Serving Central Ohio’s Public Safety Forces since 1947
Photo by T.Knowles
Front row (L-R) Jerry Keaton, Chris Maupin, John Kuczek, Mory Fuhrmann, Ryan Karr, Brett Goldstein, Tom Knowles, Josh Meyer.
Standing (L-R): Joe O'Brien, J. J. Corcella, Pam Murphy, Greg Northrop, Life Member David Vaughn, Brett Barber, President Bob
Hess, Jim Henderson, Lisa Phillips, Pete Fricke, Skip Clegg. Not pictured: Paul Adams, Dick Evans, Josh Gibson, Sonny Lewis, Joe
Penty, Kevin Shop, Tom Swisher – Photo by S.Lewis
2016 Annual Report
2
Contents
Message from the Outgoing President ......................................................................................................... 4
Message from the Incoming President ......................................................................................................... 5
Mission Statement ........................................................................................................................................ 6
Meetings ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Synopsis ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Month by Month Activity.............................................................................................................................. 7
January ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
February .................................................................................................................................................... 8
March ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
April ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
May ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
June ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
July .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
August ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
September............................................................................................................................................... 13
October ................................................................................................................................................... 14
November ............................................................................................................................................... 14
December ................................................................................................................................................ 15
Financial Performance ................................................................................................................................ 15
Benefactor Acknowledgments .................................................................................................................... 17
Partnerships & Alliances ............................................................................................................................. 17
2016 Firefighter Awards.............................................................................................................................. 18
Membership ................................................................................................................................................ 22
Training ....................................................................................................................................................... 22
Charitable Support ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Other Noteworthy Items............................................................................................................................. 22
Vital Statistics .............................................................................................................................................. 25
Executive Board for 2017 ............................................................................................................................ 26
Cover Photo Credits .................................................................................................................................... 26
Actions Shots............................................................................................................................................... 26
2016 Annual Report
3
Message from the Outgoing President
2016 proved to be another busy year for Box 15. We have enjoyed a large number of
new members joining the club this past year. Our continued participation in public
relations and scheduled training events has helped them prepare to function on
emergency scenes. We are also proud to have made improvements in our fleet and
equipment during 2016. Both of these factors enable us to be better able to provide
services to multiple events in Central Ohio at the same time. I wish to thank the
membership of Box 15 for the confidence they had in me by allowing me to serve two
terms as Club President and I am looking forward to remaining an active member of
Box 15 in the coming years.
Bob Hess
Box 15 Past President
2016 Annual Report
4
Message from the Incoming President
Let me begin by saying “Thank You” to outgoing President Robert Hess. During the past
two years, Box 15 has continued to grow and provide a high level of service to the
firefighting community. Bob led us through some trying times and I can say that we’re
better off for his leadership.
Man, how time flies. Box 15 turns 70 this year! What started out being a group of
businessmen bringing lemonade in the summer and hot coffee in the winter during
large fires has seen quite a transformation over the decades. In the mid-80’s, we
changed and upgraded our focus to the more comprehensive idea of Firefighter
Rehab. Since then, we’ve continued to upgrade and expand our service scope to
include heaters and tents, misting and conventional fans, tents and chairs, rehab
towels, anti-cancer wipes and more. What we serve has also been expanded to
include hot tea and hot chocolate in addition to coffee. We also moved from cups of
“bulk” water to bottled water. Adding Gatorade and Sqwincher as well as granola bars
helps with electrolyte balancing and nutrition. When we began, members brought 2gallon jugs in their personal vehicles, parked a few blocks away and walked up to the
incident. With three fully stocked response vehicles, we can provide a much higher
level of service. Adding “immediate response” during periods of extreme weather has
also improved our level of service.
Box 15 covers Franklin County and extends service into Fairfield and Delaware counties;
and we now have other groups that cover Pickaway, Madison, Union, Ross, Hocking,
Athens and Licking Counties. Through the Ohio Association for Rehab Support, we’ve
been promoting firefighter rehab throughout the state. Thus far, we’ve gotten
additional groups organized in Stark and Athens counties.
As we progress through 2017, be assured that we intend to be there whenever and
wherever we’re needed. We look forward to serving you – the men and women in
Public Safety.
In your Service,
Brett Barber
Box 15 President
2016 Annual Report
5
Mission Statement
The Box 15 Club, Inc. is dedicated to providing Canteen and Firefighter
Rehab Services, and to support, as best we can, in every practical way,
the work of our “first line of defense against the ravages of fire” - the
men and women of the fire service.
Meetings
Box 15 meets on the last Tuesday of every month except December. Our meetings are held at
various locations, mostly area fire stations. Meeting times are generally at 7:00 PM (19:00
hours); however, certain meetings have associated activities and begin at 6:00 PM. Information
about meeting dates, times and locations can be requested by emailing [email protected].
Synopsis
As is often the case, 2016 proved to be quite a year for Box 15; full of highs and lows, cold
winter nights and hot summer days, successful fundraisers, fleet changes, and even local
community recognition.
We saw seven nights of cold weather standby, 18 days of hot weather standby, fires ranging
from single alarm to 4-alarm status, explosions, a disaster drill, two puppies and two funerals.
We replaced an aging vehicle and received tons (literally) of donated sports drink.
Throughout the year, we provided canteen and rehab services for several days of training,
attended numerous civic events and provided support services for the American Red Cross’s
door-to-door smoke alarm & neighborhood outreach campaign.
Financially, we remained in good shape, ending with a net gain for the year, even with the
purchase of a new vehicle. Membership remained strong, adding several new members during
the year.
