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Dumont firefighters made quick work of a fire at 36 Merritt Ave. The fire, which was reported around 6:30 p.m., was venting from two windows on the second floor as units arrived on scene. Dumont Engine 3 arrived first on scene and stretched an attack line though the side door up to the second floor. - See full story on page 55
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May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
SHARON E. SIEGEL
Englewood Engine 2's E-One pumper supplying water and using its light tower during the thre-alarm fire at the First Presbyterian Church on March 22nd.
Old barn prompts four alarm response in Montague Montague, NJ. Firefighters from multiple fire departments across the region were on scene for several hours battling a March 29th four alarm fire in an old barn in Montague. Additional resources and tanker transports were also called as of late evening. The barn, located at 112 River Road approximately three miles outside of Port Jervis, NY, presented difficulty to firefighters in getting enough water shuttled from nearby water sources to the offroad structure’s location. Very windy conditions and difficulty in accessing the wooded, remote area made shuttling water to the site difficult. Departments from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania were on scene as additional manpower
JUMP TO FILE #032916117 and resources were called for. Montague Fire Department Chief Ryan Riegel said he placed a fourth alarm to gain additional manpower and water transport to the scene. Explosions could be heard coming from the burning barn as some of the items stored in the barn caught fire and burnt. Land lines and aerial hoses were trained upon the blaze to prevent nearby trees, structures, and items around the barn from burning. As of 10 p.m., a large stretch of River Road remained closed to most traffic as fire apparatus continued to transport water from var-
ious sources to the scene. Dozens of fire units remained on scene still battling the blaze until nearly 3 a.m. the following morning. Nineteen agencies and fire departments, from three states, responded to the Montague barn fire. These were (from NJ) Montague, Sandyston, Branchville, Frankford, Wantage, New Jersey State Fire Service, New Jersey State Police, Blue Ridge Rescue Squad, and the Sussex County Fire Marshal. Units from NY included Port Jervis, Huguenot, Cuddebackville, Sparrowbush, Greenville, Mount Hope, Otisville, and Unionville. Milford, Westfall, and Dingmans Township responded from PA.
RON JEFFERS
"World Renowned" East Rutherford Engine 3's Sutphen quint operates at a smoky multiple-alarm fire in a Lyndhurst recycling plant on November 26, 2015.
- SHARON SIEGEL
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
Jersey City Engine 19's 2007 American LaFrance 1500-gpm pumper operating at a two-alarm apartment house fire on Bergen Avenue, January 20th.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Perth Amboy Ladder 1 operating at a vacant dwelling fire on Broad St.
Bayonne Truck 2’s 1999 Seagrave / 95’ Aerialscope works on a fatal multiple alarm fire on July 11th that tore through an apartment building.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
Morris County first responders honored for bravery
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CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 23 No. 5 - 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 A division of: s a m e month of publication.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Morristown, NJ. It’s the stuff reality television is made of, but it was real. A Hanover Township police officer positioned his patrol vehicle in the path of a drunk driver traveling at high speed to prevent other officers and civilians from being struck. Police officers and firefighters rescuing victims from burning homes in three incidents. Police officers rendering care to people trapped in burning cars. The public safety professionals, volunteer and paid, who performed these and other gallant rescues will be honored April 28 by the 200 Club of Morris County, an organization of individuals who support first responders. Police officers, firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians who put their lives at risk earn the Valor Award. Those whose work was above and beyond the call of duty are awarded the Meritorious Award. A total of 39 public safety providers will receive honors. “We’re very lucky to have individuals like these keeping us safe here in Morris County,” said James M. Gannon, president of the 200 Club. “It’s an honor to recognize their good work.” Among those honored this year are: Northern New Jersey EMS Communications Dispatcher JoAnn Mellor; Saint Clare’s Hospital paramedics James Correale and Sarah Crellin; and Denville Fire Department Assistant Chief Kevin Andreano, Firefighter/EMT Kyle Colin, First Aid Lieutenant Travis Dean, First Aid Captain Bill Keating, Past Deputy Fire Chief Edward Saniewski, and Assistant Fire Chief Chris Seugling. This group
JUMP TO FILE #032416106 of people came together in response to a possible drowning of a 13-year-old boy in a pool. The team worked together to resuscitate the boy, who survived with almost no ill effects. These nine first responders are receiving a Meritorious Team Award. Parsippany Fire Department District 5 members Firefighter Pat Calabrese, Past Chief David Cavaliere, Firefighter Anthony Condurso, Firefighter Carl Fales, and Lieutenant Michael Lambert. While these volunteer firefighters were preparing for the department’s weekly work session, a car pulled into the firehouse driveway. The man driving the car said his wife was unresponsive and not breathing. The firefighters immediately began caring for the woman, performing CPR and using an automatic external defibrillator, until EMTs and paramedics arrived. The woman made a full recovery. For their actions, these five firefighters are receiving a Meritorious Team Award. East Hanover Police Officers Jesse M. Novalis and Joseph A. Zeppetelli, and East Hanover Fire Capt. Joseph J. Sperli entered a home filled with natural gas and rescued a 39-year-old woman who was using the gas in a suicide attempt. Capt. Sperli then went back in the house to ensure that the gas was off and opened windows and doors to ventilate the home. Capt. Sperli was off duty at the time. Each is being presented with a Meritorious Award.
Rockaway Borough Police Officers Peter Krowiak and James Lommatzsch, and Rockaway Borough Fire Department members Second Assistant Chief Jeffrey Heintzelman, and Firefighter Robert Smith. The four men responded to a house fire in which a 75-year-old woman was inside, panicking because her disabled son was upstairs. Krowiak and Lommatzsch were first on the scene and were able to quickly rescue the woman. Officer Krowiak went back into the house through heavy smoke and heat to try to rescue the woman’s son. After tending briefly to the mother, Lommatzsch followed him in. The pair was trying to carry the man down the stairs as burning ceiling tiles fell around them and the fire intensified. Heintzelman, who responded directly to the scene and had no turnout gear, and Smith met the two police officers and assisted them with removing the handicapped, badly burned man to waiting EMS. While the mother survived the fire, the son did not. Both police officers were treated for smoke inhalation. Officer Krowiak suffered permanent damage to his nasal passages and lost his sense of smell. For their efforts, Krowiak and Lommatzsch are being awarded the Award of Valor and Heintzelman and Smith are being honored with Meritorious Awards. Valor Awards will be presented to First Assistant Fire Chief Tyler Wargo of the Flanders Fire & Rescue Co. #1 and to Mount Olive Township Patrolmen John Bevacqua and David Hering for rescuing a blind man trapped in a burning apartment. Arriving at the scene of
the apartment fire moments apart, the three learned the 86-year-old man was still inside. The police officers called to the man, but he refused to come out because he was concerned that his wife was still inside. The three men, none of them with protective clothing or breathing apparatus, moved into the smoke-filled apartment to lead the man out. Although no engine company had arrived on scene with water, Wargo tried to go back into the apartment to search for the woman. Heavy smoke and heat pushed him back. It was later confirmed that there was nobody else inside the apartment. “All of these first responders acted quickly, professionally and without regard for their own safety,” said Gannon. “Our police officers, firefighters and EMS professionals rarely get the recognition they deserve, so we’re thrilled to honor their selfless and brave work.” Since its inception in 1971, the 200 Club of Morris County has distributed more than $4.3 million in survivor benefits and scholarships to families. Survivor benefits go to families that have lost a spouse who was a police officer or state trooper, a firefighter, or an emergency medical services provider in the line of duty. The organization also recognizes the heroic actions of those who keep the public safe and secure. Information about membership in the 200 Club and its various programs is available by calling 973630-7933 or by clicking on http://200clubofmorriscounty.com. - DOUG FENICHEL
Colonia auto repair shop destroyed in blaze Colonia, NJ. Intense flames along with explosions jolted a neighborhood on the afternoon of March 11, 2016 after flames tore through an auto repair shop, gutting the entire two-bay garage. The Colonia and Avenel Fire Departments were dispatched just before 3:00 p.m. to Route JUMP TO FILE 27 for an explosion #031316110 possibly at the Ford car dealership. Responding apparatus reported a heavy column of black smoke billowing in the sky. Firefighters arrived on scene to find a one-story repair shop with vehicles inside well involved. A water supply was established and several hand lines were deployed to extinguish the flames. The bulk of the fire was darkened within 15 minutes and declared under control shortly after. The business was declared a total loss along with the vehicles inside. Middlesex County Haz-Mat was summoned to the scene to
evaluate the water runoff and contents within the building. Colonia, Avenel, Hopelawn and Rahway Fire Departments operated at the scene, while additional Woodbridge Township fire
departments covered the town during the incident. The cause of the blaze is under investigation by Colonia fire officials, but due to the extreme damage, it appears to have started
somewhere in the vehicle repair area.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
- KEITH ADDIE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Kentucky: David W. Conley, 48 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: February 10, 2016 Death Date: February 10, 2016 Fire Department: Olive Hill Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Conley fell ill from an apparent heart attack while on-duty at the fire station. Conley was treated by fellow responders and transported to the hospital in Morehead, KY, where he succumbed to his injury.
ambulance. Within two minutes of going into the bay and while on the bay floor, Larlee fell ill. Captain Larlee was treated by fellow first responders, but passed away at the scene from injuries sustained.
