Fire District No. 3 News 2005

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 PEND OREILLE COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT NO. 3

» DECEMBER NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District No. 3 Changes Meeting Dates
DIAMOND LAKE - Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3, in cooperation with Fire District No. 4, has changed its regular fire training night to the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.

This will enable the members of both departments to work together in training activities. This will improve emergency scene coordination as they work together more and more frequently, Chief Mark Havener said. This will also improve the communications amongst the two departments and the members will know each other better to be efficient on emergencies.

The two fire districts have established a training schedule that will bring the departments together once per quarter to practice these mutual aid skills. In addition it will improve operations by having a better understanding of the capabilities of each department.

The commissioners of Pend Oreille County Fire District 3, in response to the improved training opportunities, will be moving their monthly meeting to the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 and Fire District 4 are looking forward to the new schedule changes and increased opportunity to work more effectively together, Havener said.

Any questions regarding the fire district, can be directed to website www.pofd3.org or 509-447-5305
Published in the Newport Miner - December 21, 2005  Return to Top

Fire District No. 3 Expands Web Site
DIAMOND LAKE - The Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 announced the addition of new public education features on their Web site at www.pofd3.org, which focuses this month on fire prevention and safety for the holiday season.

Senior Safety: Each month new life safety information of special interest to residents over the age of 65 is posted in large print format for easy reading. The information this month focuses on holiday safety and emergency preparedness including a large print crossword puzzle on “Chimney Fire Safety.”

Fire Safe Kids Club: Under the watchful eye of the district's new fire prevention and safety mascot, “GUS,” children of all ages can enjoy fun online activities and win prizes as they learn about fire and life safety. Featured this month are holiday safety tips, emergency preparedness coloring book pages in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, and a “Holiday Safety” crossword puzzle.

Online Training: The newly developed Online Training area of the pofd3.org Web site allows firefighters throughout Pend Oreille County to logon to annual refresher courses and other independent study materials designed to expedite basic skills review through home study. The training this month features NIMS self-study materials adapted for slow dial-up connections and a refresher course that Training Officer Dean Keck will soon post on “Air Borne and Blood Borne Pathogens.” Firefighters should contact Officer Keck or Chief Havener at Fire District No. 3 for the user name and password needed to access these pages.

Reflective Address Signs: Secure online payment for a reflective address sign order is now available through PayPal® using any major credit card. In addition, a shipping option at a nominal fee has been added for anyone who would like to have the sign mailed to their home.
Published in the Newport Miner - December 21, 2005  Return to Top

Chief Warns Residents of Chimney Fires
DIAMOND LAKE – Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 has been busy responding to a number of incidents over the past few weeks, including several wood-burning appliance emergencies.

This past weekend the district responded to a report of a chimney fire at a residence.  Upon our arrival, flames were seen shooting out the top of the chimney and heavy smoke associated with a chimney fire.  One of first concerns with chimney fires is to assure that everyone in the house is safe and that the fire has not affected any structural part of the house, Chief Mark Havener said. With these concerns addressed firefighters then look at the best way to extinguish the chimney fire.

Since a large amount of creosote had built up in the chimney, firefighters had a difficult time extinguishing this fire.

As the time of year approaches when many people have been using their wood burning appliance for a couple of months or more, the build up of creosote becomes an issue of concern.

This chimney fire this past weekend was not threatening the structural parts of the home but as a precaution firefighters made entry into the attic space and frequently will go onto a roof to check the integrity of the chimney.

Property owners that use wood burning appliances are reminded of the need to periodically have their chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent excess buildup of creosote in the flue.

There are a few signs of a chimney fire.  First the chimney will be making a roaring sound.  This is from the large amount of air being drawn into the flue.  You may have flames or embers shooting from the top of the chimney and flue pipe may be red hot.

If you have a chimney fire, first call 911 for the fire department to respond.  Any delay in notification can lead to greater damage or injury.  Second get all members of the family out of the house if the area is unsafe.  The smoke and toxic gases may come back into the house and if the fire extends to the home, it can be deadly.  Third, close any air supply to the flue.  This may choke the fire from any oxygen and stop the burning process. If time permits, put out the fire in the fire box and discharge a dry chemical extinguisher into the flue or fire box.  If there is adequate draft, it will draw the extinguisher material up into the fire area.

The fire department will then check the home for extension and potential damage to the chimney.  After the fire has been extinguished, Havener frequently recommends that the owner have the chimney cleaned and inspected prior to using the fire box again.  The excess heat generated in the flue can damage the liner and lead to further damage if not properly repaired.

Any questions about this information can be directed to the district office at 509-447-5305. Also, visit the Web site www.pofd3.org for a training presentation on chimney fires.
Published in the Newport Miner - December 7, 2005  Return to Top

Ladies of the Lake Bring in the Holidays
SACHEEN LAKE – Over 100 people attended the Sacheen Lake 'Ladies of the Lake' annual tree lighting ceremony Sunday, Dec. 4, at Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3’s Sacheen Station.  Each child received a candy cane and gift from Santa.  Refreshments were served and Christmas carols were sung. Pictured from left are Hilde Turner, Joanie Suttle, Santa Claus, Karen Averitt, Denise Sargent, and Julie Johnson. Photo by Beryl Pielli

Published in the Newport Miner - December 7, 2005  Return to Top

Public Notice of Tax Levy Certification Meeting

Fire District No. 3 will hold a special public meeting on Tax Levy Certification on Tuesday, December 13 at 7:0 p.m. at the Fire District No. 3 Diamond Lake Station, which is located at 325272 Hwy 2, Newport, WA 99156. 

