Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Zayante fire Chief Jeff Maxwell takes helm at Central Fire Protection District

Zayante fire chief takes top position at Central
by Peter Burke / Press-Banner

Zayante Fire District Battalion Chief John Stipes (left) and Chief
 Jeff Maxwell chat in front of the districts new 800-gallon fire engine.
 Stipes will become interim chief on Monday, March 22, after Maxwell 
accepted the chief position at Central Fire Protection District.  Peter 
Burke/Press-Banner
Zayante Fire District Battalion Chief John Stipes (left) and Chief Jeff Maxwell chat in front of the districts new 800-gallon fire engine. Stipes will become interim chief on Monday, March 22, after Maxwell accepted the chief position at Central Fire Protection District. Peter Burke/Press-Banner
 
Zayante fire Chief Jeff Maxwell is leaving the Zayante Fire Protection District after a 10-year stint as the head of the agency where he got his start as a volunteer in 1980.

Maxwell, 47, will replace the retired Bruce Clark at Central Fire Protection District — an agency with 54 firefighters that serves Live Oak, Soquel and Capitola.

In his stead, Battalion Chief John Stipes will take over as interim chief of the Zayante Fire Department while the board of directors posts the job opening and completes the hiring process.

Board member Priva Tarbet said Maxwell has been very important to the department in many ways.

“The firefighters all have a great respect for him and feel confident in his leadership,” Tarbet said. “Zayante has been very, very lucky to have him as our chief for as long as we’ve had.”

Maxwell is a San Lorenzo Valley High School graduate and will continue to live just down the road from the fire station.

“There is a very tight sense of community here,” Maxwell said of the 23 volunteer district and its four paid firefighters. “We know we provide a high level of service, and I’m going to try to carry that to Central.”

He said he made the difficult decision to leave the district in order to stop commuting to the Moraga Orinda Fire Protection District, where he has worked as a battalion chief for two days each week since 2007.

He’s looking forward to the challenges that Central faces, like dealing with storm damage along the coast and water rescues.

“Storm surge is not in my portfolio,” he joked, noting that fire trucks at Central must carry surfboards on their engines.

Maxwell credits the rapport between the Zayante and Lompico communities and the district that previous fire chiefs Nick Pagnini and Ken Boynton fostered for the success he’s had as chief. At the annual fire team pancake breakfast, about 1,500 people showed up.

“This community knows who we are and they support us,” Maxwell said.

During his time with Zayante, Maxwell noted the district has a balanced budget and re-financed bonds that were selling with a 10 percent interest rate to between 4 percent and 6 percent, saving homeowners money.

He was also instrumental in the district choosing to generate its own electricity with solar panels and earning a strong insurance rating, the number that determines fire insurance costs for people in the district. 
Source: Press-Banner Article Link

LACFD Engine #51in quarters - Los Angeles Fire Museum

The County of Los Angeles Fire Museum is calling all the Emergency TV show fans.

County of Los Angeles Fire Museum wants your help with the details to restore Engine 51. This video provides a tour of outside of the Engine as it is today. Please see part 2 to see the interior and the compartments.

 Help the County of Los Angeles Fire Museum discover the details so they can restore Engine 51 to perfection. In part 2 take a tour of the interior and the compartments of the Engine today. Note what is missing, and what they need to do, and let them know. Become a part of the restoration. See part one to tour the exterior of Engine 51:


The actual Ward LaFrance Engine #51 as used in the 1970s tv show "Emergency". It  has returned home to Los Angelas County Fire Department from Yosemite National Park Camp Curry where it served for many years, She is now at the County of Los Angeles Fire Museum where a full restoration will be undertaken.
Source: LACFD YouTube page: Link
YouTube: video link
More Info: Los Angeles Fire Museum Association - Link

Ben Lomond Fire chief retires after 37 years fighting fire

BEN LOMOND -- In a little more than a month, Ben Lomond Fire District Chief John Charcho plans to step away from the job he's had for nearly six years and plant some tomatoes, as well as spend more time with his family.


After a firefighting career that began 37 years ago, the chief will retire April 30.

"I am looking forward to visiting my daughters, son-in-laws and grandchildren," said Charcho, a San Francisco native who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War before joining the San Jose Fire Department in November 1972. "Two of my daughters and their families live out of the area. My youngest daughter teaches third grade at Main Street Elementary School in Soquel."

Charcho, the son of a former San Francisco firefighter, became Ben Lomond's chief about six years ago, two-and-a-half years after he retired from a 28-year firefighting career in San Jose. His last post there was in the arson investigations unit and fire liaison to the San Jose Police Department.

"I retired from San Jose Fire Department after 28 years because it's a young person's job and I was not interested in sleepless nights, responding to emergencies and firefighting due to the toll it takes on your body after that many years," Charcho said.

He said he never would have thought he'd become a fire chief in the area where his family vacationed when he was a child.

