tacoma fire department annual report 2013

Tacoma Fire Department Annual Report 2013

Mission: To protect people, property and the environment


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CITY OF TACOMA OFFICIALS 2013

Marilyn Strickland Mayor

Anders Ibsen Council Member, Position 1

Robert Thoms Council Member, Position 2

Lauren Walker Council Member, Position 3

Marty Campbell Council Member, Position 4

Joe Lonergan Council Member, Position 5

Deputy Mayor, Victoria Woodards Council Member, At-Large Position 6

David Boe Council Member, At-Large Position 7

Ryan Mello Council Member, At-Large Position 8

T.C. Broadnax City Manager

http://www.cityoftacoma.org/


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CONTENTS

DEDICATION ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

A MESSAGE FROM THE FIRE CHIEF ............................................................................................................................................................ 4

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................................................................... 1

CITY AND DEPARTMENT COMPOSITION .................................................................................................................................................... 5

2013 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ................................................................................................................................................................. 6

BUDGET, FINANCE, AND STRATEGIC PLANNING ........................................................................................................................................ 7

OPERATIONS BUREAU ................................................................................................................................................................................ 9

ADMINISTRATION BUREAU ...................................................................................................................................................................... 14

PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................................................................................. 31

NOTABLE INCIDENTS ................................................................................................................................................................................ 36

STRATEGIC INITIATIVES ............................................................................................................................................................................ 39

September 11 Remembrance Ceremony


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DEDICATION Firefighter Albert A. Nejmeh, Ladder 2, C-shift

“I got your back brother”


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MESSAGE FROM THE FIRE CHIEF Fire Chief James P. Duggan

Thank you for reviewing our 2013 Annual Report. This has been one of the most challenging years in TFD’s long and storied history. Our department not only adapted to the many retirements that occurred at the end of the previous year, but also adjusted to the closure of a fire station, the elimination of one engine company, and the conversion of two other engine companies to squads. Would the City’s revenues fall further, necessitating deeper cuts and more reductions later in the year? Instead of being distracted by that question, TFD personnel put it aside to focus on their work, hone their craft, and deliver the best services possible.

In May, we came together to mourn the line-of-duty death of Albert A. Nejmeh, a firefighter highly respected and widely admired. Our memories of the budgetary uncertainties of 2013 will fade in time, but the impact Al had on many of us will endure for the rest of our lives.

I am proud of all of our uniformed and civilian personnel for their efforts to come together, adjust to change and achieve successes; however there is one group to whom I want to particularly express my deep appreciation—those whose collar insignia is a pair of crossed gold bugles, the TFD Battalion Chiefs, Administrative Battalion Chief, and Medical Services Officer. The men and women who fill these ranks exemplify TFD’s values. They embody the best of our traditions. Day-to-day, shift-by-shift, incident-by-incident, they are the steadfast leaders, respected role models, and valued mentors for those who are under their command. For my staff and me, they provide diverse perspective, wise counsel, and thoughtful insight, all of which are necessary to keep TFD moving forward and ready to meet any challenge that lies ahead.

Battalion Chief Dyre E. Fudge Jr., Battalion 1, A-shift Battalion Chief James R. Scott, Battalion 2, D-shift Battalion Chief Dale L. Vaughn, Battalion 3, C-shift Battalion Chief James D. Zuluaga, Battalion 1, B-shift Battalion Chief Benjamin H. Flesher, Battalion 2, A-shift Battalion Chief Brian M. Hardy, Battalion 2, C-shift Battalion Chief Ray A. Manglona, Battalion 3, D-shift Battalion Chief Allen W. Estes, Jr., Battalion 2, B-shift Battalion Chief Jolene D. Davis, Battalion 1, C-shift Battalion Chief Jeffrey A. Chandler, Battalion 3, B-shift

Battalion Chief David McRoberts, Battalion 3, A-shift Battalion Chief Lincoln Correa, Battalion 1, D-shift Battalion Chief Douglas W. Kimball, Battalion 1, B-shift Medical Services Officer Michael Newhouse, Fire Headquarters Administrative Battalion Chief John J. Pappuleas, Fire Communications


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Tacoma Fire Department provides vital services to the community. From the collective efforts of our firefighters and administrative staff working with city management, other City of Tacoma departments, elected officials, neighboring fire departments, and the citizens of our community, we will continue to ensure that TFD meets the inevitable challenges that are a part of sustaining a first-rate municipal fire department. DEPLOYMENT CHANGES The Great Recession and the prolonged recovery substantially reduced Tacoma’s tax base. In order to balance the 2013-14 biennial budget, the City of Tacoma reset service levels to those that are affordable and sustainable. As a result, TFD’s budgeted staffing has decreased by 12.6% since 2011—from 445.3 full-time equivalents (FTEs) to 389.5 FTEs. Those reductions necessitated the following deployment changes in 2013:

• Fire Station 6 closed, eliminating Engine 6 • Fire Station 13 modified service by converting Engine 13 to Squad 13, a peak time (12-hour) response

vehicle. • Ladder 3 moved from Station 9 to Station 13 in order to keep Station 13 staffed 24 hours per day • Fire Station 15 modified service by converting Engine 15 to Squad 15, a 24-hour response vehicle • Fireboat Destiny relocated from the Thea Foss Waterway, where it had been cross-staffed by Station 6,

to the Tacoma Yacht Club so that it could be cross-staffed by Station 14.

These deployment changes resulted in an 18.75% decrease in frontline engine companies—from 16 engines to 13. Staffing levels decreased by 4.17% during the day and 6.9% at night. (Previous frontline staffing was 74 personnel, 24 hours per day. In 2013, frontline staffing was reduced to 69 personnel from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 67 personnel from 7 pm to 7 am.) Additionally, funding was eliminated for one deputy chief, one medical services officer, one 40-hour battalion chief, one administrative paramedic supervisor, and two civilian positions.

EFFICIENCIES

Throughout 2013, TFD continued to identify and implement operational efficiencies. One example was the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system upgrade that was completed with TFD’s contracted private ambulance company, Rural/Metro. The upgrade now allows for seamless computer-to-computer communication between TFD and Rural/Metro. Previously, TFD dispatchers had to make a phone call to the company’s dispatch center to coordinate a response. This efficiency improves both dispatch and response times.


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FACTS AND FIGURES

Fire departments commonly report on two distinct sets of data: incidents by initial dispatch type and incidents by the final situation found. To better understand departmental activities, it is important to evaluate both our workload (dispatched incidents) and what services were actually provided (final situation found). Workload data is critical for establishing appropriate staffing levels and the necessary resources to meet requests for emergency service. Final situation found data most accurately explains the frequency that various types of incidents occur within our community. For the sake of consistency and except where clearly noted, the data in this annual report will be based on the final situation found.

