12/7/06 - Engine 9-5 Covers Wilmington Fire Department

On the afternoon of December 7th, the Wilmington Fire Department responded to a building fire at 201 East 30th Street. Units arrived to find a large abandonded warehouse on fire. The incident quickly escalated to a 4 alarm fire. This would bring multiple New Castle County units to the scene. At 15:08 Hrs Aetna was dispatched for an engine to cover fire station 1 at 400 West 2nd Street. Engine 9-5 responded with a crew of 6 and arrived at station 1 at 15:33. Shortly after arriving in the city 9-5 was sent to the area of Lancaster Avenue and South Scott Street for a vehicle fire. 9-5 arrived to find a large pickup truck on fire with exposure to a building, and requested a full assignment be dispatched. 9-5's crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service, and was able to control the fire quickly. Battalion Chief 8 placed the situation under control prior to the arrival of additional units. Once clear the vehicle fire, 9-5 returned to station 1. 9-5 responded on 2 more incidents during the cover assignment. 9-5 handled a medical assist and a smoke investigation. 9-5 remained at station 1 until being released at 20:55.

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12/5/06 - Building Fire

On December 5th at 16:15 Hrs, Aetna, along with Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12) and Mill Creek Fire Company (2-21), was dispatched for a building fire in the area of Oakdale Road and Chelmsford Circle. While units were responding, Cranston Heights Fire Company (14) was added as the R.I.T. due to multiple calls reporting smoke coming from a building. Engine 3-5 arrived at 16:21 to find smoke showing from the 3rd floor of a 3 story apartment building at 571 Oakdale. Engine 8-2 came in behind 3-5, and layed a 5" supply line from a hydrant to 3-5. Crews from both engines placed 2 1 3/4" hand lines in service and advanced into the structure. Crews found fire in the interior stairwell of the building. As additional units arrived they were tasked with throwing ground ladders and searching the building. Interior crews were able to extinguish the fire in the stairwell quickly. Smoke was still found coming from the fire building as well as the B and D exposure. Once crews ventilated the roof it was determined that there was trapped heat and smoke, but no fire extension. All primary and secondary searches were negative and no injuries were reported. The incident was placed under control at 16:48. All fire department units were clear by 20:07 with the scene being turned over to the State Fire Marshal for investigation.

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11/29/06 - I-95 Crash Injures Two

On November 29th, at 12:17 Hrs, Aetna and Medic 6 were dispatched for a MVC reported with an unconscious person on Interstate 95 South Bound in the area of South College Avenue. Ambulances A-8 and A-9, along with Engine 9- 5, made the response. EMS Deputy 9 was first to arrive at 12:24, finding a crash involving a tractor trailer and a dump truck. The drivers of both vehicles were injured and required transport to the hospital. When A-8 and A-9 arrived, both crews began providing patient care. The crew from 9-5 assisted the ambulances and the medics with packaging and loading of both patients. Both ambulances transported patients to Christiana ER with 1 medic each. Once the ambulances were clear, 9-5's crew worked on containing the large amount of fluids leaking from the tractor trailer. The truck had lost all of its' engines fluids and also had a ruptured saddle tank. Due to the amount of fluids that were leaking, HAZMAT 30 and DNREC were requested to respond. Once HAZMAT 30 arrived, their crew provided spill control. The incident was placed under control at 13:24, and all units were clear by 13:39.

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11/25/06 - MVC with Vehicle on Fire

On November 25th at 13:33 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3 and ALS 21, was dispatched for a MVC reported with entrapment and vehicle on fire at the intersection of Elkton Road and Casho Mill Road. Ambulance A-9 was first to arrive at 13:37. The crew found a 2 vehicle crash with 1 vehicle having an engine compartment fire. A quick check of both vehicles involved found that there was no entrapment, and all subjects were out of the vehicles. A-9's crew began patient care on the driver of the vehicle that was now on fire. Engine 7-4 arrived at 13:40, and the crew placed the booster line in service in order to extinguish the fire. Also one member of 7-4's crew checked the driver of the second vehicle for any injuries. 7-4's crew was able to extinguish the fire quickly and the scene was placed under control at 13:43. A-9 transported 1 patient to CER. The driver of the second vehicle ended up refusing medical treatment. All Aetna units were clear by 14:26.

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11/15/06 - Engine Assists on House Fire

On November 15th at 11:46 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an engine to assist Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12) on a house fire at 14 Olb Baltimore Pike. First arriving unist found fire showing from the second floor. Engine 9-3 made the response and arrived on scene at 12:01. The fire was found to be on the second floor and in the attic. 9-3's crew was first sent to the roof to assist with ventilation. The crew also assisted with fire suppression in the attic area. Once the bulk of the fire was extinguished, 9- 3's crew assisted with overhaul. The crew operated on scene for about an hour, and 9-3 was released at 13:03.

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11/11/06 - MVC with Car Split in Half Results in Fatality

On November 11th at 09:15 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3, ALS 21, Trooper 4, University of Delaware Ambulance UD-1, and Christiana Fire Company Ambulance B-6, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Elkton Road and Casho Mill Road. Engine 10-5 was first to arrive at 09:19, finding a 2 vehicle crash with 1 car completely ripped in half. The rear section of the car remained in the roadway, while the front section was up against a utility pole. 10-5's crew found the driver of this car to be in respiratory arrest, and she was rapidly extricated. By this time Trooper 4 and EMS 9 had arrived on scene. The Trooper Medic and EMT from EMS 9 began patient treatment. Once UD-1 arrived on scene, the patient was loaded and transported to Christiana ER with the Trooper Medic and 1 member of Medic 3. The driver of the second vehicle was found to have no life threatening injuries. He was transported to Christiana ER by B-6 with the second member from Medic 3. Unfortunately the driver of the first car succumbed to her injuries a short time later at the hospital. Captain 9 placed the scene under control at 09:42, and 10-5 remained on scene for another hour. Aetna Fire Police remained on scene for several hours to assist Newark Police with traffic control during the lengthy investigation.

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10/30/06 - Aetna Assists at 2 Working Fires on Same Night

On October 30th at 20:20 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an Engine and Rescue to assist Hockessin Fire Company (19) on a working garage fire at 9 Revelstone Drive. Engine 9-5 and Rescue 8 made the response. 9-5 ended up being the first arriving engine, and found a 30' x 30' garage fully involved with exposure problems. 9-5 layed a 5" supply line from a nearby hydrant and the crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service. Initially the crew extinguished all exposures, and then the attack was directed on the garage. As additional crews arrived, more hand lines were pulled off of 9-5 to assist with extinguishment. As crews were operating at this fire, Aetna was dispatched at 20:39 Hrs for an engine to assist Mill creek Fire Company on a house fire on Granville Road off of Upper Pike Creek Road. Squrt 7 and Engine 9-3 responded on this alarm. First arriving units found fire in the walls that was spreading up to the 2nd floor and attic areas. Aetna crews assisted with overhaul operations at this fire. Aetna units were clear from both alarms by 22:17.

