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ARCHIVED NEWS - 2008

December 30, 2008 - Submitted by Captain Craig Williams - City of Batavia Fire Department  UPDATED
On December 21, 2008 at 11:15 AM, the City of Batavia received a call reporting smell of smoke inside the building at 21 Liberty Street, Ficarella’s Pizzeria. Upon arrival light smoke was visible inside with a strong odor of wood burning. Upon investigating a fire was found in the attic. The fire was quickly extinguished by fire department personnel. The cause of the fire was a malfunctioning neon sign which started the wood structure on fire. Damage is estimated at $2,500.00. Chief Thomas Dillon was the Incident Commander and Captain Craig Williams was in charge of Operations. Crews were on the scene for about 1 hour and there were no injuries reported. DAILY NEWS

December 30, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yaeger -GM1
It is with deep sadness I inform you of the passing of Brother Firefighter Norm Koch. Norm was the Past Chief of the Corfu Fire District and currently a Commissioner of the East Pembroke Fire District and Fire Police Captain.
Norm passed away this afternoon while assisting at the scene of a MVA on Pearl St.. Norm suffered an apparent heart attack and was transported to UMMC where he was pronounced.

Firefighter Koch had over 50 years in the Fire Service with Corfu and East Pembroke and will be deeply missed.

Please extend your sympathy to Norm's Family and Friends and Brother and Sister Firefighters.

Funeral services and arrangements will be forwarded when known.

Tim Yaeger - Coordinator
Genesee County Emergency Services
7690 State St. Road
Batavia NY, 14020
585.344.0078
tyaeger@co.genesee.ny.us

December 29, 2008 - Story and Photos by Sean Downing  - Oakfield 753
On Sunday December 28, at 19:28 hours the Oakfield Fire Department was dispatched to a reported MVA on Fox Road. The driver of the vehicle lost control striking a power pole then rolled the vehicle coming to rest along side a tree. The driver of the car was self extricated and taken to UMMC for evaluation. Power on Fox Road was disrupted and the Road closed due to a leaning power pole and low hanging wires. PHOTOS

December 22, 2008 - Story by Chief Bill Schutt - Alabama FD
On Saturday December 20th The Town of Alabama Fire Dept was dispatched to a reported garage fire on Bloomingdale Rd Tonawanda Reservation. On arrival Alabama 151 and 153 found a working garage fire. Alabama crews were assisted by mutual aid crews from Indian Falls, Pembroke, Akron and Oakfield. Thank you to all who assisted.

December 18, 2008 - Story by FF Bruce Ross - Indian Falls FD
At 1632 hrs Dec. 17th, Pembroke & Indian Falls Fire Dept. was dispatched for a reported structure fire at 395 Akron Rd., 651 went on location with heavy smoke in the area and seconds later confirmed a working structure fire and requested a second alarm assignment bringing mutual aid from Akron, East Pembroke, Alabama, Corfu, Darien, Crittenden, City Batavia for FAST Team. Cause was believed to be a refrigerator motor.

December 18, 2008 - Story and Photos by Jay Lynch
On Monday December 15th the Bethany Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the trailer at 5807 Ellicott St in the Town of Bethany. Bethany 351 went on location and confirmed the report and requested Mutual Aide from Stafford, Pavilion, Town of Batavia, Le Roy, Alexander and the FAST Team from The City of Batavia. PHOTOS

December 17, 2008 - Story and Photos by Jeff Whitcombe
At approximately 7:40 a.m. on Wednesday December 10, 2008, City of Batavia Firefighters were dispatched to a reported structure fire at 25 Fisher Park. Upon arrival firefighters found smoke coming from the basement. A General Alarm was sounded by City Command which brought all off duty firefighters and Engine 14 to the scene and 1 Engine from the Town of Batavia Fire Department to City Fire Headquarters to stand-by. Firefighters from Engine 12 and Ladder 15 stretched a handline and gained access to the basement. Fire was found in the basement and knocked down by the firefighters on the handline but the fire had extended into the walls of the balloon frame construction house. Firefighters worked at the scene for about three hours and 15 minutes. The fire was reported under control at 8:42 a.m. One Firefighter sustained a minor hand injury and was treated at UMMC-ER. PHOTOS

December 13, 2008 - Source - RNEWS & BATAVIA DAILY NEWS
Batavia firefighters called to a structure fire at 25 Fisher Park. RNEWS DAILY NEWS

December 07, 2008 - Submitted by Lt. Nate Fix - Town of Batavia FD
Town Of Batavia Barn Fire at My "T" Acres on 10/04/08. The fire was at 8127 Lewiston Rd. in Batavia. A large plume of black smoke can be seen drifting over Batavia. A Big Thanks goes out to all Mutual aid fire departments involved. PHOTOS

November 18, 2008 - SOURCE - RNEWS
Batavia Home Sustains Major Fire Damage: In news out of Genesee County, fire caused thousands of dollars worth of damage to a home in the city of Batavia Tuesday night. The fire broke out just after 9:30 a.m. on Oak Street. Firefighters say when they arrived on scene they found heavy flames coming from a second-floor bedroom. Crews were able to contain the fire to the room. Some adjoining rooms had some smoke and water damage. No one was hurt. Firefighters say the cause appears to be accidental.

November 18, 2008 - Submitted by James Fox
LODD    DETROIT, Mich. -- A Detroit firefighter was killed when the roof of an abandoned house collapsed on him Saturday morning. The fire started around 5 a.m. in the vacant house on Kirby Street, in the area of Van Dyke and Warren on Detroit's east side. Authorities said Walter Harris, 37, and two other firefighters were in the attic of the house putting out hot spots when it collapsed and trapped the men. The other two men were able to escape but Harris was crushed by debris. He was rushed to Detroit Receiving Hospital but did not survive.

