Northshore Fire Department King County Fire Protection District No.16

Board Meeting Materials July 18, 2017

Board of Commissioners

David Maehren Don Ellis Eric Adman Kae Peterson Carolyn Armanini

Jim Torpin Kate Hansen Fire Chief Board Secretary

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting Agenda Tuesday, July 18, 2017

5:00PM I. Open Meeting

II. Approval of Agenda

III. Public Comment

IV. Board Discussion and Possible Action Items 4.1 Commissioner Payroll Error – Chief Torpin

o Staff Presentation regarding payroll error 4.2 Establish Fiscal Priorities for 2018 Budget – Commissioner Adman

o Review of 2018 Budget Calendar o Staff presentation of areas of potential focus o Board Discussion o Direction to Staff with no formal action pending

V. Board Resolutions 5.1 Resolution 17-03 Termination of the Randall Hurley 457 Plan

VI. Reports 6.1 Fire Chief’s Report

6.2 Commissioner Reports VII. Consent Agenda

7.1 Policy Revisions o Policy 5301 Access to District Records o Policy 2500 Employee Information and Files (Formally known as

Personnel Records) o Policy 4412 AMR Ambulance Service o Policy 2410 Recruitment and Selection of Employees

7.2 Approval of Vouchers 7.3 Approval of Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2017

VIII. Executive Session 8.1 None

IX. Adjournment Next Regular Meeting: August 1, 2017 at 5:00 PM

Northshore Fire Department Headquarters Station, 7220 181st Street, Kenmore, WA

Fire Chief’s Report Submitted by Chief Torpin

June 20, 2017 Administration/Financial: • Chief Torpin met with the second of the two candidates who filed for the open

Commission seat. • Chief Torpin completed the 2nd Quarter Shift meetings. • Chief Torpin attended a Zone 1 Fire Chiefs Meeting.

Human Resources: • Job postings were created for our internship/temporary part-time administrative

position opportunity. Phone interviews were conducted for selected candidates and in-person interviews completed the week of July 10th with HR Administrator Moore, DC Magnuson and AS Hansen.

• All participants enrolled in the Randall Hurley 457 plan have been enrolled in the State’s DCP. Letters were sent by the District to former employees to inform them of the change. A FAQ will be shared with participants soon. HR Administrator Moore and FS Killion will work with DRS to complete the balance rollover at the end of August/beginning of September. Randal Hurley has informed us there is a $500 termination fee. We have requested additional information regarding this fee.

• Created a new company profile for Northshore Fire Department on LinkedIn. Individuals who have us listed in their profile already will need to log-in to their LinkedIn account and re-add us in order to link to our company’s page.

• Presentations with each shift have been scheduled with two of our Chaplains in the winter to present information to suppression employees regarding PTSD, how it affects firefighters, and resources available to them. This presentation was set up in response to employee feedback and request to provide this information to our staff.

• Chief Torpin, HR Administrator Moore and DC Magnuson have begun work on a Career Development Guide. Changes to the evaluation process are also under consideration in an effort to enhance supervisor participation in career guidance.

Operations: • DC Magnuson continues to work with Washington State Department of

Transportation on Opticom issues throughout the fire district and seek ways to improve emergency apparatus travel.

• DC Magnuson and NORCOM Fire Liaison Josh Baker collaborated on an alarm process for out of service units. This should help dispatchers maintain accurate resource status management in the Computer Aided Dispatch system.

• DC Magnuson communicated with DC Doug Dahl of Snohomish County Fire District #1 regarding move-up units in Northshore Fire Stations and improved response resources for crews.

• First Due Size-up software trial was started by most Zone 1 agencies including Northshore Fire Department.

• Northshore Fire Department augmented staffing from 1700-0800 on July 4th to mitigate any impacts of potential fireworks related incidents. Call volume on the 4th was light with no fireworks related incidents reported within the District.

• DC Magnuson created a report for FM LaFlam for Automatic Fire Alarms at Northpointe Highlands from January 1st, 2015 through June 26, 2017.

• DC Magnuson provided Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network with locations of currently known poor radio reception areas.

• June response statistics:

Training: • The July MTA was completed by Captain Harvey and AA Kate Hansen. • Captain Harvey assisted Lt. Loutsis with preparations for a confined space rescue

drill scheduled for August. • Captain Harvey assisted FF Heilman with preparations for operations level water

rescue training. • 17 Firefighters received ATV operation training from St. Edwards State Park

Ranger Matt Birkland. Northshore Fire Department and Washington State Parks have collaborated to maintain access to the park’s “Gator” ATV for Firefighter utilization during Rescue responses in the Park. Park Rangers are no longer on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This partnership greatly enhances the speed and ease of deployment and retrieval to an injured hiker.

• Captain Harvey completed a training assessment for FF Blake’s return to work following a long term absence.

• The annual fundamental skills challenge was conducted for one shift. • DC Magnuson provided some follow-up information to Washington State Ratings

Bureau. • Captain Harvey, along with the Bellevue and Mercer Island Training Captains,

began preparations for live fire training scheduled for November.

Incident Type Group Station # %Fire 51 2 0.90%

57 2 0.90%Overpressure Rupture, Explosion, Overheat - no fire 51 0 0.00%

57 0 0.00%Rescue & Emergency Medical Service Incidents 51 100 45.05%

57 62 27.93%Hazardous Condition (No Fire) 51 4 1.80%

57 2 0.90%Service Call 51 8 3.60%

57 4 1.80%Good Intent 51 13 5.86%

57 3 1.35%False Alarm or False Call 51 18 8.11%

57 4 1.80%Severe Weather & Natural Disaster 51 0 0.00% Station 51 A-shift 1:15 Station 57 A-shift 1:10

57 0 0.00% B-shift 1:11 B-shift 1:05Special Incident Type, other 51 0 0.00% C-shift 1:14 C-shift 1:16

57 0 0.00% D-shift 1:14 D-shift 1:05Grand Total 222 100.00% AVG 1:14 AVG 1:09

Incident responses in Fire District 16Fire Department Aid Received

2

Mutual Aid

Kirkland

Aid Given41

Bothell 134

June 2017

Reaction Time Summary

0

28

Shoreline

Fire Suppression 1:22

Woodinville11 10

TOTAL 19

Redmond

001

Emergency Response Average Turnout Time

Other 1

EMS 1:04

Emergency Response Average Travel Time5157

3:383:51

Fire Prevention: • FM LaFlam delivered fire safety inspection training to the last of the four operations

crews. The training covered the purpose and goals for inspections together with an overview of the components of a thorough and effective inspection.

• FI Booth is assisting the Zone One fire investigators with the development of an instructional handout that is designed to be given to homeowners following a fire. The handout, to be utilized zone-wide, will provide direction and assistance for those recovering from a structure fire in their home.