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10/28/06 - Fatal House Fire

On October 28th at 05:05 Hrs, Aetna, along with Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil county 3-13-14), Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12), Mill Creek Fire Company (2-21), Cranston Heights Fire Company (14), Medic 3, Medic 6, ALS 12, ALS 22, EMS 1, Ambulance A-28 (Wilmington Manor), and Ambulance UD-1 (University of Delaware), was dispatched for a house fire with confirmed subject trapped at 1 Panorama Drive. Reports also indicated that a second subject had escaped the house, and was injured. Ambulance A-9 was first to arrive at 05:11. The crew found smoke showing from the 2nd floor of the residence, and reported their findings to Fire Board. Ambulance A-7 arrived next, and the crew began patient care on the subject that had escaped the house. A-9's crew was advised by several neighbors and police officers that there was an elderly female trapped in a second floor bedroom closest to the D-side. Engine 7-4 arrived at 05:13, followed by Engine 9-5 at 05:14. 9-5 layed a 5" supply line from a hydrant to 7-4. Crews from both engines began entry into the structure. 2 firefighters went to the 2nd floor bedroom where the trapped subject was reported via ground ladder. As additional firefighters placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service, the crew at the bedroom entered through the window and began a primary search. As additional apparatus arrived the crews were tasked with laddering the structure, ventilation, search, and placing additional hand lines in service. Interior crews found fire on the B-side of the second floor and in the basement as well. Extinguishment was completed rather quickly. After the primary search was unsuccessful, a secondary search was initiated. While the search was underway, additional crews began checking for extension. During the secondary search the victim was found in a rear bathroom area. She was found to be pulse less and not breathing. She was removed from the structure and pronounced DOA. The first patient was transported to Christiana ER by A-7 and Medic 3. He was later transferred to Crozier Burn Center in Pennsylvania, where he was listed in critical condition. Chief 9-8 placed the incident under control at 06:02 with all units working. Mutual aid companies began clearing up around 06:30. Aetna crews remained on scene for several hours to assist the Fire Marshal with the investigation and to perform overhaul.

Units on scene: A-7, A-9, A-10, 7-4, Squrt 7, 8-2, Rescue 8, 9-5, EMS 9, 2- 7, 21-7, Rescue 21, Cecil County 3-1-4, Ladder 12, Rescue 14, B-14, A-28, UD- 1, Medic 3, Medic 6, ALS 12, ALS 22, EMS 1, Newark Police, DSFM, Arson 1, Newark FM, and Aetna Fire Police.

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10/20/06 - Paper Mill Road Entrapment

At just after 07:30 on October 20th, Aetna, along with Medic 3, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment in the 900 block of Paper Mill Road. Medic 3 was first to arrive, finding a SUV that had crashed into a large tree. Medic 3 confirmed entrapment on the driver of the vehicle. Ambulance B-9 was next to arrive on scene. The vehicle had sustained severe damage, which had left the driver seat the only area still intact. Due to the damage patient access was limited, but the patient was awake and talking. Once Engine 9-5 arrived, their Holmatro combination tool was placed in service. The tool was utilized to open the driver's door, and once that was completed no further extrication was necessary. The patient was fully immobilized and removed from the vehicle. Extrication was completed at 07:55. The patient was transported to Christiana ER by B-9 and Medic 3. The scene was placed under control at 07:58 and units cleared the scene by 08:09.

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10/6/06 - MVC with Entrapment and Fatality

On October 6th at 13:01 hrs, Aetna, along with New Castle County Paramedics, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Red Mill Road and Darwin Drive. Ambulances A-8, A-10, Rescue 8, and Engine 9- 5 made the response. The first units arrived on scene at 13:06, finding a 3 vehicle crash. It was also found that there was a total of 6 patients requiring transport, so 3 more BLS units were requested. This brought B-2 (Mill Creek), B-6 (Christiana), and A-14 (Cranston Heights) to the scene. 1 of the vehicles involved had 4 occupants, with the front seat passenger being trapped and in cardiac arrest. Once Rescue 8 and 9-5 arrived, the crews placed their Holmatro tools in service in order to remove the passenger side doors from the vehicle. Once all patients were extricated and packaged, they were transported to Christiana ER. The patient that was in cardiac arrest was pronounced DOA at the ER. The incident was placed under control at 13:24. The scene was turned over to DSP for investigation and all Aetna units were clear by 14:00.

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10/4/06 - Fatal Pedestrian Struck

On October 4th at 05:26 Hrs, Aetna, along with New Catle County Paramedics, was dispatched for a pedestrian struck by vehicle at the intersection of South Chapel Street and East Chestnut Hill Road. Ambulances A-8, A-9, and Engine 9-5 made the response. Units arrived on scene to find that the pedestrian had been fatally injured. Once ALS arrived, the subject was pronounced DOA at the scene. The incident was placed under control at 05:45, and all EMS units cleared shortly there after. 9-5 stood by and provided lights for DSP's investigation until DELDOT arrived on scene. 9-5 cleared at 06:37.

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10/3/06 - MVC with Entrapment

On October 3rd at 08:36 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at 303 New London Road. Ambulances A-8, B-9, and Engine 9-5 responded. Units arrived at 08:41 to find a chain reaction crash involving a van, a jeep, and a tractor trailer. The jeep had been sandwiched between the van and tractor trailer, causing the 2 rear seat passengers to become trapped. It was found that there was a total of 4 injuries and a 3rd BLS unit was requested. This would bring University of Delaware ambulance UD- 1 to the scene. As EMS crews provided patient care, 9-5's crew set up their Holmatro Tools for the extrication. Once the jeep was stabilized extrication was initiated. Crews utilized the combination tool and O-cutter in order to remove both rear doors. Once both doors were removed, crews were able to package both patients. Both patients that had been trapped, along with a 3rd patient from the jeep, were transported to Christiana ER by A-8, B-9, and Medic 3. The driver of the van was packaged and transported to Christiana ER by UD-1. Once all patients had been transported, the scene was placed under control at 09:30. All Aetna units were clear the scene by 09:39 and the scene was turned over to Newark Police.

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9/19/06 - Rollover Crash Injures 1

On September 19th at 12:48 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a MVC with injuries at 485 West Chestnut Hill Road. Ambulances A-8, B-9, and Engine 9-5 responded. A-8 and 9-5 arrived at 12:55 and found a single vehicle crash, where a pick-up truck had rolled over. A-8's crew began providing patient care to the driver who was already out of the vehicle. As crews began packaging the patient ALS was requested and a Medic unit responded. Once the patient was packaged and loaded, A-8 initiated transport to Christiana ER. A- 8 met up with ALS while enroute to the hospital. With the patient transported, 9-5 placed the scene under control at 13:00. The scene was then turned over to DSP and all Aetna units cleared the scene by 13:20.

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9/1/06 - Smoke Showing on South College Avenue

On September 1st at 16:17 Hrs, Aetna, along with Christiana Fire Company (3-6- 12) and Mill Creek Fire Company (2-21), was dispatched for a house fire at 426 South College Avenue. Ambulance A-8 was nearby and arrived on scene at 16:20. The crew found smoke coming from around a front door of the house, and reported smoke showing. A quick check with the occupants determined that everyone had already evacuated the structure. Engine 9-5 arrived 2 minutes later and laid a 5" supply line from a hydrant. A 1 3/4" hand line was placed in service and advanced to the front door. Once entry was made, fire was found issuing from above the door. The hose team quickly extinguished all visible fire. As additional resources arrived (Engines 8-2, 9-3, and 3- 5, Squrt 7, Ladder 12, and Rescue 21), they began checking the basement and 2nd floor for any further extension. No fire extension was found beyond the 1st floor. Crews then performed ventilation and overhaul. Chief 9-8 placed the scene under control at 16:46. Mutual aid units cleared shortly there after. All Aetna units were clear the scene by 17:32 with the scene turned over to the Newark Fire Marshal.

