fully involved - Prince William County Government

FULLY INVOLVED
September 2006
UNITY
ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE
PERSONALIZED DELIVERY
The Official Newsletter of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue
Whose Cup Is It?
What’s Burnin’?
From the Chief
2
Emergency Preparedness
3
Work Smarts
4
Panaroma Latino
5
Commencement Ceremony Recruit Class 06-1
6
Retirement
7
Community Relations
8
Health & Safety
9
Fast Food Survival
10
Safe You, Safe Me
11
Chaplain’s View
12
CQI Award — Sprinkler Express
13
Recruit School
15
Assistant Chief to Serve on
National Committee
17
Kudos
18-19
Next Month
20
Article by Lt. Steve Yannarell, EMS
On August 1, 2006 the crew from Truck 511 was awarded the Stand Down Challenge Cup for
posting the lowest time for the Stand Down Challenge. Their time of one minute and fifty-one
seconds topped their Station 11 mates of Engine 511 who turned in a 2:02, which was good
enough for second place. Rounding out the top five was Rescue 510 with 2:19, Medic 51, CShift at 2:29, and Tower 513 with 2:31. Although no prize was awarded for the accomplishment, Curtis White of Engine 511 turned in the top individual time at 1:40.
We hope the Stand Down Challenge was successful in getting people excited about PT again.
Whether you were competing for the cup or simply bragging rights within your station, one
thing is clear - everyone put themselves to the test.
Besides the fun and team building nature of the event, the learning component of the activity
was the opportunity for individuals to evaluate their fitness. Please take what you learned from
the Challenge and incorporate it into your PT program. Remember, peer fitness trainers are here
to guide you.
Thank you to all who participated and contributed to the success of the event. We will build on
this success and work to make next year’s Challenge even more fun and competitive.
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Fully Involved
From the Chief. . .
As a cross section of the Department wraps up a two-day retreat, I write this column to share some
of the information that was discussed and presented during the sessions.
Every year the Department holds a leadership retreat that brings management level department
members together to learn about upcoming changes in the organization and the County as well as
new management/leadership practices. Participants also receive professional development training
through facilitated work sessions.
“With the changes
occurring in the
County, our profession
and greater demands
being placed on the
services our
department provides to
the community, I
reminded the retreat
attendees that they
must take on the added
responsibility of
preparing to lead in
challenging,
transforming times.”
During this year’s retreat, I opened with a review of major happenings that we have experienced in
the Department since our last retreat. Some events mentioned were:
• Our response to Hurricane Katrina
• The 40th anniversary year long recognition
• The loss of our first incumbent uniform member – Technician II Johnny Thomas
• The success of our budget efforts resulting in 34.5 new positions exceeding the 19 identified in
the 5 year plan
• Implementation of a 4th battalion
• Efforts for community acceptance of the proposed Antioch Road Station
Some of these events we anticipated – the 40th anniversary, the budget process, and the 4th battalion.
Other events, such as the loss of Johnny, and our response to Hurricane Katrina were totally unexpected. None the less, the unexpected, unplanned, or unforeseen events, if you will, necessitated a
significant commitment of time and staffing along with the unveiling of a reoccurring truth– the
Department of Fire and Rescue handles the challenges of the unexpected extremely well.
For example, the loss of Brother Johnny was the saddest event many will ever experience in their
career. Yet, we all came together in mourning to comfort one another and celebrate a life that
touched many. We learned from our response to the unplanned that:
• The DFR is a flexible organization that can adjust when something unexpected arises
• During challenging times everyone bands together to get things done and support each other
• That our department has a reputation for its high level of compassion for its members and the
community it serves within Prince William County and beyond
During the two days of the retreat we heard several speakers discuss the future of the County and
how it will impact county agencies. Prior to the retreat, I am sure we were all aware of the
anticipated growth, but were both shocked and amazed when we learned about the projected
commercial growth and large-scale community changes, such as the Potomac Communities on the
east side of the County. We intend to have several of the presentations made available to the entire
department since the growth not only impacts the volume of our calls but also the types of
situations we will encounter.
In addition, County Executive Craig Gerhart discussed some of the challenges we may encounter
this year in the budget because of the changes in the housing market. The Board of County
Supervisors will hold a budget retreat later this month where they will set the guidelines for the FY
2008 budget. This information will also be shared with you at a later date.
(Continued on page 11)
September 2006
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Page 3
Emergency Preparedness Begins at Home
Article by Kathy Simmons, Emergency Services Administrative Support Coordinator
Life is full of unpredictable events. As first responders you face emergency events every day while you are at work and train
regularly to make sure you are prepared. But how many of you take the time to make the same preparations at home?
September is National Preparedness Month, which makes it a good time to take a close look at our own personal preparedness.
While there is no way to predict what will happen, or what your personal circumstances will be, there are three simple things you
can do now to prepare yourself and your loved ones.
First, make a plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review
what you will do in different situations. You probably already have a meeting place outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire. You should also have a meeting place outside of your neighborhood in case you are forced to leave or are
not able to return to your home. Pick an out-of-town friend or family member to be your emergency contact so family members
can check in. Be familiar with evacuation routes in case the roads you normally travel are blocked or inaccessible. And finally,
consider any special needs your family may have, including plans for the family pet.
The second step is to make sure your family has an emergency kit. Gather essentials like drinking water and non-perishable
food that is easy to prepare. Plan on a gallon of water per person per day and have enough supplies on hand for at least three
days. Your kit should also include a battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries. Adding a NOAA weather radio will
provide another way to get information during a disaster. First aid supplies and extra prescription medications should also be in
your kit. We all know how useful duct tape can be so make sure you have an extra roll or two on hand. Check your supplies
regularly and replace anything that is outdated. Make sure that all family members know where the supplies are kept.
