Palm Beach County Fire Rescue News

Commercial Structure Fire in West Boynton

A fire at the Vienna Fliar Hair Styling Salon in Western Boynton the evening of May 6, brought 8 units and some 20 firefighters to a strip shopping center around 9:40 PM. One unit occupied by the Vienna Flair Hair Styling salon had had a small fire which put out a fair amount of smoke that eventually entered a number of adjoining units and caused the evacuation of a small pub that was also in the center. Damage was kept to the unit of origin and the source of the fire is under investigation.

Units on scene included E41, Q47, E46, E42, R41, EMS4, DC4, BC4, PI1 and IV4 (Farill).

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Story and Photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on May 7th , 2008.

House Fire in South Bay

SOUTH BAY - At approximately 7:30am on Tuesday, May 6, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 "A" Shift responded to a reported house fire in the City of South Bay. Crews arrived to find smoke and fire coming from one of the rear bedrooms. Crews were able to confine the fire to the room of origin, but the rest of the house suffered severe smoke damage. The residents were not home during the fire, and the American Red Cross is handling their accomodations. No one was injured during the fire and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73, E73B, E74, R73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and Photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 7th , 2008.

Car Fire in the Glades

BELLE GLADE - At approximately 6:10 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 "C" Shift responded to a reported car fire on Hatton Highway between US Highway 98 and State Road 80 in the rural sugar cane fields east of Belle Glade. The smoke plume could be seen for several miles. Crews arrived to find a Ford Explorer fully engulfed in fire. The crews were able to extinguish the fire quickly after arriving, but the vehicle was a total loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73B, R73, EMS7

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Story and Photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Abandoned Building Fire in Belle Glade

BELLE GLADE - At approximately 8:30 am on May 3, 2008, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 "A" Shift responded to a reported fire in an abandoned building in the southwest section of the City of Belle Glade. Crews arrived to find smoke and fire coming from one of the units on the ground floor. A pile of debris inside of the abandoned apartment was on fire, and was rapidly extinguished by the crews. No one was injured during the fire. The fire is being labeled as "suspicious" and the cause is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E73, E73B, E74, R73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Bryant Sugar Mill Fire

All units from Battalion 7 responded to the Bryant Sugar Mill for a Commercial Structure Fire on Saturday 05/03/2008 at 1809 hrs. The entire sugar mill is currently under demolition and has had several fires there recently. The fires have been started by the sparks of the torches used to dismantle the structure. While enroute, station 72 units reported heavy black smoke from a distance. E72 arrived on scene and reported a 4-story commercial structure with a working fire and 4 stories involved with fire. Since the site is under demolition, all of the hydrants have been turned off and were no longer in service. The engines on scene worked together and were able to shuttle water to supply the attack lines. The fire is fueled by "baggasse" which is fine particles (like saw dust) leftover from the processing of sugar cane into sugar. The structure doesn't have any walkable floors so the fire was extinguished from a defensive mode outside.

Thanks to units E72, R72, T72, E73, E73b, R73, E74, T21, Q29, BC7, EMS7 and the Incident Commander, District Chief Gary Burroughs DC7, an effective and safe fire attack was done without any injuries.

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Story by Rescue Lt. Tony Faso, R72. Photos by EMS-7 Craig Prusansky, Rescue Lt. Tony Faso and others on scene.
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Fire in Brazilian Court Draws Mutual Aid

Three local fire departments came together to work hand-in-hand to extinguish a fire in a mansion in the Town of Palm Beach on May 5th. Just after noon, reports of a fire in the 400 block of Brazilian Court were received by the town's dispatch system. The fire quickly exceeded the capabilities of first-in units and mutual aid was requested. The City of West Palm Beach's Fire Department responded with several units as well as Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. Local police cordoned off the street as a large plume of smoke visible for miles attracted onlookers from all over.

Within a couple of hours, firefighters from the three agencies were able to bring the fire under control but not before the house was rendered a total loss. One dog was saved from the burning house but news reports say that several others were lost. News reports put the loss at over 5-million dollars.

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Story and photos by Mark Carr
Posted on May 6th , 2008.

Fire at Elbridge Gale Elementary School

On Friday, April 25, units responded to Elbridge Gale Elementary School for a reported fire in the kitchen. Upon arrival they found a fire in one of the kitchen's stoves along with a sprinkler activation. The fire was quickly brought under control.

Units on scene included: E25, Q29, E27, E20, R25, DC2, EMS2, and BC2.

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Story and photos by Lt. Shaw
Posted on April 28th , 2008.

Stations 31, 47 C-Shift to the Rescue

The local United Cerebral Palsey Foundation office called Fire Rescue with a request: They were located in a building on 2nd Avenue North in station 31's area. They had a flagpole that was inoperative and asked our assistance in putting it back into operation. Some 50 individuals with cerebral palsey visit the center daily and wanted to see a flag flying outside their center.

Lt. Drew Kirshner and his station 31 crew, along with Lt. Pete McGrane and his crew from station 47, showed up Wednesday evening, April 23rd, with a plan of attack. By 8 PM, not only did they have the pole in operation with flags flying, but were able to do some Stokes basket rescue training off the roof of the building (much to the delight of the 20+ individuals who stayed and watched.) Needless to say, the Foundation was ecstatic. Compliments to 31 and 47 C-Shift.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 24th , 2008.

Car Fire in Station 24's Area

Station 24 responded to a vehicle fire on April 11th, 2008 just before noon. A Volvo 960's engine compartment was fully involved, the fire was impinging on the Ford Explorer that was parked next to it. As the action photos taken by a bystander show, R24 and E24's crews initiated a fast, aggressive attack and "choked the red devil into submission" with ease.

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Story by Lt. L. Doelling
Posted on April 22nd , 2008.

Head-on Crash on SR 441

Fire Rescue units were dispatched to a reported traffic accident Friday evening, April 11th, at 11:07 PM. When they arrived they found a two vehicle head-on crash on US 441 just South of Boynton Beach Bl. Witnesses stated a vehicle was traveling South in the North bound lane just prior to the accident. One victim was pinned and the Special Operations crew along with others had to cut the vehicle apart to free the victim's legs. In all, three patients were sent to the Delray trauma center, two by ground and one by air.

Units on scene included R47, Q47, EMS4, DC4, E41, R41, EMS3, Splops, TH1, E48, E34, DC9 and PI1.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 14th , 2008.

House Fire in Madison Green

Around 9:45 am, dispatch received a 911 call from a homeowner at 1261 Gembrook Ct in Wyndham at Madison Green who reported smoke in her home. Arriving units began investigating and eventually found an active fire in an upstairs bedroom. Crews contained the fire to the room of origin. Damage to the home is expected to exceed $200,000. No one was injured.

Units on scene included E21, Q29, E22, E26, R28, EMS2, DC2, BC8, PI1, CAT2, IV5, LA34, DC10 and E920.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on April 14th , 2008.