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8/24/06 - MVC with Rollover and Ejection

On August 24th at 18:01 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, ALS 21, Trooper 4, and Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12) Ambulance B-3, was dispatched for a MVC reported with rollover and ejection with a subject possibly trapped underneath a vehicle at the intersection of South College Avenue (Route 896) and Four Seasons Parkway. Ambulances A-9 and A-10, Engine 10-5, and Rescue 8 made the response. While units were responding, Fire Board advised them that the trapped subject was reported to have been removed from underneath of the vehicle. EMS Deputy 9 was first to arrive at 18:06. He found a 2 vehicle crash with a truck overturned. He advised that there were 2 priority 1 trauma patients and requested a 2nd helicopter be dispatched. Medic 6 arrived at the same time, and both paramedics initiated patient care on both victims. Life Net was the 2nd helicopter to respond. As additional units arrived, the crew members began assisting with patient care and packaging. The first patient to be transported was the driver of the overturned truck. Bystanders confirmed that he had been ejected and had been trapped underneath of the truck. They had lifted the truck off of him prior to any fire or EMS units arriving. Although he was initially unconscious, he was now awake and talking. Once he was packaged, he was loaded into Trooper 4 and was flown to Christiana ER where he was made a trauma alert. The 2nd patient was packaged and loaded into Life Net, and was then flown to Christiana ER where he was made a trauma alert as well. Once both patients were transported, crews handled debris and fluid clean up. The scene was placed under control by Deputy 8 at 18:24. All units were finally clear the scene at 19:48.

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8/21/06 - Rescue Assists on Double Fatal Crash

On August 21st at 15:12 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for Rescue 8 to assist Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14) on a MVC with entrapment in the 5800 block of Telegraph Road. Rescue 8 made the response and arrived at 15:25. Singerly and Cecil County EMS units were already on scene with a 2 vehicle head-on crash. Singerly's Rescue and Engine were working to extricate the driver of a Honda Civic. Rescue 8's crew was instructed to extricate the driver of the Corvette. EMS workers provided patient care, while Rescue 8's crew went to work. They stabilized the vehicle, and placed their Holmatro tools in service in order to remove the driver side door. Once the door was removed, the crew assisted with removing the patient from the vehicle. He was in critical condition with multiple injuires, and he was not breathing on his own. Once the driver of the Corvette was removed, the crew assisted Singerly with removing the patient from the Honda. She was also critically injured. 2 Maryland State Police helicopters (Troopers 1 & 6) landed at the scene in order to transport the patients. The rescue crew assisted in loading the corvette driver in to MSP Trooper 1. He was then flown to Christiana ER. The second patient was flown there as well. Unfortunately both patients succumbed to their serious injuries a short time later. Rescue 8 operated at the scene for an hour, and was released at 16:25.

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8/12/06 - Fatal Elkton Road Crash

On August 12th at 08:27 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, ALS 21, and EMS 1, was dispatched for a MVC with rollover and entrapment at 950 Elkton Road. Ambulances A-8 and A-9, Engines 7-4 and 9-5, and Rescue 8 all made the response. Assistant Chief 9-8B was first to arrive at 08:30. He found a convertible that had rolled over and was now on its' top. As additional units arrived they were able to open the cars' doors and make access to the occupant. He was found to be not breathing and to have no pulse. Once the subject was removed from the vehicle, it was determined that he had injuries incompatible with life. He was pronounced DOA at the scene by Medic 6. 9-8B placed the scene under control at 08:37 and all Aetna units were clear by 09:30.

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8/8/06 - Late Night Entrapment

At just before midnight on August 8th, Aetna, along with Medic 3 and ALS 24, was dispatched for a MVC with a rollover on Route 273 west bound at Ogletown Road. Ambulances A-7 and A-8, Engines 7-4 and 8-4 (Running in place of Rescue 8), and EMS 9 all made the response. While units were responding they were advised of a 2nd report stating that there was a subject trapped and unconscious. Units arrived to find a single vehicle crash. The car had rolled over an unknown amount of times, and was now resting on its' tires. The driver was found to be conscious and trapped. The crew from A-8 began patient care inside of the vehicle, while the engine crews set up for the extrication. The car was quickly stabilized and then 8-4's Holmatro combination tool was placed in service. The combination tool was used to open the driver's door. Once that door was opened, the patient was able to be removed from the vehicle. He was immobilized and placed in A-8 for transport. A-8 transported the patient to Christiana ER with Medic 3. Chief 9-8 placed the scene under control at 00:18. Crews that remained on scene handled cleaning up a large amount of debris before clearing the scene at 00:40.

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8/6/06 - HAZMAT Incident

On August 6th at 13:51 Hrs, Aetna, along with Haz Mat Units from Cranston Heights Fire Company (14), Elsmere Fire Company (16), Five Points Fire Company (17), and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), was dispatched for an Ammonia leak at The Pond Ice Arena located at 101 John F. Campbell Drive. The leak was noticed when the arena Ammonia alarm activated. This alarm is set for 30 Parts Per Million (PPM). Approximately 100 patrons were inside at the time the alarm activated, and they were all able to evacuate the building unharmed. The 2 employees that were working made an attempt to stop the leak, but they were unsuccessful. Deputy 7 arrived shortly after dispatch, followed by Engine 9-5, EMS 9, Deputy 8, and Deputy 9 at 13:55. Deputy 7 was advised by an employee that the leak was in the compressor room at the number 2 compressor. The room, located on the C-side, held 2 compressors and tanks containing about 800 pounds of Anhydrous Ammonia each. While Deputy 9 set up the command post on the A-side, 9-5's set up on the B-side for an attempt at entry. The crew, in full turnout gear and SCBA, made entry into the compressor room through a roll up garage door in order to locate the leak. The crew was unable to quickly locate the leak, so the decision was made to leave the room and have HAZMAT team members make entry. The Ammonia leak was coming from a 1/4" line at about 25 pounds of pressure at the bottom of the number 2 compressor. Once 9-5's crew exited the building they were quickly decontaminated, and all units on scene relocated to the A-side of the building. While 9-5's crew was operating inside, Engine 7-4 and Rescue 8 arrived. 7-4 had Assistant Chief 7-8B and another firefighter on board, who are both part of the New Castle County Haz Mat team. They were both assigned to Aetna Haz Mat operations. Once units from 14, 16, and 17 arrived, they began setting up their Decon area. EMS 9 set up EMS command next to the fire command post, and the request for multiple BLS units and a Medic unit to respond was made. Station 30 (Belvedere) was then requested for their Haz Mat unit, and Station 24 (Odessa) was requested for their Rehab unit. The 2 employees that had attempted to stop the leak were evaluated, and 1 would require transport to the hospital. He was transported to Christiana ER by Ambulance A-23 (Minquas). Prior to the arrival of entry team members, the on scene Haz Mat crews started monitoring for ammonia gas concentration. The first readings, made with specialized meters, found the levels to be 10 PPM in the lobby and 17 PPM at the floor in the Olympic Rink area. No measurable levels of Ammonia were detected outside of the building at the A-side. The smell of Ammonia was detectable at sides B and C. 30 minutes after the first Ammonia level readings were taken, a 2nd check found lobby readings to be at 150 PPM. Once all entry team members from DNREC, Environmental Protection, and the Industrial Haz Mat team arrived, they were briefed on the situation. They then consulted with employees of the building in order to determine where the leak was, and the procedures needed to stop it. A 3 member entry team, and a 3 member back-up team were assembled and briefed on the situation by leaders and rink personnel. While this was going on, the rehab area had been completely set up. Also Ambulances A-8, A-9, A-18 (Goodwill), A-27 (Middletown), A-29 (Port Penn), B-15 (Delaware City), Medic 7, ALS 16, and the University of Delaware Mobile Command Post were now on scene. All members of the entry team were placed in level A suits with SCBA, and they entered the building at 16:21 Hrs. While inside the compressor room, they found Ammonia levels to be 1900 PPM. They were able to secure the leak, and reported that to command at 16:33 Hrs. They were removed from the building and decontaminated. The decontamination consisted of standing in front of fans, and then going through a water shower. Shortly after the initial entry team exited the building, another team, also in level A suits, was sent into the building in order to secure a roll up door at the rear of compressor room. This was done in order to allow the buildings' exhaust system to purge the Ammonia from the arenas. The Ammonia level at the roll up door was 800 PPM. Once all entry teams were decontaminated, they were sent to the rehab area. A debriefing was held and it was determined that no further entries from the Haz Mat team would be needed. At this point all Haz Mat units began standing down and packing up their equipment. Deputy 9 placed the incident under control at 17:23. The operation was turned over to DNREC for further action. Fortunately, other than the 1 employee requiring medical treatment, no other injuries resulted from this incident. All fire, EMS, and Haz Mat units were clear the scene by 18:05.

