Press Releases Archives

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Announces Firefighter and Employee of the Year 2011 Firefighter of the Year Lt. Jason Haynes He received this award for his involvement in the many facets of our department operations including fire prevention duties.  Jason is always on the lookout to share procedures and safety messages throughout the department. Employee of the Year FF/PM Ashley White Ashley has shown in front of her peers and supervisors what hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude can accomplish. Her eagerness to be a self-starter without the need for direction from a supervisor is an asset to our department. She has spent hours of her own time helping with public events, picking things up, and countless hours towards small projects around the stations. Cardiac Arrest Survivor Thanks Crew Members
	At the monthly Board of Fire Commissioners meeting on July 11, 2011 Gordon Wysocki attended and spoke to the Commissioners on his life changing event that occurred on June 17, 2011.  Mr. Wysocki was having a CT Scan performed in Palm Harbor when he went into cardiac arrest.  The staff at the radiology center immediately called 911 and started CPR.  PHFR's Engine 68 C-Shift responded and on arrival began advanced life support care on Mr. Wysocki.  After 17 minutes Mr. Wysocki's heart began to beat again.  At the time the crew arrived at the hospital with Mr. Wysocki, he was responding to commands from the crew.  Mr. Wysocki personally thanked crew members Lt. Tom Greear and FF/PM Barry Prindle at the meeting.  Last week he stopped at the fire station and thanked the third member of the crew FF/EMT Mike Harvey who was unable to attend the meeting.

Stratford Court Delivers Donation

On Monday, July 11, 2011 Jim Westrich, manager of Stratford Court located at 45 Katherine Blvd, and his staff delivered a check for $4,253.00.  The donation was a result of the Third Annual Italian Bistro Night fundraiser held on May 15, 2011.  Jim and his staff spoke at the monthly Board of Fire Commissioners Meeting thanking the department for all they do, not only for Stratford Court, but for the community.

EMS Appreciation Week 2011
As a prelude to EMS Appreciation Week, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue welcomed a special guest to the monthly Fire Commission Meeting held May 9, 2011.  On March 20, 2011 Cynthia Blackstone dialed 911 from her cell while at the grocery store requesting an EMS response to her home.  She had just spoken with her husband, Michael Blackstone, who was home complaining of shortness of breath.  Palm Harbor Fire Rescue’s Engine 66 A-Shift responded to the home.  Just 5 minutes and 26 seconds after being dispatched, the crew entered the garage to find Mr. Blackstone having severe difficulty breathing and chest pain.  They began immediate treatment which consisted of oxygen, taking his vital signs and connecting him to an EKG machine.  Four minutes after arrival Mr. Blackstone became unresponsive and his heart stopped beating.  CPR was started immediately followed by an electrical shock to his heart.  He was transported to Mease Countryside Hospital with care continuing by PHFR’s paramedics during this time.  According to his wife he remained in the hospital for more than a week’s care which included the new hypothermia treatment for cardiac arrest survivors.      Mr. Blackstone contacted PHFR with the desire to meet and thank the crew personally.  At the start of the Fire Commission Meeting Chief of EMS, Bob Markford, gave an introduction to the commissioners of Mr. and Mrs. Blackstone explaining their story.  He then introduced the crew to the couple allowing them to offer gratitude that cannot be put into words.  In the e-mail received from Mr. Blackstone he jokingly referred to the demise of his favorite t-shirt that had been cut off by the crews.  He was given a t-shirt similar to the ones the firefighters will wear during EMS Appreciation Week. E66A Crew:  FF/PM Matt Quinn, FF/PM Mark Harris, and Lt. Mike Sakal with Mike and Cynthia Blackstone  (photo to right)

The New National Terrorism Advisory System The National Terrorism Advisory System, or NTAS, replaces the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS). This new system will more effectively communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, airports and other transportation hubs, and the private sector. It recognizes that Americans all share responsibility for the nation’s security, and should always be aware of the heightened risk of terrorist attack in the United States and what they should do. NTAS Alerts After reviewing the available information, the Secretary of Homeland Security will decide, in coordination with other Federal entities, whether an NTAS Alert should be issued. NTAS Alerts will only be issued when credible information is available. These alerts will include a clear statement that there is an:   Imminent Threat:  Warns of a credible, specific, and impending terrorist threat against the United States  or Elevated Threat:  Warns of a credible terrorist threat against the United States   Using available information, the alerts will provide a concise summary of the potential threat, information about actions being taken to ensure public safety, and recommended steps that individuals, communities, businesses and governments can take to help prevent, mitigate or respond to the threat. For more information on the new system Click Here for the complete document.   Dunkin Donuts Destroyed by Fire Employees of the Dunkin Donuts at 33240 US 19 N called 911 at 3:35am to report a fire in the store.  On Station 65's arrival thick smoke was coming from inside.  Crew's attempted to enter and fight the fire from inside, but were forced out as the fire enveloped the attic space and broke through the roof.  Shortly after exiting the building the roof holding the A/C unit collapsed.  The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.  No injuries were reported. Units Involved: E65, E66, E56, T67, S65, D65 in Command T53, D69, PH300, PH401, PH500, PH600, PH800, LK500, SS254, & SS502 2010 Annual Report Released Early Morning Vehicle Crash