Dispatched Incidents by Initial Dispatch Type

Initial

Situation

Month

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total

Fire/Auto Fire Alarm 329 244 261 297 365 372 488 424 324 318 300 408 4,130

Request for EMS 2,792 2,389 2,566 2,525 2,809 2,662 2,716 2,852 2,885 2,743 2,623 2,731 32,263

All Other 242 241 230 228 248 225 244 255 233 213 215 277 2,851

Monthly Total 3,363 2,874 3,057 3,050 3,422 3,259 3,448 3,531 3,412 3,274 3,138 3,416 39,244

Dispatched Incidents by Final Primary Situation Found

Final

Situation

Month

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total

Fire 64 63 59 57 108 115 208 141 61 51 63 68 1,058

EMS 2,377 2,028 2,167 2,116 2,276 2,131 2,276 2,363 2,382 2,325 2,208 2,284 26,923

All Other 922 783 831 877 1,038 1,013 974 1,027 969 898 867 1,064 11,263

Monthly Total 3,363 2,874 3,057 3,050 3,422 3,259 3,448 3,531 3,412 3,274 3,138 3,416 39,244


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EMS

In 2013, our citizens called 911 over 53,000 times to request help. We dispatched over 67,000 companies to provide assistance with those incidents. One company is a fire engine staffed with three firefighters, a ladder truck staffed with three firefighters, a squad staffed with two firefighters, or a medic company staffed with two firefighter/paramedics. What types of problems did we help with? The majority were emergency medical situations. We assessed and treated over 27,000* people last year. The top five reasons for requesting help—getting hurt, feeling sick, breathing problems, heart issues, and losing consciousness.

*859 EMS incidents had multiple patients, so the patient count is greater than the total EMS incidents

Patients = 27,043

Administered Medicine = 8,821

IV's = 5,212

EKG's = 5,473

Oxygen Therapy = 3,208

Airway Intubation = 340

Spinal Immobilization = 596

Blood Pressures = 21,517

Total Transports = 6,446


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Fire

Citizens also called upon us to extinguish 1,058* fires last year—an average of 2.9 times per day. Despite our notoriously “rainy” Northwest weather, the majority of our fires occurred outdoors (e.g., grass, brush, and trees) in the summer months.

*24 fire incidents involved more than one of these type codes, so the total is greater than the dispatched by final situation found.

Structure Fires • 363

Outdoor Fires and Prohibited Burns • 594

Vehicle Fires • 125


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DEPARTMENT AND COMMUNITY OVERVIEW

COMPOSITION

The City of Tacoma was incorporated in 1884. From its humble origins of less than 1,000 residents, the city has grown in population to roughly 200,000 today. TFD also provides contracted fire and EMS protection to the cities of Fircrest and Fife, as well as Pierce County Fire District 10, for an additional population of approximately 18,000.

The city, like many established communities, is a mixture of old and new. Recently constructed high-rise condominium buildings contrast with century-old single-family residential neighborhoods. The city’s economic base is comprised of a wide-variety of industries—health care, education, retail, gaming, and the Port of Tacoma.

There are 72 square miles within the city limits and contract areas, along with 44 miles of shoreline, and 25 square miles of saltwater. The city is divided by Interstates 5 and 705 along with State Routes 16 and 509.

2013 BUDGETED RESOURCES

Budgeted Personnel

357 commissioned personnel 32 noncommissioned personnel

389 total positions Staffing 69/67

Stations and Apparatus

15 fire stations 13 engine companies 4 ladder companies 5 medic companies

2 squad companies (one staffed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) 1 safety officer

1 technical rescue unit, cross-staffed 1 hazardous materials unit, cross-staffed

2 fireboats, cross-staffed


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2013 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Fire Chief

Operations Bureau

Fire Suppression and Emergency Medical

Services

Special Operations: Technical Rescue

Hazardous Materials Marine FF and Rescue

Fire Communications

Administration Bureau

Fire/EMS Prevention & Emergency Management

I.T. & Grant Management

Training, Safety,Fire Garage, Electrical

Human Resources, Volunteer Services, Finance & Budget,

Public Relations

Harbor Master, Facilities and Supplies

Administartive Support


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OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF BUDGET, FINANCE, AND STRATEGIC PLANNING

Responsibilities in the section include the development and implementation of departmental priorities, goals, objectives, measures, policies and procedures. Staff in this section also supports the development and maintenance of the biennial budget and provide financial oversight.

BUDGET AND FINANCE

Preliminary final 2013 expenses of the Fire Department totaled $62,244,118 which was an increase of $305,265 from the 2012 total, an increase of .49%. The increase occurred despite a nearly $3.4 million decrease in the General Fund budget. This increase was made possible by staff reductions and grant funding the department received for personnel and equipment.

Staffing levels were reduced for 2013 to a total of 389.5 Budgeted FTEs, down from 446.3 FTEs initially budgeted for the 2011–2012 biennium. As a result, year-over-year personnel expenses were reduced over $3.8 million. Commissioned staffing was reduced by 52 positions. On average during the year, the department operated below the new staffing limit, averaging 10.8 vacant positions per pay period.

2003/04 2005/06 2007/08 2009/10 2011/12 2013/14

436.0 438.0 443.0 443.6 446.3

389.5

All Funds - Budgeted FTEs


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General Fund, Actual and Preliminary Final Actual Actual Preliminary Percent Expenditure Type 2011 2012 2013 Difference Change Subtotal, Personnel 43,617,113 40,953,223 36,612,060 -4,341,163 -10.60% Subtotal, Maint & Operating 3,793,200 3,507,052 4,142,328 635,275 18.11% Subtotal, Assessments 1,071,124 889,078 1,013,437 124,359 13.99% Other Expenses 3,159 8,946 210,120 201,174 2248.65% Capital Outlay

12,620 0 0 0

TOTAL 48,497,217 45,358,300 41,977,945 -3,380,355 -7.45%

All Funds, Actual and Preliminary Final Actual Actual Preliminary Percent Expenditure Type 2011 2012 2013 Difference Change Subtotal, Personnel 55,170,627 54,529,534 50,685,704 -3,843,830 -7.05% Subtotal, Maint & Operating 5,440,891 5,333,759 6,289,090 955,331 17.91% Subtotal, Assessments 1,434,606 1,209,064 1,465,075 256,010 21.17% Other Expenses 497,582 449,603 408,478 -41,125 -9.15% Capital Outlay

1,377,363 416,893 3,395,771 2,978,878 714.54%

TOTAL 63,921,070 61,938,854 62,244,118 305,265 0.49%

STRATEGIC PLANNING

TFD was officially granted accredited agency status by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) August 26, 2009. With this status, TFD became one of the fire service “elite,” both nationally and internationally. Currently, approximately 150 of our country’s more than 30,000 fire departments have achieved this status. As part of our ongoing pursuit of excellence, we submit Annual Compliance Reports (ACR) to CFAI, demonstrating that we are maintaining our progress. Our ACR was accepted for 2012, and we will continue to submit reports each year until 2014—at which time we will be assessed for re-accreditation standing.

Finally, TFD’s administrative team spent considerable planning effort this year refining the department’s operation deployment model based on 2013/14 budget reductions.


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OPERATIONS BUREAU Who We Are

The Operations Bureau’s responsibility is to provide fire, medical, hazardous materials, marine, and technical rescue response within the cities of Tacoma, Fife, Fircrest, as well as Pierce County Fire District 10. Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Faith Mueller, this bureau includes personnel who staff our stations: the battalion chiefs, 13 engine companies, 5 medic companies, 4 ladders companies, and 2 squad companies. Operations personnel also cross-staff 2 fireboats, 1 hazardous materials team, and 1 technical rescue team. In 2013, the minimum staffing was 69 station personnel during the day and 67 station personnel at night. This bureau also includes EMS, Special Operations Division, and the Fire Communications Center.