2016 Annual Report
6
Month by Month Activity
January
The year started out pretty typical, runwise. In January, we responded to nine
fires, pulled two shifts of cold (sub-zero
degrees) weather standby and participated
at “First Responders Night” with the
International Firefighters Cancer
Foundation. Unfortunately, two fires, only
three days apart, were double fatality
incidents.
The first run of 2016 occurred on January
2nd. It was followed by back-to-back runs
on January 11th. These fires were on
adjacent properties (not related, though).
Extra Company Fire in a snow storm – Photo by B.Hess
On January 17th, with wind chills at -20°F,
we responded out to Canal Winchester for a fire; and the following day, at the end of a cold
weather standby, Rehab 1 went to the first of the two fatal fires on the west side of Columbus.
Overnight, on January 21st, we were called out to the second fatal fire – an apartment building
near Mt. Carmel West Hospital. Two children perished in that blaze. Our final fire in January
was on the 31st, again on the west side of Columbus. This one was a fully involved
neighborhood church.
Date
Time
#
2-Jan
18:40
700
Schrock Rd.
Street
Columbus
Community
Columbus
Jurisdiction
Working fire
Incident
11-Jan
12:56
3280
E. Seventh Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
11-Jan
15:06
755
Stelzer Rd., Lot #120
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
12-Jan
19:00 - 08:00
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
17-Jan
17:00 - 08:00
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
17-Jan
18-Jan
21:34
299
19:00 - 08:00
Groveport Rd.
Canal Winchester
Madison Twp.
Working fire
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
18-Jan
11:12
30
Brehl Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
21-Jan
01:07
849
W. Town St.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
30-Jan
17:00
555
Borrer Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
31-Jan
04:28
231
S. Grubb St.
Columbus
Columbus
Extra Co. Fire
2016 Annual Report
7
February
In February, we had two
additional cold weather
standbys and five more
fires. A two alarm house
fire in Norwich Township
was followed by five runs
in three days during
another bitter cold stretch
February 13th through the
15th. Two were house fires,
then a 3-story taxpayer, a
hospital fire and a waste oil
Refinery fire on Feb. 14 – Photo courtesy Columbus Fire Station 21
refinery. The rest of the month was quiet.
Date
6-Feb
12-Feb
13-Feb
Time
#
17:05
5898
Street
Heritage Lakes Dr.
Community
Hilliard
Jurisdiction
Norwich Twp.
Incident
2nd Alarm
18:00 - 08:00
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
18:00 - 08:00
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
13-Feb
02:26
387
Lechner Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
13-Feb
23:48
793
W. State St.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
14-Feb
02:36
4001
E. Fifth Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Explosion
14-Feb
07:38
2675
Grasmere Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
15-Feb
21:52
876
Mt. Vernon Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Extra Co Fire
March
March was very quiet with only three fire responses; however, we did participate in the
Columbus St. Patrick’s Day parade, along with several Columbus Fire companies. On the 2nd, we
had back-to-back responses – a 2-alarm fire in an apartment building followed by a fully
involved single family residence. We also provided roving support services for the ongoing
Home Fire Safety Smoke Alarm campaign conducted by the American Red Cross. This was our
eighth time out with the Red Cross and we have three more activities scheduled in the
upcoming months.
Date
Time
#
2-Mar
13:56
5900
Chatford Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
2-Mar
18:02
3736
Clearwater Dr.
Madison Twp.
Madison Twp.
Working fire
4-Mar
12:00
Hilltop area
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
2016 Annual Report
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
8
Date
Time
#
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
17-Mar
03:53
5155
N. High St.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
17-Mar
09:00
300
N. Fourth St.
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
April
April ended with Box 15 providing roaming rehab support for a Red Cross Smoke Detector
Outreach event, followed two days later with a response request to an extra company working
fire in Lockbourne that destroyed a building at a semi-trailer yard.
Date
Time
#
10-Apr
04:22
14-16
19-Apr
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
W. California Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
07:00
St. Paul Church
Westerville
Columbus
Police
20-Apr
12:00
Franklinton Area
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
22-Apr
11:41
Canal Road
Lockbourne
Hamilton Twp.
2nd Alarm
6868
May
May was fairly slow, run-wise. The month started out with a working fire on the north side of
town, then ended with back-to-back-to-back events – a 2-alarm fire on the southeast side of
Columbus on the 20th, followed the next day by roaming rehab support for another smoke
detector outreach in Greenfield Township, then a training fire on the 22 nd.
Date
Time
#
9-May
13:39
672
19-May
17:30
20-May
16:42
21-May
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
Chaffin Ridge
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
Franklin Co. Coroner’s office
Columbus
Columbus
Police
Heathcliff Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
09:00
Colonial Estates
Greenfield Twp.
Greenfield Twp.
Red Cross
22-May
09:00
W. Case Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Training
24-May
16:00
St. Paul Church
Westerville
Norwich Twp./Hilliard
Police
25-May
09:00
St. Paul Church
Westerville
Norwich Twp./Hilliard
Police
2030
June
As temperatures started to increase with the
month of June, so did our activity. On June 3rd,
Box 15 was called out for a hazmat incident on
the Ohio State campus. The following day was
a smoke detector outreach event in Clinton
Township, and another on the west side of
Columbus on the 11th. The following day,
Rehab 1 responded to a 2-alarm fire on the far
2016 Annual Report
Arbor Lake Drive 2-alarm fire – Photo by T.Knowles
9
west side. On June 14th, Box 15, along with Box 65, participated in an airplane crash drill at
Rickenbacker International Airport. The month wrapped up with an extra company working fire
in Jefferson Township, a 2-alarm fire on the far southeast side, and the Central Ohio Antique
Fire Apparatus Association Muster at the Ohio Fire Academy.
