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FAST-MOVING FIRE DESTROYS MULTIPLE HOMES IN NEWARK
CHRIS TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Newark, NJ - Three homes were destroyed and several others damaged in a fast-moving second-alarm fire that was fueled by high winds early Saturday morning, May 9th. Just after 4:00 A.M., Newark firefighters were dispatched to the area of 90 Wright Street for a reported structure fire.
- See full story on page 18
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
RON JEFFERS
Hackensack firefighters in front of building with heavy smoke.
DAMIEN DANIS
Multiple-Alarm Fire Hits Hackensack Business District RON JEFFERS
A Small Sign of Hope Seen in Weehawken
Weehawken, NJ - Two days after hundreds of people gathered along Boulevard East to watch the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds fly over the metropolitan area in a tribute to coronavirus first responders and medical workers, a small group gathered at the same location to watch the USNS COMFORT depart New York Harbor. On a windy and dank April 30th afternoon, a silent crowd gathered near the Alexander Hamilton monument to observe and photograph the ship being escorted down the Hudson River. After a month in New York, the hospital ship began its voyage back to Virginia. A small sign of hope that conditions are improving, as people just watched and said nothing.
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON
Chester Vol. Fire Company No.1 operates a 2004 E-One 2000/1000/45 Foam.
Hackensack, NJ - As city fire companies were busy responding to separate alarms, a major fire broke out in a one-story commercial building at 227 Main Street, at approximately 5:45 P.M., May 16th. As a matter of fact, several fire companies, responding to other alarms, smelled smoke in this Main Street area as they went by. An engine, followed by other units, became available when police reported a fire at 227 Main St. and took the run in. Firefighters were greeted with heavy smoke pushing from the structure, which contained NJ Modern Kitchen & Bath and Mix & Match Fashion. A huge column of black smoke rose into the sky, visible in Manhattan, as firefighters lined in. Members cut several holes in the roof, and flames vented out of same. They were quickly removed from the structure as flames broke through the front, back, as well as through the roof. Outside lines and master streams were set up as a recall for off duty personnel and mutual aid companies were called to the scene by Deputy Chief John Taylor. Mutual aid units that answered the alarms responded to the scene from Englewood, Teaneck, Ridgefield Park and Bogota. Ladder pipes were set up on Main Street by Hackensack Ladder's 1 and 2, and Englewood Truck 1 used their tower ladder in a rear lot. Despite the heavy volume of fire, firefighters began to make progress, as the column in the sky began to turn to a gray color. Flames burned through the roof, which later collapsed and a portion of the front facade fell onto the sidewalk. The HFD reported that one
JUMP TO FILE #051820108 firefighter was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and released. In addition, the multiple alarm was being investigated by the Hackensack Fire Prevention Bureau and members of the Bergen County
Prosecutor's Office Arson Squad. This is a standard practice when there is a substantial fire loss. The Teaneck Box 54 Club set up a rehab station, behind the department command post, to assist the worn out firefighters on this warm evening. - RON JEFFERS
DAMIEN DANIS
Englewood firefighters set up their tower ladder in the rear as heavy fire vents.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
July, 2020
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ADVERTISER INDEX Company
Page
Agin Signs
12
Air Purifiers
15
Associated Auto
26
Bagolie Friedman Injury Lawyers
31
Campbell Supply
1,5
Emergency Equipment Sales
39
Fire Flow Services
17
Fire & Safety Services
1,40
First Battalion Fire Equipment
7
Mid Atlantic Rescue Systems
37
NJ Emergency Vehicles
9,23,35
NJ Fire Equipment
7,27
Safe-T
7,11
State Line Fire & Safety
7
Tasc Fire Apparatus
33
Task Force Tips
7
T-Mugs
34
The Fire Store
FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,
DAMIEN DANIS
Moonachie Second-Alarm House Fire Moonachie, NJ - On May 18th at 4:39 P.M., the Moonachie FD was summoned for smoke coming from a home on Joseph Street. Moonachie Police Department Officer Sean Mulligan noticed the smoke during his patrol and alerted the MPD Dispatcher to dispatch the MFD. Our units were on scene quickly and encountered a large amount of smoke and fire in the area above the ceilings, as well as the walls. Companies went to work conducting a primary search, fire attack and ventilation, as well as laddering the building. Four hoselines were stretched and put into operation. Command requested a second alarm to the scene. This brought units from Wood-Ridge Fire Department, Little Ferry Fire Department, Carlstadt Fire Department, South Hackensack Fire Depart-
JUMP TO FILE #051820133 ment and Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department. Additionally, a third alarm was called to cover the Borough. This brought units from Wallington Fire Department and East Rutherford Fire Department. The Moonachie First Aid & Rescue Squad assisted on scene. Three firefighters sustained minor injuries, one of whom was transported to the hospital. The cause of the fire was found to be accidental, and had to do with the use of a propane torch on a home improvement project. (Special thank you to the Moonachie Fire Dept. for their assistance with this article.)
JOHN M. MALECKY
The on duty force of the Asbury Park Fire Department one Sunday. They were tightened up from their social distancing for a moment to fit within the camera frame. (L to R): FF’s R. Schwarz, M. Quiqley and M. Manek, BC G. Siciliano and FF’s K. DiLello, J. Piccolo, B. Condon, R. Maher and P. Keeshen.
- DAMIEN DANIS
3
Valtek
20
VCI
29
VFIS
13
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1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 27 No. 7 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada. A division of:
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DAMIEN DANIS
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After serving on the Ridgefield Park Board of Commissioners for 36-years, and as mayor for 28-years, George Fosdick, right, with 1st Responder News New Jersey Editor Ron Jeffers, retired from public office on May 21st. Fosdick has been a volunteer firefighter for 55-years, is an ex-fire chief, and fire commissioner. Fosdick is president of New Jersey Fire Equipment, and will devote more time to his business and his family.
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July, 2020
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Indiana: John Schoffstall, 41 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 26, 2020 Death Date: April 12, 2020 Fire Department: Terre Haute Fire Department Initial Summary: While on duty, Firefighter John Schoffstall contracted COVID-19 from working with another firefighter who had subsequently tested positive for the virus.
Kentucky: John "Andy" Andrew Kuchar III, 43 Rank: Sergeant Incident Date: March 2, 2020 Death Date: April 16, 2020 Fire Department:Burlington Fire Protection District Initial Summary: Sergeant Andy Kuchar was injured on-duty while performing station duties on 03/02/2020. Since that time, he was off work as a result of the injury. Sergeant Kuchar recently underwent surgery for the injury and passed away at his residence on 04/16/2020. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined. Illinois: Mario Araujo, 49 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 1, 2020 Death Date: April 7, 2020 Fire Department: Chicago Fire Department Initial Summary: While on official duty, Firefighter Mario Araujo contracted COVID-19 from exposure from a patient with a known case of COVID-19.
New Jersey: Israel Tolentino, Jr., 33 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: March 14, 2020 Death Date: March 31, 2020 Fire Department: Passaic Fire Department Initial Summary: On March 14, 2020, Firefighter/EMT Israel Tolentino, Jr., responded with his fire department to an ongoing gas rupture at a residence. All members, including Firefighter/EMT Tolentino, entered the surrounding structures, including multi-family dwellings and apartments, to check for gas seepage and levels. Three of the residences he entered had individuals with known cases of COVID-19. Firefighter/EMT Tolentino
subsequently became ill, was diagnosed with COVID19, and passed away on March 31, 2020.
Texas: Eduardo Ramirez, 43 Rank: Fire Suppression Technician Incident Date: April 21, 2020 Death Date: April 21, 2020 Fire Department: El Paso Fire Department Initial Summary: On Tuesday evening, April 21, 2020, while performing department mandated physical fitness training, Fire Suppression Technician Eduardo Ramirez collapsed. He was immediately taken to the hospital where he passed away. The cause of his death is under investigation. Maine: Harold "Eddie" Moore, Jr., 42 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: April 28, 2020 Death Date: April 28, 2020 Fire Department: Jackson Fire Department Initial Summary: On Tuesday afternoon, April 28, 2020, Lieutenant Harold “Eddie” Moore, Jr., responded to a fire at a residence. Later in the evening, after arriving home, Lieutenant Moore suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away.
