DATE: 09/02/2008
SUBJECT: Residents Take On Wildfire Protection Responsibility.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008, from 4:00 –8:00 p.m. at the Estes Park Fire Station, Estes Valley residents in and around Estes Park will have the opportunity to help develop the list of “values at risk” for the Town’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). Light refreshments will be served.

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department with the assistance of town, federal, state, and county experts are developing a plan to reduce the risk of a devastating wildfire in the area. “There is no substitute for prevention. This plan will provide another weapon in our arsenal to fight fires and protect our community.” stated Mayor, Bill Pinkham.

“The first step in the CWPP process is to map all the values at risk”, stated Scott Dorman, Chief, Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department. “We need to know what needs to be protected when, not if, a wildfire comes through the area.” “We need input from residents to make sure we’ve addressed all the values at risk. We have mapped all the residences, commercial structures, hydrants, major water lines, power plants, but we may have missed something. The open house is an opportunity for all residents of the area to learn about CWPPs and make sure that their values are being identified.”

A CWPP identifies how a community will reduce its risk from wildland fire and is developed by local citizens and fire department volunteers with assistance and support from county, state and federal agencies. It is a tool to get all of these agencies working together on community protection efforts. The plan will address wildfire response capability, evacuation requirements and protection of homes and other structures. It will identify and prioritize necessary fuel reduction projects and enhance the opportunity for the community to compete for potential funding and agency assistance to implement community established projects.

Staff from the US Forest Service, Colorado State Forest Service, Larimer County, the Town of Estes Park and Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department will be on hand to explain the purpose of the CWPP and answer questions community members have about the specifics of the plan.

Windcliff and Thunder Mountain Home Owners Associations have worked with the “Y” of the Rockies to develop one CWPP for their communities. The East Portal CWPP was the first to be developed in this area. Representatives from the “Y”, Thunder Mountain and Windcliff worked with staff from the US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado State Forest Service, Larimer County and Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department to develop their plan. Now those communities have been able to take advantage of matching grants to do some necessary fuel reductions in their Wildland Urban Interface areas. Windcliff has been designated a “FireWise” community. Little Valley also completed a CWPP. They were then eligible to obtain grants to address their fuel reduction concerns.

DATE: 09/02/2008
SUBJECT: Semi-trailer Versus Car Accident

At 9:42 am on September 1st the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a semi-trailer versus car accident on Highway 36. Arriving units found three vehicles involved, with the truck blocking most of the road. In addition, a large amount of diesel fuel had leaked across both lanes of Highway 36. Because of this, the road was closed down due to significant safety concerns for emergency workers, patients, and the public. The road remained closed until rescue, investigation, and cleanup operations were completed, and the road was safe for traffic to resume.

Two patients were flown from the scene, one was fatally injured, and four were uninjured. Firefighters extricated the deceased individual from the vehicle after the coroner arrived. The Fire Department then cleaned up a large amount of diesel fuel that had leaked from the truck.

The management of the scene required the cooperation of the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department, Estes Park Ambulance Service, Colorado State Highway Patrol, Colorado Department of Transportation, the Estes Park Police Department, Larimer County Sheriff’s Department, Pinewood Springs Volunteer Fire Department, and the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office. Units from Longmont assisted with traffic control on Highway 36 in Lyons.

The Fire Department extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.

DATE: 07/22/2008
SUBJECT: Soul Shine Wildfire

At 11:45pm on Sunday, July 20th, the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department responded to a wildland fire off of Soul Shine Road, down Highway 34.

Firefighters made contact with the person who reported the fire and were then able to drive to a point overlooking the fire. The fire was approximately one acre in size and burning on the ground in pine needles, grasses and bushes with small trees catching on fire at times (torching). Estes Park VFD established command of the incident, formulated a plan, and requested mutual aid from surrounding fire departments. Four firefighters hiked into the fire and began constructing fireline (scraping away pine needles, grasses and other flammable material down to mineral soil) with hand tools and chainsaws while others started setting up to bring fire hose to the fire. Five firefighters from Glenhaven Area VFD, six from Big Thompson Canyon Fire, and eight from Larimer County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services responded to the request for mutual aid.