His parents had a summer home in Lompico in the 1950s and '60s, he said. And an uncle had a home in Ben Lomond during the same time. In 1989, before the Loma Prieta earthquake, he, his wife and three daughters moved to Ben Lomond "for the climate and atmosphere."

Among his accomplishments as Ben Lomond's fire chief, Charcho instituted Tuesday training days for the district's 35 volunteer firefighters who get paid when they respond to fires, such the Brookdale Inn and Spa and the Lockheed Fire. Also, during this past winter's storms, he created a Twitter account so followers could "tweet" about road conditions.

"This storm season, our office received lots of inquiries about why this road is closed," he said. "I started the Twitter account because I thought it would be a good use of technology. When I was commuting to San Jose, I would have liked to know what roads to avoid."

The site, http://twitter.com/slvroads, has nearly 160 followers and is strictly about road conditions, not advertisement or announcing pancake breakfasts, Charcho said.

Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel - Article link

Earthquake: 4.1 Ml - BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.1 Ml
Date-Time
  • 31 Mar 2010 09:20:25 UTC
  • 31 Mar 2010 01:20:25 near epicenter
  • 31 Mar 2010 01:20:25 standard time in your timezone
Location 32.362N 115.219W
Depth 8 km
Distances
  • 13 km (8 miles) NW (308 degrees) of Guadalupe Victoria, Baja California, Mexico
  • 40 km (25 miles) SE (144 degrees) of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico
  • 43 km (27 miles) WSW (255 degrees) of San Luis R�o Colorado, Sonora, Mexico
  • 170 km (106 miles) E (96 degrees) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 1.7 km; Vertical 7.6 km
Parameters Nph = 22; Dmin = 47.0 km; Rmss = 0.45 seconds; Gp = 223°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID CI 14606268
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
CISN Southern California Management Center Caltech Seismological Laboratory U.S. Geological Survey http://www.cisn.org/scmc.html
Disclaimer

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

NTSB: INVESTIGATING NEAR MID-AIR COLLISION OVER SAN FRANCISCO

NTSB ADVISORY -NTSB INVESTIGATING NEAR MID-AIR COLLISION OVER SAN FRANCISCO INVOLVING COMMERCIAL JETLINER AND SMALL PLANE

The NTSB has launched an investigation to determine why a
commercial jetliner and a small light airplane came within
an estimated 300 feet of colliding over San Francisco on
Saturday.

At about 11:15 a.m. PDT on March 27, the crew of United
Airlines Flight 889, a B777-222 (N216UA) destined for
Beijing, China, carrying 251 passengers and a crew of 17,
was cleared to takeoff from San Francisco International
Airport (SFO) on runway 28L and climb to an initial altitude
of 3,000 feet. The first officer, who was flying the
aircraft, reported that after the landing gear was retracted
and the jet was at an altitude of about 1,100 feet, the
tower controller reported traffic at his 1 o'clock position.
Immediately following the controller's advisory, the
airplane's traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS) issued
an audible alert of "TRAFFIC TRAFFIC."

The pilots saw a light high wing airplane, an Aeronca 11AC
(N9270E), in a hard left turn traveling from their 1 o'clock
to 3 o'clock position. The first officer pushed the control
column forward to level the airplane. Both crew members
reported seeing only the underside of the Aeronca as it
passed to within an estimated 200-300 feet of the 777.

TCAS then issued an "ADJUST VERTICAL SPEED" alert, followed
by a "DESCEND, DESCEND" alert. The first officer complied
and the flight continued to Beijing without further
incident.

NTSB investigator Scott Dunham is traveling to San Francisco
to begin the investigation. 

###

National Transportation Safety Board
Washington, DC 20594

March 30, 2010
NTSB Media Contact: Peter Knudson
(202) 314-6100
peter.knudson@ntsb.gov

Earthquake: 6.4 MI - ANDAMAN ISLANDS, INDIA REGION

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.4 Mw
Date-Time
  • 30 Mar 2010 16:54:48 UTC
  • 30 Mar 2010 22:24:48 near epicenter
  • 30 Mar 2010 08:54:48 standard time in your timezone
Location 13.616N 92.858E
Depth 45 km
Distances
  • 217 km (135 miles) N (4 degrees) of Port Blair, Andaman Islands, India
  • 406 km (252 miles) SSW (210 degrees) of Pathein (Bassein), Myanmar
  • 500 km (311 miles) SW (226 degrees) of YANGON (Rangoon), Myanmar
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 6.8 km; Vertical 12.5 km
Parameters Nph = 91; Dmin = 868.4 km; Rmss = 1.12 seconds; Gp = 50°
M-type = Mw; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010ula2 ***This event supersedes event PT10089001.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Earthquake: Mb 4.5 - SONORA, MEXICO

