HomeMy WebLinkAboutFD-7-86 TOWN OF i. ' CASTLE
REPORT File # , / �
Res.
By-Law #
METING: GENERAL PURPOSE AND ADMINISTRATION
DATE: MARCH 3, 1986
REPORT #: FD-7-86 FILE #: 10. 12.6
SUBJECT: Annual Fire Report for 1985.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
It is respectfully recommended:
1 . ) THAT this report be received for information.
BACKGROUND AND COMMENTS
Annual Fire Report on activities and fire losses for 1985 for the Town of Newcastle.
Respectfully submitted,
i
Aldridge,
Fire Chief.
JA/sr
February 24, 1986.
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INDEX
CONTENTS PAGE
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
ORGANIZATION CHART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
FULL TIME STAFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
LIST OF PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
FIRE LOSS STATISTICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
ALARM BREAKDOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
VEHICLE INVENTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
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FIRE PREVENTION PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
SUMMARY OF FIRE PREVENTION INSPECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . 20
HOME INSPECTION PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
TRAINING REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
STATION REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
MECHANICAL DIVISION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
1985 ANNUAL REPORT
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HIS WORSHIP MAYOR JOHN WINTERS - and -
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MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
The 1985 Annual Report of the Town of Newcastle Fire Department is
submitted for your review and information.
This Fire Department responded to 607 calls during the year, an
increase of 116 calls over the previous year. This increase is
partially due to non-malicious false alarms, residents becoming more
fire conscious and increased development throughout the Municipality.
It is with regret that we report one fire fatality for 1985.
The estimated total fire loss for the year was $528,902, which is an
increase of $2,372 over the estimated loss for 1984.
The total vehicle loss for 1985 was $175,950. Transient loss, fire
to road vehicles due to the concentration of major highways in this
Municipality, accounted for a large portion of the overall fire loss
increase. The increase in vehicle loss for 1985 was $74,340 over the
1984 vehicle loss.
The actual building and content loss for 1985 was $287, 150, which is
a decrease of $131 ,925 from the 1984 building and content loss of
$419,075.
I would suggest that the reduced building and content fire loss is
attributed directly to the Department' s increased Fire Inspection
Program, the enforcement of the Ontario Fire Code Regulations and the
pub,lic' s attitude toward fire safety.
Residents, businesses, industries and school boards continue to make
requests for Fire Inspections, Fire Safety Courses, pamphlets and
literature pertaining to Fire Safety matters, which are complied with
and scheduled throughout the year.
During 1985, Council approval was received to purchase a new Pumper
from Superior Emergency Equipment Limited. Specifications for the
vehicle and equipment were drafted by this Department and the vehicle
was delivered in October. The new Pumper has already proven to be an
extremely functional unit and of exceptional workmanship and quality.
Through a Fire Study recommendation, Council approved the hiring of
ten additional part-time Firefighters, which has increased the Fire
Department part-time membership to 80 personnel .
Continued. . . . .
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Cont Id.
To improve the Firefighters' knowledge of equipment, procedures and
practises, a training manual was prepared and one given to each
member. The training manual will assist our Firefighters to more
effectively serve the citizens of Newcastle by fulfilling their role
of preservation of life and property.
This Department continues to investigate the cause of all fires, both
to discourage arson as well as to determine the actual number of
fires relating to any specific cause, so that we can implement the
most appropriate prevention programs.
I would express my thanks for the co-operation and assistance received
throughout the year from the Town's municipal staff, Durham Regional
and Ontario Provincial Police, Region of Durham staff, Provincial
Ministries and Boards, the news media and many other organizations j
and individuals who have assisted the Department and to each member
of our staff for the dedicated support, assistance and co-operation,
which is so essential in providing this emergency service.
At this time, I would like to extend my congratulations to the follow-
ing Fire Department members who received Long Service Medals from the
Office of the Fire Marshal :
William Lyle - Station #1 - 25 years
Claude Miller - Station #2 - 25 "
Cecil Miller - Station #2 - 25 "
Frank Hoar - Station #2 - 35 "
Ross Mercer - Station #3 - 25 "
Harv. Partner - Station #3 - 25
Jack Mercer - Station #3 - 25 "
The Department is grateful to the Mayor and Council for their leader-
ship and support. We wish recently retired Councillor Edward Woodyard,
Fire Department Liaison representative, a healthy and enjoyable
, retirement and look forward to working with Councillor Hal . McKnight,
the appointed Fire Department Chairperson.
