May 24, 2106 - Crews dispatched on reported Building fire. Crews arrived to find heavy smoke coming from a patients room and exterior door. Crews advanced an 1¾ hose into structure to find the interior sprinkler system had extinguished the fire. A large amount of smoke was removed from the structure and sprinkler system was shut down and drained by FWFD. Facility staff quickly evacuated residents to a safe area outside of building. No injuries were reported. FWPD, TRAA assisted the FWFD

The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to an apartment fire in the 1800 Block of Greentree Ct. in Chapel Oaks Apartments. FWFD arrived on scene and found heavy smoke coming from two windows in a center apartment. Crews made a quick interior attack and located the fire in the kitchen on the first floor. Fire and smoke damage was contained to the apartment of origin and did not spread to adjacent apartments. A Firefighter received minor burns. The cause of the fire is under investigation by FWFD with the assistance of FWPD. FWFD was assisted by TRAA, NCE, AEP and NIPSCO.

May 22, 2016 - FWFD units responded to a reported house fire in the 1400 block of Fletcher. Upon arrival, heavy fire was seen from the front of the single story home. Crews quickly searched the home and found that it was unoccupied. Fire spread throughout the attic before it was brought under control. The fire was placed under control 20 minutes after the first crew arrived. No one was injured while fighting the fire.

May 19, 2016 - Fort Wayne firefighters responded to a house on fire in the 1400 block of Oliver Street this afternoon. Upon arrival FWFD encountered fire in the front room of the home just beginning to extend through the exterior wall. The fire was quickly brought under control and there were no injuries although a family dog perished. The fire damage was moderate but the home sustained heavy smoke damage. The fire remains under investigation at this time.

May 17, 2016 - This afternoon the FWFD responded to a house fire in the 600 block of Bradfield Dr. A 911 call from neighbor advised of smoke coming from the rear of the home. On arrival, fire units entered finding heavy smoke and encountering a small explosion from the area of the fire. The fire was contained to a bedroom and the attic above. The fire was under control 20 minutes after dispatch. One dog escaped but a cat perished. A firefighter received minor injuries but did not require treatment. The fire dept. was assisted by FWFD, Animal Control, Neighborhood Code, TRAA, NIPSCO & AEP.

May 10, 2016 - FWFD was called to an apartment fire in the 800 block of Ridgewood Dr. Fire crews arrived to find a small fire in the dryer that filled the apartment with smoke. There was a search of the apartment and the family cat was found. Fire crews along with animal control tried to revive the animal but were unable to.

 

May 9, 2016 - FWFD responded to a neighbor's report of smoke coming from a home in the  5400 block of  Smith Street. Crews arrived within three minutes and found a fire in the living room. Initial reports indicated that there may be someone at home. Rescuers on scene performed a thorough search of the house and found no one home. The fire was placed under control within 12 minutes with no injuries to civilians or firefighters. FWFD received assistance from Neighborhood Code and FWPD. The fire remains under investigation.

May 9, 2016 - Fort Wayne Fire Department units responded to a reported structure fire in the 7100 block of Winnebago Dr. First units arriving and found smoke throughout the entire house. Fire crews made an aggressive attack in the structure and confined the fire to the interior first floor. Fire crews searched the house and confirmed that everyone was out. The fire was under control in 9 minutes from the arrival of the first unit. Fire is under investigation.

May 8, 2016 - Fort Wayne Fire Units responded to a reported structure fire and first due units found that the only occupant was out of the Structure and the fire was located on the 2nd floor with some extension to the attic. Fire crews did a search of the structure and confirmed that everyone was out of the house. The fire was under control in about 9 minutes and damage was limited to a room on the 2nd floor and some of the exterior near the roof area. Fire is under investigation.

May 6, 2016 - Crews dispatched on reported house fire. Upon arrival crews found smoke coming from roof of structure. Access to the attic was gained and fire was quickly extinguished. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no injuries. Fire is under investigation.

May 23, 2015 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 1602 Wells Street “Navy Club Ship 48”. The first unit arrived in 2 minutes finding smoke coming from the rear of the building. Fire crews entered the structure and quickly located the fire and extinguished keeping it from spreading to the main part of the building. The structure was unoccupied at the time of the fire. The fire was contained to the rear portion of the building and crews remained on the scene searching for extension and ventilating the structure. The fire remains under investigation.

May 15, 2015 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to a possible structure fire at 8500 Summerset Place and the first crew arrived to find heavy flames and smoke coming from the attached garage in the front of the home. All residents were reported to be outside at the time of arrival; however crews searched and found two cats that had stayed inside. An aggressive attack brought the fire under control in 20 minutes after arrival. One firefighter received a minor injury while fighting the fire that did not require medical attention at this time. FWFD was assisted by Fort Wayne Police Department and the Three Rivers Ambulance Authority. The fire is still under investigation.

May 11, 2015 - FWFD units responded to a reported house fire in the 1900 block of Roy Street this morning. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire coming from the first floor of the home. An aggressive search was completed in an attempt to locate any persons that may be inside the home while extinguishment of the fire was completed. No people or pets were home at the time of the fire. The scene was placed under control after 16 minutes and no firefighters were injured, although the structure sustained substantial damage to the 1st floor and smoke damage throughout. The fire is still under investigation.

May 10, 2015 - The FWFD responded to a reported apartment fire at 2100 Eden St. first arriving units found smoke coming from the two story multi-unit apartment building. Firefighters used an aggressive interior attack to bring the fire under control in nine minutes. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and had self-evacuated prior to the departments arrival. The fire was contained to the kitchen area of the apartment. Unattended food on the stove is believed to be the cause of the fire.

May 8, 2015 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported apartment fire. First due crews quickly found the fire and were able to contain it to the room of origin. A search of the apartment confirmed that no occupants were home at the time of the fire. The apartment complex housed 20 units, but only the occupants of the fire apartment were displaced. The fire was placed under control in 10 minutes and no injuries were reported.The fire is still under investigation.

 

May 29, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to a possible structure fire just after midnight.  When crews arrived in the 400 block of W. Dewald they found smoke coming from the roof area of the home. Firefighters made entry and determined no one was home while locating the fire in the attic area of the two story house.  Crews quickly contained the fire and extinguished it.  No injuries were reported.  The structure sustained minor fire, water and smoke damage.  The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.   

May 27, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was called to a possible structure fire at the Old Fort (1201 Spy Run Ave.)  The first unit arrived within one minute of dispatch and found one building at the Old Fort fully involved.  An exterior attack was made to control the fire.  The building involved was a former blacksmith building and many of the tools and equipment inside were destroyed.  The building itself was saved but sustained heavy damage.  The cause of the blaze remains under investigation. 

Mayor Henry names Eric Lahey as new Fire Chief 

Fort Wayne, Ind. - Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today announced that Eric Lahey has been appointed as Fire Chief for the City of Fort Wayne.

Lahey has been with the Fort Wayne Fire Department since 1996. Most recently, Lahey has been a firefighter at Station 11 on Rudisill Boulevard. He has a passion for safety and emergency preparedness in the private sector as well and provided both consulting and instruction for Niles Safety Services in the healthcare arena. In addition, Lahey has held the positions of deputy fire chief, district chief of special operations, district chief of training and development, and captain of training.

“A commitment to public safety is a top priority of my administration,” said Mayor Henry. “Eric has the skills and experience to lead the Fort Wayne Fire Department in an efficient and effective manner. Eric is a respected and proven professional. His leadership skills and a passion for public service will serve us well.”

Fort Wayne, Ind. - Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today announced that Fire Chief Amy Biggs has submitted her resignation effective June 1.

The search for a new fire chief will begin immediately.

Biggs has served as Fire Chief since July 2012. She will remain with the Fort Wayne Fire Department returning to the rank of Captain. Biggs joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department as a firefighter in 1995. In 1999, she was promoted to Captain in the Fire Prevention Bureau and became Captain in the Operations Division in 2001, where she served for seven years, until being appointed to the position of Assistant Chief.