Fellow firefighters said Harris, a 17-year veteran, was the glue of the firehouse. "Walter loved to laugh. It's going to be hard to go through a day here without hearing his laugh," said Lt. Steve Kirschner. Harris has six children. The youngest is 1 and another is a Detroit firefighter. "He loved his family so much. He was so proud of them," said Kirschner. Kirschner said he wanted Harris' wife to know he talked about her all throughout the day Friday.

Harris was a man of faith and served as the department chaplain. "Their (Harris' family) faith is getting through it. They grieve differently from people who don't have faith," said Kirschner. He added that Harris broke the color and social barrier. "He made everyone else around him more like him," said Kirschner.

November 15, 2008 - Submitted by Randy McIntire - 1st Asst. Chief
On Tuesday, November 11, 2008 the Town of Batavia Fire Department was called to Route 98 South between Rose Road and Pike Road for Motor Vehicle with unknown injuries. 2nd Assistant Chief Dan Coffey (254) responded from the Lewiston Road fire station. Chief Bob Hunt (251) responded from his home shortly thereafter. While en route, Genesee County Deputies reported a roll over into a tree at that location. Injuries were reported and possible entrapment. Chief Coffey requested a Mercy Flight helicopter to the scene. Chief Coffey observed a victim located some distance from the accident and called for a second ambulance from the City of Batavia. Traffic was diverted onto Rose Road in the north and onto Pike Road in the south by Town of Batavia Fire Department personnel. A second victim, mildly injured was treated and released by City Medics. The driver was transported via Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital. PHOTOS

October 27, 2008 - Submitted by WEBMASTER
This link was provided by GM1. www.respondersafety.com . I have added it to the LINKS page. It is in regards to the letter that was sent out to all county Chiefs. Hopefully it will answer your questions about the vest issues or provide some guidance.

October 27, 2008 - Submitted by Andy Merkel - Alabama F.D.
At 14:00 on Sunday October 26th, Alabama firefighters were dispatched to a reported chimney fire at 7434 Allegany Road. While en-route units were updated that the fire had possibly extended into a wall of the structure. First arriving units 152 (Asst. Chief Patnode) and 153 (Asst. Chief Merkel) went on-location with smoke showing from the "D" side of the structure, at which time Asst. Chief Patnode requested the balance of a structure fire second alarm, bringing mutual aid to assist Alabama. Asst. Chief Merkel established command on the “A” side of the structure, while Asst. Chief Patnode assumed the role of Operations. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack and Command reported the fire under control in about 15 minutes. The swift initial attack limited damage to only $5,000 to the room of origin. Mutual aid received: Tankers from Oakfield, East Pembroke, Indian Falls, and Akron; Engines from Indian Falls and Newstead; a Heavy Rescue from Oakfield; FAST Team and ALS Ambulance from City of Batavia; and a fill-in engine from Shelby to Alabama Station 2.

October 19, 2008 - Submitted by Beth Scroger - Alabama FD PR Rep.
Alabama Fire Department is having their Annual Christmas Raffle on Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 5:00 to 10:00 pm. Ticket Cost is $15.00 each and includes admission, spaghetti dinner, beverages and door prizes. There will also be a 50/50 Raffle, Chinese Auction and Side Raffles. Please contact any Alabama Fire Dept. member for tickets or Call Beth at 716-560-0324.

October 19, 2008 - Submitted by Beth Scroger - Alabama FD PR Rep.
On Wednesday, October 15th, the Alabama Fire Dept. toured the new communications center on Park Road as their monthly training night. It was very impressive and is recommended for all fire departments to see the dispatchers in their work area.

October 16, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
We are trying something new with the training page. In speaking with Jeanette, she has agreed to submit a class roster to me so you can see how many have signed up for each class. Let me know your comments, Ralf.

October 16, 2008 - Submitted by Bob Tripp - GC Dispatcher
Bob has revised the Run Car Worksheet (WORD) Additional items have been added. Please use this form to create or modify existing run cards. The AGENCY and INCIDENT TYPE have drop down choices to select from. PLEASE REMEMBER TO SAVE TO YOUR COMPUTER. YOU CAN do this by CLICKING ON THE LINK TO OPEN THIS DOCUMENT AND SAVE IT or RIGHT CLICK THE LINK AND "SAVE TARGET AS" TO YOUR LOCAL DRIVE. This form has been added to the forms page as well for future reference. LINK

October 11, 2008 - Submitted by Kendall Fire DIst.
The Kendall Fire District is accepting sealed bids for two separate trucks. RESCUE  PUMPER/TANKER

October 11, 2008 - Submitted by Bob Tripp - GC Dispatcher
Bob has designed a Run Car Worksheet (WORD) for you to download to your own computer. Please use this form to create or modify existing run cards. The AGENCY and INCIDENT TYPE have drop down choices to select from. PLEASE REMEMBER TO SAVE TO YOUR COMPUTER. YOU CAN do this by CLICKING ON THE LINK TO OPEN THIS DOCUMENT AND SAVE IT or RIGHT CLICK THE LINK AND "SAVE TARGET AS" TO YOUR LOCAL DRIVE. This form has been added to the forms page as well for future reference. LINK

October 11, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yeager - GM1
Genesee County will be hosting a Street Smart Truck Company Operations, Tactics, Tips & Tricks Seminar . The Genesee County seminar is October 23, at 7:00 p.m., at John Kennedy School, Batavia. DETAILS

