Sterling Volunteer Fire Company

Today the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company joined the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement and fire-rescue personnel from the area, and the citizens of Sterling and Loudoun in saying farewell to LT John B. Patton. Before he began his 28 year career with the LCSO he served as member of the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company and was the first paid firefighter in the county when SVFC paid him to be a driver/operator. He attained the rank of Captain before he left to join the Sheriff’s Office. He remained a great friend to the department and he will be missed by all.

Photo by: Tim Duckworth

At 18:47 on Monday Engine 611 and Engine 618 were alerted along with Ashburn, Leesburg, and LCFR units, for the house fire in Ashburn almost right next to Ashburn station 6. Units from Ashburn were on scene with heavy fire showing before additional units were dispatched. TowerLadder 611 added on as an additional special services unit and Assistant Chief 618 also marked responding. Truck 606 (formerly Quint 606) began a search of the first floor while Wagon 606 began suppression operations. Engine 611 established an additional water supply while TowerLadder 611 secured utilities and performed a secondary search. AC 618 was assigned Interior Operations. The bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly and crews began overhaul operations.

The Sterling Volunteer Fire Company was pleased to accept an invitation to participate in the holiday event at Sterling Plaza on Saturday, December 20th. Crew 5 was on duty and was joined by many folks from other crews in meeting with the public. Despite the cool temperature it appears that everybody had a good time.

Photos courtesy of: Stephanie Lynch

Photos with Santa were popular.

Maybe photos with ToweLadder 611 were the real attraction.

Santa and Sterling Volunteers.

A winter weather advisory is in effect for Loudoun County Tuesday evening and the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists that winter driving can be hazardous, especially in our area where we normally receive a mixture of ice, freezing rain and snow.

The National Weather Service is predicting a mixture of rain, freezing rain, and sleet to begin Tuesday evening with little accumulation. The wintry mix is expected to continue throughout the evening into Wednesday morning. Loudoun Sheriff Steve Simpson is advising motorists to make sure their vehicles are equipped with a well-stocked winter driving kit. “By ensuring their vehicle is properly maintained drivers can keep safe this winter by driving defensively and always buckling up,” said Simpson.

A winter driving kit should include the following items:

• Properly fitting tire chains
• Bag of sand or salt (or kitty litter)
• Traction mats
• Snow shovel
• Snow brush
• Ice scraper
• Booster cables
• Warning devices such as flares or emergency lights
• Fuel line de-icer (methanol, also called methyl alcohol or methyl hydrate)
• Extra windshield wiper fluid appropriate for sub-freezing temperatures
• Roll of paper towels
• Flashlight and a portable flashing light (and extra batteries)
• Blanket
• Extra clothing, including hat and wind-proof pants, and warm footwear
• First aid kit
• Snack bars or other “emergency” food and water
• Matches and emergency candles – only use with a window opened to prevent
build-up of carbon monoxide.
• Road maps.
• “Call Police” or other help signs or brightly colored banners.

The Sheriff’s Office reminds motorists to stay safe this winter by following these safety tips:

• Always keep the gas tank topped off. When it gets to half, fill it up.
• Do not travel unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to make the trip,
ensure someone is aware of your route of travel.
• Carry a cellular phone. Your cell phone can be used during emergencies and
for notifying those expecting your arrival in case there are weather delays.
• Always buckle-up. Your seat belt can be the best protection against drivers
who are tense and in a hurry because of weather conditions.
• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights – even the hood and roof –
before driving.
• Pay attention. Don’t try to out-drive the conditions. Remember the posted
speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back a safe stopping
distance and don’t pass on the right.
• Know the current road conditions. www.loudoun.gov/traffic or
http://www.virginiadot.org/comtravel/eoc/eoc-main.asp. For statewide highway
information 24-hours-a-day, call the Highway Helpline at 1-800-367-ROAD
• Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly. It takes more time to
stop in adverse conditions.
• Watch for slippery bridges, even when the rest of the pavement is in good
condition. Bridges will ice up sooner than the adjacent pavement.
• Don’t use your cruise control in wintry conditions. Even roads that appear
clear can have sudden slippery spots and the short touch of your brakes to
deactivate the cruise control feature can cause you to lose control of your
vehicle.
• Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle. Remember that your four-wheel
drive vehicle may help you get going quicker than other vehicles but it won’t
help you stop any faster. Many 4×4 vehicles are heavier than passenger
vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. Don’t get overconfident in
your 4×4 vehicle’s traction. Your 4×4 can lose traction as quickly as a
two-wheel drive vehicle.
• Do not pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes,
do not pump brakes in attempting to stop. The right way is to “stomp and
steer!”
• Look farther ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by cars and
trucks will alert you quicker to problems and give you a split-second extra
time to react safely.
• Remember that trucks are heavier than cars. Trucks take longer to safely
respond and come to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of
them.
• Go slow!

With outside temperatures dropping and energy prices on the rise, consumers are turning to alternative heating sources to keep their homes warm this winter. The increase in use of space heaters, fireplaces, woodstoves and other devices has raised the risks to homeowners as well. The Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office advises residents to use safety precautions and offers the following information regarding the use of alternative heating sources:

Before using any heating device, ensure that smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home and are equipped with fresh batteries. It is also advised to have carbon monoxide detectors in several areas of the house. Heating equipment should be maintained correctly and shall be compliant with local building codes. Homeowners should follow manufacturer’s recommendations at all times.