Early this morning March 2, 2011, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue and a Sunstar Ambulance responded to a vehicle crash in the area of US 19 and Alderman Road. A 66 year old male in a two door silver vehicle was spotted hitting traffic signs and clipping the tail end of a semi trailer before crashing into a concrete light pole. When rescuers arrived on scene they found the patient trapped inside the vehicle. Palm Harbor Firefighters were able to cut the driver’s side door off and used the Jaws of Life to lift the vehicle’s dashboard, freeing the patient so rescuers could remove him from the wreck. The patient sustained severe injuries and was stabilized by paramedics before being transported by air via Bayflite Helicopter. It is likely that the crash was due to the patient’s medical related issues. No other injuries occurred.

PHFR 2010 Annual Emergency Run Statistics

Firefighter and Employee of the Year
for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue

On December 3, 2010 Palm Harbor Fire Rescue announced their selection for
Firefighter of the Year and Employee of the Year.  The selections came from
nominations made by members of PHFR for services that are deemed above and
beyond the daily expectations.  Firefighter of the Year recipient for 2010 was
Lieutenant Brent Breuer.  The Employee of the Year for 2010 was
Firefighter/Paramedic Ray Tracy.  Congratulations to Brent and Ray.

              
                Lt. Brent Breuer                   Firefighter/Paramedic Ray Tracy

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Participates
in "Pink Heals Tour"

On Tuesday afternoon, September 28th, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue participated in the
Pink Heals Tour organized by the Guardians of the Ribbon and a local firefighter from Largo Fire
Rescue.  The Guardians are a group of firefighters based in Arizona that tour the country
in pink fire trucks wearing pink fire gear.  The goal is to raise awareness and money for
women battling all types of cancer.  Firefighters Andrew Bittner and Scott Arntz met the
pink fire trucks, four of them, at Countryside Mall.  Fire trucks from Lealman and Treasure Island
as well as a number of antique fire trucks led the four pink trucks south on US Highway 19, to
Ulmerton Road heading west to 49th Street.  The caravan then headed south and ended at
the Quaker Steak and Lube where a fundraiser was being held for women's cancer awareness.

Pet Fire Safety Day

Pet Fire Safety Day is this Thursday July 15, and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)
has partnered with ADT Security Services and the American Kennel Club
to educate pet owners about potential risks when pets are left home alone
as well as provide the public with fire prevention and home safety measures to ensure
the safety of everyone in the household, including pets.
With an estimated 500,000 pets affected by home fires each year,
Pet Fire Safety Day is designed to educate the public on how they can prevent
and prepare for emergencies and present solutions for reducing these tragic instances.

As part of these activities, ADT is distributing pet window clings that community members
can put in their windows to alert rescuers as to the number and types of pets in the house.
PHFR will be receiving the window clings this week and they will be distributed to each station.
If you desire to have a pet window cling visit any Palm Harbor Fire Station or the
Fire Administration Offices at 250 West Lake Road.
727-784-0454

National EMS Appreciation Week 2010
 May 16th through May 22nd
UPDATE!!!!! 
$1000 raised by PHFR for
the Susan G. Komen Foundation!!!!!

A fundraiser to honor Palm Harbor Firefighters will be at Stratford Court Assisted Living
of Palm Harbor from 4 to 6 p.m. May 16. Tickets to the "Italian Bistro" dinner are $12
and are available at Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Station 65 at 250 West Lake Road or
from Stratford Court located at 45 Katherine Blvd in Palm Harbor.
The dinner is open to the public. Proceeds from ticket sales, a silent auction
and a 50/50 raffle will be donated to the fire department and also
provide pink T-shirts for firefighters to wear during EMS Appreciation Week
in honor of the Susan G. Komen Passionately Pink for the Cure fundraiser.  Each firefighter
has been asked to make a donation toward this foundation as a show of support for
the community they protect and serve daily. A similar shirt will be sold to the
public at the dinner on May 16th.  The Fire Department will in turn donate all of the
 T-shirt sale proceeds to the breast cancer advocacy foundation.
The dinner will kick off National Emergency Services Week,
which runs May 16-22. Stratford Court is at 45 Katherine Blvd.
 For tickets and information, call (727) 784-0454.
 

