The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center

Name: The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center
Address: 310 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44115, US
Telephone: +12166646312
Price range: $
Rating: 4.9

Home
United States
Cleveland, OH
The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center

Saving History, Saving Lives!
(48)

09/14/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

UNIQUE NE OHIO RIGS

Northeast Ohio has had a number of rigs from builders not seen very often. Here are a few examples. Northfield Village had a 1963 Hahn as Engine 3 (1000/500). Reminderville had a 1956 Blitz Buggy/Chev as Engine 2 (250/350). The builder’s name officially was Army’s Fire Service Co. of Old Forge, NY., named after the owners, the Armstrong brothers. They were active only in the 1950’s. Paint Twp/Winesburg had a 1989 American Eagle/IH front mount pumper as Engine 904 1500/500). American Eagle Fire Co., Gainesville, FL operated from 1986 to 1989 only. Lakeside had a 1947 Darley/Ford as Engine 3 (500/300). Darley focused on small commercial pumpers in the 30’s and 40’s.

Photo 1 – Northfield Village 1963 Howe 1000 500; Photo 2 – Reminderville 1956 Blitz Buggy Chevy 250 350; Photo 3 – Paint Twp/Winesburg 1989 American Eagle IH 1500 500; Photo 4 – Lakeside 1947 Darley Ford 500 300.

09/08/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

PIERCE FIRE APPARATUS

Pierce introduced two less costly models than the Pierce Arrow in the mid 80’s. The tilt-cab Pierce Dash appeared in 1984 and the Lance in 1985. Brookpark was one of the first to acquire a Pierce Dash in 1984 for Engine 3 (1500/500). Niles had a rather unique model in 1991, a 2-door cab rig (1500/500) with an interesting window design. The Pierce Lance with its split-cab was introduced a year later in 1985. Perry Twp (Stark Co.) was one of the first to have a Pierce Lance in 1985 for Engine 31 (1500/500). Ravenna (City) acquired a Lance in 1987 for Engine 154 (1500/500).

Photo 1 – 1984 Pierce Dash Brookpark Engine 3; Photo 2 – 1991 Pierce Dash Niles; Photo 3 – 1985 Pierce Lance Niles Twp.; Photo 4 – 1987 Pierce Lance Ravenna City.

09/05/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSUEM & EDUCATION CENTER
UPCOMING EVENT

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR THIS SUNDAY, SEPT. 10TH

This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The Museum will be holding a Remembrance Ceremony on this Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 11:00 am on the plaza in front of the Museum. The ceremony will be put on with the help of the Cleveland Fire Department’s Honor Guard. Our guest speaker will be Chief Anthony Luke, Cleveland Division of Fire and Joseph Mason, Retired Captain of the Cleveland Division of Fire will be serving as Chaplain.

We hope your will come down and join us as we honor and remember all those who lost their lives that day.

09/02/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

APPARATUS DAY SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, SEPT. 16, 2023

Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 is Apparatus Day at the Museum! So, mark your calendars and come down. Join us from 10am – 2pm. The Museum is located at 310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH just across from Progressive Field. A mix of fire trucks by various manufacturers restored and original will be on display on the plaza in front of the Museum. There will also be hotdogs, popcorn and beverages to enjoy while looking at these beautiful pieces of firefighting history. Activities for the children as well. Our current exhibit featuring the horse drawn era of firefighting is on display in the main gallery. Museum tours will be available. Standard admission rates apply. A fun day for the whole family.

09/01/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

TWO CLASSIC RIGS FROM ELYRIA

Two classic rigs from Elyria. A 1937 American LaFrance 500 Series open cab 85ft TDA. A 1971 Pierce/Oshkosh 85ft Snorkel. Unknown if there was another ladder truck in Elyria in the years between these two rigs.

08/24/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

SEAGRAVES IN LORAIN

This 1978 photo shows Lorain’s 1937 Seagrave TDA for sale alongside the main road into Lorain. Wonder what happened to it? Looked in pretty good shape! Lorain had a yellow Anniversary Series Seagrave 1956 1000/150). Unknown if this was a repaint or original delivery color and is believed to be the only yellow rig for Lorain except for a brush truck.

Photo 1 – Lorian 1937 Seagrave 100 taken in 1978; Photo 2 – Lorain 1956 Seagrave 1000 500 E71.

08/12/2023

DALMATIAN CELEBRATION TODAY AT

The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center
Please come join us today! The Museum is celebrating the Dalmatian, the Official Firehouse Dog, on the Plaza in front of the Museum, this Saturday, August 12th from 10am – 2pm. The Western Reserve Dalmatian Club will help us celebrate with lots of Dalmatians.