What We Do

The firefighters in the Operations Bureau respond to emergency requests from the public for:

Fire—residential and commercial structure, high-rise, vehicle, grass and brush. Medical Aid—from general feelings of being sick, to trauma, falls, heart attacks, and strokes. Technical Rescue—vehicle, water, confined space, industrial building collapse, high-angle rope. Hazardous Materials Incidents—transportation, industrial, environmental, and terrorism.

Mass Casualty Incident drill – November 2013


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EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS)

TFD has a 41–year history of providing advanced life support (ALS) services to the community. The first group of firefighters received paramedic training in 1973, and the department began transporting patients in 1991. In 1994, we started our in–house, fully accredited paramedic program to train members of our department as well as professional firefighters from neighboring jurisdictions. In addition to classroom time, the program includes hospital rotations, and field work.

In 2013, firefighter/paramedics staffed to 5 medic companies and 3 ALS engines. There were 6,446 ALS transports.

CPR PROGRAM

TFD is strongly committed to improving the safety of our community. In 2013, our firefighters trained over 2,000 citizens and City of Tacoma employees on how to perform CPR and use an automated external defibrillator. CPR Sunday is the department’s annual mass training opportunity. In 2013, over 750 participants were trained in adult, child, and infant CPR with defibrillator practice.

0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000

TRAUMA

SICK/UNKNOWN

CARDIAC

RESPIRATORY

UNCONSCIOUS

NEUROLOGIC

ABDOMINAL/BACK PAIN

OVERDOSE

PSYCHIATRIC

DIABETIC

ENVIRONMENTAL

GYNECOLOGIC/BIRTH

10,072

5,335

3,116

3,102

3,064

2,432

1,448

1,314

1,149

724

287

220

EMS service by dispatch type

CPR Sunday Training – October 2013


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Special Operations—Hazardous Materials

The goal of TFD’s Hazardous Material Team (Hazmat) is to respond to potential releases of hazardous materials with the purpose of preventing, containing, or stopping the release. In addition, the Hazmat Team responds to confirmed or suspected incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear agents.

All Tacoma firefighters are trained to the Hazmat Operations level, with 27 firefighters certified to the Technician level. Core competencies for the Hazmat Team include the recognition and identification of hazardous materials, response chemistry, environmental regulations, radioactive materials, toxicology, air monitoring and equipment, decontamination procedures, spill control and containment, as well as medical monitoring. In 2013 the hazmat unit responded to 17 incidents.

TECHNICAL RESCUE

The TFD Technical Rescue Team provides the necessary skills and equipment to react quickly in extreme rescue situations. The team members are currently trained in the following five technical rescue disciplines:

• Rope Rescue • Structural Collapse • Confined Space Rescue • Trench Rescue • Technical Extrication

The Technical Rescue Team is comprised of 24 technician level personnel and is supported by 50 personnel trained to the Technical Rescue Operations level. In order to become a Technical Rescue Technician, our personnel must complete approximately 250 hours of discipline specific training. All technicians and operations trained personnel complete monthly training, one shift each month, to maintain proficiency and increase efficiency and safety at technical rescue events. In 2013, the department responded to 13 technical rescue incidents.

Rope rescue for car over embankment E. 35th street – December 2013


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Marine Division

TFD’s Marine Division’s fleet consists of a surface effect ship, the Commencement, as well as a rapid response boat the Destiny.

The Commencement is equipped with two 535 horsepower marine diesel engines powering two 19-inch propellers and a 300 horsepower marine diesel engine that provides power to six 24-inch aluminium alloy fans. The fans can engage to create an air cushion under the ship much like a hovercraft, allowing it to travel up to 30 knots per hour and maintain a stable ride in choppy seas.

In 2013, the Marine Division responded to 112 incidents, including 25 for the Commencement and 87 for the Destiny.

Fireboat Destiny – 30’ rapid response vessel


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FIRE COMMUNICATIONS

TFD operates its own emergency Communications Center and receives calls via the 911 system, our municipal alarm system (which is tied to major buildings, schools, and hospitals), as well as from private alarm companies. The Tacoma Fire Communications Center (FCC) received 89,178 calls in 2013, and dispatched a total of 140,358 fire companies and private ambulances to incidents. In addition to emergency calls within our service area, we currently receive 911 calls and dispatch for Central Pierce Fire & Rescue. The FCC is staffed by 22 commissioned personnel—15 from TFD and 7 from Central Pierce Fire & Rescue. All dispatchers are certified as Emergency Medical Technicians and maintain the same fire operations training as their counterparts in the field. Their experience and knowledge as firefighters helps them to more effectively dispatch the proper resources to emergency incidents, provide life-saving pre-arrival instructions, and seamless on-scene coordination with incident commanders.

Fire Communication Center LT. Pat Tucci


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ADMINISTRATION BUREAU WHO WE ARE

Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Toryono Green, the Administration Bureau provides systems and infrastructure that support TFD operations and firefighters throughout their careers and maintains regulatory code functions.

WHAT WE DO

Responsibilities in the section include the Emergency Management, Fire Prevention and Public Education, Fire and EMS Training, EMS Prevention and Outreach, Safety, Harbor Code Enforcement, Grant Management, Information Technology, Apparatus and Vehicle Maintenance, Electrical Maintenance, Departmental Human Resources, Facilities and Supplies, Budget and Finance, Public Relations, Volunteer Services and Administrative Support.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TFD Information Technology (IT) group consists of six Information Technology Analysts. IT personnel support a variety of systems and hardware, including dispatch systems, applications, databases, e-mail, and web servers. Customized applications have been developed for personnel scheduling, incident reporting, building inspections, and training. Several mapping applications used by Fire Dispatch and for administrative decision analysis are also maintained. The IT Division worked diligently during 2013 to supply the Administration with response data and GIS maps to support the ongoing analysis of the deployment model changes. Several upgrades to mission critical software and hardware were completed including InMotion on board mobile gateways (OMG), TFD CAD to RM CAD interface, MDC upgrade to all TFD apparatus, and the launch of the Siren Patient Care Reporting System.

GRANT MANAGEMENT

TFD has been diligent in pursuing federal funding to support department operations. In 2013 the department received $5.01 million from various grant programs including Assistance to Firefighters, Fire Protection and Safety, Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response, and Port Security. These awards fund firefighter staffing, training, equipment, and the smoke alarm installation program.


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FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION

The Fire Prevention Division (FPD) aims to reduce the frequency and severity of fires and other life safety incidents through a multi-dimensional approach that includes enforcement, engineering, and education.

FIRE INVESTIGATIONS

Fire Investigators are responsible for determining the origin and cause of all significant fires.

TFD responded to 1,086 confirmed fires in 2013. Of those fires, the Fire Investigators were called in for 140 incidents. Of the investigated fires, arson and negligence were the most common causes.

