Obstacle CoursePhotos by Marcia Soppe

You may have seen several fi re trucks going around in what seemed to be circles on March 31. Firefi ghters were actually completing an obstacle course required to complete their Fire Apparatus Operator to be able to drive the fi re trucks.

the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com

April 2012 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

Photo by Sheryl Drost

House FirePages 6 &7

Spring Dinner Page 10

Mother Alms taking care of her boys!

Fire monster fi ghts back!

On guard!

Hey Morgan, did they say left or right?Thanks for the donuts and coffee Mother Alms!

Station Funnies!

Thank you!

Birthdays

April 10th Colleen Bloyer22nd Brett Parrish ‘21st’24th Paul Stanphill25th Ryan Sarver ‘21st’29th Snoopy ‘90th’

May1st Dan Gunderson11th Marcia Soppe13th Josh Hoffl and16th Chuck Schoonover20th John Bunger23rd Rob Lukowski31st Jordan Stark

Total Calls for 2012

648

Firehouse Scene The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Prot. Dist.

Editor-in-Chief - Don ShoevlinEditor & Layout - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month. www.harlemroscoefi re.comE-mail submissions to Sheryl:hrfdsdrost@gmail.com

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

Spring has sprung; I do believe it is safe to say. I sit here day dreaming (don’t tell the bosses) and I fi nd it hard to believe that this month; a year will have already passed since the wedding of my daughter Michelle. Where does the time go? I go from two weddings in 2011 to

the arrival of more grandchildren in 2012. Just a great example of how life is so wonderful and precious.

The men and woman of the department held another successful Spring Dinner. Of course its success would not have happened without your support. Thank you to everyone who had an opportunity to attend. The weather was great and the fi refi ghters did a fantastic job. The preliminary numbers I was told is that we served over 1500 meals.

The warmer weather has many of us out cleaning our yards from the winter season. Remember there are burning ordinances in place from the boards of the County and Villages. If you are unsure of the ordinance, you can call our business phone line (623-7867) and we will assist you based upon where you live. When burning please be cautious and courteous of your neighbors.

As we come to the end of our fi scal year I look back on some of our accomplishments as well as look forward to what needs we will continue to have, so that we continue providing excellent service to our communities. Our roster of dedicated fi refi ghters continues to grow. Our fi refi ghter’s commitment to the department and the demands put on them continue to grow as well. I assure you we will keep a watchful eye on our day-to-day operations and expenses without compromising on safety and the well-being of our district. We will continue to apply for grants to assist us in the purchasing of equipment, building upgrades, and personnel protective clothing.

Thank you all for your continued support to the men and women of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District. Remember to check out our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com to keep up with the progress of the department and individuals. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me or stop by if I can be of any assistance.

RoRo ExpoPhotos by Marcia Soppe

Harlem-Roscoe Fire personnel participated in the Annual RoRo Expo held at the Hononegah High School on March 10 & 11. Personnel manned a booth passing out safety materials and giving blood pressure checks. They also joined Rockton Fire in a pancake breakfast fundraiser at the expo and raised $550 for the ‘I Am Me’ Burn Camp.

Firefi ghters Ron Klaman, John Donovan and Lt. Doug Wolfe prepare pancakes for the pancake breakfast fundraiser.

Firefi ghter John Barth mans the informational booth.

Sparky was a big hit with the kids at the expo.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Gone,But not forgotten

Some people come into our lives,And quickly go.

Some stay awhile andleave footprints in our hearts.

And, we are never, ever the same.

Firefi ghter Micah Anderson’s grandmother, Nancy Wilson from Rockton, IL passed away on March 25.

Firefi ghter Josh Hoffl and’s grandfather, Billy Stipp from Arvada, Colorado passed away March 25.

Dispatcher Carmella Young’s brother, Dave Pixler from Bagley MN passed away on March 22.

Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Anderson, Hoffl and and Young family and friends.

oscar & dean presley

Come celebrate retired Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief Oscar Presley and his wife Dean’s 50th wedding anniversary. Their children, John and Marcie, are hosting an Open House for their parents. All are welcome!

When: Sunday, April 22, 2012Where: Willowbrook School, 6605 Prairie Hill Rd. So. Beloit, Il. 61080Time: 1:00- 4:00 pm

***sandwiches, salads, & desserts will be served***

Oscar & Dean are requesting no gifts… but if you would like, please bring in non-perishable food items they could donate to a local food pantry.

Guy ‘Snoopy’ StirtsApril 29, 1922

The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3

/ 03/17/12 Hononegah Rd. 03/31/12 Mutual Aid to North Park Fire - Eddington

03/10/12 N. Alpine Rd.

03/09/12 Hwy 251 03/30/12 Perryville Rd.

Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

03/15/12 Hwy 251 03/15/12 I-90

/ 03/31/12 I-90 Fatal

www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Sping Dinner Fundraiser a Success!By Chief Don Shoevlin

Thank you to everyone who attended our Firefi ghter’s Association Annual Spring Dinner Fundraiser on March 24.

We served over 1500 dinners that evening, between dining in, carryout and delivery. Words cannot explain the feelings or gratifi cation we hold for your continuous support that we receive.

I also must thank all of the fi refi ghters for the untiring efforts and hard work to its success. They continue to rise to the task and settle for nothing less than a complete and successful outcome.

I would also like to say a special thank you to our fi re personnel’s family and friends as well as the Scout troops that helped us with the dinner: Deb Alms, Charlotte Alms, Jenny Anderson’s daughters Becca and Katy, Deann Bergeron, Michelle Bergeron, Megan Bernhard, Cody Bush, Amy Daughenbaugh, Carol Donovan with daughter Chelsea and Corie, Peggy Davenport and daughter Taelor and friend Allison, Anna Eich, Melissa Harding, Michael Harwood, Jennifer Jensen, Jodi Klaman and sons Michael and Christopher, Taylor and Addison Lukowski, Christy Morris and son Nathan, Jane Quast, Brenna Schafman, Tammy Shoevlin, Carolyn Wolfe and Girl Scout Troop 3030 and Cadette Troops 3454 and 3387.

“My father, Michael Harwood, volunteered to help at the Spring Dinner and he was there pouring coffee and water for everyone and never once sat down to eat. He’s 70 years old and he was a FF/EMT for many years. He had a blast talking to all the other fi refi ghters and employees, and citizens alike. I’m just proud, given his age and health, that he’s still up for this. Thanks Dad!” Firefi ghter Justin Harwood

The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Dryer FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

Firefi ghters responded to a dryer fi re in an upstairs apartment on Metalmark on April 2. Fire extinguishers and water canisters were used to put the fi re out. A fan was used to rid the apartment of smoke. No one was injured and the family was safely outside when units arrived.

Smoke could be seen coming from the upstairs apartment.

Firefi ghters Paul Stanphill and Radi Huggard head in with a fan and a couple extra water canisters.

Firefi ghters bring the burned dryer out onto the deck.

Car FiresPhotos by Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters responded to a couple car fi res this month.

Firefi ghters extinguish a fully involved car fi re on Bluebonnet on March 21.

Firefi ghter Mike Helland retrieves a tool after fi refi ghters extinguished an engine fi re on March 27 on Vaughndale.

Fire AlarmPhoto by Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters prepare to hook up a hydrant on Crystal Drive on March 27. The fi re alarm turned out to be a false alarm.

sterile, or previously boiled water to make up the solution. It’s also important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.

Just because a spring allergy treatment says “natural” doesn’t mean that it is safe. Some herbal remedies can cause side effects or can react with medications you’re taking. Talk to your doctor before you start taking any herb or supplement.

It’s nearly impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in an area where plants grow. However, you can ease sniffi ng, sneezing, and watery eyes by avoiding your main allergy triggers. Here are a few tips:

Try to stay indoors whenever the pollen count is very high (pollen counts usually peak in the mornings).Keep your doors and windows closed whenever possible during the spring months to keep allergens out. An air purifi er may also help.Clean the fi lters in your home often. Also, clean bookshelves, vents and other places where pollen can collect.Wash your hair after going outside.Vacuum twice a week. Wear a mask because vacuuming can kick up pollen, mold, and dust trapped in your carpet.

Spring Poison Prevention TipsBy Capt. Tom Aakerwww.IllinoisPoisonCenter.org.

Gardeners Beware Prevent Plant Poisonings Gardeners and homeowners should use caution when choosing plants during the spring planting season. Many plants, trees and shrubs can be harmful, causing skin rash or irritation. Other plants can cause vomiting or diarrhea, if eaten. Even a small amount of some plants may cause more serious problems of the heart, kidneys or other organs, and possibly even death.

Plants that can be toxic include Lily-of-the-Valley, azalea, rhododendron, amaryllis,morning glory and buckeye. (Please note: This is not a complete list.)

Safety Tips Keep all house plants out of children’s reach.Teach children never to put mushrooms, berries or any part of a plant into their mouths.Label all the plants in and around the house with their common and botanical names. Check with a local greenhouse or fl orist to identify unknown plants.Read the IPC’s toxic plant list to fi nd out which plants may be toxic and label them appropriately.

First Aid for PoisoningPoison in the Mouth:

Call the poison center, whether the poison was swallowed or not.Do not make the person vomit, or give the victim something to eat or drink unless the poison center tells you to.