Pennsylvania: Earl J. Shoemaker, 68 Rank: Firefighter/Safety Officer Incident Date: March 12, 2016 Death Date: March 12, 2016 Fire Department: Eagle Fire Company #2 – Hanover Fire Department Kansas: Daniel F. Cool, 71 Initial Summary: Firefighter Shoemaker was reRank: Assistant Fire Chief sponding to the scene of a house fire on the 500 Incident Date: February 11, 2016 block of Pumping Station Road when he became ill. Death Date: February 14, 2016 The mobile air unit apparatus he was operating left Fire Department: Olive Hill Fire Department the roadway (Brunswick DR) and came to a stop Initial Summary: Assistant Fire Chief Cool re- several hundred feet away. Shoemaker, alone in the sponded to an emergency incident on the morning apparatus at the time, was rescued by local residents of February 11th. Later that day, he attended a train- and fellow first responders. He was then transported ing meeting and collapsed suddenly from a heart at- to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased tack. Chief Cool was admitted to St. Francis from a cardiac related injury. Hospital in Topeka, KS, where he succumbed to his injury early in the morning of February 14th. South Carolina: Christopher Gene Ray, 42 Rank: Firefighter II California: Shawna Lynn Jones, 22 Incident Date: March 20, 2016 Rank: Inmate Firefighter Death Date: March 20, 2016 Incident Date: February 25, 2016 Fire Department: Conway Fire Rescue Death Date: February 26, 2016 Initial Summary: Firefighter II Ray was operating Fire Department: CAL FIRE on the scene of a working residential structure fire Initial Summary: Inmate Firefighter Jones was when he was struck and killed by a fire engine. Acworking as part of a hand crew in a steep ravine on cording to a preliminary description of the incident a fire in Agoura Hills-Malibu, California, when a from the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Ray was large rock fell about 100 feet from the hillside above riding on a Conway fire engine when he fell off and and struck her in the head. Firefighter Jones was was struck as the fire truck reversed over him. The treated immediately on scene by her fellow fire- incident remains under investigation by local and fighters and quickly hoisted into a Los Angeles state authorities. County Fire Department helicopter then airlifted to UCLA Medical Center, where she succumbed to her Texas: Marco Davila, 45 injuries the following day. Thanks to firefighters on Rank: Driver/Engineer the ground combined with air attacks, the fire was Incident Date: March 23, 2016 brought under control and no structures were lost. Death Date: March 23, 2016 Investigation into the cause of the fire continues by Fire Department: Dallas Fire-Rescue Departlocal and state authorities. ment Initial Summary: Driver/Engineer Davila fell ill Maine: Peter Larlee, 57 while exercising at his residence several hours after Rank: Captain coming off of his shift at the fire department and Incident Date: March 2, 2016 within 24 hours of responding to an emergency reDeath Date: March 2, 2016 sponse incident. Davila succumbed at the hospital Fire Department: East Millinocket Fire Depart- several hours later from a nature and cause of fatal ment injury still to be determined. Initial Summary: Within one hour of responding to a medical emergency, Captain Larlee went into the fire department's engine bay to fix a mud flap on an
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May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Fitness facility asset for first responders and vets
NJ HIIT co-owner Jose Soto, right, and Bloomfield Firefighter Derek Hernandez with some of the fire service equipment used to prepare young men and woman for the fire service physical agility test, at the new North Arlington facility. RON JEFFERS
UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers
Those of you who have taken and passed the written test to get “on the job” are looking forward to preparing for the next part of the test-the physical. The NJ High Intensity Interval Training (NJ HIIT) fitness facility in North Arlington will welcome and assist you in passing the civil service type challenges. Founder and co-owner, Jose Soto, is a Millburn firefighter. He and co-owner Lou Urbarno served in the US Marines and were deployed together in 2006. Both have a passion for physical fitness and decided to bring the camaraderie and teamwork they found in the Marines into the civilian fitness world. In 2012, they opened a fitness center in Bloomfield which quickly gained popularity, and a bigger facility was needed. On March 5th, they held an open house at their new 7,700-square-foot fitness cen-
ter at 576 Ridge Road in North Arlington. Over a quarter of the current membership are made up of first responders and military veterans. Besides regular fitness plans and rehabilitation work, they have an area set up to duplicate what you will encounter on a fire department performance test. They have rolled up hose to carry, other hose to drag and carry, a fire hydrant, plus other fire service related tools. A young man or woman can prepare for, and practice going through, this course before encountering the real thing. Soto and Urbarno have a “Memorial Wall” set up for fellow marines and firefighters. Besides public safety workers, membership includes students, doctors, entrepreneurs, teachers, engineers and more. “At NJ HIIT everyone is an athlete,” Soto said. “Our aim is to help you achieve your goals through various exercise modalities.” Coaches offer modifications for beginners and progressions for advanced athletes, allowing everyone to work out at their individual level in the same group classes. Membership options are available at monthly rates in addition to individual and class pass bundles. First responders and military veterans receive a 25 percent discount at NJ
HIIT. Classes start at 6 a.m. and the final class begins at 8:15 p.m. Additional information can be found at www.NJHIIT.com. DOWNS: Two firefighters were injured at a fire on Channel Lane, Mantoloking, including the borough's fire chief, who suffered a heart attack, officials said, of the Feb. 27th blaze. Chief Larry Gilman was taken to Ocean Medical Center in Brick and was in the intensive care unit. Officials say he is out of the woods, but his anticipated extensive recovery will prevent him from getting back to his Sandy-damaged home, a family friend said. Friend Kelly Burdge said she set up a gofundme page to raise $20,000 toward the repairs of Chief's Gilman's home. UPS: Keith Weaver has been promoted to Chief of Department in Bayonne. DOWNS: At least 20 people were displaced after a four-alarm fire tore through a row of multi-family homes on West Runyon St., Newark, on Feb. 28th. Embers damaged another building on nearby Millingtion St. UPS: The second annual Revolutionary FOOLS Fire Muster and Model Show will be held at Denville Co. 1, 2 Indian Rd., Denville, on Saturday, Aug, 27th, between 9 am-3pm. DOWNS: A Greenwich Township public works building, with a fire department tanker inside, burned on the morning of March 1st. There was significant damage to the building, the tanker, two DPW trucks and a front loader inside. UPS: Newly promoted deputy fire chiefs in Bayonne are William Bartos and Stephen Peterson. DOWNS: Firefighters from five companies battled a fire in a 20year-old house in the Naversink section of Middletown on Feb. 26th. The house was set back about 300feet from the street and located at the top of a hill. Firefighters used a “mansion line,” a 300-foot supply line, to extinguish the blaze. UPS: Kenneth Bulger has been promoted to fire captain in Kearny. The department recently hired eight new firefighters. DOWNS: One person was killed in a fire that damaged a Park Place townhouse on Springfield Ave., Springfield, March 3rd. UPS: Newly promoted battalion chiefs in Bayonne are Frank Pawlowski and Robert Kleczynski. DOWNS: An elderly man died in a Mount Dashan Lane dwelling fire in Toms River on March 5th. UPS: Christopher Czuba, Alfred Liana and Michael Smith have been promoted to fire captain in Bayonne. DOWNS: An elderly woman died in a fast-moving dwelling fire on Francis St., Wrightstown, March 4th, officials said. UPS: Robert C. Bunten has been promoted to fire captain in Perth Amboy. DOWNS: A forest fire in Cumberland County, March 1st, burned four mobile homes and spread to about 75-acres of woods near Route 49, officials said.