Leonard Pielli, Commissioner/Treasurer

Published in the Newport Miner  - December. 7, 2005 Return to Top

» NOVEMBER NEWS ARTICLES

Fire Damages House Near Diamond Lake
Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 responded to this house fire on Casey Road, in the North Shore area of Diamond Lake, Saturday, Nov. 12. The fire was reported to dispatch at about 7 a.m. and the blaze was under control at approximately 9 a.m., Fire Chief Mark Havener said. Upon arrival at the fire, the home was partially involved in the back and roof/attic area. Fire fighters initiated an aggressive interior attack and then had to withdraw because of the roof collapsing in the center section of the home. After the fire was under control, firefighters began overhauling hot spots and salvaging property. The fire started in the attic of the home and the cause is being considered accidental and undetermined. The homeowners were fully insured. Mutual aid was received from Pend Oreille Fire Districts No. 4 and No. 7 for water supply and manpower. The Newport Fire Department and Fire District No. 8 were also on scene and provided manpower for the overhaul of the fire. “The volunteers did an excellent job of protecting the property that was savable and no injuries were incurred at the fire,” Havener said.

Published in the Newport Miner - November 23, 2005  Return to Top

Fire District Adds New Members
Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 recently announced they have welcomed four new members to the fire district roster.  The new members have completed many of the basic firefighter training requirements and have a large amount of life experience that will lend itself well to the services provided by the department.  The new members are, from left Doug Barnett, Michelle Barnett, Michele Fisk and Noel Walker.  The new members will be responding out of the Deer Valley station and the Sacheen Lake station.  For volunteer information, visit the Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 Web site at www.pofd3.org or call the office at 509-447-5305.

Published in the Newport Miner - November 23, 2005  Return to Top

Fire District No. 3 Visits the Diamond Lake Grange
Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 Chief Mark Havener recently attended a meeting of the Diamond Lake Grange to share some fire safety information and answer questions about the district.  The session with the members provided an opportunity to discuss home fire safety, smoke detectors and the proper use and maintenance of the fire extinguishers.  Fire District No. 3 is available for your next meeting to bring you a safety presentation or just address questions you may have about the fire service.  Pictured is Havener accepting an appreciation certificate from Grange Master Henry Eiden.  Eiden was also one of the original founding members of Fire District No. 3.  For more information, visit the Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 Web site at www.pofd3.org or call the office at 509-447-4659.

Published in the Newport Miner - November 23, 2005  Return to Top

Commissioner Gary Wilkey Wins Re-election
Gary Wilkey won re-election to the Fire District  3 commission at Diamond and Sacheen lakes by a 504-398 vote over Rick Schaaf.  "I'm happy to serve the community for another six years." Wilkey said.  Schaaf said, "Gary and I were friends before the election and I hope we will continue to be."

Published in the Newport Miner - November 16, 2005  Return to Top

Thanks
"Thanks to all who voted for me.  I'm proud to be able to continue as commissioner for Fire District 3" Gary Wilkey

Published in the Newport M- November 16, 2005  Return to Top

Fire District Awarded for Management Excellence
DIAMOND LAKE – Pend Oreille Fire Protection District No. 3 recently received an award for management excellence from the Washington Fire Commissioners Association. The association annually recognizes fire districts within the State of Washington for management excellence.

This year, under the leadership of Fire Commissioner Wes Bailey, Commissioner Leonard Pielli, Commissioner Gary Wilkey and Chief Mark Havener, the Washington Fire Commissioner Association recognized Fire District No. 3 for their management excellence in providing services to the community.

The application for the award was submitted by Havener and outlined the efforts the administration has completed in service to the community.

The award highlighted public education efforts, the district Web site, the Water Tender construction project and the many grants received by the district. Many of these efforts also included the cooperation and participation of the Fire District No. 3 volunteers.

“The community should be proud of the job that the commissioners and staff completed in 2004 and 2005,” Havener said. As our members would tell anyone, they are proud to serve the community and our success is through team work.”

Fire District No. 3 always welcomes new members. See the Web site for more volunteer opportunities at www.pofd3.org.

If you have any questions, call 509-447-5305 or stop by the Diamond Lake Fire Station.  Published in the Newport Miner - November 16, 2005 

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Students Learn Fire Safety from EDITH House

"The Pend Oreille County Training Council, in conjunction with area fire departments, the Washington Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Forest Service, recently completed National Fire Month by sponsoring the EDITH House (Exit Drills In The Home) at area elementary schools. Firefighters volunteered their time to this fire education where over 700 preschool through third grade students attended.

The EDITH House is a specially designed trailer that has two floors. The first floor contains a living room and kitchen, with the second floor housing a bedroom. Local firefighters used this trailer to teach about in-home safety.

These students were taught about electrical cord, fireplace, baseboard heaters, and match hazards in the living room. In the kitchen area, firefighters explained the cause of burns to young children within this area of a residence. In the bedroom portion of the trailer, firefighters taught the children how to escape if a smoke alarm is activated (staying low to the floor). The bedroom door heats up, and the students use the back of their hand to feel what a true door would feel like if there were a fire outside of the bedroom – and are taught to choose a second exit (generally a window, or test another door, if there is one). Following these instructions, “pretend” smoke is released, tripping a smoke detector, and the students are supervised in crawling to an exit, then escaping down a fixed ladder.