The use of Dalmatians as Firehouse dogs dates back more than 200 years. Dalmatians would run alongside the horse drawn fire wagons to defend the horses against other animals. They would also keep the horses calm as they approached the fire and would stand guard near the wagon to ensure no one would steal the horses, their belongings or equipment.

Dalmatians are welcome to this event and to partake in our doggie splash pool and doggie treats. There will be treats for humans as well, hotdogs, popcorn and cold beverages. There will be games and activities for the kids as well as fire safety lectures. If you bring your Dalmatian with you, it will entitle you to (1) free admission to the Museum. It should be dog gone fun and we hope to see you there!

08/10/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

EARLY SUTPHEN APPARATUS

Sutphen early custom apparatus were built with components from others including Duplex, PemFab and TCM (Cincinnati Cab) until Sutphen started building their own cabs in the early 80’s. Some examples were Independence 1973 Sutphen/TCM 1250/500 with overhead ladder rack; Parma Heights 1973 Sutphen/PemFab 1250/500; Cuyahoga Heights (1973 Sutphen/TCM 1250/500: Perkins Twp (1981 Sutphen/Duplex 1250/500.

Photo 1 – 1973 Independence Sutphen 1250GPM 12-3-76; Photo 2 – 1973 Parma Hts. Sutphen 1250 500; Photo 3 – Cuyahoga Hts 1973 Sutphen 1250 500; Photo 4 -1981 Perkins Twp. Sutphen/Duplex 1250 500.

08/09/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

ANNUAL LUAU FUNDRAISER IS ALMOST TWO WEEKS AWAY

Mark your calendars and join us Sunday, August 20, 2023, 3:00 - 7:00 PM for the Museum’s fifth Annual Luau Fundraiser. This event will be held again on the Veranda at Lago Custom Events in a tented venue next to the Aloft Hotel in on a beautifully designed patio nestled between two buildings situated above the Flats with breathtaking views of the lakefront.

A ticket entitles you to partake in a lavish Luau buffet, plus complimentary wine, beer and tropical punch. A local DJ will entertain us with variety of musical selections. Tickets may be purchased in advance at $55.00 per individual, $100.00 per couple or a table of 10 for $500.00 and will include $5.00 worth of free Chinese Raffle tickets per person.

Advance purchase is requested as seating is limited. Tickets purchased at the door will not include the Raffle tickets. Included will be various games of chance, a 50/50 Raffle, a Chinese Raffle, a Wine Toss, a Tito's Toss as well as a Silent Auction. Special valet parking will be available through the Aloft Hotel for a special rate of $7.00. Just mention Museum Luau Fundraiser.

This is our major fundraiser for the year and we hope everyone will turn out to support this fun event. All proceeds will go towards renovation, future exhibits and programming. The wonderful location and support provided through the generosity of Lago through the Salerno group and Board Member, Andrew Czarzasty is gratefully appreciated.

Tickets may be purchased on our website at www.wrfmc.com or by calling the Museum, 216-664-6312 (Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM).

Hope to see you there!

We hope to see you there!

08/08/2023

DALMATIAN CELEBRATION SCHEDULED FOR THIS SATURDAY

Please come join us! The Museum is celebrating the Dalmatian, the Official Firehouse Dog, on the Plaza in front of the Museum, this Saturday, August 12th from 10am – 2pm. The Western Reserve Dalmatian Club will be joining us with lots of Dalmatians to help commemorate this special occasion.

The use of Dalmatians as the Firehouse dog dates back more than 200 years. Dalmatians would run alongside the horse drawn fire wagons to defend the horses against other animals. They would also keep the horses calm as they approached the fire and would stand guard near the wagon to ensure no one would steal the horses, their belongings or equipment.

Dalmatians are welcome to this event. So, if you own one bring it down to partake in our doggie splash pool and scrumptious doggie treats. There will be treats for humans as well, hotdogs, popcorn and cold beverages. We have games and activities for the kids as well as fire safety lectures. If you bring your Dalmatian with you, it will entitle you to (1) free admission to the Museum. It should be dog gone fun and we hope to see you there!

07/31/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

ANNUAL LUAU FUNDRAISER SUNDAY, AUGUST 20th

Mark your calendars and join us Sunday, August 20, 2023, 3:00 - 7:00 PM for the Museum’s fifth Annual Hawaiian Luau Fundraiser. This event will once again be held on the Veranda at Lago Custom Events in a tented venue next to the Aloft Hotel in on a beautiful patio nestled between two buildings situated above the Flats with breathtaking views of the lakefront.