UPS: A 53-year-old man trapped in a house fire, March 3rd, was pulled to safety by his next-door neighbor in Jefferson Twp., police said. Kenneth Nileson kicked in his neighbor's door and pulled the semiconscious man outside to safety. The victim suffered respiratory scarring and burns in the fire and was flown by medical helicopter to St. Barnabas Medical Center. DOWNS: Firefighters extinguished an early-morning fire on March 3rd at the Essex Hunt Club in Peapack-Gladstone, which houses more than 40 hounds. They were safely evacuated. UPS: The Canine Company of Wilton, CT., has donated three specially-designed pet oxygen masks to the North Plainfield Fire Department. DOWNS: A two-alarm fire damaged six cars and a car carrier at the Vince Lombardi service area on the New Jersey Turnpike, Ridgefield, March 3rd., according to battalion Chief Mike Kees. UPS: A pair of men were rescued from a Buena Vista pond by rescue workers, March 3rd. One man was treated for hypothermia after he and another man were pulled from the pond in a heavily wooded area of the township, State Police said. A number of agencies were involved, including Buena Vista EMS, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service and Richland firefighters. Rescue boats were dispatched to aid the men, who were in water up to their waists when they were found. DOWNS: Ten people were displaced by a three-alarm fire that destroyed an Avenue E home in Bayonne, Feb. 27th, and damaged an exposure. UPS: Firefighters searching a burning Hopewell Borough Elm St. dwelling, March 10th, rescued an unconscious man from the secondfloor, officials said. The victim was carried out by borough firefighters and taken to Capital Health Medical Center for treatment. DOWNS: An East Greenwich Twp. firefighter fell through a floor while battling a dwelling fire on Kings Highway, March 12th, authorities said. The firefighter partially fell through the floor and members of a rapid intervention crew pulled him to safety. He was treated at the scene and taken to a local hospital as a precaution, officials said. UPS: Hackensack Firefighters Thomas Kavanagh and Daniel Rathbun teamed up with Police Officer Manuel Tavera to assist a 29-yearold woman, Agnes Kyei, deliver a baby boy at her Catalpa Ave. home, on March 15th. DOWNS: A three-alarm fire tore through a North Day St. duplex in Orange on March 9th, calling in ten mutual aid departments, officials said. UPS: Thirty-six fire department teams from around the state participated in the NJ Firefighters Ski Race in March. Over the years, the group has raised more than $300,000, for the burn center at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. This year’s event was ex-
pected to earn $7,000, for the burn center, according to Mark Ellerson, president of the NJ Firefighter's Ski Race. DOWNS: A pick-up truck slammed into a Pennsville home on March 17th, igniting a fire that destroyed the home of a local firefighter. Police took the driver into custody and later charged him with reckless driving, tampering with an investigation and marijuana possession. UPS: Perth Amboy police and firefighters immediately rescued a 25-year-old man who jumped into the Raritan River on March 18th from the Victory Bridge, officials said. The rescue occurred when several hours of negotiating with police officers on the bridge ended with the man leaping into the water below. By that point, the city's marine units were already in place to rescue the man, Deputy Chief Lawrence Cattano said. DOWNS: Fire units from multiple area departments battled a fire that destroyed two condos at the Wyndham Place complex, on Route 34, Aberdeen, March 14th. UPS: Patrick Dolgos has been sworn in as the new fire chief in Washington Twp. DOWNS: A fast moving fire in an Orange dwelling, March 14th, took the lives of two young children and their uncle. The boy's mother was badly burned. UPS: A cat named Luna was rescued after she'd been stuck in a tight gap between two buildings on Park Ave., Rutherfod, March 22nd. Firefighters tried several options before resorting to breaking a hole in the wall. DOWNS: An apartment fire on South Broad St., Trenton, displaced multiple residents from three apartments, on March 26th. UPS: First responders rescued a man in a kayak who was stuck in the mud of the Hackensack River, March 22nd. Teaneck and Hackensack firefighters used their marine units, rope and a backboard to free the man. He was examined by the Teaneck Ambulance Corps, but was not hurt, officials said. DOWNS: Police were investigating the discovery of two people, who died of carbon monoxide poisoning in a car on Overlook Ave., Hackensack, March 26th. UPS: Five-year-old Dominic Mazzio was named honorary Burlington Township firefighter at a Board of Fire Commissioners meeting, in March. Dominic is fascinated with all things associated with the township's firefighters. He suffers from transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord that can cause spinal injury. He was diagnosed at age two. “It took him almost two-years to regain full movement, and he had to learn to walk all over again,” said his mother, Ashley Mazzio. DOWNS: One person was found dead following a fire that destroyed a North Tamarack Drive home in Brielle, March 29th. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JUSTIN DEREVYANIK
Hackensack battles second alarm On Thursday, March 31, 2016 at 9:53 a.m., members of the 2nd platoon responded to 376 1st Street for a reported fire. Upon arrival of Deputy 2, he reported smoke showing from a one story laundromat and requested a second alarm, bringing Teaneck’s FAST team and Hackensack UMC EMS to the scene along with additional city coverage. Engines 5 and 4 placed a two and a half inch hand line in service and began to extinguish the fire, which was located in the rear of the building. Ladder 3 and Rescue 1 began searches and opening up. The fire was quickly knocked down by the companies. Companies remained to check for extension and overhaul. No injuries were reported by any occupants or members. Hackensack Fire Prevention is conducting the investigation.
RON JEFFERS
In Woodbridge Township, Iselin District 9 units include L-R: Unit's 9-2-4 (1999 Seagrave 1500-gpm/100foot quint), 9-6 (2007 Seagrave 2000-gpm rescue-pumper) and 9-2 (2014 Seagrave 2000-gpm pumper).
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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UPS AND DOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
CIRONE PHOTO
Windy night in Budd Lake As the wind gusted up over 35 mph off the largest natural lake in the state, trees began to fall on March 28th. One tree fell and blocked Sandshore Road, which is a main route around the lake. Budd Lake Fire Department was dispatched to clear the tree from the roadway.
UPS: Rich Katz, Michael Christensen and Chris Annunziata have been promoted to fire captain in Hackensack. DOWNS: Five people were taken to the hospital-one in critical condition-after an explosion occurred on Chosin Few Way in Bayonne, March 30th. Workers were conducting a “pressure test of a gas line” when a “small explosion” happened, police Lt. Robert Wizbick said. Three workers and two city police officers, who were at the scene at the time of the explosion, were injured. UPS: Totowa Fire Lt. Aslon Goow rescued a pet cat from a burning Riverview Dr. home on March 31st. A family of three escaped the ranchstyle dwelling unharmed. First responders put a pet oxygen mask on the cat, Fire Marshal Allen Del Vecchio said. “The cat's doing fine,” he added. DOWNS: When North Hudson firefighters and Guttenberg police arrived at the scene of an explosion on Kennedy Blvd., March 31st, they found a 60-year-old man's hand had been blown clean off, authorities said. The police initially said they believed “some type of firework”
was accidentally discharged. UPS: New fire lieutenants in Hackensack are Michael Thomassey, Michael Oates and Jay Schlossareck. DOWNS: A 51-year-old woman was arrested on an outstanding warrant after she was in a crash with Secaucus Engine 2 in the Plaza at Harmon Meadow, March 21st, as the unit was answering a call. Police discovered that the woman had a $2,000 failure-to-appear warrant out of Jersey City. No was was injured in the collision. UPS: New firefighters in Hackensack are Jesse D'Amore, Tim Carrol and Angelo Castronovo. DOWNS: In April, the North Hudson shops decommissioned reserve Ladder 7's 1990 Seagrave 1250-gpm/ 100-foot rear mount aerial ladder. This was the last piece of apparatus from the former Weehawken Fire Department that was serving the regional department. It was the second rear mount aerial ladder quint apparatus to see duty in Hudson County. The first is still in service in East Newark, also built by Seagrave. All former Union City apparatus have been decommissioned. There are still spare units in use from the former Guttenberg, West New York and North Bergen Fire Departments.