The fire was contained (had fireline around it) at 3:30 am and firefighters stayed up to extinguish hot spots (mop up) and look for spot fires outside of the fireline. The US Forest Service took over the fire at 7:30 am and local firefighters left the fire to go to their normal jobs after almost eight hours of work on the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the US Forest Service.

Firefighters were able to contain the fire quickly due to hard work, and, more importantly, the fact that it was nighttime, and the temperatures were cool. If this had occurred during the heat of the afternoon, the fire potentially could have been much bigger. The wildland fuels are starting to dry out, and people are encouraged to use caution with any use of fire (camp fires, smoking, cooking) while spending time in the woods.

DATE: 07/08/2008
SUBJECT: Motor Vehicle Accident and Fire

Firefighters responded to a motor vehicle accident on Hwy 34 at mile marker 69. The vehicle had hit a tree and subsequently caught on fire. Passers-by had removed the driver prior to the vehicle becoming fully involved.

Firefighters closed Hwy 34 temporarily and extinguished the fire, which involved the vehicle and a tree. They also set up a landing zone on the highway for a medevac helicopter. The patient was flown from the scene.

DATE: 01/17/2008
SUBJECT: Structure Fire

On Tuesday afternoon, 01/17/2008 at 7:28 a.m. the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 816 Riverside Dr Estes Park. Upon arrival, the responding units observed a single-story wooden structure with flames showing through the roof. Command determined that no one was in the house other then a dog. The dog was removed from the home and given to the owner. Firefighters engaged in a direct attack inside the home. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within very short time. Command then directed firefighters to start mop-up operations, investigating for fire extension into the structure.

The investigation determined most of the damage was limited to the living room with smoke damage through out the structure. It was determined that burning paper from the fireplace landed on the roof near the chimney starting the fire in a buildup of pine needles. It is estimated damages are in the area of $105,000.00.

Responding units included 19 Estes Park Firefighters. Responding apparatus included Engine 1, Engine 10, Squad 3 and Brush 9. Dive Rescue also responded due to the extreme cold to give Firefighters rehabilitation support. No Firefighters were injured during firefighting operations.

DATE: 11/14/2007
SUBJECT: Structure Fire

Photos courtesy of the Estes Park News

On Tuesday afternoon, 11/13/2007 at 1:50 p.m. the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 1601 Fish Creek Rd, Estes Park. Upon arrival, the responding units observed a two-story wooden structure with flames showing from the garage. The firefighters engaged in a direct attack on the fire from three sides of the structure battling fire as well as high winds in the area. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 30 minutes. Command then directed firefighters to start mop-up operations, investigating for fire extension into the structure. Firefighters utilized a thermal imaging camera in an attempt to find any hot spots left undetected by sight or feel.

The investigation determined most of the damage was limited to the garage. Aggressive Firefighting operations saved the home. The sheetrock wall between the garage and the home proved to be an effective firebreak until Firefighters could arrive. Smoke detectors in the home worked properly and warned the occupants of the fire danger. The cause is still under investigation and remains undetermined.

Responding units included 22 Estes Park, 9 Allenspark, and 6 Glen haven firefighters. Responding apparatus included Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 10 and Squad 3. Allenspark responded with three apparatus and Glen Haven with two. Fish Creek Rd. was closed to traffic in both directions due to required placement of apparatus, location of fire hydrants and firefighters' safety. No Firefighters or occupants were injured during firefighting operations.

DATE: 11/09/2007
SUBJECT: Brush Fire

Photos courtesy of the Estes Park News

12 Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department fire fighters responded to a grass fire in the area of 2330 Larkspur Ave and 2441 Spruce Ave at 2:35. The fire spread quickly in to some trees and threatened nearby structures. Allenspark, Glen Haven and Rocky Mountain National Park fire fighters assisted Estes Park at the scene.

The fire was caused by foam insulation board with foil, from construction debris, that was blown into the power line. The foam insulation ignited and fell to the ground starting a grass fire. Due to the wind, the fire spread quickly upslope toward structures on Spruce Ave. The power line received minor damage and lights flickered but there was no loss of power to the area.