Poison on the Skin:Take off clothes that have poison on them.Rinse the skin very well with water. Then wash the skin with soap and water.

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Poison in the Eye:Remove contact lenses (if worn).Rinse the eyes with water for 15 minutes.Open and close the eyes while rinsing.

Poison in the Air:Open windows and doors to let in fresh air.Leave the area and move to a place where you can breathe fresh air.Help others leave the area, but be careful not to breathe the poison yourself.Call the Illinois Poison Center as soon as possible

Use Care When Spring CleaningSpend a few minutes to safeguard against potential poisoning hazards in your home. Cleaning products such as bleaches, disinfectants, fl oor and tile cleaners, automatic dishwasher detergent and glass cleaners can be toxic.

Safety TipsStore cleaning products up high and out of children’s reach.Keep all cleaning products in their original containers with original labels.Always read the product label fi rst and use the product according to the directions.Never leave a cleaning product open and unattended.

Mixing ChemicalsMixing certain cleaning chemicals can create toxic gases. Breathing in these gases can cause coughing, burning of the eyes, nose and throat and diffi culty breathing. Do not mix cleaning products. Work in well-ventilated areas when using cleaning products.

Product DisposalEmptying household chemicals into drains or throwing them outwith the regular trash can pollute the environment. To learn how to dispose of these products safely, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Web site at www.epa.state.il.us. Dispose of cleaning products according to the instructions on the label.

Lawn Care and Pesticide Safety Fertilizers can irritate the skin and stomach. After using fertilizer, make sure everyone stays off the lawn/grass for two days or until it rains. Pesticides also are dangerous poisoning hazards, and are likely to be more toxic than lawn fertilizers.

Safety TipsWear protective clothing.Do not apply on a windy day.Keep children and pets away during application and until the product dries, or as directed on the label.Always store lawn chemicals in the original containers, complete with labels that list ingredients, directions for use and fi rst-aid teps in case of an accidental poisoning.

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EMS CornerBy Capt. Jay Alms

Spring Allergieshttp://www.webmd.com/allergies/spring-allergies

Spring is the time of year that we normally think of when it comes to allergies. As the trees start to bloom and the pollen gets airborne, allergy sufferers begin their annual ritual of sniffi ng and sneezing. Each year, 35 million Americans fall prey to seasonal allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever.

Although there is no magical cure for spring allergies, there is a number of ways to combat

them, from medication to household habits.

The biggest spring allergy is pollen—tiny grains released into the air by trees, grasses, and weeds for the purpose of fertilizing other plants. When pollen grains get into the nose of someone who’s allergic, they send the immune system into overdrive.

The immune system, mistakenly seeing the pollen as foreign invaders, releases antibodies—substances that normally identify and attack bacteria, viruses, and other illness-causing organisms. These antibodies attack the allergens, which leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms of allergies.

Pollen can travel for miles, spreading a path of misery for allergy sufferers along the way. The higher the pollen count, the greater the misery. The pollen count measures the amount of allergens in the air in grains per cubic meter. You can fi nd the daily pollen count in your area by watching the local weather forecast or by visiting the NAB: Pollen & Mold Counts page on the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s web site.

Here are some of the biggest spring allergy offenders: Trees: Alder, Ash, Aspen, Beech, Box Elder, Cedar, Cottonwood, Cypress, Elm, Hickory, Juniper, Maple, Mulberry, Oak, Olive, Palm, Pine, Poplar, Sycamore & Willow. Grasses and weeds: Bermuda, Fescue, Johnson, June, Orchard, Perennial rye, Redtop, Saltgrass, Sweet vernal & Timothy.

Allergy symptoms tend to be particularly high on breezy days when the wind picks up pollen and carries it through the air. Rainy days, on the other hand, cause a drop in the pollen counts because the rain washes away the allergens.

The symptoms of spring allergies include: Runny nose, Watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, Itchy eyes and nose and dark circles under the eyes.

Airborne allergens also can trigger asthma, a condition in which the airways narrow, making breathing diffi cult and leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

If you’ve never been formally diagnosed with spring allergies but you notice that your eyes and nose are itchy and runny during the spring months, see your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to an allergist for tests.

The allergy specialist may do skin test, which involves injecting tiny samples of a diluted allergen just under the skin of your arm

or back. If you’re allergic to the substance, a small red bump (called a wheal or hive) will form. Another diagnostic option is the radioallergosorbent test or RAST. RAST is a blood test that detects antibody levels to a particular allergen. Just because you are sensitive to a particular allergen on a test, though, doesn’t mean that you’ll actually necessarily start sneezing and coughing when you come into contact with it.

