METRO ARSON STRIKE FORCE

[Bs918]

The Metro Arson Strike Force is a FEMA approved Ohio  Arson Strike Force that has been in operation 1992. The Metro Unit was chartered with 8 Units Youngstown, Girard, Campbell, Liberty ,Hubbard, Boardman and the Western Reserve Fire District

The next year Coitsville was admitted followed by Austintown and Canfield. Three years ago Weathersfield joined the unit. According to our charter the unit was filled and no longer could accept new additions. In 2003 The City of Girard could no longer participate in the unit, they were dropped and BeaverTownship gained entry.

These Fire departements are joined by The Ohio State Fire Marshals Office of Fire Investiagtionse and Explosions as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco , Firearms and explosions.

[daysleeper47]

Hey Bob, could you give some more details about the Strike Force? Why was Girard dropped from the Unit? Also, who is in charge of the MASF vehicle, Unit 14? I know it is currently parked behind Station 1, where it has been all winter, but recently saw it parke in Weathersfield at the McKinley Hts station. What is the composistion of the Force? Is it composed of FI's from all of the departments involved?

[Bs918]

This is our third vehicle since 1992, the current unit was an old Ohio Edison Unit that was refurbished a few years ago. The problem with the vehicle is that it is to high for Station 14 and keeping outside up at South and Boston led to problems.

We will soon be keeping Hint 14 at the Boardman Township old maintenance garage on South Avenue, we are waiting for Haz-Mat to fnally move to their new building.

The vehicle was purchased by Youngstown Fire Chief John O'Neill in 2000

Our old unit was given back to the City and it is now bwing used as the Rope Rescue Vehicle.

Girard no longer has a certified investigator,  Howard Jaacobs retired last year and to maintain membership your Department has to have its own investigator ('s)

[Bs918]

New patch for 2004

[daysleeper47]

I understand the Strike Force has a new truck. Any details and is it going back to Station 14?

[Bs918]

Joe, Yes on both counts, The old truck will be up for auction at the end of the month. I'll submit pics once it is lettered.