J. Aldridge,
Fire Chief.
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1985
NEWCASTLE' FIRE DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION CHART
TOWN COUNCIL
GENERAL PURPOSE &
ADMINISTRATION CTTE.
ADMINISTRATOR
FIRE DEPARTMENT +
_ CHAIRPERSON --------_----- FIRE CHIEF
w PLATOON CHIEF
Fire Dept. Secretary
DIVISION OF DIVISION OF DIVISION OF FIRE SUPPRESSION, DIVISION OF DIVISION OF
ADMINISTRATION FIRE PREVENTION RESCUE, SALVAGE & COMMUNICATION APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT TRAINING
FIRE STATION #11 FIRE STATI L FIRE STATION #3 FIRE STATION #4
DISTRICT FIRE CHIEFS - '
DEPUTY DISTRICT CHIEFS - 2
2 - FULL TIME 4 - CAPTAINS 4 - CAPTAINS 4 - CAPTAINS
5 - CAPTAINS 14 - FIREFIGHTERS 14 - FIREFIGHTERS 13 - FIREFIGHTERS
17 - FIREFIGHTERS
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
HEADQUARTERS STATION #1 - 132 CHURCH ST. , BOWMANVILLE
PERSONNEL
FIRE CHIEF
J. A. ALDRIDGE
PLATOON CHIEF
D. G. Corden
FULL TIME FIREFIGHTERS
G. Brown
W. Lyle
PART-TIME FIRE PREVENTION OFFICER
H. Davey
CONFIDENTIAL SECRETARY
Mrs. S. Roman
At the end of 1985 the full time staff complement included the
Fire Chief, Platoon Chief, Confidential Secretary and two Fire-
fighters. The Department also has a part-time complement of 80
Firefighters and one Fire Prevention Officer.
ANSWERING SERVICE PERSONNEL
Mrs. Grace Player
Mrs. Judy Davey
Mrs. Greta Luxton
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FIRE STATION #1 - Headquarters, 132 Church Street, Bowmanville
PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
CAPTAIN - John Carter
CAPTAIN - Howard Davey
CAPTAIN - Lloyd Forsey
CAPTAIN - Graydon Brown
CAPTAIN - William Lyle
Firefighter - George Moore
Firefighter - Steve Davey
Firefighter - Doug Seeley
Firefighter - Pat Mothersill
Firefighter - David Boyd
Firefighter - Mark Berney
Firefighter - Robert Payne
Firefighter - Ron Shackelton
Firefighter - Donald Forsey
Firefighter - Gordon Weir
Firefighter - Mike Murphy
Firefighter - Bruce Smith
Firefighter - Bruce Munday
Firefighter - Ron Carter
Firefighter - Irwin Colwell
Firefighter - Brian Smith
Firefighter - Rick Patterson
Resignations
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Firefighter - Bruce Goudey (May 1 , 1985)
Firefighter - Doug Taylor (Terminated Oct. 10/85)
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FIRE STATION #2 - 247 King Street East, Newcastle.
PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
DISTRICT FIRE CHIEF - Samuel Brereton
DISTRICT DEPUTY CHIEF - Alfred Alldread
CAPTAIN - Peter DeJong
CAPTAIN - Claude Miller
CAPTAIN - Donald Holmes
CAPTAIN - Ronald Potter
Firefighter - Donald Oke
Firefighter - Jamie Wright
Firefighter - Jeff Alldread
Firefighter - Cecil Miller
Firefighter - Robert Wood
Firefighter - Douglas McCurdy
Firefighter - Jeffery Langley
Firefighter - Gregory Martin
Firefighter - Frank Hoar
Firefighter - Roger Peel
Firefighter - Chris Cooper
Firefighter - Bill Hesson
Firefighter - Jon Hole
Resignations
Firefighter - Gerald Huber (July 9, 1985
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FIRE STATION #3 - Main Street North, Orono.
PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
DISTRICT FIRE CHIEF - Terry Hardy
DEPUTY DISTRICT CHIEF - Jack Mercer
CAPTAIN - Mel Hartwig
CAPTAIN - Dave Forrester
CAPTAIN - Donald McLaren
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Firefighter - Robert Jackson
Firefighter - David MacGillivary
Firefighter - John Gray
Firefighter - Jim Partner
Firefighter - Harold Lamers
Firefighter - Larry Jackson
Firefighter - John Clapdorp
Firefighter - Norm Tillson
Firefighter - Ron White
Firefighter - Allan Luke
Firefighter - Dennis Abramoff
Firefighter - Steve Welch
Firefighter - Bill Thomas
Firefighter - Stephen Bull
Firefighter - Richard Griffin
Resignations
Captain - Harvey Partner (May 22, 1985)
Captain - Francis Tennant (Sept. 1 , 1985).
Firefighter - Romke Talsma (Apr. 30, 1'985)
Retirement
Captain - Gerald Duvall (Sept. 30, 1985)
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FIRE STATION #4 - Trulls Road North, Courtice.
PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
DISTRICT FIRE CHIEF - Patrick Drumm
CAPTAIN - Marion Hockney
_ CAPTAIN - Robert Marsh
CAPTAIN - John Pittens
Firefighter - Randy Cole
Firefighter - Robert Hockney
Firefighter - Wayne Chapple
Firefighter - Maurice Wicks
Firefighter - Wilson Reid
Firefighter - Doug Richardson
Firefighter - Mike Kadykalo
Firefighter - Gabriel Merkac
Firefighter - Stanley Watt
Firefighter - Trent Elyea
Firefighter - Robert Wilson
Firefighter - Keith Richardson
Firefighter - Lloyd Masters
Resignations
Captain - Jim McIntyre (June 24, 1985)
Firefighter - Bev Heath (Mar. 1 , 1985)
Firefighter - Tom Simpson (May 1 , 1985)
Firefighter - Ed. Barraball (Oct. 10, 1985)
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FIRE LOSS STATISTICS
YEAR ENDING 1985 YEAR ENDING 1984
NUMBER OF ALARMS 607 491
BUILDING VALUE $2,011 ,500 $3,581 ,700
BUILDING LOSS $ 202,450 $ 296,275
CONTENT VALUE $ 1 ,040,900 $ 2, 146,800
CONTENT LOSS $ 84,700 $ 122,775
VEHICLE VALUE $ 471 ,900 $ 214,475
VEHICLE LOSS $ 175,950 $ 101 ,610
OTHER LOSSES $ 65,802 $ 5,870
PER CAPITA LOSS $ 16.17 $ 16.58
POPULATION 32,712 31 ,755
BURNING PERMITS ISSUED
BOWMANVILLE - 264
NEWCASTLE - 30
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FIRE LOSS STATISTICS
TOTAL FIRE LOSS
1980 - 1985
$ 1 ,400,000
$ 1 ,200,000
$ 1 ,000,000
$ 900,000
$ 800,000
$ 700,000
$ 600,000
$ 500,000
$ 400,000
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$ 300,000
$ 200,000
00 00 00 M co co d' io
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FIRE LOSS STATISTICS
1985 MONTHLY FIRE LOSS RECORDS
BUILDING AND BUILDING AND VEHICLE OTHER TOTAL
MONTH ALARMS CONTENT VALUE CONTENT LOSS LOSS LOSS LOSS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
JANUARY 31 $ 110,500 $17,750 $ 6,900 $ $ .-24,650
FEBRUARY 53 1,935,200 52,650 500 53,150
MARCH 90 314,600 69,725 42,000 40,000 151 ,725
APRIL 81 79,800 6,125 11,200 1 ,352 18,677
MAY 49 -- -- 44,425 1,450 45,875
JUNE 37 86,000 37,500 8,125 45,625
JULY 56 -- -- 2,400 2,400
AUGUST 57 11 ,600 11 ,600 5,200 23,000 39,800.
SEPTEMBER 40 130,000 200 5,000 5,200
OCTOBER 37 144,200 28,600 700 29,300
NOVEMBER 43 197,500 50,000 7,200 57,200
DECEMBER 33 43,000 13,000 42,300 55,300
TOTALS 607 $4,052,400 $287,150 $175,950 $65,802 $528,902
Column #3: These are estimated values on buildings and contents where fires occur.