Doctors treat spring allergies with a number of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Over-the-counter allergy drugs are effective for many people and include the following:

Antihistamines reduce sneezing, sniffi ng, and itching by lowering the amount of histamine (the substance produced during an allergic reaction) in the body.Decongestants clear the mucus out of the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and swelling.Antihistamine/decongestants combine the effects of both drugs.Nasal spray decongestants relieve congestion and may clear clogged nasal passages faster than oral decongestants.Cromolyn sodium nasal spray can help prevent hay fever by stopping the release of histamine before it can trigger allergy symptoms.Eye drops relieve itchy, watery eyes.

Even though you can buy these allergy drugs without a prescription, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor fi rst to make sure you choose the right medication. Some antihistamines can make you feel sleepy, so you need to be careful when taking them during the day (although non-drowsy formulations are also available). Don’t use the over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants for more than a few days without talking to your doctor.

If the over-the-counter remedies don’t help the allergies, your doctor may recommend a prescription medication or allergy shots. Prescription nasal sprays with corticosteroids reduce infl ammation in the nose. Allergy shots expose your body to gradually increasing doses of the allergen until you become tolerant of it. They can relieve your symptoms for a longer period of time than oral and nasal allergy medications. Although they don’t work for everyone, in people who do see a response, allergy shots can stave off symptoms for a few years.

Some allergy sufferers turn to natural therapies for relief, although the research is mixed on their effectiveness:

Butterbur. The herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus), which comes from a European shrub, shows potential for relieving seasonal allergy symptoms. In one Swiss study, butterbur was as effective as the antihistamine Allegra for reducing allergy symptoms.Quercetin. This fl avonoid, which is found naturally in onions, apples, and black tea, has anti-infl ammatory properties and has shown in research to block histamines.Stinging nettle. The roots and leaves of the stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica) have been used to treat everything from joint pain to prostate problems. Although some people use freeze-dried stinging nettle leaves to treat allergy symptoms, there isn’t much research to show it works. Nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation with a combination of warm water, about a quarter-teaspoon of salt, and a quarter-teaspoon of baking soda may help clear out mucus and open sinus passages. You can administer the solution through a squeeze bottle or a neti pot—a device that looks a small teapot. Use distilled,

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Warm Weather Brings Early Grass & Field FiresPhotos by Sheryl Drost & DC John Bergeron

Firefi ghter Rob Gonia extinguishes a fi eld fi re on Atwood Rd. on March 11.

Lt. Mike Huffman uses a hose line to assist the front sprays of the minipumper on a fi eld fi re on Rockton Rd. on March 11.

Firefi ghters extinguish a small grass fi re in the meridian of Hwy 251 on March 16.

Capt. Tim Bergeron pulls hose to reach a fi eld fi re off I-90 on March 16.

Field Burns Photos by Sheryl Drost

Training nights have also included fi eld fi res, but this time the fi refi ghters are controlling them. They have been working on their practicals for Firefi ghter II Class.

Ryan Sarver wears an Indian Water Pack. It is a vest fi lled with water and has a wand with a spray nozzle. Firefi ghters use these to get to the areas the grass rigs can’t or for small fi res.

Firefi ghters ready and waiting to fi nish putting out the grass burn.

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5

Local Burning OrdinancesUnincorporated Winnebago Co. (outside of the no burn areas)You may burn dry landscape waste on weekends only from April15th through May 15th and on weekends during the month of Nov.

Village of Roscoe - Burning Allowed

Village of Machesney Park -May burn yard waste materials only during the months of April and November during daytime hours.Standard Restrictions:

No unattended burning; Some form of fi re extinguishing must be available at the burning site.No burning of landscape waste or brush generated on anotherproperty.No burning before 10:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.No burning when the wind exceeds 10 m.p.h.No burning within 25 feet of any building, structure, or property line.No burning upon sidewalks, right-of-way, streets, highways, or other public roadways.

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www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

House FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters responded to an early morning fi re to a vacant house on Queen Oaks Dr. on March 11. First in offi cer reported fi re showing on three sides of the house. Firefi ghters did a great job of knocking the fi re down, but overhaul would take some time. Ceiling and walls were pulled to get to all the fi re extension. The fi re is under investigation.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 6 The Firehouse Scene - Page 7

House FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters responded to an early morning fi re to a vacant house on Queen Oaks Dr. on March 11. First in offi cer reported fi re showing on three sides of the house. Firefi ghters did a great job of knocking the fi re down, but overhaul would take some time. Ceiling and walls were pulled to get to all the fi re extension. The fi re is under investigation.

EMS CornerBy Capt. Jay Alms

Spring Allergieshttp://www.webmd.com/allergies/spring-allergies

Spring is the time of year that we normally think of when it comes to allergies. As the trees start to bloom and the pollen gets airborne, allergy sufferers begin their annual ritual of sniffi ng and sneezing. Each year, 35 million Americans fall prey to seasonal allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever.