A ticket includes a lavish Luau buffet, complimentary wine, beer and tropical punch. Enjoy a variety of musical selections provided by a local DJ. Tickets may be purchased in advance at $55.00 per individual, $100.00 per couple and will include $5.00 worth of free Chinese Raffle tickets per person. Tables for ten people may also be purchased for $500.00.

Advance purchase is requested as seating is limited. Included will be various games of chance, a 50/50 Raffle, a Chinese Raffle, Wine Toss, Spirit Toss and Silent Auction. Special valet parking will be available through the Aloft Hotel for $7.00.

This is our major fundraiser for the year and we hope everyone will turn out to support this fun event. All proceeds will go toward renovation, future exhibits and programming. The wonderful location and support provided through the generosity of Lago Custom Events through the Salerno group and Board Member Andrew Czarzasty is gratefully appreciated.

Tickets may be purchased on our website at www.wrfmc.com or by calling the Museum, 216-664-6312 (Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM).

We hope to see you there!

07/29/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
UPCOMING EVENT

APPARATUS DAY HAS BEEN RE-SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, SEPT. 16, 2023

Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023 is Apparatus Day at the Museum! So, mark your calendars and come down. Join us from 10am – 2pm. The Museum is located at 310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH just across from Progressive Field. A mix of fire trucks by various manufacturers restored and original will be on display on the plaza in front of the Museum. There will also be hotdogs, popcorn and beverages to enjoy while looking at these beautiful pieces of firefighting history. Activities for the children as well. Our current exhibit features turn of the 19th century firefighting with Steamers, Hose Wagons & Ladder Trucks. Museum tours will be available. Standard admission rates apply. A fun day for the whole family.

07/28/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

ALF AEROCHIEF ARTICULATING PLATFORMS IN NE OHIO

Other American LaFrance AeroChief 90-ft articulating platforms in northeast Ohio: 1971 Strongsville (900 Series quint 1000/150); 1972 Painesville (1000 Series working at downtown fire in 1978); 1976 Parma (1000 Series quint 1500/300). The AeroChief in Hartville originally saw service in the Chicago suburb of Oak Park (1969 1500/300). The only AeroChiefs in our archives. Were there any others in the area? Possibly Youngstown?

Photo 1 – Strongsville 1971 ALF AeroChief 90ft.; Photo 2 – Painesville 1972 AeroChief Working 1978; Photo 3 – 1976 AKF AeroChief 90ft. Quint; Photo 4 – Hartville 1969 ALF AeroChief at Hose Test

07/21/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

AMERICAN LAFRANCE INTRDUCES THE PIONEER LINE

American LaFrance introduced the economy, no-frills Pioneer apparatus line in 1964 with TCM (Cincinnati) cabs and a Chrysler V-8 engine. The Pioneer I, II and III were distinguished by their head lights. The Pioneer IV was a short-lived series with a modified cab from Spartan, With ALF in financial difficulties, they made garbage trucks with the Pioneer IV cab. Examples of each include Pio I Barberton (1971 1000/500); Pio II Beachwood (1975 1500/500); Pio III Warren (1978 1000/500); Pio IV Pepper Pike (1979 1250/500). The Pio IV was the Century Series apparatus from the cab back. Cleveland had a fleet of ALF Pioneer garbage trucks.

Photo 1 – Barberton 1971 ALF PIO I 1000 500; Photo 2 – 1975 ALF PIO II 1500 500; Photo 3 – Warren, OH LAF PIO III 1000 500, 5-4-1979;Photo 4 - Pepper Pike, OH 1979 PIO IV 1250 500; Photo 5 – ALF CLEV PIO Garbage Truck

07/14/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

PIRSCH USES SUTPHEN AS A DEALER

Pirsch used Sutphen as a dealer in Ohio to meet some state bidding requirements. Sutphen supplied the cab and finished the aerial to meet the specs. The Pirsch nameplate appeared on the front of the cab except for the 1977 85ft aerial that had a Sutphen nameplate. The truck was delivered with “Ladder 6” on the front although AFD never had a Ladder 6. The label was removed and the rig was assigned to Ladder 5 at Station 13.