October 11, 2008 - Submitted by Randy McIntire - 1st Asst. Chief  UPDATED
On Wednesday evening, the Town of Batavia's pager tones were activated for a "Commercial Fire Alarm" at 8170 Batavia Stafford Townline Road, College Village, in Building C. Initial response was first from 2nd Assistant Chief Dan Coffey, then Chief Bob Hunt followed immediately by 1st Assistant Chief Randy McIntire. While enroute, Genesee County Dispatchers activated the alert tones and notified responding units that a second call from security indicated a working fire in room C-102. 2nd Asst. Chief Dan Coffey immediately requested the remainder of the structure fire first alarm, bringing, mutual aid units into the scene and fill-ins at both of the TBFD stations. Upon arrival, 2nd Asst. Coffey, reported heavy smoke from the apartment door and windows. He ordered Engine 18 to secure a water supply at the hydrant adjacent to both Building C and D and stretch hose lines in the north entrance door. Chief Hunt assumed command and Deputy Chief Paul Barrett assumed the operations function. A grease fire on the stove was discovered and extinguished. The room was ventilated with positive pressure fans and the stove was removed to the outside of the building. Lack of extension was confirmed with a thermal imaging camera as ventilation continued. Quick, and overwhelming action by all departments saved a great deal of damage to the building. Special thanks to all responding mutual aid companies. PHOTOS

October 11, 2008 - Submitted by Randy McIntire - 2nd Asst. Chief
The Town of Batavia Fire Department hosted it's annual fire prevention open house at our station located on Lewiston Road on Sunday, October 5, 2008. With the help of Lowe's, a new business opening in Batavia in a few weeks, we had a very successful day. Lowe's, the sole sponsor of our event, donated 250 smoke detectors and 60 combination smoke and carbon dioxide detectors as well as free hotdogs to be given away during the day. Our firefighters provided hands on tours of our equipment, while the kids built tool boxes made from kits supplied by Lowe's. Each child, at the beginning of the tool box build was given a Lowe's apron, customized with the child's name, along with safety glasses and a child sized hammer. When the tool box was completed they took it, the apron and safety glasses home with them. The sound of hammering was deafening at times. A special thank you goes to Lowe's and the 20 Lowe's employees who volunteered their time to make the event a great one. Thanks to FF Joshua Finn and his committee for planning the event. PHOTOS

October 06, 2008 - Submitted by Scott Kibler -
On Sunday October 5, 2008 The Stafford Fire Department held its open house to kick off Fire Prevention week, along with a Mercy Flight fly in, free lunch was provided to all, many interesting displays, live demonstrations and a lot of activities for the children that were there. There was also a check presentation from Chief Brian Pocock and Car Committee Chairman Robin Krenzer to Karen Bridge from Mercy Flight in the amount of $5000.00 making this our 17th year donating to Mercy Flight. PHOTOS

October 06, 2008 - Submitted by Chief Bill Schutt - Alabama FD
At 09:42 Sunday Oct 5th the Town of Alabama Fire Department was dispatched to an EMS call for a woman in labor. Upon arrival crews found that they had a baby girl not willing to wait for her mother to be transported to the hospital. The Alabama EMS crew consisting of 1st Asst. Chief Patnode, EMS Captain Brunea and Lieutenants Vose and Hendershott delivered the baby without incident. Mother and child were further treated and transported by City of Batavia Ambulance. We are checking to see if this is the first delivery by our department, it is certainly a 1st in the past 20 years.

September 28, 2008 - Submitted Webmaster
On October 12th, the Bethany Fire Department will be hosting a Fire Prevention Open House, All you can eat Breakfast and ATV Raffle. See the Events page for details.

September 27, 2008 - Submitted Doug VanSlyke
 GOT PILLS?  If you have prescription pills that are outdated, unneeded or unusable, you can drop them off at this collection point on October 3rd at the Pavilion Fire Department. It is open to residents in Genesee, Livingston & Wyoming Counties DETAILS

September 27, 2008 - Submitted Doug VanSlyke
Flu vaccinations available with locations. DETAILS

September 26, 2008 - Submitted by Jeanette Diehl
A reminder that the next meeting of the MAFAB is scheduled for Thursday, October 9th at 7:30 PM at the Fire Training Center.

September 25, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yeager - GM1
The Genesee County Emergency Communications Center is now accepting applications for Part Time Dispatchers. The application form can be found at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/dpt/personnel/application.pdf  or can be picked up at the Genesee County Personnel Office. All applications along with supporting documents (copy of valid NYS License back and front, resume, and references) are due by 1200 September 30, 2008. Completed applications should be returned to GENESEE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL, County Bldg 1, 15 Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020

September 20, 2008 - Submitted Webmaster
Stafford Fire Department Open House October 5th 11AM to 2PM. DETAILS.
For more info, Contact Scott M. Kibler  585-259-0079.

September 20, 2008 - Submitted Webmaster
Here are some pictures taken at the Grand Opening of Mercy Flight WNY new home PHOTOS

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Karen Bridge - Mercy Flight WNY
Mercy Flight WNY Grand Opening of the new headquarters in Buffalo NY on Saturday, September 20th. For more details and to RSVP: CLICK HERE

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Karen Bridge - Mercy Flight WNY
Mercy Flight Western New York is holding their annual 31Day Giveaway in October 2008. Each day for 31 days , a ticket will be drawn to win a gun or cash prize, your choice. Mercy Flight Western New York (Mercy Flight WNY has 3 bases = Buffalo, Olean, Batavia and we are all selling these tickets) DETAILS

To purchase tickets, please contact Karen Bridge, Community Events Coordinator for Mercy Flight, Batavia at (585) 356-2926 or kbridge@mercyflight.org or stop by the base in Batavia. Thank you for your support!