Firefighters stress the need of working smoke alarms in their home, of talking with their parents and siblings about exit options and outside meeting places, and the importance of not returning to a burning residences for pets or toys.

Students are taught home fire wise outdoor safety points by area DNR and Forest Service personnel who – using the trailer to represent a house – show what not to do by placing a stack of firewood against the house, and showing a pile of leaves and wood litter, along with gasoline and a propane tank stored against or under the EDITH House. They also show how certain plants that grow against a house can pose a hazard. Then the students learn how forest fires can be started; what they can do if they see a forest fire; and how they, as citizens, can prevent forest fires. Smokey Bear was on scene to assist with this portion of the program.

Area firefighters also brought in a fire engine so that the students could be given a tour of a fire truck, along with chance to actually sit in the truck. There was a “stop-drop-and-roll” portion, and a firefighter in full turnout gear showed how the breathing apparatus looks and sounds when the firefighters have to enter a residence to affect a rescue...

...The Stratton Elementary School and Head Start in Newport session was presented on Wednesday, Oct. 26, hosted by Newport Fire Department, Fire District No. 3, Fire District No. 4, Fire District No. 8, Washington State DNR , and U.S. Forest Service.

This year, Chris Smith, chief of Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 8, coordinated the Fire Education Program. Smith has been running and training firefighters on the process of operating the EDITH trailer for the past several years. Smith believes that if one life can be saved due to this training, then all the hard work done by so many volunteer firefighters and time spent working with the students and schools is well worth while. The EDITH House trailer is owned by the Inland Empire Chiefs Association and is a part of their fire education program..."

Excerpts from Published Article in the Newport Miner - Wednesday, November 9, 2005

Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 has requested funding for next year's program through a Washington Wildland Assistance to Firefighters - Phase II grant project.  For more information about this or other fire prevention and life safety education programs, contact Fire District No. 3 Chief Mark Havener at 509-447-5305 or stop by the Diamond Lake Station at 325272 Highway 2 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays.  Return to Top

Fire District No. 3 Contains Residential Fire

The Volunteers at Fire District No. 3 recently responded to a report of a structure fire in the Sacheen Lake community.

Upon arrival at the scene, smoke was issuing from the basement of a lakefront home and the property owner was alerted to the possible fire by the smell of smoke. The property owner did the correct thing and called 911 after leaving the home. The owner did some small investigation of the origin and then attempted to fight the fire. This something we do not recommend as fires in building emit many different types of toxic gasses that can easily overcome a person not protected with breathing apparatus.

Our volunteers on Engine 31 rapidly deployed a water supply line and made a quick attack and knock down of the fire. The knockdown of the fire occurred after three minutes from arriving on scene. The attack crew received a water supply from Fire District No. 3 Tender 33.

The crews made quick work of the overhaul of the fire area and saved a home worth over $250,000. Fire District No. 3 received mutual aid from Fire District #4 and Fire District  #7. There were 12 Firefighters on scene of this incident. Pend Oreille Sheriff’s office assisted with traffic control at the scene.

The investigation of the fire determined that a faulty wire was the cause and it had arced with enough energy to catch the insulation on fire. The fire extended to the floor joist and was contained to the crawl space area in the home.
This incident is one type of call that the fire district trains for on a regular basis and the training showed that it pays off. The volunteers did an excellent job in the fire attack and water supply for the call. It is one of those rewarding experiences we get from being part of the fire service. Saving Lives and property is what this job is all about.

The fire and rescue service is one of the most diverse and challenging professions today. These diverse challenges contribute to our profession being personally rewarding.

This business is not for everyone. You need more than just a desire to help people. You need courage and dedication, assertiveness, and a willingness to learn new skills and face new challenges. And you need to have the time, for training sessions, meetings, emergency calls, maintenance of equipment, and other duties. Our service is one that calls on its members to perform hot, sweaty, dirty, and strenuous work, often in uncertain and hazardous environments. If you feel you have what it takes to meet the challenges of our business, we welcome new members to join us!

Call our office at 447-5305 or stop by the Diamond Lake Station M-F 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p. m. Published in the Newport Miner - November 2, 2005 

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POFD No. 3 Completes Water Supply Testing

Fire District No. 3 has been busy training and getting ready for the anticipated surprise water supply testing that occurred recently. The Washington Surveying and Ratings Bureau (WSRB) recently came to FD No. 3 to test our capabilities of delivering water to a fire scene to earn a credit towards our communities insurance classification rating.

WSRB is an agency that performs capability assessment of fire protection systems and departments in order to properly classify the level of risk for insurance companies in protected communities. Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 is currently a class 8 fire department and we were looking to improve the rating by demonstrating our ability to deliver fire suppression resources and water to a scene. The test includes delivering a minimum of 7500 gallons of water in a 30 minute period.

We are proud to say that we successfully completed the water supply test. The volunteers did an exceptional job of getting the equipment and water to the test site. We did not receive a passing grade for this test even though we delivered the water. The primary reason we did not “pass” was because of a lack of personnel on the scene. This is where the volunteer fire service fails many times. The lack of day time responders is limited to our personnel who work locally or are retired. The balance of our members during the day are out earning a living and work away from the community in which they volunteer for the fire service.