Units on scene: A-8, A-9, 7-4, Rescue 8, 9-5, EMS 9, Haz Mat 14, Haz Mat Decon 16, Rescue 17, Haz Mat support 17, Haz Mat 30, B-15, A-18, A-23, A-27, A-29, Rehab 24, UD Mobile Command Post, DNREC, Industrial Haz Mat Team, Medic 7, ALS 16, and Aetna Fire Police.

Aetna Stations were covered by: Engine 12-1 (West Grove), Rescue 23 (Minquas), Ambulance B-4 (Odessa), Ambulance A-19 (Hockession), and Ambulance 3-9-1 (Singerly).

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8/5/06 - Jeep Up-ended in I-95 Crash

On August 5th at 09:21 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, ALS-23, and EMS- 1, was dispatched for a MVC reported with rollover on Interstate 95 North Bound at the Toll Plaza. Ambulances A-8 and A-9, Deputy 9, EMS 9, and Engine 7-4 all made the response. A-8 was first to arrive at 09:21, finding a 4 vehicle crash with no rollover. They also found an unusual sight of a car that had gone underneath of a Jeep and pushed the rear end of the Jeep up in the air. As additional units arrived all occupants of the 4 vehicles were checked for injuries. Only one person was found requiring transport to the hospital. That patient was checked by Medic 6 and determined to have BLS injuries only. The patient was then transported to Christiana ER by A-8. All ALS units cleared, and Aetna units remained on scene until the Jeep was moved off of the car. Deputy 9 placed the scene under control at 09:43 and all units cleared by 10:36.

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8/2/06 - Salem Church Road Entrapment

On August 2nd at 18:54 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, was dispatched for an MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Salem Church Road and East Chestnut Hill Road. Ambulances A-7 and B-9, Engines 7-4 and 9-5, and Rescue 8 all made the response. B-9 and Rescue 8 were first to arrive at 18:59, finding the crash to actually be 500 feet down on Salem Church Road. They found an SUV that had struck a parked mini-van, and was now resting on the driver side. The driver of the SUV was found to be trapped in his vehicle. Rescue 8's crew first stabilized the SUV, and then removed the windshield so that patient care could be initiated. The patient was found to be conscious and alert, and not suffering from life threatening injuries. The crews from A-7 and B-9 provided Pt care while extrication was being performed. Rescue 8's Holmatro Cutters were used to cut the steering column, so that the patient could be removed through the windshield. Crews were going to attempt to flap the roof, but that was found not to be needed. Once the steering column was cut, the patient was able to be placed on a back board and was removed from the vehicle. This was completed in less than 15 minutes. The patient was then loaded into B-9 and transported to Christiana ER with Medic 6. The scene was placed under control at 19:14. All units were able to clear by 19:29, and the scene was turned over to Delaware State Police. MVC with Entrapment

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7/29/06 - MVC with Entrapment

On July 29th at 16:58 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 7 and Trooper 4, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Paper Mill Road and Starling Street. Ambulance A-9 and Rescue 8 made the response. A-9 and Trooper 4 were first to arrive at 17:06. They found a head-on crash involving 2 cars, with 1 driver trapped and a total of 3 people injured. 2 additional BLS units were requested, which brought A-19 (Hockessin Fire Company) and B-2 (Mill Creek Fire Company) to the scene. Rescue 8 arrived at 17:13, and the crew began stabilization. Once the vehicle was stabilized, Rescue 8's crew placed their Holmatro extrication tools in service. In order to remove the trapped victim the crew had to remove the roof and both driver side doors. Once the patient was extricated, he was placed in Trooper 4 and was flown to Christiana ER. The other 2 patients from the 2nd vehicle were transported to Christiana ER by A-19 and B-2 with Medics. The scene was placed under control at 17:29, and all units were clear by 17:58.

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7/28/06 - Assist at Fatal House Fire

On July 28th at 11:47 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an engine and ladder to assist Christiana Fire Compnay (3-6-12) on a house fire with subjects trapped at 207 Holly Cove Lane. Ambulance A-8 was also added to the response due to the possibility of injuries. Ladder 9 and Engine 8-2 made the response. While units were responding EMS 12 arrived and reported fire showing with 2 subjects unaccounted for. First arriving units encountered heavy fire conditions inside the structure. Once Ladder 9 arrived, the crew was ordered to ventilate the roof. The crew used a quick vent saw to cut a 4 x 4 hole in the roof. Once the hole was opened a large amount of smoke and fire pushed out. At this point the crew had to retreat from the roof. As this was going on interior crews found 1 of the trapped victims and removed her to awaiting EMS units. Once back on the ground Ladder 9's crew was sent to the interior to assist with extinguishment in the 1st floor kitchen area. Shortly after going in service in the kitchen an evacuation of the structure order was given. As the evacuation process was underway the 2nd victim was found and also removed from the structure. 8-2 arrived and was sent to assist with exterior extinguishment operations on the C-side. Ladder 9's crew assisted exterior operations on the A-side. The first victim that was removed was transported to Christiana ER by A-8 and Medic 8 as CPR in progress. Unfortunately that victim was pronounced at the ER. The second victim was pronounced at the scene. As the on scene units initiated the exterior attack, the IC requested a 2nd alarm response. Firefighters operated for over an hour before the fire was placed under control at 13:07. Units from Aetna remained on scene assisting with overhaul, until being released at 14:46.

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7/22/06 & 7/24/06 - 2 House Fires on the Same Street

On July 22nd at 20:32 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an engine to assist Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12) on a house fire at 12 Jaymar Boulevard. Engine 9-5 made the response shortly after dispatch. While 9-5 was responding, Engine 3-5 went on scene with nothing evident from side A. Upon entering the structure firefighters were faced with heavy fire conditions on the 1st floor rear, that quickly spread to the 2nd floor and attic. In a short period of time there was fire through the roof, and multiple hand lines were placed in service. 9-5 arrived and reported to the OIC for an assignment. 9-5's crew was sent to the basement for a search of that area. By the time that search was completed, the bulk of the fire had been knocked down. The crew was then sent to the second floor to assist with overhaul operations. 9-5 operated at the scene until being released at 22:02 Hrs. 2 days later on July 24th at 13:12 Hrs, Aetna was again dispatched for an engine to assist Christiana on a house fire, but this time at 322 Jaymar Boulevard. 9-5 responded immdeately, and while on the road 3-5 went on scene with smoke showing from the 2nd floor. 9-5 arrived at 13:19 Hrs, after dropping 1 member off at the hydrant to hook up 3-5's supply line. 9-5's crew stood by in the front yard until the OIC advised them to advance a 2nd hand line into the structure. The crew attempted to advance the line to the 2nd floor, but were held in the stairwell by the crews that were already operating on that floor. While standing by in the stairwell, fire was found in the 1st floor kitchen. The crew advanced the line into the kitchen and extinguished the fire there. After extinguishment extension checks were performed. Part of 9-5's crew also handled searching of the basement. After interior tasks were handled, the crew exited the house and cooled off. 9-5 operated on the scene until being released at 14:24 Hrs.