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Karen Bridge - Mercy Flight WNY
2nd Annual Vintage Snowmobile and Snow Show, September 14th, 2008 to benefit Mercy Flight WNY. FLYER
For more details, go to www.sledsofstafford.com

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
LeRoy Fire responded to the 1 Car MVA on Labor Day. 2 victims were in critical condition after their car left the roadway of the NYS Thruway and struck a tree. Crews from LeRoy moved one victim to Mercy Flight and another was transported by City of Batavia ALS. Engine 63 and Rescue 66 responded along with 701 and 703. New York State Troopers assisted with freeing the victims and stopping traffic. PHOTOS

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
Here are a few pictures from our recent apparatus safety upgrade. We have added high visibility reflective Chevron Stripes to our fleet. We felt this was important due to the number of highway related calls we have been responding to. It also helps us meet the new NFPA standards, even though they are not required on our existing equipment. PHOTOS

If anyone has questions about Chevron striping upgrades please contact me. I can help you with everything from the design concept through final installation. Josh Pfendler joshpfendler@yahoo.com or phone 585-768-8383. PHOTOS

September 13, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
The Mulga Fire Department located in rural Alabama is looking for donated equipment to use. They are down one truck permanently and rely on other agencies help when the only working vehicle they have goes out of service. If you can help them, contact Dep. Chief Jamie Pugh at 205-306-6341. or email him at deputychief76@yahoo.com

September 11, 2008 - Photos & story submitted by Jay Lynch
On a very foggy Saturday morning, Fire Departments from Genesee, Livingston and Wyoming County's got together for a live fire training exercises. The Pavilion Fire Department hosted the controlled burn at
7502 York Rd in the Town of Pavilion. The old home has been used for training prior to the Saturday morning drill. Departments participating were Pavilion, York, Mount Morris, Avon, Caledonia, Bethany, Town of Batavia, Leicester, Cuylerville, Perry, Perry Center, Castile, Le Roy, Stafford and Wyoming. PHOTOS

September 09, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yeager - GM1
There are several corrections to the new Emergency Response Guidebook 2008. DETAILS

August 26, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
Calling Hours for Jennifer Howell (Jenny Snow) will be on Thursday, August 28 from 12-2 and 4-6 with a firefighters memorial at 6PM at the Eaton-Watson Funeral Home on North Main Street in Perry.

August 24, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
Firemans night at Batavia Downs DETAILS

August 15, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
Bergen and LeRoy responded mutual response to 490 west bound on 8/15/08 for the MVA with 7 injured. A van collided with a small car stopped on the expressway. Ambulances from LeRoy, Bergen, Byron, Brockport and City of Batavia transported the multiple victims. The Genesee County Sheriff Department were on scene investigating. PHOTOS

August 15, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
On Aug. 11th, LeRoy FD responded Mutual Aid to Stafford for the Serious MVA. 3 Mercy flight helicopters transported patients from the 2 car MVA. LeRoy Engine 63 assisted with Landing Zones and traffic control. 702 and 703 also responded. PHOTO

August 11, 2008 - Submitted by Genesee County EMO
EMT Original & Refresher being offered starting September 9th at the Fire Training Center. DETAILS

August 09, 2008 - Submitted by Randy McIntire - 1st Asst. Chief
The Town of Batavia Fire Department conducted low angle rescue training in the area of the sand wash on Monday (August 4, 2008). Fire fighters reviewed knots, anchors, rigging, descending and ascending carrying a victim (Rescue Randy) secured in a stokes basket. Deputy Chief Paul Barrett and 2nd Asst. Chief Dan Coffey conducted the training. PHOTOS

August 07, 2008 - Submitted by Brenda Swiatowy
The Pembroke Fire Company will be hosting an event to kick off Fire Prevention Week.
We will be having a Health fair, Chinese Auction, Child Seat Safety Check/Child Id’s and more Saturday, October 4, 2008 10:00am – 4:00pm Located at 630 Main Road Corfu, NY 14036

For more information, please email webmaster@pembrokefireco.com

Don’t forget to check out our website at www.pembrokefireco.com

If your company is interested in donating a basket for the Chinese auction, please contact us at 585-599-3521 or email webmaster@pembrokefireco.com .

July 30, 2008 - Submitted by Jay Lynch
On Monday July 21 The Pavilion Fire Department conducted Ventilation Training on an old house at 7502 York Rd in the Town of Pavilion. The Department has used the house on other occasions for training an is planning on a live burn in September. PHOTOS

July 27, 2008 - Submitted by Jeff Whitcombe
On Saturday July 11, 2008 at 0052 the City of Batavia Fire Department was dispatched to smoke in the area of Central Avenue and Liberty Street. The first due crews on Engine 12 and Ladder 15 found that Christina's Restaurant was on fire with heavy fire through the roof on side 3 (rear) and spreading to adjacent structures. A general alarm was sounded which brought all off duty City of Batavia firefighters to the scene and Ladder 25 was also requested from the Town of Batavia Fire Department. A aggressive interior attack was initiated by the on duty firefighters. While the remaining crew from Ladder 15 and incoming firefighters extinguished the exposures and kept them protected while interior operations continued. The fire was deep seeded and the interior crews made some headway but building conditions deteriorated and all interior firefighters were told to evacuate by City Command and the operations went to defensive mode. Additional Engines were requested from Alexander, Stafford and the Town of Batavia. Also, Rescue Trucks from Oakfield and the Town of Batavia were sent to the scene. A stand by of an Engine from East Pembroke was requested to City Fire Headquarters. The fire was contained to the area of origin and no injuries were reported. We would like to thank Jack Taylor for providing us with the pictures and all mutual aid companies. PHOTOS

July 24, 2008 - Submitted by Karen Bridge
"First Pitch Fly In" Benefit for Mercy Flight WNY on Monday, August 4th, 2008 7:05 PM: Batavia Muckdogs vs Williamsport Crosscutters. Enter for a chance to FLY IN to the game aboard the Mercy Flight helicopter, land on the baseball field, and throw out the FIRST PITCH of the game!! Tickets can be purchased at Dwyer Stadium, the Mercy Flight Batavia base. DETAILS

July 22, 2008 - Submitted by Lt. Nathan Fix
The Town Of Batavia Fire Department's 9th Annual Harley Davidson Raffle is this Saturday July 26th 2008. Free admission and open to the public you do not have to purchase a Harley raffle ticket. There will be food and beverages available for purchase along with free live entertainment by 7th heaven. Doors open at 7:00 PM Tickets are still available for purchase on the 2008 Harley Davidson Fatboy. for tickets feel free to call Lt. Nate Fix at 716-870-6431 or the TBFD Fire Hall at 585-344-3284 ex.12 We hope to see you Saturday.