Date
Time
#
3-Jun
17:48
151
4-Jun
09:00
11-Jun
10:00 - 20:00
11-Jun
08:00
12-Jun
19:19
14-Jun
07:00
20-Jun
19:59
23-Jun
25-Jun
26-Jun
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
W. Woodruff Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Hazmat
Lennox area
Columbus
Clinton Twp.
Red Cross
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
Franklinton area
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
Wedgewood Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
Rickenbacker airport
Columbus
Madison Twp.
Training
1421
Taylor Corners Circle
Blacklick
Jefferson Twp.
Working fire
04:07
4393
Arbor Lake Dr.
Columbus
Madison Twp.
2nd Alarm
08:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
COAFAA
Civic Event
885
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
July
July continued the trend of hot weather and increased activity. The month started with a
response to a storage unit fire on the east side followed by a natural gas leak in Dublin the next
day. On the 9th, Box 15 was again providing roaming rehab support for another Red Cross
smoke detector outreach on the west side. Mid-month brought an extra company working fire
on the outskirts of Westerville. July 21st turned out to be a busy day. With hot weather protocol
(heat index over 100°F) in effect, Rehab 1 started the day at a training fire on the east side;
however, shortly after arriving, a working fire broke out on the west side. The crew responded,
provided rehab support to companies still on-scene, and returned to the training exercise. After
clearing the training event and returning to quarters, the crew responded to a gas leak in
Orange Township in Delaware County. The 25th was another hot weather standby day which
brought with it a response to the far eastside. Rehab 1 initially responded to a working fire on
West 6th Street; however, the apartment fire on the east side quickly escalated to a 2 nd alarm
and the crew diverted to that scene instead. July ended with Berlin Township’s Touch-A-Truck
event. Our misting fan was a big hit given how hot the day was!
Date
Time
#
7-Jul
15:37
3315
Refugee Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
8-Jul
15:00
7727
Inverness Ct.
Dublin
Washington Twp.
Gas Leak
9-Jul
08:00
Franklinton area
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
12-Jul
16:54
Harlem Rd.
Plain Twp.
Plain Twp.
Working fire
14-Jul
13:00
Easton Hilton
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
7977
2016 Annual Report
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
10
Date
Time
#
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
15-Jul
Easton Hilton
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
16-Jul
Easton Hilton
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
18-Jul
13:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
21-Jul
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
21-Jul
11:00
465
S Drexel Ave.
Bexley
Columbus
Training
21-Jul
11:54
304
S. Oakley Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
21-Jul
15:36
0
E. Hidden Ravines Dr.
Lewis Center
Orange Twp.
Gas Leak
22-Jul
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
23-Jul
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
24-Jul
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
25-Jul
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
25-Jul
26-Jul
30-Jul
16:00
2522
11:00 - 17:30
10:00
Breanna Pl.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
S. Lackey Old State Rd.
Berlin Twp.
Berlin Twp.
Civic Event
August
Hot weather protocol continued to keep crews busy during August. The month started with hot
weather responses to two working fires and a natural gas leak. Then there was the 12th.
The day started with Battelle's Founder's Day Car Show, which Rehab 3 participated in. Due to
hot weather conditions, a standby crew was also on duty to respond to any working incidents.
Shortly after 2pm, a
working fire broke out in
an apartment on the far
east side. Rehab 1
responded to provide
rehab for companies still
on-scene after a quick
knock down. Then
around 4:15pm, a fire
was reported at a
recycling facility on
Marion Rd. – Marion
Road, the area of last
year’s 4-alarm fire.
Rehab 1 had cleared
Mendon Place and was
Marion Road 4-alarm fire – Photo by J.O’Brien
picking up some ice
2016 Annual Report
11
when the dispatch went out. Upon seeing the large column of smoke from the fire, Rehab 1
responded directly to the scene. The fire ultimately escalated to 4-alarm status, and both Rehab
1 and Rehab 3 were on-scene to provide rehab and support services. The rehab sector finally
terminated the following morning after over 16 hours on-scene.
On the 19th, Box 15 was on-scene of a large
3-alarm warehouse fire that ultimately
destroyed the building. Rehab 3 provided
support for training activities on the 25th.
The month ended with another busy day on
the 27th. Rehab 1 was scheduled to be at the
Madison County Fairgrounds in London for
the Madison County Safety Expo, hosted by
Madison County EMA. Due to the
temperatures expected, hot weather
standby protocol was also in effect for the
afternoon. Within 5 minutes of arriving at
the fairgrounds, Box 15 was requested at a
working apartment fire on the east side. The
crew headed out and provided rehab
support to the crews still on-scene. Rehab 1
then returned to the Safety Expo around
noontime. Shortly after clearing the
fairground at 2pm, another working fire
Valleyview Drive 3-alarm fire – Photo by J.Penty
broke out on east side. Rehab 1 again
responded the 35 miles from London to the scene, providing rehab to companies remaining on
scene.
Date
2-Aug
3-Aug
3-Aug
Time
#
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
19:32
4693
Harlem Rd.
Galena
Harlem Twp.
Working fire
4-Aug
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
5-Aug
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
5-Aug
11:32
1323
Republic Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
8-Aug
08:30
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
IFCF
Civic Event
10-Aug
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
11-Aug
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
11-Aug
11:42
600
2016 Annual Report
High St.