Structure Fire on Purdy Lane

On Monday, March 31, fire broke out in an apartment at 500 Village Green Circle 2, Bldg A. The 12:48 fire brought units from Palm Springs and Palm Beach County and included the mutual aid response of a ladder from West Palm Fire. A number of units had smoke in them on the third floor and the building had to be evacuated. Palm Springs Fire and the State Fire Marshall's office are investigating the cause.

Units on scene included E39, Q29, E33, E36, R36, DC3, EMS10, DC39, L5 and AT13.

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Story by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO and photos by Roger Brand
Posted on April 2nd , 2008.

Fuel Truck vs Tug with Luggage Cart

At 12:09 on April 1st, 2008, the crew of "B" Shift under the command of Captain Abramovitz responded to a Signal 4 involving a fuel truck carrying 5400 gallons of Jet A fuel. The fuel truck had collided with a tug and baggage cart on the airline ramp in front of gate C7. The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported via BLS Ambulance to the hospital for evaluation.
No other injuries were reported.

A minor fuel spill of gasoline from a ruptured fuel tank and fuel line on the tug was caused by the fuel truck running over the rear of the tug.

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Stories and photos by John Boike
Posted on April 1st , 2008.

Busy Week in the Glades

It was another busy week out west. Here is some information about three of the calls units responded to:

On Sunday, March 23rd, units responded to a single vehicle accident. While learning how to drive, the driver lost control and crashed through a fence and hit a tree. Occupants were trapped by the fence and poles wrapped around the vehicle. E73 and R73 personel cut fence and post to gain access to the two patients in the vehicle.

On March 26th, BC7, BC9, DC7, DC9, E73, E73B, R73, R73B, SPECIAL OPS 34, E34, R34 AND Trauma Hawk responded to a vehicle accident involving a dump truck on SR 80 AND SR 98. First-arriving units found vehicle with heavy damage and entrapment. Units worked for about 40 minutes to free the victim, who was transported by Trauma Hawk to nearest trauma facility. Great job done by all. (For more photos of this event, please click here.

On Saturday, March 29th, BC4, DC7, E74, E73, E73B, R73, R73B, Q29, Light & Air 24 and Investigator 4 responded to a residential structure fire in South Bay, units arrive to find heavy smoke coming from the residence. Heavy fire was found in master bedroom and attic in a large portion of the residence. Two occupants were treated and transported to a nearby hospital.

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Stories and photos from Scott Berkowitz
Posted on March 31st , 2008.

Dump Truck vs. Van

On Wednesday, March 26th, 2008, at approximately 13:00 hours, units of Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Battalion 7 were dispatched to a signal 4 at State Road 80 and U.S. Highway 98. Initial reports advised a dump truck and a mini-van collided at the location. Reports from PBSO at the scene reporting heavy entrapment facilitated dispatch to send Trauma Hawk along with a full Special Operations response.

Units operated for over an hour to remove the female driver utilizing dash roll and roof removal techniques. The driver was airlifted to St. Mary's Hospital and a female passenger was taken to Palms West Hospital. The driver of the dump truck was not injured.

Units on scene were E73, E73B, R73, R73B, EMS7 DC7, E34, R34, SO34, DC9 and Batt7

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Story and photos by Artie Werkle
Posted on March 27th , 2008.

PBCFR Pipes and Drums Fund Raising Events for Vazquez Family

On St. Patrick's Day, members of Palm Beach County Firefighter's Pipes and Drums took part in a fund-raising effort for Lieutenant Rafael Vazquez's family. Several Irish establishments around Mizner Park, Boca Raton, and one in Boynton Beach were gracious enough to allow the band to play and collect donations towards the fund. At one point in the evening, Michelle Vazquez and her children joined the Pipes and Drums in Boca and actually played with the band by banging on the bass drum; they did an excellent job keeping the beat!!

Donations towards the fund are still being accepted. Checks can be made out to the Firefighters Benevolent and write the name "Vazquez" in the memo section at the bottom left of the check.

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From Captain Doug Watson
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Motorcyclist Severely Injured in Royal Palm Beach Mishap

A mid-morning crash involving only a motorcycle critically injured its operator on March 24th. The crash happened in the southbound lanes of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., just north of Okeechobee Boulevard in Royal Palm Beach. Engine 28 was the initial responding unit and was assisted initially by a passing fire inspector and an off-duty firefighter from Station 42. Battalion 2 Chief Nigel Baker oversaw the activities as the incident commander. Rescue 21 was dispatched to transport the patient, who was not wearing a motorcycle helmet, to the trauma center. TraumaHawk Air Ambulance could not respond due to fog.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Station 28 Provides Easter Fun for Local Orphanage

Children in orphanages are often forgotten when it comes to the fun associated with various holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Crews at Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 28 in Royal Palm Beach saw to it that that wasn't the case for the children of Kid's Sanctuary Orphanage. The brainchild of Rescue Lieutenant Mike DelRossi, an Easter egg hunt and games were hosted by the crews of Rescue 28, Engine 28 and District Chief 2.

Using candy-filled eggs donated by nearby First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach, crews, along with Lt. DelRossi's family, hid the eggs throughout the many rooms of the home. After the egg hunt, despite a light rain, crews and kids alike moved outside for some games including a relay race involving carrying an egg on a spoon, and a water balloon toss. The balloon toss was a hit as both firefighters and kids got soaked by bursting balloons.

Lt. DelRossi took it upon himself to purchase prizes for the kids using contributions from each of the crew members. All in all, everyone had a great time � including the big kids of Station 28's B-shift.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

2 Injured as Car Collides with Fuel Tanker

Two people received minor injuries on March 24th after their small car came into unplanned contact with a tractor-trailer hauling 8,000 gallons of fuel. The location of the incident was Belvedere Road just east of State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach. Quint 29 and Rescue 29 responded from their station nearby and Rescue 23 responded from training in the area. There was no fuel leak or fire as a result of the accident. Both occupants of the car were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. The truck driver was not injured.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark V. Carr
Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade

On March 14, 2008, of the dept.'s Pipes and Drums marched in the 184th edition of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade in Savannah, Georgia. This is the 2nd biggest parade behind New York City. The members marched with our friends from Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums from Long Island, New York. It was a 3-mile long parade with over 200,000 merrymakers watching from the sidleines. It was a great time...Members of the band that attended were Capt. Doug Watson, Lt. John Fischer, D/O Jon Ferguson and FF Khristy Osment.
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Posted on March 25th , 2008.

Boca Woods Hosts Firefighter Appreciation Dinner

On March 6th, personnel from Battalion 5 attended a community gathering in their honor held at the Boca Woods Country Club in western Boca Raton. The idea for this event was borne from members of a committee that was created to show appreciation for the local fire station (51) who routinely runs calls to this community.

The idea for this event was conceptualized months ago as the group called "Friends of Fire Station #51" brain-stormed about what else they could do for the station after already having purchased a large screen HD LCD TV for the folks. Soon, the idea of having an old-fashioned, community-based fundraiser came to life.

The evening started out with some opening remarks by our gracious hosts, followed by remarks from Chief Hernandez, who shared the events of the tragedy of Monday involving Lt. Ray Vazquez. A moment of silence was held out of respect for him, his wife and children. The introduction was followed by light-hearted talk about the history of fire-rescue services offered in the western Boca Raton communities over the last 35 or so years and covered the progressive increases in personnel and equipment over that time span.