“I want to thank Amy for her service as Fire Chief. She’s a dedicated professional committed to protecting and serving our community,” said Mayor Henry. “I wish Amy well in her new position.”

“The experiences I’ve had during my tenure will truly be memorable for years to come,” said Fire Chief Biggs. “I stand proud to have represented the men and women of the Fort Wayne Fire Department as well as served the citizens of Fort Wayne. I look forward to my return to the Operations Division and the continued opportunity to make positive contributions in our community.”

May 17, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 3205 Euclid Ave. nearly simultaneously to another structure fire at Colerick.  Fire units approaching from the south reported to the fully involved detached garage fire in the rear alley of the Euclid address.  The fire was quickly extinguished and neighboring structures were protected from damage.  The garage and house were deemed vacant.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

May 17, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to the report of a structure fire in the area of Colerick and Plaza.  The first Engine arrived on scene and found the front of the house at 2012 Colerick on fire.  At the same time there was a garage on fire two blocks to the south.  Crews were divided to handle both fire scenes.  Crews at Colerick Street extinguished the fire while searching the home.  The house was determined to be vacant/abandoned and sustained minor fire, smoke and water damage.  This address has been the scene of two previous fires. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.

May 18, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department and Southwest Allen County Fire Department were dispatched to a possible structure fire at 3618 Ferguson Road.  The first engine arrived to find smoke coming from a ventilation system at Fort Wayne Metals wire processing facility.  A company representative on scene directed them to an area where they found the ventilation hood system on fire above a pool of potassium sulfate in water.  Crews were able to control and extinguish the fire using their ABC dry powder extinguisher.  Crews checked for extension of the fire and determined that all hazardous materials had been contained to the company's containment systems.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  No injuries were reported.

May 4, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the 4500 block of Kenilworth St.  Crews arrived on scene and found smoke and flames visible from the one story structure.  While firefighters extinguished the blaze, other crews made entry and determined all occupants, one adult and one child, had self- evacuated prior to FWFD's arrival.  No injuries were reported.  The structure sustained heavy fire, water and smoke damage.  The cause remains under investigation. 

May 3, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire in the 6200 block of Goodfellow Dr.  Fire crews arrived and found fire coming from the exterior of the two story home.  Crews were able to contain and extinguish the blaze without further extension.  No one was home at the time of the fire except the family's dog that was not injured.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

May 30, 2013 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department and its Water Rescue Team were dispatched to reports of an individual in the St. Joe River.  Witnesses stated a man entered the river and soon went underwater and did not resurface.  Although there was a language barrier, crews were able to determine where the individual went under from a witness who threw a rock in the river to indicate where the subject was last seen.  This indicator provided a good location for divers to begin searching.  Divers found the victim within four minutes of entering the water and within 10 feet of the witnesses' rock.  The victim was pulled to shore and immediate care was provided.  The subject was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.  FWPD and TRAA assisted at the scene. 

May 29, 2013 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to a possible house fire at 3726 Schele Ave. On arrival, crews found heavy smoke showing from the one story house. Occupants of the home had self-evacuated prior to FWFD's arrival. After making entry, firefighters located the fire in a bathroom with extension into the living area and attic space of the home. Crews quickly contained and extinguished the blaze.  One firefighter was treated on scene for a minor injury. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

 

May 18, 2013 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire at the corner of Stoney Ridge Place and Spring Forest Drive. On arrival crews found heavy fire venting from the attaic and garage of 202 Stoney Ridge Place. The exterior of the home at 8809 Spring Forest Drive was also on fire. Neighbors had already alerted occupants at both homes, and occupants were evacuated prior to FWFD's arrival. A quick knock-down was accomplished on the neighboring home, limiting damage to only the exterior of the structure. At the same time, multiple hose lines and a master stream nozzle were put into operation originating fire site. The fire was called under control after 15 minutes but crews remained on scene for three hours during investigation and clean-up. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature. The attached garage and two vehicles were destroyed. One firefighter was taken to the hospital for over exertion and was released later in the day.

May 17, 2013 - Unattended cooking resulted in a fire which heavily damaged a residence at 2717 Plaza Drive. The Fort Wayne Fire Department was called to the structure and arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the structure with the home's occupants already outside. They were able to direct firefighters to the location of the fire and alerted them to the presence of a dog remaining inside the basement of the structure. Firefighters quickly controlled the fire and located and evacuated the puppy to safety. No injuries were reported. The structure sustained heavy fire and smoke damage.

May 12, 2013 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 3016 Alexander Street.  First arriving crews found smoke coming from the front of the one story structure.  Firefighters entered the home and located the fire in a bedroom.  Crews quickly contained the fire and extinguished it in less than 10 minutes.   Two adults and three children were home at the time of the blaze but were able to safely self-evacuate prior to the FWFD's arrival.  One cat was rescued and returned to the owners.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

May 7, 2013 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 901 Huffman Street, a multi-unit residential building with commercial property on the first floor.  On arrival crews found heavy fire and smoke showing on the exterior of the building.  Crews made entry and were able to determine all residents had self-evacuated.  While extinguishing the blaze, there was a small explosion forcing firefighters from the structure until the gas could be shut off.  Nispco was forced to dig for a shut off point away from the fire site, as the structure's gas meter/shut off valve was involved in fire.  By Nipsco's recommendation, properties within 500 feet of the fire site were evacuated affecting six houses and 10 additional people.  Red Cross was called to assist those affected by this fire.  Once the gas was shut off, firefighters were forced to fight the fire defensively, as the structure's integrity was compromised.  It was then determined the building would be razed.  No injuries were reported.  The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.  FWPD, TRAA, Nipsco, AEP, Neighborhood Code and Red Cross assisted on the scene. 

May 29, 2012 - It took firefighters less than 15 minutes to place a house fire at 1650 Hinton Drive under control.  When crews arrived to the scene, firefighters found heavy fire on the first floor in the rear of the structure with extension to the second floor.  No one was home at the time of the blaze and no injuries were reported.  The fire's cause remains under investigation. 

May 28, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department was called to a house fire at 10628 Yorktowne Place.  Upon arrival crews found fire on the outside of the two story residential structure with its occupants already outside.  It took crews 15 minutes to contain the fire to the side wall of the home with little extension to the attic area. The home suffered moderate smoke and fire damage.  The fire started in an outside trash can after hot embers from a smoker were discarded.  No injuries were reported. 

May 25, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a house fire at 320 Lillian Ave.  Upon arrival fire crews found smoke coming from the front of the home.  Crews made entry and located the fire in the attic area of the house where it was contained and extinguished.  Two occupants were home at the time of the blaze and escaped without injury.  The fire's cause remains under investigation. 

May 25, 2012 - One person was sent to the hospital after the The Fort Wayne Fire Department was dispatched to 7313 Beaty Ave for a possible structure fire. Crews arrived to find heavy fire on the first floor between the garage and the house.  While all the homes' occupants had self-evacuated, one of the three adults and two children were transported for smoke inhalation.  It took crews nearly 30 minutes to bring the fire under control.  Additional crews were called in to help with overhaul due to the extreme weather related heat.   The home sustained heavy fire, smoke and water damage.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

May 21, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire at 6415 Hackberry Drive.  First arriving units found moderate smoke coming from the house.  After gaining entry, crews found fire in the kitchen area of the home and were able to quickly extinguish the flames.  One person was home at the time of the blaze and was able to evacuate themself along with three family pets.  The cause of the fire was accidental in nature due to cooking oil left on the stove. No injuries were reported.

May 20, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire at 1436 Taylor Street.  Upon arrival crews found fire at the rear of the home.  The fire did extend into the interior of the second floor but was quickly contained by fire crews.  The home was vacant/abandoned and no injuries were reported.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

May 18, 2012 - Fort Wayne Fire Department units were dispatched to the Sears Department store at 4201 Coldwater Road a little before midnight on a report of smoke coming from the roof.  Units arrived and forced entry to gain access to the building.  The fire was quickly located on the second floor freight elevator and extinguished.  The fire was contained and no further extension was reported.  Crews worked to remove smoke from the building and minimize any further damage.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  No injuries were reported. 