Worthington
Worthington
Gas Leak
12
Date
12-Aug
Time
#
11:00 - 20:00
12-Aug
08:00
12-Aug
14:21
12-Aug
13-Aug
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
Battelle
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
3695
Mendon Pl.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
16:28
1015
Marion Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
4th Alarm
09:00
1049
Harmon Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
755
Stelzer Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
13-Aug
19-Aug
21:14
3080
Valleyview Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
3rd Alarm
25-Aug
08:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
Training
27-Aug
11:00 - 20:00
27-Aug
09:00
27-Aug
09:01
27-Aug
14:09
28-Aug
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
Madison County Fairgrounds
London
London
Civic Event
502
Barnett Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Extra Co Fire
1083
S. Hampton Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
11:00 - 20:00
Hot Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
September
Although temperatures began cooling off, September was still a fairly busy month. The month
started with Rehab 3 participating in Pickerington’s Labor Day parade on the 5 th, followed by a
working fire that evening. Mid-month brought two 2-alarm fires on the north side, a 2-alarm
fire on the far eastside, the 9/11 Stair Climb, two days of training support, and a large working
fire in Washington Township. The month ended with Rehab 1 providing rehab support for a Red
Cross smoke detector outreach and Rehab 3 participating in the VFW’s Safety Days on the 24th.
Date
Time
#
1-Sep
22:07
2987
5-Sep
10:00
5-Sep
18:40
10-Sep
05:05
11-Sep
13-Sep
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
Rollingwood Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
Labor Day Parade
Pickerington
Violet Twp.
Civic Event
8383
Morse Rd.
New Albany
Jefferson Twp.
Working fire
2999
Silver Drive
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
07:00
100
E. Broad St.
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
05:26
8027
Solitude Dr.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
13-Sep
13:00
3663
Parsons Ave
Columbus
Columbus
Training
14-Sep
09:00
3663
Parsons Ave
Columbus
Columbus
Training
19-Sep
02:15
2444
Brice Rd.
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
2nd Alarm
20-Sep
05:40
4338
Bright Rd.
Dublin
Washington Twp.
Working fire
24-Sep
09:00
Lockbourne Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
24-Sep
09:00
Hyde Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
Red Cross
2505
2016 Annual Report
13
October
October brought some relief, both with temperatures and activity. Box 15 participated in the
City of Delaware’s First Friday, Plain Township’s Open House, and three recruit class training
activities. To close out October, we responded to a 2nd alarm apartment fire on the far north
side of town on the 30th, our only fire run of the month.
Date
Time
#
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
2-Oct
12:00
260
N. Fourth St.
Columbus
Columbus
Civic Event
7-Oct
18:00
60
William St.
Delaware
Delaware
Civic Event
9-Oct
10:00
6200
U.S. Rt. 62
New Albany
Plain Twp.
Civic Event
19-Oct
12:00
683
Pittsburgh Dr.
Delaware
Delaware
Training
21-Oct
10:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
Training
26-Oct
14:30
3663
Parsons Ave
Columbus
Columbus
Training
28-Oct
08:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
Training
30-Oct
15:25
8318
Bruntsfield Rd.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
November
Although less active than the previous month, fire activity
picked up during November, with Box 15 responding to
three 2-alarm fires. The first was on the city’s north side at a
2-story apartment building. The second was in Franklin
Township. Smoke could be seen for miles around. The area
had no hydrants, so five Columbus engines stretched a mile
of 5-inch supply line to the scene. The final fire run was to an
apartment on the far west side in Prairie Township. Box 15
also provided support at two training exercises and to
volunteers working Columbus’s Veterans Day Parade.
Stimmel Road 2-alarm fire – Photo by
J.O’Brien
Date
Time
#
3-Nov
08:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
Training
4-Nov
04:32
3688
Cleveland Ave.
Columbus
Clinton Twp.
2nd Alarm
12-Nov
07:26
1247
Stimmel Rd.
Columbus
Franklin Twp.
2nd Alarm
22-Nov
08:00
8895
E. Main St., Reynoldsburg
Reynoldsburg
Columbus
Training
28-Nov
03:19
66
Sturbridge Rd.
Columbus
Prairie Twp.
2nd Alarm
2016 Annual Report
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
14
December
Fire runs really picked up in December. The month
started with another 2nd alarm fire in Prairie
Township, this time at a greenhouse. Box 15
responded to another 2-alarm fire at an apartment
on the far east side the following week. With cold
temperatures came two nights of cold weather
standby protocol in the middle of the month,
resulting in crews responding to half a dozen fires
over the course of two consecutive nights. The month Hilliard Rome Road 2-alarm fire – Photo by
J.O’Brien
ended with Rehab 1 responding to a 2-alarm gas
leak/explosion/fire on West Broad Street. A construction crew hit a gas line that ultimately
resulted in an explosion and fire, destroying a Domino's restaurant. The fire took some time to
contain as it was being fueled by the active gas leak.
Date
Time
#
9-Dec
01:18
800
Hilliard Rome Rd.
Columbus
Prairie Twp.
2nd Alarm
14-Dec
05:09
6760
E. Livingston Ave.
Reynoldsburg
Truro
2nd Alarm
14-Dec
19:00 - 08:00
Street
Community
Jurisdiction
Incident
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
14-Dec
20:04
1604
E. Twenty Fifth Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
14-Dec
22:03
5265
Sweet William Ct.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
15-Dec
00:41
93
N. Princeton Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
15-Dec
19:00 - 08:00
Cold Weather Protocol Standby - Staff Rehab 1 to respond on all working incidents
15-Dec
20:06
2269
Jefferson Ave.
Columbus
Columbus
Working fire
16-Dec
05:35
3658
Panama Dr.