Column #4: These are estimated losses of buildings and contents where fires occur.
Column #5: Total loss of vehicles on public highways and areas in the Town of Newcastle.
Column #6: These are estimated unclassifiable losses.
FIRE LOSS STATISTICS
MAJOR FIRES DURING 1985
THE FOLLOWING REPRESENTS MAJOR FIRE LOSS DURING 1985:
February 27 Dwelling (vacant) Lot 22, Conc. 1 , Darl. $30,200
February 22 Two storey barn Lot 32, Conc. 8, Clarke 7,000
March 14 Darl . Gen. Station B.F.C. , Darlington 40,000
March 18 General store Kendal 40,000
March 29 Dwelling Lot 12, Conc. 1 , Darl . 29,000
March 23 Tractor trailer Highway 401 40,000
May 23 Industrial vehicle R. R. #1 , Newtonville 35,000
June 23 Dwelling 24 O' Dell , Bowmanville 14,000
June 30 Barn Courtice Road South 17,000
August 22 Transport Highway 401 23,000
August 22 Barn Orono 10,000
October 5 Dwelling 104 Scugog, Bowmanville 17,000
November 18 Dwelling 187 King E. , Newcastle 20,000
November 10 Dwelling Lot 16, Conc. 6, Darl. 30,000
December 18 Dwelling R. R. #1 , Bowmanville 13,000
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
FIRE STATION EMERGENCY RESPONSE
STATION #1 , BOWMANVILLE 373
STATION #2, NEWCASTLE 95
STATION #3, ORONO 63
STATION #4, COURTICE 76
TOTAL CALLS 607
The following is a breakdown of the
methods used to transmit fire alarms
to the Fire Department.
BREAKDOWN METHOD USED
TELEPHONE 500
ALARM PANEL 84
RADIO 2
VERBAL 3
POLICE 18
AMBULANCE
AVERAGE EMERGENCY RESPONSE TIMES PER STATION
STATION #1 , BOWMANVILLE 7 minutes
STATION #2, NEWCATLE 9
STATION #3, ORONO 9
STATION #4, COURTICE 10
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BREAKDOWN OF ALARMS FOR YEAR
The Fire Department responded to a total of 607 alarms from all occu-
pancies during 1985.
DWELLINGS 150
RESTAURANTS 2
SCHOOLS 10
DAY CARE CENTRES 1
WAREHOUSES 2
BARNS/SHEDS 27
CHURCHES
VEHICLES 107
LUMBER YARDS
SALVAGE YARDS
SCHOOL YARDS
CLEANING ESTABLISHMENTS
THEATRES
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS 25
APARTMENTS 22
HOSPITALS 9
PUBLIC ASSEMBLY BLDG. 6
GRASS/RUBBISH 128
SERVICE STATIONS 3
INDUSTRIES 54
HOTELS/MOTELS 3
AMUSEMENT CENTRES
BANKS 2
ARENAS 2
NURSING HOMES 18
MUSEUMS
MISCELLANEOUS 32
HYDRO LINES DOWN/ARCING
• 4
TOTAL FOR YEAR 14 607
CLASSIFICATION OF CAUSES
CHIMNEY FIRES 46
INSTALLATION DEFICIENCIES 2
FURNACES 2
COOKING EQUIP./GREASE FIRES 10
ELECTRIC WIRING/MOTORS 19
HYDRO LINES DOWN/ARCING 4
GRASS/BUSH 74
RUBBISH 45
SMOKERS MATERIAL/MATCHES 7
OPEN FLAMES/HOT ASHES/EMBERS 9
SPRINKLER PRESSURE SURGE (ACCIDENTAL) 3
FALSE ALARMS 112
VEHICLE ACCIDENTS 30
VEHICLE FIRES 50
STEAM/SMOKE/ODOURS (MISTAKEN FOR FIRE) 28
GASOLINE WASHDOWN 9
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS 2
PUBLIC SERVICE 60
RESCUE 2
REPAIR GARAGE/WORK SHOPS 1
INCENDIARY NATURE 4
PROPANE BLOW TORCH 1
SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION 3
LIGHTNING STRIKE 5
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ASSISTS TO OTHER HAILS 55
MISCELLANEOUS 23
UNDETERMINED 1
TOTAL FOR THE YEAR 607
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
VEHICLE INVENTORY
1950 Bickle Seagrave Pumper
G.M.C. Chassis - 500 G.P.M. - 450 gallon water tank
(Unit 7).