• FM LaFlam inspected the loading of a fireworks display barge for use in the Kirkland fireworks show. He also inspected the fireworks display setups at Sheridan Beach Club and at Logboom Park.

• Chief Torpin, HR Administrator Moore and AS Hansen met to discuss the recent Open House. The purpose of the meeting was to review what went well and what could have been better for use in future events.

Northshore Emergency Management Coalition (NEMCo): • Fire Chief Torpin and DC Magnuson attended 2nd Quarter NEMCo Board meeting. • EM Lunak and FI Booth taught two First Aid/CPR classes for the City of Kenmore

staff using the new “friends and family” curriculum. The class provided an opportunity for FI Booth to observe EM Lunak teaching as required by the American Heart Association. (EM Lunak is certified by the Red Cross & will now can be certified by the American Heart Association).

• NEMCo RACES group held a training at the city of Kenmore to familiarize new amateur radio operators with the equipment at that location. 8 new operators are being trained on NEMCo equipment.

• EM Lunak performed another monthly safety training class for NUD operations personnel on June 28th and then trained all available NUD staff in First Aid/CPR as outlined in the NEMCo agreement.

• As of June 30th, EM Lunak has used slightly less hours than budgeted for NUD but anticipates an increase in hours used as development of the NUD comprehensive emergency management plan intensifies.

2018 Budget and Benefit Charge Calendar July At the second Board meeting in July (July 18th), the Board will establish fiscal priorities for the upcoming budget year.

Budget Guidelines with priorities for the upcoming year will be distributed to personnel who have program or budget responsibilities by July 31st.

August Budget Requests from program managers and division heads submitted to the fire chief by August 25th.

September At the second Board meeting in September, an update regarding the status of the budget development process will be provided (September 19th). The Board will also establish by resolution a public hearing on the budget, benefit charge and other revenue sources.

Once established, Board Secretary shall publish notice of the hearing at least fifteen days prior to the public hearing.

Throughout the month of September staff will be finalizing the draft budget workbook for presentation to the Board in October.

October At the first Board meeting in October (October 3th), the Board will receive and review the Assessor’s preliminary estimates of the jurisdictions assessed valuation.

At the second Board meeting in October (October 17th), the Board will conduct a public hearing on the budget, benefit charge and other revenue sources pursuant to RCW 84.55.120 and RCW 52.18.060(2). The final draft of the 2018 budget and reserve fund allocation, and corresponding revenue requirements will be presented to the Board and attending public.

November At the first Board meeting in November (November 7th), the Board shall approve the budget and adopt the following resolutions:

• Resolution 17-XX Benefit Charge • Resolution 17-XX Property Tax Levy • Resolution 17-XX Property Tax Increase • Resolution 17-XX Limit Factor Increase Note, the actual resolution numbers shall be determined in September.

KING COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT NO.16

7220 NE 181st Street KENMORE, WA 98028

BUSINESS: 425-354-1780 FAX: 425-354-1781

July 3, 2017

At the second Board meeting in November (November 21st), the Board shall review the previously adopted benefit charge resolution and may adjust the amount of benefit charge down to reflect any increases received with the final assessed valuation.

The Fire Chief shall forward a copy of the benefit charge resolution and approved benefit charge notification letter to Interface Systems.

Prior to November 30th, the Finance Specialist shall deliver each of the above stated resolutions along with the appropriate levy worksheet and report on the public hearing to the appropriate parties at King County (Assessor, Treasurer and County Clerk).

July 3, 2017

___________________________________________________________________________

Northshore Fire Department Deferred Compensation Plan Termination Consent of Action of the Commissioners

________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, it has been reported to the Board of Commissioners of King County Fire Protection District No. 16 that the participation in the Northshore Fire Department Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by Randal Hurley has been steadily declining; and,

WHEREAS, the membership of IAFF Local 2459 has unanimously voted to move its members to the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems Deferred Compensation Plan (DCP); and WHEREAS, Fire Chief Jim Torpin recommends King County Fire Protection District No. 16 terminate the Randal Hurley 457 Plan and subsequently transfer all remaining participants and their assets to the Washington Department of Retirement Systems Deferred Compensation Program; and THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by King County Fire Protection District No. 16 Board of Commissioners that the Randall Hurley 457 Plan be terminated effective August 31, 2017, and 100% of the plan’s remaining participants and assets be transferred to the Washington Department of Retirement Systems Deferred Compensation Program, with no further contributions to be made under the Plan; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Fire Chief or designee is authorized and directed to take any and all actions and necessary to execute the foregoing resolutions including, without limitation, causing to be prepared and filed such reports documents or other information as may be required under applicable law.

DATED this 18th day of July, 2017. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS _____________________________ ERIC ADMAN, Chair

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

KING COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT NO. 16

RESOLUTION No. 17-03

_____________________________ KAE PETERSON, Member ______________________________ DAVE MAEHREN, Member ______________________________ DON ELLIS, Member ______________________________ CAROLYN ARMANINI, Member ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of King County July 18th, 2017 _________________________________ KATE HANSEN, Board Secretary

NORTHSHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES

SUBJECT: RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF EMPLOYEES Policy Number: 2410 Approved By: Chief Torpin Effective Date: July 8, 2014 Revision Date: June XXJuly 18,

2017 Pages: 4 Attachments:

1 PURPOSE 1.1 To provide a consistent and nondiscriminatory procedure for assessing qualifications of internal

and external candidates and offering employment to qualified candidates.

2 REFERENCES 2.1 WAC 296-125-030: Prohibited and hazardous employment—All minors

2.2 Policy 2100 – Equal Employment Opportunity

2.3 Policy 2421 – Promotions

2.4 Policy 2752 – Support Staff – Exempt

3 RESPONSIBILITY 3.1 This policy applies to all employees of the District.

3.2 Management shall enforce the provisions of this policy in a fair and equitable manner consistent with the principles of equal employment opportunity.

4 DEFINITIONS 4.1 National Testing Network, Inc. (NTN) – A vendor that the District contracts with to provide

entry level and Candidate Physical Abilities Testing (CPAT) in a standardized, professional environment to individuals interested in applying for a firefighter position.

5 POLICY 5.1 The District’s selection process is a competitive process. Employees are selected on the basis of

skills, knowledge, ability, experience and when applicable, years of service to the District.

5.2 The District will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without unlawful discrimination.

6 PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES 6.1 Posting Vacancies

6.1.1 Job postings shall contain the position description, minimum qualifications and any required pre-placement physicals, drug screening, background checks, required licenses and/or certifications.

6.1.2 The District shall post job openings for firefighter position vacancies through the National Testing Network’s (NTN) website.