What does this mean to you? Well, it cries for the need for more volunteers in the rural fire service. Had we had three additional volunteers arrive to assist at the test, we would have passed the water supply test and your insurance classification would have dropped. This means that your insurance premiums also would have been reduced! I think that is something we all would appreciate.

So, our plea to all of you out there that may have an interest in joining the fire department is to call or visit the office to learn more about what we do and how you can be a part of an extremely valuable community service that is exciting and rewarding. Be a part of something really great and join your fire department!

We will be attempting the test again in the spring time and we are also improving our response capabilities with our automatic aid agreements. We will continue to train and provide the best quality service to you, our community.

If you have any questions, call or stop by the Diamond Lake Fire Station - phone 447-5305 or visit our Web site at www.pofd3.org.

Published in the Newport Miner - November 2, 2005 Return to Top

Vote for Wilkey as Fire Commissioner

To the editor:

I am writing in favor of voting for Gary Wilkey.  He is extremely well qualified to do his job as Fire District 3 Commissioner position 2 and he has done a terrific job for us since he first became a commissioner in 2002.

Gary is unusually perfect for his job because he is a firefighter--EMT, on the Hazmat Team and belongs to the Pend Oreille Valley Volunteer Rescue Association.  Some of us forget that our firefighters and rescue personnel work for all of us without any pay outside of reimbursement for out of pocket expenses for some of their training.

These people are on call 24/7 and all of them are very caring and dedicated people.  They are the ones who will come and put out a fire for you and/or do on the spot resuscitation and then provide an ambulance to take you to the hospital.  We all should appreciate the free service they provide to all of us at any time of day or night.  The key word is volunteer.  How many of the rest of us would provide such service and not get paid for it.

Do yourself, your family and your community a big favor and vote to retain Gary Wilkey.

Thank you for reading this and considering whether or not to retain such a good and dedicated man. - Rocky Beach, Usk

Published in the Newport Miner - November 2, 2005 Return to Top

» OCTOBER NEWS ARTICLES

Election 2005 Pend Oreille County

Commissioner Position 2 - Candidates

Gary Wilkey - Age: 47

Political Experience:  Pend Oreille County Fire Protection District No. 3 Commissioner from 2001 to present.

Why are you running for office?  I am currently a commissioner for Fire District 3 and would like to continue to serve in that capacity.  I am dedicated to improving fire safety and emergency response to our community.  I enjoy contributing to the management of the fire district, working with my fellow commissioners, our fire chief and district members.

What kind of issues do you believe need to be addressed?  One of the main issues that we have, and will have, is the recruitment and retention of our volunteer work force.  Rising fuel costs have become another big issue to all of us.  We are also in the building process of a new facility at Sacheen Lake.

What can the fire district do to help the public prevent fires and prepare their property for a possible response?  The fire district can best help prevent fires through public education and awareness.  I have been instrumental in implementing an information website, www.pofd3.org , and monthly public workshops.  The district also has address signs available to home and businesses to help responders identify locations.

Additional Comments:  My experience and accomplishments as a commissioner, together with my commitment to public service and my experience as a business owner, demonstrate that I am the best choice for this position.  While serving as commissioner, I have remained an active volunteer fire fighter/EMT.  I am currently on the County HazMat Team and a member of the Pend Oreille Valley Volunteer Rescue Association. I have been honored to serve as commissioner of Fire District 3.  I respectfully request your vote so I may continue serving as your commissioner. Return to Top

Frederick (Rick) Schaaf  - Age: 47

Political Experience:  Some.  I was in student government in college and met with the Governor in Olympia discussing college issues.  I try to stay current on political affairs affecting America.

Why are you running for office?  It is everyone’s constitutional right to vote and stay involved.  Replacing all elected officials is critical in keeping our country strong and honest.  Many of my fellow constituents approached me and suggested that I run for this position.  I am doing my part and stepping out of my comfort zone to do what I have the knowledge to do.  I am qualified for this position based on my past experience of 26 years serving the community as a firefighter, 22 years EMT, serving over 10 years with Fire District 3, being a Lieutenant at Sacheen Lake Station, holding a degree in business management along with owning and operating various businesses.  My goal is to keep Fire District 3 moving in a positive direction for the community.

What kind of issues do you believe need to be addressed?  The most important issues that I see is the continuation of working with Chief Havener and the other volunteers that dedicate countless hours in making Fire District 3 the best that it can be.  The implementation of automatic aid with surrounding districts, grant writing to get equipment, training and other assets that are needed, saving taxpayers thousands.  The new construction of Station No. 2 utilizing volunteer firefighters in the building process to cut costs.

What can the fire district do to help the public prevent fires and prepare their property for a possible response?  Continue to inform the public about Fire District 3’s fantastic new website to assist our community with a lot of informative information.  This district is targeting the elderly that are homebound and children with activity pages.  It can be accessed at: www.pofd3.org.  Many brochures and pamphlets are also available at Diamond Lake Station No. 1 for fire and safety preparedness.

Additional Comments: I am bringing principals, scruples and years of working knowledge to the table for the betterment and safety of the community and firefighters.  People need to stop complaining about what is wrong with our government and start doing something about it.  Let’s get America back to the way our founding fathers meant it to be!  We all need to get out of our comfort zones, vote and replace politicians.

Published in the Newport Miner - October 19, 2005  Return to Top

Firefighters Respond to Heating Related Fires

DIAMOND LAKE – Firefighters from Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 have already responded to a number of heating related fire emergencies, including a chimney fire and a fire related to the improper disposal of fire place ashes.