1959 King Seagrave Pumper
Ford Chassis - 625 G.P.M. - 500 gallon water tank
3 stage pump (Unit 2).
1965 King Seagrave Pumper
G.M.C. Chassis - 625 G.P.M. - 500 gallon water tank
(Unit 5).
1971 King Seagrave Pumper
- Ford Chassis - 840 G.P.M. - 600 gallon water tank
2 stage pump (Unit 3).
1974 Tanker
- Ford Chassis - 250 G.P.M. - 1500 gallon water tank
P.T.O. pump (Unit 4).
1977 Tanker
- G.M.C. Chassis - 250 G.P.M. - 1500 gallon water tank
P.T.O. pump (Unit 9).
1979 Pontiac Station Wagon
- (Unit 1 ).
1979 Pierreville Pumper
- G.M.C. Chassis - 840 G.P.M. - 600 gallon water tank
2 stage waterous pump (Unit 10).
1980 Ford 4 x 4 Pickup Truck
- (Unit 11 ).
1981 Pierreville Combination Aerial Pumper
International Chassis - 840 G.P.M. - 450 gallon
water tank - 75 ft. water tower & aerial ladder
(Unit 12) .
Continued. . .
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
VEHICLE INVENTORY
Cont'd. . .
1981 Gruman Olson Van
- G.M.C. Chassis. (Unit 8).
1983 Chevrolet Malibu Station Wagon.
(Unit 14).
1984 Tanker
G.M.C. Chassis - 250 G.P.M. - 1500 gallon water tank
P.T.O. pump (Unit 15).
1986 Superior Pumper
International Chassis - 1050 G.P.M. - 500 gallon water
tank - triple combination (Unit 6) .
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
FIRE PREVENTION PROGRAM
In reviewing our goals and objectives for the year 1985 it is my
opinion that we have been successful in several of our endeavours.
Fire Prevention is very much like the weather, we .do not have full
control of it. The people we deal with most often feel "it will
never happen to me", however, how wrong they may be.
Though a slight decrease in the number of inspections is indicated,
our overall operation was far more intensive, involving numerous lec-
tures, demonstrations and responses to requests and complaints, The
Department will continue to accommodate the increased demand for
educational Fire Safety Programs from various community groups.
Inspections have been completed on mercantile buildings, apartments,
schools, day nurseries, nursing homes, homes for the aged, industrial
buildings, hospital , places of public assembly, churches, motels and
all municipally owned buildings.
In this second year of the Inspection Program, it is quite noticeable
the decrease in fire code violations found. Business and industry
have been extremely co-operative in dealing with the Department' s
recommendations. Once they have received instructions as to mainten-
ance and servicing of fire safety systems and equipment, it now
becomes part of the annual duties to be carried out.
A continuing program of lectures, films and demonstrations were given
to the following groups:
Fifth Wheel Truck Stop employees Vincent Massey School
Clarke High School students (2 sessions) Kirby School
Plains Shell Station employees Newtonville School
Central Lake Ontario Conservation Lockhart School
Authority (all summer employees) Lord Elgin School
Bowmanville Sr. Public School Strathaven Nursing Home
South Haven Nursing Home staff staff
Girl Guide fire safety courses were held throughout the year for a
number of Girl Guide groups with certificates issued to all who
participated. Fire Safety babysitting courses were also conducted
throughout the year in conjunction with Clarke High School and Trinity
United Church.
Continued. . . . . .
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Fire Prevention Program, Cont'd.
In addition, the following Departments and Agencies were dealt with
relevant to plan approvals and regulation enforcement:
Department of Planning & Development
Department of Public Works (Newcastle)
Department of Public Works (Durham Region)
Ontario Hydro, Inspection Branch
Ontario Liquor Licence Board
Ontario Ministry of Community & Social Services
Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General
Ontario Ministry of Commercial and Consumer
Relations (Technical Standards-Energy Branch)
Northumberland-Newcastle Board of Education
Durham Regional Police
Underwriters Laboratories of Canada
Canadian Standards Association
Our efforts in Fire Prevention would have been much less effective,
without the extended assistance of the news media. We acknowledge a
debt of gratitude.