Station 65 A-Shift

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue

Promotes Three Lieutenants

At the February 2009 monthly meeting of the Palm Harbor Special Fire and Rescue
Control District three firefighters were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.  During the
promotional ceremony Chief Angle stated "the department satisfies a goal that we have had for
many years, specifically the appointment and assignments of Lieutenants on Squad 65. 
This will enhance our operations both at incidents and during day to day activities. 
I am excited about this change, and congratulate Lt. Fisher, Lt. Malpass, and Lt. Breuer."
In addition to the promotions Chief Maciuba presented Firefighter/EMT Joshua Lovetere
with his yellow fire helmet signifying the completion of his one year probationary period.

(Left to Right) Chief Angle, Lt. Brent Breuer, Lt. William Fisher,
and Lt. Rodney Malpass.

Deputy Chief Maciuba and Firefighter/EMT Joshua Lovetere

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Announces 2009
Firefighter and Employee of the Year

Another successful year was celebrated during the Annual Palm Harbor Fire Rescue
Awards Banquet. The ceremony recognized years of service, extraordinary actions
by crew members during emergency calls and Firefighter and Employee of the Year awards.
This year Lieutenant Scott Sanford was named “Firefighter of the Year” nominated by
his fellow employees for his professionalism, dedication to his position, the department and
the community. Lt. Sanford has served the department for nine years as a firefighter/paramedic
and now in his current position as Lieutenant. He continually strives to improve by
participating in outside educational classes and is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree.
Lt. Sanford serves as a member on several countywide committees for the betterment
of Fire and EMS services not only in Palm Harbor but countywide, with much of the work
done off duty. Congratulations Lt. Sanford!

The second major award of the night, “Employee of the Year” was presented to
Office Manager Eileen Brown. “Mrs. Brown is an asset to our department and does an
outstanding job balancing the needs of the department, employees, and public” said
Fire Chief James Angle. Mrs. Brown is in the process of obtaining her college degree and
recently obtained her district manager certification from the Florida Association of
Special Districts and Florida State University. She was nominated by members of the
department as they point to her skills, dedication, and willingness to assist members with a
variety of questions and concerns. Congratulations Eileen!

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Honor Guard
Participates in 2009 Oldsmar 9/11 Ceremony

At 09:59 Pinellas County 911 Dispatch Center transmitted tones to all units and stations
requesting a moment of silence in memory of the nearly 3000 victims, including 343 FDNY Firefighters, of the September 11, 2001 terrorists attacks.  Oldsmar Fire Rescue once again
hosted a memorial ceremony at Station 54.  PHFR's Honor Guard along with
East Lake Fire Rescue's presented the colors, raised the flag out front, and led
Chief McGuff to the Memory Garden as he lay a wreath at the base of the monument. 
The "Last Call" bells were rang then followed by a fly-over by an
Army med-a-vac helicopter (above picture).

      
    PHFR's Honor Guard                                             U. S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Once Again
Helps With First Days of School

On August 25, 26, and 27, 2009 Pinellas County Schools began their 2009/2010 year.  During the first three mornings, fire departments throughout the county positioned fire apparatus and staff vehicles along side the crossing guards for most of the elementary schools.  Palm Harbor Fire Rescue assisted at Ozona Elementary, Sutherland Elementary, and Lake St. George Elementary.  Crews stood by the crossing guards holding signs while the fire apparatus and staff vehicles, with their emergency lights activated, alerted drivers of the children walking and biking to school.  Many parents rolled their car windows down and thanked the crews for participating in this program every year.
 

Fire Destroys Vacant Home
April 29, 2009

On Wednesday evening, April 24th at 10:18 PM neighbors reported a fire in a vacant home
located on Fisher Road.  On arrival E65A reported fire throughout the structure and venting out of the roof as well as live power lines on the ground in front of the home.  A defensive attack was started as a water supply was established for the first arriving ladder truck, SHFD T53.  The cause of the fire is still under investigation by PHFR and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. 
No injuries were reported.
Units Involved: E65, E66, E62, T53, S65 & D65 in command
Working Fire Units: E61, E68, RH68, PH100, PH200, PH500, PH600, EL300

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Participates
In 2009 Cancer Society's Relay for Life

Once again Palm Harbor Fire Rescue participated the the Cancer Society's Relay for Life
fund raising event held April 24th at Tarpon Springs High School.
As in years past our team not only participated in the fund raising walk, but also
sold Chili to other participants and spectators.

Large Exterior Fire Extinguished
Before Extending Into Home

On March 19, 2009, at 1:14pm Palm Harbor Fire Rescue received a report of a grass fire in a
yard located on the corner of 19th Street and Willow Oak Dr.   Because of the severely dry
conditions the fire rapidly extended to a fence, a palm tree and a large oak
tree next to the home.  On arrival crews made a rapid attack on the fire and searched the
home's attic for possible fire extension and found none. 
The cause is currently under investigation.