FIRE LOSS

Fire Loss Data

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Fire Loss $8,085,647 $9,609,107 $ 5,824,657 $ 4,663,641 $7,143,223

Injury Loss Civilian 7 11 5 4 2

Injury Loss -Firefighter 56 43 41 35 32

Life Loss - Civilian 1 3 2 1 2

Life Loss - Firefighter 1 - - - 1

Property Loss $6,273,312 $7,903,926 $4,143,405 $3,200,851 $5,533,610

ENGINEERING PLAN REVIEWS AND PERMITS

Plans for new construction are reviewed for adherence to the fire and life-safety codes related to fire protection systems. Permits are issued for fire protection systems and other construction-related activity. High-risk structures or activities such as large public assemblies, the use of explosives, pyrotechnics, liquefied petroleum gas, and hazardous materials are managed through the permitting and inspecting processes. In 2013, our plan reviewers spent over 1,000 hours evaluating these types of plans.


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CODE ENFORCEMENT

TFD is responsible for enforcing the Fire Code within the City of Tacoma. In 2013, Tacoma firefighters conducted 5,600 “company level” fire safety inspections. In addition, Lieutenants assigned to the FPD as fire inspectors conducted 669 permit inspections and 827 code enforcement inspections.

PUBLIC EDUCATION

Public education focuses on educating the community about the benefits of proper safety practices and eliminating hazardous conditions. Firefighters and fire prevention staff participated in over 363 classes and events for youth, businesses, and the community, reaching over 35,878 citizens with safety messages.

TRAINING DIVISION

The Training Division is responsible for training all new firefighters and conducting ongoing in-service training for all members of the department. The activities of the Training Division are driven by the specific internal needs of TFD and the regulatory requirements of external agencies.

Fire Prevention Week – October 2013


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TRAINING DIVISION Operations - Total

Training Hours Other Staff - Total

Training Hours Training

Individual Firefighter Standards 24,828.75 598.25

Reading Assignments 7,716.50 161.25

Engine Company Standards 3,293.00 22.25

Ladder Company Standards 3,134.00 54.75

Battalion Chief, Captains and Multi-company Training 6,992.00 92.00

Hazmat Drills 1,560.25 93.00

Marine Services Drills 827.50

Technical Rescue 1,159.50 32.00

Fire Communications 996.00 6.5

Prevention Bureau 6.00

Paramedic Additional Training 3.00 16.00

Formal Training 12,544.50 250.25

Training Totals 63,062.25 1,326.25

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Emergency management staff provides disaster preparedness, plan development, and training to citizens, businesses, and government to increase our ability to survive both natural and manmade disasters. Highlights in 2013 include the on-going development of Continuity of Operations Plans with City Departments to ensure that local government functions in the aftermath of a major disaster, and the update and promulgation of the City of Tacoma Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. Emergency Management staff also coordinated the procurement and installation of the


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Port Emergency Warning System and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes to prepare citizens to help themselves and neighbors during times of crisis, and participation in numerous functional exercises to help develop a resilient response system.

HARBOR MASTER

TFD is responsible for enforcing the regulatory aspects of the City of Tacoma Harbor Code. In 2013, code amendments established no-wake zones in the Thea Foss Waterway and within 1,000 feet of any marine fueling docks. These changes to the Harbor code were designed to improve public safety and reduce spillage at marine fueling docks.

In coordination with local marinas and the Metro Parks Department, the TFD Harbor Master worked to identify possible derelict boats, illegally

anchored boats, and vessels operating unsafely. TFD also worked with the Foss Waterway authority and Citizens’ for a Healthy Bay to create a safe waterway. TFD citied more than a dozen vessels, impounded and disposed of one vessel, and worked with the Department of Natural Resources for the safe removal of the derelict vessel Golden West.

FIRE GARAGE

The Fire Garage is the vehicle maintenance facility responsible for the repair and maintenance of all TFD ladder trucks, fire engines, medic units, fireboats, and light duty vehicles. Fire Garage personnel are also responsible for ordering, stocking, and delivering supplies to all TFD facilities via a messenger and supply delivery service, and the maintenance of all small tools and equipment used by TFD.

2013 highlights include putting a new pumper, medic unit, three squads and a bucket truck apparatus into service. Mechanics also completed a substantial refit of the hazardous materials apparatus, including the installation of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment with a modified electrical system. Finally, mechanics replaced the air compressor on our mobile air unit and at the station.


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FIRE ELECTRICIANS

The TFD Electrical Maintenance Division consists of four electricians involved in a variety of tasks; maintaining the municipal alarm system, maintaining communication equipment, making electrical repairs and electrical upgrades, and several other large-scale projects.

2013 highlights included establishing a fiber optic link from Fire Communications to South Sound 911, power upgrades for the 800 MHz radio sites, the installation of numerous networked Hazmat Weather Stations and, through Tacoma Power’s Bright Rebates Program, finished a complete lighting upgrade to Fire Station 2.

FIRE BUFFS BATTALION

Tacoma/Pierce County Fire Buff Battalion was formed November 23, 1986, with the primary mission of supporting firefighters engaged in firefighting activities. The services delivered range from providing food and drinks to on-scene personnel to the documentation of fires and on-scene activities. The Tacoma Professional

Firefighters Local #31 supports the Fire Buffs by allowing Tacoma firefighters to contribute to the Fire Buffs with voluntary payroll deductions. This money is used for insurance and upkeep for the canteen vehicle and for food supplies.

The Tacoma/Pierce County Fire Buff Battalion is a member of the International Fire Buffs Association, an organization of local fire buffs clubs in many cities throughout the US and Canada. The buffs provided assistance at 85 incidents in 2013.


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PERSONNEL HIGHLIGHTS

MEDAL OF VALOR

The department’s highest award, the Medal of Valor, is presented to firefighters who demonstrate acts of bravery and heroism in an extremely hazardous situation.

After arriving at Owen Beach in Point Defiance Park for an unrelated 911 call, Ladder 3 firefighters spotted John Bronson swimming in the water near an overturned canoe. Rebecca Thayer-Blunt, Bronson’s step-daughter, swam out to help Bronson get the canoe back to the beach, but the two were unable to do so by themselves. As the Ladder 3 crew assembled equipment to assist from shore, Bronson began struggling to keep his head above water, submerging several times. Firefighter Ann Craig entered the water and swam to Bronson. With Thayer-Blunt’s assistance, Craig towed Bronson about 40 feet back to shore, where Bronson was medically evaluated, warmed, and then released at the scene.

Certificates of Commendation were also presented to Captain Jennifer Gunnel, Firefighter Jack Hawkins, and Rebecca Thayer-Blunt for their role in the rescue efforts.