July 21, 2008 - Submitted by Jeanette Deihl
Tops Safety Day July 26, 2008 from 10AM to 2PM. DETAILS

July 21, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yeager
Scott has issued the following product update to all owners of Scott SCBA equipped with heads-up display. Click here for a technical bulletin and claim form.

July 20, 2008 - Photos Submitted by Joshua Pfendler
A bunch of updates have been added. New Photos in Gallery, News Items added and new Apparatus Page. Thanks to those who told me the page was down yesterday. It's nice to know you guys are looking at it. Enjoy the updates.... Josh

July 17, 2008 - Photos Submitted by Dan Rieks
Here are some pictures submitted from the Christina's Restaurant fire. PHOTOS 
Sorry, I do not have details other than this link. BATAVIAN

July 15, 2008 - Submitted by Karen Bridge
'Mercy Flight Western New York would like to thank the Genesee County Emergency Management Office, Tim Yaeger, Jeff Ammon, Jeremy Hunt, Kevin Finucane, Chad Freeman, Chad Higgins, Brian McMartin, Don R. Roblee, Brian Russell, Douglas VanSlyke, Donna VanSlyke, Chad Williams, the Batavia Country Club, and everyone who helped and participated in the Second Annual Genesee County Volunteer Fireman's Golf Outing on Saturday, June 14th, 2008. Your support and generosity are very much appreciated and contributes to our ability to serve in Batavia and the surrounding communities. Thank you! PHOTOS

To the gentleman who won the Mercy Flight raffle items, please contact Karen at (585) 356-2926.

June 29, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
Mercy Flight Western New York is holding their annual 31Day Giveaway this coming October 2008. Each day for 31 days , a ticket will be drawn to win a gun or cash prize, your choice. Mercy Flight Western New York (Mercy Flight WNY has 3 bases = Buffalo, Olean, Batavia and we are all selling these tickets) DETAILS

To purchase tickets, please contact Karen Bridge, Community Events Coordinator for Mercy Flight, Batavia at (585) 356-2926 or kbridge@mercyflight.org or stop by the base in Batavia. Thank you for your support!

June 28, 2008 - Submitted by Sean Downing
The Boy Scout's are looking for EMT's to assist them with their day camps scheduled from July 14th to July 18th between the hours of 9AM till 3PM. This year the day camp will be help behind the Stafford Fire hall on Route 5. If you are interested in helping out this year please contact Val Franks at 219-4745 or Sean Downing at 813-2820

June 21, 2008 - Story by Josh Pfendler
Engine 63 was on Ultimate Factories last night. The show was about Pierce factory and must have been filmed last spring.
Thanks to everyone who let me know I missed it. It will be on again. Check our website for dates and times. If anyone can get me a copy you would be my hero. www.leroyfiredistrict.com  ULTIMATE FACTORIES

June 19, 2008 - Story and Photos by Jay M. Lynch
On Monday June 16th the Oakfield Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a barn fire at 6824 Lewiston Rd in the Town of Oakfield. First arriving fire units encountered a working barn fire and requested assistance from Town and City of Batavia, Elba, Alabama, East Pembroke, Indian Falls, Alexander, East Shelby and Barre. PHOTOS

June 16, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
Here are some pictures of the Stafford Parade prior to the heavy rains. PHOTOS

June 04, 2008 - Submitted by Bill Boyd
The Avon Ambulance is accepting resumes from qualified individuals for the position of Per Diem Paramedic. DETAILS

May 30, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
A house fire in Batavia has claimed the life of a 17 year old. My deepest sympathies to the family.  BATAVIAN  13WHAM  RNEWS  D&C

May 27, 2008 - Submitted by Garrett Dean
2nd Annual Explorer weekend to be held July 26th and 27th. Any one interested in attending please call Garrett Dean at 585-727-4824. DETAILS

May 20, 2008 - Submitted by Jay M. Lynch
At approximately 04:30 on Monday May 19th. Byron and South Byron firefighters were dispatched to a report of a working structure fire at 6964 Townline Rd in the Town of Byron. First arriving fire units encountered a heavily involved, two stories, four unit apartment house with people trapped. An aggressive attack was conducted but sadly the occupants of apartment 2 were unable to get out. Assisting Byron and South Byron at the scene or on standby were, Bergen, Elba, Town and City of Batavia, Le Roy, Churchville, Oakfield, Stafford, Pavilion, Clarendon, Albion, Barre, Genesee County Sheriff Department and Genesee County Emergency Management. PHOTOS

May 19, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
A fire in Byron has claimed the lives of four family members early this morning.   13WHAM  RNEWS  D&C 

May 12, 2008 - Submitted by Sean Downing
On Wednesday May 13 at 2:30 AM the Oakfield Fire Department was dispatched to an MVA where a car had struck some logs. It appears that the driver, while on his way home from work, bent down to pick up a coffee cup he dropped. When the driver looked back up he saw something in his path swerving to miss the object he went off the road and struck a pile of logs in front of a home at 3716 Drake Street Road. The driver was uninjured and taken home by the fire department. PHOTO

May 12, 2008 - Submitted by Bethany Fire Dept.
The Bethany Volunteer Fire Department is Celebrating National EMS Week with our "Safe Summer Campaign" this will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2008. We will be having a Chicken Bar B Q from 1-5 p.m. Free Car Seat Inspections by the NY State Troopers and the GC Sheriff's Departments. Mercy Flight Chopper will be available. Free Blood Pressure Checks. BLS 33 and Rescue 19 will be on Display with Live Demonstrations. Kids activities Bounce House and More. Bring your children to meet the people who will respond to your residence in the event of an emergency. There will be raffle items and other events to be added for the day.

