OFPD hosts parent seminar on Heroin and Substance abuse Wed July 18

OFPD hosts parent seminar on Heroin and Substance abuse Wed July 18

The Orland Fire Protection District is hosting a program Wednesday July 18 at 7 pm to help parents recognize challenges facing their children related to drug abuse and other distractions while driving such as texting.

The program, called “In the Blink of an Eye,” will be hosted by OFPD Battalion Chief Michael Schofield and will feature two short but impactful videos and presentations from people who lost loved ones to drug abuse including alcohol and heroin.

Schofield said that while many parents are aware of problems involving alcohol abuse and driving while intoxicated, many suburbanites are surprised to learn that heroin use is increasing in middle class communities including those in the Southwest Suburbs.

“The program is designed to help parents understand that one seemingly innocent choice can dramatically change a child’s life and that change is instant and overwhelming,” Schofield said.

“We address alcohol abuse by teenagers, DUIs and also Heroin use, which is on the rise.”

Schofield said the program, which will be held at the Orland Fire Protection District’s headquarters at 9790 W. 151^st Street in the District’s Board room, will feature two short but powerful videos on the impact that drugs and alcohol can have on a young life.

One involves texting and driving and another involves drinking while driving.

“They are very graphic and realistic,” Schofield said. “We want parents to recognize how serious these issues are. People talk about the problem but many do so in the context of it not impacting their lives. It’s something they read in a newspaper about someone else. We want them to know these tragedies can impact their lives directly.”

Speakers and presenters include Tammy O’Brien, who works with the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM).

O’Brien’s son was a police officer who was drinking and driving and then got into an accident resulting the death of two Orland students. O’Brien will discuss how the accident certainly cost the lives of two young kids but also how it impacted her son, who had career dreams and ambitions that were destroyed by that one moment in time. Her son’s mistake cost two lives and changed his life forever.

Schofield said they will also play a 911 audio tape involving an heroin overdose from a victim in Orland Park.

Another speaker is a graduate from Lockport High school whose friend died of an Heroin overdose. The boy’s father, Brian Kirk, will also discuss his son who was only a few weeks away from high school graduation at the time of his death.

At the end of the presentations, the speakers and Fire District officials will engage the parents in an open discussion.

Schofield said that the misconceptions about heroin use need to be shattered.

“We hope to get parents to attend. It is a very powerful message. There is no stereotype for a heroin addict,” Schofield said.

“We want to make parents aware that they can make a difference in the lives of their children. It’s not too late. The children and parents need to recognize the consequences of their mistakes. Bad things do happen to good kids. Heroin is a real problem in the suburbs. It’s impacting kids with straight As. There is no stereotype for a heroin addict.”

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Orland Fire Protection District supervises emergency trainings

Orland Fire Protection District supervises emergency trainings

The Orland Fire Protection District completed a three-day Train the Trainer program that was funded through a $302,400 Federal grant received earlier this year to support the district’s MABAS needs.

MABAS is the “Mutual Aid Box Alarm System” which networks the emergency response system for hundreds of emergency services.

The training program, held June 25-27 at the OFPD Training Center at 163^rd and 108^th Avenue, included 21 fire professionals including 12 from the MABAS Divisions, Bloomington, Countryside and Orland who were certified to provide instructions in the Blue Card Hazard Zone Management System.

These instructors, said organizer Fire Lt. David Piper “will assist in facilitating certifying the over 400 officers and firefighters covered in the grant. They will go out and train others.”

The goal, Piper explained, is to facilitate “inter-operability and efficiency” among participating emergency service agencies. The 400 officers are responsible for managing emergency responses of more than 1,500 firefighters serving more than 750,000 people in Chicagoland’s south and southwest suburbs.

Piper said that the trainees were led through a series of instructions on hi-tech computer programs and training simulators that present emergency challenges to help the firefighters respond more effectively and in coordination with others.

“Everyone has to be trained in these techniques and practices to make them work,” Piper said.

Fire Chief Ken Brucki said that in order to maintain and provide the highest levels of emergency response services, the Orland Fire Protection District is committed to insuring all of its employees and partners in neighboring districts have the most effective training.

“Our firefighters are constantly being trained in the newest and most effective techniques to respond to emergencies and to improve the efficiencies of coordinated responses,” Brucki said.

“Lt. Piper supervised an important training for those who depend on our ability to respond to emergencies.”

July 4th Celebrations proceed without a hitch

July 4^th Celebrations proceed without a hitch

As a result of extensive preparations and staffing by the Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD), both of the two major July 4^th celebrations took place without any major problems.