Medal of Valor Award, Ann Craig, Firefighter

Letter of Commendation: Jennifer Gunnel, Captain – Jack Hawkins, Firefighter – Rebecca Thayer-Blunt, Civilian

Chief Duggan and FF Ann Craig – March 2013


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PROMOTIONS

EMPLOYEE CLASSIFICATION

Toryono Green Deputy Chief

Roger Edington Assistant Chief

Patrick McElligott Assistant Chief

Michael Mitchell Assistant Chief

John Pappuleas Administrative Battalion Chief

Doug Kimball Battalion Chief

Michael Johnson Fire Captain

William Poplin Fire Lieutenant

Christopher Rady Fire Lieutenant

Jeffery Wurts Fire Lieutenant

Edward Gregory Fire Lieutenant

Grant Larsen Fire Lieutenant

Judy Esqueda Firefighter-Paramedic

Yvonne Chisa Customer Service Rep, Lead

Ute Weber Management Analyst III


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2013 NOMINATIONS FOR CHIEF’S AWARD A Shift

Mark Wagner Ken Brown Erik Keyes Troy Whitney

Walter Christensen Dean Edwards Scott Ruijters Reuben Baltazar

Andrew Cylkowski Trent Wohlfeil David England Tory Tolefree

Gary Pennington Seth Brothers Dean Giuntoli Tina Bowman

William Poplin Paul Purdy Richard Turley Michael Johnson

Patrick McElligott Benjamin Flesher Ryan Mudie Mindy Tanner

Joshua Tackett Karen Leming Joshua Haia Vinis Harrington

Kurt Gordon Kevin Tunison David McRoberts

B Shift

Douglas Kimball Christopher Bunker Tom Hardy Jennifer Wurts

Forrest Huiatt Kristina Stringer Dennis Wickstrom Bruce Baurichter

Kyle Schneidmiller Marquis Pounds Barry Kaperick Timothy Jensen

John McAuliffe Adam Lowrie Craig Maki John Cassman

Wayne Wienholz Anthony Wilds Mark Maderos Ted Wold

Daniel Elgin Brian Franklin Zachary Prida Doug Campbell

Morris Carter Fred Lawson Ryan Anderson Richard Stevens

C Shift

Justin Wake Craig Pollock Kristin Elmer Kenneth Horsman

David Barrett James Perrault Steve Little James Lee

Robert Wells Craig Ehnert Jim Parmelee Keith Thomas

Baigeh Tucker Ann Craig Jennifer Gunnell Randy Eichholtz


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Christopher Rady Cameron Oswald Kyle McCormack Patrick Emond

Michael Langendorf Zach Chandler Pete Jasper Jeffery Nighswonger

Eric Fossand Wade Greatwood Michael Boulware Matthew Fleming

Peter-Glen Malit Randy Hartman Wilfredo Yuste Nicholas Wilson

Stephen Johnston Jim Lipke

D Shift

Matt Graham Christopher Robak Andrew Leitner Patrick Rapozo

David Snode Russell Ivy Patrick Tucci Michael Curley

Michael Oberstar Katherine van den Brandt Jeremy Marroquin Aaron Setunsky

Brian Dougherty Andrew Woodall Jacob Beard Bryson Correa

Phillip Erickson Frank Mottl Christopher Galbraith Shannon Gibson

Scott Streeper Paul Copsey Scott Nicholson Jack Hawkins

Joseph Van Meter Mary Howatson

Day Shift

Chris Atkinson John Lawrence Martin Zehnder Roger Edington

Mike Fitzgerald Carolyn Sexauer Lee Law


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PERFECT SCHEDULE Michael Barr Kevin Caillier Morris Carter Lincoln Correa

Ann Craig James Duggan Roger Edington David England

Allen Estes Dyre Fudge Edward Heisler Russell Ivy

Phillip Kagelmacher Dave Kaiser Jonathan Kammerzell Adam Lowrie

Jeremy Marroquin Patrick McElligott Matthew McSharry Joe Meinecke

Michael Mitchell Ryan Mudie Faith Mueller Kurt Mueller

Derrick Murrell Michael Newhouse Patrick Rapozo Scott Ruijters

Andrea Schroder James Scott Brian Tackett Baigeh Tucker

Kevin Tunison Miguel Vichot Melinda Walter Ute Weber

Tom Zurfluh

NEW EMPLOYEES Liam Riley Fire & Marine Diesel Mechanic

Tira Jacobs Financial Assistant

Cory Blair Program Technician EM

RETIREMENTS Jon Chaffey,

Battalion Chief

Class of 1985

Steve Curry,

Lieutenant

Class of 1995

Lisa Breitinger,

Paramedic Program Coordinator


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PERSONNEL ASSIGNMENTS (AS OF DECEMBER 01, 2013)

Battalion 1

A - Shift B- Shift C-Shift D-Shift

B01 BC Fudge Jr., Dyre E. Zuluaga, James D. Davis, Jolene D. McRoberts, David

B01 ROVCPT

Perry, Christopher E.

B01 ROVLT Wagner, Mark H.

Wake, Justin R.

B01 ROV

Graham, Matt J.

CSR1 BC

Correa, Lincoln J.

CSR1 PMFF1 Scratch, Frank P. Brakebush, John E. Pollock, Craig H.

E04 OFF Whitney, Troy A. Hardy, Tom L. Miller, Dean S. Gorre, Edward O.

E04 DR Brown, Kenneth C. Tuttle, David R. McCarty, Klint J. Cunningham, Brian G.

E04 3RD Keyes,Erik V. Bunker, Christopher B. Cutright, Ervin J. Simpson, Christian J.

E09 OFF Edwards, Dean F. Wurts, Jeffrey R.

Barthe, Gilbert M.

E09 DR Christensen, Walter Carney, Jeffrey J. Horsman, Kenneth L. Rohde, Daren R.

E09 3RD Ruijters, Scott R. Connelly, Kristin M. Elmer, Kristin M. Woinowsky, George C.

E14 OFF Wohlfeil, Trent R. Wickstrom, Dennis W.

Leitner, Andrew P.

E14 DR Baltazar, Reuben L. Huiatt, Forrest D. Perrault, James E. Rapozo, Patrick P.

E14 3RD Cylkowski, Andrew F. Stringer, Kristina A. Barrett, David S. Snode, David A.

E16 OFF England, David L. Frank, Albert G. Little, Steve R. Tucci, Patrick C.

E16 DR Hancock, Wayne H. Anderson, Bryan G. Teitenberg, Terry A.

E16 3RD Tolefree, Tory J. Gormanous, Phillip S. Drexler, Philip T. Woodall, Andrew D.

E17 OFF Pennington, Gary A. Zurfluh, Thomas D. Lee, James R. Pfander, William C.

E17 DR Moore, John W. Baurichter, Bruce D. Pennington, Dale K. Ivy, Russell L.

E17 3RD Montgomery, Gary L. O'Leary, Daniel S. Wells, Robert J. Maehren, Peter J.

E17 4TH Trunk, Nicholas J. Berg, Daniel J. Brakebush, Anthony P. Snodgrass, Dwight C.

L03 OFF Giuntoli, Dean T. Stevens, Mark A. Gunnell, Jennifer K. Curley, Michael N.

L03 DR Hammett, Scott W. Elmer, Steven M. Craig, Ann M. Oberstar, Michael J.

L03 3RD Brothers, Seth Schneidmiller, Kyle T. Hawkins, Jack R. van den Brandt, Katherine

M01 INCHG Poplin, William T. Knecht, Brian J. Rady, Christopher W.

M01 DR Bowman, Tina M. Pounds, Marquis G. Eichholtz, Randy J. Robak, Christopher A.

M04 INCHG Turley, Richard H. Kaperick, Barry A. Oswald, Cameron S. O'Brien, Sean P.

M04 DR Purdy, Paul L. Bush, Jeffrey D. Jangard, Brooke M. Diedrich, John E.