The evening was a huge success, with a grateful and pleasant, sold-out crowd. Personnel were wooed and fussed over throughout the night, hors 'douvres, a pre-dinner reception, and then we moved onward to the main room for music, conversation and yet more fellowship with the very gracious sponsors/residents.

A great meal followed with the gracious crowd showing the visiting personnel from the station their most humbling and gracious appreciation for responses to their community.

In attendance were personnel from all 3 shifts at station 51 along with each respective Company Officer, as well as the on duty District Chief Tom Tolbert, EMS Captain Manny Mayo and Battalion Chief Joe Hernandez.

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Story by BC Hernandez, photos by FF/PM Robert Cuenca
Posted on March 12th , 2008.

Crash on US 27 Near Okeelanta

At about 12:30 pm on March 4, 2008, Crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue stations 73 and 74 responded to a crash on US 27 near Okeelanta in western Palm Beach County. The units arrived to find a tractor-trailer and a dump truck involved in a crash in the northbound lanes. The driver of one of the trucks sustained only minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The cause of the crash is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol.

Units on scene: E74, R73, DC7, EMS7.

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusansky
Posted on March 12th , 2008.

Pilot Safe After Belly-Landing at PBIA

Being in the right place, at the right time, allowed me to witness a plane crash as it happened at Palm Beach Int'l Airport (PBIA). While eating lunch and watching airplanes on the south side of the airport on March 5, a Piper PA-24 Comanche airplane flew overhead to my left as it made its short-final approach to runway 31. Noticing that the aircraft's wheels were not down, I picked up my camera and started clicking off the shutter. As the plane continued toward what appeared to be imminent doom at the end of the runway, other pilots nearby could be heard on the aircraft radio alerting others that the plane's wheels were still in the up position. Just after crossing the main runway, runway 27R, the plane touched down, bounced back up and then hit the ground again. In a cloud of smoke and dust, the plane skidded for several hundred feet before skidding sideways to a stop at the edge of the runway.

Within seconds, the fire-rescue radio blared the report of an Alert III, an actual crash, to Battalion 8 Fire-Rescue crews located inside PBIA. Seconds later, the monstrous, yellow, aircraft rescue trucks pulled out of the station and made their way out to the disabled aircraft. At the time of the crash, firefighters were already handling three other calls - medical emergencies - in the airport's terminal yet a full contingent of rescuers was still able to meet the needs of the downed aircraft. On scene, firefighters under the command of Airport Captain Fred Abramovitz were relieved to find that there was no fire, no fuel spill and no injuries sustained in the belly landing. Crews stood by as investigators and airport officials surveyed the scene and interviewed the pilot in order to ascertain the cause of the crash. Runway 31 remained closed until the plane could be towed to a ramp off the airfield.

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Story and photos by Mark Carr
Posted on March 6th , 2008.

Motorcycle Accident at Lantana Rd and Lyons Rd

Around 4:30 pm on February 2, units from Station 46 and 48 responded to a reported motorcycle vs. SUV collision at Lantana Rd and Lyons Rd. Callers also were advising that the motorcycle was on fire. When crews arrived they found a cyclist down with severe injuries and a fully involved motorcycle. The patient was Trauma Alerted to Delray Community Hospital and the cycle fire was quickly extinguished.

Units on the call included: Trauma Hawk, R46, E48, Q47, DC4, EMS 4.

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Story by Captain Don Delucia, PIO; photos by Lt. Millstone
Posted on February 12th , 2008.

Volunteer Battalion Receives New Logo

The Volunteer Battalion now has an officially approved logo thanks to the efforts of Volunteer Lt. Bill Senyshyn. As project manager, he decided to contact The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale and meet with Paul-M. Kane, instructor of Graphic Design and Advertising and creative director for Artemis Design Group. Christine David, Dept. Chair of Advertising and Graphic Design founded Artemis Design Group - a full service advertising and design agency that doubles as a prestigious Honors Program within the Art Institute curriculum.

Three honor students volunteered for this project and were challenged to create a design that was unique, and exciting. Several outstanding logos were submitted to the Battalion. After the logos were submitted, the general membership voted on the design that best suited the organization. Various members of PBC Fire-Rescue were also asked to vote. The results were definitive and a clear winner emerged.

The winning logo was created by Sara Borda Bossana, an honor student. Ms. Bossana was awarded a cash prize and plaque in appreciation for her winning design from the Volunteers. The logo will make its official debut on the apparatus at the end of this month.

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Story by Battalion Chief Kevin Rattey
Posted on February 6th , 2008.

Quint Climbs to the Top with Hot Shots Initiative

Quint 29 B shift under the direction of Lt. Bill Morris were at a training evolution recently at Okeeheelee Park. Apparently while on break they noticed a familiar "on-looker" off in the distance. It was 4-year old little Nicholas visiting the park with his family. Mom decided to take Nick to the park with his two sisters. Lt. Morris decided to take advantage of the Polaroid cams that were placed on the truck early last year since this opportunity was exactly what the Hot Shots Program was designed for.

As a reminder, The Customer Service Team launched an initiative called The Hot Shots Program where Phase I included the delivery of Polaroid cameras to all the Engines. The intent of the program was to wave little Joey over from the Publix parking lot anticipating that he'd like to see the BRT (Big Red Truck). In doing so, a red plastic fire helmet is donned with a smiling child outside the window of one of our engines so that the Polaroid may capture this moment for the family. The snapshot finds its way to the refrigerator door back home and PBCFR gets the credit for brightening up the week for some would-be shopper in the neighborhood.

So the crew grabbed the camera, which was out of film. No problem, since we're at a training event ... they search another engine on-scene for their camera. Out of film again! This is a common problem we have noticed since most crews don't realize that the warehouse catalog number for the film is actually adhered to the bottom of the camera itself with the label maker. Crews should feel free to order additional film packs for their polaroids via the monthly Janitorial/Station Supply ordering process. In fact, we're going to add the item to the quick sheet that's located on the Intranet Filing Cabinet.

So here's what 29 did: they grabbed a personal digital camera from one of the crewmember's gear bags. After taking a ton of pics with the kids in and outside of the truck, they learned that Nicholas wants to someday become a fireman (so he called it) Lt. Morris and crew let young Nicholas assist in raising and taking down the 77' aerial ladder as well as tuck away the outriggers and foot plates. Mom could not have been more pleased! At the end of it all, they wrote down the family e-mail address so that they could send them the pics when they got back to the station. It is this endless pursuit to improve the quality of one's life if not just for one day that Q29 had displayed through their efforts. In this case, possibly the inspiration of one young boy's dream to someday ride one of these PBCFR rigs. Frequent Fire Miles are being dispatched to the following:
LT Bill Morris
DO Aaron Turner
PM Gary Garrett

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Posted on January 30th , 2008.