Although there is no magical cure for spring allergies, there is a number of ways to combat

them, from medication to household habits.

The biggest spring allergy is pollen—tiny grains released into the air by trees, grasses, and weeds for the purpose of fertilizing other plants. When pollen grains get into the nose of someone who’s allergic, they send the immune system into overdrive.

The immune system, mistakenly seeing the pollen as foreign invaders, releases antibodies—substances that normally identify and attack bacteria, viruses, and other illness-causing organisms. These antibodies attack the allergens, which leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms of allergies.

Pollen can travel for miles, spreading a path of misery for allergy sufferers along the way. The higher the pollen count, the greater the misery. The pollen count measures the amount of allergens in the air in grains per cubic meter. You can fi nd the daily pollen count in your area by watching the local weather forecast or by visiting the NAB: Pollen & Mold Counts page on the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s web site.

Here are some of the biggest spring allergy offenders: Trees: Alder, Ash, Aspen, Beech, Box Elder, Cedar, Cottonwood, Cypress, Elm, Hickory, Juniper, Maple, Mulberry, Oak, Olive, Palm, Pine, Poplar, Sycamore & Willow. Grasses and weeds: Bermuda, Fescue, Johnson, June, Orchard, Perennial rye, Redtop, Saltgrass, Sweet vernal & Timothy.

Allergy symptoms tend to be particularly high on breezy days when the wind picks up pollen and carries it through the air. Rainy days, on the other hand, cause a drop in the pollen counts because the rain washes away the allergens.

The symptoms of spring allergies include: Runny nose, Watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, Itchy eyes and nose and dark circles under the eyes.

Airborne allergens also can trigger asthma, a condition in which the airways narrow, making breathing diffi cult and leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

If you’ve never been formally diagnosed with spring allergies but you notice that your eyes and nose are itchy and runny during the spring months, see your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to an allergist for tests.

The allergy specialist may do skin test, which involves injecting tiny samples of a diluted allergen just under the skin of your arm

or back. If you’re allergic to the substance, a small red bump (called a wheal or hive) will form. Another diagnostic option is the radioallergosorbent test or RAST. RAST is a blood test that detects antibody levels to a particular allergen. Just because you are sensitive to a particular allergen on a test, though, doesn’t mean that you’ll actually necessarily start sneezing and coughing when you come into contact with it.

Doctors treat spring allergies with a number of over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Over-the-counter allergy drugs are effective for many people and include the following:

Antihistamines reduce sneezing, sniffi ng, and itching by lowering the amount of histamine (the substance produced during an allergic reaction) in the body.Decongestants clear the mucus out of the nasal passageways to relieve congestion and swelling.Antihistamine/decongestants combine the effects of both drugs.Nasal spray decongestants relieve congestion and may clear clogged nasal passages faster than oral decongestants.Cromolyn sodium nasal spray can help prevent hay fever by stopping the release of histamine before it can trigger allergy symptoms.Eye drops relieve itchy, watery eyes.

Even though you can buy these allergy drugs without a prescription, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor fi rst to make sure you choose the right medication. Some antihistamines can make you feel sleepy, so you need to be careful when taking them during the day (although non-drowsy formulations are also available). Don’t use the over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants for more than a few days without talking to your doctor.

If the over-the-counter remedies don’t help the allergies, your doctor may recommend a prescription medication or allergy shots. Prescription nasal sprays with corticosteroids reduce infl ammation in the nose. Allergy shots expose your body to gradually increasing doses of the allergen until you become tolerant of it. They can relieve your symptoms for a longer period of time than oral and nasal allergy medications. Although they don’t work for everyone, in people who do see a response, allergy shots can stave off symptoms for a few years.

Some allergy sufferers turn to natural therapies for relief, although the research is mixed on their effectiveness:

Butterbur. The herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus), which comes from a European shrub, shows potential for relieving seasonal allergy symptoms. In one Swiss study, butterbur was as effective as the antihistamine Allegra for reducing allergy symptoms.Quercetin. This fl avonoid, which is found naturally in onions, apples, and black tea, has anti-infl ammatory properties and has shown in research to block histamines.Stinging nettle. The roots and leaves of the stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica) have been used to treat everything from joint pain to prostate problems. Although some people use freeze-dried stinging nettle leaves to treat allergy symptoms, there isn’t much research to show it works. Nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation with a combination of warm water, about a quarter-teaspoon of salt, and a quarter-teaspoon of baking soda may help clear out mucus and open sinus passages. You can administer the solution through a squeeze bottle or a neti pot—a device that looks a small teapot. Use distilled,

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Warm Weather Brings Early Grass & Field FiresPhotos by Sheryl Drost & DC John Bergeron

Firefi ghter Rob Gonia extinguishes a fi eld fi re on Atwood Rd. on March 11.