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Rescue Systems
The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our May editions from Mid-Atlantic Rescue Systems is one free admission to their Stabilization University class in Malaga, NJ on May 15th. Our April editions winner of a Viper Wildland Nozzle from KIMTEK was Jeff Goldberg from PA. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at 845-534-7500.
North Hudson apparatus mechanic Ken Molth removes parts from spare Ladder 7 after it was decommissioned on April 1st. It was the last apparatus from the former Weehawken Fire Department being used by the regional department. RON JEFFERS
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
APRIL SUK
Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company's mini-pumper, donated by Morganville Independent Fire Company in July of 2015.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
Wantage First Aid holds fire rehab class Wantage First Aid Squad hosted a fire rehab class recently. Some two dozen students gave up their Sunday morning to attend the fire rehab class, which was held at Sussex County's Wantage Township First Aid Squad. The course was taught by EMT-P Dirk McKenney and Rourke Day. The County EMS Coordinator was on hand to describe efforts at establishing a county-wide comprehensive fire rehab program. First aid members were also given a chance to try on bunker gear and Scott packs.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Vehicle fire spreads to garage in Avenel Avenel, NJ. A single-car garage sustained heavy fire damage on March 23, 2016 after a vehicle erupted in flames inside and quickly spread to the structure, resulting in a partial roof collapse. The Avenel Fire Department was dispatched at 2:03 p.m. to 63 Manhattan Ave. for the reported vehicle fire, which was later upgraded to a vehicle on fire inside a garage. While enroute, all fire apparatus was advised that both the vehicle and garage were reported to be well involved. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire showing from the
JUMP TO FILE #032816135 front of the garage with no immediate exposure problems. Engine 5-4 established a water supply and placed a hand line into operation. The suppression crew advanced the hand line down the driveway past a vehicle and had the bulk of the flames darkened within ten minutes, but extensive overhaul of the vehicle and garage was necessary to extinguish remaining hot spots. A second hand line was
stretched, but was not placed into operations. The fire was declared under control within 30 minutes. Mutual aid fire departments from Fords, Hopelawn, Colonia, and Iselin #9 were on scene assisting, while Iselin #9 covered the town during the incident. Middlesex County HazMat Unit was summoned to the scene to evaluate hazardous materials found inside the garage. The cause and origin of the fire is being investigated by Avenel Fire Official Cory Spillar. - KEITH ADDIE
ALL IN THE FAMILY If you have photos you would like to see in our “All In The Family” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Irvington Ladder 41, a 1999 American LaFrance 100’ rearmount prepares to set up at a fourth alarm on January 13th.
East Windsor-Spotswood, NJ. "As kids, we really didn't compete with each other, but we did everything together; still do," says Steve Genthe, chief of East Windsor Volunteer Fire Company 2, headquartered in Twin Rivers. "I was the 'middle brother' in the family." Both he and Peter, chief of the Spotswood Fire Department, were introduced to emergency services by a small radio – a fire scanner, given to them when they were very young. The pair would hear the fire calls and follow the fire engines on their bicycles. The father of nine daughters and a son, Peter also had an unwanted adrenaline rush when his 19-year old daughter, also a firefighter, sustained a serious injury battling a fire. "Thankfully, she's okay now, but it was quite a scare when it happened." he says. "We were both on the scene." While brother Steve serves as chief of Volunteer Fire Co. 2 in East Windsor, his full time job is that of a paid firefighter in Monroe Township. He's now in his 10th year. Peter has been a volunteer firefighter for two decades. Full-time, he's assistant general foreman at East Windsor's Department of Public Works. Steve and his wife, Suzanne, also drawn to emergency services as a paramedic, have a daughter. When they're not fighting fires, or spending time with their own families, the Brothers Genthe often find time to head out on their own, enjoying hunting and fishing.
DICK CUNNINGHAM
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Cliffside Park Engine 3, a 2009 Pierce 1750/500, accesses the roof of a fire building with its 61’ Skyboom at a multiple alarm in a deli.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
ADAM ALBERTI
The Pattenburg Fire Department in Hunterdon County has this 2010 Pierce Arrow XT PUC pumper in service as Engine 25-65. It has a 1500 GPM pump, 800 gallon water tank and 30 gallon foam tank.
ADAM ALBERTI
Evesham placed this 2014 Pierce Arrow XT 100' ladder tower in service as Tower 2215
ADAM ALBERTI
Evesham placed this 2014 Pierce Arrow XT 105' Rear Mount aerial in service as Ladder 2235
ADAM ALBERTI
Summit Engine 3 has this 2010 Spartan/Crimson pumper in service. It has a 1500 gpm pump, 750 gallon water tank, and 40 gallon foam tank.
May, 2016
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
OLD & NEW
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
CHRIS TUTTLE
JOHN M. MALECKY
Possumtown's Engine 632, 2016 Spartan ER pumper next to its predecessor, a 1990 Spartan Gladiator/FMC pumper. The new pumper was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.
Heavy fire on arrival in Moonachie
On Thursday, March 31st at 3:55 p.m., members of Moonachie Fire Department and South Bergen mutual aid operated at 31 Jackson Place for a fire in a garage. Heavy fire on arrival was knocked down with a deckgun and multiple hand lines. The companies were able to keep the fire from extending into the house kept the majority of damage to the exterior. Two members were injured and were being treated at Hackensack UMC for injuries from a fall. The fire started in the electrical wiring of the garage. Companies remained on scene for two hours until the investigation was complete.
RON JEFFERS
Montvale has placed into service a 2016 Pierce Arrow XT PUC model 1500-gpm rescue-pumper, left, that replaced a 1995 Spartan/Custom Fire 2000-gpm model.
@FD4D
Wantage responds to MVA EVAN WEBSTER
The Chester Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 is replaced their 1990 Pierce Dash Walk-in rescue with a 2016 Pierce Impel Heavy Duty Rescue.
Wantage Fire and EMS were at scene of an MVA on Libertyville Rd and Cherry Tree Lane on March 25. The victim elf extricated from the vehicle and refused medical attention. The cause of the accident is under investigation.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
RICHARD BILLINGS
DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
Wantage Fire Department delivers the Easter Bunny
Wantage, NJ. On March 19, 2016, residents of Wantage Township turned out on a Saturday morning for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt held at Woodbourne Park. The annual event is sponsored by the Wantage Township Recreation Department. The Easter Bunny arrived via the Wantage Fire Department, Beemerville Company. Some 500 people turned out for the event.
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Perth Amboy blaze damages store and apartments Perth Amboy, NJ. A grocery store and several apartments were heavily damaged on March 20, 2016 after an outside rubbish fire spread to the building, displacing nine people from at least two families. Perth Amboy firefighters were dispatched just before 11:00 p.m. to Chauncey St. and JUMP TO FILE State St. for the re- #032316107 ported fire. Upon arrival, heavy fire was discovered to the rear of a grocery store and church at 752 State St. Hand lines were quickly deployed to the exterior and interior of the building, but the flames appeared to have already spread to the first and second floors of the three-story taxpayer. The fire continued to travel to the third floor and eventually through the roof via void spaces. Despite the vigorous efforts, firefighters were forced to evacuate the building and conduct a defensive operation utilizing two ladder pipes and several exterior hand lines. The fire was brought under control around 3:30 a.m., but firefighters continued to pour water onto hot spots into the early-morning and day. A charred window and scorch marks were evident on the outside of the neighboring church, but the inside was not damaged. The American Red Cross was on scene to assist the families with temporary shelter and personal care items. There were no civilian injuries reported, but two firefighters sustained minor injuries and
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Helmetta Tanker 36, a 1989 FMC/Pemfab 1500,2500 tanker at a Perth Amboy multi county drill on May 31st.
was treated and released by EMS personnel. Mutual aid fire departments from Keasbey, Fords, Hopelawn, South Amboy, Sayreville and Edison responded to the scene to assist, while additional Woodbridge Township fire departments covered the
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
city during the extended incident. The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Middlesex County Fire Marshal’s office, but it appears to have started to the rear of the grocery store. - KEITH ADDIE
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
South Old Bridge Engine 7, a 1986 Mack CF/Ward 79 1250, 2800, 70 pumper/tanker takes part in a multi county drill in Perth Amboy on May 31st.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Cliffside Park Engine 6, a 1988 Ford C/Grumman 1250, 500 pumper works a fire on October 20th while on loan to the Lodi Fire Department.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Family and pets escape from Totowa fire A family escaped, pets rescued, a kitten revived, but a home was destroyed in an early morning fire in Totowa on March 31st. Firefighters were dispatched to a home at 424 Riverview Drive at about 4:00 a.m. Intense smoke and flames were showing from the front of the structure as units arrived. A couple and a child were already out of the home as well as a cat and ferret that were removed by family
JUMP TO FILE #033116141 members, but a kitten was still not accounted for. Firefighters were able to locate the unresponsive kitten in the rear of the fire building. The feline was brought outside, where it was able to be revived with the help of a special oxygen mask, which was do-
nated by local Girl Scouts. Police units also evacuated neighboring homes as a precaution. A quick hit with a deck gun allowed hose teams to advance and knock down the visible flames. The fire was able to be placed under control in about one hour, but the home had received extensive damage. The cause is under investigation. - BILL TOMPKINS
JOHN M. MALECKY
Engine 3 of the Berkeley Height VFD is this 1982 Hahn Model 84/92 pumper which they use primarily for brush and grass fires. It has a 1500 gpm pump, a 500 gallon water tank and a three kw generator.