Belle Glade Car in Canal

At 5:40 pm on January 25th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 responded to the 2200 block of East Canal Street South for a witnessed car into a canal in Belle Glade. Units arrived to find two PBSO deputies and two civilians in the water attempting a rescue. One patient was pulled immediately out of the water, but a second one remained. The second patient was able to be brought to the surface by the crew from E73B and PBSO deputies after a few minutes. The crew from R73B was able to restore a pulse and breathing to the patient before arriving at the hospital. The first patient suffered only minor injuries while the second patient was listed in critical condition. The cause of the crash is under investigation by PBSO.

Units on scene: E73B, R73, R73B, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusansky
Posted on January 29th , 2008.

House Fire in Station 33's Area

On 1/26, at approximately 5:45 PM, a fire was reported on Wilson Rd. E33, E2, E24, Q29, R33, DC9 and EMS3 were dispatched. E33 and R33 were first to arrive with fire showing at the front of the building on the 2nd floor. Three lines were stretched, searches conducted and the fire was brought under control.

E39, R24, LA24, BC3, DC11, EMS 11 also responded.

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Story and photos by Jon Ferguson
Posted on January 28th , 2008.

The "Fun House" Opens Doors to Stranded Out-of-Towner

The crews from Station 55, B Shift are all receiving Frequent Fire Miles for the way they handled a stranded out-of-towner that stopped in for directions. Frequent Fire Miles are issued to crew members that express behaviors that depict FF's "Going the Extra Mile" for our fire rescue customers. On this particular scenario there was a man who drove up to the firehouse to secure directions from the on-duty crew. The man was not from this area and was trying to get back home. The man was down and out, low on cash and almost out of fuel. In addition, the time was getting late into the evening and the man had not gotten anything to eat yet. The crews invited the man into the firehouse for a cup of coffee while they drew him up some maps. The man had an extended trip ahead of him and the crew decided to help him out a bit. Turns out the crew provided him a hot meal, filled up his car with gasoline as well as networked with a local motel in order to get him somewhere safe to spend the night. The crews took up a collection to pay for all of this and they left their phone number in case there was anything else they could do for him. If a loved one of mine ever finds themselves stranded in foreign country, I should only hope they encounter the compassion and hospitality of Station 55's finest.

Frequent Fire Miles are dispatched to the following members (see photo from left to right): Jeff Berry, Justin Schainuck, Mike Meyer, Brian Johnson, Pierre Simbert, Mat Poulin and Tim Waterhouse.

Thanks guys for Leading by Example!

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Posted on January 24th , 2008.

Golf Cart Fire at Donald Trump Golf Course

On January 18, Station 33 C Shift responded to a golf cart fire on the Donald Trump Golf Course. E33 and R33 responded to the 1st hole and established "Trump Command". The crew commandeered "Golf Cart 33" and "Golf Cart 33B" to gain access to the blazing cart, took an extinguisher and knocked down the fire. Photos are attached as proof of their outstanding creative firefighting.

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Story by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO, and photos by DO Gordon Wilson
Posted on January 22nd , 2008.

Church Fire in Belle Glade

On January 15 around 1:13 in the afternoon, an engine from Station 73 was dispatched to a possible trash fire. When they arrived Engine 73 called for a full structure assignment. E-73B, E-74, R73, R73B, EMS-7, DC-7 and BC-7 were all assigned to the fire. First in companies found heavy smoke and fire conditions coming from the rear of The First Haitian Church of Belle Glade. It took crews about 30 minutes to get the fire under control and about 19 firefighters and command staff responded to the incident.

The fire was contained to the offices and living areas. The main congregational area only suffered minor smoke and water damage. A good initial aggressive offensive attack by Lt. Dan Smith and probationary firefighter Hadjarree are what saved this house of worship. The fire is still under investigation and the cause is still unknown at this time.

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Story and photos by Captain Bucek
Posted on January 17th , 2008.

Residential Structure Fire

On Saturday 1/12/08, PBCFR units: BC3, E36, R36, DC10, EMS10, E23, R23, E24, Q29, Palm Springs FR E39, and CAT responded to a residential structure fire at 4682 Summit Blvd in station 33's area. First unit on scene was off-duty firefighter Manriquez, shift 3A, who made sure the apartment had been evacuated and assisted with the occupants. Battalion Chief 3 arrived and established command and Engine 36 initated fire attack. All units worked together and the incident was stablized.

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Story and photos by Driver Operator Gordon Wilson
Posted on January 16th , 2008.

Second US-27 Crash

At 2:27pm on January 13th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to the second of two reported car crashes in the 44000 block of US Highway 27 near Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find the driver out of the pickup truck, but the passenger was still in the truck. The crews removed the passenger from the truck and transported her to a local hospital. The crash is under investigation by PBSO.

Units on scene: E74, R73B, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 15th , 2008.

US-27 Crash

At 7:24am on January 13th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Stations 73 and 74 responded to the first of two reported car crashes in the 44000 block of US Highway 27 near Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find both of the occupants out of the vehicle suffering only minor injuries. The crash is under investigation by PBSO but heavy fog is believed to be a contributing factor.

Units on scene: RP74, E73, DC7, EMS7

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 15th , 2008.

Belle Glade Fire

At approximately 1:45pm on Monday, January 7th, units from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue stations 73 and 74 were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the Palm Glade apartment complex. Crews arrived to find light smoke coming from a second floor apartment. E74 made entry and extinguished the fire, assisted by crews from E73, E73B, and Q73. The damage was confined to the room of origin. The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature, inside of the wall. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Units on scene: E74, E73, E73B, Q73, R73B, DC7, EMS7, IV4.

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 9th , 2008.

Vehicle Accident in Belle Glade

At approximately 3:00pm on January 4th, crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 and AMR Zone 4 responded to a reported car crash in the 38000 block of State Road 80 in Belle Glade. Dispatch advised that they had received numerous reports of an SUV that had rolled several times. Crews arrived to find a single occupant still inside of the vehicle with minor injuries. Fortunately, the driver was wearing a seatbelt which probably prevented more severe injuries. The driver was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.

Units on scene: E73, DC7, EMS7, AMR Medic 42

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Story and photos by Captain Craig Prusanksy
Posted on January 7th , 2008.

Santa Helps Adopted Family in Lake Park

On Christmas Eve day, Station 68 along with numerous Santa helpers, delivered toys to a needy family in the Lake Park area. Don Keltner drove the Union's antique engine with Santa and led the parade of equipment that delivered presents to a family that included six children. All three television stations recorded the event for the evening newscasts.

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Story by Captain Don Delucia, PIO, photos by Don Delucia and CAT Volunteer Ron Radwin
Posted on December 26th , 2007.

Santa Delivered to St. Mary's Children's Hospital

On Friday December 21, PBCFR and the PBC F.O.O.L.S. delivered Santa and numerous toys to the children at the Jack Nicholas Children's Hospital. Nearly 27 young patients received toys and encouragement from Santa who arrived in Local 2928's antique fire engine. This was the fourth annual visit to the facility at St. Mary's Hospital.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on December 26th , 2007.