May 11, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 4410 Reed Street.  Upon arrival crews found a garage fully engulfed in flames.  Because of the close proximity, the fire did damage two adjacent structures but did not extend into either one.  There were five occupants home at the time of the blaze.  They escaped without injury.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

May 11, 2012 - The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 11110 Sycamore Hills Drive.  Upon arrival crews found several areas of the roof on fire.  Construction workers had accidentally ignited a tree on fire and the embers ignited the roof area.  The fire was quickly extinguished and did not extend further into the structure.  The homeowner was home at the time of the fire and was able to self-evacuate without injury. 

Saturday, April 30, 2011 (10:12 a.m.)  Residents called for help on Saturday morning after what they thought was a car alarm but turned out to be their smoke detector.  Residents of 1136 Bunker Hill Place found smoke coming from the second floor, exited the structure and called 911.  The Fort Wayne Fire Department responded and found fire in an upstairs room.  It was quickly extinguished.  No injuries were reported and the fire is still under investigation. 

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Chief Peter X. Kelly has announced his appointment for the Health and Safety Officer.  The swearing-in ceremony will be at 10 a.m. Monday, April 27, in City Clerk Sandy Kennedy's Office, Room 122, City-County Building, 100 East Main Street.

Captain James Noll will be promoted to District Chief of Health and Safety.  The 17-year department veteran, who has been a captain in the combat division, will oversee the Department's Health and Safety Program with increased emphasis on the Wellness Fitness Initiative and safety training.

The Honorable Mayor Thomas C. Henry and Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Chief Peter X. Kelly honored firefighters and other local heroes Monday night, March 23, during the FWFD Service Awards at the Auditorium of the Public Safety Academy.  FWFD presented awards to nine firefighters for exceptional service on-duty; one Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) Officer; and four citizens. 

All of the firefighters were recognized for saving a life at a house fire April 27, 2008, on Bowser Avenue.  Firefighters honored with Meritorious Service Awards at the ceremony include:  Captain Jeffery Berning, Firefighter Heath Bearman and Firefighter Michelle Nelson.  Firefighters receiving an Individual Commendation Award include:  Captain Matthew Peckham, Lieutenant Rich Dolsen Jr., Firefighters Tyler Bruce, Andrew Nieberding, Jon Plant and John Sierra.

Officer Keith Wallace, FWPD, received a Citizen Action Meritorious Valor Award, for performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and assisting the medics at the April 27 Bowser Street Fire.  Ben Franke was presented a Citizen Action Meritorious Award for helping his neighbors escape a fire in their home on Rolston Avenue, March 11, 2008.  Dr. Charles Coats was honored with a Citizen Action Meritorious Award for performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in saving a person's live at the Fort Wayne International Airport Terminal, March 31, 2008.  Monique Myles received a Citizen Action Meritorious Award for performing CPR on a child who had been pulled unconscious from an apartment complex swimming pool, April 27, 2008, and saving the child's life.

The City of Fort Wayne thanked all of these individuals for choosing to put others first.

Lieutenant Joel Hoffman will be promoted to the rank of Captain in the Operations Division today at 10 a.m. at the City Clerk's office. Lt. Hoffman is a nine-year veteran of the Department and has received various commendations.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department would like to announce the promotion of Captain Michael Miller to Assistant Chief of Training and Development Division. Captain Miller is a 12 year veteran of the Fort Wayne Fire Department and has a total of 21 years of experience in the fire service, having previously served as a volunteer firefighter as well as for the Auburn Fire Department prior to joining Fort Wayne's Fire Department. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2002 and has served as a Captain in the Operations Division since 2005. He has also been a member of the Technical Rescue Team since 2000.

Miller has been an instructor in the fire service for over 18 years and has worked extensively with numerous northeast Indiana fire departments in addition to Fort Wayne. "I expect Mike to be a valuable addition not only in directing the Fort Wayne Fire Department's training program but also someone that will help promote emergency response training throughout northeast Indiana in partnership with the Public Safety Academy of Northeast Indiana and the District 3 Training Council. He has always been dedicated to firefighter training and believes that good training is the backbone of any fire department," said Fire Chief Peter X. Kelly. 

Captain Miller will be sworn in as an Assistant Fire Chief on February 23, 2009 at 10:00 A.M. at the City Clerk's office.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Chief Peter X. Kelly has announced his appointment for the Health and Safety Officer.  The swearing-in ceremony will be at 10 a.m. Monday, April 27, in City Clerk Sandy Kennedy's Office, Room 122, City-County Building, 100 East Main Street.

Captain James Noll will be promoted to District Chief of Health and Safety.  The 17-year department veteran, who has been a captain in the combat division, will oversee the Department's Health and Safety Program with increased emphasis on the Wellness Fitness Initiative and safety training.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) of Allen County will conduct a 72-Hour Disaster Preparedness Challenge as part of September's National Preparedness Month.  Three public safety individuals will demonstrate disaster supply kits by "camping" outside of Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Station 10, 3122 North Anthony Boulevard to bring awareness to disaster preparedness.  The 72 hours will begin at 8 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 23 and run to 8 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 26. There will be a large clock onsite which will show the time remaining as part of the challenge.

The three participants will demonstrate three different levels of preparedness.  They all will use their Basic Emergency Supply Kits they have assembled as recommended by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at the WWW.Ready.Gov website.  The differences will be that they will each have a different supply of food to show the different ways people can prepare before a disaster strikes. 

Steve Ealing, CERT Trainer and Three Rivers Ambulance Authority Paramedic, will be using MREs (Meals Ready to Eat).  Officer Victor Hopkins, CERT Trainer and an Officer with the Allen County Police Department, will have a collection of foods he put together shopping in local stores.  FWFD Firefighter Brian Vanderbosch, representing those who have not had CERT Training, will use a completely prepared kit that can be purchased which contains the foods, tools and other supplies recommended for an individual for 72-hours.

CERT is a program that trains individuals on how to provide initial assistance during an emergency response situation, i.e., tornado, flood, ice storm, etc., until professional first responders arrive.

Captain Matt Brokaw, FWFD and Allen County CERT Director, said, "Our purpose in demonstrating this is to show everyone the type of supplies they need to have in place in case a disaster hits our area. We are showing them that a lot of these items are things they may already have and the importance of having these items in one location.  Also, if they want to buy pre-packaged materials instead of putting together their own, they can do that as well. In a true disaster, it may be difficult for the public safety officials to get to all of the areas right away and the public needs to be able to be as self-sustaining as possible until help arrives," he added.

"We invite those with questions to stop by Station 10 during the hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. during this 72-hour stay and get answers from these participants. Additional information about preparedness is available at the Allen County CERT website, www.fwachomeland.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=41&Itemid=50, or by visiting www.Ready.gov, part of the Ready Campaign of the United States Department of Homeland Security."

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) will be accepting applications for a Firefighter Recruit Class from Oct. 1-31, 2007.

The basic requirements are:

• 21 years or older by the application deadline and cannot have reached the 36th birthday prior to the completion of the Academy.
• A minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalency.
• No felony convictions.
• Must have and maintain a valid Indiana Driver's License by Academy completion.
• Must be a resident of Allen County or an Indiana county contiguous to Allen by completion of the Academy.

Applications will be available beginning Oct. 1 at the FWFD Administration Office, 307 East Murray Street; City of Fort Wayne Human Resources Department, Room 380, 1 Main Street, City-County Building; and, on the department's website http://www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org/

All applications may only be turned in at the FWFD Administration Office, 307 East Murray and must be turned in by 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 31.  There will not be any exceptions to this application deadline.  Applications will be accepted between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  There will be extended hours until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 3rd, Oct. 10th, Oct. 17th and Oct. 24 to turn in applications.

Upon turning in the application, applicants will need to pay $13 for the written exam which is part of the application process.  All questions pertaining to the written exam are taken from the study guide, which may be purchased for an additional $10.  Additional information is provided to applicants when they turn in applications.