6.2 Basic Qualifications and Conditions for Employment

6.2.1 Qualifications for employment are based upon each position’s job requirements as outlined in the job descriptions. In addition, the following conditions must be met:

6.2.1.1 Age:

6.2.1.1.1 Minors will not be permitted to work unless they are legally able to do so under all applicable state and federal laws.

6.2.1.1.2 Generally, persons under the age 18 are not eligible for employment with the District.

6.2.1.1.3 Hours are strictly regulated for employees who are age 17. Exceptions to this policy will be allowed only if the minor has a valid work permit that specifically authorizes the minor to work for the District.

6.2.1.1.4 In such cases, the minor may be permitted to work only in accordance with the terms, restrictions and limitations set forth in the work permit.

6.2.1.1.5 Candidates under eighteen (18) must provide a valid State Work Permit, signed by a parent or guardian.

6.2.1.1.6 State law prohibits employees under the age of eighteen (18) from operating dangerous machinery, or being exposed to hazardous materials or situations unless they are a student of a recognized program of study.

6.2.1.2 Authorization to Work in the United States:

6.2.1.2.1 As required by law, employees must provide evidence of their authorization to be legally employed in the United States.

6.2.1.2.2 Documentation is required and must be presented to Human Resources prior to first day of employment.

6.2.1.2.3 Employment offers are contingent upon the candidate producing the required documents.

6.3 Firefighter Testing

6.3.1 The NTN provides testing services to the District to fill firefighter vacancies.

6.3.2 Upon completion of the NTN entry level exam and CPAT testing, applicant scores are automatically forwarded to the District. Applicants who attain a passing score on both the entry level exam and the physical abilities test will be placed on the District’s eligibility list.

6.3.3 The NTN process and candidate ranking does not replace the District’s responsibility and decision making in the hiring process.

6.3.4 The District will select the top applicants from NTN’s eligibility list and invite them to participate in other stages of the hiring process by first completing a District application.

6.3.5 Candidates selected to move forward through the District’s firefighter hiring process may be subject to additional stages of the hiring process including, but not limited to: a phone interview, a panel interview, psychological testing, and an interview with the Fire Chief.

6.4 Application Process

6.4.1 Applications will only be accepted for current, open positions.

6.4.1.1 Applicants must accurately complete an application for employment.

6.4.1.1.1 Falsification of the application shall be grounds for ineligibility for

Recruitment and Selection of Employees Page 2 Policy 2410

employment consideration.

6.4.2 Applications will be considered in an active status until the specific position for which the application was submitted is filled.

6.5 Selection Process

6.5.1 Human Resources serves as a resource regarding employment laws, advertising coordination, and interviewing.

6.5.2 Human Resources will screen applicants for job-related skills, knowledge, ability, and experience using the qualifications identified in the job description as a guide.

6.5.2.1 Qualified applicants will be identified for the District’s consideration.

6.5.3 Human Resources is responsible for ensuring the interviewing, checking of references, and selection of the candidate is conducted in accordance with the District’s employment guidelines and policies.

6.5.4 Human Resources or designee is responsible for scheduling interviews and communicating the interview process and timeline to candidates.

6.5.5 All candidates who were interviewed shall be contacted with results of selection process in a timely manner.

6.6 Reference Checks

6.6.1 The District has the responsibility for ensuring reference checks have been made on external and internal candidates prior to a job offer.

6.6.2 External Candidates

6.6.2.1 The District’s application for employment includes a signed release statement giving the District permission to check references.

6.6.2.2 The District will check references for at least the last two (2) employers covering the most recent five (5) to seven (7) years of employment, via telephone as the preferred method. A preferred number of references for any candidate is three (3) to five (5) which should include at least two (2) previous supervisors or managers.

6.6.2.3 E-mailed or written references are acceptable in conjunction with at least one verbal reference. If the candidate provides written references, the District must verify these for authenticity. The District reserves the right to determine whether a reference is satisfactory.

6.6.2.4 An applicant entering the employment market for the first time may provide school or volunteer references in lieu of employment history.

6.6.2.5 Information provided in response to reference requests shall be kept confidential.

6.6.3 Internal Candidates

6.6.3.1 Human Resources will review the personnel file and contact the current manager/supervisor of any internal candidate to review the candidate’s previous performance prior to any job offers.

6.6.3.2 By completing the internal application process, an internal candidate grants the supervisor of the open position permission to review his/her official personnel file

Recruitment and Selection of Employees Page 3 Policy 2410

and to contact his/her current manager at any time during the process.

6.6.3.3 Human Resources or designee shall contact all internal candidates who meet the minimum qualifications of the posted position.

6.7 Job Offers

6.7.1 Non-represented employees will normally be hired at the minimum of the range for the job. However, with the prior approval of the Fire Chief, a new employee may be hired at a salary level up to the Mid-Point on the salary range when experience, skills, training, and proven capability warrants.

6.7.2 Job offers are contingent upon the following:

6.7.2.1 The employee must be at least seventeen (17) years of age, or as required by the job description.

6.7.2.2 Minors may work only in accordance with the terms of the work permit and the applicable state and federal rules.

6.7.2.3 For jobs that do not require a psychological and medical examination, a successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background investigation.

6.7.2.4 For jobs that require a psychological and medical examination, a successful criminal background investigation shall be completed prior to a conditional job offer.

6.7.2.5 A satisfactory report of credentials, if the job requires such to provide services.

6.7.2.6 Successful completion of a psychological exam and medical exam, if the job requires such to provide services.

6.8 Job Acceptance

6.8.1 Once a candidate has accepted a position the hiring manager must communicate the necessary information to Human Resources, e.g. start date, salary.

6.8.2 Human Resources will initiate and send the offer letter and onboarding instructions to the new hire.

6.8.3 The interviewer(s) are responsible for completing a Candidate Evaluation Form, for all candidates interviewed for the position.

6.8.4 The District will provide Human Resources any applicable recruitment materials in a recruitment desk file, to be retained for three (3) years after date the position was closed. The recruitment desk file must include:

6.8.4.1 Candidate Evaluation Forms for all candidates interviewed for the position.

6.8.4.2 Interview materials used to screen/select applicants e.g. questionnaires, interview questions, assessments.

6.8.4.3 Documentation of the posting and the date the position was closed.

6.9 Current employees seeking promotion to an open Lieutenant or Battalion Chief position within the organization should refer to Policy 2421 – Promotions.

Recruitment and Selection of Employees Page 4 Policy 2410

NORTHSHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES

SUBJECT: PERSONNEL RECORDS EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND FILES Policy Number: 2500 Approved By: Chief Torpin Effective Date: Unknown Revision Date: May XX,

2016July 18, 2017

Pages: 4 Attachments: 0

1 PURPOSE 1.1 To establish consistent guidelines regarding content, access and inspection of

employee files.

2 REFERENCE 2.1 RCW 42.52.210: Certain personnel and other records exempt (from public

inspection).