Mentoring from the Tailboard

We all know by taking the oath to serve our community as PBC firefighters that we are held to standards much higher than those of other members of the public. Our firefighters are striving beyond this standard in seeking new ways to "Go the Extra Mile" for our fire rescue customers. Our elders depend on it as much as our youngest members of the community look up to it. These firefighters are exemplary in their efforts towards "doing the right thing." R/LT Kyle Ventry and Paramedics Liz and Jay Martino are perfect examples of what it means to capture this spirit and compassion.

Apparently Kyle's wife is a school nurse at one of the local schools where they met a young boy living in a most unfortunate family environment. After multiple absences from classes they found out that the young boy was staying home to take care of his foster parent. Despite the young boy being dealt a tough hand in life he was doing what was asked of him. Kyle and his wife took him beneath their wing and started caring for the young boy, including paying for medical and school supplies and even welcoming the boy into their own home. While attempting to find another loving home for the boy to live, he was jumped and robbed after school one day. Items stolen from the boy, his only prize possession ... an iPod which allowed the young boy to escape from the daily challenges he faced. Jay and Liz Martino, who have always been inspired by Kyle's unselfish pursuit of "giving back", decided to purchase a new iPod for the boy and anonymously present it to Kyle. Kyle says the darn thing just showed up one day, but he knows who did it. The Martino's generosity is only matched by their modesty. Together firefighters can really make a difference to the young members of their community if they so choose. Our goal should be ensuring that difference is a positive one. We should all take something from this as we empower ourselves to mentor members within our given response zones. Thank you Kyle, Jay and Liz for representing the spirit of our Department All three will receive Frequent Fire Miles for "Going the Extra Mile" and Mentoring from the Tailboards!

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Posted on December 25th , 2007.

CAT Team Donates for Toys for Tots

As we all know, the dedicated members of the CAT team are volunteers who devote their time and energy supporting and guiding people who have suffered a loss due to fire or death. Their efforts are selfless and often go beyond the call of duty. Their ability to always think of others was recently demonstrated this last week when the CAT members decided to turn their monthly meeting into a toy drive to help support Toys for Tots. Their donations helped fill a box at headquarters. As always, the CAT members have gone beyond their expected duties.

Great job team!!!! Thank you!!!!!

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Story and photos by Alicia Kula
Posted on December 20th , 2007.

Station 42 Hosts Division of Forestry Training

On Thursday, December 20th, the Division of Forestry conducted CVOC training for their personnel at Station #42. Approximately 11 DOF personnel completed the course using Transports and Class 6 engines (brush trucks).

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Story and photos by Battalion Chief Mike Wells
Posted on December 20th , 2007.

Firefighters of the Year

LT Frank Cote and R/LT Richard Christmas named Firefighters of the Year.

The text below was edited and taken from context of the original speech written by Chief Mike Arena to the Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce:

These individuals are both exceptional individuals and they both have a sincere commitment to the City of Belle Glade, to Palm Beach County, the Glades area and the people who live and work here. We are very proud to offer these two individuals as the 2007 Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce firefighters of the year. We would like to recognize them together and then share with you some of the contributions that have made to Fire Rescue and the community.

Over 2 years ago Lt Frank Cote had a mission of bringing about a better way to serve the Glades area specifically when people get injured on Lake Okeechobee. He worked very closely with Chief Steve Rice and they were able to secure a grant for a Rescue Airboat for Belle Glade. Lt Frank Cote spent a tremendous amount of his personal time designing and specifying where every thing needed to be on this airboat.

Frank is one of those people who continue to work until the job is done right and he has been doing a tremendous job working with his new Palm Beach County co-worker R/Lt Richard Christmas on developing the training program for it. R/LT Christmas quickly came on board over a year ago and has become an integral part of the airboat program.

This Rescue airboat is the first of its kind to Palm Beach County and it probably would not have happened if it were not for the efforts of both Lt Frank Cote and R/LT Rick Christmas. The airboat program was recently featured on Channel 5 news and the efforts put forth by both Lt Cote and R/LT Christmas were what made that very positive publicity possible.

The airboat was also featured on the evening news on Channel 12 because these 2 individuals once again came together in rapid fashion to save a drowning dog stuck in a weed invested waterway to assist Animal control personnel and ultimately saving the dog. This was also a highly publicized event which all resulted in very good press for Belle Glade and Fire Rescue.

When Richard Christmas found out that Belle Glade was merging with Palm Beach County he immediately wanted to be part of making sure it was going to work and it was going to work right for Belle Glade. He volunteered to transfer out here and came to work to assist anyway he could.

The airboat is not the only thing which puts the two individuals ahead of the pack so let me give you some other examples.

We recently had a large fire at the Okeelanta sugar mill resulting in many firefighters staying out all night. When it was time to switch out crews around 11pm, Lt Cote volunteered to stay out and work so others could go and get some needed rest. He did not want to take no for an answer since he knew there was a great deal of work to be done and he wanted to see it through.

R/LT Richard Christmas made him self available 24/7 immediately after the merger of Belle Glade Fire Department and Palm Beach County after October 1. He responded out on his personal time each time we had a fire or major car accident and was instrumental to the seamless transition between the two departments.

LT Cote has been an ambassador for the Lake and its assets and took the opportunity to showcase it by taking out various elected officials on tours often utilizing his own personal time. He received a personal thank you and commendation letter from Senator Aaronberg.

On Sunday March 11 at approximately 11pm in the evening we received a call for assistance at the 20 Mile Bend boat ramp and there were no airboat operators on duty a call was placed to R/LT Rick Christmas who quickly responded from home and was able to rescue the stranded people.

I have had the opportunity to work several large incidents with these two folks and they are true professional who will do whatever is necessary to get the job done. It does not matter what time of the day it is.

It is the efforts of people such as Frank and Rick that made this happen.

Congratulations!

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Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Pahokee Christmas Parade

Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue participated in this year's Pahokee Christmas Parade. In the parade was Pahokee's own Engine 72, along with the Battalion 7 airboat.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Brush Fire in Belle Glade

On Tuesday, December 17, at approximately 7:15 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 73 responded to a report of a large brush fire in a subdivision near the southeast side of the city. Crews arrived to find a large pile of fallen trees and debris on fire adjacent to a vacant lot. Engine 73 crews were able to knock the fire down without any further fire spread. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.

Units on scene: Engine 73, Brush 73, District 7, EMS 7, AMR Medic 41

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Rollover Crash Near Lake Harbor

On Saturday, December 15, at approximately 6:20 pm crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 74 in South Bay responded to a single vehicle rollover crash on US Highway 27 3 miles west of Lake Harbor. Crews arrived to find a female occupant and her young son already out of the vehicle. The driver sustained minor injuries and the young boy was uninjured. The vehicle had initially rolled onto its roof, trapping the driver and her son. Several passer-bys lifted the truck off of her, pulled her away from the truck, and removed her son from his car seat. Fortunately, the car seat prevented any injury from occurring to the boy. Crews from Hendry County Fire/EMS and Clewiston Fire Department also responded as this was about 2 miles east of the Palm Beach/Hendry County line. Units on scene: Engine 74, EMS 7, District 7, AMR Medic 42, Hendry Medic 408, Clewiston Engine 1.

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Story and photos by Capt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on December 19th , 2007.