Lt. Mike Huffman uses a hose line to assist the front sprays of the minipumper on a fi eld fi re on Rockton Rd. on March 11.

Firefi ghters extinguish a small grass fi re in the meridian of Hwy 251 on March 16.

Capt. Tim Bergeron pulls hose to reach a fi eld fi re off I-90 on March 16.

Field Burns Photos by Sheryl Drost

Training nights have also included fi eld fi res, but this time the fi refi ghters are controlling them. They have been working on their practicals for Firefi ghter II Class.

Ryan Sarver wears an Indian Water Pack. It is a vest fi lled with water and has a wand with a spray nozzle. Firefi ghters use these to get to the areas the grass rigs can’t or for small fi res.

Firefi ghters ready and waiting to fi nish putting out the grass burn.

The Firehouse Scene -Page 8 The Firehouse Scene - Page 5

Local Burning OrdinancesUnincorporated Winnebago Co. (outside of the no burn areas)You may burn dry landscape waste on weekends only from April15th through May 15th and on weekends during the month of Nov.

Village of Roscoe - Burning Allowed

Village of Machesney Park -May burn yard waste materials only during the months of April and November during daytime hours.Standard Restrictions:

No unattended burning; Some form of fi re extinguishing must be available at the burning site.No burning of landscape waste or brush generated on anotherproperty.No burning before 10:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.No burning when the wind exceeds 10 m.p.h.No burning within 25 feet of any building, structure, or property line.No burning upon sidewalks, right-of-way, streets, highways, or other public roadways.

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www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Firehouse Scene - Page 4 The Firehouse Scene -Page 9 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Dryer FirePhotos by Sheryl Drost

Firefi ghters responded to a dryer fi re in an upstairs apartment on Metalmark on April 2. Fire extinguishers and water canisters were used to put the fi re out. A fan was used to rid the apartment of smoke. No one was injured and the family was safely outside when units arrived.

Smoke could be seen coming from the upstairs apartment.

Firefi ghters Paul Stanphill and Radi Huggard head in with a fan and a couple extra water canisters.

Firefi ghters bring the burned dryer out onto the deck.

Car FiresPhotos by Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters responded to a couple car fi res this month.

Firefi ghters extinguish a fully involved car fi re on Bluebonnet on March 21.

Firefi ghter Mike Helland retrieves a tool after fi refi ghters extinguished an engine fi re on March 27 on Vaughndale.

Fire AlarmPhoto by Marcia Soppe

Firefi ghters prepare to hook up a hydrant on Crystal Drive on March 27. The fi re alarm turned out to be a false alarm.

sterile, or previously boiled water to make up the solution. It’s also important to rinse the irrigation device after each use and leave open to air dry.

Just because a spring allergy treatment says “natural” doesn’t mean that it is safe. Some herbal remedies can cause side effects or can react with medications you’re taking. Talk to your doctor before you start taking any herb or supplement.

It’s nearly impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in an area where plants grow. However, you can ease sniffi ng, sneezing, and watery eyes by avoiding your main allergy triggers. Here are a few tips:

Try to stay indoors whenever the pollen count is very high (pollen counts usually peak in the mornings).Keep your doors and windows closed whenever possible during the spring months to keep allergens out. An air purifi er may also help.Clean the fi lters in your home often. Also, clean bookshelves, vents and other places where pollen can collect.Wash your hair after going outside.Vacuum twice a week. Wear a mask because vacuuming can kick up pollen, mold, and dust trapped in your carpet.

Spring Poison Prevention TipsBy Capt. Tom Aakerwww.IllinoisPoisonCenter.org.

Gardeners Beware Prevent Plant Poisonings Gardeners and homeowners should use caution when choosing plants during the spring planting season. Many plants, trees and shrubs can be harmful, causing skin rash or irritation. Other plants can cause vomiting or diarrhea, if eaten. Even a small amount of some plants may cause more serious problems of the heart, kidneys or other organs, and possibly even death.

Plants that can be toxic include Lily-of-the-Valley, azalea, rhododendron, amaryllis,morning glory and buckeye. (Please note: This is not a complete list.)

Safety Tips Keep all house plants out of children’s reach.Teach children never to put mushrooms, berries or any part of a plant into their mouths.Label all the plants in and around the house with their common and botanical names. Check with a local greenhouse or fl orist to identify unknown plants.Read the IPC’s toxic plant list to fi nd out which plants may be toxic and label them appropriately.