There were no medical responses required due to fireworks although there were three minor brush fires that were contained quickly contained. It is not unusual for the fireworks to cause small brush fires during the shows in fields in the region where the fireworks are launched and where embers may fall.

Here’s an overview of Independence Day responses for Orland Hills and Orland Park.

Orland Hills, June 30

Once again a great start to the National Holiday was had by all at the Orland Hills Party in the Park.  

One of the highlights of the event was the fantastic fireworks show that was staged and launched on Saturday Evening at 9:30p.m.  

The fireworks event was the culmination of a coordinated effort, which was started about a month prior to the show.  Individuals from the Parks and Recreation Department, Mad Bomber Fireworks Company, Orland Hills Police Department, the Village Manager, the Mayor’s Office and the Orland Fire Protection District met.  Prior to the June 30^th event, there were several inspections done by the Orland Fire Prevention Bureau. 

This was to assess the excessively dry conditions and subsequently plan to stage additional pieces of fire apparatus (Ladder Truck, Engine, and specially equipped Wildland Fire Fighting Rig) in the neighborhoods. 

This strategy was to be ready and head off the potential of fire from fireworks fallout during these unseasonably and excessively dry conditions.  Thankfully the “in place” strategy did not have to be implemented but it was ready.   

The event went off on Saturday night with nothing but cheers from the huge crowd that had gathered for the weekend event.  It was a great time, safely enjoyed by all due to the teamwork of those mentioned above. 

These types of planning processes have existed for a long time, with a great safety record.  Through this coordinated effort everyone has enjoyed a safe and glorious Independence Holiday each year.  The Orland Fire District is looking forward to next year for another successful 4^th of July Memorial celebration at the Party in the Park.  Thank you.

-      Patrick G. Collier Orland Fire District Inspector #33

Orland Park, July 4

In an effort to help ensure the safety of the audience at fireworks displays within the district, the Orland Fire District utilizes a proven process which includes: permitting, preplanning, coordinating with other taxing bodies, site inspections and emergency vehicle stand-by for all such events. 

The process for this year’s Fourth of July fireworks display at Centennial Park began in early June with the permitting portion of the process.  The fireworks permit application was reviewed by the Fire Prevention Bureau to ensure that the proper licensing requirements were being met, the proper procedures for launching the fireworks were being utilized, the safety/exclusion zone around the launch site was of the appropriate size and that all state and local codes/ordinances regarding fireworks displays were being adhered to.

The inspection portion of the process began the week before the show, with an inspection of the site and the immediate area around the site.  Due to the drought conditions that we are experiencing this year, it was determined that the fireworks site would have to be watered down prior to the show to prevent small brush fires from starting; this was accomplished by a coordinated effort between the Orland Fire District and the Orland Parks and Recreation Department. 

Early in the afternoon of July 4^th, a Fire Inspector met with the lead pyrotechnician from Melrose Pyrotechnics at the Centennial Park site, to discuss how the show was going to be set up and launched, the safety procedures that were going to be followed and an inspection was performed on the racks and tubes that were going to be used in the show. 

Four hours prior to the start of the fireworks display, another inspection of the site was conducted by the Fire Prevention Bureau to ensure that the launch site/exclusion zone was secure, that the fireworks were set up per the approved plan, that there were no hazards in the launch area, emergency procedures were reviewed and radio communications were established between the lead pyrotechnician and the Fire District personnel that were standing by in/around the park during the show. 

Upon the completion of the fireworks display, a final inspection was made by the Fire Prevention bureau to ensure that the site had been cleared of any misfired fireworks and that there were no spot fires and/or other hazards in the area.  Once this inspection had been completed, the site was deemed safe and the fire equipment that was standing by in/around the park was released to return to their stations.

This year’s fireworks display at Centennial Park went very smoothly and safely due to the combined effort of the Village of Orland Park, the Orland Fire District and Melrose Pyrotechnics.  This cooperation, coupled with diligence and attention to safety led to a very enjoyable and safe experience for the audience.

-      OFPD Fire Chief Ken Brucki

Extra precautions set for Orland Fireworks display

Statement from OFPD Fire Chief Ken Brucki on “extra preparations” for fireworks celebrations:

The Orland Fire Protection District is taking extra precautions for fireworks displays, including tonight’s show in Orland Park. OFPD firefighters have conducted extensive assessments of dry conditions in the Orland region for tonight’s fireworks display.

“This preparation began last week and was used to prepare for the Fire Works display in Orland Hills on Saturday night. In addition to assessing the excessively dry conditions of the Orland region, the Orland Fire Protection District will stage additional pieces of fire equipment such as Ladder Truck, Engine, and specially equipped Wildland Fire Fighting Rig in Orland neighborhoods. This strategic planning is intended to enhance preparation in the event of any potential fires caused by the fireworks displays during this unseasonably and excessively dry conditions,” said Orland Fire Protection District Chief Ken Brucki said. 