6 Structures were threatened. Police, fire fighters, and by standers attempted to evacuate the area.

Quick action by firefighters kept the fire from reaching any structure although the fire did come within feet of some structures. There were no hydrants in close proximity on the north side of the fire. Glen Haven and Allenspark fire fighters assisted Estes Park by establishing a tanker shuttle bringing water to the Estes Park's drop tank. Estes Park fire fighters then pumped the water from that pond to protect the structures. Spruce Ave was closed during fire fighting operations.

Because this was an unusual event in the area, by-standers who had parked their vehicles near the fire scene temporarily impeded firefighters and apparatus from accessing the fire scene.

Due to the lack of fire mitigation to eliminate ladder fuels in the area, the fire spread from the grass to shrubs and then into the trees. Firefighters cleared the scene at 4:45 p.m.

-more-

At 8:36 p.m. firefighters were called back to the scene as the wind had blown the duff and exposed hot embers. They thoroughly doused all potential hot spots with water and cleared the scene 9:45 p.m. Chief Dorman returned to the scene at 2:30 a.m. to check again for the possibility of hot spots as the wind had picked up again. He found none.

Chief Dorman stated, "The threat of wildfire is still a concern in our area, and, even though people live in open areas, they need to weed whack or mow the grasses after they have turned brown to reduce the wildfire hazard".

DATE: 10/22/2007
SUBJECT: Structure Fire

Photo courtesy of the Estes Park News

On Friday afternoon, 10/19/2007 at 4:12p.m. the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at 1575 Fall River Rd, Estes Park. Upon arrival, the responding units observed a single-story wooden structure with flames showing. The firefighters engaged in a direct attack on the fire, primarily on the exterior of the home. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 12 minutes. Command then directed firefighters to start mop-up operations, investigating for fire extension into the structure. Firefighters utilized a thermal imaging camera in an attempt to find any hot spots left undetected by sight or feel.

The investigation determined most of the damage was to the exterior and the roof of the home. Mostly smoke damage was found in the interior of the home, although there was some interior fire and water damage. After an investigation of the structure no hot spots were detected. At that time command was terminated.

Responding units included 12 firefighters, Engine 1 and Engine10 as well as Squad 3. Fall River Rd. was closed to traffic in both directions due to required placement of apparatus, location of fire hydrants and firefighters' safety. The cause of the fire was determined to be improperly discarded smoking materials at the back of the structure igniting pine needles, causing a grass fire that spread to the structure.

At 5:25a.m. 10/20/2007, The Fire Department was dispatched back to the structure at 1575 Fall River Rd. Upon arrival the responding units observed the structure fully involved. It took 13 firefighters and three fire apparatus 1hour and 40 minutes to control the fire. Mop-up began with fire operations ending at approximately 10:59a.m. It was suspected that and undetectable ember, most likely in the attic space, fanned by very high winds, reignited the fire. Despite the aggressive efforts of firefighters the structure was a total loss due to high winds in the area that morning. Also, a power pole was damaged by the fire and was replaced later that day.

Responding apparatus was the same as the evening prior with 13 firefighters on scene. Three fire fighters were injured during the early morning effort. The injuries included Smoke inhalation and difficulty breathing, both of which were treated on scene. Another firefighter sustained a foot injury and was treated at Timberline Medical. All firefighters are expected to make full recovery.

Fall River road was closed again for extended periods due to firefighting operations and hazardous conditions that resulted from the damaged power pole.

DATE: September 28, 2007
SUBJECT: Fire Department searching for former members

Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department is searching for previous members. The fire department would like to honor all current and former fire fighters at their 100th anniversary celebration in November. Does anyone have photos, stories, or newspaper clippings of firefighters, apparatus and/or events that they would be willing to loan to the administrative office? Do you know of a former Estes Park Volunteer Fire Fighter or family member of a past firefighter? Please contact Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department Administration office at 970-577-0900.

The Town of Estes Park and surrounding area is fortunate to have a dedicated group of 35 individuals who currently form the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department. The department's primary coverage area is approximately 100 square miles. Over the 100 years of its existence, the department has responded to a variety of calls including structure fires, vehicle accidents, wildfires, airplanes, search and rescues. The 100th anniversary celebration will include pictures, stories, newspaper articles about historical fires and other events the department has experienced.