Westerville
Westerville
Working fire
21-Dec
14:19
2857
W. Broad St.
Columbus
Columbus
2nd Alarm
Financial Performance
2016 was a very successful year for us financially. Apparel sales remained strong and donations
were up significantly. One bright spot was the success of the quilt raffle. We raised more than
$3,400 in total (some of the income had been reported in 2015, as we spent about 6 months
doing ticket sales.) We had enough funding from corporate sponsorships that kept us from
going into the red for the awards dinner. We did have the expense of placing a new truck in
service, but the funding came from our apparatus fund and proceeds from the sale of the 1991
Sentinel. Our consumable costs were down due to a very generous donation of sports drink
product from MSC Supply. After the first of the year, we will be transferring funds to both the
regular savings and the apparatus fund accounts.
2016 Annual Report
15
Revenue (rounded to nearest $)
Apparel & Other Sales
41,761
Sales Tax & Shipping
2,156
Donations
6,432
Dues, Fees & Assessments
1,729
Recognition Dinner
2,791
Badge Deposits
0
Raffles
1,889
Dividends
7
Misc. Income
2,268
Total
$59,033
Expenses (rounded to nearest $)
Fund Raising
Purchase Expense
22,493
Credit Card fees
568
Sales Tax & Shipping
1,927
Operations
Licenses & Insurance
2,447
Tools & Equipment
3,867
Repairs & Maintenance
8,219
Consumables
1,361
Miscellaneous
24
Administrative
Postage & Office Exp.
33
Background Checks
230
Subscriptions
191
IFBA Convention, Prof. Dues
50
Awards Dinner, Certificates
2,793
Donations
658
Cookout
179
Taxes & Fees
1,019
Admin Misc.
114
Total
$46,173
Net Gain (Retained Earnings)
$12,860
2016 Annual Report
16
Benefactor Acknowledgments
Over the years, we’ve been blessed with the help from a great number of friends and sponsors.
Box 15 would be hard-pressed to provide our level of service without the generosity of others.
We would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the following for their support:


Columbus Firefighters Local 67
Thompson Building Associates - supplying bottled water since 2005


Niagara Water Company
MSC Industrial Supply



Fire Chief’s Association of Central Ohio
Delaware County Fire Chief’s Association
Columbus Division of Fire


Jerome Township Fire Chief Scott Skeldon
CME Federal Credit Union



1-800-BOARDUP
Paul Davis Restoration
Sure Clean


Washington Township Fire Department
Franklin Township Firefighters Local #1441


Norwich Township Fire Department
Plus several individual donors
Partnerships & Alliances
Cooperation is essential in life, especially in the fire service. Fire departments have formal
Mutual Aid agreements. We are fortunate to share cooperative efforts with both the Columbus
Fire Auxiliary and the Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center. We would also like to
acknowledge the cooperative efforts between Box 15 and several other fire rehab services
throughout Central Ohio, including the Union County EMA, Box 49 in Madison County, Box 65 in
Pickaway County and Support 401 in western Licking County. We also appreciate the
cooperative effort with Red Cross and with the Delaware County EMS Service. We couldn’t do
what we do without the efforts of all these groups.
Box 15 is pleased to have affiliations with the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Central Ohio, the
Franklin County Fire Chiefs’ Association, the Delaware County Fire Chief’s Association, the
Fairfield County Fire Chiefs Association, the Franklin County Chiefs of Police, Franklin County
2016 Annual Report
17
CERT, the Volunteer Organization Coordinating Council, Northwest Area Strike Team and the
Central Ohio Strike Team.
2016 Firefighter Awards
Sunday, April 10 was a rather bittersweet day. It was our Annual Firefighter Awards Dinner, but
the day started about 4am when we were dispatched to a SWAT/Working Fire situation in the
north end of Columbus. The barricaded suspect, who was being served a warrant for arson,
shot SWAT Officer Steven Smith and set his own apartment on fire. Ultimately, the 6-unit
apartment building was gutted, 5 other residents were left homeless and the police officer, a 27
year veteran of the Columbus Police Department, was critically injured. Sadly, Officer Smith
succumbed to his injuries and died two days later. Rehab 1 remained on scene for several hours
while the suspect was finally apprehended and the fire department was allowed to fight the
fire. In the evening, we were able to hold our planned event, honoring three firefighters and
five Box 15 members. We also held the drawing for the tee shirt quilt that was donated by
“Quilters on the Canal”.
Columbus firefighters Eric Norman and Mark Foster both were recognized with the Max
Haverman “Outstanding Columbus Firefighter” award, while Lt. K. J. Watts with the City of
Lancaster received the Larry Parlett “Outstanding County Firefighter” award. All three
recipients are truly outstanding individuals who demonstrate great professionalism. We are
pleased to be able to honor them.
Award recipients (L to R) Box 15 President Bob Hess, member J. J. Corcella, Columbus Firefighter Eric Norman,
Columbus Firefighter Mark Foster, Lancaster Lt. K. J. Watts, member Jerry Keaton, Treasurer Brett Barber & VP
Joseph O' Brien – Photo by S.Lewis
2016 Annual Report
18
Columbus Battalion Chief Richard Gall, in nominating Eric Norman, wrote:
I would like to nominate Eric Norman, Rescue 4, 2-unit, for the Box 15 “Max
Haverman” Distinguished Fire Service Award. In his 25 year career, Eric has been
an extraordinary asset to the Columbus Division of Fire, serving as a paramedic,
an in-charge Rescue, and as a Haz-Mat technician. Additionally, he is an active
member of the CISM Team, a member of the Central Ohio Strike Team, a
member of the Tunnel Collapse Rescue Team, and a charter member of the
Dive and Rescue Team (for which he is a Dive Supervisor and a Certified Public
Safety Trainer). Furthermore, Eric is a Public Safety Services Instructor and
routinely teaches various classes at our training academy. Such is the quality of
instruction that Eric provides, whenever prospective “In-Charge Rescue”
candidates are being trained, their training always consists of several days at
Rescue 4 with Eric.