The final step is to get information about the potential emergencies that could occur where you live and the appropriate
way to respond to them. Find out what kind of disasters, both natural and man-made, are most likely to occur in your area. Before, during and after a disaster, it is critical that you listen for the most local up-to-date information from emergency officials.
Local authorities will broadcast information as quickly as possible concerning the nature of the emergency and what you should
do next. Be sure to keep listening for updates.
We may not know if or when a disaster will affect the ones we love, but we can all take steps to make sure our families are prepared. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when
seconds count.
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Fully Involved
Work Smarts
Introducing Yourself, Short and Sweet
Enhancing your career can depend on how ready you are to take advantage of opportunity when it presents itself. That means
that you need to be ready to introduce yourself quickly to people you might run into casually in the office or in other business
settings. Mike Myatt, in the article “How’s your elevator pitch?” on the Ezine Articles web site, says that he has several versions
of his own introduction prepared depending on audience, environment and need.
Myatt says that a good introduction imbues you with credibility and confidence and allows you to tell others what you do and
how you are working toward eliminating fears the company has, eradicating painful situations the company faces, or meeting
needs the company has pinpointed for itself. And Myatt says you should be able to do this in 50 words or less.
So, for instance, when you run into a manager, you could introduce yourself by saying: “My name is Jim Johnson. I’m a marketing representative. I specialize in making sure new clients are comfortable in their knowledge about our services before they
commit their money to us. And this year, I’m working toward the goal of 100 percent client satisfaction.”
Once you have an introduction that you like, work to perfect it. Practice it—and then use it when the opportunity arises.
Preparing for small moments can open doors to a bigger future.
Need to Give Feedback? Try These Tips
Have you ever given feedback to someone, and that person pulled back from what you were saying
and fell into a defensive mode? If so, then you know giving feedback is an important, but complicated process— especially for managers—because it can affect morale and the bottom line.
According to “A Deeper Look at Coaching: Meeting Your Challenges” in the Leading Effectively e-Newsletter, the most important factor in giving feedback is to give your coachee the opportunity to learn and develop.
Sloan R. Weitzel in Feedback That Works: How to Build and Deliver your Message, says there are several ways to ensure that
you give feedback in the most effective way:
• Be specific when you describe the situation and behavior.
• Tell the coachee what effect this has had on you.
• Once you give your feedback, then be quiet and give it some time to sink in.
• Stay away from blaming words, and frame your feed-back in “I” statements rather than “you” statements.
• Be sensitive. What you are saying could potentially be painful to the coachee.
Guard Your Space Against Interruptions
Are you constantly barraged by interruptions? These days, who isn’t, right? But how do
you manage your interruptions? Here are a few ideas for keeping your time to your-self at
work:
Don’t chime in. When office chatter starts up around your cube, you may be tempted to join
the fun. But take a deep breath and think before you do. You may become involved in an
ever growing and time consuming fun-fest. Can you afford to? Would it be best for you to just put your headphones on and
keep on plugging away at your task. You don’t want to be asocial, but you do have work to complete, so you will need to decide
on a case-by-case basis what you should do.
(Continued on page 9)
September 2006
FULLY INVOLVED
Page 5
DFR Public Safety Education featured on Panorama Latino
Article by Public Education Staff
¡Luces, camera, acción! Translated from Spanish to English this phrase means, “Lights, camera, action!” On Wednesday, July,
26th, Rossanna (Rosie) Clark with DFR’s Public Safety Education Team was featured on a local Spanish language program called
Panorama Latino. This program reaches out to Prince William County’s Hispanic/Latino community providing valuable services
and information to an ever-growing population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2004), the Hispanic/Latino population is
estimated at over 55,000 people in Prince William County.
The show is scheduled to air every Friday in August at 8:30pm on Comcast Channel 3. DFR’s focus was on water safety in and
around the home. Some of the information that was disseminated included:
• Pool and jacuzzi safety
• Drowning, submersion and entrapment definitions and statistics
• Constant and active parental supervision
• Who to contact in an emergency
Our next taping will be the 3rd Wednesday in November to be aired weekly in December. The focus for this taping may include:
• Christmas trees
• Candles
• Outdoor lights
• Portable heaters
We will also be taping in May of 2007 for the June show.
Picture from left to right: Vicki Castro (PWC Public Schools), Sonia Garcia-Baco (PWC Head
Start Program); Stephanie Williams (Executive Producer, Panorama Latino), Rossanna (Rosie)
Clark (PWC DFR Public Education), Jaime M. DeCastellvi (Certified Court Interpreter).
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Commencement Ceremony - Recruit Class 06-1
Article by Olufunke T. Owolabi, Public Information Specialist
Friday, June 16, marked the day of yet another graduation for the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue’s training division where eleven men and woman were recognized for successfully completing recruit school 06-1. The 21-week academy consisted of rigorous academic and physical training at the Department’s Public Safety Training Center.
The graduation ceremony, held at George Mason University’s Prince William Campus Verizon Auditorium, was presided over
by Battalion Chief Jerry Shepherd. Deputy Assistant Chief John Coloe, father to recruit graduate Scott Coloe and Chief Logistics
Officer for FDNY, was the guest speaker.
As the guest speaker, Deputy Assistant Chief John Cole urged the new graduates to approach their new assignments with humility because the firefighting profession only exists to help people. He said, “ When you go out into the field you will get immediate respect from the public.” “Understand that the respect comes from the people before you. Your challenge is to earn respect
for the people after you.”