Construction Worker Saved After Being Buried Alive

Engine 32 and Rescue 32 in suburban Lake Worth were dispatched to a construction accident on December 12th at a site in The Fountains development where an underground lift-tank was being installed. A collapse in the soil had caused a worker to fall to a level approximately 12 feet below level ground and become covered with dirt. Dispatchers initially relayed to responding crews that the patient was buried over his head in dirt but that construction workers had uncovered him enough to clear his face. Engine 32's lieutenant requested the response of one of the county's two special operations units to assist in the rescue. The initial engine and rescue arrived within minutes and were able to uncover the patient a bit further before special operations crews arrived.

Once on scene, special operations crews from Station 31 began laying the groundwork for the below grade, confined space rescue. Firefighter/Paramedic Drew Reyburn spent more than two hours alongside the patient comforting him while directing operations around him from his perspective. Other special operations team members assisted by cutting and placing large boards in the hole in order to shore it up and keep more dirt from collapsing around the patient. The special operations team from Station 19 in Jupiter was requested, as was the special operations team from nearby Boynton Beach Fire-Rescue, in order to relieve weary firefighters working the labor-intensive operation.

A large Aquatech vacuum truck was brought in from Palm Beach County's Water Utilities Department and was used to remove dirt and mud from the area surrounding the trapped worker. Before it was all over, more than 25 Fire-Rescue crews worked together to rescue the worker. After more than four hours, the worker was finally freed and was transported by TraumaHawk AeroMedical helicopter to a local trauma center.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark Carr
Posted on December 14th , 2007.

Suspicious Incident - Car on Fire Crashed Into House

Engine 24, in Westgate, started the shift December 12th with a bang when they were dispatched to a fire in a home at 500 Dogwood Road in suburban West Palm Beach. They arrived to find a working fire in a car that had been crashed through a fence and into the rear of the single-family dwelling. The same crew had responded to another fire at the same location three days prior.

Engine 24's crew brought the fire under control with support from West Palm Beach Fire-Rescue's Ladder 5 and Rescue 5. There were no injuries and the fire remains under investigation.

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Story and photos by Lt. Mark Carr
Posted on December 13th , 2007.

Station 43 Honors 13 Year Old Hero

On November 11 of this year, a 13 year-old youth, Kevin Gombaut, had the surprise of his life when his friend and companion suddenly fell to the floor and appeared to be dying. The two boys had been playing football all morning and decided to take a break, go into the house and drink grape juice together. While sitting in a chair, 13 year old Jack Salonsky suddenly fell to the floor and began having a seizure. Kevin had never seen a person having a seizure before and thought his young friend was dying. He immediately called 911, his friend's mother and his parents.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Station 43 responded to the 911 call and transported young Jack to the hospital. The crew was so impressed with Kevin Gombaut's actions that they decided to honor him at the fire station this past Sunday, December 9. They gave both families a bar-b-q lunch in his honor and presented him with a certificate for his bravery.

Channels 5, 12 and 25 covered the event.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on December 11th , 2007.

Mobile Home Fire

A fire broke out in a mobile home today (11 am Dec 7) in Casa Del Monte Trailer Park. Units arrived to find moderate smoke coming from the unit at 1558 63rd Way S. The fire was quickly knocked down. Crews found the resident's cats had perished from smoke inhalation.
Units on scene included E36, E32, R36, EMS3, DC3, T43, PIO, Cat4, Q29, IV5 and DC10.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on December 10th , 2007.

Fire Nearly Spreads to Home

A fire occured on Honeywood Way in suburban Lake Worth yesterday afternoon (12/6) at around 3:00pm. The fire was in the rear of the home and involving a child's plastic play set and a wood deck, and had started to work its way into a bedroom window. A quick stop by fire crews saved the home from further damage. Cause of fire was yet to be determined.

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Story and photos by John Harsch, Fire Safety Specialist
Posted on December 10th , 2007.

Volunteering in the Dominican

A group of strangers came together for a common goal. They put the needs of others ahead of their own. They sacrificed their own comfort, made personal and financial sacrifices in order to complete their goal. These individuals helped a family realize their dream of homeownership come true.

John Norris, the Manager of Palm Beach County Fire Rescue's Video Department, recently completed another trip to the Dominican Republic with the Cambiando Vidas (Changing Lives), an organization very similar to Habitat for Humanity. This time, another Fire Rescue employee, Rebecca Clevenger, joined the team and contributed her time and labor to help a family realize their dream of home ownership. John, or Jack as everyone knows him, interviewed Rebecca and asked her some questions relevant to her Dominican experience:

What prompted you to go on the trip?: I thought it would be a unique experience. The initial email you sent prompted many questions I had about the culture. I know plenty of people who have seen the Dominican beaches but no one talks about the countryside or the people. I thought this would be a good opportunity to experience that.
How did you feel about our mission - 1 house, 1 week?: I thought it seemed impossible! However I figured that if that was the mission then you must have some plan in mind. I really walked in blindly having no idea what to expect, and of course I was constantly surprised. It was fantastic!
What was your first impression of the Dominican people?: Initially, it was wonderful. Then after a couple days it was even more wonderful. For the duration of the visit to Las Charcas and San Juan I was repeatedly impressed by the kindness, hospitality, hard work and playfulness of the Dominican people.
How did the Tropical Storm effect our efforts?: Oh, Tormenta Noel! It was horrible. We would huddle under the tiki hut next door as the bands passed overhead and as they turned to drizzle we would run out and work as much and as hard as we could until the next band came. The roads got damaged and there was a delay of receiving materials. Precipitation of one sort or the other was nonstop. I got very used to being damp and was thankful it wasn't any colder. Although the storm did have some good points, the best part was that it kept the mosquitoes away!
What was your impression of the food, lodging and transportation?: The food was impeccable! Everything was so fresh! There are some fruits, like papaya and mango, that I have eaten before and never really cared for. I tried them again in the Dominican Republic and they tasted so different! Everything there was delicious, I can't remember one thing I didn't like. The lodging was very nice. I didn't expect much, and was blown away. The lobby was in a beautiful, elevated, open air corner room surrounded by jalousies with a view of two mountain ranges. The rooms were simple but practical. The A/C and hot water worked before Noel came, so that was luxurious, although only for a short time. The transportation was one of the few things I didn't like about the trip. We all crammed into this little Dominican minivan that was not designed for a very tall person like me!
What was it like working, living and traveling with the team?: The team was great, we had a wide variety of ages and genders. It added up to a great mix of personalities. Everyone had a good temperament and we all blended and meshed well. There was always someone up for dominoes in our down time, always someone up for drinking or dancing, we always had people to do stuff with. Working together was great, everyone managed to find jobs that matched our capabilities and the team leaders set a great example. I learned so much I will have to go back and put my experience to good use.
What was it like working shoulder to shoulder with the Dominicans?: What a hardworking group of people! There were even little kids helping build the house. These little kids were so strong and eager to please, you would just work and whenever you needed something there would be a little nino waiting to fetch something for you, whether it was mortar or nails or whatever. One little boy didn't have shoes and he would still carry two heavy buckets of mortar around at a time. Amazing little kids.; The Dominican masons were very good at communicating with us, they would patiently teach us construction terms in Spanish and show us how to do the things we weren't familiar with. People from around the village came every day to help, rain or drizzle, and they were all amazing. I wish I had neighbors like them!
Describe the type of work you performed.: I placed block, put mortar in the joints, helped mix mortar and concrete, which was very hard with just a shovel on the ground! I helped make forms, and once we were ready to pour forms, I was a member or the concrete moving bucket brigade. I shoveled rocks into wheelbarrows to fill the floor before we poured the floor, which we did after the walls were up. I passed roofing material up to the two crazy guys up on the roof who were walking around on that spongy stuff, I helped run wire for the electricity, and pvc for the plumbing. I got to do a lot.
Did you get to use any of your medical skills on the trip?: Oh yeah! Charlie's wife is a nurse and she sent a medical kit along with him. The villagers sustained a few little scrapes and nail punctures on the job, but after a couple days people from the village began showing up with various little injuries not sustained on the job. At first it was a little frustrating because I was always busy doing something on the house, but after seeing the smiles and thankfulness on people's faces a couple times I started viewing it as a little occasional break time from the hard work. It was neat seeing how certain people see the severity of their injuries there vs. the US. Imagine trying to convince someone they need to go to the hospital for a dog bite that took off the tip of their finger and they say, "Oh it's ok, just clean it up for me, please." Wow, talk about culture shock.; There was a certain member of the PBCFR team who had cut open his hand the week before the trip and had to get his stitches removed while in the Dominican Republic. Rather than use a local medical facility, he wished to use a paramedic from our department, and I happened to be the only one handy. Even though we aren't trained to remove stitches, he insisted I was his best bet. After a certain amount of declining followed by a mass of disclaimers, I finally assisted my brother bombero. Facil!
What would you tell others who were thinking about going on a trip like this?: Do it! You won't regret it!
Would you do it again and why/why not?: Yes! I got to experience a beautiful culture and met amazing people. I saw amazing mountains, which are especially beautiful in the tropics, and I got the chance to eat, work and sleep there. I was able to repeatedly put smiles on people faces. I'd do it again in a heartbeat!
What one word best describes your experience?: Fulfilling.