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7/15/06 - Fly Out on the Interstate

On July 15th at 16:53 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, ALS 21, Paramedic 631, and Trooper 4, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment on Interstate 95 North Bound in the area of the toll plaza. Ambulances A-9 and B-9, Engine 9- 5, Rescue 8, and EMS 9 all made the response. Paramedic 631 was first to arrive and found the crash to be south of the toll plaza, almost at Otts Chapel Road. The crash involved a box truck and 2 passenger cars that had all slid off of the roadway and almost into some trees. Paramedic 631 confirmed 1 subject trapped and advised Trooper 4 would be utilized. A-9 was next to arrive, and that crew began treating a second subject that was injured. When 9-5 arrived, that crew began stabilizing the car with the trapped patient, and began placing their Holmatro extrication tools in service. Once the extrication tools were in service, 9-5's crew was able to use the combination tool to remove the part of the dash board that was on top of the patient's legs. Once that was completed crews from B-9 and 9-5 were able to remove the patient from the car. While the extrication was going on, A-9's crew was able to package their patient and transport to Christiana ER. The patient that had been trapped was packaged and moved to Trooper 4 for transport. Once the patient was loaded, Trooper 4 then transported to Christiana ER. In all only 2 subjects required transport to the hospital. All of the other occupants involved denied injury and refused medical treatment. Deputy 8 had command and placed the scene under control at 17:20. All Fire Department units were clear by 17:45 with the scene being turned over to Delaware State Police.

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7/7/06 - Paper Mill Road Entrapment

On July 7th at 11:54 Hrs, Aetna, along with ALS 21 and Medic 6, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Paper Mill Road and Cleveland Avenue. Ambulance B-9 and Engine 9-5 both made the response. Units arrived at 11:58 finding the crash to actually be just north of Cleveland Avenue at the intersection of Paper Mill Road and Creekview Drive. The crash was found to involve a single vehicle vs a utility pole with the driver of the car being trapped. B-9's crew began providing patient care, while 9-5's crew set up for extrication. The car sustained significant damage to the driver side front, and would require a door removal and dash displacement in order to remove the patient. Once the vehicle was stabilized, 9-5's crew placed their Holmatro rescue tools in service. The crew first utilized their combination tool in order to remove the door. Then the cutter was used to cut the A and B posts, and make a relief cut for the dash displacement. Once those cuts were made, a ram was used to push the driver side dash board off of the patients legs. Once the patients legs were free, he was placed on a back board and removed from the vehicle. Extrication was completed in less than 15 minutes. The patient, who was conscious and alert the entire time, was transported to Christiana ER by B-9 and Medic 6 as a Trauma Alert. 9-5 placed the scene under control at 12:16. 9-5 cleared at 12:32 and turned the scene over to Newark Police and City Electric.

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7/1/06 - Fatal MVC with Entrapment

On July 1st at 02:09 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3, Paramedic 589, ALS 21, and ALS 16, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of Elkton Road and Christina Parkway. Ambulance A-9 had just cleared a EMS call near-by and arrived at 02:10. A-9's crew found a 2 vehicle crash with both vehicles being approximately 50 feet apart. A-9's crew split in order to check on injuries. A SUV was found to have 2 occupants with minor injuries who were already out of the vehicle. The 2nd vehicle was a small car that had been struck in the drivers' door. The driver of that vehicle was found to be trapped and in cardiac arrest. A-9's crew initiated resuciation efforts on that patient. ALS 21 and Engine 7-4 arrived on scene by 02:16. A-9's crew tried to rapidly extricate their patient, but were unable to get her legs free. 7-4's crew was advised of this, and they set up for extrication. At this point Medic 3 also arrived. The vehicle was first stabilized, and then 7-4's holmatro combination tool was placed in service. While the extrication was going on, Ambulance A-8 and Paramedic 589 arrived and began assessing the 2 occupants of the SUV. 1 was a refusal and the 2nd was transported to Christiana ER BLS only. As the extrication was beingcompleted, ALS contacted Christiana ER via Med Channel and received orders for pronouncement. Engine 9-5 and Rescue 8 also made the response, but the extrication was completed prior to their arrival. Assistant Chief 9- 8B placed the scene under control at 02:36, and requested DELDOT to respond in order to assist with the lengthy closing of the roadway. 9-5 stood-by in order to provide lighting until the arrival of a DELDOT light tower. Once that arrived, 9-5 cleared at 03:00 and the scene was turned over to Newark police for the investigation.

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6/30/06 - MVC with Pedestrian Struck and Rollover

On June 30th at 06:54 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3 and Trooper 4, was dispatched for an MVC involving a pedestrian struck and vehicle rollover at the intersection of Polly Drummond Hill Road and Foxfire Drive. Ambulances A- 8 and A-9 along with Engine 9-5 made the response. A-8 was first to arrive at 07:01. They found that a State Police Officer had been struck, and the SUV that struck him had rolled over. The officer had been on the shoulder performing a traffic stop when he and his vehicle were struck. The striking vehicle ended up on its' side, but the driver was able to exit the SUV prior to Fire and EMS units arriving on scene. A-8's crew began patient care on the police officer due to the fact that he was more seriously injured. A-9 arrived at 07:03, and that crew began treating the driver of the SUV. A-8 advised that Trooper 4 would be utilized for the officer, and they were advised to land in a near-by yard. Once the officer was packaged, he was loaded into Trooper 4 and flown to Christiana ER. The other patient was transported to Christiana ER by A-9 and Medic 3. 9-5 placed the scene under control at 07:27. All Fire Department units were clear the scene by 07:41, with the scene being turned over to Delaware State Police for their investigation.

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6/27/06 - Big Truck vs Low Underpass = 1 Injured

On June 27th at 14:50 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a MVC with injuries at the Casho Mill Road Underpass. This underpass goes underneath of the rail road, and several times each year large trucks try to make it through without succeeding. Ambulances A-8 and A-9 along with Engine 9-5 made the response. Units arrived to find a U-Haul truck vs the underpass with the single occupant already out of the vehicle. The truck received damage to the top of the box as well as a bent frame. The driver received minor injuries and required transport to the hospital. He was packaged by A-9's crew and transported to Christiana ER. The scene was placed under control at 15:08, and all Aetna units were clear by 15:16.

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6/26/06 - Building Fire

On June 26th at 12:41 Hrs, Aetna, along with Mill Creek Fire Company (2- 21), Cranston Heights Fire Company (14), and Christiana Fire Company (3-6- 12), was dispatched for a building fire at 20 Fairway Road. Engine 9-5 and Ambulance A-8 were first to respond, with the initial report being of fire on the 3rd floor. A-8 was first to arrive, finding nothing evident from the front of the building. Deputy 7, who was on A-8, made his way to the 3rd floor where he found a smoke filled apartment. At the same time 9-5 arrived and gave a report of smoke showing from the rear of the building. This added New Castle County Paramedics and Hockessin Fire Company (19) to the response. 9-5 layed a 5" supply line from a hydrant and pulled to the front of the building. 9-5's crew advanced a 1 3/4" hand line to the 3rd floor apartment. The hand line crew found fire in a rear bedroom, that was extending out into the hallway. Ladder 12 was next to arrive, and that crew was sent to the roof for ventilation. As 9-5's crew performed extinguishment, additional crews arrived and performed searches and ventilation inside the building. Interior crews were able to make quick work of the fire. Once the fire was extinguished, overhaul and secondary searchs were performed. Deputy 7 placed the scene under control at 13:39. All Fire Department units were clear the scene by 15:17, with the scene being turned over to the State Fire Marshal.