“I also again caution residents to refrain from using any fireworks. Most fireworks are illegal. But almost all of the fireworks are dangerous, especially in the excessively dry conditions we are facing. It’s not worth the risk. Let the professionals handle the fireworks and enjoy the holiday celebration with confidence and safety.”

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Statement on Dean Milenkovic arrest:

Statement on Dean Milenkovic arrest:

“The Orland Fire Protection District was made aware of an investigation by an out-of-state police agency regarding harmful material involving a minor via the internet, and the arrest of an employee that took place Wednesday morning,” OFPD Chief Ken Brucki said.

“We are working with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office through the Orland Park Police Department to identify all the facts. Dean Milenkovic has been placed on administrative leave with pay pending the investigation. I am most concerned about the integrity of the Fire District and all of our employees to ensure that the public continues to have complete confidence in our ability to provide the emergency services they expect.”

Brucki has made all of the district’s employees aware of the situation and is providing counseling to any employees distressed by this unfortunate news.

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Fire guts basement of home on 147th and West Avenue

Fire guts basement of home on 147^th and West Avenue

Home fire, 11:52 am; Wednesday June 27, 2012

14712 West Ave

(Chief Ken Brucki and Battalion Chief Nick Cinquepalmi on scene)

Battalion Chief Nick Cinquepalmi  reported the call came in at 11:52 am. There was a heavy amount of smoke and fire in the basement of the home when firefighters arrived.

The homeowner was very concerned because there were six pets in the home, five cats and one bird. Unfortunately, only two of the cats could be rescued from the fire. The homeowner was not injured.

The fire, a  Below grade (ground level), basement fire, was put under control within 15 minutes and the department cleared the home of danger within one hour of responding.

Firefighters reported there was a tremendous amount of obstacles in the corridors of the home that made it hard for firefighters to navigate inside the property.

“Our firefighters responded quickly and we were able to control the fire and cause of the heavy smoke in the home. Sadly, the fire claimed some of the homeowners pets,” Brucki said.

Firefighters from neighboring communities also responded to the fire as is traditional with communities providing support and backup.

(Photos courtesy Orland Fire Protection District)

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Fire District Recognizes four in Lake Sedgewick rescue

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                            Ray Hanania

June 27, 2012                                                                                     rayhanania / comcast.net

Fire District Recognizes four in Lake Sedgewick rescue

OFPD, Orland Park, IL., – Four civilians were honored Tuesday by the Orland Fire Protection District Board for quick action that helped save the life on May 29 at Lake Sedgewick of a 33 year old man who officials said would “surely have drowned.”

Albert Kulicz, 21, of Bridgeview, and a friend, McKenzie Smith, 16, jumped into the water when the man started yelling for help. Friends on shore quickly called 911 for emergency assistance.

Three of Smith’s friends, also students from Carl Sandburg High school in Orland Park, Andrea Dunn, 16, and Taylor Calzaretta, 17, and Meghan Carmody, helped as Kulicz and Smith dragged the naked man from the waters onto the shore.

“All of these young men and women went above and beyond to help a person in need. Not only did they call 911, as they should, but they also immediately helped by giving the victim resuscitation support,” said OFPD Fire Chief Ken Brucki in presenting the recipients with the OFPD Citizens Life Saving Award.

“We want to thank each and every one of you for what you did. It was brave and you all did a good job.”

Four of the five rescuers were introduced to the board by OFPD Lt. Mark Duke, who said that they had acted properly and professionally, “And they did what needed to be done without any special skills or training.”

Smith was unable to attend the presentation at the Fire Board meeting but Kulicz, Dunn, Calzaretta and Carmody were all presented with Life Saving Certificates.

“It is heartwarming to know that there are individuals out there who will come to the assistance of people who are in need and in dangerous circumstances,” said OFPD Board President Jim Hickey.

The incident occurred on May 29 along Lake Sedgewick’s southern shores. Lake Sedgewick is a 95 acre lake which includes a boat ramp, boardwalk, outdoor amphitheater, gazebo, council ring, nature trails, and hiking paths.

PHOTO CAPTION: From left OFPD Board President Jim Hickey, Trustee Chris Evoy, Chief Ken Brucki, Albert Kulicz, Taylor Calzaretta, Meghan Carmody, Andrea Dunn, and Trustees Glenn Michalek, Marty McGill and Blair Rhode. Photo courtesy of Battalion Chief Dan Smith.

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