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Story by Jack Norris, photos by Jack Norris and others.
Posted on December 10th , 2007.

Burgundy H fire in Kings Point

On Sunday evening 11-25-07 C-shift, units E45, R45, R45b, E42, E52, Q47, EMS4 and DC4 responded to what was a reported kitchen fire at an apartment in Burgundy H Kings Point. On arrival E45 reported heavy smoke coming from a 1st floor apartment. E45 passed command and begun fire attack along with R45b. R45 was ready to go as RIC. The kitchen was fully involved and quickly extinguished by the 45 crew. With the help from our newly installed TIC on E45, the seat of the fire was quickly found and extinguished. Primary search was completed successfully even though there was zero visibility throughout the house and no victims were found. The only occupant at the time was the owner who was in the process of cleaning her oven in "clean" mode when the fire started. Thanks to our new addition of the TIC, fire ground operations were completed quickly, efficiently and successfully without any injuries to our own. The fire is under investigation.

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Story and photos by FF/PM A. Faso, Station 45 "C" Shift
Posted on December 3rd , 2007.

Extra Mile on Thanksgiving Day

On Thanksgiving Day, Engine 17 responded with PBGFR, FHP, and PBSO to the Florida Turnpike for a vehicle accident involving a single vehicle rollover. On arrival, units found there were no injuries to the occupants of the vehicle, but a large Mastif had been ejected from the vehicle and fled the scene. After an exhaustive search along the embankments of the FL Turnpike for several miles in either direction, the dog was nowhere to be found. The family was heartbroken that their family dog had been lost on a day when family togetherness was to be celebrated. In contrast to normal procedure, the crews decided to exit the turnpike and search the neighboring areas and sub-developments as well. This initiative of "Going the Extra Mile" and not taking "no" for an answer became infectious and soon all three agencies were coordinating from different communities along the area in search for the lost family pet. Finally the dog was located and reunited with their family member, but not before biting one of the deputies. Words can't explain the appreciation that our fire rescue customers had for these crew members involved. The fact that we're always willing to exercise the boundaries of "doing the right thing" is what sets these folks aside from the rest. Rising above the element of efficient and satisfactory is what it means to "go the extra mile" for our fire-rescue customers. Special Thanks to Palm Beach Gardens FD, PBSO, FHP and our Frequent Fire Mile recipients: Lieutenant Bruce Thompson, DO Gordon Wilson and PM Douglas Taylor of E17.

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Posted on November 29th , 2007.

Housefire on Bluegrass Circle

Around 10:30 today, October 30, 2007, dispatch received a call from neighbors who stated there was smoke coming from the eaves of a home located at 6137 Bluegrass Circle. When units arrived they did in fact find smoke coming from all around the bottom edge of the roof of the residence.

The fire appeared to have originated in the attic and was partially extinguished when PVC pipe carrying water in the attic burned through, flooding part of the attic with water. Some of the roof trusses had burned through. Units on scene included E43, E46, R43, EMS3, DC9, BC9, R35, PI1, E32 and LA34.

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Story and photos by Captain Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on October 30th , 2007.

Turnpike Accident

Crews from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 42 responded to a crash involving a semi-trailer on the Florida's Turnpike just north of the Delray Beach exit in the construction zone. Two people suffered minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital. Miraculously, the two occupants of the car under the trailer were uninjured and able to crawl from the wreckage after the vehicles came to a rest. The accident is under investigation by Florida Highway Patrol.

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Story and photos by Lt. Craig Prusansky
Posted on October 25th , 2007.

Two Vehicle Accident

Ops 8 (Jim Collins) drove up on a traffic accident Tuesday afternoon, 10/23, at the intersection of Benoist Farms Rd and Belvedere Rd. The two vehicle crash resulted in one injury which required transport to the hospital. Luckily, no vehicles on the car carrier fell off, which could have made the accident considerably worse.
Units on scene included DC10, R34, E34, EMS3, PI1 and OPS 8.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on October 24th , 2007.

In Memory

We recently received a phone call from a 20-year resident of Palm Beach County who told a story that hits close to home for us all. Mr. Bill Herms had a 19-year-old nephew that was a volunteer member of the Sharon Hill Fire Department in the suburb of Philadelphia, Pa. The firefighter, Michael Reagan, was part of a crew that was fighting a garage fire at a residence and had just successfully extinguished the fire when the wall of the garage collapsed on top of him and two other crewmembers. The other two firefighters were injured but survived. Unfortunately and tragically, young Michael did not. At Mr. Herms' request, we are posting a link to a portion of the Sharon Hill F.D.'s website that has been set up as a memorial to their fallen firefighter. There is an area set aside for readers to leave their condolences. Our hearts go out to Michael Reagan's family and friends. We can all relate to this type of tragedy and it brings about another reminder about how dangerous our jobs can be and about how careful we must be at every emergence call, even at seemingly simple house fires.