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6/21/06 - Rail Road Ties on Fire

Just after 9 P.M. on June 21st, Station 9 was alerted by red phone for a fire of unknown origin in the area of the Christina Parkway Bridge over the Conrail Rail Road. Engine 9-5 made the response, and they were quickly advised that a 2nd call reported a pile of Rail Road ties on fire at the rear of the Chrysler Plant. As 9-5 headed in that direction they could see a large column of black smoke from the area. Fortunately there was a hydrant located near the rail yard, so when 9-5 arrived at 21:15 they layed 800 feet of 5" supply line from that hydrant. 9-5's officer also requested additional engines due to the large pile that was involved. At the same time Newark Police handled closing off Christina Parkway due to flames and smoke that were hindering visability. 9-5's crew immediately placed 2 1 3/4" hand lines in service and began attacking the fire. As supression was initiated Squrt 7 and Engine 8-2 made the response. Upon their arrival the majority of the visible fire had been knocked down, but there was still fire burning within the pile. Rail Yard officials advised that they would be able to bring in a back-hoe in order to break apart the pile. Crews continued to hose down the pile while they waited for the back-hoe to arrive. Once back-hoe arrived it began breaking apart the pile, and hose crews continued extinguishment. Deputy 8 had command and placed the scene under control at 23:16. Once extinguishment and packing up was completed, all units were clear at 00:09.

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6/15/06 - Shed Fire

On June 15th at 04:15 Hrs, Aetna, along with Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14), was dispatched for a shed on fire at 1314 Whittaker Road. Engine 9-5 and Ambulance A-7 made the response. 9-5 arrived at 04:24, and found a 8 x 12 foot shed fully involved. 9-5's crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service in order to extinguish the fire. 9-5 was able to knock down the bulk of the fire in minutes. The fire was placed under control at 04:38 with 9-5 and A-7 being held on scene. Once extinguishment and overhaul was completed all units were clear by 05:45.

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6/10/06 - Motorcycle Crash with 2 Trauma Alerts

On June 10th at 15:45 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6 and Trooper 4, was dispatched for a MVC involving an all terrain vehicle at 66 Highland Circle. Ambulance A-8, Brush 7-0, Rescue 8, EMS 9, Medic 6, ALS 22, EMS 1, and Trooper 4 all made the response. A-8, EMS 9, and 7-0 were first to arrive at 15:53. They found that the crash actually involved a 3 wheeled motorcycle that had left the roadway and crashed next to a water retention pond. Crews found that the motorcycle passenger was the more seriously injured. They began patient care and packaging as Medic 6 arrived. It was determined that the first patient would be a trauma alert, and she would be flown by Trooper 4. Crews from A-8 and 7-0 along with 1 member of Medic 6 moved the first patient to A-8, so that she could be transported to the landing zone. As this was going on additional medics began treating the operator of the motorcycle. Once the first patient was placed into Trooper 4, she was flown to Christiana ER. A-8 returned back to the scene for the second patient. He was packaged and transported to Christiana ER by A-8 and Medic 6 also as a trauma alert. The scene was placed under control at 16:13 and all fire department units were clear by 16:36. The scene was turned over to New Castle County Police.

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6/7/06 - Multi Vehicle Crash Injures 4

On June 7th at 19:40 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6 and ALS 23, was dispatched for a MVC with entrapment at the intersection of East Chestnut Hill Road and Argyle Road. As units went responding they were advised that an Aetna member was on scene advising no entrapment. Ambulance A-7 and Rescue 8 were first to arrive at 19:43. They found a 3 vehicle crash with at least 3 subjects injured. Crews began providing patient care and packaging to those that were injured. Engine 9-5 was next to arrive, and that crew also assisted with patient care and packaging. It was determined that all 3 subjects required transport, so 2 additional BLS units were requested. This brought Ambulances A-8 and B-9 to the scene. All patients were assessed by ALS, and it was determined that all of them were BLS only. A fourth subject also decided to be evaluated at the hospital, and was transported along with the other 3. A-7 transported 1 patient, B-9 transported 1 patient, and A-8 transported 2 patients all to Christiana ER. The scene was placed under control at 20:02 and all fire department units were clear by 20:13.

5/26/06 - Rollover Crash Injures 2

On May 26th at 20:01 Hrs, Aetna. along with Medic 6, was dispatched for a MVC with rollover in the area of 1325 Old Baltimore Pike. Ambulances A-7, A-9 and Engine 7-4 all made the response. A-7 and Medic 6 were first to arrive at 20:09. They found a single vehicle crash with a car off the road and on its' roof. Both occupants were injured and required transport to the hospital. Crews from both ambulances and the engine packaged both patients for transport. Medic 6 checked both patients and determined that both of them did not require ALS intervention. A-7 and A-9 transported 1 patient each to Christiana ER. Assistant Chief 7-8B placed the scene under control at 20:15. Al fire department units were clear the scene by 20:38, with the scene being turned over to Delaware State Police.

 

 

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5/24/06 - House Fire Behind Station 9

Just before midnight on May 24th Station 9 received a call from Fire Board advising that the house behind the station was on fire. Members that were in the station went out on to Delaware Avenue to investigate and found fire showing from that house. The members went back into the station and advised Fire Board to make this a working alarm dispatch. At 00:00 Aetna, along with Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12), Mill Creek Fire Company (2-21), Cranston Heights Fire Company (14), Hockessin Fire Company (19), Meidc 3, and University of Delaware Ambulance, was dispatched for the working house fire at 116 East Delaware Avenue. The members that had been at station 9 staffed Engine 9-5 and layed a 5" supply line from a hydrant on the corner of Academy Street and Delaware Avenue. On the arrival of 9-5 the 2 1/2 story house had fire showing from the first and second floors. 9-5's crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service and began advancing into the first floor. Engine 8-2 was next to arrive, and that crew advanced a second 1 3/4" hand line into the structure. Also at this point Deputy 8 took command. Ladder 9 and Squrt 7 were the next 2 units on scene. Ladder 9's crew laddered the structure and then went to the roof to ventilate. Squrt 7's crew began protecting the exposure building, which was Station 9. As additional crews arrived they assisted with supression efforts. A total of 4 1 3/4" hand lines and 1 booster line were utilized in order to extinguish the fire. The house suffered heavy fire damage throughout the entire structure. Station 9 did receive some minor exterior damage due to the radiant heat. Deputy 8 placed the scene under control at 01:29 with all units working. All crews assisted with overhaul, and once that was completed they assisted with placing units back in service. All units were clear by 02:41 and the scene was turned over to the State Fire Marshal.

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5/20/06 - Car vs. Tractor Trailer = 2 Trauma Alerts

On May 20th at 01:46 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a MVC with injuries at the intersection of Glasgow Avenue and Pulaski Highway (Route 40). Ambulances A-7 and A-9 along with Engine 7-4 made the response. While units were responding they were advised that there was possibly an unconscious subject, so Medic 6 was being added to the response. Units arrived to find a car that had struck a parked tractor trailer. The impact had caused major damage to the passenger side front end of the car. The car had 2 occupants, and both were made trauma alerts by Medic 6. Once both patients were packaged, they were transported to Christiana ER by A-7 and A-9 with 1 member of Medic 6 on each unit. 7-4 placed the scene under control at 02:23, and all untis were clear by 02:43.

 

 

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5/16/06 - Rollover Crash Injures 2

On May 16th at 04:46 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 3, was dispatched for a MVC with a rollover at the intersection of Paper Mill Road and Polly Drummond Hill Road. Ambulance A-7 and Medic 3 were first to arrive at 04:56. They found a 2 vehicle head-on crash with a pickup truck on its' roof. The drivers of both vehicles were injured and required treatment. Engine 9-5 was next to arrive and the crew assisted the on scene EMS units with patient care. A second BLS unit was also requested, which brought Ambulance A-9 to the scene. The first patient was packaged and transported to Christiana ER by A-7 with 1 member of Medic 3. Once A-9 arrived, the second patient was loaded and transported to Christiana ER with the second member of Medic 3. Once all patients had been transported, 9-5's crew handled clearing the roadway of debris. 9-5 placed the scene under control at 05:30, and all units were clear by 05:39.