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.5 Mb
Date-Time
  • 30 Mar 2010 09:14:18 UTC
  • 30 Mar 2010 02:14:18 near epicenter
  • 30 Mar 2010 01:14:18 standard time in your timezone
Location 31.675N 113.534W
Depth 10 km
Distances
  • 39 km (24 miles) N (359 degrees) of Puerto Pe�asco, Sonora, Mexico
  • 100 km (62 miles) SW (219 degrees) of Ajo, AZ
  • 120 km (75 miles) SSE (160 degrees) of Tacna, AZ
  • 146 km (91 miles) SE (126 degrees) of San Luis R�o Colorado, Sonora, Mexico
  • 342 km (212 miles) ESE (105 degrees) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 26.9 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 13; Dmin = 75.3 km; Rmss = 1.31 seconds; Gp = 216°
M-type = Mb; Version = 7
Event ID US 2010ulai
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Earthquake: (Ml 4.4) NORTHERN ALASKA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.4 Ml
Date-Time
  • 28 Mar 2010 19:58:11 UTC
  • 28 Mar 2010 11:58:11 near epicenter
  • 28 Mar 2010 11:58:11 standard time in your timezone
Location 67.852N 156.211W
Depth 19 km
Distances
  • 108 km (67 miles) NNE (16 degrees) of Kobuk, AK
  • 110 km (69 miles) NE (39 degrees) of Ambler, AK
  • 114 km (71 miles) NNE (20 degrees) of Shungnak, AK
  • 505 km (314 miles) NW (315 degrees) of Fairbanks, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.8 km; Vertical 0.3 km
Parameters Nph = 25; Dmin = 233.6 km; Rmss = 0.94 seconds; Gp = 154°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID AK 10040683
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Earthquake: 4.3 Mb - NEW MEXICO

Globe with Earthquake Location
Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.3 Mb
Date-Time
  • 28 Mar 2010 00:03:55 UTC
  • 27 Mar 2010 18:03:55 near epicenter
  • 27 Mar 2010 16:03:55 standard time in your timezone
Location 32.554N 104.529W
Depth 5 km
Distances
  • 31 km (19 miles) WNW (292 degrees) of Carlsbad North, NM
  • 32 km (20 miles) WNW (300 degrees) of Carlsbad, NM
  • 34 km (21 miles) SSW (199 degrees) of Artesia, NM
  • 197 km (123 miles) ENE (64 degrees) of El Paso, TX
  • 725 km (450 miles) W (270 degrees) of Dallas, TX
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 10.8 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 31; Dmin = 81.7 km; Rmss = 1.17 seconds; Gp = 147°
M-type = Mb; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010uiba
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Earthquake 6.1 - MINDORO, PHILIPPINES

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.1 Mw
Date-Time
  • 25 Mar 2010 05:29:31 UTC
  • 25 Mar 2010 13:29:31 near epicenter
  • 24 Mar 2010 21:29:31 standard time in your timezone
Location 13.744N 120.069E
Depth 72 km
Distances
  • 106 km (66 miles) W (270 degrees) of Batangas, Luzon, Philippines
  • 122 km (76 miles) S (191 degrees) of Olongapo, Luzon, Philippines
  • 125 km (78 miles) WNW (289 degrees) of Calapan, Mindoro, Philippines
  • 137 km (85 miles) SW (225 degrees) of MANILA, Philippines
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 8.9 km; Vertical 13.0 km
Parameters Nph = 49; Dmin = 423.4 km; Rmss = 1.20 seconds; Gp = 39°
M-type = Mw; Version = 7
Event ID US 2010ugaf ***This event supersedes event PT10084001.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Ex-Fillmore Fire Department chief ordered to trial for theft

VENTURA, Calif. (CFN News) - Fillmore's ex-fire chief has been ordered to stand trial on charges he stole city money to pay for an employee's abortion and fund a lavish lifestyle that included cars, boats and a gambling habit.

Pete Egedi is charged in Ventura County with three felony grand theft counts and an embezzlement count.

At the conclusion of a Tuesday preliminary hearing, Superior Court Judge Nancy Ayers ordered trial for the 39-year-old Egedi. He remains free on $10,000 bail until arraignment April 9.

Prosecutor Kevin Drescher told the judge that Egedi used the Fire Department bank account as "his own personal slush fund."

Defense attorney Mark Pachowicz says Egedi didn't commit any crimes.