During the ceremony, two graduate recruits were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments. Adam Shannon was presented the academic excellence award by Lt. Chip Morrison for completing recruit school with the highest average - 96.57 percent. Graduate Mitch Zumalt was recognized by Todd Hewitt from the Prince William Regional Chamber of Commerce with a
leadership award.
The Department extends a warm welcome the following graduates:
Scott Coloe, E513
Michael Hendrickson, E507
David Jones, E516
Samuel Kaye, E520
David McAlister, E506
Daniel McGee, E504
Melissa McIntyre, E518
Nicholas Ramos, E502
Adam Shannon, E515
Kyle Wilson, E512
Commencement ceremony speakers provide words of
encouragement to the graduates.
Assistant Chief Kevin McGee
County
Executive
Craig
Gerhart
Mitch Zumalt, E525
Class 06-1 poses for a photo after receiving the
oath of office from Chief Deputy Clerk Wendy
Jones.
Chief Mary
Beth Michos
Deputy
Assistant
Chief John
Coloe
Recruit Class 06-1
Class Values
Perseverance: the determination to overcome all obstacles to
achieve your goals
Prince William County
Department of Fire and
Rescue Honor Guard
opens the ceremony
with the presentation
of colors.
Respect: treat all with dignity and understanding
Integrity: do the right thing through high moral standards
Discipline: exercising the self-control to do what is expected
of you at all times
Excellence: always challenge yourself to be the best
September 2006
Page 7
Lt. Lora Sharkey Retires
Article by Olufunke T. Owolabi, Public Information Specialist
Friday, June 30, was Lt. Lora Sharkey’s last day with the Department. Lora served with the Department of Fire and Rescue for 23.5 years. She was one of the first women to work as a
paid firefighter with the Department when she started in 1982.
Lora leaves the Department with a boatload of memories that undoubtedly will captivate any listeners ears with colorful, adventurous stories of driving fire trucks, fighting house fires, or extricating
patients. With a quarter-century worth of experience, there is absolutely no way Lora will ever be
void of fire service memories after her retirement.
So what will Lora do with all of her free time? Lora plans to become a veterinary technician. She
is currently taking a chemistry class and will be enrolling in more classes over the upcoming se-
mester.
Name a major accomplishment you achieved during your career with the Department.
Lora: “Becoming station commander (CO 17) and being elected twice as the Chairman of the Fire Services Board.”
What did you enjoy the most about working in the DFR?
Lora: “ I enjoyed the variety in job locations and the ability to move in and out of divisions. I also enjoyed working as a team in
an action oriented profession with FANTASTIC people.”
What will you miss the most about the DFR?
Lora: “I will miss several things. For starters, I will miss my fellow co-workers, and the instant gratification of extricating patients or extinguishing fires. Also, I will miss the feelings of satisfaction that comes from being involved with a subordinates
development.”
What major changes did you witness in the DFR?
Lora: “I witnessed first-hand the enormous growth the County experienced and the corresponding growth of the Department to
keep up with the demands of the expanding population/development. In addition, I witnessed the initiation of the 24-hour career
coverage and the separation of communications from fire and police.”
What words of wisdom would you like to pass on to the remaining department members?
Lora: “Let’s see...PT regularly, train, practice skills and continue to exercise your mind. Also, always support one another and
have fun - it’s too cool of a job not to!
**If you would like to keep in contact with Lora, please e-mail her at [email protected]. **
Farewell, Lora!
23.5
We wish you a safe,
fun-filled
retirement!
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Community Relations
Summer Months Offer Many Opportunities for Community Education
Article by Lt. Tom Pearson, Acting Public Education Coordinator
The summer months have been an unusually busy period for the Community Education team. In late July, we were invited by our colleagues with
the Prince William County Police Department to participate with National
Night Out at the Virginia Gateway Shopping Center in Gainesville.
National Night Out is a nationwide effort intended to heighten crime and
drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local
anti-crime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that
neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
(SOURCE: http://www.nationalnightout.org/nno/about.html)
Photo: Elevated view of National Night Out at Virginia Gateway
The event historically draws large crowds which afforded us the opportunity to mobilize the Family Safety Trailer. Many children, as well as adults, had the opportunity to take the “home safety challenge.” Participants were asked to identify a number of
“unsafe” items in each room as they progressed through each station in the trailer.
Several different pieces of fire and rescue apparatus were also on display including Mobile Air Unit 525, New Rescue Squad 504,
New Engine 504 (Commercial Cab), and Tower 525.
At the conclusion of National Night Out, event planners characterized the event as a huge success due to the large attendance
despite the oppressive heat. Our participation and success with this event could not have been achieved without the collaborative
efforts and support from the Gainesville District VFD and other participating Fire and Rescue personnel. Thanks to all for
making this a memorable event!
The 2006 Prince William County Fair was held in mid August. During
the fair, we offered new interactive programs that challenged the
participants to answer fire safety and injury prevention questions.
The Safety Challenge requires contestants to spin a game wheel and let
the selector come to rest on one of several interchangeable categories,
which include summer safety, water safety, 9-1-1, fire safety, recreational safety, child passenger safety, and harm prevention. They must
then answer a question from that category before being awarded a prize.
This year, prizes included stickers, gliders, glow-in-the-dark bracelets,
mini-frisbees, and safety dot stickers. In addition, each prize included a
fire or injury prevention message.
At both of these events, we introduced a new and innovative activity
intended to capture the attention of our target audience. With the help of
creative software programs, digital cameras, and color printers, we were
able to provide children with souvenir photos in picture frames with
safety messages printed on them.
Photo: Technicians Alloway and Greenfield
showcase the Safety Challenge Wheel to Fair goers. Everyone’s a winner!!!!