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5/14/06 - 2nd Fire of the Week in Elkton

On May 14th at 07:11 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an engine to assist Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14) on a house fire at 45 Chestnut Drive. Engine 9-5 made the response and was advised that this would be a working fire. 9-5 was the first engine to arrive at 07:17, with the report of fire in a 2nd floor rear bedroom. 9-5's crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service and advanced it to the fire floor. At the same time the next in engine layed a 4" supply line into 9-5. Once on the 2nd floor the hose team advanced to the room of origin and made quick work of the fire. Once the fire was knocked down, interior crews checked for extension and performed overhaul. 9-5 remained on scene until being released at 08:00.

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5/12/06 - Bicyclist Struck Results in Fatality

On May 12th at 06:47 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 6, was dispatched to an MVC with a bicyclist struck at the intersection of Old Baltimore Pike and Albe Drive. Ambulances A-7 and A-9 along with Engine 9-5 made the response. Units arrived at 06:56 to find a bicyclist had collided with a pickup truck. The bicyclist had sustained severe head and lower extremity injuries. He was transported to Christiana ER by A-9 and Medic 6 as a trauma code. Unfortunately the patient succumbed to his injuries a short time later at the hospital. 9-5 placed the scene under control at 07:03 and all units were clear by 07:37.

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5/11/06 - Ladder Company Assist Elkton on Building Fire

On May 11th at 05:32 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a ladder company to assist Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14) on a working building fire. Ladder 9 and Squrt made the response, with the ladder arriving at 05:48 and the Squrt 2 minutes later. Units were on scene with fire on the 4th floor and roof of a 4 story cork manufacturing plant. Command had master streams from Squrt 3-1-4 and Tower 4-6-1 (Northeast) make the initial knock down due to concerns of possible dust explosions. Assistant Chief 9-8B was placed in charge of operations by Chief 13. Once the building was deemed safe to enter 9-8B sent crews from Ladder 9, Squrt 7, and Cecil County up to the 4th floor. A hi rise pack was placed in service off of a 3" supply line at this point. Once interior crews made the 4th floor they completed extinguishment and performed overhaul. Aetna crews were clear by 07:47.

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5/10/06 - MVC with Fly Out

On May 10th at 15:47 Hrs, Aetna, along with Medic 9 and Helo Trooper 4, was dispatched for a serious MVC with entrapment on Paper Mill Road at Stage Road. Ambulances A-9 and B-9, Engine 9-5, and Rescue 8 all made the response. Ambulance A-9 was first to arrive at 15:53, finding a 2 vehicle crash with 1 car off the road and into a ditch. A-9's crew found there to be a total of 3 injuries and no entrapment. A 3rd BLS unit was requested, which brought Ambulance UD-1 (University of Delaware) to the scene. The occupant of the car in the ditch had sustained a serious head injury and was the priority patient. The decision was made that this patient would be flown to the ER and Trooper 4 was told to land nearby. A-9 and Medic 9 packaged the patient and transported her to the landing zone. She was flown to Christiana ER as a trauma alert. The other 2 patients from the 2nd vehicle were BLS only. Both were transported to Christiana ER by B-9 and UD-1. The scene was placed under control at 16:24 and all units were clear by 16:34.

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5/9/06 - Harmony Road Entrapment

On May 9th at 12:41 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a MVC with injuries at Capitol Trail and Harmony Road. Ambulance A-9 was clearing Christiana ER and responded immediately. A-9 arrived at 12:45 and found the crash to be on Harmony Road about 1/4 of a mile from Capitol Trail. A-9's crew found a head on crash between a small car and a large SUV. The driver of the car was found to be unconscious and heavily trapped. A-9 advised Fire Board of the entrapment, and ALS (Medic 3) was added to the call. By this time Ambulance B-9, Rescue 8, and Engine 9-5 were already responding. The driver of the SUV was found to only be suffering minor injuries. He was advised by A-9's crew to stay in his vehicle while A-9's crew began providing patient care to the priority patient. Rescue 8 arrived at 12:46, and the crew began extrication. Once the car was stabilized, Rescue 8 placed their hydraulic tools in service. The subjects' lower extremities were trapped by the dashboard, and they were seriously injured. The extrication process required the crews from Rescue 8 and 9-5 to remove the cars' doors, roof, and displace the dashboard. Extrication was completed at 13:08. The patient was placed in B-9 and was transported to Christiana ER with Medic 3 as a trauma code. Once the priority patient was extricated, crews were able to remove the driver of the SUV. Although he was not seriously injured, removal of the SUV's driver door was required. Once the door was removed the patient was packaged and transported to Christiana ER by A-9. The scene was placed under control at 13:17. Rescue 8 and 9-5 remained on scene until clearing at 13:59. The scene was turned over to Delaware State Police for investigation, and DELDOT handled closing the road.

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5/2/06 - Van Fire Next to Gas Pumps

On May 2nd at 12:36 Hrs, Station 9 was alerted by Red Phone for an automobile fire at the Exxon gas station at 263 East Chestnut Hill Road. As Engine 9-3 went responding New Castle County Police Command 2 went on scene advising that the vehicle was involved and next to the gas pumps. Just prior to 9-3's arrival, Command 2 reccomended that the response be upgraded to a full structure assignment. This added Christiana (3-6-12) and Mill Creek (2- 21) fire companies to the response. 9-3 layed a 5" supply line from a hydrant on East Chestnut Hill Road. The crew found a mini-van with an engine compartment fire. 9-3's officer (Captain 9) was also advised that the gas pump had been shut off. 9-3's crew placed the booster line in service and made quick work of the fire. There was no fire damage done to the structure at all. Captain 9 placed the scene under control at 12:51 with the units that were on scene (9-3, Engine 9-5, Squrt 7, Ambulance A-8, and Engine 3- 5). Units completed extinguishment, overhaul, and placing 9-3 back in service, and were all clear the scene by 13:08.

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5/1/06 - Apartment Fire at Admirals Club

On May 1st at 15:18 Hrs, Aetna, along with Mill Creek (2-21) and Cranston Heights (14) Fire Companies, was dispatched for a building fire at 3 Fairway Road in the Admirals Club Apartments. Engine 9-5 and Ladder 9 went responding within 3 minutes. While the units were responding Deputy 7 went on location at 15:23 and reported smoke showing. This added Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12), Minquas Fire Company (23), Ambulance B-14, and New Castle County Paramedics to the response. 9-5 arrived at 15:26 and layed a 5" supply line from the hydrant in front of building 8. When 9-5 and Ladder 9 pulled up to the building, fire was now evident from a 2nd floor apartment with fire spreading up towards the 3rd floor and soffit. 9-5's crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service and advanced it into the fire apartment. Ladder 9's crew went to the roof to ventilate. As additional resources arrived an additional 1 3/4" line was placed in service and was advanced to the 3rd floor. Searches of the fire building and the attached exposure building were also made. The initial attack crew was able to make quick work of the fire on the 2nd floor. Crews on the 3rd floor opened up the ceiling in the apartment above the fire and in the hallway in order to check for extension. Crews were able to contain the fire before it got into the attic. Deputy 7 placed the scene under control at 15:58. All units that were on scene assisted with salvage and overhaul operations as well as placing apparatus back in service. The scene was turned over to the State Fire Marshal and all units were clear by 18:29.

