Fall Edition 2009

Sherry Brooks editing@carolinafirejournal.com

10/18/2009 -

In this edition, we feature expanded coverage in the area of Hazmat. It is such a vital area of the Fire Rescue EMS world, and we’re pleased to bring it to you.

We welcome Glen Clapp, president of the North Carolina Association of Hazardous Materials Responders (NCAHMR), and his expertise on all things hazmat. In this issue, Clapp covers the Annual Hazmat Competition, along with some amazing pictures from Michael Porowski. Read his feature article on the challenge of chlorine railcar enhanced fittings.

And there’s more. Read about Hazmat Suit Certification Standards, Bio Threat Detection, Rapid Recon and Assessment, just to name a few.

I want to congratulate the North Carolina State Firemen’s Association on the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo held in Raleigh. We had the entire Carolina Fire Rescue EMS Journal crew in attendance. Attending the show is really a labor of love. It’s so much fun to see all our friends from around the state. Hopefully, you had a chance to stop by our booth and say hello. The association ran a very professional conference and I know the attendees enjoyed the new arena, parade, classes and the Hazmat Challenge.

We also thank the South Carolina Fire Fighter’s Association for a great annual conference at Myrtle Beach. You’re a great group to work with and we appreciate being a part of your conference team.

Also in this issue, we welcome Joe Ellis as a writer in our health and wellness section. Joe has some tough words for first responders; and a challenge for you, along with many helpful ideas to get you started on your fitness regime.

Congratulations to Chief Randy Williams of King, NC on his retirement Sept. 11 after 44 years of service. I came upon Chief Williams watching over his men and women as they extinguished a fire at an apartment complex on Newsome Road in King NC (Rural Hall and Pinnacle departments also responded).

I doubt Chief William’s days in the fire service are over. With 44 years experience, his knowledge and skills will be called upon daily. Another of our everyday heroes.