(Continued on page 12)
September 2006
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Page 9
Health & Safety
Mediterranean Diet Reduces Heart Disease
According to a recent study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, older adults who were at risk for heart disease and who ate a
Mediterranean diet for three months improved their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels compared with a group
who ate a low-fat diet.
The study included 772 adults who had diabetes
abnormal cholesterol levels, high blood pressure
or three or more risk factors for heart disease, such as
or smoking.
Two Mediterranean diets were tested in the study.
Both were made up of large amounts of whole grains,
fruits and vegetables. One group was asked to increase their levels of vegetable fats and was provided with free olive oil.
The second Mediterranean group increased vegetable fats and oils and received free walnuts, hazel-nuts and almonds. The
third group lowered intake of all fats.
Both Mediterranean groups experienced lower levels of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, and both Mediterranean
groups found it easier to stay on the diet than those who followed a low-fat diet. However, the participants were Spanish, and
researchers say this may have been a factor in participants finding the Mediterranean diets easier to follow since they were
closer to their native foods.
New System Can Improve Human Vision 400 Percent
A European research project has developed an infrared camera system that boosts drivers’ vision up to 400 per-cent during tests
that simulated poor visibility. Researchers also conducted the tests in real-life fog conditions and still found that human visual
perception was improved fourfold. The device, which is a set of dual cameras with sensors for short and long wave infrared, was
mounted on a car roof, says Piere-Albert Breton of Thales Avionics, a partner in the SEE project, an attempt to use cutting edge
technologies to produce enhanced visual systems to improve safety in automobiles and airplanes. An electronic system for piloting and recording was placed in the trunk. “It was really effective at detecting a person or animal on the side of the road,”
Breton says. BMW is looking into a low-cost way to develop the system. Now the cost is at about 5,000 euros per car, and
more for an aviation system.
(Work Smarts Continued from page 4 - Guard Your Space Against Interruptions)
Learn to break away. If you’re involved in a conversation with someone that you need to bring to an end, you can try mirroring what the person has just said and then changing the subject. The mirroring allows you to avoid seeming rude. For instance,
if someone is talking about the new juice machine in the cafeteria, you can say, “Yes, it’s great. By the way, I’m just starting to
work on the Johnson file, do you have anything you need to add.” This tactic will guide the conversation back to work and clue
the person in to the fact that you are moving on.
Don’t make your space too inviting for others. Unless you have clients meeting you at your cube, you probably don’t want to
set up a comfy chair for someone to crash on in your space. Use your judgment: Would you be better off without that extra chair
for visitors?
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Fast Food Survival
“If we're not willing to settle for junk living, we certainly shouldn't settle for junk food.”
Sally Edwards
7 TIPS FOR FAST FOOD SURVIVAL
By Joe Wilkes , Nutrition Editor, Beachbody.com
No, we haven't lost our minds. We don't actually want you to eat fast food. It's terrible for you. It makes you fat. It destabilizes
economies and nations. It kills the environment. Read Fast Food Nation. See Super Size Me. If you're
really serious about getting or staying in shape, fast food restaurants are not on your path to success.
However, sometimes fast food is the only option other than starvation. Long road trips, coworker lunches,
the only place your child or childish companion will eat—these are all situations where you may be forced to
enter one of these fluorescent dens of gluttony and decide which of their evilly delicious menu items you'll
be naming your newly enlarged buttocks after.
While the fast food companies have generally shown an appalling disregard for their customers' health, they
have lately been shamed by our nation's obesity epidemic into offering some menu items that have some nutritional value. They still can't resist adding a little unneeded fat or extra high-fructose corn syrup just to
spice things up, so it's wise to take a buyer-beware approach when ordering your meal. Here are some tips to
make healthier choices and some suggestions about the healthiest (relatively speaking) things to order at
some of the major fast food chains.
Get less for your money. This may seem counterintuitive, but the so-called value meals really only offer you extra calories, saturated fat, sugar, and other diet killers. While it may seem like an unbelievable deal that you can get twice as many fries for only
19 more cents, it's a bit of a false economy, unless you're saving up for a bypass operation. If you really want to save money,
pack a lunch.
One of the biggest problems with fast food is that the food is incredibly dense in calories, fat, sodium, and
bad carbohydrates. They pack a lot of unhealthiness into a small package. So you think you're just having a
quick bite, but you're really getting most of your day's requirement of fat, sodium, and calories. This is where
we get the term "gut bomb." Paying extra to ruin your health makes no sense. Ordering the small size may
not be as cheap per pound of food, but it will save a fortune when working off pounds of fat later.
Discover your inner child. The best place to find a reasonably sized portion for an adult is sadly, the children's menu. Bowing to
the horrible publicity created by childhood obesity, fast food companies have made the most improvements to the kids' menu. In
fact, at some restaurants, the kids' meal is the only way you can get healthy sides like fruit or carrots. It's great the kids are getting
healthier options. After all, the children are our future . . . organ donors. We need to keep them healthy. But if you eat the healthy
stuff on their menu yourself, you might be able to hang on to your own organs a little while longer. You don't
need to impress the teenage cashier with your ability to eat the maximum fries and triple patties. Don't be
ashamed to order the junior hamburger or even the kids' meal. And you might get a free toy in the bargain!
Stick to salads. A big problem with fast food is that many innocent-looking nuggets and patties are loaded
with added fats, flavorful chemicals, and high-fructose corn syrup which wreak havoc on your blood sugar
levels. Salads are a good way to eat ingredients where you can easily observe whether they've been adulterated with bad-for-you additives. Not to be deterred, the fast food companies will try to get you with the
dressings. Ask for oil and vinegar, if possible. If not, check the ingredients and calorie counts of the dressings
offered.