07/07/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

AKRON FD RETURNS TO CUSTOM FIRE APPARATUS

Akron Fire Department returned to custom fire apparatus in 1972 with the purchase of a Ward LaFrance 1000/500 pumper. It was the first non-red apparatus for AFD using WLF’s new “safety” lime-yellow. WLF was the leader in promoting the new color for apparatus after a university study by State University of New York that claimed the color could be best seen in all weather conditions. The study was commissioned by WLF! That color choice by departments around the country became quite popular until the turn of the century when many of the yellow rigs ripened and turned red.

06/30/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER

IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT TOMORROW’S EVENT

APPARATUS DAY WHICH WAS SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, JULY 1st HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Due to impending bad weather coming our way tomorrow, Apparatus Day has been cancelled. Unfortunately, it is too risky for owners to bring these beautifully restored vehicles out as they could risk severe damage to their trucks. Apparatus Day, will be rescheduled for another date in the near future. When we do it will be posted on our website and posted on facebook. Again, we are sorry for the inconvenience and we hope to see you soon.

06/29/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

AKRON CHANGES TO COMMERCIAL CHASSIS

Akron changed to commercial chassis apparatus in 1965 with this Pirsch/GMC 1000/500 pumper for Engine 1. It had some interesting custom body work on the cab to preserve the Pirsch look. That was followed by two Ward LaFrance/Ford pumpers in 1969 (Engine 11 and 13)and another in 1970 (Engine 5), all 1000/500 units. Akron became a strong supporter of “Rapid Water” firefighting technology in the late 60’s and early 70’s installing the system on pumpers.

Photo 1 – 1965 Pirsch GMC 1000; Photo 2 – 1969 WLF Ford 1000 500.

06/27/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

APPARATUS DAY SET FOR THIS SATURDAY, JULY 1, 2023

Saturday, July 1, 2023 is Apparatus Day at the Museum! So, mark your calendars and come down and join us from 10am – 2pm. The Museum is located at 310 Carnegie Ave, Cleveland, OH across from Progressive Field. There will be a mix of fire trucks by various manufacturers restored and original on display on the front plaza in front of the Museum. Hotdogs, popcorn and beverages to enjoy while you look at these beautiful pieces of firefighting history. Activities for the children as well. Our current exhibit features turn of the 19th Century Firefighting with Steamers, Hose Wagons & Ladder Trucks. Museum tours will be available. Standard admission rates apply. A fun day for the whole family.

Hope to see you there!

06/23/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

CFD NEW MOBILE COMMAND CENTER

On May 27, 1992 CFD placed a new mobile command center in service designated as 629 replacing a modified Bluebird bus. The Southern Coach/Spartan rig was operated by Alarm Office personnel responding to 3-3-3 alarm fires or greater and was housed at Station 4, 1 and 10 over the years. Alarm Office personnel would go to that station to pick up 629 and take it to the location. The Command Center is seen here two days after being placed in service at a a3-3-3 alarm fire at 2470 E. 93rd St. In 2018 the Public Safety Department made the decision to have a single command post and the Police took over operations of incident command requirements. “Car 629” was stripped of all equipment and converted to a rehab vehicle until 2022 when it was scrapped. Southern Coach of Ocala, FL built fire apparatus from 1982 to 1998 when it was acquired by the new American LaFrance to build body components.

Photo 1 – CFD 629 1991 Southern Coach Spartan Command Post at Station 28; Photo -2 CFD 629 Field Command modified as Rehab Unit 1991 Southern Coach Spartan; Photo 3 – 1992 Mobile Command at 3-3-3

06/08/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

CFD GRUMMAN PUMPER

Grumman sold only one conventional pumper (1500/500) to CFD in 1990 that went to Engine 2. The Grumman Panther model line of apparatus was built on HME chassis, introduced in 1988 and was produced until the company closed in 1992. Engine 2 became Engine 2/21 when the fireboat company Engine 21 was decommissioned in May 1999. They used the Grumman until 2002 when it was replaced by a new Luverne/Spartan pumper. The Grumman became spare pumper X-1 at Station 6 until 2006 when it was scrapped.

06/01/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

CFD REAR MOUNT AERIALS

CFD purchased three long rear mount aerials in 1990. The 121-ft Grumman AerialCat was Cleveland’s longest ladders in department history and were assigned to Ladder 1, 4 and 17. All were gone by 2006. They were huge weighing in at over 85,000-lbs and introduced by Grumman in 1989 with the longest pre-piped waterway in the industry. Built on Duplex chassis, the ladder was developed from the ladder technology of Steeldraulics. Streeldraulics of Lancaster, PA built fire apparatus from 19809 to 1987 with San Francisco their major customer. Grumman closed in 1992 and KME acquired the ladder line.