Please help the current firefighters find all previous fire fighters or their families to really make the 100th anniversary celebration memorable. Contact the administration office at 970-577-0900.

DATE: June 1, 2007
SUBJECT: Automobile Fire Mary's Lake Campground

On Thursday May 31,2007 Estes Park firefighters were called to an automobile fire at Mary's Lake Camp Ground 2120 Mary's Lake Rd Estes Park CO. Two class A engines, Squad 3 as well as a water tender responded. Upon arrival, the automobile was evacuated and flames were visible. Firefighters made a direct attack and the fire was extinguished quickly. The Second engine applied a layer of foam to help avoid rekindle.

Fire Chief Dorman inspected the vehicle and determined that the origin of the fire was most likely in the engine compartment. However the exact cause is undetermined at this time. Firefighters attempted to save owners contents. Though some items were saved, the automobile was a total loss despite firefighters efforts.

Firefighters spent 1hour 45 min. on this scene, with no reported injuries.

DATE: May 31, 2007
SUBJECT: CSFFA Convention 2007

The week of June 18, 2007 thru June 22, 2007 the Estes Park Volunteer Firefighters will host the Colorado State Fire Fighters Association's 2007 Convention. Fire Fighter's from all over Colorado will be visiting Estes Park for this annual event. Attendance is expected to be 150 to 200 Fire Fighters. This year will be CSFFA's 90th Convention.

CSFFA will offer Fire Fighters educational opportunities as well as recreational events. CSFFA Fire Collage will offer classes such as aircraft emergencies, swift water rescue, fire behavior, farm rescue, calling the mayday and more. Recreation will include CSFFA annual golf tournament, relay race utilizing typical fire scene skills and a B-B-Q just to name a few.

This convention offers Fire Fighters an excellent opportunity to meet professionals from other districts as well as expanding their skills that enable them to protect the communities they serve.

The Relay race will be open to the public and should provide spectators an enjoyable and lively morning of entertainment. The race will be held at Manford Ave and Stanly Park at 9am June 22, 2007. Manford Ave will be closed all day on June 22, 2007. Detour will be clearly marked.

If you would like any more information please contact Jeff Barker at the above phone number.

DATE: April 12, 2007
SUBJECT: New exhibit celebrates one century of service by the Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department

Community Invited to Opening Festivities
On Friday, April 27 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., the Estes Park Museum will host a free public reception to launch the exhibition of The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department: The First 100 Years. This exhibit will honor and celebrate the history of service by the fire department. Appetizers and drinks will be served and participants will have the opportunity to visit with the fire chief, as well as current and retired members of the fire department. Children will enjoy playing with Sparky, the electronic firehouse dalmation, and his miniature fire engine as well as other fire safety activities. An authentic Estes Park fire engine, once-operational fire carts, and many more historical tools and other equipment will be displayed. This reception is sponsored by the Estes Park Museum Friends and Foundation and the Town of Estes Park.

1907 – 2007: 100 Years of Essential Growth
The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1907 under the supervision of elected fire Chief Dr. Homer James. The first firehouse was located behind the Estes Park Bank, the current locations of Western 1-hour photo and the Dunraven Downtown Restaurant. Now located off of Highway 36, the fire department has developed to involve about 40 volunteer firefighters who serve an area of approximately 100 square miles. This is a substantial area considering Estes Park is only six square miles of the total service area. In addition to an enlarged service area, the department has experienced increased responsibilities during the past century, including cave rescue, low angle rope rescue, and water and ice rescue, as well as other non-responsive duties such as building inspection.

Fire Chief Scott Dorman remarked on the evolution, "The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department has gone through many changes in the last 100 years, from equipment to training requirements to the types of emergencies that we respond to. But there is one thing that has remained a constant throughout this time, and that is the commitment of these individuals to help their community and neighbors in a time of need."