(Continued on page 14)
September 2006
Page 11
Safe You, Safe Me - Second Grade Program Leaves Lasting Impression
Article by Rosie Clark, Public Education Specialist
As a child growing up in Prince William County, I vividly remember firefighters visiting my school to teach us about fire prevention and safety. I remember the firefighters explaining the value of having an escape plan. I remember the firefighters demonstrating their turn out gear and their SCBA. I remember the firefighters teaching us to “stop, drop and roll”. Most of all, I remember feeling such overwhelming respect and admiration for these firefighters.
Many individuals echo the same sentiment. In
fact, much like me, your childhood experience with firefighters may have been one of the main reasons
for joining the Department of Fire and Rescue. The
Safe You, Safe Me program (more commonly
known as the “Second Grade Program”) is where many
children get to meet firefighters and learn about life
safety education for the first time. Each year, Fire and
Rescue personnel visit second graders to deliver a
three-part program. The first part begins with a pre-test
that gauges children’s existing knowledge of fire safety. Subsequently, children receive classroom instruction on such topics as
the importance of working smoke alarms, having two escape plans, what to do if one should catch on fire, and who to call in an
emergency.
During the 2005-2006 school year, we successfully delivered the program to 51 out of 53 Prince William County Public Schools
– that is nearly 5,000 second grade students! We received 27 out of 51 evaluation packets back from these schools. The packets
contained surveys that were completed by the students who participated in the program. The students responded with positive
comments regarding instructors and the overall program.
Next year, two new schools will be added to the growing list– Rosa Parks & Buckland Mills Elementary Schools. While we look
forward to the opportunity to educate our young community, we cannot accomplish this major objective without the crucial support that we receive from our Fire and Rescue personnel. Thanks to your efforts, we are able to provide quality instruction on
fire prevention and safety. More importantly, it is through your integral part in the Safe You, Safe Me program that we can leave
a lasting impression on our youth for years to come!
(Continued from page 2 - From the Chief)
I closed the retreat discussing with the officers and managers present my expectations of them in regards to their leadership practices within the department. With the changes occurring in the County, our profession and greater demands being placed on the
services our department provides to the community, I reminded the retreat attendees that they must take on the added responsibility of preparing to lead in challenging, transforming times.
I hope that your supervisors who attended the retreat will talk to you more about their experience. The information we received,
which will be shared with all of you in greater detail shortly, will definitely open your eyes as to where we as a county and department are going, service-wise, in the near future.
Get ready!
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Chaplain’s View
Article by Fire Chaplain Rudy Tucker, 506
Every now and then I am asked: “What prompted you to become a chaplain for the DFR?” It’s a
question, no doubt, that each of the chaplains is asked and no matter how many times it is posed,
the question is good for us to answer.
For me, the short answer is that someone asked me. Father John, the Department’s first and only
chaplain for 13 years, came by my church office and asked if I would prayerfully consider such a
role. In addition, a member of my church, Assistant Chief Bowman, similarly raised the question. Two persons with busy schedules took time from them to come by and talk. I was touched
by their sincerity and confidence in me to serve in such a capacity.
Following 9-11, I believe the nation was moved by the courageous work of firefighters and rescue personnel.
I certainly was and in turn, felt a sense to offer whatever support I could to the women and men who serve so
unselfishly. I felt compelled to help.
Most importantly, however, I decided to become a chaplain because this is an extension of my call to ministry. It is an extension of who I am and what I do.
Why do any of us do what we do? Those of us in the “serving” or “helping” professions, and I certainly
consider DFR personnel among these, look upon their work as not solely a job but a vocation, a life’s calling. Those who do see it as a job usually do not last long—at least that is true for the clergy colleagues I
have known. We do what we do because it’s a part of us…a gift from someone bigger than ourselves. In
responding to such a “calling” we begin a journey unlike any other.
“What prompted
you to become a
chaplain for the
Department of
Fire and
Rescue?”
My journey has taken me to faith communities in Vienna, Virginia Beach, Verona, Newport News, and now
Manassas. It has been a journey marked by challenges and joys, with grace and love ever present. That
journey continues with you, DRF personnel and the Prince William community. I am honored to live out
my calling with you and stand ready to assist in ways which draw us all ever closer to the One who calls us
to serve.
Continued Blessings
(Summer Months Offer Many Opportunities for Public Education continued from page 8)
The end result is a photo of a firefighter standing in front of an engine with the child’s face superimposed on the image. We are
still refining some of the technical challenges that we must overcome in order to produce these images in large quantities, but we
are extremely pleased with the program’s success thus far. Many of our colleagues played an integral role with the development
and implementation of this program; however, we owe a special debt of gratitude to Lieutenant Cayer for his “obsession” and
perseverance that made this all possible.
September 2006
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Page 13
CQI Award - Sprinkler Express
Article by Olufunke T. Owolabi, Public Information Specialist
On August, 15, fire protection engineer, Lyndon Loh and Captain Ernie Little were recognized at a Prince Willliam County Government CQI Award Ceremony. The two were awarded the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) award for their outstanding
efforts as part of a Process Action Team (PAT) to improve processes within their division.
Lyndon and Captain Little were nominated by Battalion Chief Warren Whitley for organizing, planning and developing the
“Sprinkler Express.” As a team the two looked at the sprinkler system review and approval process and developed a new process
that allowed contractors to do work on sprinkler systems with ten heads or less in business and mercantile occupancies without
going through the plan review process.