SQ13 OFF Johnson, Michael S. McAuliffe, John P.

SQ13 DR McElligott, Patrick R. Jensen, Timothy L.


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TA1 T2

Gutierrez, David P.

Battalion 2

B02 BC Flesher, Benjamin H. Estes Jr., Allen W. Hardy, Brian M. Scott, James R.

B02 ROVLT Gregory, Edward T.

Langendorf, Michael L.

B02 ROV

Colwell Jr, William

B02 ROV

Lowrie, Adam M.

CSR2 SAFLT Wilsie, D. Alex

CSR2 HAZOF

Carlson, Sharon S.

CSR2 HAZFF

Ritch Jr, Larry A. Tingley, Bret K.

CSR2 PILOT Fish, Duane H.

CSR2 PMFF1 Mudie, Ryan J.

McSharry, Matthew Greatwood, Wade T.

E01 OFF Collett, Brett J. Tackett, Brian T. Jasper, Peter J. Klobutcher, Peter T.

E01 DR Frank, Matthew A. Maki, Craig D. Nighswonger, Jeffrey W Stevens, Daniel W.

E01 3RD Hawkins, Rory D. Montgomery, Jared L. Chandler, Zach S. Olesen, Ole C.

E02 OFF Brink, Christopher R. Wilds, Anthony J. Corn, Carl N. Crider, Michael E.

E02 DR Tackett, Joshua M. Wienholz II, Wayne A. Fossand, Eric W. Setunsky, Aaron L.

E02 3RD Tanner, Mindy J. Cassman, John W. Chlipala, Brian A. Kammerzell, Jonathan C.

E03 OFF Riley, Sean P. Maderos, Mark J. Mathews, Peter S. Waterworth, Stacy A.

E03 DR Wurts, Jennifer SH. Moody III, Bill B. Smith, Conrad M. Howatson, Mary Claire

E03 3RD Shipp Jr, Clifford J. Wyrwitzke, Jeffrey L.

E03 4TH Olesen, Stephanie N. Anderson, James R.

Gleason, Jill A.

E12 OFF Garrison, Deborah L. Sollars, Christopher L. Boulware, Michael F. Stoddard, Paul R.

E12 DR Leming, Karen M. Acton, William T. Ubben, Nanci A. Tresness, Jeffrey T.

E12 3RD Hampton, Kristopher J Villa, Timothy M. Oakes, Danial T.

L01 OFF Magliocca, Todd A. Jackson, Tad E. Lipke, James R. Shelley, Richard M.

L01 DR Heseltine, Richard L. Wold, Ted S. Emond, Patrick S. Williamson, Wayne A.

L01 3RD Vichot, Miguel A. Roberts, Jamie M. McCormack, Kyle W. Beard, Jacob A.

L01 4TH Hesse, Scott S. Schiemer, Robert L. Fleming, Matthew J. Correa, Bryson J.

L04 OFF Miller, Steven G. Smith, Warren D. Saxon, Steven A. Blanchard, Laura S.

L04 DR Snyder, Mark I. Parnell, William W. Hawks, Steven J. Miller, William J.

L04 3RD Harrington, Vinis C. Proper, Steven M. Limbrick, Dennis W. Dideon, Christopher D.

L04 4TH Haia, Joshua D.

Malit, Peter-Glenn A. Junkin, Neil A.


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M03 INCHG Clausen, Richard A. Schroeder, Andrea M. Hupp, Lowell J. Reid, Lee J.

M03 DR Gordon, Kurt B.

Hartman, Randal C. Rucker, Camille K.

TA2 T1

Moorman, Pamela J.

Battalion 3

B03 BC Kimball, Douglas W. Chandler, Jeffery A. Vaughn, Dale L. Manglona, Ray A.

B03 ROVPM

Spoonemore, Thomas B.

B03 ROVLT

Larsen, Grant R.

Erikson, Philip J.

B03 ROVLT2

Semingson, Damon J.

CSR3 PMFF1 Spencer, Jason M. Chamberlin, Adam D. Wilson, Nicholas P.

E07 OFF Heisler, Edward B. Carpenter, Shon V. Hall, Randy M. Rivers, Darren S.

E07 DR Binkiewicz, Jordan M. Wesenberg, Brad G. Hanna, Craig A. Roberts, Jeffery S.

E07 3RD Ellis, Zachary B. Eubanks, Shane M. Wood, Christopher N. Page, Amanda S.

E08 OFF Porter, Vernon R. Elgin, Daniel K. Collins, Stephen S. Mathews, Michael S.

E08 DR Woyak, Terry P. Franklin, Brian D. Schieferdecker, Kurt D. Mottl, Frank T.

E08 3RD Vietzke, Cory M. Prida, Zachary L. Murphy, Marya A. Swenson, Eric A.

E10 OFF Farstad, Ryan M. Kaiser, David A. Juntini, Scott A. Dubree, James E.

E10 DR Nelsen, William W. Ferguson, Michael R. Barron, Daniel D. Galbraith, Christopher

E10 3RD McCallum, Kelly R. Holden, Neil A. Gutjahr, Joey E. Streeper, Scott A.

E10 4TH Muenz, Alex J. Walling, Ryan M. Chaffey, Peter A. Gibson, Shannon L.

E11 OFF Sowers, Paul A. Carter, Morris P. Austel, William J. Dougherty, Brian S.

E11 DR Roland, Greg E. Campbell, Douglas W. Brown, Nathan P. Becker, James E.

E11 3RD Sanchez, Andres R. Murrell, Derrick A. Martinez, Jose Baurichter, Kattie D.

L02 OFF Powers, Robert J. Lawson, Fred H. Caldwell, Anthony L. Nicholson, Scott G.

L02 DR Williams, Gary W. Yuste, Wilfredo T. Sumner, Kelly E. Copsey Jr., Paul D.

L02 3RD Carlisle, Matthew D. Marroquin, Jeremy J. Johnston, Stephen M. Jones, William H.

M02 INCHG Barr, Michael R. Novak, Casey J. Johnson, Kristopher N.

M02 DR Esqueda, Judy M. Anderson, Ryan W. Weinman, Matthew W. Diedrich, Christine M.

M05 INCHG Goddu, John F. Lynch, James D. Hallman, Mary M. Stallings-Alailima, Sionna

M05 DR Bieker, Ronald F. Stevens Jr, Richard M. Malsch, Rachel M. Schlesner, Joshua E.

SQ15 OFF Brassard, Darren J. Nygard, Mark F. Cabrera, Derek G. Bleasdale, John R.

SQ15 DR Stohr, Bret D. LoCicero, James A. Ridgeway, Marlon L. Van Meter, Joseph M.


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Safety Lieutenant

142 SAFLT Tunison, James K. Piper, Christopher J. Owen, Thomas C. Bly, Jonathan R.

Fire Communications

FCCCP Mueller, Kurt A.

FCCCTO Caillier, Kevin E.

FCCOFF Jasmer, Patrick C. Murphy, Darin T. Elmer, David R. Wilson, Ronald D.

FFDISP1

Ehnert, Craig A. Schumaker, Renate C.

FFDISP2 Davis, Sarah J. Harkins, Steven C. Combs, Aaron C.

FFDISP3 Dougherty, Sean P.