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Receives Accredited Agency Status

On March 10, 2009, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue received Accredited Agency status for the second time with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program.  

The concept of fire service accreditation was created to provide fire service agencies with a systematic, voluntary process for evaluating their programs and processes using an established set of professional criteria. Accreditation by a recognized accrediting agency serves as a significant indicator that Palm Harbor Fire Rescue is meeting established standards and stated objectives.

PHFR Participates in 2008
Annual Holiday Parade

On Tuesday evening, September 30th, at 5:47pm Palm Harbor Fire Rescue was dispatched
to a reported house fire at 792 Natalie Lane.  E66 C-shift arrived 3 1/2 minutes later to find a
four-story home well involved in flames.  E66 made an initial attack with a 21/2" hoseline as
additional units arrived.  Neighbors reported the homeowners were away at the time of the fire.
Due to the extensive spread to the top three floors on arrival a defensive attack was established.
At 6:42pm the fire was declared under control.  Units remained on the scene for overhaul for the next few hours.  Because of the severe damage personnel were not permitted inside the structure
since collapse of the third and fourth floor had started early in the fire.  PHFR fire investigators along with PCSO and the State Fire Marshal's office are currently investigating the cause of the fire. 
There were no injuries reported during this incident.
Unit Assigned: E66, E68, T67, E65, S65, E61, E62, S57, E56, RH68, and D65 in Command
Staff:   PH100, PH300, PH401, PH500, PH600, PH801, Lealman 410

    On June 24, 25, and 26, 2008, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue observed the National Firefighter Safety Stand Down.  For one week in June every year, firefighters across the country take time from their busy, daily routines to focus on firefighter safety and survival.  This week is devoted strictly to the safety and survival of firefighters.  Every year approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty.  Topics over the years have focused on such subjects as health and fitness, working in traffic safely, and driving safety.  This year all firefighters were asked to sign a pledge that seat belts would be worn 100% of the time, no matter what the situation may be.  All 60 firefighters in Palm Harbor Fire Rescue made the commitment and signed the pledge.  With the seriousness of not wearing a seat belt, which PHFR witnesses everyday, the signing of the pledge was also considered as 'leading by example.'  The members of PHFR encourage EVERYONE to "Buckle Up" for safety.

Units Assigned: E62,E66,E70,T67,S65 and  District 65 as Command
Working Fire Units: S57, PH100, PH600, PH500, PH401, DU300

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Observes
EMS Week May 18-24, 2008

On February 15, 2008, Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed a proclamation observing Emergency Medical Services Week during the month of May 18-24, 2008.  Palm Harbor Fire Rescue showed their appreciation to the EMT's and Paramedics with a lunch at Station 65.  On Thursday May 22nd, Palm Harbor resident Darrin Schneider and his daughter Joanna stopped by to make a donation for the PHFR Extrication Team in memory of his wife, Dorothy Schneider who was involved in a fatal vehicle accident on May 11, 2008.  They desired to personally thank the A-Shift members that worked for almost 90 minutes to extricate Mrs. Schneider from her vehicle.

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Palm Harbor Fire Rescue
Participates in the
American Cancer
Society Walk for Life

On Friday night, May 2, 2008, members of Palm Harbor Fire Rescue and their families once again participated in the Cancer Society's Relay For Life.  Teams must keep at least one member walking around the track for the duration of the event.  In addition teams may sell food or items to add to their donation total.  Also raising funds was the "dunk tank" where those who purchase baseballs attempt to drop local business people into a tank of water.  PHFR's former fire commissioner Dr. Ken Peluso volunteered to be the first "dunkee!" Once again PHFR sold "firehouse wheel barrow chili" made by Firefighter Rick Weschler.  As of May 13th a total of $93,429.02 has been raised from the event with
PHFR's total currently at $633.00.

                   
                      Former Fire Commissioner                                    Firefighter Rick Weschler
                              Dr. Ken Peluso                                                 working on his Firehouse Chili

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Palm Harbor/Oldsmar Firefighter
Association Local 2980
Annual MDA
Golf Tournament

On Friday, May 9th the Annual MDA Golf Tournament sponsored
by Palm Harbor/Oldsmar Firefighter Association Local 2980 was held
at the Lansbrook Golf Course.  At 1:00pm 116 golfers started an
18-hole scramble after PHFR District Chief Tom Fritz played
Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.  All players reported having
a great time golfing and at the awards dinner afterwards. 
When the final donations were counted, a total of $10,287.63
 was raised for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

    

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Vehicle Crash and Fire
Claims Two Lives on US 19

On Monday, January 7, 2008 at approximately 10:55am, a vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV claimed two lives.  The intensity of the crash ignited the fuel from the ruptured tank on the motorcycle creating a fire visible for miles around.  A Sunstar ambulance crew happened upon the accident within the first minute and attempted to douse the flames with a fire extinguisher as did numerous citizens.  Due to the fuel involved their efforts did not succeed.  E65C arrived within minutes and extinguished the fire and confirmed that both victims were still inside the burnt remains of the vehicles.  Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident and attempting to identify the victims.  The accident shut northbound US 19 for several hours.