The streamlined process proved to be a success with customers. The process improved internal work flow by focusing on increasing customer service and making good use of a force field analysis, which assisted in identifying causes and effects of the
new process and the need for additional training for inspectors. In addition, the improved process increased customer service
through the use of a checklist to ensure quality inspection occur each and every time a Sprinkler Express review is done.
Prince William County Employee Picnics
Join your fellow employees for an enjoyable New Orleans’ style feast. The 2006 PWC Employee Picnics will be held on the following dates, rain or shine, from 12 Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Friday, September 22 - Judicial Center
Monday, September 25 - McCoart
Tuesday, September 26 - Landfill
Wednesday, September 27 - Ferlazzo
Friday, September 29 - Sudley North
The Picnics are held every year in recognition of Customer Service Week, which falls this
year October 2 thru 6. The themed picnic’s primary purpose is to recognize employees for
doing the right thing for customers every time.
Come and enjoy the Mardi Gras Celebration. It just won’t be the same without you!
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Fast Food Survival
(Fast Food Survival continued from page 10)
You're better off with a vinaigrette or vinegar-based dressing like Italian. Also, true to form, most places give you enough
dressing to dress several salads. Either use only half the packet of dressing or ask for a side cup you can squirt it into, and then
dip your fork in the dressing before you get a bite of salad. Another way to avoid the dressing trap is to forego it completely,
and scam some fresh lemons from the condiment or beverage counter and squeeze them over your salad.
Beware of "theme" salads. It's called a salad. It looks like a salad. It has lettuce. It must be a salad,
right? Like the restaurant I went to that had a "cheesesteak salad" on their menu (I kid you not). Don't be
fooled by clever naming tricks. A taco salad at most places is just all the unhealthy ingredients you're trying to avoid dumped on a plate of lettuce. In some cases, you're better off calorie-wise eating the taco in
its original construction. Use common sense when selecting a salad, making sure all the ingredients are
vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins you can recognize. Don't let restaurants mislead you into eating crap
disguised as food.
Have it your way. Remember the old Burger King jingle, "Hold the pickle, hold the lettuce, special orders
don't upset us." Take them at their word. Only don't hold the pickle and the lettuce, hold the mayo and
high-corn-syrup ketchup. Ask if you can substitute the grilled chicken breast for the breaded chicken
breast. Wheat buns for white buns. Lettuce cups for buns. Ask for extra veggies. And hold the cheez,
especially if it's spelled with a "z." Tell them you'd rather salt the fries yourself. When you order the
"healthy" grilled-chicken or fish sandwiches, make sure they're not loaded with mayo or special sauces.
Ask for salsa or mustard instead. After all, one advantage of a fast food joint over a fine restaurant: when
they're annoyed with your special requests, they can't spit in your food, because you'll see them do it.
Watch what you drink. The most profitable menu items for restaurants are soft drinks. Costing almost nothing to make, they want you to get as big a size as possible and pay for it. What you'll get is tons of sugar and
chemicals. And maybe eventually, diabetes! Try and stick with iced tea or water. And to play the broken
record again, if you must get soda, get the small.
And a milkshake is not a drink. It will often be suggested that you wash down your burgers and fries with
a frosty milkshake. Sounds good, right? You can tell yourself you're getting your calcium, fighting osteoporosis! You're also getting over 1,000 calories if you get a large at some restaurants. Even the kid sizes
come in at 300+ calories. Your drink probably shouldn't have more calories than your meal. Also, if it's
called a shake, instead of a milkshake, there's a good chance it doesn't even contain any dairy. Maybe
some whipped lard instead! Mmmmm, whipped lard . . . I guess Frosty Whipped Lard Shakes didn't make it
out of the marketing meeting.
Quick-Look Fast Food Guide
All hope isn't lost, though. You can almost find something healthy to eat anywhere. Here are the best bets at some of the most
popular fast-food chains. (Unless specified, salad calorie counts do not include dressing.)
McDonald's
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Small hamburger (260 calories)
Asian Salad with Grilled Chicken (290 calories)
Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken (220 calories)
Newman's Own Balsamic Vinaigrette (40 calories)
Fruit 'n Yogurt Parfait (160 calories)
Most misleading item: Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips. Premium chicken breast sounds good on the surface, certainly better than the mysterious McNuggets, but the 10-piece version will run you 1,270 calories, and that's before you dip
it in the sauce! You could eat two Big Macs and get fewer calories.
(Continued on page 16)
September 2006
Page 15
Recruit School 06-2
Article by Recruit Training Staff
The Recruit School machine keeps on churning with Recruit Class 06-2 now underway. This fall session brings 20 new recruits
to the Academy and, as usual, they have been inundated with their first two weeks of fire department life and culture. Several
subjects have been covered including Personal Protective Equipment and Command and Control. They have had a PT assessment and have been vigorously working toward
physical improvement to ensure their readiness for fire school. As
of this writing the Recruits are knee-deep in CPR
and EVOC with the beginning of EMT being launched this
week. And, thus, Recruit School 06-2 is off to
the races for the balance of the 21 weeks. Before you
know it, December will be here and so will Recruit Class 07-1.
As always, the Recruit Training Staff would like to
hard work and dedication they put forth to ensure a posi-
thank all the assisting instructors in advance for the
tive Recruit School experience.
It’s Coming - Fire Prevention Week
Did you know?
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•
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Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires.
Between 1999-2002, there were 114,000 reported home fires associated with cooking equipment on average per year, resulting in an annual 290 deaths and 4,380 injuries.
Two out of three reported home cooking fires start with the range or stove.
For more information about community outreach strategies and programs scheduled for Fire Prevention Week contact the public
education staff at (703) 792-6360 or visit www.firepreventionweek.org.