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NEW JERSEY GIGS 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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
NEW JERSEY MEMORIES 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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
Cliffside Park Deputy Chief Dave Martone responds to fires in a 2015 Chevy Tahoe.
RON JEFFERS
Pompton Lakes' 1926 American La France pumper was part of the Newark Fire Department Historical Association's 2015 antique muster. This year, the 49th annual muster will be held on June 5th at Washington Park, 49 Washington St. Contact Captain Rich Mackey at shindigrich@gmail.com .
RON JEFFERS
In Ringwood, Erskine Lakes Fire Chief Matt Ranone answers alarms in a 2008 Ford Expedition.
RON JEFFERS
Andover Township Chief Daniel Crater operates a 2005 Dodge Durango.
RON JEFFERS
The Orange Fire Department Training Division is assigned this Dodge Durango. RON JEFFERS
East Freehold Fire Company's 1929 American La France pumper was part of the 2014 Tri-Counties Fire Assoc. annual muster at Thompson Park, Jamesburg. This year's muster will be held on June 26th. For information, contact David Napier at 732-938-2685.
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May, 2016
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Orange blaze claims three lives
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
KEN SNYDER
Ladder 2 of the Trenton, NJ FD is a 1997 Simon Duplex/100’LTI.
JOHN M. MALECKY
In Greenwich Township the Gibbstown Fire Department has in service this 2000 KME Excel quint. It has a 1500 gpm pump, 500 gallon water tank, 75 foot aerial ladder and 12 kw generator.
Three residents were killed, and several others injured as an intense, fast moving fire tore through a home in Orange early on the morning of March 14th. Orange fire JUMP TO FILE# units were dis- 031416126 patched to 251 High Street at about 5:00 a.m. Heavy fire was venting from all floors on arrival and a second alarm was transmitted. Companies quickly set up for aerial operations and several large lines were deployed. With no possibility of entering the main fire building, companies worked to keep the fire from extending to the exposure buildings and also to deal with the ember condition that was intensifying. One ladder pipe, one Squrt, and several handlines operated as the fire building collapsed from a two and a half story to a one story pile of debris with the chimney on top. The heavy fire and ember condition was knocked down in about a half hour, but lines continued to operate on what was left of the main fire building and also keeping the fire in check in the exposures. Officials worked to determine how many occupants were in the building, how many were accounted for, and how many were missing. With emotions very high, this took some time. Eventually it was determined that three persons, two children
and one adult out of the ten that were in the home, were killed in the fire. There is no initial cause deter-
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
mined yet.
- BILL TOMPKINS
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
Some of Union City's new emergency vehicles include two 2015 Ford F550/Custom Vehicle Works emergency service trucks, a 2015 GMC shops unit and a 2015 Ford Transit 350 model 12 passenger van that can be used to transport fire and other emergency victims.
RON JEFFERS
EVAN WEBSTER
The Hopelawn Engine Company No. 1 (Woodbridge Twp.) operates this 2014 Pierce Velocity 2000/750 as Engine 8-2.
North Hudson Engine 4's new Pierce is hooked up to a hydrant in front of the old 43rd Street firehouse in Union City, during a major gas line rupture. The former firehouse was the home of Union City Engine 4 and Truck 3, followed by North Hudson Engine 5 after the regional department was organized. Engine 5 was re-located and the building is now the home of the Union City Motorcycle Squad and Emergency Service Unit. Above the bay door are the remains of "Columbia Engine Co. 2" lettering for the former Union Hill Volunteer Fire Department, pre-1925.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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Two rescued in Union blaze
High winds hampered fire fighting conditions
PROVIDED
Three town homes destroyed during blizzard Brigantine Fire Department Engine 1, Truck 1 and BLS Rescue 3 responded in the early morning hours of January 23rd for a reported working structure fire in an occupied three-story, three unit, townhouse. An offensive attack was made to the third floor, but crews were forced back due to the volume of fire that had already advanced in to the roof and attic. Off duty personnel were called in and responded in Engine 3 and Utility truck SR-2. Atlantic City FD mutual aid was requested, which consisted of Battalion 1, Engine 2, and Ladder 1. Blizzard conditions with wind gusts of up to 50 mph made fire-
JUMP TO FILE #031416131 fighting conditions very difficult. Multiple two and a half inch hand lines and blitz lines were used to protect exposures and confine the fire to the building of origin. Once elevated master streams were put into position, the fire was knocked down and put under control. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours wetting down hotspots. Once cat was lost in the blaze but another was rescued. - PAUL FULLER
A raging three alarm fire swept through a large four family home in Union on March 9th that injured two residents, and left the structure gutted. The fire, which was reported shortly a.m. at 318 Ohio St, was heavily involved on the second floor JUMP TO FILE# when firefighters ar- 030916101 rived. First due firefighters reported an explosion, possibly contributed to an oxygen tank, occurring as they pulled up. Members from Engine 2 rescued a man from the porch, and an elderly woman from the first floor as lines were being stretched. Heavy fire quickly extended to the first floor and up to the attic and soon through the roof of the structure. The intense flames melted the siding on the exposure D building and extended to the building, but firefighters were able to hold the damage to a minimum. Additional alarms brought companies from Union and Essex counties to the scene and to cover. Lines were stretched from the street in the rear through backyards to hit the flames on the C side. One ladder pipe was operated as well as two Stangs and several handlines as the fire was slowly darkened down. A collapse zone was established due to the structural instability.
The fire was contained in less than two hours with the main fire building a total loss and relatively minor structure damage to the exposures. The two residents were treated
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
for injuries, but they were not considered serious.
- BILL TOMPKINS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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FLASHBACK
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PROVIDED
From the Borough of Roosevelt Historical Collection: Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company's 1949 American LaFrance in the 1974 Fourth of July parade.
As conditions began to worsen, a defensive operation was established.
RON JEFFERS
Another holiday fire for Lyndhurst area firefighters PROVIDED
Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company's 1960 FWD and 1949 American LaFrance, taken in 1983 before the Fourth of July Parade.
PROVIDED
Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Company, circa 1945. Fire Chief Mark Klatskin unhooking the hard suction hose from the pump and Leon "Frenchie" Vasseur Sr. on top filling the water tank.