Questions may be directed to the FWFD Administration Office by calling 427-1170 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) will promote Deputy Chief Peter Kelly to Fire Chief at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, at the Fort Wayne City Clerk's Office.

A 23-year veteran of the department, Kelly served previously as the Deputy Chief overseeing the Fire Administration and Homeland Security grants and related initiatives.  A graduate of Indiana University, Kelly received a bachelor's degree in Public Affairs.  He will now be overseeing the 390 firefighters and 12 civilian employees who provide fire, rescue and emergency medical service to the City of Fort Wayne.

Fort Wayne Fire Department and International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 124 will be out this Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 23-25, with their "Fill the Boot" Campaign to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

"Fort Wayne Firefighters love this time of year because we really enjoy interacting with our community to raise money for this important cause - the MDA," said Captain Randy Zion, Fort Wayne Fire Department Firefighter and IAFF Local 124 Chairman.  "We are asking everyone who can to drop some money in 'The Boot' when they see firefighters out collecting. This is our chance to help raise money that goes toward treatment and cures for the 43 neuromuscular diseases MDA cover," he requests.

Last year, IAFF Local 124 led in both the State and Eighth District in the amount of money collected for MDA and has done so for the past 10 years. 

Help the Fort Wayne Firefighters "Fill the Boot" for the MDA.

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 124 will host the 30th Annual Hoosier/Buckeye Softball Tournament, Saturday, Aug. 18 and Sunday, Aug. 19 at Kreager Park, North River Road.  Games start each day at 10 a.m. with the final game of the day at 4 p.m.

Admission is free for this double-elimination softball tournament featuring public service softball teams from throughout northeast Indiana and parts of Ohio.  Food will be available for purchase.

The Annual Hoosier/Buckeye Softball Tournament is the longest running softball tournament of its type in the State of Indiana.

The Honor Guard and the Pipe & Drum Corps from the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) will be participating in the 1 p.m. July 27 funeral service at Antwerp Local Schools, 303 S. Harriman Road, Antwerp, OH.  The funeral service will be for the three members of the Antwerp Emergency Medical Service (EMS) that died during a crash Friday night transporting two patients.

The FWFD Honor Guard and Pipe & Drum Corps will escort the casket for one of the EMS responders during the service while the other two will be escorted by units from the Toledo and Sydney, Ohio, fire departments.

Due to the dry conditions in the area due to lack of rainfall, Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) reminds everyone to avoid open burning as a general rule and to especially ensure that cigarettes and smoking materials are thoroughly and safely extinguished before discarding them.

FWFD Chief Tim Davie says, "No one is to kindle or maintain open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, refuse fire, or other open burning according to Fort Wayne City Code.  We also want to remind everyone that burning cigarettes that are tossed out of cars, etc., can start grass fires or mulch fires," he added.

He explains that there are two exemptions to the Open Burning Ordinance allowed under certain conditions.

1. Bonfires celebrating school pep rallies are one exemption which requires obtaining a Burn Permit from the Fort Wayne Fire Department at least 24 hours in advance of the permitted open burning.
2. Recreational camp fires for scouting or family cookout activities are allowed without a Burn Permit and are subject to the conditions listed below.

These exemptions must be subject to the following:

• A garden hose connected to a water supply, buckets, shovel, fire extinguisher or other approved fire-extinguishing equipment shall be readily available at the burn site.
• Only wood products shall be burned - no leaves, paper or trash.
• A fire shall be attended by a responsible party at all times until completely extinguished.
• If the open burning creates a smoke nuisance, or a hazardous condition exists, the open burning shall be immediately extinguished.
• A fire shall be located at least 25 feet away from any structure, fence or right of way.
• A fire shall not exceed an area three feet wide by two feet high.

Anyone who recklessly, knowingly or intentionally kindles, or maintains any open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, bonfire, refuse fire, or other open burning that damages property of another person or spreads to property of another person may be liable for criminal mischief.

Any person who maintains burning of combustible materials out of doors or open burning not permitted shall be in violation and may be fined $50.  If the violator does not appear in response to a notice issued to them within a period of 30 calendar days from the date and time shown on the notice, the penalty shall be $75.  Repeat violators will be fined.

Please take the extra time necessary to exercise safety at all times.

It is that time of year again when the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) and the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) challenge each other in the 33rd Annual Rager-Stiverson Memorial Softball Game, 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 17.  The game will be played at the Main Diamond of Turners of Fort Wayne, 3636 Parnell Avenue.  This year's game is dedicated to raising awareness and money for the new Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters Memorial, Wells and Ewing streets, just north of the St. Mary's River.

The softball game, a family-friendly event, which pits firefighters against police officers, is one of the Fort Wayne Newspapers Three Rivers Festival Annual Events. Originally played just for bragging rights, the game was dedicated in 1973 to honor Michael Thomas Rager, Fort Wayne Fire Department District Chief, and Patrolman Kenneth P. Stiverson, Fort Wayne Police Department, both of whom died in the line of duty while serving the citizens of Fort Wayne in 1972 and 1969 respectively.  The game date this year is the 38th anniversary of Patrolman Stiverson's death while serving our community.

"It's an honor to be able to celebrate the lives of these two men by having the police and fire department softball teams come together in a good-natured, fun atmosphere to meet and celebrate the men and women who serve our community every day in public service," said Capt. Chad Wagner, captain of the FWPD Team.  Capt. Andy Pfeiffer, captain of the FWFD Team, said, "It is also another opportunity to inform the public about the new Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters Memorial on land graciously donated by Jerry and Linda Vandeveer."

Besides cheering on their favorite team, the public will have the chance to make donations toward the construction of the memorial directly. Bleacher seating is available First Come-First Served. Come out and enjoy a friendly rivalry and support your Fort Wayne Fire and Police Departments.    

Four Fort Wayne Fire Department firefighters will be leaving in the next two weeks to compete in the 2007 World Police & Fire Games in Adelaide, Australia, March 16-25.  The firefighters are: Dan Newport, Bryan Peterson, Lester Sorgen and Joe Tarney.  Fort Wayne Police Officer Sonia Atienzo will travel to the games to compete in softball and Melinda Webb, a Muncie, Ind., Fire Department firefighter will be competing with Sorgen as a team in one of the golf events.

Over 8,000 international firefighters, law enforcement, customs and corrections officers will be competing in 79 sports across 50 venues over 10 days.

The FWFD firefighters, who are each paying for their trips, will be competing in two categories: Golf and Muster.  The Golf event will be played on three courses outside of Adelaide.  It is a Stroke-Play Tournament with  medals given to the top three in each of four categories, Handicap Singles (separate Men's and Women's Singles), 2-Person Unisex Handicap Team, Scratch Singles (Separate Men's & Women's Singles), and, 2-Person Unisex Scratch Team.  Sorgen and Webb will be competing in the 2-Person Unisex Handicap Competition as will Newport and Tarney who will be matched with female golfing partners from another country (not the United States).  Sorgen and Webb both won gold medals in their individual events in Indianapolis in 2001 and decided they wanted to compete as a team when their schedules allowed.

The Muster Competition consists of two events, the Bucket Brigade and the Hose Cart.  The Bucket Brigade is where the team picks up a ladder, runs to the water tower, raises the ladder to the tower and then begins filling the dump tank at the top of the tower with water from below which is being passed in buckets, hand-to-hand until the dump tank is full.  The Hose Cart is when the team is competing against the clock to complete a sequence involving running a car, connecting a hose, starting water flow and squirting down a target.

Atienzo will be competing on the Guns & Roses Team in the slow-pitch softball tournament located outside of Adelaide.

Held biennially, the World Police & Fire Games began in California in 1985.  They were hosted in Indianapolis in 2001.  Additional information about these games is available at http://www.2007wpfg.com/

Allen County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will conduct disaster response training at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, June 30, at the Fort Wayne Fire Academy, 2700 Dwenger Avenue.  The disaster will involve an F-3 tornado striking a neighborhood.

CERT is a program that trains individuals on how to provide initial assistance during an emergency response situation, i.e., tornado, flood, ice storm, etc., until professional first responders arrive.