Fire Chief Mark Havener is reminding residents to have fireplace flues checked and cleaned prior to using the fireplace. The flue carries all of the heat and smoke to the outside of the home. When the flue is blocked with creosote buildup a potential exists to have catastrophic damage to the home.

A clean flue is the most efficient in removing the smoke and excess heat from the fireplace. A cracked or damaged fire place flue allows heat and smoke to escape to areas of the home that will not withstand those conditions and the fire can extend to the home.

Everyone one in the home should know and have the ability to escape a fire in two separate ways. By practicing these drills, the chance of injury and death is minimized he said.

The fire department is also reminding everyone to check smoke detectors. It also is a good time to change the batteries in smoke detectors. Fire District No. 3 is offering a free battery or smoke detector to residents of the district if needed. Visit their website at www.pofd3.org or call the office 509-447-5305 for more details.

It is important to properly dispose of ashes from the fire box Havener said. Many fires in or near the home are a result of the improper disposal of wood burning ashes. Make sure to use a metal container to collect the ashes and spread them out and make sure they are cold when disposing of them. A good practice is to use the ashes for soil amendments in the garden or by digging a hole and placing them there.

Published in the Newport Miner - October 19, 2005  Return to Top

Annual Tree Lighting at Sacheen Lake

SACHEEN LAKE – The Ladies of the Lake will hold their Annual Tree Lighting and social gathering on Sunday, December 4th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Sacheen Lake Fire Station.  This is a fun annual event. A chance to celebrate the holiday season and visit with neighbors and friends. There’s always great food to enjoy. Santa will make a special appearance and will have a treat for each good boy and girl. Carols will be sung before the festive outside lights are lit. Bring the family for a special holiday gathering.  Call Fire District No. 3 Auxiliary member Hilde Turner at 447-2530 if you have any questions.

Published in the Sacheen Scope - October 2005  Return to Top

School Evacuated Because of Electrical Fire

NEWPORT - Students were evacuated from Newport High School late Thursday morning after a light bulb burst, causing a small electrical fire in the ceiling of the gymnasium.  Newport Fire Chief Dale Maki said the fire was reported at about 11:45 a.m.  The damage was limited to a light fixture and the immediate ceiling tiles.  Eight firefighters from the city attended the fire along with two personnel from Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3.  Firefighters were on scene for about 45 minutes and the building was turned back over to school district officials at 12:20 p.m.
Published in the Newport Miner - October 19, 2005  Return to Top

» SEPTEMBER NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District No. 3 Celebrates Fire Prevention Week

NEWPORT – The volunteers at Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 have been busy this month in preparation for the Annual Fire prevention Week. Fire Prevention week is recognized nation wide in an effort to help reduce lives and property lost in the United States. This year’s message emphasizes fire safety with the use of candles in the home. Firefighters want to be sure that all candles are extinguished in the room when you leave. Unattended candles lead to many injuries, deaths and property loss each year in the US.

Fire District No. 3 has several year-round programs to help decrease the amount damage done by fires. One of these important programs is the Free Smoke Alarm Program. Any resident in Fire District No. 3 is eligible for a free smoke detector. “The annual statistics prove that when we have working smoke detectors in the home the chance of injury or death from a fire goes down dramatically,” Fire Chief Mark Havener said. “We want you to have a working smoke detector on each living area in your home. In addition, you must be up to date with the care and maintenance of your current smoke detectors. That means they should be checked monthly and cleaned. Twice a year, when we change our clocks, we should also change the batteries in out smoke detectors.”

Another important item with regards to fire safety is being prepared for an emergency, Havener said. By being prepared, stress associated with an emergency in the home can be greatly reduced. Part of being prepared is by having adequate road signs and having addresses posted at the end of the driveway so that responders can see where you are. Fire District No. 3 and many other departments in the county now have address signs programs in place.

With the onset of winter and colder weather, firefighters remind residents to have chimneys or fire place flues inspected and cleaned. As we enter the time of year when we will be using our wood burning appliances, the fire department see more chimney fires which can easily cause major damage to the home.

All of this information and more can be accessed on our Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 website. The address is www.pofd3.org. If you have any questions or may be interested in becoming a volunteer member of the department call 509-447-5305.   Published in the Newport Miner - October 12, 2005 

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Fire District No. 3 Station House at Diamond Lake is Equipped with a Flight Site Kit

Northwest MedStar is a non-profit critical care transport service dedicated to rapid patient transport throughout the Pacific Northwest.  Helicopter service is provided to health care facilities and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies throughout Eastern and Central Washington, Northern and North Central Idaho, Northwestern Montana and Northeastern Oregon. 

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Water Rescue Training Completed by Local EMS Personnel

Even though the summer swimming season is almost over, The Pend Oreille Valley Volunteer Rescue Association ( POVVRA) recently trained personnel in some Open Water rescue techniques.  The POVVRA is made up of EMT’s from the Pend Oreille County Fire Districts and EMS providers.  The POVVRA organization provides a training source for the continuing education that is required in Washington State to maintain competency in Pre-hospital care.

Recently at FD No. 3 Captain Perry Pearman’s home at Sacheen Lake, The POVVRA spent time in and around the water practicing Water rescue, immobilization Techniques, Rescue Breathing techniques in the water and how to remove a patient from the water while immobilized.  Members from FD No. 3, FD #4, FD #6, FD #7, FD #8 were in attendance. The training was led by FD No. 3 Captain Joanie Suttle and Chief Mark Havener.