** Reproduced from NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week
web site, www.firepreventionweek.org. ©2006 NFPA
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Fast Food Survival
(Fast Food Survival continued from page 14)
Burger King
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Chicken Tenders – 5 pieces (210 calories)
Tendergrill Chicken Caesar Salad (220 calories)
Tender grill Chicken Garden Salad (230 calories) Note: both these salads are without dressing, where the "light" Italian will
add 120 calories, and the garlic parmesan toast another 70.
Whopper Jr. (without mayo) (290 calories)
BK Veggie Burger (420 calories)
Most misleading item: Tender crisp Chicken Sandwich. At 780 calories, half of which are from fat, don't think you're cutting calories with this batter-fried, mayo-slathered doozy. It has 110 more calories than the grown-up Whopper!
Wendy's
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Mandarin Chicken Salad (348 calories)
Caesar Chicken Salad (282 calories)
Mandarin Orange Cup (80 calories)
Low Fat Strawberry Yogurt (140 calories)
Small Chili (220 calories)
Plain Baked Potato (270 calories)
Ultimate Chicken Grill Sandwich (360 calories)
Most misleading item: Homestyle Chicken Fillet Sandwich. Apparently, "Homestyle" is code for "mayonnaise." At 540
calories (only 40 calories better than the Big Bacon Classic) you're better off with the more decadent-sounding, but healthier,
Ultimate Chicken Grill.
Taco Bell
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Crunchy Taco "Fresco Style" (150 calories)
Crunchy Taco (170 calories)
Ranchero Chicken Soft Taco "Fresco Style" (170 calories)
Taco Supreme (220 calories)
Gordita (chicken or steak) "Fresco Style" (230 calories)
Most misleading item: Fiesta Taco Salad. At 860 calories, this may be the most highly caloric item on Taco Bell's menu.
You can shave off over 300 calories by not eating the deep-fried tostada shell it's served in, but still, a pretty hefty calorie
count for a "salad."
Subway
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6-inch Veggie Delite sandwich (230 calories)
6-inch Turkey Breast sandwich (280 calories)
6-inch Roast Beef sandwich (290 calories)
6-inch Ham sandwich (290 calories)
6-inch Subway Club sandwich (320 calories)
Most misleading item: Meatball Marinara. What's in these meatballs? A six-inch sub is 560 calories; a 12-inch sub has
1,120 calories, and if you double the meat, you can get a single 12-inch sandwich with 1,920 calories and 84 grams of fat.
On the bright side, I believe the defibrillation is complimentary.
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Assistant Chief Elected to Serve on National Committee
Assistant Chief Brett Bowman was recently elected to serve a two-year term with the International Association of Fire Chief’s (IAFC) Board of Directors Safety, Health and Survival Section.
The mission of the Safety, Health and Survival Section is to support and provide leadership for the advancement of occupational safety and health within the fire service and the greater emergency response
community. The Section was established to concentrate on policies and issues relating to the health and
safety of firefighters. The establishment of the new section is a reflection of the importance the IAFC
attaches to the responsibility of protecting its most valuable resource – personnel.
“The Department of Fire and Rescue is delighted with Assistant Chief Bowman’s election,” said Fire
Chief Mary Beth Michos. “He has provided invaluable contributions to our organization and we know
he will be a tremendous benefit to the International Association of Fire Chief’s Board of Directors
Safety, Health and Survival Section.”
Assistant Chief Bowman will serve his term on the Board with 14 other fire and rescue service leaders from throughout the
United States. As a member of the Safety, Health and Survival Section’s Board of Directors, Bowman will be responsible for:
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General oversight over the affairs of the section
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Reviewing the work of the section and developing policy
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Amending or approving the budget prepared by the treasurer for submission to the IAFC Board of Directors.
Assistant Chief Bowman’s term ends in August 2008.
Three Members Complete Haz-Mat Class
Article by Lieutenant Rick Pennock, Safety Office
On August, 18, several department members completed an 80-hour International
Association of Firefighters Hazardous Materials Technician Course. The members
were instructed in hazardous materials chemistry, leak/release mitigation and decon.
The course consisted of classroom lecture and hands on practicals. In addition,
participants were exposed to using Level A suits, which were a tremendous
challenge in the August heat.
All participants are eager to put their new knowledge to work.
The Department members who completed the class were:
• Lieutenant Rick Pennock
• Technician II Andy Foster
• Technician II Jason Trainum
Congratulations Rick, Andy and Jason!
L to R: Tech II Foster, Tech II Trainium, and Lt.
Pennock
Page 18
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Kudos for a Job Well Done
TO:
Reverend Robert Moon
Reverend Rudy Tucker
Reverend Tim Perrin
Reverend Dr. A. J. Clever
Reverend Dr. Jeff Carter
FROM:
Chief Mary Beth Michos
I would like to congratulate all of you for receiving recognition for your invaluable volunteer service from the Volunteer
Action Center of Greater Prince William for your role as a Fire and Rescue Chaplain. This recognition is only a small token of gratitude the community has for your service to our community, your parishioners, and your fire and rescue brothers
and sisters.
I am very pleased with your continued growth in the program as we continue to formalize you in the County and in the Fire
and Rescue Department. Thank you again for taking the time to make a difference in someone’s life who may be having
the worst day of their life. This includes us that serve in the Department.
Congratulations again for a job well done.