On his days off, Eric is an active member of his church where he also
serves as the trustee. He is also a member of Buckeye Baptist Builders, an
organization tasked with building church related structures worldwide. At his own
expense, he has literally helped people all over the globe. Eric has used his own
personal vacation time to build a church in Russia, build a missionary’s home in
Japan, assist the displaced people of Kosovo, and work on numerous projects
here in the states. He was even part of a select group of firefighters that
volunteered for a thirty day stay in Mississippi to work with FEMA assisting victims
of hurricane Katrina.
Through all of Eric’s professional and personal involvements, what is most
remarkable is the level of expertise he displays. He is not satisfied to simply be a
contributing part of a team; he manages to set himself apart as one of the “go
to” guys that everyone else can depend on for direction and insight appropriate
to the task at hand. The dedication and devotion that Eric applies to everything
to which he sets his hand make him an invaluable asset and a truly exceptional
individual.
Eric is an exemplary leader in the firehouse and in the community. His
common sense and quiet good humor make him a favorite of all who have the
pleasure of working with him. Most importantly, Eric is a genuinely good and
decent man. His professionalism is unquestionable, his character is unblemished,
and his reputation for excellence is well deserved. I consider it a privilege to work
with him and an honor to call him my friend.
These are but a few of the many reasons why it gives me great pride to
nominate Eric Norman for the Box 15 “Max Haverman” Distinguished Fire Service
Award.
2016 Annual Report
19
Columbus Lt. Garey Borgan, in nominating Mark Foster, wrote:
I would like to nominate F.F. Mark J. Foster for the Max Haverman award. I
feel F.F. Foster would make a great recipient for the following reasons using the
listed criteria.
Professional Skills: F.F. Foster has been assigned to Ladder One three unit
for almost 27 years. This has been his only permanent assignment. He has
obtained Rescue Technician, ISU (incident support unit) and maintained his
efficiency for both. F.F. Foster’s skills are second to none. When it comes to F.F.
Foster’s professional appearance he is always in compliance with the division’s
dress code and grooming policy whether in the firehouse or on the fire ground.
His uniform is always neat and clean, shoes polished, hair groomed and clean
shaven. He always has his full complement of protective gear on as the situation
dictates on the fire ground. F.F. Foster’s ability to complete any task given to him
demonstrates his knowledge in many areas. If he doesn’t already know how to
fix something, he will figure out how to. F.F. Foster demonstrates his dedication to
the fire service every day. While on or off duty, Mark conducts himself as a true
representative of the Division of Fire. Mark volunteered to be a member of the
Honor Guard. He takes great pride while performing these duties. He has been
involved with many fire service funerals both in and out of state. He has even
represented the Columbus Division of Fire at the National Fallen Firefighters
Memorial in Colorado. F.F. Foster is always courteous. Whenever we have visitors
at the station, whether Mark is the station watchman or not, he is one of the first
to greet visitors. His willingness to answer any questions, give tours of the
equipment or station speaks highly of his character. I believe his professionalism is
covered in the above paragraphs. I have had the honor to work with F.F. Foster
over the last seven years. In my 28 years on the department, I have never
worked with a more dependable person. He always shows up for work and is on
time. If I give Mark a task, I know it will be completed. Mark performs many duties
around the firehouse. He manages the payments of station house bills, the pop
machine and has even taken it upon himself to collect recyclables from all three
units and dispose of them properly. Most of the time he uses his private vehicle to
transport these recyclables. I feel that F.F. Foster goes above and beyond what is
required of him every day. Because of this and many items listed above, I am
nominating him for the “Max Haverman Distinguished Service Award”.
Lancaster Chief David Ward, in nominating K.J. Watts, wrote:
Lt. Watts has been a member of the Lancaster Fire Department for 17
years and was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt Watts has
assumed a true leadership role within our department. He continuously
2016 Annual Report
20
volunteers to lead many major projects within our department. For example, he
led our recent efforts to update our Standard Operating Procedures, a project
which consumed nearly a year’s worth of effort. Additionally, he was an integral
part of our department’s first ever performance evaluations program for nonprobationary personnel. He provided valuable insight, not only into the company
officer’s view point, but also from the Union’s view point, as he was the Local
291’s president at this point in time.
He recently completed the Blue Card - Train the Trainer course in Arizona
and will provide our department with valuable, hands on training for fireground
tactics. Lt Watts is a certified fire instructor and coordinates the lab portion of the
fire science program for Hocking College. He is a fire instructor for our
department and provides our members important CEUs in order for them to
maintain their fire certifications.
In October of 2015, Lt Watts was promoted to the additional role of public
information officer for the Lancaster Fire Department. KJ’s exceptional abilities to
communicate clearly and concisely made him a natural selection for this
position. Since this promotion he has appeared in local print, television and radio
and provided our department many positive experiences.
Finally, Lt Watts was selected to become part of the Ohio Fire Executive
program. Our department is very proud of him and it is my belief that the future
of the Lancaster Fire Department rests with individuals such as K.J; therefore, it is
my hope that your committee considers Lt Watts for this prestigious award.