Lyndhurst, N.J. Another holiday and another fire in this Bergen County municipality. That's what some were saying on the fire ground during the Good Friday multiple alarm blaze that gutted a Stuyvesant Avenue building on March 25th. These same firefighters battled a long-duration third alarm at a recycling business on Thanksgiving, 2015. At around 4:35 p.m., Lyndhurst fire units were dispatched to reported fire at 215 Stuyvesant Avenue. Upon arrival, they found flames venting out of display windows in a twostory wood-frame structure with a dentist office and vacant store area on the ground floor, plus apartments above. Flames began to melt the front bumper and headlight of a parked auto. The only exposure problem was on the D side, a one-story attached commercial building. Chief
JUMP TO FILE #032816102 Paul F. Haggerty struck a secondalarm, later followed by a thirdalarm. Flames quickly spread to the second-floor and consumed the entire structure. A wide column of smoke became visible across the Meadowlands, and as far as Union City. At the scene, low-banking smoke made it difficult to see the structure, and the exposure, on the Stuyvesant Avenue side. East Rutherford Engine 3's quint apparatus had plenty of room in a rear lot to set up their 75-foot aerial ladder for a ladder pipe operation, as flames broke through the roof. Interior firefighters were removed from the building as conditions began to worsen. Exterior hand-lines were used around the structure as well as
Engine 1's deck gun on Stuyvesant Avenue. A local fire official said a masonry wall between the fire building and Exposure D, occupied by a dry cleaner business, prevented the fire from spreading. The stubborn fire was suppressed with the help of mutual aid fire companies from Rutherford, East Rutherford, North Arlington and Carlstadt. In addition, the Moonachie Rescue Squad dispatched their rehab unit to the scene. Bottled water was dispensed to members around the fire scene by EMS personnel. East Rutherford Firefighter Kevin Felton was treated for minor injuries and returned to duty. Another example of dedicated volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel leaving their homes and families on a holiday to serve their community. - RON JEFFERS
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Flames broke through the roof as Engine 1's deck gun was placed into operation on smoke-filled Stuyvesant Avenue.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
CIRONE PHOTO
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Perth Amboy handles vacant dwelling fire Perth Amboy, NJ. Firefighters battled the rain and heavy fire during the early morning hours of March 14, 2016 after a blaze broke out in a vacant house that has sat boarded up for at least ten years. The Perth Amboy Fire Department was dispatched at 3:46 a.m. in the area of Broad and High Streets for the reported smoke condition. Police officers arrived on scene and advised the fire department that they had heavy fire showing from the rear of a twostory dwelling at 47 Broad St. Firefighters arrived shortly after and recognized an exposure problem on the D Side of the fire building. A two and a half inch hand line was advanced down the B Side of the building to gain ac-
JUMP TO FILE #031516111 cess to the rear yard, which was the best vantage point to protect the exposure and darken some of the flames until additional hand lines could be stretched. Exterior hand lines along with a ladder pipe were utilized to extinguish the flames that eventually consumed the attic area and roof. Once the main body of fire was darkened, crews forced open the boarded up doors and windows to gain access to the building to extinguish remaining hot spots and conduct overhaul. Extreme caution was used while operating inside due to the deteriorating state of the
building. The fire was declared under control within an hour. The fire was held to the original fire building and caused no damage to the exposures. There was one minor firefighter injury reported at the scene. South Amboy, Sayreville, Keasbey, and Hopelawn Fire Departments were summoned to the scene for assistance, while Colonia, Fords and Morgan Fire Departments covered the city. Perth Amboy fire officials are investigating the cause of the fire, but it appears to have started in the rear on the second floor.
Division A gearing up for 2016 fire season The Annual District Wardens Meeting and Training was held at the Division A headquarters in Andover Saturday morning, March 5th. Just under a hundred district wardens and deputies attended this annual meeting. The main focus of this meeting wass to update wardens on the upcoming fire season as to staffing, air operations, etc. There is always a training component mixed in to bring the level of awareness of other resources available in the division. Staff from the main office in Trenton spoke about long term goals as well as the Western Program.
- KEITH ADDIE
DEPARTMENT PROFILE 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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
WTES
Truck fire at Home Depot
The Brookside Engine Company No. 1’s current fleet as of February 2016.
EVAN WEBSTER
Westampton Township, NJ. On March 30, 2016, members of Westampton Township Emergency Services A Platoon responded to Home Depot on Route 541 for a truck fire. On scene were Squad 2723, Ladder 22725, Chief 2700 and Deputy Chief 2701.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
CONNI SPELLMAN
RON JEFFERS
Hackensack and Englewood ladder pipes operate on the East Palisade Avenue side of the First Presbyterian Church on March 22nd.
CONNI SPELLMAN
CONNI SPELLMAN
CONNI SPELLMAN
Woodbridge holds 43rd Annual St Patrick's Day Parade
Sunday, March 13, 2013 was a cloudy but warm day and local residents turned out in the thousands to cheer on the participants in the 43rd annual St Patrick's Day parade. The parade, which generally lasts a few hours, did not disappoint! It included everything from bag pipe bands to boy scouts, antique autos to Sparky the fire dog, and plenty of candy for the kids. Fire departments from Woodbridge Township showed, including Avenel, Colonia, Fords, Iselin and Hopelawn. Other departments included Perth Amboy, South Amboy, and Stirling.
Flames consume Englewood church during Holy Week Englewood, N.J. Flames rose above the First Presbyterian Church of Englewood on the evening of March 22nd just days before Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Fire consumed the sanctuary section of the Gothic building that sits on a JUMP TO FILE# 032416100 four-acre site. Shortly before 8 p.m., city firefighters were dispatched to an activated fire alarm call for the church at 150 East Palisade Avenue. This was followed by a telephone report of a fire. Arriving units found heavy fire showing and a second alarm was transmitted, quickly followed by a third alarm. Flames broke through the roof of the structure, as master streams were set up. A tower ladder, ladder pipes and deck guns surround the fire. No one was in the church when the fire started near an interior balcony, according to officials. A large section of the church's roof caved in and the steeple was damaged. Several stained glass windows were broken, but the brick structure appeared to be intact. Also lost in the flames was a 4,114-pipe organ, installed in 1966. The heat melted the pipes in place, according to the church's musical director. It was Bergen County's largest. The structure was built in 1870, according to sources, and had been expanded and remodeled over the years. A dumpster was located on the East Palisade Avenue side of the building, indicating current renovation work. The church, established in 1860, was the First Presbyterian congregation in Bergen County. Pastor Richard Hong watched from across the street as firefighters battled the blaze. He said he was grateful for the outpouring of support he was receiving and was grateful for the firefighters. “I just
A large section of the church's roof caved in and the steeple damaged. RON JEFFERS
want them to be safe,� he said. Plans were started for Easter Sunday services at a different venue. It was later confirmed that Easter services would be held at Bergen PAC, according to Mayor Frank Huttle, who is the arts center chairman. In addition, Pastor Hong was making plans to see if the gym on the church's campus could be used for the congregation's home as repairs are made. The section of the structure, where Sunday school classes are held, appeared to be sound.
Mutual aid fire companies that operated at the scene came from Hackensack, Teaneck, Tenafly, Bergenfield and Leonia. There were no injuries reported during the fire, according to Englewood Deputy Chief Eric Enersen. After the sun rose over the city, a drone operated by Bergen County arson investigators hovered overhead to survey the damage. - RON JEFFERS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Avenel Engine 5-4 established a water supply and placed a hand line in operation on March 23, 2016 at a garage fire on Manhattan Ave.
RON JEFFERS
Lyndhurst Truck 1's E-One platform was used for overhaul operations on March 25th.
Fire strikes a Perth Amboy apartment building a second time in six months Perth Amboy, NJ. An in-house training seminar given by a guest speaker was cut short for Perth Amboy firefighters on March 5, 2016 when an apartment building caught fire during the class. The Perth Amboy Fire Department was dispatched at approximately 9:55 a.m. to 775 Chamberlain Ave. for a reported smoke condition. This is a familiar building for some firefighters, as there was a fire at the same location back in October that claimed the life of an elderly woman. Firefighters arrived on scene to find heavy smoke showing from
JUMP TO FILE #030716125 the one-story apartment building with flames already breaking through the roof. Hand lines were deployed to a couple of different apartments where fire conditions were found inside and above the ceiling in the roof area. The bulk of the fire was darkened quickly, but a heavy smoke condition persisted until the roof was opened along with the walls and ceilings inside the apartments. The fire was declared under control in approximately 40 minutes.
Four of the 23 units in the building were deemed uninhabitable, displacing up to nine people. The American Red Cross is assisting with relocating the four families affected. Mutual aid fire departments from Hopelawn, Keasbey, Woodbridge, South Amboy and Sayreville responded to the scene to assist. The cause of the fire is being investigated by Perth Amboy fire officials, but it appears to be accidental in nature. - KEITH ADDIE
COMMAND VEHICLES
If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Command Vehicles� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Fair Lawn Rescue 1, a 1997 Spartan / 3D Heavy Rescue stands by at the scene of a house fire on November 24th.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Woodbridge Truck 6 operating at a house fire on South Fulton St.
The West Deptford Twp. fire command uses this Ford.