2.2 RCW 49.12.240 – 260: Employee inspection of personnel file.

2.3 Chapter 42.56 RCW: Public Records Act

3 RESPONSIBIILTY 3.1 This policy applies to all employees of the District.

3.2 Employees are responsible for keeping personal information contained in Human Resources current and should notify Human Resources in writing of any changes in the following in a timely manner: Name, address, phone number, emergency contact, dependents and beneficiaries for benefit purposes.

4 POLICY 4.1 Human Resources maintains the official personnel file for each District

employee. The official personnel file contains employment records required for business and legal purposes. The department supervisor, Finance, and Training division may maintain additional files.

4.2 Official Personnel File:

4.2.1 The official personnel file typically includes, but is not limited to: applications for employment, initial hire documents, 90-day Orientation Checklist, all performance evaluations, accident reports, termination documents, and initial credential(s) upon hire if applicable. Records of corrective action will be kept in the employee’s official personnel file.

4.2.2 Access:

4.2.2.1 Current or former employees shall have the right to access their official personnel file at least annually. Employees may do so by scheduling an appointment with Human Resources at a mutually convenient time. Official personnel files will be reviewed in the Human Resources office in the presence of the

Human Resources representative or designee. Personnel files may not be taken outside the department.

4.2.2.2 Current/former employees may not remove, alter or change information maintained in the official personnel file, however they may submit documentation to Human Resources for inclusion in the official personnel file, and petition for the retention of materials in the personnel file that would otherwise be removed or destroyed. An employee may authorize another person to have access to the employee’s official personnel file.

4.2.2.3 Managers/supervisors may only have access to personnel file information on a need-to-know basis.

4.2.2.4 The employee’s current department supervisor or the manager/supervisor considering the hire of a former employee or the transfer of a current employee may review the official personnel file.

4.2.2.5 The District may be compelled to provide access to file information in response to a subpoena or court order.

4.3 Supervisor Desk File:

4.3.1 Managers/supervisors must maintain work-related information regarding employees reporting to them. Managers/supervisors are responsible for the safekeeping and confidentiality of the file. The information in the file is intended solely for the supervisor’s own use in reviewing an employee’s performance and maintaining other pertinent documentation such as those documents described below.

4.3.1.1 The supervisor desk file includes: Attendance records, department specific orientation documentation (for example: copy of 90-Day Orientation Checklist), training or continuing education information, work or schedule modification requests, informal/formal compliments or complaints, copies of performance evaluations, and documentation of corrective actions or informal/formal counseling.

4.3.2 The employee’s current supervisor has access to and is responsible for maintaining the file. Upon transfer to a new supervisor the file content should be reviewed by the current supervisor prior to file transfer. Applicable file content will be maintained and transferred to the new supervisor.

4.3.3 The supervisor’s desk file is not part of the official personnel file, however any information contained in the desk file may be subject to disclosure per RCW 42.56.

4.4 Occupational Health Files:

4.4.1 Individual employee health records are maintained for each employee at the time of hire and thereafter by Human Resources and are kept confidential.

4.4.1.1 Supervisors may be informed of work restrictions and Employee Information and Files Page 2 Policy 2500

necessary accommodation(s).

4.4.1.2 First aid and safety personnel may be told if a medical condition requires emergency treatment.

4.4.1.3 Certain government officials may have the right to relevant information upon request.

4.4.1.4 Current or former employees may access their Occupational Health file by scheduling an appointment with Human Resources at a mutually convenient time. Files will be reviewed in the Human Resources office in the presence of the Human Resources representative or designee. Current/former employees may not remove, alter or change information maintained in the file.

4.4.2 Typical occupational health file contents include: Immunization records, communicable disease status, pre-employment drug screen results, and work restrictions or return to work documentation.

4.5 Miscellaneous Document Files:

4.5.1 Employee information is also contained in files that are maintained by Human Resources. Typical examples of information maintained include: benefit election forms, leave of absence forms and supporting documentation, reference check documentation and background check forms and documentation.

4.6 Training Division and Finance Files:

4.6.1 The Training Division maintains credential(s) renewal information, educational and ongoing training records.

4.6.2 Finance maintains additional payroll data.

4.7 Employees whose duties require access to personnel documents or information must maintain the confidentiality of such. Violators of this confidentiality may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

5 PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES 5.1 Employee’s wishing to request a copy of their official personnel file should do

so by submitting a written request to Human Resources. Requests will be responded to within five business days.

5.2 Personnel Records for the District contain both confidential information and records that are considered public information (or records open to inspection).

5.2.1 The law requires the District to allow the public to have access to the following information from the District’s personnel records: Name; Age (not date of birth); Date of hire; Contracts (terms, whether written or oral, past and current, to the extent that the District has the written contract or a record of the oral contract in its possession); Current position/title; Current salary (includes pay, benefits, incentives, bonuses, and deferred and all other forms of compensation paid by the employing agency); Date and amount of each increase or decrease in

Employee Information and Files Page 3 Policy 2500

salary with the District; Date and type of each promotion, demotion, transfer, suspension, separation, or other change in position classification with the District; Date and general description of the reasons for each promotion with the District; Date and type of each dismissal, suspension or demotion for disciplinary reasons taken by the District; The office or station to which an employee is currently assigned; Any other information that must be disclosed pursuant to law.

5.2.2 Confidential Information: All employment-related and personal information in an employee’s personnel file not specified under “Records Open for Inspection” is confidential.

5.2.2.1 Information maintained on the District’s Personnel List is not for public dissemination. If a member of the public wishes to contact an employee away from work, a message may be taken and forwarded to the employee for when they return to work or in the case of an emergency or urgent message, the individual’s contact information can be recorded and relayed to the employee by the District.

5.3 This policy to be read consistent with the provisions of Chapter 42.56 RCW Public Records Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Any inconsistencies between this policy and application of State of Federal law shall be construed in favor of the interpretation consistent with applicable law as now stated or amended.

POLICY 2500 Personnel Records The district shall organize, compile and maintain personnel records and files for each staff member of the district which shall be kept secure under the authority of the Fire Chief. The contents of the files shall be available to the Fire Chief and to those staff authorized by the Fire Chief to organize, compile and maintain the personnel files. Those who have access to the files shall be required to maintain the confidentiality of the files and their contents. The staff member shall be permitted, during normal district business hours, to review the contents of his/her personnel file in the presence of an authorized staff member. POLICY 2451:

Employee Contact Information It is important the District has the ability to contact an off duty employee for recalls, follow-up information, urgent notifications, etc. To ensure this can be accomplished, all employees are required to provide their current address and phone number to the Fire Chief. Any

Employee Information and Files Page 4 Policy 2500

change of the information on file must be provided to the Fire Chief within seven (7) days of the change. This information will be recorded on the current Personnel List. The information contained on the Personnel List is not for public dissemination. If a citizen wishes to contact a member of the department away from their duty station, a message may be taken and forwarded to the employee for when they return to work or in the case of an emergency or urgent message, the citizen’s contact information can be recorded and then the employee contacted by the department with this information relayed.