Information from: Ventura County Star, http://venturacountystar.com

Monday, March 22, 2010

Earthquake: (Mw 6.6) NEW IRELAND REGION, P.N.G. -3.4 152.2 (2c449)

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.6 Mw
Date-Time
  • 20 Mar 2010 14:00:50 UTC
  • 21 Mar 2010 00:00:50 near epicenter
  • 20 Mar 2010 06:00:50 standard time in your timezone
Location 3.380S 152.221E
Depth 415 km
Distances
  • 93 km (58 miles) N (3 degrees) of Rabaul, New Britain, PNG
  • 182 km (113 miles) ESE (120 degrees) of Kavieng, New Ireland, PNG
  • 435 km (270 miles) NE (43 degrees) of Kandrian, New Britain, PNG
  • 689 km (428 miles) ENE (57 degrees) of Lae, New Guinea, PNG
  • 875 km (544 miles) NE (40 degrees) of PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 4.6 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 258; Dmin = 999.9 km; Rmss = 0.92 seconds; Gp = 21°
M-type = Mw; Version = 7
Event ID US 2010ubaw ***This event has been revised.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Earthquake: Ml 4.7 ALASKA PENINSULA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.7 Ml
Date-Time
  • 22 Mar 2010 10:38:09 UTC
  • 22 Mar 2010 02:38:09 near epicenter
  • 22 Mar 2010 02:38:09 standard time in your timezone
Location 56.306N 156.532W
Depth 6 km
Distances
  • 116 km (72 miles) E (89 degrees) of Chignik, AK
  • 124 km (77 miles) E (89 degrees) of Chignik Lagoon, AK
  • 139 km (86 miles) E (87 degrees) of Chignik Lake, AK
  • 668 km (415 miles) SW (219 degrees) of Anchorage, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 1.0 km; Vertical 0.4 km
Parameters Nph = 18; Dmin = 147.0 km; Rmss = 0.25 seconds; Gp = 169°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID AK 10039500
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Earthquake: (Ml 4.4) NORTHERN ALASKA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.4 Ml
Date-Time
  • 22 Mar 2010 08:26:25 UTC
  • 22 Mar 2010 00:26:25 near epicenter
  • 22 Mar 2010 00:26:25 standard time in your timezone
Location 66.381N 157.665W
Depth 10 km
Distances
  • 61 km (38 miles) SSW (203 degrees) of Shungnak, AK
  • 68 km (42 miles) SSW (210 degrees) of Kobuk, AK
  • 79 km (49 miles) S (174 degrees) of Ambler, AK
  • 487 km (303 miles) WNW (295 degrees) of Fairbanks, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 2.1 km; Vertical 1.8 km
Parameters Nph = 36; Dmin = 181.1 km; Rmss = 0.86 seconds; Gp = 133°
M-type = Ml; Version = 2
Event ID AK 10039484 ***This event has been revised.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Earthquake: (Ml 4.8) NORTHERN ALASKA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.8 Ml
Date-Time
  • 22 Mar 2010 08:26:27 UTC
  • 22 Mar 2010 00:26:27 near epicenter
  • 22 Mar 2010 00:26:27 standard time in your timezone
Location 66.408N 157.631W
Depth 18 km
Distances
  • 57 km (36 miles) SSW (202 degrees) of Shungnak, AK
  • 65 km (40 miles) SSW (210 degrees) of Kobuk, AK
  • 76 km (47 miles) S (172 degrees) of Ambler, AK
  • 486 km (302 miles) WNW (295 degrees) of Fairbanks, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.6 km; Vertical 0.2 km
Parameters Nph = 43; Dmin = 180.3 km; Rmss = 0.92 seconds; Gp = 133°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID AK 10039484
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Saturday, March 20, 2010

Earthquake: 6.2Mw - NEW IRELAND REGION, P.N.G.

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.2 Mw
Date-Time
  • 20 Mar 2010 14:00:51 UTC
  • 21 Mar 2010 00:00:51 near epicenter
  • 20 Mar 2010 06:00:51 standard time in your timezone
Location 3.380S 152.231E
Depth 423 km
Distances
  • 93 km (58 miles) N (3 degrees) of Rabaul, New Britain, PNG
  • 183 km (114 miles) ESE (120 degrees) of Kavieng, New Ireland, PNG
  • 436 km (271 miles) NE (43 degrees) of Kandrian, New Britain, PNG
  • 690 km (429 miles) ENE (57 degrees) of Lae, New Guinea, PNG
  • 876 km (544 miles) NE (40 degrees) of PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 6.0 km; Vertical 19.5 km
Parameters Nph = 228; Dmin = 870.5 km; Rmss = 0.66 seconds; Gp = 28°
M-type = Mw; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010ubaw ***This event supersedes event AT00909365.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Friday, March 19, 2010

SMFD SAR: Search called off for Pacifica Beach swimmer

 Rescuers in California have called off their search for a man reported missing after swimming near Pacifica Beach Pier.

Pacifica, CA, United States (AHN) - Rescuers in California have called off their search for a man reported missing after swimming near Pacifica Beach Pier.
The Coast Guard said it received a report from the San Mateo Fire Department about 2:30 p.m. on Thursday about the missing swimmer.
The man, whose identity is being withheld while his family is notified, is believed to have entered the water with two other people. The three individuals were approximately 500 yards south of the pier.
Rescuers suspended their efforts after searching more than 45 square miles along the shoreline for six hours. They were assisted by local law enforcement units.
Witnesses made the call to the fire department, according to reports. The companions of the missing swimmer contacted authorities as the search was being conducted.