Photo – 1990 Grumman Lad 17 121ft RM

05/06/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
EDUCATIONAL SAFETY SNIPPET

SAFETY TIPS FOR SPRING CLEANING

As the weather continually gets warmer and people power up their lawnmowers, rake up debris and start projects to get their homes and yards ready for the warmer months ahead, below are tips to minimize the risk of fires and associated hazards:

1. Properly use and store gasoline – Use fuel only as a motor fuel. Only store gas in a container that is sold for that purpose away from your house and make sure the container is tightly capped.

2. Carefully dispose of rags with paint and stain – The oils commonly used in oil-based paints and stains release heat as they dry. If the heat is not released in the air as the rags dry, it can build up and cause a fire. So, never leave used rags in a pile, take them outside to dry. Put dirty rags in a tightly covered metal container filled with water a detergent solution to break down the oils.

3. Use and store flammable & combustible liquids with care – These types of liquids should be stored in their tightly capped original containers and never near an open flame. They should never be stored in glass containers. Do not smoke when working with these liquids and if you should spill them on your clothing, remove your clothing and let it dry before laundering.

4. Inspect grills to ensure they’re in good working order – Inspect your grill before use and make sure it’s free of grease and fat build up. Also, clean out any nests, spider webs and debris you may find.

5. Keep debris well away from your home – Every year wildfires burn across the U.S. , and more and more people live in communities where wildfires are a real risk. So, dispose of branches, weeds, leaves, pine needles, and grass clippings that you have out to reduce fuel for fire. Make sure that you also remove flammable materials from your roof and gutters to help prevent embers from igniting your home

6. Clean out your clothes dryer – Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe for your dryer is unrestricted and that the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is in operation. Also move things that can burn away from dryer.

05/04/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

CFD STATION 28 RENAMED STATION 3

Station 28 was renamed Station No. 3 in 1963 when Engine 28 was disbanded and Engine 3 located to 310 Carnegie Ave. The name remained until 1975 when Engine 1 and Ladder 1 moved into the station. It then became Station No. 1. Engine 3 had a 1951 Anniversary Series Seagrave Model 900B-1250 1250gpm, 2-stage pump. Rescue 1 was running with a 1967 Sutphen/GMC walk-in squad in this 1969 photo.

04/27/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

HI-RANGER ARTICULATING PLATFORMS

The Hi-Ranger articulating platforms were limited in Northeast Ohio. In addition to the two 1964’s in Cleveland (75-ft), the only others believed to exist were the Akron 1971 85ft platform and 1968 85ft Mentor rigs. None of these had pumps. All Hi Ranger platforms were built by Mobile Aerial Towers, Inc. of Ft. Wayne from 1959 to 1987. Most were built on WLF chassis, Van-Pelt for west coast departments and commercial truck chassis. A total of 90 platforms were built, their first two were for Chicago in 1959. Mobile Aerial Towers first built elevating platforms for the utility industry and the military.

Photo 1 -1971 WLF Hi Ranger 85ft; Photo 2 – Mentor 1968 WLF 85ft Hi Ranger

04/26/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

POLICE & FIRE MUSEUM JOINT CAR SHOW

The Cleveland Police Museum and the Western Reserve Fire Museum have joined forces to present the 2023 Vintage First Responder Vehicle Show. It will be held Saturday, June 10th from 10am to 3pm on the Justice Center Plaza located at 1300 Ontario Street downtown Cleveland. Admission is free. There will be a variety of restored vintage police vehicles and fire trucks on display along with music and a 50/50 raffle. A great event for families and car enthusiasts. So come down and experience a blast from the crime and firefighting past!

04/21/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

SUTPHEN AERIAL TOWER AT LADDER 1

Ladder 1 operated a 1968 Sutphen 85ft Aerial Tower seen here at 310 Carnegie then known as Station No. 1. The tower did not have a pump. Eng 1 and Ladder 1 ran out of there from 1975 to 1982 when both were disbanded. Both were reestablished in 1983 at new Headquarters on Superior from Engine 14 and Ladder 7 that were disbanded.

04/08/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
EDUCATIONAL SAFETY SNIPPET

TIPS FOR A SAFE & HAPPY EASTER

The Western Reserve Fire Museum would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Easer. Easter is a wonderful time to celebrate with family and friends while enjoying great food, favorite candies and beloved holiday traditions. However, did you know that home cooking fires peak on major U.S. holidays that involve cooking? It’s easy to get distracted by the holiday hubbub. Below are a few tips to keep your family celebration from going up in flames.