Illinois: Robert David Reisinger, 57 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: March 24, 2020 Death Date: April 29, 2020 Fire Department: River Grove Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic Robert David Reisinger responded to a medical emergency on March 24, 2020. The patient had a known case of COVID-19. Firefighter/Paramedic Reisinger subsequently contracted the virus. He was quarantined at home and was scheduled to return to work on Wednesday, April 29, 2020. Monday evening, April 27, 2020, he suffered a stroke and was immediately taken to the hospital. Upon arrival, hospital staff performed a COVID-19 test which came back positive. Firefighter/Paramedic Reisinger passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 from the stroke that was attributed to COVID-19.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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Firefighter Brothers Produce COVID-19 Face Masks UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers
Two years ago, Jersey City firefighter brothers Jordan and Tyler Lang created Heats Straps, LLC. They came up with a way to secure firefighter's gloves while operating in turnout gear at incidents with a wrist strap. These straps are now worn by members in various fire departments across the country. With the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shortage of face masks for first responders. Also, most masks were designed for one time use. The Lang brothers stopped production of the Heat Straps in order to contribute to the efforts made by many businesses to produce virus related equipment. “Although N95 masks have their place, they are not practical for all day use in the firehouse and on nonmedical calls,” Jordan said. The brothers came up with a mask that is sturdy, to stand up to the needs of first responders. The Heat Straps masks, as they are labeled, can be washed with soap and water and reused the next day, according to the brothers. They say the masks can be worn around the neck, and then put into use at a moment's notice by puling over the face. In addition, they report that the masks are made in New Jersey out of high-tech domestic materials. “They are easy to breath in and do not moist, like cotton masks,” Jordan stated. For more information, go to https://www.heatstrapsusa.com/product-page/heat-straps-mask . The brothers say $5.00 of each mask sold online will be donated to the National Fallen Firefighter COVID-19 Emergency Fund. DOWNS: A Newark fire captain and two firefighters were taken to University Hospital after they were injured operating at a fire in a 4-story mixed use building on South Orange Ave., Apr. 28th, authorities said. Three families were displaced. UPS: A team of Port Authority police officers and tunnel & bridge agents teamed up to save the life of a 52-year-old driver, Apr. 26th, who suffered a medical episode outside of the Lincoln Tunnel. P.O. Krystal Armenti answered a call of a disabled vehicle at the Kennedy Blvd. onramp, at the Union City-North Bergen line, and found the driver unresponsive, officials said. Arementi broke the window and pulled the driver out and began compressions, as P.O. Dana Fuller and TBS Keith O'Halloran and David Brierty arrived. The victim had turned blue, wasn't breathing and had no pulse, as O'Halloran did the second round. Brierty, Fuller and Lt. Victor Ta-
lamini assisted with a bag mask and defibrillator. The driver's pulse and color quickly returned and the victim began to move his hands. The victim was transported to Hoboken University Medical Center, where he reportedly was sitting up and talking, a short time later. Two weeks earlier, P.O. Armenti and TBA Brierty and O'Halloran resuscitated a worker who had suffered a seizure while working on the roof of the Port Authority Administration Building. DOWNS: A 33-year-old mother of three has been charged with setting fire to her Hillsborough apartment, Apr. 20th, and fleeing before first responders arrived, according to Somerset County Prosecutor Michael Robertson. Jacklyn McLoughlin was tracked down in Perth Amboy and arrested three days later. UPS: Passaic firefighters rescued a 4-year-old girl and her mother from a burning Dayton Ave. apartment building on April 27th, officials said. Firefighter Ricardo Figueroa climbed a ground ladder and carried the girl down, with help from Deputy Chief Chris Di Bella, Mayor Lora said. Firefighter Ruby Alfaro assisted the mother into the bucket of Ladder 1's tower and taken to safety. The two victims were treated for smoke inhalation. All other residents of approximately 30 apartments got out safely, according to the mayor. The fire involved a third-floor apartment. DOWNS: An early-morning fire, on May 1st, severely damaged a popular bar, in the Ridgeway section of Manchester on County Road 547. It took firefighters from the area several hours to extinguish the fire in Alba's Pub. UPS: Shortly after Passaic firefighters rescued a mother and child from a burning Dayton Ave. apartment building, Apr. 27th, city firefighters were part of a virtual promotional ceremony. Robert Munier was promoted to battalion chief. Promoted to captain were Damien Picipski, Jacob Hrywniak and James Kovbacs. The new lieutenant is Mark Masthj. DOWNS: During a rain storm with high winds on April 30th, Ridgefield fire units were dispatched to a wires down call with a possible car fire, off of Hudson Avenue near Metro Fuel. Companies arrived and found two cars on fire with live wires down in a lot near Parkway Toyota. Fire suppression was delayed until the power could be secured by PSE&G. Once the power was off, firefighters went to work knocking down fire in 21 vehicles. Firefighters also doused nearby oil tankers to prevent them from igniting while they awaited the arrival of the power company. There were no injuries reported. The cars were tightly packed into a section of the parking lot and were completely burned, leaving only charred shells of the vehicles, officials said. UPS: Ernie Troiano III was promoted to fire chief in Wildwood, April 22nd. He is a third generation firefighter.
RON JEFFERS
Jersey City Firefighter Jordan Lang with the "Heat Straps" mask, designed for first responders.
DOWNS: Heavy winds were partly to blame in the spread of a dwelling fire on Harrisonville Rd., in Mullica Hill, April 30th. The building was heavily involved when firefighters arrived. All occupants were accounted for, officials said. UPS: A Jersey City firefighter rescued a disabled woman from a burning Palisade Ave. dwelling on April 30th, officials said. Firefighter Denis Galvin entered the two-story home after a silhouette of a person was spotted in a hallway, city spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione said. In thick smoke, Galvin reached the burned and disoriented woman, picking her up, and carried her out to safety. Captain Justin Savino and Firefighter Mike O'Rielly advanced a charged hose line into the building to knock down the flames. The victim was taken to nearby Christ Hospital for treatment of hand and facial burns and suspected respiratory burns. DOWNS: Person/s unknown set three fires, two hours apart, at the same housing complex in Englewood, on the evening of April 3rd. One of the incidents, at the Tryon Gardens apartments, involved a fire that was set to discarded furniture next to a dumpster, Deputy Police Chief Gregory Halstead said. Firefighters extinguished that fire, which charred one of the buildings and slightly melted the siding. A group of men or boys were seen running from the scene, the deputy chief added. UPS: Atlantic City police and firefighters teamed up to rescue five ducklings from a sewer drain, near Brigantine Blvd., April 30th, officials said. The ducklings were taken to Funny Farm Rescue to be cared for. DOWNS: Firefighters battled a fire in a pallet yard on Old York Rd. in Bordentown, May 8th, for several hours. UPS: Firefighter/EMT Bryam
Castano was sworn in as a career member of the Madison Fire Department, May 4th. DOWNS: A fire involved a twostory apartment building at the Pleasant Bay Apartments in Long Branch, May 22nd. All residents got out safely, officials said. UPS: New probationary firefighters were sworn in at Jersey City Fire Headquarters on April 28th. They are Steven Bratton, Glenn Rosario, De Siree Hillis and Jan Dayleg. DOWNS: Fire damaged several units at the Dickerson Manor condominiums in Mahwah, May 8th. All occupants escaped the flames, officials said. Mutual aid fire units came from Bergen County and Rockland County, N.Y., and operated at the scene. UPS: First responders in Camden County will be using a strong beam of light in their safety efforts during the coronavirus crisis. In May, county officials distributed ultraviolet light systems that can decontaminate emergency vehicles and equipment. The devices emit electromagnetic radiation over several minutes to kill the coronavirus, officials said. It was noted that the devices do not replace routine cleaning. The lights were obtained by the county's Office of Emergency Management. DOWNS: A pet dog died as the result of a dwelling fire on Jupitor St. in Clark, May 4th. Fire Chief Frank Cerasa said there was heavy fire on two floors when units arrived. The homeowner made it out to safety. Chief Cerasa said his crew brought the dog out and police Chief Pedro Matos performed CPR on the animal, but it did not survive. UPS: All American Restoration of Freehold has been donating several days a week to give complimentary coronavirus disinfecting to first responder fleets around Monmouth County.
DOWNS: A grave digger was pinned up to his knees when a plot collapsed on him at the Hillside Cemetery in Lyndhurst, May 5th. Firefighters freed the 59-year-old victim and he was taken to Hackensack University Medical Center after complaining of chest and back pains, officials said. UPS: Members of North Hudson Marine 1 rescued a deer that was trapped near a Hudson River drainage pipe in the area of 1700 Harbor Blvd., Weehawken, May 6th. The deer was guided out of the basin tunnel into the main waterway and was snared and taken back to land by the fire boat crew. The Humane Society and township Humane Officer Geoff Santini were on the scene. After the exhausted deer regained its strength and energy, police assisted firefighters in bringing the deer to a wooded area and released. Santini credited North Hudson Deputy Fire Chief Anthony Venezia with helping pull the deer off of the rocks on the coast line and then over a gate. DOWNS: Flames tore through six dwelling along Beach St. in Paterson and displaced 59 residents, May 9th. Five houses were destroyed, according to reports. There were no injuries according to Public Safety Director Jerry Speziale. UPS: Two Point Pleasant Beach High School students have made PPB Fire Company history by becoming the first and youngest two firefighters to graduate from the Waretown Fire Academy and obtain full Fire 1, Fire 2 and Haz Mat certifications. This was accomplished by Noah Ramos and Dominick Storio while still in high school. They completed 290 hours of classes and drills. They attended the fire academy three days a week. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
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APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM RON JEFFERS
Hackensack Ladder 2's 2003 Pierce Dash 105-foot rear-mount, left, and Ladder 1's 2015 Pierce Arrow XT 105-foot model, operated with ladder pipes during a smoky commercial building fire at 227 Main St., May 16th.