The New Exhibit
The Estes Park Museum exhibit will allow viewers to follow the development of fire-fighting equipment from the 1913 purchase of two carts, one for a hose and one for acid and soda tanks, to the purchase in the year 2000 of Engine 10, a truck that holds 1,800 gallons of water. The exhibit will illustrate the development of uniforms from canvas cloth, rubber boots, and leather hats to technologically-advanced fire-proof uniform equipment weighing about 45 pounds.

The exhibit will explore the historical fires that have occurred in Estes Park such as that of Al Birch's home in 1907, now the stone ruins above the Estes Park Town Hall, and the fire that occurred in the mid-1980s at the Rocky Mountain National Park North Gift Store and Restaurant.

The display will illustrate the considerable requirements to become a volunteer fire fighter, including diverse skills, certifications, and examinations. Estes Park Volunteer Fire Fighters are required to undergo criminal background checks, submit a driving record, complete numerous physical and academic exams, perform periodic physical aptitude tests, and successfully complete an oral interview. Certifications include Hazardous Materials Awareness, First Responder, Wildland Fire red card, and the 160-hour comprehensive Fire Academy.

Not only will this exhibit feature the interesting history of the fire department, it will also boast an array of historical objects, fire safety tips, and interactive exhibits and activities for both adults and children. Come learn about the history of this extraordinary group of volunteers who have changed and grown immensely through the service of their first one-hundred years. The exhibit will be displayed in the main gallery of the Museum from April 27 until September 23, 2007.

The mission of the Estes Park Museum is to collect, interpret and preserve local history, as well as present exhibits, programs and events, for the education and benefit of residents and visitors of all ages. For more information call the Estes Park Museum at 586-6256 or visit the Museum's website at www.estesnet.com/Museum. The Museum is located at 200 4th Street. Through April, it is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Beginning May 1, the Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is always free.

DATE: Dec 27, 2006
SUBJECT: House Fire

Thursday December 21st at 9:19am Estes Park firefighters were paged to a ‘possible structure fire’ at 6296 US Hwy 36, at the Rains residence. Response was severely hampered by the amount of snow left on the ground by a storm that had passed through the area the day before. A Larimer County Sheriff’s Deputy requested a CDOT plow operator, that was passing the scene at the time of the call, to clear the access to the house, which was located approximately ½ mile off of Hwy 36. Once the driveway was cleared, the first fire units made it to the house approximately 30 minutes after the initial page. First arriving units found the 3,500 sq ft home to be showing heavy smoke. Residents of the house first discovered the smoke, and ‘barely had enough time to leave the structure before it was completely filled with smoke’, according to them.

The fire appeared to have started in the mechanical area of the crawlspace, and remains under investigation. It appeared that the fire had been burning for some time before being discovered, which accounted for the apparent rapid spread once it became visible. The house, and most of its contents appeared to be a complete loss.

The owners/occupants were in the house at the time, and escaped uninjured.

As with many rural fires, a water shuttle was required to ferry water from Estes Park to the scene, which was enhanced with assistance from Pinewood Springs, Glen Haven, Allenspark and Loveland Fire Departments, who also provided aid in fighting the fire and standing by for additional calls in the Estes Park community.

Twenty seven (Estes Park) firefighters responded to the call, no injuries were reported. Firefighters remained on the scene overnight to douse hot spots and finally cleared the scene late Friday morning..

DATE: Oct 10, 2006
SUBJECT: Fire Prevention Week Activities

“Watch What You Heat” is the theme of this years’ National Fire Prevention Campaign. Across the nation and in Estes Park this week, firefighters are sharing fire safety messages with their communities, in an ongoing effort to promote fire safety and awareness.

This year, the entire community is invited to the Estes Park Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Week OPEN HOUSE On Saturday Oct 14th, from 1:30 - 4:00pm.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to put a real fire out with a fire extinguisher? Firemen will be on hand to walk you through it, in a safe environment. Did you ever wonder what it’s like to crawl out of your house when it’s full of smoke? Children and adults can practice escaping from our smoke house under the guidance of a firefighter. Sit in a fire truck? Spray the fire hose? Try on a breathing mask? You can do it all on Saturday afternoon at the Dannels Fire Station, 901 N St Vrain Ave, in Estes Park.