KEN SNYDER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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More than 350 attend 2nd Annual NJ EMS Task Force Emergency Preparedness Expo More than 350 people who attended the 2nd Annual New Jersey EMS Task Force Emergency Preparedness Conference experienced a day of informational classes and a massive display of EMS apparatus, supplies and demonstrations. “This is the biggest event we’ve ever had,” said Mickey McCabe, one of the founding members of the New Jersey EMS Task Force. “We’re not just mutual aid ambulances,” said Task Force leader Michael Bascom. “We’re highly equipped, specially trained resources.” The 2nd Annual New Jersey EMS Task Force Emergency Preparedness Conference was held March 15, at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus and designed to show those in the healthcare provider, long-term care and first responder communities what the NJ EMS Task Force can do to help in planning for and responding to natural and manmade disasters as well as preplanned events. The NJ EMS Task Force was created in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and consists of 300 members across the state and covers 62 local agencies. The NJEMSTF has been integral in the EMS response to Superstorm Sandy, Hurricane Irene, wildfires, nursing home evacuations and for such pre-planned events as the Super Bowl and the Bamboozle concert. Cathleen Bennett, Acting Commissioner of the NJ Department of Health, pointed out that behind the scenes, the NJEMSTF is constantly creating response plans for threats throughout the state, and some of that she experienced first hand with the organization’s work for the visit of Pope Francis in September. “The Task Force, quite frankly, is all about individuals coming together for a great team effort,” said Christopher Rinn, assistant commissioner, NJ Department of Health. “You have never let us down, no matter what the call is, no matter what the situation.” The event included classes on such topics as responding to an active shooter and developing a rescue task force, from Reed Smith, MD, FACEP with the Arlington County Fire Department, Virginia; a history of combat medicine and how to translate it to the every day responses by Lt. Col. Stephen Rush, MD, Medical Director, United States Air Force Pararescue Squadron; hospital and healthcare facility evacuations from Rick Sposa BA, NREMT-P, EMS Operations Coordinator at Jersey City Medical Center-Barnabas; and the response to the Amtrak train derailment presented by Samantha Phillips, Deputy Director of Emergency Management for City of Philadelphia and Mark R. Ross, Regional Manager, Hospital & Health System of Pennsylvania. Also, Sgt. Adam Hartswick of the United States Army, who lost
JUMP TO FILE #032816151 both legs when he stepped on an improvised explosive device while helping wounded soldiers in Afghanistan shared with a packed room of first responders and healthcare staffers how he instructed a platoon leader how to use tourniquets to save his life on the battlefield. Hartswick’s session included dramatic footage of the rescue mission to save him and others, which had never before been shown to the public. Dr. Rush shared his experiences with attendees his experiences as the medical director with the Pararescue Squadron of the USAF, where members attend for rescues in all conditions around the globe. “I’m here to share what we’ve learned the hard way in American blood,” Rush said. Rush urged attendees to master the basics “through repetition of process.” He also said the culture of the first responder needed to include physical fitness. Carrying one patient is tough, but over the course of an MCI, responders would have to carry multiple patients. “If you don’t train for it, there’s no way you’re going to do it without being hurt,” Rush said. Dr. Smith discussed with attendees the differences between battlefield tactics and how to translate them to street medicine, specifically with tactical teams in active shooter situations. He also stressed providing public access trauma kits, because the first people on the scene can be critical to the survival rate at an MCI or active shooter. “To improve survival, you have to look at all the gaps,” Smith said. “Better coordination. Better tactics. Better medicine.” In addition to the display of various response equipment and vehicles, attendees also witnessed a helibase discussion by Mike Carrig, a critical care flight paramedic, the arrival of a NorthSTAR Medevac, and a vehicle extrication demonstration. Many of the assets on hand were used during the NJEMSTF’s response to Superstorm Sandy, which is widely considered one of the largest disasters in New Jersey history. The NJEMSTF provided equipment and staff around the clock for two weeks after the storm devastated portions of the shoreline. “I can’t even imagine what the state would be like without the Task Force in hurricane Sandy,” said John Grembowiec, chairman of the NJEMSTF. “I would challenge anyone to say we haven’t used our grant funds wisely.” McCabe took a moment to praise the women and men who volunteer for the Task Force. “They are the best kept secret,” McCabe told attendees, “and they’re only a phone call away.” “The Expo planning committee, EMSTF Leadership and Module managers, really worked hard
John Grembowiec, chairman of the NJEMSF
RICHARD HUFF
Cathleen Bennett, Acting Commissioner of the NJ Department of Health
Sgt. Adam Hartswick
to put this event together,” said Neel Mehta, NRP, NJMICP, a state planner with the NJEMSTF and the conference organizer,
RICHARD HUFF
RICHARD HUFF
who thanked his team for their hard work and dedication to the project. “It’s going to be interesting to see how we can top this
one.”
- RICHARD HUFF
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
ROMAN ISARYK JR
Fairfield Engine 2, a 1997 Pierce 2000 / 750 / 50 puts its deck gun to work at a multiple alarm commercial building fire on October 31st.
30 plus acres burn along the Garden State Parkway Just before 1 p.m. on March 30th, a brush fire was reported along the Garden State Parkway at milemarker 48 in the southbound lane. New Jersey Forest Fire Service along with fire companies from Atlantic, Burlington and Ocean Counties responded. NJSP shut down one lane of the parkway as the fire was spreading fast. The fire was aided by wind gusts over 25 mph. The fire was contained about three hours later and NJFFS started to release the companies. NJFFS remained on scene to hit hot spots. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Passaic Engine 6, a 1987 Mack CF, Ward 79 1250, 500 supplies lines at a multiple alarm house fire on January 19th.
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APPARATUS IN ACTION
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TODD HOLLRITT
Smoke showing
T DEVINE
Firefighter injured during duplex fire Brigantine, NJ. Early Saturday morning, March 5th, six firefighters under the command of Acting Captain Paul Fuller responded at 12:26 a.m. in Engine 1, Truck 1 and BLS Rescue 3 for a report of smoke coming from a home in the 200 block of 8th Street South. Upon their arrival two minutes later, the crew found heavy smoke coming from the front of the home, a two story residential structure, at 243 8th Street South, with heavy fire showing inside. The structure was unoccupied and undergoing renovations at the time of the call. The Engine 1 crew of Lieutenant//EMT Trevor Cohen extended a fire attack line through the front door of the structure and extinguish the bulk of the flames on the first floor, while simultaneously, Firefighter/EMT’s Zach Laielli and Kyle Fitzgerald extended a fire attack line to the rear second floor, and began to extinguish fire that had ex-
JUMP TO FILE #032016116 tended to that floor, as well as ventilate the smoke and heat from the structure, giving the firefighters inside better visibility and a better ability to fight the fire. The fire was brought under control in about 25 minutes. Members stayed on the scene for a little more than three hours, searching for hidden fire, performing salvage and overhaul, as well as starting the fire investigation. This was an older home, which had many hidden voids, where personnel had to search to make sure the fire was completely extinguished. The residence sustained heavy fire, smoke and heat damage on the first and second floors, as well as the attic, with damage estimated at about $100,000. Crews from both Atlantic City
Electric and South Jersey Gas arrived on scene and shut off utilities to the entire structure. One firefighter was injured during the course of the fire, but remained on scene working, and was later treated and released from Atlantic Care Regional Medical Center. The fire was investigated by Fire Inspector Mike Lange Jr., and is still under investigation. Nine additional off duty firefighters were called in to assist at this call and to cover the rest of the island while this fire was in progress, including a cardiac emergency that occurred on a different part of the island, while Firefighters were still on scene at 8th Street. Atlantic City FD Engine 2 also responded to cover the station during this call. - Captain Joe Maguire
With a large crowd of of people along the parade route, and plenty to watch in the line of march, the 65th West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade wound it’s way through Main Street on March 13th. Here is the hosting town West Orange, Ladder 1 a 2015 Pierce Arrow XT 100' at the event.
Rutherford and East Rutherford ladders operating at house fire in Rutherford.
EDDIE PFEIFER
- JOE MAGUIRE, PAUL FULLER
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
EDDIE PFEIFER
Elizabeth Ave Franklin Township Ladder 26 operating at Structure Fire in South Bound.