•Don’t let too many cooks spoil your holiday. Avoid overcrowding the kitchen and doing too many things at once. Keep children out of the kitchen is possible, and watch them closely when they are present.

•Be alert when cooking. If you’re sleepy or have consumed alcohol, avoid using the stove or oven. Set timers and don’t leave anything unattended.

•Keep flammable items such as oven mitts, towels, wooden utensils, food wrappers away from your cooking area.

•Be careful when frying anything in the event of a small grease fire, smother the flames by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Remove lid once completely cooled.

•Small oven fires can be put out by turning off the heat and keeping the door closed.

•Sometimes it’s possible to put small fires out on your own. If you have doubts, evacuate immediately, closing the door behind you to contain the flames and call 911.

03/18/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
SAFETY SNIPPET

SPRING SAFETY CHECKLIST

Last week daylight saving time began and we lost an hour. When we set the clocks ahead and spring forward this is a great time to review your spring safety checklist.

SMOKE ALARMS
Three out of every five home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Smoke alarms should be tested once a month and the batteries replaced yearly. If the alarm is making a chirping sound, it means the batteries need to be replaced.

Smoke Alarms should be in every bedroom and in the common areas on each floor of your hose. They should be mounted at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms, less than 12 inches from the ceiling and away from windows, doors and ducts.

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS
Anything that burns fuel can potentially become a source of carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless gas that can kill. CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside of each bedroom and on every level of the house. Batteries should be changed once a year. Make sure your vents for your gas appliances are free and clear of snow or debris.

FAMILY EMERGENCY ESCAPE PLAN
The National Safety Council recommends every family have an emergency escape plan in place. This plan should include how to escape from your home safely with various escape routes (more than one way out). It should also have a way to communicate with family members as well as a safe meeting place outside your home.

03/16/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
THROWBACK THURSDAY

CLASSIC RIGS FROM THE PAST

Some classic rigs from the past. Warrensville Heights 1947 American LaFrance Quad 500/150. The first 700 Series ALF was delivered in March 1947 and this rig had to be one of the first built (by the end of 1950 a total of 1,400 Series 700 rigs were built). The classic little 3-bar accessory on the front bumper was present in 47 and 48 only. The open cab was unusual for this area. South Amherst had a 1936 Seagrave/Ford 500/150 pumper and a 1952 American Fire Apparatus/Ford 500/1000 pumper tanker with an unusual cab and overhead ladder rack. AFA built fire apparatus from 1937 to 1978 in Michigan and Iowa, then was acquired by Collins Industries and operated to 1994 in Kansas and Georgia. The AFA rig was very popular in Northeast Ohio.

Photo 1 – Warrensville Hts. 1947 ALF Quad 500 150; Photo 2- Warrensville Hts Quad; Photo 3 – South Amherst 1936 Seagrave Ford 500 150; Photo 4 – South Amherst 1952 American Fire App Ford 500 1000.

03/02/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM
THROWBACK THURSDAY

PRIOR NE OHIO CLASSICS

Throwback Thursday looks at some classics in Northeast Ohio. Marblehead 1941 Buffalo/Dodge 250/150 and 1955 Ward LaFrance 500/150. Northfield Village 1963 Hahn 1000/500 later repainted. Hahn Motors, Inc. (Hamburg, PA) built fire apparatus from 1932 to 1989. Hahn first built cab forward apparatus in 1962 with TCM “Cincinnati” cabs and chassis from either FWD or Autocar. ALF Figgie acquired the name in 1991. Carlisle Twp. had a 1943 Mack 500/150 “junior pumper” that could be found in small or rural communities across the country.

Photo 1 – Marblehead 1941 Buffalo Doge 250gpm; Photo 2 – Marblehead 1955 Ward LaFrance 500 150; 1963 Hahn 1000 500 Original; Photo 4 – Hahn 1000 500 Rehab Repaint.

02/27/2023

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER
MUSEUM NEWS

POLICE MUSEUM HAS TABLE AT FLEA MARKET

Exciting news! The Cleveland Police Museum will be attending our Flea Market this year. How many of you even knew that Cleveland had a Police Museum? This is a wonderful opportunity to come down and get acquainted with this hidden gem. There will be representatives there passing out literature and talking to you about their exhibits, programming and upcoming events.