May 12, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yaeger
EMS Appreciation Day will be held Thursday May 22nd at UMMC. DETAILS

May 04, 2008 - Submitted by Bill Boyd ( www.lafireline.net )
It is with deep regret and sympathy to the Harter Family and all the member of the Fire Department Community in Livingston County that we announce the passing of David Harter.  The following information is provided by Wayne Stanley, Fire Chief, Dansville, NY: DETAILS

May 01, 2008 - Submitted by Gary Bowes - Dep. Chief Livonia FD
Fundraiser Dinner for Captain Dan Miller and Family DETAILS

May 01, 2008 - Submitted by Stephanie Call - SFD
Stafford Fire Department will be having their annual Mothers Day Chicken BBQ May 11th DETAILS

April 30, 2008 - Submitted by Jay Lynch
On Sunday, April 27th, The Pavilion Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 627 Route 19 in Pearl Creek, Wyoming County. A working fire was declared and assistance was requested from Wyoming, Perry, Perry Center, Alexander, Bethany, Stafford, Le Roy, Leicester, York and a FAST team from The City of Batavia. PHOTOS

April 30, 2008 - Submitted by Jay Lynch
On Sunday, April 27th, The Corfu Fire Department conducted a live fire training exercise in an old equipment shed at 9049 Alleghany Rd in the Town of Pembroke. The Shed was used for multiple training evolutions. Setting up a Master Stream, Hand line placements, Fire attack and backing up the hose teams were some of the scenarios practiced prior to the burning. Genesee County Emergency Management was on scene and provided a fire instructor to assist with the training session throughout the morning. Departments participating in the drill were Corfu, Darien, East Pembroke, Indian Falls, Pembroke and Genesee County Emergency Management. PHOTOS

April 20, 2008 - Submitted by Blaine Young
A benefit event is planned at Barker Fire Hall (Niagara County) Saturday May 10 4PM to-11PM to
benefit the Hausler-Monagan families who tragically lost 4 family members in the January 17, 2008
fire In Ridgeway. There is a Cruise In, Sock Hop, Chinese Auction Cost is $6. You get a BBQ sandwich,
pop, and a side. Served 5pm to 7pm. Cash bar, 50/50 split. DETAILS
Manpower is also needed for this event. Fire Police, People to park cars, Food servers.

April 19, 2008 - Submitted by 1st Asst. Chief Randy McIntire TBFD  MORE PICS ADDED
On Saturday, April 19, 2008, United Memorial Medical Center conducted a MCI drill involving a chemical exposure to approximately 40 individuals. The mock incident occurred in the parking lot at the Town of Batavia Fire Department on Lewiston Road in Batavia. The scenario was that a crop duster had accidentally released a chemical onto a crowd below and decontamination was required before transportation to United Memorial Medical Center for additional decon and treatment. Town of Batavia FD Engine-21 Responded with a crew of four. Chief Robert Hunt responded and assumed command. 1st Assistant Chief Randy McIntire assumed operations. After initial size-up Chief Hunt requested additional ambulances, as well as initiation of the MCI protocol. Genesee County ESU was called to initiate decontamination of the victims as two of their unit members and two of the TBFD E-21 crew completed decon triage and assisted victims to the decontamination station. City of Batavia Medics served in the EMS command and operations function and were assisted by Byron Ambulance, Oakfield Ambulance, Alexander Ambulance as well as a bus from UMMC. Unified Command also included GM-1 Timothy Yaeger, Keith Hunt and Jerry Diskin from Genesee County Emergency Management.
Thanks to all who participated, especially those volunteers from scout troops and the general public who acted as victims. PHOTOS

April 19, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
As I mentioned at the Chiefs Advisory Meeting, if your department has a function going on such as CARNIVALS, PARADES, RAFFLES, BARBEQUES, OTHER FUNDRAISERS, please email the dates so I can get them on the calendar. THIS CAN ONLY HELP YOU!

April 18, 2008 - Submitted by Bob Brown III - Carlton FD
Carlton Ambulance for sale. DETAILS

April 14, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
The following new forms have been provided by EMO and added to the forms page.
Live Fire Checklist, Live Fire Responsibilities List and Volunteer Fireman Injury-Illness Report.
NOTE: These are in PDF format so Adobe Acrobat Reader is needed to open, view or print it. A link for Adobe is available on the DOWNLOADS Page.

April 10, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
The Erie County Fire Wire is back online. ECFW

April 09, 2008 - Submitted by 1st Assistant Chief Randy McIntire
On Monday, April 7, 2008, the Town of Batavia Fire Department conducted drafting training at the Genesee County Fire Training Center. The town was joined by members of the Byron Fire Department. 2nd Assistant Chief Dan Coffey conducted the training which included drafting using grass and brush truck - Grass 23. Firefighters were instructed on the finer points of drafting set up as well as basic Engine operation using TBFD's Engine 21 as well as Byron's engine. PHOTOS

March 29, 2008 - Submitted by Scott Kibler
On 3/29/2008, The Stafford Fire Dept. conducted a live controlled burn on a 2 story farm house on the Buckley road. From the time of ignition to the walls coming down was 41 minutes. Thank you South Bryon and Bethany for all their help with the drill. PHOTOS

March 29, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yaeger  UPDATED
Genesee County Golf Outing to be held June 14th to benefit Mercy Flight.
DETAILS    POTENTIAL DONOR LETTER    DONOR LETTER

March 29, 2008 - Submitted by Tim Yaeger
New York State Outreach Program 2008 DETAILS

March 26, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
Calling hours for Medina FF BRIAN T. KWIATKOWSKI are as follows:

SUNDAY March 30th,  3PM to 5PM and 7PM to 9PM (St. Mary's Church, 211 Eagle Street, Medina)
MONDAY March 31st, 9AM to 10:30AM (St. Mary's Church, 211 Eagle Street, Medina)

Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 211 Eagle Street in Medina. Due to weather conditions, a Firefighter procession will not take place. PLEASE make every effort to car pool and not bring Fire Apparatus to the service as parking is limited.