Secaucus Home Gutted in Overnight Fire Secaucus, NJ - On May 14th at approximately 2:30 A.M., the Secaucus Fire Department faced a well involved home as they arrived at 1021 Koelle Blvd. Flames were venting out of the front of the two-story frame dwelling and a truck was well involved in the driveway. An exposure of a similar structure on the 'D' side was being threatened. First due Engine 5 (acting as Tower 2) quickly stretched an ex-
JUMP TO FILE #051920107 posure line and dumped their deck gun on the fire building. Ladder 1 immediately set up for ladder pipe operations. Engine 1 laid in to supply Ladder 1, as well as supplying two hand lines in the rear. Engine 4 and Engine 2 secured additional water supplies. A second-alarm was transmit-
ted, bringing Lyndhurst Rescue to the scene as a FAST Team. Rutherford and Jersey City units covered the borough. Flames consumed the second floor and collapsed the roof before the fire was declared under control at about 6:30 A.M. No serious injuries were reported and the investigation is ongoing. - BILL TOMPKINS
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RON JEFFERS
If you have photos you would like to see in our EMS feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Members of River Edge Engine Co. 2 turn out to an alarm, with their 2006 Pierce Saber 1500-GPM pumper, while covering Hackensack Fire Headquarters during a multiple alarm fire on May 16th.
RON JEFFERS
Bayonne Engine 4's 2018 Spartan 1500-GPM pumper operates, during low banking smoke which blanketed the apparatus at times, at the 4-alarm fire on Kennedy Blvd. involving two OMD's, May 14th.
MIKE NOWACKI
Stafford Township EMS Squad located in Ocean County recently put into service Special Operations Unit 384, a 1999 Freightliner/EVI rescue truck. The Stafford Fire Department donated the truck to the EMS Squad to help the squad replace their older rehab truck and allow the members to have more operating room and storage for supplies needed.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Ups & Downs DOWNS: On May 17th, Bayonne firefighters responded to 18 East 16th St. and found heavy fire showing from a two-story dwelling. Two residents were rescued and transported to Bayonne Medical Center. A third occupant, who had been trapped on the first floor, was removed and taken to BMC, where she was confirmed deceased, according to Deputy Chief William Bartos. UPS: Hanover Township Fire District 3 (Cedar Knolls) recently purchased the second CPR Lucas Device to enable both ambulances to carry the life-saving equipment. The acquisition was funded in large by a $10,500 donation from Barclays employees, according to Morris County Focus. The company wasted no time in connecting with Fire Chief Chad Di Giorgio with an offer to fund raise through employee and corporate donations to contribute the $10,500 toward the purchase. DOWNS: A Grove Street dwelling fire in North Plainfield, May 16th, sent two occupants to the hospital. They were initially listed as one in stable condition and one was critical but stable, officials said. UPS: Ridgefield residents who are police officers, firefighters, EMTs, teachers, nurses and doctors woke up on the morning of May 14th to find a sign on their front lawn placed by person or persons unknown. The signs read: “Thank you police, firefighters, EMTs, teachers, nurses, doctors for all you do!” DOWNS: The NJ Forest Fire Service battled a 100-acre forest fire, off of Route 539, in Manchester Twp., May 17th. UPS: The South Orange F.D. recently received a donation of 4,500 medical masks from Kaixuan Lu, a doctor at the Atlantic Spine Center. The department needed 900 of the masks, so the other 3,600 were split evenly and donated to the S.O.P.D., S.O. Rescue Squad, Livingston F.D. and West Orange O.E.M. South Orange Fire Chief Daniel Sullivan shared the masks, since personal protective equipment has become hard to acquire during the COVID-19 pandemic. DOWNS: First responders recovered the body of a despondent man, in his 60's, who jumped into Mill Creek from the Route 95 bridge in Ridgefield Park, May 18th, officials said. NJ State Police found his abandoned car on the highway and alerted local authorities. Ridgefield Park members pulled the man's body from the creek, off of Bergen Turnpike, and he was pronounced dead a short time later. UPS: Four new per diem firefighters have been hired by the Upper Freehold Township Committee to work for the Hope Fire Company that serves Upper Freehold and Allentown. They are: Tyler Gallagher, Nicholas Brown, Michael Ott and Jonathan Caruso. DOWNS: In May, Paterson fire-
fighters went to the old Meyers Brothers Department Store building, on Main St., as part of an early plan for an annual memorial service. Firefighter John Nicosia, of Engine Co. 4, lost his life battling a huge fire there in 1991. They discovered that a memorial erected on what is left of the building to honor Firefighter Nicosia had been stolen, according to “Tap into Paterson.” UPS: Jersey City firefighters rescued four people from a Monticello Ave. apartment building fire, May 22nd, officials said. The fire was located on the first floor and it was quickly contained. Four occupants from one of the apartments were disoriented and in distress, and they were evacuated by firefighters, city spokeswoman Kimberly WallaceScalcione said. DOWNS: A fire destroyed a historic revolutionary war-era two-story barn on Ridge Rd. in South Brunswick, May 19th. The barn was part of the Longbridge farm, which housed George Washington's troops during the Revolutionary War. The South Brunswick fire marshal determined that the fire was caused by an electrical wire that fell on the barn after a tree branch struck it. UPS: Nutley's newly appointed firefighter is Michael Diacheysn. DOWNS: A squatter jumped from a window of a burning, vacant home on East Powell St., Millville, on May 22nd. Arriving units found the squatter, who had jumped from the firstfloor, suffering from lacerations and smoke inhalation, officials said. UPS: Newly promoted deputy fire chiefs in New Brunswick are Darren Van De Mark and William Borke. DOWNS: On May 20th, a body was found floating in the Passaic River near North Arlington Fire Co. 1's firehouse, officials said. UPS: Haas Hearya has been promoted to fire captain in New Brunswick. DOWNS: A River Terrace home in Toms River was severely damaged due to a fire on May 15th. There were no immediate reports of injuries, officials said. All six Toms River fire companies responded to the scene. UPS: Newly promoted fire lieutenants in New Brunswick are: Jarrett Dechert, Peter Ohliger and Jake Bornheimer. DOWNS: In May, NJ Forest Fire Service members battled a large forest fire in Winslow Twp. at the Winslow Wildlife Management Area. Some 2,100 acres burned, with strong winds helping the spread of flames, officials said. UPS: Trenton FMBA Locals 6 and 206 provided more than 1,000 meals, on May 22nd, to local residents to start the Memorial Day weekend. With the state easing some coronavirus restrictions, firefighters felt it was time to “let off a bit of steam,” while maintaining proper social distancing practices. “While nothing seems 'normal' right now, we wanted
Continued from Page 8
RON JEFFERS
Wallington ex-Fire Chief and NJSEA EMT David Pinto, standing at right, during a January 4th WFD ceremony, died from complications from the coronavirus.
to remind our neighbors that one thing that definitely hasn't changed is our commitment to them,” said Wayne Wolk, President of FMBA Local 206. The food was served from a catering truck owned by city Fire Captain Robert Buzzette, that was parked in a downtown parking lot. DOWNS: One person was killed and seven others injured during a 2alarm fire in a three-story OMD on Magazine St., Newark, on May 22nd. Residents were forced to jump from windows, officials said. Two victims were reported in critical condition. UPS: Audra Carter was sworn in as the first female battalion chief in the 171-year history of the Hoboken Fire Department, on May 28th. DOWNS: On May 24th, Elmwood Park firefighters pulled the body of a 17-year-old boy from the Passaic River after a fisherman spotted him tangled in debris against an abutment
of the Broadway (Route 4) bridge, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella reported. An autopsy by the Bergen County Medical Examiner's office found no trauma to the body or any other indications that the boy's death was suspicious, Musella said. UPS: In Hoboken, Joshua Pineiro was promoted to fire captain, May 28th. DOWNS: A 3-alarm fire leveled one dwelling and damaged two others on Maple Ave., North Plainfield, May 27th. It was reported that the fire broke out in a house under construction and extended to exposures. The families of the exposure buildings got out safely. Later on, a 26-year-old North Plainfield man was charged with aggravated arson and aggravated assault, the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office said. Jonathan Davies was seen watching the fire, and he was seen entering and leaving
the property multiple times, authorities said. UPS: Recently, the New Jersey Knights of Fire, parent chapter, delivered donated food to the New Jersey Firemen's Home in Boonton. DOWNS: Wallington ex-fire chief and New Jersey Sports Exposition Authority EMT David Pinto has passed away due to complications from the coronavirus. He was the third medical member of the NJSEA to die from COVID-19 complications. Chief Pinto was an experienced medical worker in the field of entertainment and sports EMS. In addition, he was Wallington fire chief in 2001, and he also served as a Board of Education member. “Dave was an expert at what he did, but never looking for that 'atta boy,'” Deputy Fire Chief Chris Sinisi said on Facebook. “He loved what he did and he did it well.”