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Fire Destroys Four Townhomes

At 10:28pm Wednesday night, January 2^nd, as an arctic cold front dropped temperatures in the 30’s and produced gusty wind conditions, a fire was reported in a six unit townhouse building.  As the first units arrived within 5 minutes the fire had already spread to three units with impingement into a fourth along with the collapse of the roof and second floor in the unit the fire originated in.  A second alarm was immediately called for and an aggressive attack was started to prevent the total loss of all six units.  Approximately 2 hours later the fire was under control with four units either totaled or severely damaged causing the displacement of five families.  The other two units received some smoke and water damage.
The fire was difficult to contain due to the construction type of the townhouses.  Each unit had multiple configurations to the attic spaces which the fire gained a hold on prior to the first units’ arrival.  Palm Harbor Fire Rescue received automatic aid from multiple surrounding agencies.  At one point two ladder trucks and six handlines were being operated by the 45 personnel on the scene to control the blaze. 

Click Here for photos and video

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Fire Quickly Extinguished on Christmas Eve Palm Harbor Fire Rescue A-Shift quickly extinguished a workshop/barn that was discovered burning on Christmas Eve shortly after noon.   The fire, located at 1023 Belcher Road, was first reported at 12:06pm.  Four minutes later E66A arrived and found a workshop/barn with flames coming out the front and south side.  Crews made a fast attack and quickly knocked the fire down despite the fact there was gasoline containers rupturing and leaking burning fuel on the south side of the building.        Units Assigned:  E65, E66, E68, T67, S65, D65, PH300, PH500, PH600 in Command Palm Harbor Fire Rescue 2007 Annual Awards Palm Harbor Fire Rescue presented it's Firefighter of the Year and Employee of the Year awards at it's Annual Award Dinner held on December 7, 2007.  In addition to these awards crew citations, annual years of service awards, and a special recognition for the department's Honor Guard were also presented.         Firefighter of the Year for 2007         was presented to Lt. Ron Gray. The nominations for Ron described his expertise in both medical and firefighting skills demonstrated over his career, with special emphasis on two incidents this past year.  The first was a pediatric drowning patient whose treatment required a difficult IV access and a difficult placement of a breathing tube to assist breathing.  Both skills were performed by Lt. Gray.  The second incident, a serious motor vehicle accident, that required a breathing tube inserted prior to the patient being extricated from the vehicle.  Again Lt. Gray was able to get this difficult medical intervention completed.          Employee of the Year for 2007        was presented to Lt. Tom Greear. The nominations for Lt. Greear commented on his work ethic and dedication to the department.  Recently promoted, Tom was assigned to Station 65 upon the opening.  Tom has built several cases, work benches, and oxygen bottle holders around the station, often using his own tools and supplies.  He also serves on the Department’s Safety Committee and is the maintenance officer for Station 65.Tom always has a good attitude and is a valuable asset to the department.     Palm Harbor Honor Guard Participates in National Firefighter Memorial Ceremony On Sunday, October 7, 2007, six members of PHFR's Honor Guard not only participated in the National Firefighter Memorial in Emmitsburg, MD, they were in involved in planning of the ceremony.  Lt. Michelle Brown, Lt Keith Maciuba, Lt. Milton Smith, FF Bill Fisher, FF Kevin Ratzmann, and FF Ron Romeguera all describe this as an experience of a lifetime.  All guard members folded the flags presented to the families of the firefighters that died in the line of duty.  PHFR had members presenting the flags and guarding the Wreath and Plaques.  The highest honor went to Lt. Smith who was one of the guard members that carried the wreath and escorted President Bush to the memorial!!  The overall honor of being involved with the command of such an honored tradition will forever remain in the hearts of these members.    For more pictures click HERE           Fire at Knights Inn, 34106 US 19 North At approximately 00:30 on Saturday morning, October 6, 2007, a report of a fire was received from the Knights Inn located at 34106 US 19 North.  Upon E65B’s arrival they reported heavy fire from one unit begin to spread to the adjacent units.  A/Lt Rodney Malpass ordered a 2 1/2” attack line deployed and within minutes the crew had the main body of fire knocked down.  As hot spots within the original unit were extinguished, other crews checked for extension and completed evacuation of the remaining units in the building.  The area of origin in the unit was the sofa, but the cause is still being determined.  The two occupants received minor smoke inhalation as they re-entered in an attempt to extinguish the fire, but they refused treatment and transport.  No other injuries were reported.  Units Assigned:  E65, E66, E62, T67, S65, D65 in Command Working Fire:  E68, PH100, PH200, PH300, PH400, PH401, PH500, PH600, PH800 and Sunstar 2nd Alarm:  E62, E69, T69, T53, S57, D69, and SH300 CPR by Citizens Save a Life On June 4, 2007 six employees of Innisbrook Resort were participating in a golf tournament at Innisbrook.  On the fourth tee, Ray Donner, 69, collapsed and his heart stopped beating.  The five fellow employees immediately began caring for Ray and called 911. CPR was in progress upon the arrival of PHFR's Truck 67.  The crew on Truck 67 started advanced life support care for Ray.  