NOTE: If your agency plans to attend, please have 1 representative contact Medina Fire at (585) 798-1661 for further details.

March 26, 2008 - Submitted by Jeffrey Elsenheimer - Medina Fire Dept.
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of seventeen-year veteran Firefighter Brian T. Kwiatkowski, which occurred on Tuesday, March 25, 2008.

Firefighter Kwiatkowski joined the Medina Fire Department as a callman firefighter exactly twenty-three years ago, on March 25, 1985. Kwiatkowski was hired as a career firefighter on September 2, 1990. At the time of his death, Brian was serving as IAFF Local 2161 Union President.

It is truly a sad day for the family of Brian and the members of the Medina Fire Department. Please join us in keeping the family, friends, and brother firefighters of Brian in your thoughts and prayers.

Funeral details are pending at this time. Information regarding funeral arrangements will be provided as soon as they are made available to us. MEMORIAL PHOTOS

March 26, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
I apologize for the recent downtime of the FireWire, I have been told the hosting server that this domain and many others reside on was recently moved and had some issues. This was a planned outage and was out of my control as these servers do not reside here. Most of the issues have been resolved up to this point. If you sent me something and it is not posted, I may not have received it, so please resend it. Thanks again for your patience. Ralf.

March 21, 2008 - Submitted by Garrett Dean - Bergen FD
Bergen Fire Explorers are having there 2nd annual Explorer weekend July 26th and 27th. Everyone that attended last year had a great time and we are hoping to have more posts attend this year to see how much fun it is. Any interested Explorer Posts, give Garret Dean a call at 585-727-4824

March 18, 2008 - Submitted by Jeanette Diehl of GC EMO
NOTICE: Registration for the Firefighter 1 Class has been closed.

March 10, 2008 - Submitted by Malcolm Jarvis, Parade Chairman
The Dansville Fire Dept. will be holding its annual parade on May 17th at 5pm if anyone would like to attend please send Dept. name, trucks coming and name of Chief to redcoat@frontiernet.net or call (585) 335-5303,

March 8, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
 REMINDER:  Sunday March 9th, DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME begins. At 2:00 AM, clocks are set ahead 1 hour.
MORE ON DST

March 7, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
WINTER STORM WARNING FOR ALL OF WESTERN NEW YORK FROM 4PM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH 8AM SUNDAY MORNING

FRIDAY NITE:  Cloudy with steady snow showers. Chance of snow mixing with sleet by morning. 2-4" possible.
SATURDAY: Chance for snow showers increase through the evening. Areas to the south east may see a mix of snow and sleet. accumulations of 3-5" are possible. Winds will pick up through the day and blowing and drifting snow could become an issue.
SATURDAY: Mostly cloudy with occasional snow showers which will be accompanied by winds and drifting snow. Lake effect snow possible through the day.

March 4, 2008 - Written by Tom Wood - 703, Submitted by Josh Pfendler - 708
On March 1st, LeRoy Fire responded to a reported one car MVA on Vallance Road. Three Chief 's and Engine 63 responded with one ambulance from LVA. The vehicle snapped an 8 foot section of the telephone pole clean off. It then came to rest after hitting some farm equipment. The victim did not need medical attention.

March 3, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler - 708  UPDATED
On March 1st, LeRoy fire responded with Engine 63 to the call of an electrical fire and electrical problem on Gilbert Street. 701 and 703 found a damaged service line outside house. Units requested National Grid and power was disconnected. PHOTOS

March 3, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler -708  UPDATED
On March 3rd, LeRoy was dispatched to a Charter Bus on fire on the NYS Thruway shortly after 1 am. 701 reported a fully involved bus fire in the Henrietta Fire District. 63, 62 responded to the scene. Crews from 63 assisted Henrietta fire with extinguishment and additional water supply. Crews assisted passengers until another bus could arrive. LeRoy Ambulance also responded. RNEWS PHOTOS

March 3, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler - 708
On February 24th, LeRoy Fire along with LeRoy Ambulance responded to the early morning report of a one vehicle rollover on East Bethany-LeRoy Rd. The car rolled several times and the driver was ejected. The victim was immediately transported to Strong Hospital in critical condition. 701, Engine 63 and Rescue 66 responded. Fire police and Auxiliary also assisted at the scene.

March 1, 2008 - Submitted by Scott Kibler
On March 1, 2008 Congressman Tom Reynolds presented a $41686.00 grant check to the Stafford Fire Department for the purchase of new personal protective gear, Including helmets, boots and turndown gear, shown here Is Congressman Reynolds handing the check to Chief Brian Pocock with some of the firefighters who received the new gear. PHOTOS

March 1, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
The Avon Fire Department is hosting their Annual Spring Power Tool and Gun Raffle on April 5th to raise money for new uniforms. If you know anyone interested, please pass this on. DETAILS

February 25, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
**Winter Storm Watch in Effect for All of WNY Tuesday Morning Through Wednesday Morning** Periods of snow, becoming steady at times. A possible mix of sleet and rain south across the Southern Tier. Snow accumulation will be variable due to potential mix of sleet and rain south. A general 2-4" is possible by late evening. Becoming breezy late.