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Paterson Firefighters Battle Seven-Alarm Blaze Paterson, NJ - Paterson firefighters fought hard to contain a seven-alarm blaze that involved or damaged at least six structures late Saturday night, May 10th. Firefighters were dispatched to the area of 81 Beech Street just before 9:00 P.M. for multiple calls reporting a house fire. First arriving units reported heavy fire conditions in the rear of a two-and-a-half story dwelling with exposure problems and transmitted a second-alarm on arrival. As crews began to attack the fire, flames had extended into the 'Bravo', 'Charlie' and 'Delta' exposures, with heavy fire throughout. A third-alarm was transmitted, followed quickly by a fourthalarm. Firefighters attempted an interior attack, but were pushed back from heavy fire conditions and low water pressure.
JUMP TO FILE #051020100 Two tower ladders, two deck guns and multiple hand lines were put into operation to prevent the fire from spreading to additional structures. A total of six structures were involved during the fire, three of which sustained heavy fire damage, causing a total of seven alarms to be transmitted during the incident. It took firefighters three hours to bring the fire under control, which displaced over 50 residents. No injuries were reported. Mutual aid from multiple counties assisted on the scene and covering the city. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - CHRIS TOMPKINS
BUDDY SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JACKSON PYLE
The crew from Clinton Truck Co. 45 pose after making quick work of a small fire in the living room of an occupied dwelling. (L to R): FF/EMT C. Querry, FF/EMT W. Hockin, and Ex-Chief W. Dorf.
July, 2020
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July, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month� feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
Arriving Jersey City firefighters, left, drop large diameter hose, as they prepare to assist all Bayonne fire companies battle a 4-alarm fire in two attached dwellings on Kennedy Boulevard, May 14th.
Four Alarms Struck in Bayonne EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to the Jacksonville Fire Department, located in Burlington County, NJ.
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our Working Faces feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
Hackensack Firefighter Scott Dugan kept a watchful eye on water supply during the Main St. multiple alarm of May 16th.
Bayonne, NJ - Flames tore through two occupied and attached three-and-a-half story wood-frame dwellings on Kennedy Boulevard on May 14th. The stubborn fire took several hours to extinguish. The alarm was sounded shortly before 1:00 P.M. for 482 Kennedy Boulevard. Firefighters JUMP TO FILE # found a fire on the 051520115 second-floor. They began knocking down those flames; however, fire was extending up the walls into the third floor and roof area. Fire also spread to the attached dwelling on the 'B' side. A total of four alarms were transmitted, which brought all of Bayonne's fire companies and several from Jersey City to the scene to battle the flames. During the fire, low banking smoke also covered the boulevard, obscuring the view of the burning buildings and fire apparatus. There were heavy flames venting out of the windows in the rear of the building. Due to the dangerous conditions, firefighters operated from the exterior using numerous hand lines and two tower ladders. A partial roof collapse occurred during the blaze. The fire was brought under control at 4:00 P.M., but fire companies remained on the scene to extinguish pockets of fire. Red Cross representatives were on the scene to help 52 displaced residents, and the Bayonne Fire Canteen unit set up a
RON JEFFERS
rehab station. In addition, fire investigators from the Hudson County Prosecutor's Officer were present to
conduct an investigation.
- RON JEFFERS
July, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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July, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
DAMIEN DANIS
Second-Alarm in Rutherford on Park Ave.
PROVIDED
NJ Forest Fire Service, Division C, (L to R): Al Valentino, Quincy Jones, Ken Badger, Jr., Nick Bleyhl, John Knapp, Larry Birch, Bill Donnelly, (Asst. State Fire Warden and K9 Handler), and Anthony Tobolski Jr. in the truck.
N.J. Forest Fire Service Helps Burn Foundation Artist with the 2020 Limited Edition Artwork Image For the 40th year of his partnership with the BURN FOUNDATION and its annual fundraiser at the NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ, artist Joseph M. Getsinger wanted to create something unique, but was not sure of what to paint next. Then a co-worker and firefighter, Rich Dale, suggested a “Wildfire” scene honoring New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Over the years, Joe’s work has depicted many aspects of firefighting featuring firefighters, equipment, history and various evolutions of the firefighter experience. This painting will be the first to feature the Forest Fire Service in action. The Burn Foundation was established in 1973 to provide fundraising for the emerging specialty of treatment of burn injuries. The foundation was founded with the mission to provide assistance to burn patients and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four (4) regional Burn Centers at Crozer Chester Medical Center, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Temple University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, their patients and staff, have all benefited from contributions raised at various events throughout the years. But none is more important than the annual NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in
JUMP TO FILE #051820104 Wildwood. Joe Getsinger’s art has been a major influence in the foundation’s success in Wildwood for 40 years. To get the ball rolling with this year’s painting, Joe called Assistant State Fire Warden/K9 Handler of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, William J. Donnelly of Division “C” Headquarters. Bill responded that he and his crew would be honored to assist the Burn Foundation and the artist. He and his crew knew of Joe’s art, some of which is displayed at their headquarters. In early March, Getsinger met with Donnelly and his crew and set up a photo shoot in the Mays Landing forest. The crew was ready with equipment and manpower. Joe learned many facets of the expertise of New Jersey State Forest Firefighters and what they do, not only to extinguish fires, but also to prevent a wildfire from spreading. The scenario for the painting is planned to show a wildfire traveling to the crew’s area of operations and what the Forest Fire Service members do to mitigate its spread. The artist will also incorporate the NJ Forest Fire Service airplane shown dropping an extin-
guishing agent from above. Joe found the photo shoot and exercise a terrific learning experience about the NJ Forest Fire Service and its great group of dedicated professionals. In an earlier tour of the Headquarters, Joe discovered an older metal sign with Smokey the Bear that he thought might be incorporated in the Burn Foundation’s fundraising efforts at the 2020 NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood, if the rights to the image can be obtained. Stay tuned on this. This yearly art project continues to be sponsored in full by David Russell, President, FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES Ltd., South Plainfield, N.J., who has supported the Burn Foundation and the Artist for over 20 years. We all look forward to meeting in Wildwood this September if the spread of the Coronavirus has diminished and everyone can safely attend. Finally, God bless our First Responders, Nurses, Doctors, EMTs, Firefighters, Police and all who support them in their efforts to stem the effects of Covid-19. We especially pray for the families who have lost loved ones during this pandemic. - JOSEPH M. GETSINGER
Rutherford, NJ - A two-alarm fire broke out at Jim Dandy’s BBQ restaurant at 96 Park Avenue in Rutherford around 2:30 A.M. on the morning of May 13th. Companies were dispatched for a water flow activation. On arrival, Assistant Chief Dennis Gentile had smoke showing from the building. A secondalarm was transmitted, bringing mutual aid to the scene from Wallington, East Rutherford, North Arlington, Lyndhurst, Passaic and Wood-Ridge. As entry was made to the restaurant fire was discovered in the kitchen ventilation system, extending to the cockloft area of the building. Hand lines were put in place from the interior and the roof to knock down and contain the fire.