After the training was completed all of those in attendance shared in a picnic that was provided by the members and hosted by Sheila Pearman.  A number of spouses assisted in the grilling of hamburgers and hotdogs for the picnic.

If you have an interest in becoming a volunteer EMT or Firefighter in Pend Oreille County, please give Chief Mark Havener a call at the FD No. 3 Diamond Lake Office 509-447-5305. Return to Top

Drawing for Ice Cream

The Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 Auxiliary recently completed a raffle to benefit the activities that the auxiliary performs for the fire district.  The raffle was for an ice cream sundae basket which included a $50 gift certificate for ice cream, bananas, toppings and four ice cream ceramic bowls.  Pictured is Chief Mark Havener drawing the winning ticket.  The lucky winner will be contacted by the auxiliary.  If any community member has an interest in becoming Fire District No. 3 auxiliary member, contact Beryl Pielli at 509-447-3793.  Published in the Newport Miner - September 14, 2005  Return to Top

CPR Class Most Helpful

To the editor:

I recently attended a two-hour CPR class held at the Diamond Lake Fire Station on Highway 2.  the instruction, led by Leonard Pielli, was so thorough and informative that for the very FIRST time I feel extremely confident that I will make a difference to someone's survival chances.  I cannot recommend this class highly enough.  The 20 of us that attended not only watched a TV 3D model of what was happening to the heart or brain during a heart attack, stroke or cardiac arrest, but we also learned exactly how to know if we were performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest compressions correctly.  How fortunate we are in this community to be offered these classes by the very people that actually use these techniques on a regular basis.  Please take advantage of these class offerings and be prepared to save the life of your loved one.  I promise that your experience will be very different from any classes you've taken in the past.  Instead of being confused and wondering if you'll remember what to do, you will feel very confident and extremely appreciative that you too are prepared to save a life. - Nancy Cain, Newport

Published in the Newport Miner - August 7, 2005 Return to Top  

Fire District Remembers 9/11 Victims

NEWPORT - Pend Oreille Fire District will hold a brief remembrance gathering for those who lost their lives during the events of Sept. 11, 2001, Sunday, Sept.11, at 8:30 a.m.  The agenda will include gathering and a welcome, a brief prayer for those who lost their lives, and the flag will be lowered at Station 31, and replaced with a new one, raised to half staff for the rest of the day. Return to Top

Fire District Encourages Safety with Free Smoke Detectors
DIAMOND LAKE – With the goal of providing a working smoke detector, free of charge in area homes, Pend Oreille County Fire Protection District 3 recently purchased 500 smoke detectors and 500 spare 9-volt batteries. Through a grant received from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Fire Prevention and Safety program, the purchase was made locally at Selkirk Ace hardware. Statistics show that smoke detectors save lives, but many homes are not equipped with working smoke detectors. The fire district also encourages the community to practice a fire escape plan.

To get your smoke detector or replacement battery, call or stop by the Diamond Lake fire station and sign up for delivery. The phone number at Diamond Lake is 509-447-5305. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Members of Fire District 3 will deliver a replacement battery or a new smoke detector to your home. They can also provide additional information on the correct installation and maintenance of the smoke detector.

Nearly 3,400 people died in fires at home in 2002, according to a new study released by the FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration. There has been a 50 percent reduction in fire fatalities since the introduction of smoke alarms at home, but the vast majority of fatal fires – 60 percent – occur in homes without smoke alarms. Those deaths that occur in homes with smoke alarms are often a result of dead or missing batteries in the smoke detector. Smoke alarms need to be tested frequently, and batteries need replacing every six months.  Return to Top

» AUGUST NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District 3 Trains Community in CPR

DIAMOND LAKE – This past weekend Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 held a CPR class for friends and family.  Twenty-two people learned what to do in the event of an emergency from a heart attack or choking.  This was the seventh in the series of Community Fire and Health Safety Workshops offered by Fire District No. 3.  The class was led by Public Education Coordinator Leonard Pielli.  He had assistance from EMTs Captain Buck Cole of Fire District No. 3, Ken Peralta from Penderay Newsprint, Juanita Miller from Fire District No. 7, and Charlotte Demlow from Fire District No. 4.  Refreshments were provided by Fire District No. 3. Auxiliary members Julie Johnson and Doris Egland.  Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 now has a number of public education workshops.  District officials said they would be glad to come to other groups.  If you would like more information on these available workshops, please contact Chief Mark Havener at 509-447-5305. Return to Top

Pend Oreille Firefighter Training Begins This Month

NEWPORT – The Pend Oreille Fire Training Council recently announced that Basic Firefighting Training will begin this month.  The class is one of the first basic steps that a new member in the fire department takes to becoming a "combat firefighter."  The class consists of 89 contact hours and culminates in a live fire training drill.

Classes cover all of the basic firefighter topics including firefighter safety, incident command systems, protective equipment, fire behavior, ladders, ropes and knots, hazardous materials, hose and nozzles, fire attack methods much more.

If you ever had an interest in becoming a volunteer firefighter or would like to start on a new career path, this is where you can being.  The first step is to get signed up as a volunteer with the fire department in your community.  They will get you enrolled in the class.

