Texas Emergency Medical Services Board - TEMSB / SFFMA EMS Committee

BIG NEWS!

The Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation seminar just got approved for HB 2604 (VFD) and TIMFAS (career FD) grant reimbursement—which means departments all over Texas now have an even better shot at getting their people in the room.

This conference isn’t just another weekend of classes. It’s a chance to learn from instructors who bring real experience, real lessons, and real takeaways you can bring back to your crew. Every year, firefighters leave this event sharper, more confident, and better prepared to handle the work that matters.

No Excuse get to class!

Be a Source of Strength – Join Our Peer Support/Chaplain Training! Join Serving Heroes for an essential Peer Support/Chaplain Training designed for first responders. This one-day event will equip you with the skills and knowledge to provide crucial support for fellow responders facing the emotional and psychological challenges of the job.

📅 Date: January 9, 2026
🕘 Time: 9 AM – 3 PM
📍 Deer Park Police Department Firing Range & Training Facility 291 Luella Avenue, Deer Park, TX 77536

Led by experienced professionals, this training will cover key strategies for mental resilience, crisis intervention, and chaplaincy roles in public safety. Whether you're a trained Peer Support/Chaplain, law enforcement officer, firefighter, paramedic, or dispatcher, this event is a valuable opportunity to enhance your ability to support your peers.

🔗 Learn more and register: servingheroes.serveandshield.com
📞 Questions? Call 816-808-0789

Texas Association of Fire Educators | TAFE | Texas, USA Texas Association of Fire Educators (TAFE) provide quality training and training resources for Fire Educators through out Texas.

On Friday, March 1, 2024, Officer T. Kang and Probationary Police Officer Samaniego were dispatched to an Assault in Progress call where a violent struggle was occurring in an apartment. A female was pleading for her life from a male suspect who was heard assaulting her and throwing objects.

Upon arrival, the officers announced their presence, and observed a male suspect with an AK-style rifle peering out from the doorway, who then slammed the door shut and immediately began firing at them. Officers immediately returned fire at the doorway then took up support position while ordering residents away from the area. Once backup arrived, the officers entered the apartment. Officers observed a trail of blood that indicated the suspect had been struck from their return fire. The blood trail led to an adjoining bathroom where the suspect was observed to have a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head.

Having neutralized the threat, officers escorted the female to a secure vehicle location and immediately began life-saving measures on the suspect until they were relieved by HFD personnel. When notified by HFD that the suspect had succumbed to his head injury, officers secured the scene to contain and preserve evidence. The valor and professionalism of these officers saved a citizen from continuous domestic violence. Their conduct epitomizes those qualities sought in our Department and required for the law enforcement profession.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Firefighter Zachary Ross of Harris County ESD 17 | Little York Fire Department, Engine Company 83 B-Shift, who passed away early this morning following a medical emergency.

Zachary was not only a dedicated firefighter but also an incredibly cherished member of our family. His unwavering commitment to service, courage in the face of danger, and deep compassion for others defined his career and inspired all who knew him.

At Little York, the bond among firefighters goes beyond the station walls—we are a family. Zachary embodied this spirit wholeheartedly, always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or offer support during challenging times. 

His absence leaves a void that words cannot fill, but his legacy of bravery, kindness, and dedication will forever remain in our hearts.

We extend our deepest condolences to Zachary’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. May we honor his memory by continuing to serve with the same passion and integrity that he exemplified every day. 

Rest in peace, Firefighter Ross. Your light continues to guide us.