JUMP TO FILE #051420102 Although fire officials have not determined an official cause of the fire, it is suspected that the fire started in the kitchen area, Fire Marshal Paul Dansbach said. The restaurant's sprinklers held the fire initially and the flames were knocked down within about 45 minutes upon the arrival of firefighters, he said. Fire officials do not believe the fire was suspicious. No injuries were reported. Stand by companies on the third-alarm were from Secaucus, Carlstadt and North Arlington. - DAMIEN DANIS
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
Members of Bayonne Tower 1, with their Spartan/Crimson 75-foot platform, move into action to open up on the 4-alarm fire involving two occupied multiple dwellings on Kennedy Blvd., May 14th. Fiftytwo residents were displaced.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
July, 2020
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July, 2020
William "Ozzie" Oosterwyk, Jr.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
ARTIE KNOBLOCH CHRIS TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
William “Ozzie” Oosterwyk, Jr. Loved the Fire Service He was known as Ozzie, and many members of the Fire Service, locally and nationally, knew that nickname and who he was, with his outgoing personality. William, or Bill, or Ozzie, Oosterwyk, was a volunteer firefighter for most of his adult life. He became a member of Carlstadt Engine 3 in 1967. He also spent three years as a volunteer member in Wallington. In 1972 he joined Carlstadt Engine 2. He also served as a captain with the Carlstadt Emergency Squad. Firefighter Oosterwyk passed away at the New Jersey Firemen's Home in April. Oosterwyk was employed as a landscaper for the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, in East Rutherford, for 32-years. In addition, he was the proprietor of Bill's Lawn Service for some 10years. To say that Ozzie loved the fire service would be an understatement. He was always proud of what he did, his town and department, the South Bergen departments, and fire service support organizations. He got the bug for fire and apparatus photography, and he would drive to fires in the area to document them on film, and pass his photos on to fellow firefighters. The photo bug really hit when he met two apparatus photographers at the Jefferson Street firehouse, on January 18, 1981, that asked the members on hand if they could photograph the department's new Mack/3D rescue truck, a.k.a. Emergency Squad. In 1985, Ozzie attended a meeting at Garfield Fire Company 1, organized by Company 1 firefighter and photographer, Rich Wolfson, to see if local photographers were interested in forming a
JUMP TO FILE #052620109 New Jersey photo club to promote the state's firefighters and their heroic actions. Ozzie met many photographers there, known for their work, and Ozzie became a founding member of the New Jersey Metro Fire Photographers Organization (NJMFPA). From that day on, there was usually a camera by his side. Ozzie attended many fire service, and fire buff related activities throughout the years. He spent a few years as a member of the Jersey City Gong Club, where he met more fire service members from around the country, who visited that club's quarters on a regular basis. He attended conventions which included ones held by the International Fire Buffs Associates. Ozzie also made close friends with members of the Buffalo, N.Y., Fire Department who visited New Jersey, and he would then take trips to Buffalo. In the 1980's Ozzie rode around in a white pickup truck with a large, blue, four lens beacon light mounted on the roof. His Gong Club nickname was, “Blue Light.” He attended an IFBA convention in Boston, where blue lights signify police vehicles. After being checked out, and learning of an international fire buff convention in town, Ozzie later passed police units, and the cops just looked at the truck, with Jersey plates. They probably said, “That's Ozzie.” Bill Oosterwyk was a person like the “Cheers” character. When he entered a room, everybody knew his name. - RON JEFFERS
Fast-Moving Fire Destroys Multiple Homes in Newark Newark, NJ - Three homes were destroyed and several others damaged in a fast-moving secondalarm fire that was fueled by high winds early Saturday morning, May 9th. Just after 4:00 A.M., Newark firefighters were dispatched to the area of 90 Wright Street for a reported structure fire. Engine 10 quickly arrived to find a large threestory home fully involved and threatening both the 'Bravo' and 'Delta' exposures. Battalion 4 arrived shortly after
JUMP TO FILE #050920100 and transmitted the second-alarm as fire had extended into both exposures. All companies went defensive on the main fire building and made interior attacks on both exposures. As the fire continued to spread and high winds threatened a collapse of the main fire building, all companies were ordered out of both exposures and went into a defensive attack on all three struc-
tures. The main fire building then totally collapsed. One deck gun, portable monitors, and multiple handlines attacked the fire, which took about an hour to bring under control. Three homes were totally destroyed and at least three others sustained damage. An additional two engines and one truck were called above the secondalarm for water supply. No injuries were reported and the fire is under investigation. - CHRIS TOMPKINS
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
MIKE NOWACKI
North Brunswick Fire Co. No.1 recently put into service Engine 101, a 2020 Pierce Saber 2000/750 engine. It replaces an older 1984 Pierce Dash engine and 1989 Pierce Arrow engine. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
July, 2020
PAGE 19
Keep the kitchen cool!! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
PROVIDED
Many states are reporting an increase in speeding over 100 mph.
Less Traffic Doesn’t Mean It’s Safer for Walkers or Bikers Speeding, Careless Driving Up as Traffic Levels Come Down; bikers, walkers must be more vigilant. Traffic levels right now are the lowest in decades with millions of Americans staying close to home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, more people are walking and biking to get out of the house and take advantage of less congestion. All good, except that some drivers see empty roads and highways as an invitation to speed or drive distracted. Here are just a few concerning examples from around the nation. The California Highway Patrol has issued almost double the number of tickets compared with last year for driving over 100 mph. In Nevada and Rhode Island, state officials note pedestrian fatalities are rising. Utah has seen a 30% to 50% drop in highway traffic and a slight decrease in the number of collisions, but troopers are seeing higher speeds and more fatal accidents. The lesson for us all – walkers, bikers and drivers – is not to let down our guard because roads and highways seem less crowded. Keep these basic walking/driving safety tips in mind at all times, but especially now: Tips for Drivers
- Don’t block any crosswalks when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn. - Watch your speed – less traffic doesn’t make it any less dangerous to drive recklessly. - Take extra care to look out for pedestrians or cyclists, especially in residential areas. - Watch for unexpected street closures. Many cities are selectively closing roads to create more space for walkers and bikers. - When passing a bicyclist,
JUMP TO FILE #051520104 proceed in the same direction slowly. And leave three feet between your car and the cyclist. - Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling. Young bicyclists especially have a tendency to do this. - Check side mirrors before opening your door when parked. Tips for Pedestrians and Cyclists
- Whenever possible, walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic. - Follow the rules of the road, obeying all traffic signs and signals. - Cross streets at crosswalks. If no crosswalk is available and your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic. - Stay alert – avoid cell phone use, especially when crossing the street. Keep your eyes out for cars at all times. - As mentioned above, several cities are closing streets to vehicle traffic or adding temporary bike lanes. Check your city website for more information. - If you are riding a bike, you should be wearing a helmet. Download this guide from the National Safety Council to select and fit the right helmet for yourself and your kids. - And, of course, keep your social distance! Even outside, the CDC recommends we stay six feet away from others. It’s up to all of us to share the trails, share the road and share the good weather safely. - BAGOLIE FRIEDMAN INJURY LAWYERS
It’s July and the last thing we want to do is turn on the oven, so let’s fire up those grills! When we are in the dead of summer, I try to use my grill as much as possible, whether at home or the firehouse. Most recipes that are ideal for cooking on the grill are fast cooking, making them perfect for those days that are just too hot to do anything. But instead of throwing a steak on and calling it a day, I try to keep it interesting and play with flavors, textures and techniques. Kabobs are ubiquitous with grilling but often fall short in the creativity department,
you know the ones I am talking about…protein, pepper, onion, repeat. But that is just way too boring for me, after all most kabobs sold pre-packed in the supermarket come exactly that way. Kabobs are the perfect vehicle for trying out new marinades and ingredients, so think outside the box! Kabobs require two things, the first being ingredient selection. Make sure to use proteins that cook fast like chicken, lean cuts of beef, lamb and even seafood. Chicken breast is great but I prefer boneless skinless thighs as they offer more flavor and are more forgiving when it comes to overcooking. They also take on marinades well. Beef can be tricky so I tend to use sirloin steak rather than something expensive like filet mignon. Pork tenderloin is fantastic because it cooks fast and the same goes for seafood, particularly shrimp. You must also think about
the other ingredients you will be using. Things like peppers, onions, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant all work well because they do not need extensive cooking times. With the recipe here I use corn, something not often used on kabobs, but the key here is to “par-cook” it on the grill before skewering to make sure it cooks through. Besides ingredient selection, you also need to consider how you will cut your ingredients before putting them on the skewer, this ensures ingredients will cook through. Think about how fast each ingredient cooks and cut them accordingly. Leave quicker cooking ingredients bigger and slower cooking ingredients a little smaller. Kabobs are great for feeding crowds and this recipe for Mexican Shrimp and Corn Kabobs will certainly be a hit at your next BBQ! Stay safe, eat well!
MEXICAN SHRIMP AND CORN KABOBS Serves 4-6
Ingredients:
For Kabobs: 1 lb. Shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 Ears of Fresh Corn 2 Limes, 1 sliced thin / 1 cut into wedges Handful of Fresh Cilantro, rough chopped EVOO Kosher Salt Fresh Cracked Pepper Chili Powder Skewers, if using wood soak for at least 30 minutes Procedure:
-Preheat grill to high.
-Grill the corn with husk on for about 10 minutes, turning frequently. Remove and let cool. When cool to the touch, peel husk and cut into 2” pieces.
-To make the kabobs, alternate shrimp, lime slices and corn. Brush kabobs with olive oil, season with salt, pepper and chile powder. Oil the grill grates and grill the skewers for a few minutes per side, or until the shrimp just starts to turn pink. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
AJ FUSCO
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July, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
NEW JERSEY GIGS
NEW JERSEY MEMORIES
If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ Gigs” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ Memories” feature, please upload them to our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Back in the day, Fort Monmouth Chief 1 was a 1987 Chevy Corsica.
RON JEFFERS
Deal Engine 6175 had a 1961 American LaFrance 1000-GPM/300-GWT pumper.