After securing his airway to breath for him and one electrical shock to his heart, Ray's heart began beating on it's own.  As Ray was wheeled into Helen Ellis Hospital he was breathing and following simple commands.  Weeks later he was released with no permanent heart or brain damage.  At September's Fire Commission Meeting Palm Harbor Fire Rescue honored Ray's fellow employees for their life saving actions.  Those employees are: Pam Collins, Lynn Columbo, Tom Wargo, Phill Piant, and Leah Heagy.  Ray Donner was present and thanked them in person along with the B-Shift crew from Truck 67.  An ironic twist was Pam Collins had just attended a CPR class given by PHFR's public education officer Kris Scholz in May 2007. September 12, 2007.  From left to right: Phill Piant, Tom Wargo, Pam Collins, Ray Donner, Chief James Angle, Lynn Columbo, A/Lt Rodney Malpass, FF/PM Scott Tischhauser, and FF/EMT Rick Weschler (missing is Leah Heagy)   Station 68 Wall Mural Unveiled                      On September 10, 2007 Palm Harbor Fire Rescue unveiled a mural that was painted by local St. Petersburg College art students Victor Dukes and Marina Viudez.  The students donated their time for the project and Porter Paints of Palm Harbor donated the paint.  Plaques honoring the work were presented at the ceremony attended by members of the community along with PHFR Commissioners and employees.  The wall can be viewed anytime at fire station 68 located at 3007 Alternate 19 North.       Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Participates in Safe Routes to School Program On August 21, 2007 Pinellas County Schools began their 2007/2008 year.  During the first three mornings, fire departments throughout the county positioned fire apparatus along side the crossing guards for most of the elementary schools.  Palm Harbor Fire Rescue assisted at Ozona Elementary, Sutherland Elementary, and Lake St. George Elementary.  Crews stood by the crossing guards holding signs while the fire apparatus and staff vehicles, with their emergency lights activated, alerted drivers of the children walking and biking to school.                V Palm Harbor Firefighter Assoc. Local 2980 MDA Golf Tournament a Success!!! On June 30, 2007 Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Association, Local 2980, with the assistance of the Auxiliary, Fully Involved, hosted a golf tournament with all proceeds going towards the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA.)  The day’s activities were held at the Lansbrook Golf Club.   The day began with a shotgun start with 75 golfers hitting the links.  After the day was complete an approximate total of $7,000 had been raised.  All the golfers participating had nothing but praise for a great day.        Station 65 Construction Photo Gallery Click Here for Weekly Updates, Updated March 30, 2007   Fire Destroys Mobile Home February 4, 2007, 10:27AM An electrical short in the wiring from an outlet to the electrical panel started a mobile home fire in Frontier Village Sunday morning. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and fire in the bedroom of the home. After an initial defensive attack, crews made an aggressive attack and brought the fire under control. The young resident who was in the home when the fire started was alerted, by a working smoke alarm. He attempted to put the fire out, but encountered the heavy smoke coming from the bedroom and quickly grabbed the family cat and made his way outside. The fire damage and loss of property contents is estimated at $26,000. No injuries were reported. Units Assigned:  E65, E66, E62, T60, S65,                             D65 in Command Working Fire:  E61, PH400, PH100, PH600,                          PH800, DU400
Christmas Day Fire Damages HOP's Restaurant
	Shortly after 12 noon a fire started by a lightning strike caused considerable damage to the HOP's restaurant located at 33086 US Highway 19 North.  PHFR's  E65C arrived first on the scene and reported heavy smoke with flames visible at the front door.  Crews made an aggressive interior attack at first until they realized the fire was in the attic over their heads.  Command called for a second alarm and then pulled all personnel outside for a tactical change.  Fire crews then made a quick attack ahead of the fire from the exterior.  This allowed crews to re-enter and extinguish hot spots after a few minutes.  Damage was estimated at $200,000 and repair crews were on the scene the next day working on getting the restaurant back open.  No injuries were reported.
Units Assigned:  E65, E66, E68, T67, S65,      D65 in Command Working Fire:  T53, PH100, PH200, PH300, PH400, PH500, PH600, PH800 2nd Alarm:  E62, P69, S57, T60, S49, D69, D57, SH300, EL300, CL600 Palm Harbor Fire Rescue's 2006 Firefighter and Employee of the Year On December 1, 2006 the Firefighter and Employee of the Year were announced at the Annual Awards and Appreciation Dinner for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.    This year's dinner was once again provided by the staff of Coral Oaks Senior Living Community.  They also provided the gingerbread fire station shown to the right.   District Chief Dan Zinge was chosen by his peers to receive the Palm Harbor  Fire Rescue Firefighter of the Year award.  Those who nominated Dan did so because of his role, not in a single incident, but for his service to the Department and the Community throughout his 21 years with the Department. FF/PM Doug Zimmerman was selected by his brother firefighters for Employee of the Year. Doug currently has 5 years of service with PHFR.  He is currently on the committee for the new building and a pension board member.  He has facilitated the insurance premium tax updates for the 175 plan each year.  He recently began acting as company officer when needed.