Not your fathers cop car: 365 horsepower, twin-turbo V-6 Taurus-based model

Ford recently unveiled its replacement for the Crown-Victoria-based Police Interceptor 
----------------------------------------
 Ford Police Interceptor
Ford Police Interceptor exterior police package
The next time you’re pulled over for speeding, you might be surprised by what you see in the rear-view. Ford recently unveiled its replacement for the Crown-Victoria-based Police Interceptor -- and it’s a Taurus.

“Ford first introduced its police package in 1950 and today the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is the industry leader,” explains Jalopnik. “The automaker's dominated the streets to the point that over the last five years, Ford's controlled more than 70% of the patrol cars sold. … Unfortunately, the Crown Vic's Panther-platform's getting a little long in the tooth — it hasn't seen a redesign in over 15 years.”

So out goes the Crown Vic and in comes the Taurus. “To develop the all-new Police Interceptor, Ford engineers worked hand-in-hand with Ford’s Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, which provided input on key vehicle attributes such as safety, performance, durability, driver comfort and functionality,” writes Ford.
More from U.S. News & World Report

» Best Ford Deals for March

» Cars Cops Love to Ticket

While the new Police Interceptor is based on the 2010 Ford Taurus, the changes are significant.

According to Cars.com, “Police departments across the country won’t be piloting just any Taurus off dealership lots. Ford says approximately 90 percent of the interior has been redesigned for police use.” Unique features include front seats with anti-stab plates to protect officers from violent criminals and vinyl rear seats to make cleaning up after messy ones easier.

 Ford Police Interceptor
Ford Police Interceptor interior
That’s not all. USA Today reports: “The Taurus-based model will keep the Police Interceptor name but offer just two 3.5-liter V-6 engines, no big V-8s, as in the Crown Vic. Ford boasts that the standard version will be 25% more fuel efficient than the current standard V-8. And the version with two turbochargers, what Ford calls EcoBoost, will deliver 365 horsepower, 115 more than the standard Crown Vic.” The 365-horsepower V6 is the same found in the performance-tuned Taurus SHO. An optional all-wheel drive system will also be available.

The result is a better-performing police car. “Ford’s new police car can endure a rear-end crash at 75 m.p.h., easily jump curbs and accelerate twice as fast as Ford's outgoing iconic Crown Victoria Police Interceptor,” says the Detroit Free Press.

However, the competition is tough. “The Taurus-based cop car will have to compete against the Dodge Charger cruiser, which looks good and is plenty fast with the available Hemi, and the Chevrolet Caprice, another rear-driver which is pretty much a Pontiac G8 in all but name (and civilian availability),” writes Edmunds.

Ford will cease production on the old Police Interceptor in late 2011 and begin introducing the new Taurus-based model in 2012.

If you're in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year's best cars as well as this month's best car deals.

Source: Yahoo.com/autos - Article Link

San Diego County: NO BURN DAY declared by CAL FIRE


 California Fire season  resumes after recent rains -Due to current weather conditions CAL FIRE San Diego (MVU) has issued a no burn proclamation in the county today.


Source: CAL FIRE San Diego twitter @CALFIRESANDIEGO

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Earthquake: 4.0Mb - OFF COAST OF OREGON

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.0 Mb
Date-Time
  • 18 Mar 2010 07:16:22 UTC
  • 17 Mar 2010 22:16:22 near epicenter
  • 17 Mar 2010 23:16:22 standard time in your timezone
Location 44.212N 129.601W
Depth 10 km
Distances
  • 435 km (270 miles) WNW (288 degrees) of Bandon, OR
  • 436 km (271 miles) WNW (285 degrees) of Barview, OR
  • 438 km (272 miles) W (270 degrees) of Yachats, OR
  • 517 km (321 miles) NW (304 degrees) of Crescent City, CA
  • 567 km (353 miles) WSW (258 degrees) of Portland, OR
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 34.2 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 26; Dmin = 539.9 km; Rmss = 1.73 seconds; Gp = 280°
M-type = Mb; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010tzar
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

San Bernardino City Fire Press Release

San Bernardino City Fire Press Release

Link to San Bernardino City Fire Department

S.U.V. plummets 65 feet off 330 over pass, lands on car below on East bound I-210

Posted: 17 Mar 2010 10:32 AM PDT

Contact:Tom Rubio

Contact Number: 909-384-5408 Cell 909-229-5655

Date: March 16, 2010

Location: East Bound I-210 freeway. 330 transition to I-210

Time of the call: 3:47 P.M.