"Our CERT members receiving basic training in first-aid and triage, light search and rescue, small fire suppression, and, disaster scene organization as well as certification in CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation)," said Capt. Matt Brokaw, Fort Wayne Fire Department and Allen County CERT Director.  "CERT is a community self-help program used in times of disaster until professionals arrive," he added. 

He explains that CERT members are trained by local professionals including fire, law enforcement, emergency medical and emergency management personnel in skills that are needed for these disaster situations.  "These individuals have completed the 28-hour CERT Basic Academy and will be tested by this drill to employ the skills they have learned," said Brokaw.  "This is why we train, so we are as prepared as possible should the need arise."

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Captain Bruce Bickley, one of the local firefighters that the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 124 sent to Charleston, SC, to attend the Memorial Service for the nine firefighters who died battling a fire there, Monday night, June 18, has taken an  active role in the funerals.  Bickley, a member of the FWFD Pipe & Drum Corps, has played or will play his bagpipes for all eight of firefighter's funerals who will be buried in South Carolina.

Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas called the Fort Wayne Fire Department to express his appreciation and the appreciation of his department for Bickley's willingness to assist these families and fellow firefighters with his actions.

Bickley, who traveled to Charleston on his own, has spent time learning about the firefighters who died in the line of duty.  He has been staying with the firefighters at Station 10 and riding along on Truck 5, the apparatus that some of the fallen firefighters rode.  He is playing in a service at the time of this release and will play for one more funeral tomorrow, Monday, June 25.

International Association of Fire Fighters Local 124 is sending four firefighters and the department Chaplain from the Fort Wayne Fire Department to Charleston, SC, to attend the Memorial Service for the nine firefighters who died battling a fire, Monday night, June 18.

Two of the firefighters will be leaving from Station 7, 1622 Lindenwood Ave., at 1 p.m. today and joining with the others at various points along the way.  They will be joining with a group of firefighters in Indianapolis to continue the trip by bus for the 10 a.m. Memorial Service, Friday, June 22 in Charleston.

Fort Wayne Fire Department joins with Fort Wayne Police Department and Three Rivers Ambulance Authority to encourage everyone to enjoy fireworks in the safest possible way.  "We recommend for everyone's safety that they go to fireworks presented by trained professionals," said District Chief Jim Murua, Fort Wayne Fire Department Fire Marshal.  "If they are going to purchase fireworks for private use, we encourage them to use fireworks responsibly and take safety precautions."

A new City Ordinance governing the use of fireworks is in effect in Fort Wayne which is similar to Indiana's State Fireworks Law which does allow adults age 18 and older to purchase fireworks for use in Fort Wayne on the user's property, the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks, or at a special discharge location designated by the State Fire Marshal. In the City of Fort Wayne, the fireworks may be used only between 5 p.m. and two hours after dusk (approximately 11 p.m.) from June 29 - July 3 and July 5 - 9. On the day before Memorial Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, the day before Labor Day and Labor Day, the hours are extended from 10 a.m. - to midnight.  For New Year's Eve, the hours are 10 a.m. Dec. 31 until 1 a.m., Jan. 1.

"According to a report from the Indiana State Department of Health, in 2006 55% of all fireworks-related injuries in Indiana involved children and adolescents. They represent only a quarter of Indiana's population so this is a concern. Of these injuries, 73% of cases reported burn injuries with burns to the hands being the most common type of burn injury," said Murua.  He explained that of all the injuries in 2006, 23% required either hospital admission or specialized care for burns or eye injuries. One in four of those injuries involved the eyes with 97% of those injuries due to not using any eye protection. "Fireworks injuries are often severe," he added.

Safety is always the key to any activity and this includes fireworks.  For your safety, as well as that of your loved ones, neighbors and the community, the Fort Wayne Fire Department suggests you enjoy your fireworks at a professional event.  Information regarding Fort Wayne's new Fireworks Law is available at http://www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org, the Internet Site for Fort Wayne Fire Department.

Additional fireworks safety information includes:

Make sure to have a responsible adult supervise all fireworks activities.  Do not let children play with or light any fireworks.

Use fireworks in an open area away from buildings or anything combustible.  Keep your audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.  Be aware of the wind direction and plan accordingly.

Safety glasses should be used by those lighting the fireworks or in close proximity to the fireworks.

Have a hose, bucket of water or water supply, or a fire extinguisher nearby and pay attention to the wind direction.

 

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) and other area fire departments are participating in the 2007 International Fire and EMS Safety Stand Down, which began yesterday, June 17 and continues through Saturday, June 23, 2007. The Stand Down is sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the IAFC.

Wednesday, June 20, from 7:30-8:30 a.m., FWFD will host a Wellness Fitness Workout at its Fire Academy, 2700 Dwenger Avenue, Fort Wayne.  The 2007 theme for the International Stand Down is "Ready to Respond" and several of the area departments believe that personal health and wellness/fitness are an important part of being "Ready to Respond".  FWFD will have several of its Peer Fitness Trainers on site to conduct the workout and offer tips to firefighters on reaching their goals for personal health and wellness/fitness.

Other area departments that may have participants at this event include Southwest Fire District, New Haven/Adams Township Fire Department and Huntertown Fire Department.

FWFD's Wellness Initiative Slogan is "Better Health, Better Service" and this is another way to demonstrate this philosophy to our community.

 

The Fort Wayne Fire Department will be participating in the 2007 International Fire and EMS Safety Stand Down, being held the week of June 17-23, 2007. The Stand Down is sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the IAFC.

"We are looking forward to participating in the Stand Down," said Chief Tim Davie. "Safety is paramount in all that we do day in and day out so taking the time to join with our fellow firefighters in this safety review is necessary to learn all that we can to keep our firefighters and community as safe as possible."

The Stand Down, themed "Ready to Respond," will focus on preparing firefighters and EMS personnel for their daily duties by reviewing their training and the proper use of equipment to ensure safe response, mitigation and return from all emergency situations. Failure to remain cautious can cause routine activities to become hazardous, as has been shown in the many fire service and emergency medical service line-of-duty deaths and injuries.

In 2006, 105 firefighters died in the line of duty; already this year, 45 have been lost. The purpose of the Stand Down is to reduce these deaths and injuries by calling attention to safety practices and improving them. Stand downs have been used by the military for years to correct issues that have been identified as a problem throughout the ranks.

"We will be reviewing safety in all aspects including in regards to our use of apparatus and personal protective equipment as well as personal health and remembering those who have died in the line of duty. Something new this year will be the kick-off of FWFD's Biggest Loser Contest. Our Peer Fitness Instructors will work with those interested in participating on steps to follow from exercise to diet," said Chief Davie. He added, "We truly believe in the slogan of our FWFD Wellness Initiative, 'Better Health, Better Service'." 

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) is seeking information regarding the fire, Tuesday night, June 12, at the Playground of Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 1500 West State Street.  FWFD knows that there were a couple of juveniles with fireworks in the area and would like to talk with these juveniles.  FWFD is asking that these juveniles or anyone with information regarding these juveniles, contact the department by calling 427-1317.

R. Nelson Snider High School Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) is hosting a mock crash at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 2 at the high school, 4600 Fairlawn Pass, Fort Wayne. This Pre-Prom activity, featuring a mock traffic crash featuring response from Parkview Samaritan Helicopter, Fort Wayne City Communications, Fort Wayne Fire and Police departments, as well as Three Rivers Ambulance Authority demonstrates what can happen when a student makes the choice to combine drinking alcoholic beverages and operating a vehicle.  In this case, the result will be a mock fatal wreck and a charge of vehicular homicide and Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).

"We have been trying to alternate how we present this so that the message doesn't become routine," said Pat Christie, SADD Sponsor and School Nurse. "Last year we had the Victim Impact Trial with testimony from teen and adult character witnesses  as well as the 'victim's' family in front of a judge with attorneys for the prosecution and defense. Through these reenactments, we are able to show students the impact a decision like this has and the ripple effect on so many lives," she added. 