Employee Information and Files Page 5 Policy 2500

NORTHSHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES

SUBJECT: AMR Ambulance Service Policy Number: 4412 Approved By: DC Chief

Torpin Effective Date: January 1, 2008 Revision Date: N/AJuly 18,

2017 Pages: 3 Attachments: 0

1 PURPOSE 1.1 To establish policy and procedure related to the contractual agreement between

the District and the American Medical Response Corporation (AMR) for Basic Life Support Ambulance Transport Services (RFP #2007-01). The agreement is designed to:

1.1.1 Maximize the availability of all its fire department resources

1.1.2 Ensure uniform and consistent availability of BLS transport resources 1.1.3 Ensure uniform and consistent ambulance response times

1.1.4 Ensure private ambulance availability during times of disaster

1.1.5 Ensure consistent ambulance rates for all citizens within the fire district

2 REFERENCES 2.1 Eastside Fire and Rescue RFP #2007-01

2.2 American Medical Response Proposal for Basic Life Support Ambulance Transport Services

2.3 The “Service Agreement” contract between the Northshore Fire Department and American Medical Response

3 RESPONSIBILITY 3.1 The ambulance company agrees it is the responsibility of the fire department to

provide rapid initial ALS and/or BLS response to all requests for medical assistance.

3.2 All patients in life-threatening, potentially life-threatening, or other serious medical emergencies may be transported by fire department aid units, medic units or other means as determined by the fire department.

3.3 The ambulance company shall transport the patient to a medical facility as directed by fire department personnel or of the patient’s choice.

3.4 The ambulance company shall not refuse to transport any person, when such person is determined by the fire department to have a medical condition requiring transportation to a medical facility.

4 DEFINITIONS 4.1 The referenced documents contain the complete list of definitions.

4.1.1 Ambulance Unit: The vehicle and personnel provided by the ambulance 12/19/2007

company responding to a request for BLS transport service.

4.1.2 American Medical Response (AMR): The ambulance company contracted to provide BLS transport services within the boundaries of the Northshore Fire Department.

4.1.3 Response Time: The time interval starting when the ambulance company dispatcher receives a request for service to the time an ambulance unit arrives at the scene of the incident.

5 POLICY 5.1 The fire department shall provide AMR the exclusive first opportunity to provide

BLS transportation when a private ambulance is required during emergency operations.

5.1.1 Nothing in the agreement between the District and AMR shall eliminate the fire department from transporting a patient when the officer in charge believes the patient would be better served by a fire department transport.

5.2 The ambulance company shall meet the response time requirements, with specific exceptions, as described in the referenced documents. AMR will base their ambulances in strategic locations throughout the region to meet the response time requirements.

5.3 The ambulance company shall make a monthly payment to the fire department as described in the referenced documents to cover the departments costs associated with the administration of the agreement.

5.4 The ambulance company will pay “liquidated damages” to the fire department for failure to meet or exceed patient care performance standards, transport protocols or other duties under the agreement.

6 PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES 6.1 Requesting an ambulance

6.1.1 The fire department unit in the field shall identify the need for BLS transport and request an AMR ambulance as soon as possible after the initial examination of the patient.

6.1.1.1 The fire department shall contact the AMR dispatcher by radio using “Fire Dispatch 4””A13-E-AMB” on the 800 Mhz radio. The Do not or use theNORCOM fire dispatcher may be used if making the request while responding or unsuccessful hailing AMR dispatcher. Note: This channel is only for contacting their dispatcher, not for contacting a specific ambulance.

6.1.1.2 The unit will hail AMR dispatch by saying: “AMR dispatch from Northshore A51 (E57, Bothell Way Command, etc.).” Following a response from AMR, the unit will provide the following information: “Request one ambulance to the address of _____, (emergent or non-emergent),” and provide the hospital destination, if known. AMR will provide you the cross streets from where the ambulance is responding.

6.1.1.3 AMR uses a “pre-deployment” system where fire dispatch notifies AMR Ambulance Service Page 2 Policy 4412

AMR dispatch for every medical incident as part of the fire department notification. The ambulance starts in the direction of the incident, without lights or siren, without being technically committed to the incident. The ambulance will stage approximately 3-5 blocks from the incident until requested by a unit in the field. If not requested within a reasonable amount of time, they will return to their quarters or other duties.

6.1.1.4 The AMR dispatcher will advise the field unit of any abnormal response issue. If AMR is unable to provide service, they will contact other ambulance providers to fulfill our request.

6.2 Transport Rates

6.2.1 AMR is responsible for all billing and collection services.

6.2.2 There is no charge when AMR responds to a call and no transport occurs.

6.2.3 The rates for service include a “Base Rate” and “Mileage Rate”. There are no other charges for an AMR transport.

6.2.4 The billed amount may vary due to the patient’s use of Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance or lack of insurance.

6.3 Administrator

6.3.1 The group of Zone 1 fire departments participating in the contract agreement share a program administrator to monitor compliance with the agreement (Eastside Fire and Rescue).

6.4 Reporting Apparent Non-Compliance with the agreement, response time standards, citizen complaints, etc.

6.4.1 In all cases of apparent non-compliance, citizen complaints or other unusual performance issues the fire department personnel shall complete an “Unusual Incident Form” and forward it to the Deputy Chief – Operations.

6.5 Patient Care Performance Review Report

6.5.1 Each month, AMR shall prepare and submit a report of the prior month’s activity which includes the number of responses, the number of compliant and apparent non-compliant responses and other information.

6.5.2 AMR is subject to lLiquidated dDamages if their response time compliance rate falls below 90% in any given month.

6.5.2.1AMR shall pay liquidated damages to the fire department for all performance failures that are determined to be the fault of AMR and not the result of extenuating circumstance. The list of liquidated damages and the payment amount is included in the referenced documents. The list includes, but is not limited to: Excessive response time; Fails to respond; Mechanical failure of an ambulance while transporting a patient to the hospital; Inadequate reports or other documentation.

Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

AMR Ambulance Service Page 3 Policy 4412

NORTHSHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES

SUBJECT: Access To District Records Policy Number: 5301 Approved By: Chief Torpin Effective Date: Unknown Revision Date: July 23, 2017 Pages: 5 Attachments: 3

1 PURPOSE 1.1 To provide policy and procedure for accessing public records.

2 REFERENCES 2.1 RCW 42.56 Public Records Act

2.2 RCW 42.48 Release of Records for Research

2.3 RCW 70.02 Medical records—Health care information and disclosure

2.4 WAC 44-12 Public Records Act—Model Rules

3 RESPONSIBILITY 3.1 The District shall appoint an employee as the designated public records officer.

3.2 The public records officer shall be responsible for the implementation of the District's rules and regulations regarding release of public records, coordinating the staff of the District in this regard, and generally ensuring compliance by the staff with the public records disclosure requirements.