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Palm Harbor Fire Rescue's 50th Celebration Open House a Success
The 50th Anniversary Celebration held on October 1st at Fire Station 66 in downtown Palm Harbor was a huge success with more than 300 area residents attending.  The historic fish fry was a popular and delicious lunch choice, and the extrication team showed why they are International Champions.  Exhibitors from throughout Pinellas County displayed safety information and Bayflite was a big hit.  To wrap up the day’s festivities Chief James Angle thanked all who attended and introduced Mike and Gus Bilirakis, who spoke about the value and contributions of Palm Harbor Fire Rescue for the last 50 years.  Norm Atherton, one of the original fire commissioners, then commemorated 50 years of service to the Ozona, Palm Harbor, and Crystal Beach communities.  A great day was had by all.  Here’s to Palm Harbor Fire Rescue and the next 50 years of excellence!
Congressman Mike Bilirakis presents Chief Angle with a flag that was flown over the US Capitol Building	PHFR Commissioners and office staff prepare to serve a fried fish meal to visitors of the open house
PHFR's Extrication Team gives a live demonstration of the skills that earned them 1st place at the International Competition	The Honor Guard for PHFR poses with a live bald eagle after the ceremonies at Station 66 and downtown Palm Harbor
Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Extrication Team Places FIRST Again!!! For the third time this year Palm Harbor Fire Rescue’s Extrication Team placed first overall at an extrication challenge.  The team’s latest win came at the 2006 TERC USA Nationals held earlier this month in Las Vegas.   Combined with their Florida Regional and TERC International wins, PHFR finished the extrication season undefeated. In addition to the team’s placement honors, Palm Harbor also claimed two prestigious individual awards.  District Chief Dan Zinge won his third consecutive “best incident commander” award.  While FF/PM Rodney Malpass won his second “best Medic” award. Overall, 2006 proved to be a defining year for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue’s Extrication Team.  The training and experience gained during the year has further established the high degree of expertise and professionalism that has become synonymous with Palm Harbor Fire Rescue.

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Extrication Team Places FIRST in International Competition!!! Congratulations are due again to Palm Harbor Fire Rescue’s extrication team as they return from Canada after competing in the 2006 International Extrication Challenge and bringing home 1st Place Overall!  PHFR’s District Chief Dan Zinge also brings home his second award for Best Incident Commander.  Twenty eight teams from the US , Canada, Sweden, and the UK came to compete on September 20-22, 2006 in front of judges from as far away as Great Britain and South Africa. Lightning Causes Fire in Villa on August 16, 2006
August 16, 2006:  Lightning started a fire in a villa on Bancroft Circle in Beacon Villas.  The fire was first reported at 5:42pm by neighbors.  Crews arrived within 6 minutes to find the front of the villa heavily involved in fire with extension into the attic.  An aggressive fire attack limited damage to approximately $45,000.  The only injury was minor smoke exposure reported by a neighbor.                                               Click Here for more photos
Units Assigned: E68, E66, E70, T67, T69, S65, D65 Working Fire: P69, PH100, PH200, PH300, PH400, PH401, PH600, PH800, SH300, Sunstar Second Alarm: E62, E58, T60, S57, D69 Incident Command: D65

Fire Damages Home Early Morning of August 2, 2006
	August 2, 2006:  Just after 1:30am neighbors called 911 to report smoke coming from the roof of a home on Harbor Pointe Place.  Initial reports of the home being occupied were later corrected after learning the residents were on vacation.  On E65A's arrival they encountered heavy smoke and fire in the kitchen area of the home.  Within a few minutes conditions deteriorated as the fire raced through the attic forcing the crew to retreat temporarily until ventilation was completed.  The fire was brought under control after an aggressive attack . Two firefighters suffered minor injuries during the battle.  The fire origin is being investigated by PHFR's Fire Marshal's office.
Units Assigned: E65, E66, P67, T53, S65, D65 Working Fire: E68, PH100, PH200, PH300, PH400, PH500, PH600, SH300, Sunstar Additional Units: E62, E69, S57 Incident Command: D65