SADD's philosophy is that young people, empowered to help each other, are the most effective force in prevention. Since the founding of SADD over two decades ago, teenage deaths due to drinking and driving have decreased by 60 percent nationally. "Contract for Life" and "friends don't let friends drive drunk" are now part of the teenage vernacular. Snider's Prom will be Saturday, May 5th.

The Allen County Juvenile Firesetters Task Force, a coalition of professionals designed to reduce juvenile arsons, intervene and recommend treatment for juvenile firesetters, and, promote the awareness of juvenile firesetting as a community health issue, will  host a seminar on juvenile firesetting on Thursday, May 3.  The seminar, "Hot Topic: Juvenile Firestarters - What To Look For, What To Do", will feature nationally known juvenile firesetter expert Dr. David Kolko from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.  The St. Joseph Community Health Foundation is the sponsor for this event.

The seminar is intended to raise awareness of the juvenile firesetting problem in communities and to assist the professionals in the community to better identify, assess, and treat these juveniles and their families.  The seminar will be held at the Landmark Convention Center, 6222 Ellison Road, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3.  The fee is $35 and continuing education hours are offered.

There will be a free community awareness session from 6-8 p.m., May 3, at the Primetime Center, 3701 South Calhoun Street.  Please call 427-1278 for more information or to register for the seminar.

Come join firefighters and professionals from throughout the state who will be attending this seminar.

As the weather improves and people begin their yard work, they might be considering burning leaves, twigs or trash that have accumulated on their lawns.  Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) reminds everyone to avoid open burning as a general rule.

FWFD Fire Marshal Jim Murua says, "No one is to kindle or maintain open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, refuse fire, or other open burning according to Fort Wayne City Code."

He explains that there are two exemptions allowed under certain conditions.

1. Bonfires celebrating school pep rallies are one exemption which requires obtaining a Burn Permit from the Fort Wayne Fire Department at least 24 hours in advance of the permitted open burning.
2. Recreational camp fires for scouting or family cookout activities are allowed without a Burn Permit and are subject to the conditions listed below.

These exemptions must be subject to the following:

• A garden hose connected to a water supply, buckets, shovel, fire extinguisher or other approved fire-extinguishing equipment shall be readily available at the burn site.
• Only wood products shall be burned - no leaves, paper or trash.
• A fire shall be attended by a responsible party at all times until completely extinguished.
• If the open burning creates a smoke nuisance, or a hazardous condition exists, the open burning shall be immediately extinguished.
• A fire shall be located at least 25 feet away from any structure, fence or right of way.
• A fire shall not exceed an area three feet wide by two feet high.

Anyone who recklessly, knowingly or intentionally kindles, or maintains any open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, bonfire, refuse fire, or other open burning that damages property of another person or spreads to property of another person may be liable for criminal mischief.

Any person who maintains burning of combustible materials out of doors or open burning not permitted shall be in violation and may be fined $50.  If the violator does not appear in response to a notice issued to them within a period of 30 calendar days from the date and time shown on the notice, the penalty shall be $75.  Repeat violators will be fined.

Please take the extra time necessary to exercise safety at all times.

The Honorable Mayor Graham Richard and Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Chief Tim Davie honored firefighters and other local heroes Wednesday night, March 28, during the FWFD Service Awards at the City Council Chambers of the City County Building.  FWFD presented its first Retiree of the Year Award posthumously to Edward Mahrt who died in late December 2006.  Mahrt retired from the department in 1995 and had served on the board of directors for both the Firefighters Museum and the Fire Police City County Federal Union.  Linda Mahrt accepted the award on his behalf along with several members of their family.

Firefighters honored with Meritorious Service Awards at the ceremony include Captain Ron Hamm who helped rescue an injured individual trapped in a burning car following a crash in January, 2005.  Firefighter James Lemmel prevented water from reaching a magnesium fire in April, 2005, that might have caused an explosion.  

Pam Wolfe, a part-time civilian employee at the Survive Alive House at Safety Village was presented with a Community Service Award for going above and beyond in working with the building sponsors at Safety Village and future classroom/office construction at the site.

Lutheran Health Network received a Corporate Meritorious Service Award for providing a grant and working with FWFD to provide fire and burn prevention safety information in multiple languages.  Parkview YMCA was presented with an Organizational Meritorious Service Award when several of its staff members and a member responded when a member suffered a heart attack at the facility in May, 2006.  An automatic external defibrillator was used as well as rescue breathing to help the individual's heart start again and regain breathing.  Receiving a Community Service Award were Parkview YMCA's Clint Kugler, executive director, Kelly Alger, Denise Hamed and Carla Wearley, as well as YMCA member William Hardy.

Also honored with a Community Service Award were Mark Augsburger, Teresa King and Anthony Steele who witnessed and responded to a vehicle crash in which the mother was seriously injured and trapped in the car while one of her children died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The firefighter who nominated the last three honorees used a phrase that can be attributed to all of the honorees in writing, "They unselfishly chose to participate in" the events for which they were honored.  The City of Fort Wayne thanked them for choosing to put others first.

Following an extensive investigation by the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), insurance investigators for the National Magnesium & Aluminum Foundry, Inc., and, Barker & Herbert Analytical Laboratories, Inc., which supervised the testing of several items from inside the structure, the fire August 1, 2006, at National Magnesium & Aluminum Foundry, Inc., 4817 Industrial Road, is being ruled undetermined.

The initial fire was believed to have started in the back part of the structure.  The fire, through its progression, eventually reached a finishing oven and miscellaneous gas cylinders located in the general area causing an explosion.  Due to the extensive damage caused by the explosion, the exact point of origin and the initial cause of the fire remain unclear.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) donated two fire engines today at 10 a.m. to two volunteer fire departments at the FWFD Administration Office, 307 East Murray Street.  These departments are Hudson, Ind., Volunteer Fire Department and Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department, Columbia City, Ind.  FWFD recently completed its purchase of new fire engines to replace engines that had been in service for a number of years.  Representatives from both Hudson and Washington Township accepted the fire engine donations on behalf of their respective departments.

"We are glad that these engines will continue to be used in providing fire protection service to the Hudson community and those in Washington Township," said FWFD Chief Timothy Davie.  "While we are using our new engines toward achieving Mayor Graham Richard's goal for Fort Wayne to be the safest city of its size in the country, these two areas are benefiting from a newer piece of equipment that will help make their communities safer," he added as he gave the keys to the new engines to the members of the Hudson and Washington Township departments that came to Fort Wayne to pick up the fire engines.

Hudson Fire Chief Bryan Warstler said, "I would like to thank the Fort Wayne Fire Department and the City of Fort Wayne for this donation. This truck is greatly appreciated. This truck may have far-reaching impact for the residents of Hudson as it may lower our ISO fire insurance rating, thereby reducing our taxpayer's costs.  Closer to OSHA and NFPA standards than our 1980 truck, it improves the safety of the firemen who respond to our community. "

Washington Township Fire Chief Jeremy Hammel said, "On behalf of the Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department, I want to thank the Fort Wayne Fire Department and the City of Fort Wayne for their generosity in donating this engine to our department. I would also like to personally thank Chief Tim Davie and Assistant Chief Tyrone Davie for all of their assistance during this process.  The addition of this engine to our fleet will greatly improve our ability to provide adequate fire protection to our area. Due to the high cost of fire apparatus, we had not been able to purchase such an engine for our relatively small community. Now, due to the generosity of the Fort Wayne Fire Department and the City of Fort Wayne, we have finally completed this much needed improvement for our department and made Washington Township a safer place."

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) hosted its graduation ceremony today for 20 new firefighters.  Participating in the graduation ceremony at Southside High School's Auditorium today were Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard, FWFD Fire Chief Tim Davie and City Clerk Sandy Kennedy.

These recruits successfully completed their 18 weeks of training at the FWFD Academy and will now continue their training alongside firefighters from the 18 stations that serve the City of Fort Wayne.  Chief Davie said, "We are excited to have these young men begin their careers as Fort Wayne firefighters.  They have demonstrated a lot of enthusiasm and a desire to work for our community in making Fort Wayne the safest city of its size in the country."