Inspection requests for solid fuel burning appliances continued
throughout the year totalling approximately 83 inspections, a slight
increase from last year.
H. Davey,
Fire Prevention Officer.
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SUMMARY OF FIRE PREVENTION INSPECTIONS
ASSEMBLY: Schools, Churches, Clubs, Restaurants, 263
Arenas
INSTITUTIONAL: Nursing Homes, Special Care Hospitals 47
RESIDENTIAL: Apartments, Motels, Hotels, Private 1 ,430
Residences (including Home Inspection
Program) .
BUSINESS AND
PERSONAL SER-
VICE: Shops, Dry Cleaners, Offices 154
MERCANTILE: Department Stores, Shops, Supermarkets 98
INDUSTRIAL: Garages, Factories, Spray Painting 112
BUILDING
PLANS: New Construction, Alterations, Depart- 124
ment of Planning and Development
PETROLEUM 26
PRODUCTS: Flammable Storage Tanks, Handling Codes
MISCELLANEOUS: Complaints (yards, alleys, etc. ) 60
HYDRO DEFECTS: Wiring, Electric Panels, Extension Cords 17
DEPARTMENTAL
INQUIRIES: Regarding Fire Department 484
SOLID FUEL
BURNING APPLI-
ANCES: Woodstoves, etc. inspections 83
TOTAL FOR YEAR 2,898
INCENDIARY NATURE FIRES: 2
PENDING: 1
CHARGES LAID 1
CONVICTIONS: --
FATALITY BY FIRE: 1
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NEWCASTLE' FIRE DEPARTMENT
HOME INSPECTION PROGRAM
The residential Home Inspection Program started in 1984 and continued
again in 1985 using in-service crews of part-time firefighters.
Approximately 1 ,277 houses were inspected and the program was well
received by home owners.
The main concern experienced with the program was with manpower and
the part-time firefighters being able to find the time that is required
to devote to this program. Because of the vast area of this Munici-
pality, a program of this nature is extremely time consuming and our
members are finding that they just do not have the time available,
that is required.
I am hoping that we will be able to continue with this Home Inspection
Program, even if it is on a reduced basis in 1986.
The inspections give the residents an opportunity to talk with fire-
fighters in other than emergency situations and to discuss topics
such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, escape plans and general
fire safety matters.
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
OCTOBER 7th - 12th
Once again we are pleased to report on the activities of Fire Preven-
tion Week.
Prior to Fire Prevention Week, all schools in the Municipality had par-
ticipated in fire drills conducted by the Fire Department. Evacuation
times and areas of concern were noted with written reports sent to
school principals and school boards noting areas of concern and methods
for improvement.
Demonstrations and displays of equipment and vehicles were held daily
at Fire Station #1 and on Saturday at the other three stations.
McDonalds Restaurants of Canada participated in a fire safety program
in conjunction with Fire Departments and Fire Prevention Week promoting
"Plan to Get Out Alive". The program was designed to encourage fam-
ilies and individuals to develop and practise an in-home family fire
escape program. All support material for this program was supplied
by McDonalds at no cost to the local Fire Department.
Fire Prevention Week was capped off with the draw for fire extinguish-
ers, smoke detectors, a safety lantern and other prizes, donated by
area merchants and the announcement of "Fire Chief for a Day" winner
Derek Kaufman.
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING DIVISION
Fire Chief J. A. Aldridge
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TRAINING
No person can be expected to be knowledgeable about a subject
without training, and the degree of a person's knowledge is direct-
ly related to the quality, frequency and thoroughness of his
exposure to a subject, combined with his desire to learn. It is
only through a continuous, well planned training program that fire-
fighting personnel at all levels can achieve the academic knowledge
and practical proficiency essential for the accomplishment of a
wide variety of activities encompassed by the Fire Protection
Field.
Training in this department is organized as a combination of on
the job training, special courses, scheduled training drills and
evolution and participation in workshops and courses presented by
the Office of the Fire Marshal and the Ontario Fire College.
