This month brings a somber memory of the events eight years ago on September 11, 2001. As fire fighters we honor the 343 of our brothers and sisters from the FDNY who gave all they could that grave day. The nearly 3000 Americans who lost their lives in New York, at the Pentagon and the brave passengers of United Airlines Flight 93 that went down in Pennsylvania will never be forgotten.

On a lighter note, the station three boys from all three shifts helped out on a mercury spill at an apartment complex on the south side of town earlier this month that took four days to assess and contain. This incident was a good example of a multi agency event and how such incidents should be operated. The Department of Environmental Quality responded and called in a highly skilled team with the United States Environmental Protection Agency from Washington state to help analyze the situation. The Region 5 hazmat team, which is based in the Magic Valley, responded and assisted with containment and got some valuable experience in the process working with the very talented EPA team. The Health department was also there to answer questions and distribute important information about mercury and the harm it can cause, to nearby residents. At the reins, Battalion Chiefs Ron Aguirre and Brian Cunningham both did an excellent job as Incident Commanders. Good team work by all made for a safe ending to an unfortunate event.

As the weather changes and the mornings get that cold snap, (no, really, colder weather is coming.....someday) its time to get our furnaces and fireplaces ready for the coming months. Remember to change your furnace filters and keep your vents clear, and if need be call an HVAC service to come and get your furnace in proper working order. If you heat your house with wood, don't forget to clean out your ashes, do a little chimney sweeping and make sure your damper opens and closes completely. A properly running furnace or fireplace will make for a safe, warm, and cozy home this winter.

That's it for this month, until next time, stay safe and don't forget to wave to the guys in the BRT.

Tom Bloxham