FFDISP4 Stephenson, Gerald C. Kagelmacher, Philipp A. Tucker, Baigeh J.

TRNDISP Heileson, Edward O.

Fire Prevention

DFM Boczar, Susan J.

ADM ASST Bowen, Linda L.

INSP Bowers, Robert R.

INSP Chandler, Nels B.

INSP Hansen, Kenneth M.

INSP Pickford, Thomas A.

INSP Spencer, William E.

EOCOR Weber, Ute

EOCOR Blair, Cory A.

SFTED Stowell, Marja L.

Fire Training

CPTSFTY Bouyer, Bruce G.

CPTRN Law, Lee A.

PMTRN Bambrick, Jeff R.

Fire Administration

CHIEF Duggan, James P.

DPCHF Green, Toryono L.


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DPCHF Mueller, Faith M.

ASCHF Edington, Roger L.

ASCHF McElligott, Patrick K.

ASCHF Mitchell, Michael S.

FMSO Newhouse, Michael E.

ADMBC Pappuleas, John J.

Fire Garage

SMECH Stearns, Richard D.

MECH Bayeur, Brian T.

MECH Haeger, Carol A.

MECH Howard, Paul C.

MECH Huppert, Theodore K.

MECH Riley, Liam S.

MECH Sheard, Steven L.

MECH Voigt, Donald R.

Fire Electricians

SPELC Easton, Chris L.

ELECT Atkinson, Christopher J.

ELECT Lawrence, John D.

ELECT Zehnder, Martin W.

HQ Staff

ENGN Erickson, Ryan F.

ADMGR Fitzgerald, Michael P.

CRO Meinecke, Joseph E.

ASCTY Walter, Melinda M.

CSREP Chisa, Yvonne M.

FINAST Dundas, Peggy J.

FINAST Jacobs, Tira

FINAST Johnston, Karen M.

FINAST Milliren, Donna G.


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ADM ASST Sexauer, Carolyn A.

SYSPR Burris, Celeste Suliin

SYSPR Dykas, Veronica C.

SYSPR Lewandowsky, Debra K.

SYSPR McCoy, Sheila M.

SYSPR Nunn, Michael L.

SYSPR Stock, Matthew S.


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PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT The Tacoma Fire Department adheres to the guidelines set forth from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) to establish, maintain, and oversee departmental performance management.

Tacoma Fire Department Response Totals (Final Situation Found)

2010 2011 2012 2013

Fire 975 1,057 1,144 1,058

% increase/decrease (-21.2%) 8.4% 8.2% (-7.5%)

EMS 25,116 25,153 26,275 26,923

% increase/decrease (-1.6%) 0.1% 4.5% (2.4%)

All other 12,130 11,520 11,440 11,263

%increase/decrease 3.6% (-5.0)% (-0.7%) (-1.5%)

Total 38,221 37,730 38,859 39,244

%increase/decrease (-0.7%) (-1.3%) 3.0% 1%

TACOMA FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONSE STANDARDS

TFD response standards specify the minimum criteria needed to effectively and efficiently deliver fire suppression, emergency medical services, and special operations response. These response standards protect the citizens of Tacoma and the occupational safety and health of Tacoma firefighters. For the purposes of this report, the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, Fire & Emergency Service Self-Assessment Manual, 8th Edition, and Standards of Cover, 5th Edition was used as a guideline in the development of TFD response standards.


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Call Processing Time

TFD call processing time standard is 90% of all 911 calls dispatched in 90 seconds or less. (Phone pickup to first company assigned)

Year % standard met Actual Performance at 90%

2013 78.2% 1:53

2012 83.3% 1:44

2011 83.7% 1:43

2010 75.4% 1:58

Turnout Times

TFD turnout time standard is 90% of the turnouts being completed in 90 seconds or less. (Time the company is assigned to en-route)


2013 70.9% 2:03

2012 74.7% 1:58

2011 71.1% 2:04

2010 70.8% 2:03


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First Arriving Company On-Scene—Suburban

TFD total response time standard for the first arriving company on-scene of an emergency is 9:30 or less for 90% of incidents. (call received to on-scene)


2013 91.5% 9:09

2012 92.0% 9:01

2011 93.4% 8:42

2010 92.4% 8:58

First Arriving Company On-Scene—Urban Zone

TFD total response time standard (call processing + turnout + travel time) for the first arriving company on-scene of an emergency is 8:12 or less for 90% of incidents.


2013 88.9% 8:32

2012 90.6% 8:03

2011 92.7% 7:30

2010 90.6% 8:01


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Advanced Life Support TFD total response time standard for the first arriving medic company at an Advanced Life Support Emergency is 10:30 or less for 90% of incidents. (call received to on-scene)


2013 78.9% 12:56

2012 80.1% 12:40

2011 81.2% 12:41

2010 80.9% 12:32

Response Totals by Company Company 2010 2011 2012 2013

Engine 1 3,560 3,470 3,527 3,916

Engine 2 3,002 2,854 2,769 3,237

Engine 3 808 917 967 1,028

Engine 4 2,580 2,469 2,592 2,799

Engine 6 749 758 834 76

Engine 7 2,675 2,819 2,995 2,926

Engine 8 2,949 2,867 2,771 2,956

Engine 9 2,830 2,745 2,799 2,987

Engine 10 3,073 3,071 3,298 3,470

Engine 11 3,362 3,325 3,415 3,473

Engine 12 1,891 1,863 1,915 2,081

Engine 13 1,772 1,774 1,809 299

Engine 14 1,331 1,371 1,509 1,392


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2010 2011 2012 2013

Engine 15 2,439 2,325 2,526 810

Engine 16 2,747 2,622 2,904 3,016

Engine 17 2,227 2,275 2,306 2,439

Squad 13 1,041

Squad 15 1,604

Ladder 1 2,071 2,119 1,967 2,247

Ladder 2 1,872 1,845 1,676 1,792

Ladder 3 1,652 1,584 1,430 1,664

Ladder 4 886 774 814 907

Medic 1 2,622 2,570 2,683 2,606

Medic 2 3,445 3,372 3,503 3,311

Medic 3 1,570 1,610 1,642 1,611

Medic 4 3,544 3,591 3,603 3,632

Medic 5 3,530 3,525 3,695 3,576

Medic 6 (peak-time)

537 575 196 82

Battalion 1 1,014 752 747 881

Battalion 2 1,679 1,265 1,224 1,379

Battalion 3 390 814 787 899

Safety 142 485 1,067 1,246 1.269

Fireboat(s) 131 70 148 111


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NOTABLE INCIDENTS DATE LOCATION ESTIMATED LOSS

1/22/13 1601 S. Union Ave $1,500,000

Description: Crews found heavy flames and smoke showing from a dining room facility next to the independent living building on campus. Crews began an aggressive fire attack, and called a second alarm to bring in additional resources to assist with evacuating the occupants of the 7 story apartment. Heavy smoke had traveled from the building of origin through an enclosed breezeway that connected the two buildings and required the first two floors of the independent living facility to be completely evacuated. Initially, occupants on floors 3-7 sheltered in place. And once the smoke had been removed, all 144 occupants were evacuated from the building. The cause of the fire was an electrical malfunction in a room adjacent to the dining room. Twelve patients were transported to area hospitals for evaluation and treatment, with one patient succumbing to injuries and passing away at the hospital.

