to all of your classmates. Sat, 04 Jun 2011 11:55:24 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=405 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=404 The West Grove Fire Company participated in the annual Kennett Square Memorial Day Parade. It was a very warm day and well attended as people lined the streets of Kennett and waved as we passed. Many Verterans were amoung the crowd and we are honored to participate in an event to honor those who fought for our freedom. Mon, 30 May 2011 18:38:00 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=404 http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=402 The Pennsylvania State Police- Avondale Barracks recently held a rededication ceremony for their newly renovated building. There was a short ceremony with ribbon cutting prior to the barracks being open for tours. These new renovations enhance the working environment for the Men and Women stationed here as well as it created a opportunity to upgrade equipment at the station. These upgrades include new interrogation rooms, a new dining area, a new gym area, new locker rooms and a upgraded communications room. West Grove Fire Company was glad to be on hand to celebrate the new renovations. Congratulations on the New Renovations!!!! Sun, 29 May 2011 05:32:48 GMT http://www.wgfc.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=402