3.3 The District’s attorney shall provide legal advice to the Public Records Officer on those occasions when such advice is sought. Additionally, the District’s attorney will provide a timely written response to a written request for explanation of a denial of the release of public information.

4 DEFINITIONS 4.1 PUBLIC RECORDS OFFICER: The person so designated shall be located in the

administrative office of the District and is charged with the responsibilities set forth in this policy in addition to other duties and responsibilities held by such person.

4.2 PUBLIC RECORD: includes any writing as defined containing information relating to the conduct of government or the performance of any governmental or proprietary function prepared, owned, used, or retained by the Northshore Fire Department regardless of physical form or characteristics.

4.3 WRITING: means handwriting, typewriting, printing, photostating, photographing, and every other means of recording any form of communication or representation including, but not limited to, letters, words, pictures, sounds, or symbols, or combination thereof, and all papers, maps, magnetic or paper tapes, photographic films and prints, motion picture, film and video recordings, magnetic or punched cards, discs, drums, diskettes, sound recordings, and other documents including existing data compilations from which information may be obtained or translated.

Access To District Records Page 1 Policy 5301

5 POLICY 5.1 General

The Northshore Fire Department shall provide the public with full access to public records in accordance with the Washington State Public Records Act (PRA) as referenced in RCW Chapter 42.56 and the Model Rules of WAC 44-14.

5.1.1 The Public Records Act provides that a number of types of documents are exempt from public inspection and copying. RCW 42.56.230 through 42.56.480 contain a large number of exemptions from public inspection and copying.

5.2 Tracking

Records requests shall be tracked in accordance with the PRA. The tracking log shall include the following:

5.2.1 Identity of the requestor (if provided).

5.2.2 Date and text of the request.

5.2.3 Description of the records produced in response to the request.

5.2.4 Description of the records redacted or withheld and the reasons for the redaction/withholding.

5.2.5 Date of final disposition of the request.

5.3 Fees

The District has determined that calculating the actual costs of providing public records pursuant to Washington State Law would be unduly burdensome. Accordingly the District shall impose reasonable fees as established by Washington State Law to cover the costs of producing requested records as follows:

5.3.1 No fee shall be charged for the inspection of public records.

5.3.2 No fees shall be charged for individual incident reports and medical records.

5.3.3 Requests for all other records or bulk requests for incident reports shall be subject to the fee schedule outlined below:

• 15 cents/page for hard paper copies

• 10 cents/page for records scanned into electronic format

• 5 cents for every four electronic files or attachments uploaded to an email, cloud storage service, or other electronic delivery system

• 10 cents/gigabyte for transmitting records electronically

5.3.4 When it is determined the cost of copying and/or producing electronic records is greater than the fees listed above, the requester shall be charged the actual cost incurred for providing electronic copies, including costs related to production, file transfer, storage, postage and transmission.

5.3.5 The District may send any records responsive to a request to an outside vendor for copying/scanning, and the actual cost of the reproduction by the vendor shall be paid by the requestor.

Access To District Records Page 2 Policy 5301

5.3.5.1 This shall only be done after the requestor has been notified that such reproduction is necessary.

5.3.6 Upon request the District shall provide an estimate of the fees related to any one records request.

5.4 Responding to Requests

The District will process requests in the most efficient manner as the Public Records Officer (defined above) deems appropriate. Within five (5) business days of receiving a request, the District will either (A) provide the record; (B) acknowledge that the request has been received and provide a reasonable time estimate it will respond to the request; (C) request clarification if necessary as to what records are being requested; or (D) deny the request.

5.4.1 Additional time to respond may be based on the need to clarify the intent of the request, to locate and assemble the records, to notify third parties or agencies affected by the request and provide such parties/agencies with the opportunity to seek a court order preventing disclosure where appropriate, and/or to determine whether any of the information requested is exempt from disclosure.

5.4.2 Public records requests will be handled in the order they are received. Should there be multiple requests by the same requestor, the request that was first received will be processed first and the other requests will be started after the previous request is complete.

5.4.3 While public records requests are an essential function of the District, the Public Records Officer also performs other essential functions for the District. Accordingly, the Department finds it reasonable to restrict the time allocated to the Public Records Officer in responding to public records requests to 5 hours per week to allow the officer to accomplish other essential functions for the District. The amount defined is based on the amount of other core responsibilities outlined in the officer’s job descriptions. The District will strive to provide responses in installments to expedite production of responsive records. The Public Records Officer will keep an accurate and current monthly log of these hours.

5.4.4 If the requestor fails to clarify an unclear request within 15 days, the District will treat the request as having been withdrawn.

5.5 Limitations and Exemptions

5.5.1 The PRA does not require the District to answer written questions, create new public records, or provide information in a format that is different from original public records; however, the District may in its discretion, create such a new record to fulfill the request where it may be easier for the District to create a record responsive to the request than to collect and make available voluminous records that contain small pieces of information responsive to the request.

5.5.2 Requests for records must be for identifiable records. A request for all or substantially all records prepared, owned, used, or retained by the District shall not be considered a valid request.

5.5.3 The District is not obligated to hold current records requests open to respond to requests for records that may be created in the future. A new request must be made to obtain later-created public records.

Access To District Records Page 3 Policy 5301

5.5.4 The District is not required to permit public inspection and copying of records for which public disclosure of the record is prohibited, restricted or limited by state or federal statute or regulation. The District is prohibited by statute from disclosing lists of individuals for commercial purposes. RCW 42.56.070(9).

5.5.5 Other statutes outside the Public Records Act may prohibit and exempt disclosure of certain documents or information.

5.5.6 The District’s failure to list an exemption shall not affect the effectiveness of the exemption.

5.6 Denial of Requests for Records

5.6.1 Denials of requests for public records will be accompanied by a written statement specifying the reason(s) for the denial, including a statement of the specific exemption authorizing the withholding of the record and a brief explanation of how the exemption applies to the record withheld.

5.6.2 Any person who objects to the denial of a public records request may petition in writing to the District’s attorney for a review of that decision. The petition shall include a copy of the written statement provided in denying the records request. The attorney shall perform a review of the denial as promptly as possible.

5.7 Retention of Records

5.7.1 The District is not required to retain all records it creates or uses. However, the District will follow RCW Chapter 40.14, Preservation and Destruction of Public Records, in the retention and destruction of public records.