RON JEFFERS
In Middletown Township, Belford Engine 171 ran with a 1978 Duplex/Pierce engine.
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
In Parsippany, Mount Tabor Chief Bryan Crawford operates this 2018 Chevy Tahoe.
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In Parsippany, the Rockaway Neck First Aid Squad uses this 2017 Chevy Tahoe.
Often found in the low banking smoke, is Paterson Car 6's Ford F-150, used by the Fire Investigation Unit. RON JEFFERS
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
PAGE 21
July, 2020
FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.
RON JEFFERS
Hasbrouck Heights Captain Mike Greco takes a blow after some labor intensive work at a dwelling fire on Joseph St., in Moonachie.
DAMIEN DANIS
Wallington Chief Robert Ventura and Lodi Assistant Chief Michael Lortz discuss operations during a fire on Westervelt Place on May 3rd.
Hackensack Chief of Department Thomas Freeman communicates with headquarters during a three-alarm fire in the city’s downtown business district on May 16th.
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
RON JEFFERS
JUSTIN MATTES
Ridgefield Park Assistant Chief John Malool in on mutual aid with several RPFD units at the scene of a multiple alarm in Hackensack on May 16th.
Carlstadt Firefighter Recanati takes a water break after battling a mutual aid dwelling fire in Moonachie, May 18th.
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Cape May Deputy Chief Rick Lundholm overseeing a drill on the Washington Mall on May 7th.
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July, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
RON JEFFERS
Deep-seated pockets of fire continued to flare up during a two-city fire involving a paper recycling business on Hope St., at the Jersey City-Hoboken border, May 30th.
Two-City Fire Hits Hudson Jersey City, NJ - On the afternoon of May 30th, Hoboken Fire Dispatch sent companies to the Paterson Avenue border line with Jersey City, for a reported fire. Arriving companies saw smoke and flames and tried to determine what was burning and access to same. At 4:24 P.M., Jersey City sent a full assignment to the same general area, but not the exact location. It was determined that the fire involved a paper recycling business, well known to area firefighters, with the address of 2 Hope Street, Jersey City. Both departments established water supplies and placed Jersey City apparatus inside the property to knock down flames in piles of paper. Company employees also assisted firefighters with their equipment to spread the bails out for proper extinguishment. In the early stages, Hoboken
RON JEFFERS
JUMP TO FILE #060120122 struck a second-alarm. The jurisdiction was determined to be Jersey City, and that department also transmitted a second-alarm. Later, a third alarm was sounded for relief purposes. The NJ Transit Light Rail was shut down in the area due to hose lines extending over their tracks. Transit police units were also on hand at crossings, with EMTs from the Jersey City Medical Center on standby, near the tracks. It took several hours for the deep-seated flames in bails of paper to be extinguished. The Gong Club canteen truck also set up, near the rail tracks, for rehab and dinner purposes. - RON JEFFERS
Lodi ex-Chief Corso, seated, with his fellow firefighters and borough officials, during the 2019 ceremony at "Frank M. Corso Jr. Place."
Lodi F.D. Loses a Valuable and Loved Member Lodi, NJ - Borough volunteer fireman, and ex-chief, Frank M. Corso, Jr., proudly served his community for some 72-years. He fought fires, participated in many fire department and community events, and in later years became a career fire inspector. Ex-Chief Frank M. Corso, Jr., died in May. On April 28th, 2019, borough officials and firefighters got together and named the street in front of Company 1's quarters, Frank M. Corso, Jr. Place. Following in his father's footsteps, Corso joined the Fire Department in 1948. Before that in
JUMP TO FILE #051120107 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Marne Corps and served in the South Pacific during World War II and the Battle of Okinawa. He was a professional carpenter and a construction superintendent. After he retired from his construction work, he started a new career as a borough fire inspector. Chief Corso was named “Fireman of the Year” in 1987. His other accomplishments included
being president of the Lodi Exempt Firemen's Association, South Bergen Fire Chief's Association, and he served as department chaplain for 38-years. In addition, he was the leader of the annual Memorial Day services for 20-years. His dedication and love for the Fire Department and the Borough was evident on that April day when many firefighters, from all companies, local officials, family and friends turned out for the street naming ceremony. - RON JEFFERS
STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
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FRANK ROBINSON
Bound Brook Fire Department still operates this 1993 Pierce Lance 1500/500/105' Ladder.
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RON JEFFERS
COURTESY NJ EMS TASK FORCE
Members of the NJ EMS Task Force participate in the transfer of residents of a long term care facility in Woodbridge, NJ during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NJ EMS Task Force Awarded $25,000 Grant by the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation The New Jersey EMS Task Force, a statewide organization designed to respond to large-scale man-made and natural disasters, has been awarded a generous grant from the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation. The $25,000 grant will go directly to providing personal protective equipment to the NJ EMS Task Force members on the frontlines of the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The men and women of the NJ EMS Task Force have been integral in the fight against COVID19,” said Michael Bascom, President of the Non-Profit Board of Directors. “This grant from the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation will provide us with funds to assure our members have the right PPE they need now, and well into the future.” “Our foundation is committed to helping those in our community who are committed to helping our New Jersey communities, especially in these times of crisis,” said Edele Hovnanian. “The men and women who are part of this Task Force are part of the growing list of heroic organizations and people who are helping our communities get through this crisis and we will forever be grateful to them.” The NJEMSTF was activated in March to be part of the state’s efforts to fight the COVID-19
JUMP TO FILE #050820109 pandemic. Working side-by-side with local, state, and national health, law enforcement and office of emergency management teams, members have handled such missions as providing administrative and logistics support at the mobile COVID-19 testing sites, deployed Western Shelter tent facilities at 20 hospitals, placed oxygen generators at various facilities, and coordinated the deployment of its medical ambulance bus fleet to transport COVID-19 positive patients from long term care facilities and hospitals. The team is also staffing regional temporary morgue sites, the deployment of out-of-state FEMA ambulance teams, working to obtain and distribute PPE, and coordinating state EMS needs. “This funding will assure the safety of our NJ EMS Task Force providers and enhance the care our providers deliver to the people of New Jersey, every hour of every day,” said John Grembowiec, Task Force Advisory Board Chairman. “This grant will also allow us to focus on the immediate and long-term needs of disaster planning and preparations throughout the state.”
The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds roared over our area to pay tribute to front line coronavirus workers on a clear April 28th afternoon.
Flyover Tribute to Corona Virus Responders A total of twelve U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds jets executed a flyover, in our area, on the afternoon of April 28th, as a tribute to coronavirus medical workers and emergency first responders. On a rare blue sky, mild, April day, people came out of their homes to witness the flyover and get some badly needed fresh air. The flyover was performed over a number of cities in four states, including New York City and Long Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The show included FA-18 Super Hornets and F-16 Fighting Falcons that soared over the states. This was the first leg of a nationwide tour, dubbed “Operation American Strong.”
JUMP TO FILE #043020102 Many people, equipped with cameras and video equipment, assembled along Boulevard East, in Weehawken, including mobile media trucks. Hamilton Park is a well known location for tourists to take photos of the New York skyline. On weekends, there are usually several wedding parties taking photos with the tall buildings for a background. Police closed off the major artery, leading to the Lincoln Tunnel, during the flyover. Besides media trucks, numerous BLS and ALS units were on hand. Weehawken police covered the area and passed out masks to anyone
who did not possess one. The crowd along this path had a chance to witness, and photograph, the jets as they flew down the Hudson River from the George Washington Bridge. Later, they came back around and over again from Teterboro and then were seen behind the Manhattan skyline, headed up the East River. Photographers, with long lenses on their cameras, conversed and kept an eye on their watchers and in the sky for their photo ops. A bit of relief for residents to get their mind off of virus related issues, and a showing of respect for those who are putting themselves on the line to beat this invisible enemy. - RON JEFFERS
APPARATUS IN ACTION
If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
- RICHARD HUFF
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Passaic's Ladder 1 and Ladder 2 flowing water at a 3rd-alarm fire during exterior operations on 4-5-20.
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LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
In Ocean County, the Lanoka Harbor FC in Lacey Township has this unit designated Brush 6109. It is a 1995 Ford F-350 XL 4x4 with an Omaha body, assembled by G & S Fabrication. It has a design style similar to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. Features and inventory include a Hale 20FD-B25, 125GPM pump, UPF 250-gallon water tank, ¾-inch booster reel, 1 ¾-inch preconnect, two ¾-inch whip lines, a brush guard, front winch, long tools, brooms, rear cab spotlights, chain saw and 1 ¾-inch hose.
RON JEFFERS
A little North Hudson FD history occurred on May 6th, when firefighters removed equipment from decommissioned spare Engine 18 at Fire Headquarters. This was the last piece of firefighting apparatus used by the regional department that came from one of the five original municipalities that formed this consolidated FD, in 1999.