As a special treat, the Fire Department’s most talkative member, SPARKY, will make a guest appearance. SPARKY is a soft, furry Dalmatian dog that drives a mini fire truck. SPARKY delights audiences from 1-100 years old with his quick wit, handsome looks, shiny fire truck, and important safety messages.

Find out about the 911 Chain: a new short film produced in Estes Park will be shown several times during the event. It shows how 911 works in our community, featuring Police, Ambulance and Fire personnel from our community.

This is also a great opportunity to meet some of your neighbors that are the friendly rescuers that respond to calls all year long. See the trucks, meet the people, take home a safety message, and maybe a fire badge or helmet! Replacement batteries for smoke detectors will be available at no charge during this event, also.

For more information about the open house, call the fire station at 970-577-0900.

DATE: August 30, 2006
SUBJECT: Labor Day Craft Fair

This weekend the Estes Park Volunteer Firefighters will host crafters from across the country, as well as local talents as they showcase their handmade wares at this annual event.

The Labor Day Craft Fair has been the Fire Department’s major fundraiser for over 20 years, each year raising money to supplement the operations of the all-volunteer Department.

In addition to their own fund raising, the firefighters will join thousands of firefighters from across the country as they collect change from passing drivers for the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) telethon. Expect to see firefighters on the street near Bond Park this weekend as they accept support for that great cause.

As with any public event, the Estes Park Firefighters are looking forward to talking with the public, and showing the equipment on display- make a point to get down to Bond Park and meet your local rescuers when it’s not an emergency!

DATE: April 21, 2006
SUBJECT: Structure Fire

Photo courtesy of the EstesPark News

Estes Park firefighters were called this morning at 10:09 am to a report of a possible structure fire at 1833 Ranch Circle, in Estes Park. Upon arrival, firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the rear of the house, on the porch and extending inside, to the attic. The homeowners were not at home at the time of the fire, which was reported by a neighbor that spotted the smoke.

Fire officials are investigating the cause of the fire, which does not appear to be intentional; more information on the cause will be released as soon as it is available.

The value of the house is estimated at $330,000., with approximately $100,000 in damage. The fire was reported under control at 10:42 am.

Firefighters removed 2 dogs and 2 birds, unharmed, from the house. Twenty firefighters responded to the call; no injuries were reported.

At this time, the homeowner’s insurance agent and a restoration company are on scene, awaiting release of the property from the fire department.

DATE: Feb 6, 2006
SUBJECT: Structure Fire- Firefighters save house

On Sunday Feb 5, Estes Park firefighters were called to possible structure fire at 171 Stanley Circle. Upon arrival, the occupants had evacuated the home and smoke was visible coming from the windows and doors.

Firefighters were able to enter the home and extinguish the fire within minutes of arriving, preventing the total destruction of the house. Fire damage was limited to the walls and ceiling area near the wood-burning stove in the living room.

Fire officials determined that the source was most likely a hot ember that escaped the stove when the homeowner added wood in the morning before leaving for church, which lodged in the nearby wood stack and ignited sometime later. The homeowner discovered the fire when he returned from church at around 10:30.

While the fire department as a whole performed very well, Incident Commander Lt Mark Igel commended the performance of the primaty attack team, Butch McCown and Tim Romig, for their efficient use of water and technique to extinguish the fire. Their application of training made a difference in the amount of damage caused by the fire and suppression effort. Generally in structure fires, water damage can contribute to the damages that homeowners must recover from, which is an unavoidable effect of fire fighting.

Firefighters spent 2 hours on this scene, with no reported injuries.

DATE: January 16, 2006
SUBJECT: Rookie Firefighter Testing Announcement

The Estes Park Volunteer Fire Department is looking for a few good – firefighters.

Hoping to put on 5-6 new fire fighters, the EPVFD will use a new standardized testing process that includes evaluation of 3 areas: written test, physical ability test and oral interview. The written test will cover reading comprehension, map reading, interpersonal skills, math and mechanical aptitude. The physical ability test will include skills used in the fire fighting field, which will be clearly outlined and demonstrated prior to the test. It will include ladder use, forcible entry tools, search and rescue, hoses and other fire fighting skills. An oral interview with the Membership Committee will round out the process. Within 12 months prior to the testing, all applicants must have had a physical (DOT exam or equivalent) conducted by a Physician.