Five Box 15 members received performance-based awards. The Harry W. Knodel Award, given
to those who participated in 40% or more of all Box 15 activities through the year, was earned
by Past President and current Treasurer Brett Barber.
The Peter R. Fowler Award is presented to those members who have participate in 25% or more
of the club’s activities. President Bob Hess, Vice President Joe O’Brien and members J. J.
Corcella and Jerry Keaton all earned this award.
The criteria for these awards are to respond to incidents when Box 15 is dispatched, participate
in fund raising and maintenance activities, and attendance at the monthly meetings. It does not
include going to Association meetings, informal lunches or any other activities where all
members could participate.
2016 Annual Report
21
Membership
Active members total 26, with the addition of Joe Penty, Duane Davidson, Sarai Hathaway, Zach
Mills, Bruce Lerner and Daniel Burry in 2016. Two prospective members were also going
through the membership process at year’s end. One member moved from Active to Affiliate.
Affiliates are welcome to all activities but have no attendance requirements or privileges to
vote, present motions or hold office. Two members transitioned to Life membership status.
Training
Not only does Box 15 take an active role in supporting firefighters during their training
evolutions, training is an important process for us, as well. Typically, every other monthly
meeting is designated as a training meeting. Although there is some deviation (depending upon
needs), we try to have a mix of business and training gatherings, with a few social activities
scattered in. We continually cover topics such as radio operation protocols, documentation,
equipment function and deployment, driver training, and new member orientation.
Charitable Support
Box 15 also believes in giving back to the community. Each year we participate in several public
and civic events. During 2016, we were involved with or donated to the following causes:








Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center (support services)
National Fallen Firefighters (donation)
Ohio Arson School (donation)
Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Association (concierge & security services)
Stefanie Spielman Fund (donation – apparel sale proceeds)
Fire Fighter Cancer Foundation (donation – apparel sale proceeds)
Military Veteran’s Association (shelter & canteen service)
American Red Cross (canteen service for smoke alarm outreach)
Other Noteworthy Items
As was mentioned earlier, Columbus SWAT Officer Steven Smith was killed following a SWAT
standoff/working fire incident in April. His funeral was April 19th at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic
Church in Westerville. Box 15 provided rehab and support services throughout the funeral
2016 Annual Report
22
service. Several thousand were in attendance, including police and SWAT officers from around
the country. This was by far the largest event in Box 15 history.
Then in May, Hilliard Police Office Sean Johnson was killed in a motorcycle crash during a
training exercise. The funeral was on May 25th, again at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.
Box 15 provided rehab support during both the funeral and graveside services.
Box 15 was honored to provide support services to those in attendance of both events during
such trying times.
Our fire department tee shirt quilt raffle turned out to be one of the best fundraisers we’ve
ever held. After all the expenses (ticket printing, advertising, etc.), we netted roughly $3,400.
We sincerely thank everyone who supported us through ticket purchases, the Quilters on the
Canal organization who produced the quilt, the many fire departments that donated shirts, and
our members who worked hours visiting fire stations and selling tickets. Proceeds were placed
in our apparatus and equipment fund to help with the cost of replacing Rehab 3 – a 25+ year
old truck that traveled nearly 200,000 miles.
In May, Box 15 was the recipient of the
Hometown Hero Award, presented by CME
Credit Union, Sunny 95 and ThisWeek
Community Newspapers. The monthly award is
given to those who are shown to make a
difference in the community. Box 15 was
honored to be selected as May’s Hometown
Hero.
Box 15 made some changes to its fleet this year
with the purchase of a new truck in May. As
Rehab 3, a 1991 International-Sentinel,
continued to age, it began experiencing electrical
problems that ultimately rendered the
Hometown Hero Award – Photo courtesy CME Credit Union
emergency lighting and related warning systems
useless. During the spring of 2016, the club began discussing and researching options for
replacing the unit. The decision was eventually made to go with a 1997 Ford Horton medic that
had previously belonged to the City of Delaware. Although nearly 20 years old, the truck was in
great shape, had only 65,000 miles on the odometer, a recently rebuilt transmission, and was
only taken out of service so the city could have a fleet of matching medic units. Its
compartment and storage capacity was comparable to that of Rehab 1, but with a smaller
overall footprint, being based on the E-450 chassis.
2016 Annual Report
23
Box 15 took possession of
the new truck in early May
and began the process of
outfitting it for rehab
services. Much of the
equipment from Rehab 3
was removed and
reinstalled in the new
truck, including its 3kW
generator. Given the box
size and layout, equipment
placement and setup is
New Rehab 3 – Photo by B.Barber
nearly identical to that of
Rehab 1. Additional equipment was purchased and installed for what couldn't be salvaged from
Rehab 3, and new decals applied. During a scheduled service visit, our friends at Horton
Emergency Vehicles even replaced the rear flashers, turn signals and brake lights with LED
lightheads.
The ‘91 Sentinel was taken out of service and sold on June 10, 2016. The first in-service event
for the newly named Rehab 3 was the disaster drill at
Rickenbacker International Airport in June.
On June 15th, Box 15 received a major donation from
MSC Industrial Supply. MSC donated more than
$10,000 worth of Gatorade and Sqwincher products.
The supplies were shared with Box 65 from Pickaway
County, Union County EMA and Support 401 from
Licking County. A big thanks to MSC for the generous
donation!
Decontamination shower - Photo by S.Lewis
2016 Annual Report
In August, the International Firefighter Cancer
Foundation, in partnership with Millennium
Enterprises, presented Box 15 with the First Wash
Decontamination Shower to help wash off carcinogens
from PPE. Box 15 will make this available to any
agency that requests it. Box 15 is the first organization
or agency in Ohio to receive this equipment!