First Aid for PoisoningPoison in the Mouth:

Call the poison center, whether the poison was swallowed or not.Do not make the person vomit, or give the victim something to eat or drink unless the poison center tells you to.

Poison on the Skin:Take off clothes that have poison on them.Rinse the skin very well with water. Then wash the skin with soap and water.

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Poison in the Eye:Remove contact lenses (if worn).Rinse the eyes with water for 15 minutes.Open and close the eyes while rinsing.

Poison in the Air:Open windows and doors to let in fresh air.Leave the area and move to a place where you can breathe fresh air.Help others leave the area, but be careful not to breathe the poison yourself.Call the Illinois Poison Center as soon as possible

Use Care When Spring CleaningSpend a few minutes to safeguard against potential poisoning hazards in your home. Cleaning products such as bleaches, disinfectants, fl oor and tile cleaners, automatic dishwasher detergent and glass cleaners can be toxic.

Safety TipsStore cleaning products up high and out of children’s reach.Keep all cleaning products in their original containers with original labels.Always read the product label fi rst and use the product according to the directions.Never leave a cleaning product open and unattended.

Mixing ChemicalsMixing certain cleaning chemicals can create toxic gases. Breathing in these gases can cause coughing, burning of the eyes, nose and throat and diffi culty breathing. Do not mix cleaning products. Work in well-ventilated areas when using cleaning products.

Product DisposalEmptying household chemicals into drains or throwing them outwith the regular trash can pollute the environment. To learn how to dispose of these products safely, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Web site at www.epa.state.il.us. Dispose of cleaning products according to the instructions on the label.

Lawn Care and Pesticide Safety Fertilizers can irritate the skin and stomach. After using fertilizer, make sure everyone stays off the lawn/grass for two days or until it rains. Pesticides also are dangerous poisoning hazards, and are likely to be more toxic than lawn fertilizers.

Safety TipsWear protective clothing.Do not apply on a windy day.Keep children and pets away during application and until the product dries, or as directed on the label.Always store lawn chemicals in the original containers, complete with labels that list ingredients, directions for use and fi rst-aid teps in case of an accidental poisoning.

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The Firehouse Scene - Page 10 The Firehouse Scene - Page 3

/ 03/17/12 Hononegah Rd. 03/31/12 Mutual Aid to North Park Fire - Eddington

03/10/12 N. Alpine Rd.

03/09/12 Hwy 251 03/30/12 Perryville Rd.

Accidents Photos by Sheryl Drost & Marcia Soppe

03/15/12 Hwy 251 03/15/12 I-90

/ 03/31/12 I-90 Fatal

www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

The Sping Dinner Fundraiser a Success!By Chief Don Shoevlin

Thank you to everyone who attended our Firefi ghter’s Association Annual Spring Dinner Fundraiser on March 24.

We served over 1500 dinners that evening, between dining in, carryout and delivery. Words cannot explain the feelings or gratifi cation we hold for your continuous support that we receive.

I also must thank all of the fi refi ghters for the untiring efforts and hard work to its success. They continue to rise to the task and settle for nothing less than a complete and successful outcome.

I would also like to say a special thank you to our fi re personnel’s family and friends as well as the Scout troops that helped us with the dinner: Deb Alms, Charlotte Alms, Jenny Anderson’s daughters Becca and Katy, Deann Bergeron, Michelle Bergeron, Megan Bernhard, Cody Bush, Amy Daughenbaugh, Carol Donovan with daughter Chelsea and Corie, Peggy Davenport and daughter Taelor and friend Allison, Anna Eich, Melissa Harding, Michael Harwood, Jennifer Jensen, Jodi Klaman and sons Michael and Christopher, Taylor and Addison Lukowski, Christy Morris and son Nathan, Jane Quast, Brenna Schafman, Tammy Shoevlin, Carolyn Wolfe and Girl Scout Troop 3030 and Cadette Troops 3454 and 3387.

“My father, Michael Harwood, volunteered to help at the Spring Dinner and he was there pouring coffee and water for everyone and never once sat down to eat. He’s 70 years old and he was a FF/EMT for many years. He had a blast talking to all the other fi refi ghters and employees, and citizens alike. I’m just proud, given his age and health, that he’s still up for this. Thanks Dad!” Firefi ghter Justin Harwood

Birthdays

April 10th Colleen Bloyer22nd Brett Parrish ‘21st’24th Paul Stanphill25th Ryan Sarver ‘21st’29th Snoopy ‘90th’

May1st Dan Gunderson11th Marcia Soppe13th Josh Hoffl and16th Chuck Schoonover20th John Bunger23rd Rob Lukowski31st Jordan Stark

Total Calls for 2012

648

Firehouse Scene The Firehouse Scene is a monthly newsletter produced by the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Prot. Dist.