7/25/13

3021 S. Wilkeson St.

$225,000

Description: The first arriving company found an approximately 50 x 50 fire burning in a section of a large commercial foundry manufacturing building. Command staff quickly called for a second alarm bringing over 40 fire personnel to the scene. For an undetermined reason, a portion of the roof above a molten metal castings operation collapsed onto the hot material and caught fire. The fire was contained to the area of origin. All employees were able to escape without harm, and there were no injuries to report.


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1/21/13 3130 59th Ave NE $165,000

Description: The first arriving engine company found a fully involved house fire that had vented through the roof of the 970-square-foot single-story home. Crews took a defensive strategy against the well-entrenched blaze and protected the home nearby exposed to the intense heat and flames.

The home’s two occupants were able to escape safely and there were no injuries to report.

4/11/13 2920 S. Cushman $144,800

Description: The first arriving company found heavy smoke showing from the large commercial plywood manufacturing facility. Crews made an aggressive interior attack with a 2½-inch hose line and knocked the fire down that had erupted in a plywood laminating machine. Firefighters also extinguished hot spots, ventilated the building and confirmed that no one was trapped inside. There were no injuries to report.

8/20/13 6234 S. Tacoma Way $144,000

Description: The first arriving engine company found heavy flames and smoke showing from the roof of the one-story tavern business. Initially crews mounted an interior attack but moved to a defensive strategy as the well-entrenched fire compromised the structural stability of the building. A single employee was in the business at the time of the fire and was able to escape without harm. The cause of the fire was determined to be embers from a weed burning propane torch operation that ignited the fire. The fire was concealed inside the exterior wall of the building until it eventually burned its way up to the roof of the structure.


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9/20/13 5830 S. Pine St

Description: At 9:34 a.m., a single engine company was dispatched for an odor investigation at Edison Elementary School. Upon arrival firefighters noticed a heavy odor in the building and, with students and staff reporting feeling light headed and nauseated, they quickly upgraded the incident to a Hazardous Materials Mass-Casualty-Incident, bringing numerous resources to the scene.

Operationally, a triage center was established in the playground while the entire school was evacuated. Medics evaluated about 50 students and staff, and 18 of those patients were transported by private ambulance to area hospitals, and 29 were transported by a school bus to an area hospital. All patients were transported for precautionary reasons, and there were no serious injuries to report from the incident. A leaf blower being used for maintenance on the roof of the structure allowed noxious fumes to enter an HVAC air intake, where it was distributed inside the school with varying levels of concentration.

9/26/13 S. 19th & S. “I” St.

Description: At 1:17 p.m. Tacoma Firefighters from Stations 1, 2 and 4 responded to a reported two-car motor vehicle crash. The first arriving company found two cars that hit head-on in the intersection of S. 19th and S. "I" Street and three additional cars, including one vehicle landing on top of a parked car about 100 feet down "I" street. Crews worked quickly to assess all parties involved, and a total of four patients were transported to area hospitals as a result of injuries sustained in the accident.


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STRATEGIC INITIATIVES TFD uses a strategic planning process to assure that department initiatives align and support the overall goals of the Tacoma City Council, City Manager, and the citizens we serve.

COMPREHENSIVE EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

The City of Tacoma is recognized by the state of Washington as a political subdivision that is responsible for emergency management. The City of Tacoma is required to have a plan to tie us into the framework of the local-state-federal efforts. More importantly, the plan guides Tacoma city officials and community representatives during a major emergency or disaster, to help us do the best we can to keep our citizens and their property safe. In 2013, the plan was revised and promulgated by the City Council.

NONEMERGENCY RESPONSE

In 2013, TFD focused on two initiatives to provide citizens with the most appropriate resources for their request for service and that reduced the overall number of nonemergency responses.

FD CARES

TFD implemented the first of a three-part program designed to reduce the impact of non-emergent calls for assistance on emergency response resources. The Fire Department Community Assistance, Referral and Education Services (FD CARES) program is designed to: (1) connect high-utilizers of the 911 system with more appropriate resources; (2) provide preventative health-literacy education to those living in areas or facilities of high 911 utilization; and (3) provide low-acuity in-home follow-up care to those recently seen by EMS professionals or discharged from local hospitals and clinics. Implementation of the first part of the program alone resulted in a 43% decrease in the number of non-emergent calls for assistance TFD received from those identified as high-utilizers of 911.

NURSE LINE

In December 2013, TFD began a pilot project that seeks to provide citizens who call 911 for nonemergency requests the option of discussing their medical health concerns with a registered nurse.


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SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS

In an effort to decrease TFD’s environmental footprint, the following initiatives were implemented in 2013.

• Lighting—Partnered with Tacoma Public Utilities Bright Rebates Program to begin a multi-phase initiative to replace antiquated lighting in fire stations with contemporary, energy efficient lighting.

• Idle reduction initiative to reduce diesel fuel emission—Worked with the Department of Ecology and Puget Sound Clean Air Agency to identify funding sources to retrofit apparatus with lithium-ion battery packs to power emergency lights and electrical systems.

CAD-TO-CAD INTERFACE

A Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system upgrade was completed with TFD’s contracted private ambulance company. The upgrade now allows for computer-to-computer automatic dispatch for a private ambulance to the scene of an emergency. Previously, TFD dispatchers had to make a phone call to the ambulance company’s dispatch center to coordinate a response. This efficiency improves both dispatch times and unit response times.

BEST OF THE BEST

An annual tradition, the Best of the Best competition provides a friendly platform for department personnel to display their skills and abilities. This year’s challenge: donning Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). This year’s winners were Engine 1 “C” Shift (Lt. Pete Jasper, Firefighter Jeff Nighswonger and Firefighter Zach Chandler) who had the best combined average time – 25.6 seconds.

FIREFIGHTER SAFETY

The Department was awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for $742,498 to purchase up to 163 sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBAs).

Firefighters wear SCBAs along with their protective clothing not only when fighting structure fires, but also anytime respiratory protection is needed in order to work safely and effectively in a hazardous environment. Each set includes a high-pressure 45-minute air bottle, breathing regulator, frame, harness, full face piece, and a spare bottle.


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LIFEPAK 15 CARDIAC MONITORS

TFD deployed the new LIFEPAK 15 cardiac monitors. These cardiac monitors are an essential tool when responding to advanced life support incidents. LIFEPAK 15s are the same instrument being used in local hospital emergency rooms, and they perform 12-lead EKG readings that help firefighter/paramedics determine the most appropriate treatment. Cardiac monitors also function as defibrillators, blood pressure monitors, and oxygen monitors. While TFD has used similar monitors for the past few years, the new LIFEPAK 15s will now directly communicate with our Electronic Patient Care Reporting system and will facilitate the rapid transfer of vital information to local hospital emergency rooms. The purchase of the LIFEPAK 15 monitors were partially funded by a grant awarded to TFD as part of the Metropolitan Medical Response System grant program.


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Tacoma Fire Department 901 S. Fawcett Ave Tacoma WA 98402

253.591.5737

http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?nid=168

tacoma fire department annual report 2013

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