This report covers the activities of the Training Division under
the direction of the Platoon Chief.
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING DIVISION REPORT
In the past year, with the number of fire calls increasing, but struc-
tural fire loss being down, we have to attribute this to our increase
in fire prevention awareness programs and the improved techniques of
firefighting used when a fire emergency occurs.
With the distribution of Fire Department Training Manuals to each
member, the on going training program that has been carried out at each
fire station will now be taken into the firefighter's home. By reading
the Training Manual at the firefighter' s leisure, he will be aware of
the theory involved behind firefighting and rescue work. When a fire
or rescue emergency occurs, the firefighter will know the theory and
apply it to the practical training he has received at the fire station.
Five regular training sessions are held monthly. Each of the four
stations has one training session, plus an additional session is held
at Station 1 to accommodate the shift workers, unable to attend their
station for training.
JANUARY - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4 - indoor exercise - self
contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) . A prac-
tical exercise was conducted on uses, care, main-
tenance and wearing of SCBA.
Also a slide film was shown on ropes, knots and
hitches, followed with a practical exercise.
FEBRUARY - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4 - outdoor exercise -
types of ladders used in the fire service,
practical exercise on parts and types of
ladder raises used. A slide film was shown
on the types of ladders and climbing tech-
niques used, with a discussion following.,
MARCH - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4 - indoor exercise. A
slide film was shown on fire hose, techniques
of unloading and advancing hose lines, fol-
lowed by a discussion and practical exercise.
Also a film entitled "Firefighters and Elec-
tricity" was shown pointing out the dangers
involved with the presence of electricity in
firefighting.
APRIL - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4 - outdoor exercise.
Practical exercise on operation and use of
auto extrication equipment, using training
vehicles.
Practical exercise on extinguishment of
vehicles fires using training vehicles.
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Continued. .
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Training Report, Cont'd.
MAY - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4 - outdoor exercise.
The proper use of ladders, ladder raises,
ladder carries, maintenance and care for
ladders, proper placement and positioning
of ladders.
JUNE - Station 1 . Outdoor exercise. Practical
exercises including auto extrication, oil
pit fires, portable pump operations and
master stream devices.
Stations 2 & 3 - outdoor exercise.
Practical exercise including portable
pump operations, tanker refilling pro-
cedures and master stream devices.
Station 4 - outdoor exercise. Practical
exercise on hydrant hookup, hose lays and
master stream devices.
JULY - Station 1 . Outdoor exercise. Practical
exercises including auto extrication,
foam application and aerial operations.
Stations 2, 3 & 4. Indoor exercise.
Introduction of the smoke generating
machine using SCBA in a simulated fire
situation.
AUGUST - Station 1 . Outdoor exercise. Practical
exercises including the use of ground
and aerial ladders in rescue operations,
and operation of the sked stretcher.
Stations 2, 3 & 4 - Indoor exercise.
Practical exercises including proper
care and maintence of SCBA and opera-
tion of the sked stretcher.
SEPTEMBER - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4. Outdoor exercise.
Practical exercise using auto extrica-
tion equipment, hand tools and the heavy
hydraulic tool (hurst tool ) on training
vehicles. Indoor exercise using the
smoke generating machine to simulate a
fire situation and use of SCBA in that
situation.
OCTOBER - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4. Indoor exercise.
Introduction of hazardous materials
guide and its uses and the types of
placards and labels found on vehicles
transporting hazardous goods.
NOVEMBER - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4. Indoor exercise.
Practical exercise including the tying
of knots and hitches for rescue work
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Training Report, Cont'd.
NOVEMBER - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4. Indoor exercise.
Practical exercise including the tying
of knots and hitches for rescue work,
the raising and lowering of equipment
to different levels and the proper pro-
cedure for donning the SCBA.
DECEMBER - Stations 1 , 2, 3 & 4. Indoor exercise.
The new Fire Department Training Manual
was introduced and a section on fire
suppression systems was reviewed.
Outdoor exercise. Types of ladders,
proper ladder positions, ladder raises
and the technique of climbing ladders.
Also, safety procedures were discussed
for the different uses of ladders.