Motor Vehicle Accident US Highway 19 N & Alderman Rd.
August 1, 2006:  Shortly after 10:00am a vehicle accident just south of the intersection of US 19 and Alderman Rd claiming the lives of two people.  The accident involved a Honda that struck a pick up truck from behind then collided with an Isuzu Rodeo which then rolled numerous times ejecting one person.  He later died at Bayfront Medical Center after helicopter transport.  The Honda sustained tremendous damage that instantly killed the passenger and required the driver to be extricated by PHFR personnel.  He also was transported to Bayfront via a trauma helicopter.   One other passenger in the Rodeo was also transported to St. Joes Hospital. The driver of the pick up was uninjured. The accident remains under investigation by FHP.
Units Assigned:  E65, S65, E68, E66,  E69, T69, D69, PHFR Command Staff, Sunstar, Bayflight, and Aeromed Incident Command: D65

Brush Fire US Highway 19 N - Tarpon Springs
On June  9, 2006, PHFR assisted Tarpon Springs Fire Rescue and other North County Departments at a large brush fire off US Highway 19 North.  Units were on scene with the stubborn fire for over five hours.
Units Assigned: E69, B58, E66, B66, RH68, B54, W58, E58, Forestry, T69, E70 Incident Command: D69

PHFR Extrication Team Takes 1st Place!
On June 1 & 2, 2006, the PHFR Extrication Team competed in a regional competition with 14 other teams from the SE United States.  The competition was held on the waterfront in Clearwater and hosted by the Suncoast Extrication Coalition.  The PHFR team placed 2nd in both the limited and unlimited scenarios, but placed first in the overall competition.
	The team also received two other awards.  FF/PM Rodney Malpass was awarded the 'Best Medic' and District Chief Dan Zinge received the 'Best Incident Commander' award.  Click here for more photos from the competition.
Malpass                                 Zinge

Station 65 Reconstruction Begins

On May 22, 2006, shortly after 8am, the demolition began the reconstruction process by tearing down Station 65 .  The estimated completion time is 10 months according to Creative Contractor.  E65 is temporarily being housed in a trailer behind the site.  For construction update photos, click here.  New Photos added weekly!!!

Apartment Fire Pennsylvania Avenue
March 9 , 2006 - Palm Harbor Fire Rescue responded to an second floor apartment fire on Pennsylvania Avenue. Crews encountered heavy smoke and heat in the fire apartment with flames venting out a rear window. The crews fire was quickly contained to the apartment of origin, however the reminder of the building was evacuated. The cause of the fire was investigated by Palm Harbor and Dunedin Fire rescue investigators.
Units Assigned: E66, T67, E65, E68, P65, D65 Working Fire: E61, PH600, PH100, PH200, PH401, PH500, PH300, PH801, DU401,LK300, DU300 2nd Alarm: E69, E60, T60, S57, E70, D69 Incident Command: D65

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue
Board of Fire Commissioners Promotional Recognition

The patient was extricated and flown to the trauma center.
 

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Lieutenant Named
Career Firefighter of the Year
by the Florida State Firefighter's Association

At 9:21am someone dialed 911 and the Clearwater Fire Rescue responded. By the time the dive team and marine unit were preparing to launch, Rick had the man on the beach. The elderly male refused any treatment or transport and went on his way. One side note, the elderly man left WITH his remote control plane. While Rick was pulling him to safety, he was also pushing the remote control plane in front of both of them. Also on the following day on shift at PHFR Rick has his first working structure fire during the lunch hour. Talk about a busy day and a half.
 

February 8 - Palm Harbor Fire Rescue units responded to Sugar Bear Trail for a structure fire. Upon arrival, T67 found heavy fire showing from the garage area of a single family dwelling. Crews stretched handlines and made a knockdown on the fire. Occupamts exited the house prior to the fire department's arrival. Palm Harbor Fire Rescue was assited by T69 of Tarpon Springs FD at this incident.

Press Releases 2003

CERT Class 03-02 Practice Drill

Thermal Imaging Camera
Training Class

Nearly 150 Firefighters from around the State attended.
 

On September 13, the recent class of CERT members graduated and participated in a hands-on drill. The situation was a simulated Tornado touchdown with hazards and victims. The next course will begin on Wednesday, October 1, from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Classes will continue every Wednesday evening through November 12. The practice drill will be held on Saturday, November 15, from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm. For more pictures of this drill, visit the CERT page.