For those that are interested, please go to this link:
www.station09.com/reagan.

Posted on October 17th , 2007.

Apartment Fire In Royal Palm Beach

On the morning of October 17th a fire broke out in an apartment in Royal Palm Beach. Around 7:15 am, calls were coming in to the dispatch center advising smoke was pouring out of apartment 108 in the Greenway apartment complex. Units found smoke and fire coming from the bedroom area of the apartment. The fire was quickly extinguished but the residence is totally uninhabitable. The Red Cross was called the assist the apartment's two residents. Among the units on scene were: E28, E21, R28, EMS2, DC2, PI1, Q29, E34, R21, EMS3, BC2, DC3, LA34, R29.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on October 17th , 2007.

Riviera Beach Water Main Break & Sinkhole

Command 81 assists City of Riviera Beach on October 11th, at the scene of a water main break and subsequent sinkhole, at Blue Heron Blvd. and Avenue F. The leak could not be isolated for over 24 hours, due to the lack of gate valves in the aging water line. Department of Public Safety (EOC staff) and Fire Rescue Water Officer provided technical assistance.

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Story and photos by Steve Collins, MPA
Posted on October 16th , 2007.

Turnpike Signal 4

October 12th, 2007-Osceola County FL, While returning from this year's Florida fallen Firefighter Memorial members of the PBCFR Pipes and Drums and Honor Guard rolled up on an accident on the turnpike involving two vehicles with heavy damage. The accident happened on a remote area of the turnpike in Osceola Co, resulting in a extended response from the area fire department. On scene with limited resources, members of the band and guard stayed with and comforted the injured until responding units arrived, and assisted with patient care with on scene units. Two patients were extricated from one vehicle and trauma-alerted to area trauma centers via two medevac helicopters.

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Story and photos by Scott Jurasz
Posted on October 15th , 2007.

Vehicle vs. House in West Palm Beach

The West Palm Beach Fire Department responded to a van vs. an occupied home at the location of Division Ave & 22 Street. On arrival, the residents were quickly accounted for; the driver of the van was transported to a local hospital. Due to the instability of the home, a "collapse rescue response" was special called for by the Captain of Ladder Co. 1.

The following companies operated at Division Avenue and 22 Street:
Ladder 1, Squad Co. 4, Engine 1, Rescue 1, USAR 4, Rescue 4, District 1, EMS 11, Collapse and Trench Trailer.

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Pictures and story by Lazaro R. Acosta
Posted on October 11th , 2007.

Veronica E. Juliano

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Pipes and Drums had the honor of being in attendance for the memorial of Veronica (Vee) Juliano. Veronica Juliano was afflicted with muscular dystrophy since the age of 2 and passed away this week at the age of 23. Veronica was a camper at the MDA summer camp held in Brandon, Fl where PBCFR and Local 2928 sent members as camp counselors for kids with muscular dystrophy. Veronica was definately one of the kindest and most warm hearted young ladies a person could ever meet.

PBCFR Pipes and Drums met Vee in the past, and had the oppurtunity to play for her, at the summer camp. It was our honor to be at her memorial to say goodbye to such a wonderful person. Despite her challenges with muscular dystrophy, Vee was also a truly talented artist. Please take a moment to visit her website at http://veronica-art.com.

On behalf of the Pipes and Drums and Honor Guard, we would like to express our condolences to the family of Veronica Juliano. She will be missed by many friends and family and it is all those who will miss her that are grateful to have been her friend and apart of Vee's life.

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Posted on October 4th , 2007.

Anthony Acosta Returns from Iraq

Our own Tony Acosta has returned from yet another tour of duty in Iraq. Tony and other returning Marine Reservists received a warm welcome from family, friends and co-workers. Two of the returning Marines were firefighters. One from PBCFR and the other was from the Town of Palm Beach. The local media was on hand to captue the event for the community.

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Story and photos by Capt. Don Delucia, PIO
Posted on October 4th , 2007.

Fatal Crash Between a Train and a Tractor Near Palm Beach/Martin County Line

A collision between a New York bound Amtrak passenger train and a Bobcat forklift stopped rail traffic for several hours along the CSX tracks in northwestern Palm Beach County on August 27th. Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue's Engine 14, Rescue 14 and District Chief 1 responded along with Engine 64 from Palm Beach Gardens Fire-Rescue.

None of the 192 passengers on the train were injured but the driver of the tractor died as a result of the crash. A heavy-duty wrecker from Sisters Towing was called in to remove the tractor from the swampy canal between the CSX tracks and State Road 710 near Indiantown Road.

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Story and Photos by Mark Carr
Posted on August 28th , 2007.

Fatal Accident in Belle Glade

In the early morning of Aug 19th, units from the 7th Battalion were dispatched to a traffic accident at Hooker Highway and Main street in Belle Glade. The initial dispatch information was that possibly 4 people were trapped. Due to this report 2 engines, 2 AMR Med units, DC7, Commander 4 and Trauma Hawk 1 responded.

AMR's Medical 41 was first to arrive and reported a one car MVA with heavy damage, 2 occupants, one being a fatality. The auto was west bound on SR80 when it crossed Main Street. Hooker Highway is the Western extension of SR 80 in the Glades. The car struck a very large concrete power pole at the front end towards the passengers side. The impact tore the engine out of the car. The driver was able to be removed without extrication and was transported to the Trauma Center by TH1.

Units on scene, AMR Med 41, Commander 4, PBCFR DC7, E73, TH1. PBSO and FHP were also on scene.

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Story and photos by DC Curtis Rice
Posted on August 20th , 2007.

Station 33 Thinks "Outside the Box"

The Customer Service Team would like to acknowledge the exemplary actions of Station 33 B-Shift. It is clear to us that these crew members displayed what it means of us when we intend on �going the extra mile� for one of our fire rescue customers. In addition, the engine and rescue company members worked together on developing a plan through improvising solutions that might be viewed as "outside the box."

Apparently R33 rolled up on a stranded invalid whose motorized wheelchair (Lark) had broken down in the hot South Florida sun one blazing afternoon a few weeks ago. By the time R33 crew made contact with the citizen, he had been in the heat for about 30 minutes already. Fortunately he was okay and there was no medical need; however, the crews needed some means of getting him home safely. Rescue Lt Pardo called for reinforcements from E33 back at the station where they utilized one of the FF's own personal vehicle (large pickup truck with open bed) in order to get the motorized lark home as well. The stranded man, who's weight was very heavy, was loaded on the rescue stretcher due to his unambulatory status without his transport. The crews took the man home and right into his apartment as well as delivered the Lark to the front office of the apt. complex as well. They decided to network with the property management officials so that a repair technician from the company could come out and make the necessary repairs right there.

Thanks go to all involved including our very own, Jim Hernandez who serves as one of our committee members as well as CSR (Customer Service Rep) for the Recruit Academy. For everyone else, Frequent Fire Miles will be awarded to the following members: RLT Dan Pardo, PM Mike Medley, PM Jason Ruffing, LT Dennis Peek, DO Jon Ferguson, and PM Scott Eddy!

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Posted on August 20th , 2007.