Throughout the year members took part in additional training sessions,
familiarization tours, as well as certificate courses in C.P.R. and
First Aid.
In January, members from Station 1 took part in a familiarization tour
, of the Town of Bowmanville to view the different standpipe and sprinkler
connection locations for business, industry, residential and nursing
home locations. Also, during this month members from all four stations
took part in a C.P.R. training program and recertification program.
In February, members of the department attended a presentation at
Station 3, Orono, given by Ontario Hydro on the transportation of radio
active goods. Industrial tours of Dennison Manufacturing and Delta
Faucet were also conducted during the month.
In March, familiarization tours of Strathaven and Marnwood House nursing
homes were conducted. Also, a St. John's Ambulance first aid course
was run with eight members receiving certificates.
In May a recruit firefighter training program was started to give the
new firefighters training in the basic techniques of firefighting and
rescue procedures.
In June, members took part in the annual Home Inspection Program. Two
members attended at the Brampton Fire Department for a demonstration on
the use of foam in firefighting.
In July, vehicles and equipment were on display and pamphlets given out
on Fire Prevention in the Home at the Annual Sidewalk Sale in Bowman-
ville.
In October, three members attended a seminar on arson hosted by the
Toronto Fire Department at the Toronto Fire Academy. Six members from
the department attended a one week regional fire training school hosted
by the Oshawa Fire Department in conjunction with the Office of the
Fire Marshal .
In November, the Fire Prevention Officer attended a weekend fire preven-
tion course at the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst.
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Training Report, Cont'd.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those members who
took part in courses, demonstrations, tours and training exercises that
were conducted over the past year.
D. G. Corden,
Platoon Chief.
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING COURSES ATTENDED
St. John's Ambulance First Aid Course - March 30th and April 13th.
Attended By: Irwin Colwell - Station #1
Stephen Davey -
Rick Patterson - "
Bruce Smith -
Doug McCurdy - Station #2
Allan Luke - Station #3
Marion Hockney - Station #4
Bob Wilson - Station #4
All members attending this course received certificates.
Emergency Planning Workshop - September 30th & October 1st.
Hosted By: - Ontario Hydro
Attended By: - J. Aldridge, Fire Chief.
Arson Seminar - October 1 , 1985.
Hosted By: - Toronto Fire Academy.
Attended By: - Sam Brereton, District Chief
Station #2.
- Graydon Brown, Station #1
- Howard Davey, "
Regional Fire Training School - October 7th - 11th.
Hosted By: - Oshawa Fire Department.
Conducted By: - Ontario Fire College.
Attended By: Don Forsey - Station #1
Gord Weir - "
Doug McCurdy - Station #2
Terry Hardy - Station #3, District Chief.
Allan Luke - Station #3'
Pat Drumm - Station #4, District Chief.
All members attending this course received graduation certificates.
Fire Prevention Course - November 22, 23 & 24th.
Hosted By: - Ontario Fire College
Attended By: - Howard Davey, Fire Prev. Officer
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
STATION REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS
In 1985 the following repairs and improvements were completed:
Station #1 - interior painting of the office, kitchen and
meeting room area.
further repairs to the ramp heating cables.
Station #2 - blocking up of five large windows to improve
energy conservation.
repairs to metal roof flashing.
Station #3 - planting of cedar hedge on property line
as per land owner's request.
- paving of rear parking lot.
- installation of venetian blinds in office
and meeting room.
Station #4 - install ceiling fans in the apparatus bay
area to improve air circulation.
- paint interior walls of apparatus bay.
Old reservoirs that were located in the Village of Newcastle were
sealed up in the interest of public safety.
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NEWCASTLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
MECHANICAL DIVISION
The mechanical division (Firefighter Graydon Brown) is responsible for
the servicing and maintenance of all powered and unpowered vehicles and
equipment, owned by the department, and the maintenance of a complete
and comprehensive history of each piece of equipment. Major mechanical
work is performed in conjunction and with the assistance of the Public
Works Department's mechanical division.
As in the past, all vehicles and apparatus are serviced on a three
month rotation basis, with engine tune ups and wheel brakes inspected
yearly.
Vehicles receive mechanical certification every three years.
In 1985 there were no major mechanical apparatus breakdowns.
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