TO:
All Public Education Staff, Career Members, and Volunteer Companies
who contributed the 2006 County Fair operation
FROM:
Assistant Chief Kevin McGee
I would like to thank each of you for your hard work and many contributions towards the success of this year’s Prince William County Fair exhibits. The exhibits, which consisted of several booths operated by the Department of Fire and Rescue,
the Fire and Rescue Association, and several volunteer companies, were evaluated at the conclusion of the County Fair by
fair officials and presented the 2006 Best Commercial Building Exhibit Blue Ribbon. The following booths/exhibits were
recognized:
1. Sparky the Fire Dog
2. Roving firefighter in full turnout gear
3. Mannequins dressed as firefighters/rescue technicians
4. Children’s picture exhibit (superimposed faces)
5. Safety Challenge Prize Wheel
6. Family Safety Trailer (FST)
Receiving the Blue Ribbon is excellent recognition. The award would not have been possible without the tremendous level
of teamwork, creativity, and commitment each of you displayed.
Thank you again for your work in educating our customers in a fun and interactive way. See you next year!
TO:
Technician II Everett Estes
FROM:
Chief Mary Beth Michos
Technician II Corey Davis
I want to express my sincere appreciation for the professionalism and courtesy you exhibited while responding to the home
of Mr. and Mrs. Buch of Gainesville. I recently received a letter expressing their sincere gratitude for EMS services provided to Mrs. Buch.
Your professional and courteous behavior reflects favorably on the Department of Fire and Rescue and its team members.
Thank you and keep up the good work!
September 2006
Page 19
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Kudos for a Job Well Done
TO:
Captain Lance McClintock
Lieutenant Richard D. Scott
FROM:
Chief Mary Beth Michos
A letter was recently sent to me from Kate Litton of the Sheriff’s office expressing her appreciation for the use of the Fire
Training Facility on May 16, 2006. She mentioned your warm welcome and hospitality and attention to detail were appreciated. I enjoy receiving correspondence of this nature where your hard work is recognized and appreciated.
Thank you for all the effort you put into your jobs and your support of the Department.
providing the best possible service to our customers.
TO:
Battalion Chief Jennie Collins
Battalion Chief Tim Keen
Battalion Chief Steve Strawderman
Captain Joe Robertson
Captain Bob Montminy
Captain John Shiflett
Lieutenant Scott Dixon
Lieutenant Everett Hinson
Lieutenant Tim Melton
Technician II Bruce Bolieau
Technician II James Bourque
Technician II Roberto Martinez
FROM:
Chief Mary Beth Michos
I commend your dedication to
Technician II Regina Miller
Technician I Sean Barkley
Technician I Teresa Chase
Technician I Mark Schwab
Technician I Ross Shannon
Technician I Michael Voigt
I was very happy to receive a letter from Colonel P. J. Streng of the U.S. Marine Corps expressing his appreciation for our
Department’s participation in the 2006 Marine Corps Base Quantico Antiterrorism/Force Protection Exercise.
He cited the Department’s “…expedient response and professional execution during all phases of incident command were
vital in validating our current Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection Plan.”
We continually look to strengthen our community and mutual aid ties, and by participating in multi-jurisdictional events
such as these, we accomplish this important goal. Your efforts towards making this exercise a true learning experience for
all, demonstrates the Department’s value of “Ultimate Performance.” Thank you for representing the Department in such
an admirable and professional manner.
TO:
Lieutenant Bruce Tucker
FROM:
Chief Mary Beth Michos
Recently I received a letter from Lieutenant Colonel David M. Regan, Department of the Army, Office of the Deputy
Chief of Staff, expressing his sincere gratitude for the actions taken at Skate Quest Ice Rink to save his life.
It is with great pride and appreciation that I would like to commend you on your quick thinking and professionalism. Behavior such as this exemplifies the County’s Vision of doing the right thing for the customer and community every time,
and the Department’s Value of Personalized Delivery.
Prince William County
Department of Fire and Rescue
9250 Lee Avenue
Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: 703-792-6360
Fax: 703-792-4362
www.pwcgov.org/fire
In October...
Monthly
•
Halloween Safety Month. Oct. 1–31. There are steps
you can take to make it a safe Halloween for children and
teens. For more information, browse
www.preventblindness.com.
•
Eat Better, Eat Together Month. Oct. 1–31. To encourage families to eat together. Research indicates that
children who eat with their families not only have better
nutrition, but they do better in school and have fewer behavior problems. For more information, browse
http://nutrition. wsu.edu/ebet/index.html.
Support the Department Newsletter
Contributions can be made to the Fully
Involved Newsletter in the form of
articles, pictures or kudos for a job well
done. Send your ideas/comments to
f&[email protected]. Please
submit all articles in Microsoft word
format and pictures as jpeg attachments.
2006 Newsletter Schedule
Submission Deadline
November 15
Release
December
2007 Newsletter Schedule
Submission Deadline
Release
February 15
March
May 15
June
August 15
September
Tell us your story—We need your
articles!
Weekly
•
Fire Prevention Week. Oct. 8-14. “Preventing Cooking
Fires - Watch What You Eat” - is the theme for this
year’s Fire Prevention Week. For more information visit
www.nfpa.org.
Daily
• National Diversity Day. Oct. 6. A day to celebrate and
embrace who we are, despite our differences, no matter
what race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age nationality or disability. For more information, browse
www.nationaldiver sityday.com.
•
Columbus Day. Oct. 9. Commemorates the landfall of
Columbus in the New World.
•
Halloween. Oct. 31. An ancient celebration combining
Druid autumn festival and Christian customs.
Mailing Label
Olufunke T. Owolabi, Editor
© COPYRIGHT 2006
Prince William County
Department of Fire and Rescue
9250 Lee Avenue
Manassas, Virginia 20110
FULLY INVOLVED is the newsletter of Prince William County
Department of Fire and Rescue. The newsletter is published by the
Department’s Community Relations Team. Questions regarding deadline
or publication schedule should be directed to FULLY INVOLVED at
f&[email protected] or (703) 792-6360.