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4/29/06 - Assist on 2 Alarm Building Fire

On April 29th at 14:31 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a Ladder Company to assist Christiana Fire Company (3-6-12) on a building fire at 24 Cheswold Boulevard. While units were responding, the report of numerous phone calls being recieved was given. This upgraded the alarm to a working fire dispatch. Deputy 6 arrived and reported fire showing from the 3rd floor of a 3 story apartment building. A short time later the 2nd alarm was struck. Ladder 9 made the response, and on arrival was given the order to set up for possible defensive operations. Ladder 9's crew split with 1/2 of the crew setting up the ladder pipe, and the other 1/2 being sent to the 3rd floor for suppression. Interior and roof crews were able to make a good attack on the fire, and master streams were not needed. Ambulance A-8 also made the response and assisted with Rehab operations. Crews operated on scene until being released at 16:05.

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4/27/06 - South Chapel Street Rollover

On April 27th at 17:13 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for a MVC with a rollover at South Chapel Street and Blue Hen Drive. Ambulances A-8 and A-9 responded along with Ladder 9 that was already on the road. Units arrived to find a 2 vehicle crash involving a car and a SUV that was now on its' roof. A quick check by the EMS crews found the occupants of the SUV had already exited the vehicle. A-8's crew tended to the driver of the car while A-9's crew checked on the driver of the SUV. The driver of the car was packaged and transported to Christiana ER by A-8. The driver of the SUV ended up refusing medical treatment. Ladder 9 placed the situation under control at 17:30 and the scene was turned over to DSP.

 

 

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4/23/06 - Multi Alarm Building Fire

On April 23rd at 04:00 Hrs, Aetna, along with Christiana Fire Company (3- 6-12) and Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14), was dispatched for a building fire at 33 Winterhaven Drive in the Chelsea on the Square apartment complex. Engine 9-5, Ambulance A-8, and Engine 3-5 were first to respond. 9-5 arrived at 04:13 reporting smoke showing and layed a 5" supply line from the closest hydrant. Crews from 9-5 and 3-5 pulled a 1 3/4" hand line and advanced it into the building. The fire was found to be in a first floor apartment on the B/C corner. At the same time 9-5's officer (9 Captain 1) did a walk around of the structure. He found fire venting from the first floor windows and extending up to the 2nd and 3rd floors. At this point with the fire advancing rapidly and limited manpower on scene a 2nd alarm was requested. Engine 8-2 was next to arrive and they brought a 5" supply line in from a 2nd hydrant. As additional resources arrived more hand lines were advanced into the building and primary searches were conducted. All searches of the fire building turned up with negative results. Also by this time Deputy 8 had assumed command. Conditions inside began to deteriorate rapidly and eventually the 2nd floor collapsed onto the 1st floor at the B/C corner. Due to the collapse, a building evacuation order was given. An exterior attack was done with several hand lines until the building was deemed safe to re- enter. Once re-entry was allowed crews went back inside in order to attack the fire. By this time the fire had extended to the 3rd floor and was making its way into the attic. Once the fire got into the attic it spread quickly across the building. The roof began collapsing and a 2nd building evacuation was ordered. The fire now had a hold of the 3rd floor and attic. An exterior attack was again conducted. Several hand lines and master streams were placed in service in order to extinguish the fire. Crews were able to enter the exposure building, building 34, in order to check for extension and keep the fire from spreading there. While the exterior attack was conducted, crews in building 34 opened up the roof and mansard in order to make sure no fire spread occurred. Unfortunately during this time water pressure problems were also experienced. A call to the water company was made, but the problem was never truly rectified. Crews operated for over 4 hours before the fire was placed under control at 08:28. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews were able to re-enter the building in order to hit hot spots. In all a total of 17 fire companies operated at the scene for supression and relief purposes. All fire department units were clear shortly after 13:00 with the scene being turned over to the state fire marshal.

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4/21/06 - Car Fire Extends to House

On April 21st at 01:40 Hrs, Aetna was dispatched for an automobile fire with exposure to a structure. Deputy 8 was first to arrive, and he found a car fully involved in the driveway with fire spreading to a house. Deputy 8 advised fire showing, which upgraded the alarm. The upgrade added Christiana (3-6-12), Mill Creek (2-21), and Hockessin (19) fire companies to the response. Engine 7-4 arrived at 01:49 and the crew placed a 1 3/4" hand line in service. At this point fire had spread across the front of the house from the driveway almost to the front door. Once the hand line was charged, the crew was able to make quick work of the fire that involved the house. The crew then went to the car and made a quick knock down on the majority of the fire. Engine 9-5 was next to arrive, and they layed a 5" supply line to 7-4. 9-5's crew was sent to the interior, and their crew along with 7-4's began checking for fire extension into the structure. As additional crews arrived the complete extinguishment of the car was made. Overhaul was performed on the exterior and interior of the house, with the majority of the damage being contained to the siding and front windows. Deputy 8 placed the scene under control at 02:16. 1 occupant of the house was injured while exiting the structure. He was treated at the scene by Ambulance A-8, but he did not require transport to the hospital. Mutual aid units were released as soon as possibile and Aetna units stood by and assisted the Fire Marshal. All units were clear the scene by 03:24.

Slow Couple of Weeks Bring a Few Serious Calls

Over the past couple of weeks while EMS wise Aetna has remained busy, serious fire and rescue incidents have been almost non-existant. There have been a few responses that were significant. On March 25th at 04:15 Aetna and County Paramedics responded to a MVC with a subject trapped at the intersection of Polly Drummond Hill Road and Linden Hill Road. Crews from Ambulances A-7, A-9, Rescue 8, Engine 7-4, and Squrt 7 found a 2 vehicle crash with 1 driver trapped. Crews utilized rescue tools to remove the driver door, roof, and roll the dash. The subject was extricated in 32 minutes. A total of 2 patients were transported to Christiana ER fom this incident. On April 5th at 08:31 Aetna was dispatched to assist Singerly Fire Company of Elkton (Cecil County 3-13-14) on a working house fire at 21 Kist Road. Engine 9-5 responded and upon their arrival the crew was sent to assist with extinguishment. The crew operated inside with Elkton crews until evacuation orders were given. 9-5's crew then assisted with exterior extinguishment until it was determined safe to re-enter the structure. 9-5 operated on scene for almost 2 hours before being released. On April 7th at 12:18 Aetna and County Paramedics were dispatched for a pedestrian struck by train at the North College Avenue Rail Road crossing. Ambulances A-8, B-9, Rescue 8, and Engine 9-5 all made the response. When crews arrived they were directed to the victim that was several hundred feet down the tracks. The victim was found underneath the train and he was an obvious D.O.A. Aetna crews stood by until Paramedics arrived and pronounced the victim. All units cleared and the scene was turned over to Newark Police. On April 8th at 23:43 Aetna and County Paramedics were dispatched to 59 Matthews Road for a MVC with vehicle into the structure and subject trapped. First arriving Ambulance A-8 found the driver of a car trapped and in respiratory arrest. Upon further investigation it was found that the subject had been shot prior to the crash. Crews from Engine 9-5 and Rescue 8 arrived and handled extrication of the subject. He was transported to Christiana ER as a trauma arrest, and he was pronounced D.O.A. prior to arriving there. With the exception of Rescue 8, units that were on scene cleared rather quickly. Rescue 8 stood by in order to provide lighting for the New Castle County Police investigation. Finally on the morning of April 9th at 04:53 Aetna along with Christiana (3-6- 12), Mill Creek (2-21), and Hockessin (19) Fire Companies, was dispatched for a house fire at 13 East Cleveland Avenue. First arriving Ambulance A-9 reported smoke showing from the basement. Engine 9-5 arrived shortly after them and a 5" supply line was established. A 1 3/4" hand line was placed in service and crews entered the basement. A small fire was found and it was quickly extinguished. Additional units on scene handled search and ventilation duties. This fire was placed under control at 05:12 and all units were clear just after 6 A.M.