5.7.2 The retention schedule for local agencies is available at www.secstate.wa.gov/archives. Retention schedules for documents vary based on the content of the record.

5.8 Medical Records

Medical records are not considered public records. The District is prohibited from releasing a patient’s protected health information (PHI) without the patient’s consent. There are several standard exceptions to this rule for the release of PHI. Medical records can be released without patients consent for billing, treatment, and other health care operations purposes and court orders that comply with the provisions of RCW 70.02.060.

6 PROCEDURE 6.1 How to Access or Request Records

6.1.1 A variety of records are available on the District’s website at www.northshorefire.com. Requestors are encouraged to view records available on the website prior to submitting a records request.

6.1.2 Any person requesting access to public records or seeking assistance in making such a request should contact the District’s Public Records Officer or Fire Chief at the Headquarters Fire Station located at:

Public Records Officer Phone: 425-354-1780 7220 NE 181st Street FAX: 425-354-1781 Kenmore, WA 98028 Email: admin@northshorefire.com

Access To District Records Page 4 Policy 5301

6.2 Request Format

The District encourages requests for public records be made in writing on a Public Records Request Form which is available at the District headquarters and on the District’s website (www.northshorefire.com).

6.2.1 Requests may be submitted in person, orally, by mail, fax, or e-mail. E-mail will be considered received on the date the message is stamped “received” not on the date sent. Requests should include the following information:

• The date of the request;

• The requestors name, mailing address, and contact phone number; and

• The nature of the request, including a description of the public record(s) adequate for the District personnel to be able to locate the records; and

• If request is in regard to an emergency response, please include names of persons involved in incident, exact date of incident, and address of incident.

6.3 Providing Records in Installments

When the request is for a large number of records, the District may provide access for inspection and copying in partial installments if reasonably determined that it would be practical to provide the records in that way. If the requestor fails to inspect the entire set of records or one or more of the installments within 30 days, the Public Records Officer may stop searching for the remaining records and close the request.

6.4 Availability of Public Records

Public records are available for inspection and copying at the District’s Headquarters during normal business hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Fridays, excluding legal holidays. District personnel and the requestor may make mutually agreeable arrangements for time(s) of inspection and copying.

6.5 Preservation of Public Records

No member of the public may remove a public record from a viewing area, disassemble, or alter any public record.

6.5 Closing Abandoned Requests

If the requestor withdraws the request, fails to fulfill his or her obligations to inspect the records within 30 days of notice that the records are available for inspection, or fails to make the payment for the requested copies, District personnel will close the request and notify the requestor that the request has been closed. District personnel will document closure of the request and the conditions that led to closure.

Access To District Records Page 5 Policy 5301

Monthly Training Assignments

July 2017

Company:__________

MONTHLY MASK CHECK

TRT

Trench Rescue

SCBA

Point of No Return

LADDERS

Vertical Ventilation

HOSE

Drop Line

July 2017

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

ATV Training

Water Rescue

2

Water Rescue

3 4

5 6 7 8

Water Rescue

9 10 11

Spec Pack

12 13

TRT

14

TRT

15

16 17

TRT

18

TRT

19

Bunker Gear Sizing

20

21

Bunker Gear Sizing

22

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

Monthly Training Assignments

July 2017

TRT:

The TRT drill this month is

Trench Rescue.

Woodinville is the lead.

Location and lesson TBD.

Hose:

Perform a drop-line evolution

as described in Section 3 on

the Training Manual.

Ladders:

Deploy a roof ladder and perform

vertical ventilation using the roof

prop. Vertical ventilation, when

used in appropriate situations and

done properly, can provide positive

benefits for interior firefighting.

Effects of proper ventilation include

better visibility and reduced temper-

atures, making locating the seat of

the fire easier.

View these two

videos in prepa-

ration for the drill. SCBA:

Review Chapter 9 of the SCBA

section of the Training Man-

ual and as a crew discuss

the factors that can affect

the duration of your supply

of air in your SCBA.

Monthly Mask Check :

Just a reminder to thor-

oughly clean and check

the exhalation valve on

your SCBA facepiece.

Even small debris can

cause the valve to stick

open causing the mask

to malfunction.

a. Inspect the face piece for rubber deterioration,

dirt, cracks, tears, holes, or tackiness.

b. Check the harness head straps for breaks,

loss of elasticity, or missing buckles or straps.

Check the straps for signs of wear.

c. Inspect the lens for integrity, cracks, crazing,

scratches, and a tight seal with the face piece

rubber.

d. The exhalation valve must be clean and oper-

ate easily. The valve must move off the seat and

return when released.

e. Inspect the face piece coupling for damage.

Also check to be sure the spider gasket and

valve disc are present.

Monthly Training Assignments

July 2017

Quarterly Training Assignments

Q3 2017

Company:__________

RUN REVIEW

EPI PRACTICE

DEFIB—QUARTERLY

PUMPING EVALS

Maximum Flow

TACTICS / IMS SCANRIOS

Tabletop Exercises

FORCIBLE ENTRY

Halligan Bar and Flathead Axe

Run Review:

Complete quarterly Run

Review led by Shoreline

Medics. To be scheduled.

Epi Practice:

Complete quarterly Epi

Check and Inject

Defib—Quarterly:

Complete Quarterly Defib

with your shift CBT In-

structor

Forcible Entry:

Practice your forcible entry skills using

the Halligan and flathead axe to force an

outward swinging door.

Pumping Evals:

FF Hofschulte will be delivering a lesson

on pumping maximum flow from a 2 ½”

hydrant

port.

Please

contact

Ken to

schedule.

Tactics / IMS Scenarios:

The Training Division will begin to schedule quar-

terly Tactics/IMS table top exercises. The intent is

that all crews will participate in the training room at

Station 51. The first round will consist of three sin-

gle family structure fire scenarios. Pre-scripted

prompts will require a wide range of actions from

those simulating the role of Company Officer.

Quarterly Training Assignments

Q3 2017

Forcible Entry:

Practice your forcible entry skills using

the Halligan and flathead axe to force an

outward swinging door.

A - Differential Lock Lever

B - Transaxle Shift Lever

C - Park Brake Lever

A - Warning Light Switch (Optional)

B - Indicator Panel

C - Hour Meter

D - Headlight Switch

E - Horn (Optional)

F - Accelerator Pedal

G - Brake Pedal

H - Key Switch

I - Turn Signal Switch and Indicator (Optional)

J - Cargo Box Power Lift Switch (Optional)

Map Book Additions—Coming Soon

In July, map books will be updated to highlight the available trails and driver controls for St. Edward Park’s ATV. Drivers please familiarize yourself with the new info.