Editor-in-Chief - Don ShoevlinEditor & Layout - Sheryl Drost

The Firehouse Scene is available at Station One - 10544 Main Street in Roscoe and on the department’s website after the second Sunday each month. www.harlemroscoefi re.comE-mail submissions to Sheryl:hrfdsdrost@gmail.com

From the Chief’s DeskBy Fire Chief Don Shoevlin

Spring has sprung; I do believe it is safe to say. I sit here day dreaming (don’t tell the bosses) and I fi nd it hard to believe that this month; a year will have already passed since the wedding of my daughter Michelle. Where does the time go? I go from two weddings in 2011 to

the arrival of more grandchildren in 2012. Just a great example of how life is so wonderful and precious.

The men and woman of the department held another successful Spring Dinner. Of course its success would not have happened without your support. Thank you to everyone who had an opportunity to attend. The weather was great and the fi refi ghters did a fantastic job. The preliminary numbers I was told is that we served over 1500 meals.

The warmer weather has many of us out cleaning our yards from the winter season. Remember there are burning ordinances in place from the boards of the County and Villages. If you are unsure of the ordinance, you can call our business phone line (623-7867) and we will assist you based upon where you live. When burning please be cautious and courteous of your neighbors.

As we come to the end of our fi scal year I look back on some of our accomplishments as well as look forward to what needs we will continue to have, so that we continue providing excellent service to our communities. Our roster of dedicated fi refi ghters continues to grow. Our fi refi ghter’s commitment to the department and the demands put on them continue to grow as well. I assure you we will keep a watchful eye on our day-to-day operations and expenses without compromising on safety and the well-being of our district. We will continue to apply for grants to assist us in the purchasing of equipment, building upgrades, and personnel protective clothing.

Thank you all for your continued support to the men and women of the Harlem Roscoe Fire Protection District. Remember to check out our website www.harlemroscoefi re.com to keep up with the progress of the department and individuals. As always, don’t hesitate to contact me or stop by if I can be of any assistance.

RoRo ExpoPhotos by Marcia Soppe

Harlem-Roscoe Fire personnel participated in the Annual RoRo Expo held at the Hononegah High School on March 10 & 11. Personnel manned a booth passing out safety materials and giving blood pressure checks. They also joined Rockton Fire in a pancake breakfast fundraiser at the expo and raised $550 for the ‘I Am Me’ Burn Camp.

Firefi ghters Ron Klaman, John Donovan and Lt. Doug Wolfe prepare pancakes for the pancake breakfast fundraiser.

Firefi ghter John Barth mans the informational booth.

Sparky was a big hit with the kids at the expo.

The Firehouse Scene - Page 2 The Firehouse Scene - Page 11 www.harlemroscoefi re.comwww.harlemroscoefi re.com

Gone,But not forgotten

Some people come into our lives,And quickly go.

Some stay awhile andleave footprints in our hearts.

And, we are never, ever the same.

Firefi ghter Micah Anderson’s grandmother, Nancy Wilson from Rockton, IL passed away on March 25.

Firefi ghter Josh Hoffl and’s grandfather, Billy Stipp from Arvada, Colorado passed away March 25.

Dispatcher Carmella Young’s brother, Dave Pixler from Bagley MN passed away on March 22.

Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Anderson, Hoffl and and Young family and friends.

oscar & dean presley

Come celebrate retired Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief Oscar Presley and his wife Dean’s 50th wedding anniversary. Their children, John and Marcie, are hosting an Open House for their parents. All are welcome!

When: Sunday, April 22, 2012Where: Willowbrook School, 6605 Prairie Hill Rd. So. Beloit, Il. 61080Time: 1:00- 4:00 pm

***sandwiches, salads, & desserts will be served***

Oscar & Dean are requesting no gifts… but if you would like, please bring in non-perishable food items they could donate to a local food pantry.

Guy ‘Snoopy’ StirtsApril 29, 1922

Obstacle CoursePhotos by Marcia Soppe

You may have seen several fi re trucks going around in what seemed to be circles on March 31. Firefi ghters were actually completing an obstacle course required to complete their Fire Apparatus Operator to be able to drive the fi re trucks.

the firehouse sceneIs a monthly publication of the

Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District

The Firehouse Scene - Page 12www.harlemroscoefi re.com

April 2012 Fire Chief Don Shoevlin Editor Sheryl Drost

Photo by Sheryl Drost

House FirePages 6 &7

Spring Dinner Page 10

Mother Alms taking care of her boys!

Fire monster fi ghts back!

On guard!

Hey Morgan, did they say left or right?Thanks for the donuts and coffee Mother Alms!

Station Funnies!

Thank you!