First SBFD unit on the scene: 3:57

Fire under Control: No fire

Number of Firefighters: 14 Number of Ambulances: 4

Number of fire units: 4 San Bernardino. 1 San Manuel. 2 CAL-FIRE

Injuries: 4

Fatalities: 0

Property Loss/Damage: 2 vehicles damaged

Property Saved: N/A

Additional information: When SBFD units arrived they found a late model SUV and a late model coupe with extensive exterior damage. According to CHP, the female driver of the SUV with two toddlers inside plummeted 65 feet off the 330 transition onto the I-210 East bound freeway, landing on the roof of a late model coupe. The woman in the SUV had serious injuries and had to be extricated by firefighters. The two toddlers with minor injuries, were already outside the SUV when fire units arrived, extricated by bystanders. The male driver of the coupe was already outside his vehicle with minor injuries. The woman, male and two toddlers were transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center. East Bound I-210 traffic was backed up for several miles.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Brand New News: California Fire News Forum - Be the first to join!

CALIFORNIA FIRE AND DISASTER INFORMATION, NEWS, AND DISCUSSION FORUM-
The CFN Fire Forum will be the place to discuss California Fire Fighting, Large California Public Safety Incidents, Wildland Fires, and topics of general firefighting interest.

CAL FIRE news, Fire & EMS Department News, Fire Department Links, Firefighter Jobs & 
Information forum.


Maintenance Note:: Launched at 0845hrs 03-16-10 -  FORUM PAGE E STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION - Further improvements to be made 1. Remove sidebar. 2. Reduce header clutter. 3. seduce administrative help

Firefighter License Plate Application



ATTENTION ACTIVE and RETIRED
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Proud of your Profession? Then show it!


Firefighter License Plates are Hotter than Ever! Do you have yours?
Call (800) 890-3213 and order your firefighter license plates today!

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Earthquake Ml 4.3 NORTHERN ALASKA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.3 Ml
Date-Time
  • 16 Mar 2010 12:23:14 UTC
  • 16 Mar 2010 04:23:14 near epicenter
  • 16 Mar 2010 04:23:14 standard time in your timezone
Location 65.996N 150.163W
Depth 0 km
Distances
  • 48 km (30 miles) W (269 degrees) of Stevens Village, AK
  • 54 km (34 miles) N (359 degrees) of Rampart, AK
  • 93 km (58 miles) NW (308 degrees) of Livengood, AK
  • 171 km (106 miles) NW (320 degrees) of Fairbanks, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.4 km; Vertical 0.1 km
Parameters Nph = 36; Dmin = 25.0 km; Rmss = 1.16 seconds; Gp = 72°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID AK 10038639
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Earthquake: 4.4 Ml - GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA, CALIF.

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.4 Ml
Date-Time
  • 16 Mar 2010 11:04:00 UTC
  • 16 Mar 2010 04:04:00 near epicenter
  • 16 Mar 2010 03:04:00 standard time in your timezone
Location 33.998N 118.072W
Depth 18 km
Distances
  • 2 km (1 miles) ENE (58 degrees) of Pico Rivera, CA
  • 4 km (3 miles) ESE (115 degrees) of Montebello, CA
  • 4 km (3 miles) SSW (206 degrees) of Whittier Narrows Rec. Area, CA
  • 9 km (5 miles) NE (39 degrees) of Downey, CA
  • 17 km (11 miles) ESE (112 degrees) of Los Angeles Civic Center, CA
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.4 km; Vertical 0.9 km
Parameters Nph = 122; Dmin = 5.0 km; Rmss = 0.37 seconds; Gp = 25°
M-type = Ml; Version = 2
Event ID CI 14601172
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
CISN Southern California Management Center Caltech Seismological Laboratory U.S. Geological Survey http://www.cisn.org/scmc.html
Disclaimer

Monday, March 15, 2010

Earthquake: 4.1 Ml - NORTHERN ALASKA

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.1 Ml
Date-Time
  • 15 Mar 2010 22:12:56 UTC
  • 15 Mar 2010 14:12:56 near epicenter
  • 15 Mar 2010 14:12:56 standard time in your timezone
Location 65.938N 150.220W
Depth 20 km
Distances
  • 48 km (30 miles) N (356 degrees) of Rampart, AK
  • 51 km (32 miles) W (262 degrees) of Stevens Village, AK
  • 91 km (57 miles) NW (304 degrees) of Livengood, AK
  • 168 km (104 miles) NW (318 degrees) of Fairbanks, AK
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 0.6 km; Vertical 0.2 km
Parameters Nph = 18; Dmin = 23.9 km; Rmss = 0.38 seconds; Gp = 154°
M-type = Ml; Version = 1
Event ID AK 10038456
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
Alaska Earthquake Information Center Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks http://www.aeic.alaska.edu
Disclaimer