There are several members of this recruit class who are following in the footsteps of their fathers or brothers as Fort Wayne firefighters.

Assistant Chief Ron Privett, who oversees FWFD's Academy, said these recruits will now take the training they have had and apply it in the field.  "They will be working on a rotation basis spending time at several stations throughout their three-year journeyman cycle absorbing the hands-on lessons from the veteran firefighters.  They are graduating today to the next level of training - the day-to-day training that comes from helping those who need our assistance," Privett added.

Graduates included:  Merrell Arrington, Brandon Bainter, Erick Baker, Willie Burton, Jeremy Elder, Scott Hinton, Matthew Klaus, Eric Lamb, Nathan Landis, Todd Martinez, Nathaniel Mills, Brent Peterson, Charlie Phan, Chad Poling, Ryan Preston, Corey Privett, Keith Roddy, Bryan Sorgen, Jeffery Vanderweele and Michael Venable.

Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard, Fort Wayne Fire Department Chief Timothy Davie and Fort Wayne Police Department Chief Rusty York accepted a $25,000 donation today from Wal-Mart to be used for the Safety Village, 1270 South Phoenix Parkway.   The check was presented by John Wolf, Wal-Mart's District Manager, at the Wal-Mart Southtown Centre, 7502 Southtown Crossing.

"Area children have learned important fire and traffic safety lessons at Safety Village," said Mayor Richard.  "These funds will help us continue with lifelong lessons for children as we work to be a safer community," he added. 

Chief Davie said the Safety Village is the beginning step for many in the prevention and safety lessons they will carry with them for life.  He noted, "We thank Wal-Mart for this generous investment in the future of Safety Village.  We have Safety Village right next to the Public Safety Academy showing our community that we are committed to the latest safety lessons and training for all ages.  Some of these children will take the lessons learned at Safety Village and apply them down the road when they study at the Public Safety Academy to be a firefighter, police officer or public safety provider."

John Wolf said," As part of our commitment to helping increase awareness about safety practices and preparedness in our community, Wal-Mart is proud to partner with Safety Village to teach our children safe practices and to be prepared for the unexpected."

The Safety Village has been in operation since May 1991 and offers children the opportunity to learn about traffic safety steps such as crossing the street as well as fire safety steps like how to get out of a "burning" house and how to make a 9-1-1 emergency call.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) introduced six new American LaFrance engines at a Memorial Coliseum news conference today.  Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard joined Fire Chief Timothy Davie, other city officials and dignitaries as well as American LaFrance representatives at the event which featured the six engines the FWFD will put into service in November.

The six American LaFrance engines will replace older fire engines already in service throughout the city.  These engines are the second part of a two-phase purchasing contract that the City of Fort Wayne has with American LaFrance.  Two ladder trucks were also part of this two-phase purchase.  The total contract was for 12 new engines and two ladder trucks.

"We are pleased to introduce these new, innovative fire engines to the community," said Mayor Richard.  "We are committed to making Fort Wayne the safest city of its size in the country," he added.

Chief Davie said the six new engines and one ladder truck will complement the apparatus currently employed by the FWFD.  "These engines will be replacing units that are more than 9-12 years old.  We are glad that we will be able to use these engines to serve our city," he said.

The new engines will be going to Station 4, 4130 Lahmeyer Road; Station 5, 5801 Bluffton Road; Station 7, 1622 Lindenwood Avenue; Station 8, 6035 Rothman Road; Station 12, 6901 South Anthony Boulevard; and, Station 13, 6272 North Clinton Street.  The new ladder truck will be going to Station 1, 419 East Main Street.  The first six engines purchased under this contract went to Stations 9, 10, 16, 17, 18 & 19 respectively in May, 2005.  The ladder truck went to Station 19.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) announces its new Public Information Officer (PIO), Susan Banta.  Banta will serve as a civilian PIO providing media, corporate and community relations as well as events planning.

Banta's work experience includes serving as Region Corporate Communications Manager for Indiana Michigan Power/American Electric Power, Highway Safety Specialist for U.S. Dept. of Transportation/National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and, Public Information Specialist for the Indiana State Police.  She is a graduate of Ball State University, Muncie, Ind.

"I am thrilled to have this opportunity to serve the men and women of the Fort Wayne Fire Department and the City of Fort Wayne," said Banta.  "My work will be to communicate the accomplishments of Chief Tim Davie and the FWFD team as well as their dedication to making Fort Wayne as safe as possible," she added.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) reminds everyone to avoid open burning as a general rule.

FWFD Fire Marshall Christine Bowers says, "No one is to kindle or maintain open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, refuse fire, or other open burning according to Fort Wayne City Code."

She explains that there are two exemptions allowed under certain conditions

1. Bonfires celebrating school pep rallies are one exemption which requires obtaining a Burn Permit from the Fort Wayne Fire Department at least 24 hours in advance of the permitted open burning.
2. Recreational camp fires for scouting or family cookout activities are allowed without a Burn Permit and are subject to the conditions listed below.

These exemptions must be subject to the following:

A garden hose connected to a water supply, buckets, shovel, fire extinguisher or other approved fire-extinguishing equipment shall be readily available at the burn site.

Only wood products shall be burned - no leaves, paper or trash.

A fire shall be attended by a responsible party at all times until completely extinguished.

If the open burning creates a smoke nuisance, or a hazardous condition exists, the open burning shall be immediately extinguished.

A fire shall be located at least 25 feet away from any structure, fence or right of way.

A fire shall not exceed an area three feet wide by two feet high.

Anyone who recklessly, knowingly or intentionally kindles, or maintains any open burning consisting of a trash fire, leaf fire, bonfire, refuse fire, or other open burning that damages property of another person or spreads to property of another person may be liable for criminal mischief.

Any person who maintains burning of combustible materials out of doors or open burning not permitted shall be in violation and may be fined $50.  If the violator does not appear in response to a notice issued to them within a period of 30 calendar days from the date and time shown on the notice, the penalty shall be $75.  Repeat violators will be fined.

Please take the extra time necessary to exercise safety at all times.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Scuba Team will conduct its All Shift Dive Team Training at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 17 at Reservoir Park, corner of Clinton Street and Creighton Avenue.  FWFD Scuba trains throughout the year but usually does so on the three shift days.  This training combines all of the divers in one training opportunity.

The divers will use the pond at Reservoir Park to practice searching for and retrieving items.  These items have been discarded in the pond and the divers will bring them out of the pond either to be recycled, if possible, or thrown away, thus helping the environmental balance within the pond.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) is joining with the American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana, the Northeast Indiana Burn Council and the St. Joseph Regional Burn Center to urge everyone to Prevent Cooking Fires: Watch What You Heat. This is the theme for Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 8-14, 2006. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the theme annually for this national campaign to raise public awareness of fire safety. The week marks the anniversary of the 1871 Great Chicago Fire.  These organizations will kick off their campaign with a news conference Monday, Oct. 9 at the Culinary Arts School at Fort Wayne Community School's Anthis Career Center, 1200 South Barr Street, Fort Wayne.

In promoting the cooking safety theme, Assistant Chief Christine Bowers, FWFD Fire Marshal, provides three important steps to help avoid cooking fires. "First, never leave cooking food unattended," she says. "Second, be sure to turn off the oven and stove burners when you are finished cooking. The third step is to use either the lid to a pan, baking soda or a fire extinguisher to put out a grease fire." She adds that water should not be used on a grease fire.

These four organizations will be involved in multiple activities to promote cooking safety and fire prevention.

The Fire Prevention Week Cooking Safety Messages are also being shared through radio and television Public Service Announcements as well as on City TV Comcast Channel 58.

Fort Wayne Mayor Graham Richard has proclaimed Oct. 8-14 as Fire Prevention Week in Fort Wayne and the proclamation will be presented at the Oct. 9 News Conference at Anthis.

The Fort Wayne Neighborhood Association Presidents received Fire Prevention Week Cooking Safety information they will share at their association meetings throughout October.