A Piece Of The Old Days Is Gone In North Hudson West New York, NJ - Some local firefighters were not aware, and others were, that a little piece of history was made at North Hudson Fire Headquarters on May 6th. Spare Engine 18's 1994 EOne 1250-GPM pumper was decommissioned and members removed equipment from the veteran pumper. This is the last piece of firefighting apparatus that was in use from the five municipal fire departments that now make up the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue, which was organized in 1999. “The Regional,” as some call it, was made up from the fire departments of Union City, North Bergen, West New York, Weehawken and Guttenberg. Engine 18 saw original duty as Guttenberg Engine 1, and operated from the firehouse at 6810 Madison Street. You could say this rig had two identities. This house had six career members, with two on each of three 24-hour tours. They were known as Engine Co. 1. The volunteer members ran as Eclipse Hose Co. 4. Over the old North Hudson radio frequency, which was shared by six departments, it was known as Unit, and later Engine, 501. This apparatus was not built for Guttenberg, but it was purchased by the town since it was available by a local vendor. That's why this unit has a 1000-gallon water tank, large for pumpers in this urban area, and a top-mount pump panel, also not common in the area.
JUMP TO FILE #051520116 When the regional was formed, this apparatus remained in the same firehouse and was reorganized as North Hudson Engine Co. 12. Engine 12 was disbanded on January 4, 2005, to organize Squad Co. 7 at the new Fire Headquarters building in West New York, along the ever growing Hudson River waterfront. This apparatus also served as Squad 7's rig for a time. The Madison Street firehouse is currently occupied by Safety 1 and the Mask Service Unit. It was occupied by Rescue Co. 1 between the Engine 12 and Safety 1 days. Of course, there is always a technicality, as captain Sean Sullivan, of Engine Co. 13, pointed out. Sullivan is a former Guttenberg career firefighter. The body of the department's current Mask Service Unit was built by Cliffside Body Co., using a 1994 Ford chassis, for the former North Bergen Fire Department. That body, with a six-bottle fill station, was later remounted on to a newer Ford chassis by North Hudson. The decommissioning of Engine 18 created a stir on some Facebook pages as both former Guttenberg and North Hudson firefighters reminisced about this engine and others that served. - RON JEFFERS
JOHN M. MALECKY
Lanoka Harbor Brush 6109, 1995 Ford F-350 XL, 4x4/Omaha, 125/250 with brush guard and front winch.
JOHN M. MALECKY
Right/rear view of Lanoka Harbor Brush 6109 shows midship pump compartment, booster reels and whip lines.
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ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DAMIEN DANIS
Power Lines Down in Front of Lodi Home
Lodi, NJ - On the morning of May 3rd at 7:30 A.M., the Lodi FD was dispatched to a reported wire down at 116 Westervelt Pl. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Moses Owen had a re-dispatch of the call, upgrading it to a house fire. A high tension wire had fallen in front of a home, which charged the underground drain pipe from the home to the street. The gutter pipe and fence became energized. The outside fire was quickly extinguished when public service cut the power. There was no fire spread to the brick home. Wallington, Saddle Brook, Rochelle Park, Garfield and Wood-Ridge were on scene to assist if conditions warranted.
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RON JEFFERS
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July, 2020
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Vehicle News
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
New Milford Truck 31 is now operating with a 2020 Pierce Dumont Engine 3 has been assigned a 2020 Pierce Arrow Ridgefield Engine 4 sports a new Pierce Enforcer 1500Arrow XT Ascendant model 100-foot platform, painted gun XT 1500-GPM/750-GWT/40-gallon Class A foam cell pumper, GPM/750-GWT/40-Class "B" foam cell pumper, sold by Fire & Safety Services. metal gray and red. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services. sold by Fire & Safety Services.
Elmwood Park Squad 3 has been assigned a 2020 Ford Union City EMS fleet #309 is a 2019 Ford/Braun unit that Union City EMS fleet #313 is a new Ford F450/Braun ambulance. F550/E-One unit with 1250-GPM pump and 300-gallon has been added to the fleet. water tank, sold by Absolute Fire Protection Co.
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FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,
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Teaneck Battalion Chief J. Zbierski and Bergen County Coordinator J. Alvarez at the command post at a thirdalarm in the Township on April 29th.
RON JEFFERS
Hackensack Firefighter Mike Greco works Ladder 2's aerial ladder operation during a commercial building multiple-alarm fire on Main Street, May 16th.
Just days after being released from COVID-19 quarantine, Hackensack Deputy 2 Pete Danzo was back at work for a multiple alarm on Main Street, May 16th.
In these days of departments changing frequencies and trying to keep up, Jersey City 2nd Battalion Chief Pete Griese wears two portable radios for his city and Bayonne during a mutual aid 4th-alarm in Bayonne, where most of the 2nd Battalion companies operated, May 14th.
Allendale Assistant Chief Robert Policht directs operations at the command post during a 2-alarm house fire on West Crescent Ave., May 3rd.
Bergen County Mutual Aid Coordinator Joe Alvarez, left, assisted Hackensack Deputy Chief John Taylor at the mutual aid fire on Main St., May 16th. Several nearby fire departments operated at the scene, and additional out-of-town companies re-located to cover the city.
RON JEFFERS
DAMIEN DANIS
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
RON JEFFERS
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Vehicle News
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Eight Residents Displaced in Paterson
RON JEFFERS
Union City EMS Special Operations Unit 1 is a Polaris ASAP model used for parades and other functions involving the city's many narrow streets.
Paterson, NJ - At least eight residents were left without a place to live after fire struck their apartment building in Paterson on May 8th. Shortly before dawn at about 4:30, fire units were dispatched to 47 Morris St. for the working fire. Heavy fire was venting out of a window on the 'B' side, threatening the exposure building. Lines were stretched and Ladder 2 vented the roof and soon had the visible fire knocked down. Companies opened up on all floors and attic and halted any extension. The fire was placed under control in about one hour. It was reported that four children and four adults were assisted by Red Cross. The exposure building suffered exterior damage only. Investigators were on the scene to determine the cause.
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New York Rescues (3) VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
New York Rescues (3) 5 DVD Set By Advanced Print & Video Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street Hudson, MA -01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire.police.ems.com Price: $69.95
This is the third disk of the set of five and features Rescue 3, which covers the Bronx and three battalions in Manhattan. Like the other two previously reviewed, it is 60 minutes in length and starts off with the same introduction sung by Fontana Bass. A second brief presentation follows, featuring fires of the past. At this point the viewer may think that he or she has the wrong disk, but low and behold it eventually gets to Rescue 3 footage. Unlike the first two disks where a member of the company introduces himself and orients the viewer about the responsibilities of the rescue unit, this disk does not have a formal introduction.
You will see fires and collapses that the company responded to during 1998 and 1999, and see a training session on the search cam which is a long instrument used to be inserted within a collapse area to search for life and other conditions. Also is a tour of the inventory of the collapse unit, which is the second section of Rescue 3 which is a tractor-drawn vehicle. One of the collapses is in lower Manhattan involving a parking garage in which some 50 cars were destroyed. Heavy equipment was brought in to retrieve the cars and each had to be searched for possible casualties or fatalities. A second collapse of the building under repairs is featured. There is an explanation about the symbols on vacant buildings for instance and what each signifies to the Fire Department regarding entry or non-entry. The fire scenes include a multi-storied brick dwelling which appears to be vacant and has heavy fire through the roof but nothing showing on the lower floors. Other fires include a commercial business which actually burned twice within two months, an auto repair shop and other major fires. Radio transmissions can be heard and there is a brief announcement of when the incident was, where it was and what is involved. The next disk will feature Rescue Company 4.
OLD AND NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our Old and New feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
New Milford Truck 31's 2002 Pierce Arrow XT 100-foot Ascendant platform, left, has replaced their veteran 1988 Mack/75-foot Aerialscope.
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DEPARTMENT PROFILE
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our Working Faces feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
As the sun sets over Hackensack, Firefighter Mickey Golabek, of Ladder Co. 1, takes a water break during a smoky commercial building fire on a warm May 16th evening.
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
As residents and businesses have posted signs thanking first responders during the pandemic, Secaucus Engine Co. 1 members have placed a sign in front of their quarters in appreciation of all front line workers.
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ACTION SHOT If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
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Early Morning Blaze Damages Tenafly Home
Tenafly, NJ - A fire that appeared to have started in the rear sunroom of a Tenafly home spread to a second floor bathroom before being extinguished on May 12th. Flames and heavy smoke were visible on arrival from the rear of 70 Woodland Park Dr. as the first fire units arrived at about 5:30 A.M. Mutual aid from Englewood and Dumont were called to the scene. Three lines were stretched and firefighters were quickly able to knock down the visible fire that had gutted the rear enclosed sunroom, extended through the roof and scorched the exterior of the second floor and entered the walls. Members opened up the second floor bathroom walls and stopped the fire spread. The fire was placed under control in less than one hour. No injuries were reported.