Successful applicants will become rookie fire fighters in the EPVFD Fire Academy, a 240 hour class to prepare for the State of Colorado Firefighter I exam. In addition, rookies go through a First Responder course, Hazardous Materials Operations course and Wild land Fire fighter Red Card certification. By the end of the probationary year, rookies are expected to sit for the Fire fighter I exam. All training is provided at the Fire Department’s expense.

Estes Park Fire fighters responded last year to over 450 calls for service and spent 2,600 man hours in training. Calls for service range from oil spills at motor vehicle accidents to multi jurisdictional incidents on fires and medical emergencies.

More information and photographs about the EPVFD are online at www.estesparkfire.com.

Applicants must be 21 years of age, have lived in the EPVFD response area for 1 year continuously and possess a valid Colorado Drivers License. Applications may be picked up at the Dannels Fire Station during business hours, or completed the night of the orientation: February 5th at 6pm. That night applications will be collected and the written test taken. The physical ability test is scheduled for Saturday Feb 10th, with oral interviews following for successful applicants.

For more information contact Chief Scott Dorman at 970-577-0900.

DATE: December 20, 2005
SUBJECT: Carbon Monoxide Leak at residence

On December 12th, 2005 at 3:02 am, Estes Park FD was called to a report of a Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector alarming at a residence, in the 1000 block of Lexington Lane.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the family, still inside the residence, that had been awakened by the alarm and called 911.

Like smoke detectors, CO detectors that alarm falsely cause a sense of complacence about their importance, fortunately, this family did call 911 and did not put the detector outside and go back to sleep. Upon investigation, firefighters determined that the level of CO was high, and recommended that the family not stay in the home for the rest of the night, until the problem could be repaired and they could safely return.

Fortunately this family reported no symptoms at the time of the incident; CO poisoning has a dangerous, cumulative effect on humans and animals and can be fatal. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is a by-product of combustion, and is most frequently found in residences as a result of faulty heaters or automobiles running in a garage or other enclosed area.

CO detectors are inexpensive, life saving devices that every home should have.

For additional information on this concern, or whether or not your home needs a CO detector, contact the Estes Park Fire Department at 970-577-0900.

DATE: Dec 20, 2005
SUBJECT: AED Save

The Estes Park VFD was called to the YMCA of the Rockies weight room on Dec 16, 2005 at 8:27 am on a report of a ‘man down’.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a male that had been exercising, laying on the floor with a bystander attempting CPR. Captain Landkamer and firefighter Mike Maddalena assessed the victim and determined that his heart had indeed stopped and began to perform CPR, which included applying an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) to the victim’s chest. An electric shock was delivered and during the course of the rescue effort, the victim’s pulse returned, prior to transport by the Estes Park Ambulance Service.

AED’s, or ‘defibrillation’ by an Advanced Life Support Team (Paramedic, Physician or Nurse), are a critical link in the chain of survival of cardiac arrest. Quick recognition, access and use of AED’s has resulted in FIVE field saves in Estes Park in recent years. In conjunction with effective CPR, these devices have increased the effectiveness of emergency field care when dealing with sudden cardiac arrest. AED’s are expensive, but have the potential of preserving a life, which has been proven again in our community.

The Estes Park FD carries several AED’s, thanks to the generous donations of the Quota Club; There are also several AED’s located in area businesses and Town Hall, as well as the YMCA.

Learning to use AED’s is part of the American Heart Association’s CPR course, which is available through the Estes Park Ambulance Service (970-577-4313).

DATE: Dec 19 2005
SUBJECT: Downtown gas leak

Sunday morning at 1030, EP firefighters were called to the Old Church Shops at 157 W Elkhorn on a report of a gas odor. Prior to the FD arriving, the building was evacuated. Firefighters used gas detectors and explosive level meters to investigate the odor and suspect the source was a problem with stove pilot lights in the restaurant, located in the mall.

Firefighters spent approximately 50 minutes on the call. No injuries or damages were reported. The tenant was making arrangements for repair even before the fire department cleared the scene.