Heating Equipment Placement

Alternate heating stoves and equipment varies in construction and thermal protection. Thus, this equipment can generate enormous heat several feet in all directions. Placement of the heating source must take into consideration adequate space for installation, maintenance and replacement, flue or vent routing and safe distance from combustible materials. Properly tested and rated equipment will have an attached safety label and manufacturer’s recommendations for placement.

Space Heaters

These appliances can be an affordable option for heating a small space, but they are also the leading source of house fires during the winter months.
• Look for products tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Buy models with an automatic shut-off feature and heat element guards.
• Maintain a 36-inch clearance between the heater and combustible materials, such as bedding, furniture, wall coverings, or other flammable items.
• Do not leave a heater unattended.

Electric heaters should be inspected prior to use.
• Check the cord for fraying, cracking and look for broken wires or signs of overheating.
• Use only heavy-duty extension cords.
• Never run the heaters cord under rugs or carpeting

Liquid-fueled heaters must be operated using only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer.
• Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel.
• Allow the heater to cool down prior to refueling.

Fireplaces

This popular heat source requires proper maintenance and caution to ensure safe operation.
• Annual inspections by a professional chimney sweep are recommended.
• Regular cleaning will keep the fireplace free of obstructions.
• Have a removable cap installed at the top of the chimney to keep out debris and animals.
• Maintain proper clearance around the fireplace and keep it clear of combustible materials such as books, newspapers and furniture
• Always close the screen when in use.
• Keep glass doors open during the fire.
• Use a fireplace grate.
• Approved fireplace tools are recommended.
• Never burn garbage, rolled newspapers, charcoal or plastic in the fireplace.
• Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant.
• Clean out ashes from previous fires and place them in a noncombustible container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container outside and away from the house.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before closing the damper.

Gas fireplaces require specific maintenance:
• Adjust the volt output.
• Keep the glowing embers and logs clean.
• Inspect and clean the air circulation passages and fans.
• Clean the glass as needed.
• Avoid obstructing the vents.

Stoves

Wood stoves are traditional heat sources and remain popular. However, they have been linked to an increase in house and chimney fires.
• Choose a stove that has been tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Second-hand stoves should be free of broken parts or cracks.
• Maintain at least a 36-inch clearance between the stove and combustible materials or use fire-resistant materials to protect woodwork or other areas. Follow manufacturer guidelines.
• Noncombustible floor covering should be used under and around the stove. The material should extend 18 inches on all sides.
• Prior to using the stove, place a layer of sand or firebrick in the bottom of the firebox.
•The stove pipe should not pass through a floor, closet, concealed space or enter the chimney in the attic.
• Whether masonry or metal, the chimney should extend at least 3 feet above the highest point where it passes through the roof.
• Keep the chimney flue and stove pipe clean and free of obstructions.

Pellet stoves are modern devices that operate through an automated fuel-delivery process. A fan delivers air to the fire and blows exhaust by-products out of a vent pipe that is smaller and typically less expensive than a chimney. A separate fan blows air through heat exchangers in the stove and out into the home.
• Always hire an installer who is licensed and certified.
• Stove placement must allow for access to proper venting and electrical sources and must meet minimum required clearances. Certified installers operate according to these guidelines.
• Outlets must be checked for proper voltage.
• Keep the stove clear off all combustibles materials.
• Use PL vent pipes tested to Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 641.

Every homeowner using alternative heating sources this winter should take a few minutes to ensure that you and your family are protected. Check that all smoke alarms are working properly, practice an escape plan and keep emergency phone numbers by the phone. For additional information regarding alternative heating source safety, feel free to contact the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office at 703-737-8600.

As the first night in December came to a close, Sterling units were alerted for the accident with one trapped across from the 300 block of E. Church road in Sterling Park. Sterling Firefighters responded with Engine 11, Tower 11, and Rescue 15. The Engine and Rescue arrived on scene minutes after being dispatched to find a single vehicle resting on the bank of the creek, apparently being held in place by overrun trees. While the Engine Company deployed a 200′ protective hose line and assessed the scene the Rescue Company went to work stabilizing the vehicle utilizing the winch and come-a-longs. After ensuring the stability of the vehicle crews worked to remove the rear passenger door, and placed the unconscious patient in a stokes basket. Simultaneously the Rescue Driver and Tower crew constructed a rope system to transport the patient up the creeks bank. The patent was lifted to street level, packaged, and transfered to awaiting EMS units. The entire extraction, from on scene to transfer of care lasted slightly over 12 minutes.

Another outstanding job flawlessly preformed by Duty Crews 3 and 5. The fashion that the officers and members of these crews operate seamlessly with each other is truly outstanding.

Photos by: RFF Chris Black

On Monday, December 1 at our general membership meeting, the Sterling Volunteer Fire Company held elections to fill various positions in our organization. Not only do we congratulate those elected but we also take time to say thanks to all those who were willing to serve, those who have served in the past, and all those members who work hard throughout the year to provide safe, effective, and efficient fire service to Sterling and the surrounding communities.

Those who will be serving in 2009 are:

Fire Chief: Mickey Buchanan
President: David Short
Vice Pres: Bob Weber
Secretary: Rebecca Welsch
Treasurer: Brent Kochel

Board of Directors at large members:
Jeff Brown
Bill Graham
Marvin Miller
Grant Serbousek