If you have any questions contact Chief Mark Havener at Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 at 509-447-5305. Return to Top

Fire District Refurbishes New Fire Tender

DIAMOND LAKE – Pend Oreille Fire Protection District recently added a new water tender to its service through local volunteer help and a grant from the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

The grant was awarded last winter and the district had acquired the chassis for the tender through the Federal Excess property program. The chassis was picked up in Lacey, Wash. and driven to the fire district maintenance shop. The volunteers completely stripped the old body, the truck was formerly a garbage truck, Fire Chief Mark Havener said. The volunteers repainted the chassis and the cab. They also outfitted the chassis with a new fire pump and water tank. The tank came from Pennsylvania and is all fiberglass and meets all current safety standards. They rewired the truck for emergency lights and new marker lights. This new tender has a capacity of 3,200 gallons and can pump 500 gallons per minute.

The volunteers did all of the fabricating for the new fire pump, the tank mounts and the storage boxes. They also completed all of the work needed to place the vehicle in compliance with the applicable standards.

This new tender will also be available to respond to local wildland fires on a mutual aid calls throughout the region. “We hope that the new tender will be able to generate some funds from responding to regional fires for both the members that operate the tender as well as to supplement the district budget,” Havener said.

The district would like to thank all the members who participated on the project. The members provided a huge number of hours and talents to meet our portion of the “in kind” funding for the grant, Havener said. 

Published in the Newport Miner - August 10, 2005  Return to Top

Diamond Lake Donates $3,200 Locally

Published in the Newport Miner - August 5, 2005  Return to Top

Races Develop for Local Offices

» JULY NEWS ARTICLES

Volunteers Complete Fire Training

Published in the Newport Miner - Wednesday, July 27, 2005  Return to Top

Small Works Roster/POC Fire Dist. No. 3

LEGAL NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 is updating its Small Works Roster for 2005/2006. Contractors who wish to be added to this Roster need to complete an application form available at the Fire District office at 325272 Hwy 2, Newport, WA. 99156, 509-447-5305.

Applicants, where required by law, must be properly licensed or registered to perform work in the State of Washington. Contractors whose names appear on the Roster may be contacted from time to time to submit job proposals for contracts for $200,000 or less.

Qualified applicants will be placed on the 2005 Roster which will expire on July 1, 2006.

For more information:

Mark Havener, Chief
Pend Oreille County Fire District 3
325272 Hwy 2
Newport, WA 99156
509-447-5305
Published in The Newport Miner July 13 and July 20, 2005. Return to Top

Upcoming Season Challenge To Fire Service

"Diamond Lake News for Neighbors" The Diamond Lake Improvement Association - By Mark Havener, Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3 Chief

Click on PFD icon for news article.

» JUNE NEWS ARTICLES

Newport Resident Is Soroptimist Girl of the Month
NEWPORT – Sierra Wilkison, a senior at Newport High School, was honored with the Soroptimist International girl of the month award.

Wilkison has attended school in Newport since her third grade year. During her senior year she attended the running start program full time in the fall and winter quarters.

During her sophomore year of high school was when Wilkison “found my true love in life, fire fighting,” she said. She joined Pend Oreille County Fire District No. 3 in 2002 and has since been a volunteer firefighter with the district.

In early March she received her diploma and became a Washington State certified Emergency Medical Technician.

Wilkinson is currently a resident fire fighter EMT with Spokane County Fire District No. 4. This summer she plans to help out on the fire district 3 strike team by fighting wild land fires. In the future, her goal is to work for a flight transporting agency as a flight paramedic.

Wilkinson is the daughter of John and Gale Wilkison. She has two brothers, Joe and Eric. Published in The Newport Miner on June 8, 2005. Return to Top

» MAY NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District Holds Medical Emergency Workshop
DIAMOND LAKE – Pend Oreille Fire Protection District No. 3 will continue it’s public education series again on May 28, with a workshop that will present information on emergency medical events.  Public education events start at 10 a.m. on the last Saturday of the month and last about 1-1/2 hours. The firefighter auxiliary provides free coffee and refreshments. The fire district’s website is up and running at www.pofd3.org.  For additional details call the fire station at 509-447-5305.
Published in The Newport Miner on May 11, 2005. Return to Top

Ice Rescue Training Held on Sacheen Lake
SACHEEN LAKE – Local fire fighters participated in a joint ice rescue exercise on Sacheen Lake on Saturday, Feb. 22. Drill participants included Pend Oreille Fire Districts 3, 4, 6 and 7, as well as participants from the Air Force Survival Training School.  The ice was drilled and found to be 7 inches thick with intermittent layers of snow, ice and water.   Master Sergeant Dan Pehrson, Staff Sergeant Brian Ritchie and Tech Sergeant Dan Lasich of the survival school and Larry Cordes of the Pend Oreille County Dive Rescue Team wore their dry suits, plunged into the waters and served as victims.  The training consisted of ice rescue techniques, review of Incident Command and how to deal with hypothermic patients.  Ice rescue equipment is available at Diamond Lake, Sacheen Lake and the Fire District No. 4 Dalkena Station.  The public is cautioned to stay off of the ice this time of year and to call 911 if assistance is needed.
Published in The Newport Miner on May 5, 2005. Return to Top

» APRIL NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District Offers Series on Fire Prevention and Family Safety
NEWPORT – This year, Pend Oreille County Fire Protection District No. 3 is offering a series of public education workshops on fire prevention and keeping your family safe at the Diamond Lake Fire Station.

Under the direction of Fire Chief Mark Havener, Public Education Coordinator Leonard Pielli from Sacheen Lake and Public Education Volunteers Jimmy and Evelyn Johnson from Diamond Lake, the monthly workshops are on safety topics of special interest to the community.

