[Scan-DC] PA ff dies during rescue

Mon, 29 Sep 2003 07:06:48 EDT

From: "BillyG" <[email protected]>
To: [email protected]
Date: 28 Sep 2003 03:34:00 -0000
Subject: PA FF DIES During Ocean Rescue (The Secret list)
Message-ID: <[email protected]>

Hey...

This afternoon (Saturday, September 27, 2003) Firefighter Brian Firkal,
27, from Nesquehoning, Pa. tragically lost his life in Ocean City,
Maryland while rescuing three civilians. Ocean City was hit today by
strong winds, heavy surf and Ocean City firefighters responded to
numerous surf rescues throughout the day... with numerous lives saved.

At approximately 1530 hours, off duty FF Firkal, visiting OC, was at
110th Street and the beach, when he witnessed 3 people in the
water--approximately 100 yards off shore, one being a young male 10 years
old--all in distress. FF Firkal was on the beach w/his wife, and went
into the ocean to attempt the rescue of the civilians. At the same time,
someone called 911--reporting the swimmers in distress. 

The Ocean City PD, Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Ocean City
Emergency Services/Paramedics and the Ocean City Beach Patrol (w/limited
off-season staffing via vehicle) responded. Additionally, Command
requested the U.S. Coast Guard-stationed in Ocean City. Command also
requested the Maryland State PD helicopter-which was not available-and
the Delaware State PD helicopter responded in it's place.

All of the 3 original swimmers were saved through the combined efforts,
with FF Firkal as the initial rescuer. Unfortunately, FF Firkal's heroic
efforts cost him his life as he then became a victim in distress and
tragically went under the water during the rescue efforts. He was found
shortly after by the US Coast Guard, was transported by OCEMS, and he
succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

FF Firkal was described as a very active member of the Nesquehoning Hose
Co.#1 in Nesquehoning, PA which is located in Carbon County. He was also
a local teacher. This was information provided to us by the OCVFC.
Updates and additional information will be posted at
www.FirefighterCloseCalls.com 's home page, under NEWS/UPDATES when more
is available.

As always-we offer our deepest heartfelt condolences to the family and
friends of Firefighter Brian Ferkal, and especially his wife who was with
him at the time of his heroic efforts... and his subsequent passing.

Take Care,
BillyG
The Secret List 9-27-03 2330 hours

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