Earthquake: 4.6 Mb - OFF COAST OF OREGON

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 4.6 Mb
Date-Time
  • 15 Mar 2010 12:37:51 UTC
  • 15 Mar 2010 03:37:51 near epicenter
  • 15 Mar 2010 04:37:51 standard time in your timezone
Location 44.204N 129.262W
Depth 10 km
Distances
  • 408 km (254 miles) WNW (289 degrees) of Bandon, OR
  • 409 km (254 miles) WNW (285 degrees) of Barview, OR
  • 411 km (255 miles) W (270 degrees) of Yachats, OR
  • 491 km (305 miles) W (274 degrees) of Eugene, OR
  • 542 km (337 miles) WSW (257 degrees) of Portland, OR
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 10.3 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 121; Dmin = 425.5 km; Rmss = 1.45 seconds; Gp = 187°
M-type = Mb; Version = 7
Event ID US 2010twau
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Earthquake: 6.0 Mw - SOUTH INDIAN OCEAN

Globe with Earthquake Location

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.0 Mw
Date-Time
  • 14 Mar 2010 20:33:10 UTC
  • 15 Mar 2010 02:33:10 near epicenter
  • 14 Mar 2010 12:33:10 standard time in your timezone
Location 2.763S 83.677E
Depth 10 km
Distances
  • 1156 km (719 miles) SSE (158 degrees) of COLOMBO, Sri Lanka
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 8.5 km; Vertical
Parameters Nph = 95; Dmin = 999.9 km; Rmss = 0.86 seconds; Gp = 50°
M-type = Mw; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010tvb3 ***This event supersedes event AT00859879.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

CCFPD: 4 Alarms at Walnut Creek Lumber Yard structure fire


WALNUT CREEK — A four-alarm fire ravaged Piedmont Lumber on Saturday, slowing adjacent highway traffic and shutting down blocks of other local businesses.By 6 p.m., firefighters had extinguished most of the flames and only wisps of smoke rose from the business at 2860 North Main St., not far from Interstate 680 and the Pleasant Hill border.
Crews were expected to remain on-site throughout the night, checking for hot spots, said John Ross, interim chief of Contra Costa Fire Protection District.
The fire destroyed a warehouse at the rear of the property and leveled a retail store, but there were no injuries. Investigators believe the fire originated somewhere between the warehouse and the store, said Ross, adding that damage estimates should be available today.
The investigation is continuing.
As flames leaped from the roof and through the front entrance of the store, onlookers could hear a series of rapid explosions as the fire reached cans of paint and other flammables.
RAW Video:


4 Alarms at East Bay Lumber Yard
Thick, black smoke could be seen as far away as Oakland and Livermore, and the billowing plumes initially slowed traffic on I-680 to a crawl in both directions. Emergency personnel closed nearby streets to traffic.
A freeway motorist reported the emergency at 1:44 p.m., with more cell phone calls following from other area drivers.
Upon arrival, responders immediately declared a two-alarm fire, said Ross, whose headquarters is one mile from the business.
Because the lumberyard was closed, firefighters initially evacuated the adjoining U.S. Bank branch at North Main Street and Treat Boulevard as well as a nearby animal boarding facility, and then turned their hoses on the buildings to prevent them from catching fire.
Pets staying at North Main Pet Lodge all were transported to the county's animal shelter in Martinez, Ross said.
None of those evacuated was injured, and although a few people had minor cases of
smoke inhalation they refused medical attention, the interim chief said.Emergency crews closed off numerous streets surrounding the lumberyard and at one point firefighters atop four cranes were spraying water simultaneously.
Walnut Creek limousine driver Jon McHenry was filling up his car at a Chevron gas station opposite the lumberyard when he saw white smoke followed by a loud explosion.
"That's when the flames really started going," he said.
Cliff Deutscher, who also heard the boom from his backyard about a quarter-mile away, said the fire had been going for quite a while.
At the fire's peak, about 70 personnel were at the scene, including crews from San Ramon Valley Fire and Moraga-Orinda Fire districts as well as hazardous materials teams.

Source: Contra Costa Times Article - Link

Sunday is time to change the clocks and smoke alarm batteries

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CHANGE YOUR CLOCK – CHANGE YOUR BATTERY!
CALIFORNIA FIRE NEWS wants to remind everyone to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors this weekend when you set your clocks forward on Sun. (March 14) in observance of Daylight Saving Time.
Here’s some more tips for you too:
  • Test smoke detectors once a month
  • Replace batteries in smoke detectors twice a year
  • Don’t disable smoke alarms, even temporarily
  • Vacuum regularly or dust smoke detectors to keep them working properly
  • Replace smoke detectors every 10 years
  • Practice fire drills so everyone in the family knows what to do if the smoke detector goes off.
These simple steps will help ensure that you and your family will have the best chance of surviving if fire should strike.