February 21, 2008 - Submitted by Thomas Wood - LeRoy 703
Le Roy Fire Dept is hosting a CRP/AED training March 10, 2008.
Training will be conducted at the Le Roy Ambulance Base at 1830hrs.
Anyone interested contact LeRoy 704 at tcarroll@leroyfiredistrict.com or LeRoy 703 twood@leroyfiredistrict.com

Le Roy Fire Dept is hosting a Haz-Mat refresher training April 14, 2008
Training will be conducted at the Le Roy Fire Dept at 1830hrs
Anyone interested contact LeRoy 704 at tcarroll@leroyfiredistrict.com or LeRoy 703 twood@leroyfiredistrict.com

February 21, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
On February 20th, the LeRoy Fire Department responded to a basement fire at 8 Hilltop Drive in the Village around 3:30pm. 703 arrived on scene, confirmed the working fire and established incident command. First due Engine 63 crews reported fire coming through the floor vents into the first floor. Crews advanced 2 lines into the basement and extinguished the fire. Ladder 65, Engine 62 and Rescue 66 responded. LeRoy Fire Police assisted with traffic control. Pavilion, Bergen and Caledonia assisted with Mutual aid. Genesee County Coordinators also were requested. The cause of the fire is being investigated. PHOTOS

February 12, 2008 - Submitted by Josh Pfendler
The Le Roy Fire Dept. responded to a serious personal injury motor vehicle accident on Feb. 10, 2008. The accident occurred on Route 19 just north of the Village of LeRoy during whiteout conditions. Units responding were Engine 63, Rescue 66 and a Brush 68 along with two ambulances from LVA and two from the City of Batavia. It took approximately 35 minutes to free the most serious injured victim during extremely cold temperatures. Crews utilized a telephone pole and the bumper of the Fire Engine to assist with separating the vehicle from the victim. During the extrication one firefighter was injured and transported to the hospital for an arm injury and another firefighter was treated at the scene for possible frost bite. Caledonia Fire filled-in at the LeRoy fire station with one Engine and one Ambulance. LeRoy Auxiliary and Fire Police assisted at the scene. PHOTOS

February 12, 2008 - Submitted by Jay Lynch
On Saturday February 9th at 04:47 the Perry and Perry Center Fire Department were dispatched to a reported structure fire at 6670 La Grange Rd in the town of Covington. Arriving fire units declared a working Barn fire and requested a 2nd alarm bringing fire equipment from Wyoming, Livingston and Genesee County's to the scene. Fire fighting efforts were hampered by very icy conditions on the fire ground as well as Wyoming County fire dispatch center experiencing radio problems at the time of the fire. Departments assisting Perry and Perry Center at the scene or on Standby were Warsaw, Wyoming, Castile, Leicester, Cuylerville, York, Mount Morris and Pavilion. PHOTOS

February 06, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
**Winter Weather Advisory in Effect For Monroe, Orleans, Wayne and Genesee Counties Through 6AM Thursday**, **Flood Watch in Effect For All of WNY Through This Afternoon** Mix of rain, freezing rain and sleet changing to snow north of the thruway. 2-4" of snow possible north of route 104, 1-3" possible between route 104 and the thruway. Rain south of the thruway changing to freezing rain and sleet this afternoon.

February 02, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster - Source : 13WHAM

January 28, 2008 - Submitted by Darien Fire CO.
Darien Fire Company Daytona 500 Raffle on Feb 17 DETAILS

January 28, 2008 - Submitted by Robert Poeller - 1st Asst. Chief
Millgrove Fire Department is selling their Chief's vehicle. DETAILS

January 28, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
I received new forms from Tim Yaeger today and have posted them on the FORMS page. Also added is the 2008 Radio Pricing Sheet. FORMS

January 14, 2008 - Submitted by 2nd Asst. Chief Dan Coffey
At 1020 hours the Town of Batavia Fire Dept was dispatched to a mobile home fire at 10 Overlook Dr. in Country Meadows. Deputy Chief Paul Barrett was first on location and confirmed smoke showing from a side two window. Engine 18 arrived on location and established a water supply. The interior crew made entry at the front of the mobile home and located a mattress fire in a bedroom. The fire was quickly extinguished and damage was confined to the single room. Chief Bob Hunt had command and Deputy Chief Paul Barrett had Operations. Thanks to Elba and East Pembroke for their assistance.

January 12, 2008 - Submitted by John Totter
Here is some information and pictures of a rescue truck that the Gates Fire District currently has for sale.
DETAILS

January 05, 2008 - Submitted by Mike Robb
Here is some Firefighter L.O.D.D. stats for the year 2007 DETAILS

January 05, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster
I have spent a generous portion of today migrating all web content and emails from the older PC (slower and almost full) to a new PC (faster and more capacity). If you notice anything different or abnormal on the webs, please let me know. Thanks, Ralf

January 01, 2008 - Submitted by Webmaster - Source (WHAM13)
** Winter Storm Warning In Effect For Monroe, Orleans, Genesee, Wayne, Ontario and Livingston Counties **
(Rochester, N.Y.) - A major winter storm is expected to hit the Rochester and Buffalo area on New Year’s Day.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Monroe, Orleans, Genesee, Wayne, Ontario, and Livingston Counties from 4 p.m. Tuesday through 7 p.m. Wednesday.
There will be occasional snow showers throughout Tuesday. Snow will accumulate around 1-2" by late afternoon. But, by evening expect heavy snow, areas of lake enhanced snow, and blowing and drifting snow. New accumulations could be 4"-8". For Wednesday into the evening, lake effect snow with substantial additional accumulation is likely, especially north of the NYS Thruway, about 9 to 12". Those south of the thruway might see 6 to 9".
On Thursday, the temperatures will fall into the teens, but are predicted to go into the 40s or even 50s by next week. As of 12/31, the official snow accumulation for Rochester in December 2007 was 42.5", the third greatest amount of snow for that month and only three inches from the record.