457 Transition

Recently, it was decided that due to extremely low participation in the Randall Hur-

ley 457 retirement plan, the Northshore Fire Department (“the District”) will no

longer offer the Randall Hurley plan. The District will continue offering the State’s

Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) as an optional deferred compensation

plan for our employees. Being a part of the State’s much larger plan will allow for

benefits, such as:

Lower Fees: Economy of scale by aligning with existing governmental ser-

vices.

Retirement Readiness: Consolidated income projections.

One Sign-In for DCP and members of PERS and LEOFF.

Account Portability for Career Transitions with Washington State Public Em-

ployment.

Increased financial well-being onsite education resources.

At time of retirement, ease of transferring DCP funds electronically to pur-

chase additional service credit.

Randall Hurley participants: Keep an eye out for more

communication about the transfer of funds process and

timeframe for blackout period from Human Resources.

Want more information about the State’s DCP plan?

Visit www.drs.wa.gov/dcp

Extrication Techniques

This is a 40 minute video demonstrating some very good extrication techniques. As you view the

video, discuss alternate methods that you could use to stabilize the vehicle. Also, can you think

of any other way to clear the side window glass?

Policy Review

Now is a good time to review our policy on Incident Rehabilitation. This policy applies to training

exercises as well as actual emergency incidents. With warm weather here, it is easy to get over-

heated while training. Company officers need to use their best judgement when conducting

training exercises. Everyone is encouraged to drink at least one quart of water per hour when

working in warm temperatures.

4406

Safety Message: Fentanyl

We respond to a number of heroin and other opioid overdose in-

cidents each year. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that has become

prevalent across the U.S. It is available in several forms and is

listed as either a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning that

there is currently an approved medical use, or a Schedule I con-

trolled substance, meaning that there is currently no accepted

medical use. Schedule I synthetic opioids are most often pro-

duced in China or Mexico and smuggled into the U.S. illegally.

Fentanyl is 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin.

Carfententanil, which is structurally related to fentanyl, is up to 10,000 times more potent than

morphine. Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids can resemble powdered drugs such as heroin or

cocaine but they have also been found in other forms such as pill, capsule, liquid, and on blotter

paper. In fact, because of the potency of fentanyl, drug sellers often substitute it for heroin leav-

ing the end user unaware that they are ingesting fentanyl.

Fentanyl-related substances are designed to be absorbed into the body by all means, including

injection, oral ingestion, contact with mucus membranes, inhalation, and absorption through the

skin. Accidental exposure can occur under a number of circumstances and due to the high po-

tency of fentanyl, extreme caution should be used when responding to a suspected opioid over-

dose – or any incident that a white powder is present.

If you find yourself at the scene of an OD and you notice a white powdery substance, a N95

mask and impervious gown should be worn in addition to gloves and eye protection – better yet

don the mask and gown and move the patient out of the area. Do not disturb the substance.

Take a look these short videos for some more information about the dangers of fentanyl and

other synthetic opioids. They were produced for law enforcement but pertinent to all first re-

sponders.

Speaking of Impervious Gowns...

The gowns are probably one of the most under used pieces of

PPE that we have. Gowns should be used when you are likely to

come into contact with blood or other bodily fluids. Shooting and

stabbing victims, active childbirth, and patients with significant

open wounds should always be treated while wearing full PPE

including mask, eye protection, gown, and gloves.

Bunker Gear Sizing

LN Curtis will be at Station 51 on July 18th and 20th from 0700-0900. This will allow all four crews to complete gear sizing when going off or coming on shift. Station 57 crews should plan to attend fit-tings at 0715 for outgoing crews, and 0830 for oncoming crews to be present for shift change.

“We don’t need no stinking ladder truck”

Major Trauma – Pelvic Sheeting

When delivering trauma patients to HMC it is expected that a pelvic sheet will have been applied

regardless of whether or not pelvic instability is present. The reason for this is that there have

been several instances of people arriving at the ER with a pelvic fractures without any outward

signs or symptoms.

To help accomplish this without any unnecessary delay, a sheet has been added to the S.I.K. so

that it is readily available when backboarding a patient. Please watch the attached video demon-

strating how to pack the S.I.K. and quickly sheet a pelvis.

Social Media Update

Northshore Fire Department is now on LinkedIn!

Have us listed in your profile already? Log into your LinkedIn account and re-add us in order to link to our company’s profile.

Remember the sunscreen!

Burns don’t just happen in the

fire. Colletti will tell you so!

Tools of the Trade: The Halligan Bar

(Article from The Maltese Cross)

It was once said, “Never underestimate the value of

having the right tool,” and it’s still true today. The Hal-

ligan Bar (also known as the hooligan bar) is one

such tool.

It was designed by Deputy Chief Hugh Halligan in 1948. Nearly 70 years later, this iron-forged tool is still in daily use in fire service and has stood the test of time, with few modifications. Hugh Halligan,

(September 16, 1894 – Feb. 27, 1987) a native New Yorker, joined the Fire Department New York (FDNY) service in 1916, and advanced through the uniformed ranks to Deputy Chief and served as First Deputy Commissioner.

Except for a short time in the Army during World War I, where he served in the Fire Guard, Hugh remained in the fire service until he retired at the age of 65. The Halligan Tool is a forcible entry tool and a combination of the Claw Tool and the Kelly Tool. It weighed 8.5 lbs., making it a key piece of light weight gear.

Hugh also had the tool drop-forged instead of welded to increase strength and durability. The Halligan tool was designed to twist, pry, puncture, pound, remove and cut open barriers.

The Boston Fire Department was one of the first to put a Halligan Tool on every ladder company in their department. Ironically, the FDNY could not purchase the tool since it was considered a conflict of interest for an employee to sell a product to the city. Fortunately, some of the depart-ment members purchased the tool personally, and other local fire departments purchased the tool as well. Soon its usage began to spread.

The Evolution of Design

The Claw tool is considered the first of the “forcible entry tool class” designed for use of the FDNY. It was long, heavy and hard to use. It had been in use since the early 1920’s and was dangerous since the striking surface was off-center.

It was designed to strike and stick into the door or bar-rier. John Kelly, a Captain from Ladder Company 163, designed the next generation – called the Kelly Tool. This tool had in-line striking surface and an adz (a 90-degree surface) on the end, making it easier to strike into a door or barrier. Unfortunately, it was welded and heavy.

Hugh Halligan set some criteria when he improved the

tool. It had to be lightweight, used safely, not fatigue

the firefighter, the ability to be held in one hand, not

chip or break during use and used efficiently. After

Another successful Open House!

Station Life

Jeff Tagart—July 9th

Todd McInturff—July 11th

Matt Hochstein—July 11th

Kate Hansen—July 14th

John Burrow—July 18th

John Blake—July 29th

Birthdays

Paul Schultz—34 years

Anders Hansson—19 years

Eric Magnuson—19 years

Kate Hansen—1 year

Anniversaries

Welcome back Silver Fox!

Required Paperwork