24
Vital Statistics
Berlin Township
Columbus Battalion 1
Columbus Battalion 4
Columbus Battalion 7
Franklin Township
Jefferson Township
Norwich Township
Prairie Township
Violet Township
Worthington
1
4
1
2
1
2
4
2
1
1
Runs by Jurisdiction:
Civic/Other
Columbus Battalion 2
Columbus Battalion 5
Cols Fire Training Acad.
Hamilton Township
Madison Township
Orange Township
Red Cross
Washington Township
Runs by severity:
Working fire
Extra company fire
2 Alarm fire
3 Alarm fire
4 Alarm fire
Hazmat/Bomb
Gas leak
Explosion
Law Enforcement
Red Cross support
Training Support
Civic Events & Other
26
3
20
1
1
1
3
1
5
8
12
14
9
6
8
7
1
4
1
8
4
Clinton Township
1
Columbus Battalion 3 8
Columbus Battalion 6 13
Delaware
2
Harlem Township
1
Mifflin Township
1
Plain Township
2
Truro Township
1
Westerville
1
Miscellaneous Statistics
Fire & Police Personnel served
Vehicle In service hours (runs)
Member “in-service” hours (runs)
Miles Travelled
Generator Hours
Misting Fan Hours
Heater Hours
Runs per Unit & Severe Weather Deployments
Rehab 1:
62 Rehab 2:
13
Rehab 3:
21 POV:
Cold weather standby (12 hour shift) (also crew hours)
7 Shifts
Hot weather standby (8 hour shift) (also crew hours)
17 Shifts
4940
464
1279
2860
87
18
8
22
95 Crew hours
147 Crew hours
Member Activity Level
2016 activities (runs, special duty, shirt sales, work details, meetings, etc.) Total 178 events
Barber
99 Penty
67 O'Brien
66 Hess
54 Knowles
Davidson
49 Corcella
47 Keaton
41 Lewis
25 Mills
Murphy
21 Northrop
21 Fuhrmann
15 Hathaway
14 Henderson
Fricke
12 Gibson
12 Goldstein
12 Meyer
10 Adams
Karr
9 Kuczek
9 Shop
8 Burry
7 Lerner
Swisher
7 Maupin
6 Potts
6 Phillips
5 Vaughn
Clegg
2
2016 Annual Report
53
22
13
9
7
3
25
Bottled water
Sqwincher (gallons)
Hot chocolate (cups)
Pizza (large)
Rehab towels
6506
60
134
46
245
Consumables:
Bulk water (gallons) used
Sqwincher sticks
Granola bars (2/pkg)
Apples (pound)
Anti-cancer Wipes
230
360
1909
12
600+
Coffee (gallons)
Gatorade (bottles)
Ice (pounds)
Cookies (dozen)
75
365
2516
10
Executive Board for 2017






President – Brett Barber (1st term; formerly President, Vice President, Treasurer &
Trustee)
Vice President – Joseph O’Brien (2nd term; formerly Secretary)
Secretary – Tom Knowles (1st term)
Treasurer – Pamela Murphy (1st term; formerly Secretary)
Trustee – Sonny J. Lewis (5th term)
Trustee – John Kuczek (2nd Term; formerly President & Vice President)
Cover Photo Credits
Front cover: Silver Drive 2-alarm fire – Photo by J.Penty
Actions Shots
Working fire, Stelzer Rd. – Photo by T.Knowles
2016 Annual Report
26
Working fire, Brehl Ave. – Photo courtesy Local 67
Working fire, Lechner Ave. – Photo by J.O’Brien
2016 Annual Report
27
2-alarm fire, Chatford Dr. – Photo by T.Knowles
Working fire, Clearwater Dr. – Photo by T.Knowles
Puppies rescued from Clearwater Dr. working fire – Photo by
T.Knowles
Funeral services for fallen Columbus SWAT Officer Steven Smith – Photo by T.Knowles
2016 Annual Report
28
Working fire, Mt. Vernon Ave. – Photo by J.O’Brien
Working fire & SWAT standoff, N. High St. – Photo by J.O’Brien
Working fire, Canal Rd. – Photo by T.Knowles
2016 Annual Report
29
Greenfield Township & American Red Cross smoke detector outreach – Photo by T.Knowles
Rickenbacker International Airport disaster drill, with Box 65 – Photo by T.Knowles
2016 Annual Report
30
2-alarm fire, Breanna Pl. – Photo by B.Barber
Working fire, Chaffin Ridge – Photo by J.O’Brien
4-alarm fire, Marion Rd. – Photo by T.Knowles
2-alarm fire, Silver Dr. – Photo by J.Penty
2016 Annual Report
31
4-alarm fire, Marion Rd. – Photo by D.Davidson
2-alarm fire, Stimmel Rd. – Photo by J.O’Brien
Gas leak, Inverness Ct. – Photo by J.O’Brien
3-alarm fire, Valleyview Dr. – Photo by J.O’Brien
2016 Annual Report
3-alarm fire, Valleyview Dr. – Photo by J.O’Brien
32
2-alarm fire, Bruntsfield Dr. – Photo by J.O’Brien
2-alarm fire, Stimmel Rd. – Photo by J.O’Brien
2-alarm fire, Stimmel Rd. – Photo by J.O’Brien
2-alarm gas leak/fire/explosion, W. Broad St. – Photo by J.Penty
2016 Annual Report
33
St. Patrick's Day Parade (Photo courtesy Retired Asst. Chief John Rees)
2016 Annual Report
34