The Western Reserve Fire Museum’s Annual Firematic Flea Market is this Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 8:00am to 1:00pm at the Cleveland Fire Training Academy, 3101 Lakeside Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44114.

Come down and join in on fun. There is something for everyone. Food, toys, memorabilia and more!

Address

310 Carnegie Avenue
Cleveland, OH
44115

Telephone

+12166646312

Website

http://www.wrfmc.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Museum

Send a message to The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center:

Videos

The Elide Fire Extinguishing Ball

WESTERN RESERVE FIRE MUSUM & EDUCATION CENTER FIRE SAFETY SNIPPET ELIDE FIRE EXTINGUISHING BALL Elide Technologies mission is to bring innovative technology to the front-line of fire fighting in North America. They recently introduced a new product called the Elide Fire Extinguishing Ball which brings an additional line of defense to fire prevention and suppression solutions. This exploding ball disperses fire-extinguishing chemicals across a 100-foot radius and is designed to activate and disperse chemicals within five seconds of coming into contact with fire. You simply roll it or throw it into the heart of the blaze. If placed in areas of high fire hazard, it will activate automatically when it comes into contact with a flame. The fire ball is composed of a lightweight casing of rigid plastic foam with an abrasion-resistant exterior sheathing. Within its interior there is an explosive yield detonator and a variety of fire retardant chemical agent, including dry powders, two-part reactants and liquid components. This video shows it in action. Quickly extinguishing the flames.

Fireplace & Chimney Safety Tips

Western Reserve Fire Museum & Education Center Educational Safety Tips Fireplace & Chimney Safety Tips Nothing quite creates a winter holiday ambiance as well as a log in the fireplace and family gathered around to bask in its warmth and glow. Of course, playing with or near fire is dangerous for children, so please remember these tips before you light your hearth. • If possible, keep a window cracked open while the fire is burning. • Be certain the damper or flue is open before starting a fire. Keeping the damper or flue open until the fire is out will draw smoke out of the house. The damper can be checked by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror. Do not close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning. • Use dry and well-aged wood. Wet or green wood causes more smoke and contributes to soot buildup in the chimney. Dried wood burns with less smoke and burns more evenly, • Smaller pieces of wood placed on a grate burn faster and produce less smoke. • Clean out ashes from previous fires. Levels of ash at the base of the fireplace should be kept to 1 inch or less because a thicker layer restricts the air supply to logs, resulting in more smoke. • The chimney should be checked annually by a professional. • Even if the chimney is not due for cleaning, it is important to check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping. • Minimize your child's chance of burns from the hot glass front of some fireplaces, including gas fireplaces. Safety screens can be installed to reduce the risk of burns. • Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable (ie: furniture, drapes, newspapers, books, etc.). If these items get too close to the fireplace, they could catch fire. • Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended. Make sure it is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house. If you leave the room while the fire is burning or the firepla

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Halloween is quickly approaching. Here are some safety tips from the NFPA to keep your young ones safe.

Home Explosions Due to Faulty Gas Lines

Electrical Fires

Most Important Information First Responders Need to Know

Look Before You Lock

Hydration and the Human Body

Home Fire Sprinkler Systems

New Fire Banklet for Putting Out Car Fires

Kitchen Appliances & Electrical Fire Safety Tips

International Women's Day Celebrates Women Firefighter

Snow Shoveling Safety

WRFM Stove Top Fire Safety

When and How To Call 9-1-1

Cold Weather Safety Tips

Winter Heating Safety

Christmas Tree Fires Can Turn Devastating & Deadly in Seconds

LAFD on the Forefront of New Technology

A Special Thank You on Veterans Day

Firefighting Rivalries East Coast vs West Coast

Candle Fires

Fighting Wildland Fires

Backyard Fire Pit Safety

Shortcuts

Other History Museums in Cleveland

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Rock and Roll Boulevard
A Christmas Story House
W 11th Street
International Women's Air & Space Museum
N Marginal Road
Dittrick Museum of Medical History, CWRU
Euclid Avenue
Italian American Museum of Cleveland IamCle
Mayfield Road
Sticks and Stones: Nature and archaeology pro
Ukrainian Museum-Archives Inc
Kenilworth Avenue
Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens
Euclid Avenue
West Park Historical Society in Cleveland, Oh
Lorain Avenue
Historic 19th century Jefferson Depot Village
East Jefferson Street
Palm Point Restoration
Glenmore Drive
African American Museum of Cleveland
Crawford Road

Show All

Comments

Nice job by WKYC Channel 3 - Cleveland and Lydia Esparra on this story in advance of Chief Calvillo's retirement announcement today at 11am at The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center.