The WOWO Fire Drill will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11 at St. John the Baptist School. 

Additional cooking safety and fire prevention information is also available at http://www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org/, the website for the Fort Wayne Fire Department; www.northeastin.redcross.org, the website for American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana; www.neinbc.org, the website for the Northeast Indiana Burn Council; and www.stjoehospital.com, the website for the St. Joseph Regional Burn Center.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) hosts the Fifth Annual Fort Wayne/Allen County Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 9 at FWFD Station 1, 419 East Main Street, Fort Wayne.  We will be honoring 16 Firefighters who have died in the line of duty serving Fort Wayne and Allen County.

This year's speakers include:

• Mayor Graham Richard, City of Fort Wayne
• Chief Timothy Davie, Fort Wayne Fire Department
• Tom Hanify, President of the Indiana Professional Firefighters Union
• Bishop John M. D'Arcy, Bishop of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
• Family Members of Fallen Firefighters 

The ceremony usually lasts about one hour and will include recognition of the 16 firefighters who died in the line of duty.  Fifteen of the firefighters who died were serving the Fort Wayne Fire Department.  One firefighter, Harry Stapleton, was serving the Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department, now part of Southwest Allen County Fire Department. 

These firefighters are listed below along with the year in which they died.  They are: Joseph Bahlinger, 1924; William Bandt, 1928; John Fleischman, 1916; Thomas Hazelett, 1936; Henry Hilbrecht, 1925; William Himmelein, 1936; Louis Hensel, 1910; Fredrick Hilsman, 1871; Edgar Miller, 1952; Michael Rager, 1972; Harry Stapleton, 1975; Raymond Steup, 1948; Laverne Strodel, 1947; Joseph Talarico, 1952; Roscoe Wehr, 1931; and, Charles Winkelmeyer,1908.

International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 124 will host the 29th Annual Hoosier-Buckeye Softball Tournament, Saturday, Aug. 19 and Sunday, Aug. 20 at Kreager Park, North River Road.  Games start each day at 10 a.m. with the final game of the day at 4 p.m.

Admission is free for this double-elimination softball tournament featuring public service softball teams from throughout northeast Indiana and parts of Ohio.  Food will be available for purchase and there will be raffle prizes available with all proceeds going to the Children's Burn Camp.

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) Scuba Team and the NISAR (Northern Indiana Search and Rescue) Team will train together at 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 26 at a private lake behind FWFD Station 5, 5801 Bluffton Road.  The focus of the training will be the use of NISAR's search dogs to help pin-point the location of drowning or near-drowning victims.

"We are looking forward to training with NISAR and their search dogs," said Battalion Chief Brian Meeks, FWFD Special Operations.  "The chance to practice with this group which covers all of northern Indiana, allows FWFD to prepare for those incidences in which we would be working with NISAR to familiarize ourselves with their equipment and processes and them familiarizing themselves with our equipment and processes.  This collaboration helps strengthen our response to these types of incidences."

NISAR will be performing other Search and Rescue training activities as well throughout the day. 

Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) will participate in many of the neighborhood association and community groups’ 23rd Annual National Night Out events, Tuesday, Aug. 1 throughout Fort Wayne.  FWFD is proud to be a part of the National Night Out activities in our community which promote crime prevention while strengthening neighborhood spirit through police-community partnerships.

Everyone is encouraged to turn on their porch lights, lock their doors and meet their neighbors at these community events.

Canterbury Green: FWFD will take part in the event at Canterbury Green Apartments, 2727 Canterbury Blvd., from 6-8 p.m.  

Colony Park Addition: Activities for Colony Park Addition, Concordia and Colony Drive, will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include FWFD.  

Northeast Area Partnership: FWFD Scuba Team will have its Rescue Boat at Lakeside Park, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. as part of the Northeast Area Partnership event. 

Northwest Area Partnership: Franke Park Pavilion, Franke Park,  will be the site of the Northwest Area Partnership’s activities which begin at 5:45 p.m. FWFD will be there with an arson investigation dog as well as SADAR the Fire Dog. SADAR is an acronym for Stop and Drop and Roll. 

Southwest Partnership: Events for the Southwest Partnership will occur at the Sears Pavilion at Foster Park, across from Quimby Village from 6-8 p.m.  SADAR will be there at 7 p.m. 

Tower Heights Neighborhood Association: Tower Heights Neighborhood Association will have its event at FWFD Station 7, 1622 Lindenwood Ave., from 7-8:30 p.m. 

West Central Neighborhood Association: International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 124 will offer free hot dogs and hamburgers while supplies last from 6-8 p.m. at 1405 Broadway. This will be an opportunity to meet their neighbors in the West Central Neighborhood where they are in the process of restoring Old Fire Station 5 as their Union Headquarters. 

Willow Creek Crossing Apartments: FWFD will be part of the activities at the Willow Creek Crossing Apartments, 7501 Lakeridge, from 5-7 p.m. 

Fort Wayne Fire Department joins with Fort Wayne Police Department and Three Rivers Ambulance Authority to encourage everyone to enjoy fireworks in the safest possible way.  "We recommend for everyone's safety that they go to fireworks presented by trained professionals," said Assistant Chief Christine Bowers, Fort Wayne Fire Department Fire Marshal.  "If they are going to purchase fireworks for private use, we encourage them to use fireworks responsibly and take safety precautions."

A new State Law governing the use and sale of fireworks is in effect in Indiana which does allow adults age 18 and older to purchase fireworks for use in Indiana on the user's property, the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks, or at a special discharge location designated by the State Fire Marshal. The fireworks may be used only between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. except on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Year's Eve when the hours are extended to midnight.

"In 2004, 52% of all fireworks-related injuries in Indiana involved children and adolescents. They represent only a quarter of Indiana's population so this is a concern. These injuries most frequently were burns to the hands caused by sparklers," said Bowers.  She explained that of all the injuries in 2004, 25% required either hospital admission or specialized care for burns or eye injuries. One in five of those injuries involved the eyes with 88% of those injuries due to not using any eye protection. "Fireworks injuries are often severe," she added.

Safety is always the key to any activity and this includes fireworks.  For your safety, as well as that of your loved ones, neighbors and the community, the Fort Wayne Fire Department suggests you enjoy your fireworks at a professional event.  Information regarding Indiana's new Fireworks Law is available at www.fortwaynefiredepartment.org, the Internet Site for Fort Wayne Fire Department.

Additional fireworks safety information includes:

• Make sure to have a responsible adult supervise all fireworks activities.  Do not let children play with or light any fireworks.
• Use fireworks in an open area away from buildings or anything combustible.  Keep your audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.
• Safety glasses should be used by those lighting the fireworks or in close proximity to the fireworks.
• Have a hose, bucket of water or water supply, or a fire extinguisher nearby and pay attention to the wind direction. 

Fort Wayne Fire and Police departments encourage everyone in Fort Wayne to celebrate Halloween safely.  The "official" Trick-or-Treating hours in Fort Wayne will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 31 as established by the Fort Wayne Police Department.  The Fort Wayne Fire Department will have candy for children trick-or-treaters at the 18 fire stations throughout the city while supplies last.

"We enjoy having the children come and visit the stations so they can meet their firefighter neighbors and celebrate in a safe and fun environment," said Fire Chief Pete Kelly.  "We also want to thank the partnering companies and organizations: Scott's Food & Pharmacy, Kroger, Walgreens, Gordon Food Service (GFS), Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Northeast Area Partnership and Kmart which provided the candy for the firefighters to give to the children."

Fort Wayne Fire and Police departments hope everyone celebrates Halloween safely.

     Imagine running the stairs at the Three Rivers Apartments.  Now imagine running those stairs carrying a 42-lb hose pack, hoisting a 45-lb donut roll (not the kind you eat) to the top of the tower and then sprinting back down the stairs to continue with the other portions of the drill all while wearing full bunker gear and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).  These are the real-life tasks that compose the Scott Firefighter Combat Challenge® and a team from the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) qualified recently for the World Championships which will be in Las Vegas, NV.