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The Finest Supporting the Bravest!

The purpose of the Fire Mechanics Section is to promote standardization of fire apparatus and equipment preventative maintenance, improve safety standards and practices, promote workshops, conferences, and seminars related to the purposes of this Section, and to promote cost savings through standardization of building and equipment purchasing and maintenance.

RECENT FIRE MECHANIC NEWS

Posted: Mar 3, 2016

A Visit to the Southampton Antique Firehouse

The Southampton Fire Department's antique hook and ladder truck as seen in a 1913 photo. 
 
The guys who met me were warm, educated, and obviously very competent. Craig Raynor, the president of the Fire Department’s antique truck committee, and Bobby Cox gave me a tour. The first question I asked was: Why was this not open to the public? Apparently they do have designs on a museum, and I think it would be a damn good one — but of course that requires more funding.

The 35-foot American LaFrance Type 14 city service hook and ladder truck, which arrived in Southampton in 1913 (it took three days to drive it out — I wonder if there was backup at the Lobster Inn), was the first firetruck model in America with a gas engine. It cast a particular spell on me: I could visualize firefighters from days gone by scurrying about it, taking ladders off, then trying to scale burning buildings to save people or douse a flame with foam from a copper canister that hung from the side.
 
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Posted: Mar 3, 2016

Streamlight® Tactical Light Boasts 2,200 Lumens

EAGLEVILLE, PA—Streamlight® Inc., a provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, introduced the brightest addition yet to its ProTac® family of lights, the ProTac HL® 4, a high-lumen (HL) flashlight that delivers 2,200 lumens of blinding white light. The “dual fuel” light also permits a choice of either 3-V CR123A lithium or Streamlight’s new 18650 rechargeable lithium ion batteries.

Designed for illuminating an entire area, including what may be obscured along perimeters or in corners, the new model uses the latest in power LED technology. The light offers high, medium, and low settings as well as a strobe for signaling or disorienting targets. The light’s TEN-TAP® programmable switch allows users to select from high/strobe/low (the factory default); high only; or low/medium/high.

“The ProTac HL 4 is one of the brightest tactical lights on the market today,” said Streamlight Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Michael F. Dineen. “It functions like a hand-held floodlight, providing wide, sweeping lighting while also delivering a strong, focused beam. It’s the perfect carry light for tactical users when clearing scenes; for outdoor enthusiasts when navigating a dark trail; or for industrial workers when flooding a work area with light.  And for added versatility, it permits users to choose from multiple power sources.”

On high, it delivers 2,200 lumens, 30,000 candela, a 346-meter beam distance, and a run time of up to one hour and 45 minutes, depending on the battery source. On low, the light provides 60 lumens, 800 candela, a beam distance of 56 meters, and a run time of up to 43 hours. The run time for the light’s strobe is up to 3.5 hours, depending on the battery used. 

The ProTac HL 4 is powered by either four included 3-V CR123A lithium batteries, with a shelf life of up to 10 years, or two of Streamlight’s new Lithium Ion 18650 rechargeable batteries. Streamlight also offers an 18650 Battery Charger that can recharge either one or two batteries simultaneously and permits charging through either AC/DC or USB power sources.

Fabricated from 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish, the light features a multifunction, pushbutton tail switch that permits one-handed operation of momentary, variable intensity or strobe modes. Its “sure grip” rubber sleeve and included lanyard ensure that users will never lose their grip.

The ProTac HL 4 is 8.63 inches long and weighs one pound, one ounce with CR123A batteries and one pound, two ounces with 18650 batteries. It has an IPX7-rated design for waterproof operation to one meter for 30 minutes, and is impact-resistance-tested to one meter.

Available in black, the ProTac HL 4 has an MSRP of $175.00 and includes Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

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Posted: Mar 3, 2016

Zico Portable Scene Light Mounting Bracket for Fire Apparatus

YARDLEY, PA—Prevent bulky portable scene lights from shifting during transport with the new Ziamatic QUIC-MOUNT Scene Light Bracket, Model QM-SLB-1. The bracket keeps collapsed portable scene lights secured and organized inside the compartment. When needed, a simple nylon strap and buckle allow for easy retrieval with or without gloves. 

Made with high-quality aluminum, it mounts to virtually any horizontal flat surface. Black powder-coating provides maximum durability and protection. Store multiple lights side by side.

Available now.

For more information, visit www.ziamatic.com.

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Posted: Mar 3, 2016

Firefighters Work to Restore Vintage Fire Truck

El Cajon Professional Firefighters Foundation (IAFF) is hoping to raise $15,200 to bring a classic fire engine back to its former glory. The money raised will go toward the restoration of a 1950 American LaFrance fire engine's motor and radiator, which need to be completely replaced, according to the foundation's mechanics.

Beyond the cost of the parts, all of the labor will be free and performed by active and retired firefighters.

Donations are tax deductible and any donations of $1,000 or more will be given an engraved plague on the fire engine, the organization says.

The foundation hopes to continue using the engine in community events such as parades. The El Cajon firefighters also hope the vehicle will play a role in raising awareness and fundraising for organizations like Make a Wish and the Burn institute.

This classic fire engine was used for local events even before IAFF owned it.


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Fire Mechanics Section Board

Chair

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Chair

Elliot Courage
North Whatcom Fire & Rescue
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Vice Chair

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Vice Chair

Mike Smith 
Pierce County Fire District #5
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Secretary

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Secretary

Greg Bach
South Snohomish County Fire & Rescue
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Director #1

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #1

Doug Jones
South Kitsap Fire & Rescue
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Director #2

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #2

Paul Spencer 
Fire Fleet Maintenance LLC
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Director #3

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #3

Jim Morris
Mountain View Fire Department
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Director #4

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #4

Arnie Kuchta

Clark County Fire District 6

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Director #6

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #6

Brett Annear
Kitsap County Fire District 18
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Director #5

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Director #5

Jay Jacks
Camano Island Fire & Rescue
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Legislative Representative

Posted: Oct 21, 2015

Legislative Representative

TBD
TBD
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Immediate Past Chair

Posted: Oct 20, 2015

Immediate Past Chair

Brian Fortner
Graham Fire & Rescue

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