On a recent visit to the The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center Chief Calvillo caught up with Office Administrator Joan Oliver and volunteer Debbie Hubbard, daughter of Cleveland Firefighter Richard Papajcik, who retired in 1980. Hubbard likes working at the Museum because she remembers her father being stationed there when she was a little girl. Though her father passed in 2005, she feels close to him knowing he spent so much time in the building.
One of Hubbard's jobs is to catalogue over 3,500 House Journals, including some showing her father going on and off duty.

Today we said our farewell to retired Assistant Fire Chief Floyd Spice with a salute by shift personnel and others as the funeral procession passed his longtime home on Ravenna Road, as well as fire station #1, where Floyd spent a large portion of his life.

Thank you for nearly 40 years of dedicated service to our community, Chief. Your shift is complete…we now have the watch.

Until we meet again, rest in peace.

Special thanks to The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center for the beautiful es**rt from the funeral home to the church.

Assistant Chief Floyd will be interred at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville.

Yesterday, Chief Calvillo delivered a copy of the Division of Fire’s 2021 Annual Report to The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center President Jim Bell. This report serves as a snapshot of Cleveland Fire in 2021. It contains information on notable achievements, personnel, response statistics and other important information.

View the full report here: https://bit.ly/3J3siDY

The The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center in Cleveland is celebrating the Hudson Fire Department this Saturday! Check out the new exhibit featuring Hudson fire fighting history between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Anyone who works or lives in Hudson will receive complimentary admission.

Hi everyone. My Father, James Reigle, used to be an active member of the WRFBA. He had 1958 Blitz Buggy Fire Truck and a couple others he used to display at the shows and parades. He just passed away. I have no idea if he was still talking to any members, but posting this in case anyone here knew him and is interested in attending his Celebration of Life.

https://www.facebook.com/events/625247358850163/?active_tab=about

After eight weeks of Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training, the 36th Cleveland Fire Academy Cadet Class transitioned to Fire Training this week. Evolutions had the 88 cadets getting fitted for turnout gear and face pieces, testing and loading hoseline, learning how to check and wear a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), driver training, and plenty of PT!

They also visited the The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center for a Cleveland Fire History Lesson from CFD retirees Bill Deighton and Ken Jordan. Training will continue until they graduate in December.

Keep up the good work!

City of Cleveland - City Hall City of Cleveland Public Safety Recruitment

Tomorrow is Patriot Day and the 20 year anniversary of a horrible day in history. You can remember the day and those we lost in a number of ways. In University Hts, you can join us for a memorial and walk beginning at the City Hall flagpole at 8:30am. The walk is 3.43 mile to recall the 343 firefighters lost. University Heights Fire Department

There is the stair climb we already mentioned in Akron. Akron Fire Fighters Association Local 330 Safety Forces Support Center

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is hosting an online memorial via their page at 8:40 am.

The Cleveland VA Medical Center is hosting an in person and online memorial (via their page) beginning at 8:40.

The The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center is hosting a memorial at 11:00 am.

Medina Fire Dept is hosting an event at their 9/11 memorial near fire station 1. 10:00am

Parma Firefighters Local 639 is hosting a memorial at their memorial site at the Shoppes at Parmatown . This is an evening event at 7:30 pm.

On Sunday in Medina is the Tunnel to Towers Medina 5k run and walk.

This is just a sampling of the events throughout the region. You can come together with others or just reflect at home with your family or by yourself. Any way you choose, recall the tragedy of that day, the sacrifice of public safety personnel to answer the call, the actions of individuals to help their fellow man, the resolve of a nation to triumph over evil, the spirit of togetherness as differences withered away and we came together in solidarity forgetting political, racial, economic and other differences to strive for a better, stronger nation. We strive for better …for ourselves and the memories of those lost. Never Forget.

-International Association of Fire Fighters
-Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters
-University Heights City Hall
-New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

I'm interested in building a model of this rig. I've been told it is in the NW Ohio area. Does anyone know where it might be and any owner contact information? Thanks in advance.

We had a great time today at the museum. Thank you for sharing and answering all of our questions. The kids had a great time as well. Thanks again

REMINDER: The Western Reserve Fire Museum and Education Center will be commemorating the opening of a new exhibit highlighting Westlake's firefighting history on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 1-3 p.m. Westlake Assistant Fire Chief Michael Freeman will deliver a short presentation during the event. More information is available below.