On 4/28/20 the Mountainside FD responded to a landscape truck fire on Summit Road. The vehicle and trailer rolled downhill about 200', striking a police car that was blocking the lane. JOHN A. CALDERONE
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Richland's Utility Has Many Uses
In Atlantic County in Buena Vista Township the Richland Fire Company’s Utility 12-15 has many duties. The vehicle has a 2013 International TerraStar chassis with a 1997 Reading body. The original 1997 chassis was heavily damaged with a cracked frame after a collision, but the body was salvageable. Hence the newer chassis. Some of the features include an on-board 6500 watt diesel generator, Will Burt Night Scan, six ton winch and four cylinder air cascade system. Inventory includes ice and water rescue equipment, survival suits, PFD’s, an electric Jaws setup (to back up the rescue truck), and a trailer with a generator and trash pump for dewatering operations. Shown next to the truck is a 2015 Lowe 16foot flat bottom boat with a Yamaha 20 hp engine. The truck also transports the dive team, as they are a backup for the Hamilton Township Dive Team. The area is considered recreational with lakes, ponds and gravel pits (also known as blue holes), with potential for water related incidents. Many thanks go out to Chief Tony Monfredo and Dennis Sharpe for information provided. Among the rest of the photos are two Seagrave apparatus from Asbury Park. One is a new pumper on a Marauder chassis and the other is a rebuilt former New York City rear-mount which originally saw service with Ladder 137 in Queens. We also have a massive heavy rescue in the Hurffville FC in Washington Township (Gloucester County). It has a massive 40-foot, two inch body length of non-walk-in design. Unseen from the exterior is a 300-GPM Hale pump. The body is built by Custom Fire. Next we have an ambulance from the Clinton First Aid and Rescue Squad in Hunterdon County. It is a P.L. Custom Medallion Type III and it is the last one to have “Clinton” name on it. Due to a merger involving the High Bridge Emergency Squad, the new name will be the South Branch Emergency Services. North Brunswick Company 3 recently replaced their 75-foot quint with an E-ONE 105-foot quint and it is featured this month as well. The last photo featured this month is of a Spartan ER pumper for the Highland Chemical Engine Company in the Boro of Pitman (Gloucester County). I was told that the fire company enlisted the various talents of their members to do extensive additional work on the vehicle after delivery to include tool mounting, panel installations in the compartments and modifications which permitted additional equipment storage. They are gradually adding new inventory to eventually make it a candidate to be a squad. Some features include a Metro Star chassis, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Hale Qmax 1500-GPM pump, Pro Poly 750-gallon water tank, Harrison 6 kw generator, Whelen scene lighting, a Hurst Tool, ROM roll-up- compartment doors, and a TFT Blitzfire hand held monitor. Midwest Fire Tanker has delivered a pumper/tanker to the Oxford Township VFD (Warren County). It was a factory direct sale. Features include a Freightliner M2, 112 chassis, Waterous CSU, 1250GPM split shaft pump, five-inch front intake, 3000-gallon APR poly tank, two 2 ½-inch direct tank fills, three 10-inch Newton square dump valves, Zico portable tank carrier with 3,000-gallon portable tank, oneinch Hannay booster reel, Rear View Safety camera and Whelen scene and telescoping lights. It has an all poly constructed body. The overall height is nine-feet, nine-inches Please send any comments or news tidbits you might have about Apparatus of the Month to us at 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or you can e-mail them to Apparatus@1stResponderNews.com.
APPARATUS OF THE MONTH A look at what’s new with apparatus around the state with John Malecky
Washington Township, Hurffvile FC, R-1038, 2019 Spartan Gladiator/Custom Fire, 300/300, 12 kw generator, 4 ton portable winch and 6 ton front winch. It has a 40-foot two inch body.
JOHN M. MALECKY
Richland's Utility 12-15, 2013 International TerraStar with 1997 Reading body and 2015 Lowe flat bottom boat with 20 hp Yamaha motor.
JOHN M. MALECKY
Clinton First Aid & Rescue Squad A-45-52, 2020 Ford E-450/P.P. Custom Medallion. It was sold by New Jersey Emergency Vehicles.
JOHN M. MALECKY
JOHN M. MALECKY
Asbury Park E-75, 2020 Seagrave Marauder with 2000-GPM pump and 500-gallon water tank. It was sold by Seagrave Sales & Service.
North Brunswick FC 3, Truck 3, 2019 E-ONE Cyclone 1500/300 with HP-105 aerial. It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection.
JOHN M. MALECKY
JOHN M. MALECKY
Asbury Park 1999 Seagrave TB with 100-foot aerial and 8 kw generator. It is X-FDNY L-137. It was sold by Seagrave Sales & Service.
and overall length of 34 ½ feet. In dealer news, VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists reports that Stafford Township EMS in Manahawkin (Ocean County) received a Horton 553A Type III ambulance on a Ford E-450 chassis. Also, the Millville FD (Cumberland County) took delivery of two Horton 603 Type I ambulances on Ford F-550, 4x4 chassis and Wall Township Police EMS (Monmouth County) has ordered a Horton 553 Type III ambulance on a Ford E-450 chassis. Firefighter 1 has delivered to North Plainfield (Somerset County) a Ferrara Cinder pumper with an extruded aluminum body, Hale Qmax 1500-GPM pump with side mount panel and a 750-gallon water tank. Some additional information has been sent about the previously delivered Frankford pumper (Sussex County). It has a 1100gallon water tank (instead of 1000) and a Foam Pro system. Emergency Equipment Sales & Service received an order from the Delanco EMS (Burlington County) for an Excellance remount of a 2007 Horton module onto a new Ford E-450 chassis which will also include repairs and updates. Absolute Fire Protection has delivered to
Elmwood Park FC 3, an E-ONE mini pumper on a Ford F-550 chassis. It has a 1250-GPM pump and 300-gallon water tank. Fair Lawn FC 2 has ordered an E-ONE HR-100 single axle aerial ladder with 1750GPM pump and 500-gallon water tank. Lodi has ordered a rescue pumper and a topmount pumper both on Typhoon chassis. All are in Bergen County. Fire & Safety Services reports the following Pierce orders: for Linden (Union County) an Enforcer pumper and for the Flanders FC in Mt. Olive Township (Morris County) an Arrow XT Ascendant midmount tower. Pierce deliveries include in Bergen County, a Saber pumper to Ridgewood and an Arrow XT pumper to Dumont. The Montgomery Fire District 1/Belle Mead FC (Somerset County) received a Velocity 100-foot rear-mount platform; Mullica Township/Elwood FC (Atlantic County), a Saber dry side tanker; the City of Jersey City (Hudson County) three Enforcer pumpers and Hamilton Township Fire District 8 (Mercer County) an Enforcer pumper. New Jersey Emergency Vehicles has delivered to University Hospital EMS in Newark (Essex County) a rescue with a 16foot three-inch walk-around body on a
Highland Chemical Engine Co. of Pitman, E-2831, 2020 Spartan ER Metro Star, 1500/750 with 6 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC JOHN M. MALECKY
Freightliner M2 chassis. They were prepping for the Township of Medford EMS (Burlington County) a P.L. Custom Medallion Type III ambulance on a Ford E-450 chassis. Seagrave Sales & Service has delivered a pumper and truck to Asbury Park in Monmouth County, (see photos). The specs on the pumper include a Marauder chassis, stainless steel cab and body, 165.5 inch wheelbase, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Waterous CSUC20E, 2,000-GPM pump, Waterous rotary valves with flow meters, Pro Poly 500-gallon water tank, sixinch front intake, Akron Apollo deck gun, one-inch booster line, two 1 ¾-inch crosslays, an Elkhart RAM hand held monitor and Whelen brow and scene lighting. The ladder truck is a 1999 model with 233 inch wheelbase, 100-foot aerial and eight kw generator (X-FDNY). Mahwah FC 3 (Bergen County) ordered a pumper. Specs include a
Marauder chassis, stainless steel cab and body, eight seats, Waterous CMU, 2000GPM pump, 750-gallon L-Type tank, FRC lighting and a Cummins 500 hp diesel engine. Brielle ordered a pumper on a Capital chassis. Specs include a 142.6 inch cab, with six seats and nine-inch raised roof, 1750GPM pump with 48-inch panel, 650-gallon water tank, 139-inch long body, sidemounted ground ladders and a 200-foot booster line, and Goodwill Hose Company 1 in Belmar signed a contract for a Fastrack Series pumper. It will have a 141-inch Marauder stainless steel full tilt heavy duty cab, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine with engine brake, Intelex Plus wiring system, Waterous 1750-GPM pump, 750-gallon water tank, stainless steel body, extended bumper with front intake and discharge, FRC scene lighting and an enclosed ladder tunnel through the rear (both Monmouth County).
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