Earthquake: (Mw 6.6) NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN 37.8 141.6 (2c449)

Globe with Earthquake Location

6.6 Mw - NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.6 Mw
Date-Time
  • 14 Mar 2010 08:08:03 UTC
  • 14 Mar 2010 17:08:03 near epicenter
  • 14 Mar 2010 00:08:03 standard time in your timezone
Location 37.759N 141.562E
Depth 26 km
Distances
  • 81 km (50 miles) SE (132 degrees) of Sendai, Honshu, Japan
  • 96 km (60 miles) E (88 degrees) of Fukushima, Honshu, Japan
  • 97 km (60 miles) NE (37 degrees) of Iwaki, Honshu, Japan
  • 283 km (176 miles) NE (34 degrees) of TOKYO, Japan
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 7.7 km; Vertical 22.6 km
Parameters Nph = 86; Dmin = 327.6 km; Rmss = 1.00 seconds; Gp = 36°
M-type = Mw; Version = 7
Event ID US 2010tva3 ***This event supersedes event AT00855408.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Earthquake: (Mb 6.4) KEPULAUAN OBI, INDONESIA

Globe with Earthquake Location

6.4 Mb - KEPULAUAN OBI, INDONESIA

Preliminary Earthquake Report
Magnitude 6.4 Mb
Date-Time
  • 14 Mar 2010 00:57:45 UTC
  • 14 Mar 2010 09:57:45 near epicenter
  • 13 Mar 2010 16:57:45 standard time in your timezone
Location 1.710S 128.051E
Depth 52 km
Distances
  • 220 km (137 miles) N (357 degrees) of Ambon, Moluccas, Indonesia
  • 289 km (179 miles) SSE (165 degrees) of Ternate, Moluccas, Indonesia
  • 372 km (231 miles) WSW (255 degrees) of Sorong, Irian Jaya, Indonesia
  • 812 km (504 miles) NNE (20 degrees) of DILI, East Timor
Location Uncertainty Horizontal: 14.1 km; Vertical 9.2 km
Parameters Nph = 115; Dmin = 285.0 km; Rmss = 1.09 seconds; Gp = 46°
M-type = Mb; Version = 6
Event ID US 2010tvac ***This event supersedes event AT00852826.
For updates, maps, and technical information, see: Event Page or USGS Earthquake Hazards Program
National Earthquake Information Center U.S. Geological Survey http://neic.usgs.gov/
Disclaimer

NASCAR: Last Day To Vote In Support of the Wildland Firefighter Foundation

Last Day To Vote In Support of the Wildland Firefighter Foundation NASCAR Design contest.


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HUD Secretary announced federal disaster assistance to counties in California

Foreclosure protection offered to displaced families in six counties - Disaster declaration for Calaveras, Imperial, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Siskiyou Counties will speed federal disaster assistance.

WASHINGTON, DC - March 11, 2010 - (RealEstateRama) — U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced HUD will speed federal disaster assistance to counties in California and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes following severe storms, flooding, debris and mud flows during January and February.

On Monday, President Obama issued a disaster declaration for Calaveras, Imperial, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Siskiyou Counties. The President’s declaration allows HUD to offer foreclosure relief and other assistance to certain families living in this county.
“Families who may have been forced from their homes need to know that help is available to begin the rebuilding process,” said Donovan. “Whether it’s foreclosure relief for FHA-insured families or helping these counties to recover, HUD stands ready to help in any way we can.”
HUD is:
  • Offering the State of California the ability to re-allocate existing federal resources toward disaster relief LINK - HUD’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME programs give the State the flexibility to redirect millions of dollars to address critical needs, including housing and services for flood victims. HUD is currently contacting State and local officials to explore streamlining the Department’s CDBG and HOME programs in order to expedite the repair and replacement of damaged housing;
  • Granting immediate foreclosure relief - HUD granted a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures and forbearance on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured home mortgages;
  • Making mortgage insurance available - HUD’s Section 203(h) program provides FHA insurance to disaster victims who have lost their homes and are facing the daunting task of rebuilding or buying another home. Borrowers from participating FHA-approved lenders are eligible for 100 percent financing, including closing costs;
  • Making insurance available for both mortgages and home rehabilitation - HUD’s Section 203(k) loan program enables those who have lost their homes to finance the purchase or refinance of a house along with its repair through a single mortgage. It also allows homeowners who have damaged houses to finance the rehabilitation of their existing single-family home; and
  • Offering Section 108 loan guarantee assistance - HUD will offer state and local governments federally guaranteed loans for housing rehabilitation, economic development and repair of public infrastructure. For more information about these and other HUD programs designed to assist disaster victims, visit HUD’s website.
###
HUD is the nation’s housing agency committed to sustaining homeownership; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development ad enforces the nation’s fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov

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****REMINDER**** Every fire has the ability to be catastrophic. The wildland fire management environment has profoundly changed. Growing numbers of communities, across the nation, are experiencing longer fire seasons; more frequent, bigger, and more severe, fires are a real threat. Be careful with all campfires and equipment.

"I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts, and beer." --Abraham Lincoln

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