These free Saturday workshops include interactive presentations by experienced firefighters, demonstrations, group activities, and handouts.

Members of Fire District No. 3 Auxiliary will provide refreshments for each of the sessions. All Diamond Lake fire station workshops are held on Saturdays from 10:00-11:30 a.m. The schedule of free workshops for the remainder of the year is:

Wildfire Workshop – April 30
Medical Emergency Workshop – May 28
Water Safety Workshop – June 25
Family Travel Safety Workshop – July 30
CPR for Family and Friends – Aug. 27
Fall Wildfire Workshop – Sept. 24
Chimney Fire Safety Workshop – Oct. 29
Holiday Safety Workshop – Nov. 19
Weather Wise Workshop – Dec. 17

Visit the new Fire District No. 3 website at http://www.qets.com/pofd3.htm for additional information on workshops or to learn about other Fire District No. 3 activities in the community.

For more information contact District 3 Fire Chief Mark Havener at 509-447-5305 or stop by the Diamond Lake Station at 325272 Highway 2 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays for information on all Fire District No. 3 services and programs. Published in The Newport Miner on April 27, 2005. Return to Top

Fire District Holds Wildfire Workshop
DIAMOND LAKE – Fire Protection District No. 3 is holding a wildfire prevention and family safety workshop Saturday, April 30, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Diamond Lake Fire Station.

Firefighter Leonard Pielli will provide information on ways to avoid causing a wildfire, how to create defensible space around a home, and the emergency services available to Pend Oreille County residents in the event of a wildfire. Public Education Volunteer Evelyn Johnson will share fire photos, stories of survival, and lessons learned from the 2002 Missionary Ridge Fire in Colorado, which burned for 40 days, destroying homes, injuring hundreds, and taking one life.

Fire Chief Mark Havener will join the instructors for a question and answer period at the conclusion of the presentation. Handouts on wildfire prevention, defensible space, evacuation procedures, and creating a family disaster plan will be distributed to workshop participants. Refreshments will be provided by members of the Fire District No. 3 Auxiliary.

Questions about this workshop or others planned for the future can be directed to the office at 509-447-5305 or by visiting the Diamond Lake Station Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Published in The Newport Miner on April 27, 2005. Return to Top

» MARCH NEWS ARTICLES

Fire District Holds Home Safety Inspection Workshop
DIAMOND LAKE – Pend Oreille County Fire Protection District No. 3 is holding its next workshop in a series on fire safety Saturday, March 26, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Diamond Lake Fire Station.  This workshop will be on how to perform a safety inspection on your home, how to correct any hazards that you find and what to do in an emergency.  Refreshments will be served by the fire District 3 Auxiliary.

Published in The Newport Miner on March, 2005. Return to Top

» FEBRUARY NEWS ARTICLES

Havener Completes Homeland Security Training

WASHINGTON D.C. – Mark Havener, the fire chief of Pend Oreille Fire District No. 3, recently completed training at the National Emergency Training Center of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Havener completed the National Fire Academy’s Executive Planning Course in Emmitsburg, Md., on Feb. 11. This course prepares fire service managers to evaluate options and make decisions that create a desired future while being responsive to the rapid changes encountered by today’s environment.

Homeland Security trains thousands of Americans at this facility each year to enhance the ability of communities to manage significant emergencies and disasters, both manmade and natural.

“This training helps better secure the homeland – saving lives, protecting property, and enhancing disaster planning, response and recovery across the country,” said Michael D. Brown, under secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response.

“Graduates of these training programs make a major contribution back at home, in communities such as Newport."

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident.

FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.  Published in The Newport Miner February 23, 2005. Return to Top

Fire District Holds Family Safety Workshop
NEWPORT - Fire Protection District No. 3 is holding a family fire safety workshop Saturday, Feb. 19, 10-11:30 a.m., at the Diamond Lake Fire Station, 325272 Highway 2.

Workshop participants will learn about fire prevention in the home, including how to conduct family fire evacuation drills, test methods for home smoke alarms and the correct placement and use of home fire extinguishers. Refreshments will be served by members of the Fire District No. 3 Auxiliary.

Questions about this workshop or others planned for the future can be direct to the office at 205-447-5305 or by visiting the Diamond Lake Station, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Published in The Newport Miner February 9, 2005.  

Return to Top

Fire District No. 3 Holds Awards Banquet
NEWPORT – Pend Oreille Fire Protection District No. 3 held their awards banquet Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Fire District No. 7 station on Fertile Valley Road.

Firefighter Harry England received the “Firefighter of the Year 2004” award and Firefighter Randy Pymm received the “Most Improved Firefighter 2004” award.

Firefighter Fred Lenhart received the distinction of being the first person to ever receive the “Honorary Firefighter” award for serving 20 years with Fire District No. 3. He was presented with a handmade quilt outlining the things most important to him: his children, 22 years of service in the U.S. Navy, and 20 years of service to the local fire district.

Sixty-five people attended the event.
Published in The Newport Miner February 2, 2005.   Return to Top

Thanks to The Miner
To the Editor

The volunteer of Pend Oreille County Fire District 3 would like to thank the staff of the Miner for the awesome coverage of the fire service in our communities.  The editor's column was especially nice to show how hard our volunteers work in time of need for the community.

The photo coverage really brings to light all that the fire d