EVAN WEBSTER
The Chester Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 still operates this 1990 Pierce Dash Walk-In Rescue. Rescue 5 has served Chester for over 25 years
ROMAN ISARYK
Engine 9 out of Camden working a three alarm job back in January 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
The structure is deemed a total loss
COURTESY OF PAUL FULLER
Brigantine home fully involved on arrival Brigantine, NJ. Early Sunday morning, March 13th, six firefighters under the command of Acting Captain Paul Fuller responded at 5:10 a.m. in Engine 1, Truck 1 and BLS Rescue 3 for a report of a structure fire in the 100 block of 45th Street South. Upon their arrival four minutes later, the crew found heavy flames coming from both floors of a two story, split level residential structure, at 118 45th Street South. The structure was unoccupied at the time of the call, and was fully involved with flames coming from multiple windows, as well as through the roof of the structure as members arrived on the scene. The Engine 1 crew of Lieutenant/EMT Kyle Driscoll and Firefighter/EMT Rick Derrickson extended a large diameter fire attack line to protect the home on the right side of the structure, while Firefighter/EMT’s Tom Cooker and Kyle Fitzgerald extended a second large
JUMP TO FILE #032016117 diameter attack line to protect the home on the left side of the fire building, which was also simultaneously evacuated of the occupants, and had already started to show signs of damage from the intense heat. Once the adjoining structures were protected with hose streams, FF/EMT Greg Goff was able to direct the master stream from the deck gun on Engine 1 onto the fire building. Off duty members of the department arrived shortly after this attack commenced, and Acting Captain Chris Solari, along with FF/EMT’s Trevor Cohen, Bill Kuchinsky and Steve Sooy were able to deploy a large diameter fire attack line, along with additional 1.75-inch attack lines to the rear of the structure, and the fire was quickly brought under control, less than 30 minutes after the ar-
rival of the first units. Members stayed on the scene for a little more than four hours, wetting down hot spots, as well as performing the fire investigation. The entire residence sustained heavy fire damage, and is considered a complete loss, with damage estimated at over $300,000. Crews from Atlantic City Electric, South Jersey Gas and members of the Brigantine Water Department arrived on scene and shut off utilities to the property. The fire is still under investigation, led by Fire Investigator Lieutenant Peter Frugoli. Additional off duty Brigantine firefighters were called in to assist at this call and to cover the rest of the island while this fire was in progress. Atlantic City FD Engine 2 also responded to cover the station during this call.
JOHN M. MALECKY
Possumtown's ERU-635, 1999 Freightliner FL-70/Smeal with 25 kw generator and air cascade unit.
Stirling Engine 22
CONNI SPELLMAN
- JOE MAGUIRE, PAUL FULLER
ON THE LITER SIDE
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Perth Amboy Engine 1
CONNI SPELLMAN
JOHN HARRIOTT, SR.
Logo of possum squirting water is on Possumtown's new Spartan ER pumper.
JOHN M. MALECKY
Harris Gardens Fire Company runs with a 2014 Dodge 4X4 Brush Truck 300 gallon water; 10 gallon class A foam. 11hp Honda (CET) pump 72 GPM 300ft.of 1.75 ; 100ft foot booster, 200 ft of 1.0. Forestry Tools, portable 4000 watt generator.
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Witmer Public Safety Group announces the passing of Robert “Bob” Hlavacek It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Robert Hlavacek, who most of you probably know as Bob. Bob passed away on March 10, 2016 after an arduous battle with Muscular Dystrophy. After graduating from West Chester University in 1989 with a B.S. in Marketing, Bob held several roles that showed his absolute passion for marketing—from acting
JUMP TO FILE #031116132 Junior Partner and Partner of Pennsylvania-based marketing firms, to Campaign Coordinator and Business Director of Canine Partners for Life, a non-profit provider of canine service dogs for individuals with disabilities.
WITMER PUBLIC SAFETY GROUP
Bob’s incredible knowledge and drive to succeed was evident in all of his conversations; he truly didn’t miss a beat. For the last ten years, Bob worked for Witmer Public Safety Group (WPSG), serving in both the Marketing Supervisor and Public Relations Specialist roles. Bob was instrumental in the growth of WPSG through his development of the Marketing Department, and the phenomenal relationships he established with our advertising partners and vendors have continued to be exemplary of Bob’s level of dedication to the success of WPSG. “Bob was such an integral part of our company’s growth since he came onboard in 2005,” said WPSG Chief Executive Officer James Witmer. “He brought so much knowledge to the table, was willing to learn new things, and he pushed the boundaries of our marketing capabilities. He challenged our team to do it’s best work and helped make sure that our marketing was “Best in Class”. On top of all those things he was also a faithful friend, a compassionate listener, and a thoughtful provider of advice. We’ve missed having him around the office as his health declined and certainly his passing touches us all.” One of Bob’s biggest passions outside of his career was his ministerial work. Bob worked as a Prayer
WITMER PUBLIC SAFETY GROUP
Minister after attending Elijah House, an international ministry that equips and empowers individual’s hearts to be healed and changed for fulfilled life. In Bob’s words, “that was the beginning of me understanding why I was made, what God had wanted me for”. He also worked closely with Providence Church in West Chester, PA, where he was made an Honorary Pastor in 2014. “My role is one of encouragement,” Bob said in his 2013 YouTube Video, “A Body Made Whole”. “He’s refined in me my ability to play that role. I’ve embraced that role.”
Although Bob’s Muscular Dystrophy confined him to a wheelchair in 2002, he always managed to find joy in his everyday life, and lived his life with the purpose to help others do the same. Services for Bob will be held after the Easter Holiday. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s name will be accepted via Providence Church, Canine Partners for Life, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. To watch Bob’s YouTube Video, please visit: http://bit.ly/ABodyMadeWhole - WITMER PUBLIC SAFETY GROUP
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Photo by Adam Alberti
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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
KEN SNYDER
Tanker lost in fire
Stewartsville, NJ. On March 1st at around 4:25 a.m., crews responded to fire in a four bay Greenwich Township public works garage located at 321 Greenwich St. The fire was placed under control at 5:50 a.m. Destroyed in the fire were Stewartsville’s 2007 Kenworth/Pierce 250/3000 tanker, a front end loader and two salt trucks. The fire is believed to be electrical in origin, but that cannot be confirmed at this time. Assisting Stewartsville in this one alarm fire were Phillipsburg, and Franklin and Harmony Townships.
JOHN M. MALECKY
When photographed, Unit 141 of Community Fire Company 4 in Middletown Township was still in the process of being equipped. However, the work done thus far on that day was worth being photographed as most of the future equipment was going to be portable. The unit is a 2011 Ford F-550 Super Duty XL with five seat cab and an Alumalite body. It has a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. The skid mounts a Hale HP-100 pump with a 300 gpm rating, a UPF 300 gallon water tank and two 10 gallon foam tanks. There are two ¾-inch reels, and a 1 ¾-inch attack line. Other features include four spotlights, a Mile Marker three-ton winch with front and rear receivers and two 2 ½-inch hard suction sleeves.
Out of Reach, the day Hartford Hospital burned ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
Out of Reach The Day Hartford Hospital Burned By F. Mark Granato Available from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble (bn.com) Price: $17.99 (hard copy) This is a soft cover book measuring six inches by nine inches and has 296 pages. It is also available as an e-book. There are 32 chapters plus an epilogue. Most of the chapters are a few pages with only a few others that are a little lengthy. It is a novel about the Hartford Hospital in which a major fire occurred in December of 1961. Leo LePages’ book on his career as a Hartford police officer touched briefly on this fire in a single chapter. This author is a writer and journalist, not associated with the fire service or any emergency service for that matter. His extensive research which included interviews with many who were there and recollections of family members of those who are no longer with us, brings us a riveting story that promises to keep you at the edge of your seat! Though some of the contents are
a work of fiction, the stories do parallel actual events particularly with strategy and tactics with heroics from both emergency personnel, hospital personnel and just plain visitors and others that happened to be in the hospital that day. The author’s determination was relentless in detailing the tragedy, which took many lives. He includes from his own imagination how some of the things may have happened. You will read of some heroic tactics that may not be believable, but I can tell you that they did take place and that they only prove once more how firefighters will go to the utmost extent to save lives. As you read, you may put yourself at the scene and imagine how difficult it was to survive through this operation. For one thing, it took place at a time when SCBAs were scarce and individual fire companies did not have sufficient gear for each member. Thus many had to “eat smoke,” if you will, while undergoing bonetiring ordeals to make rescues and bring the fire under control. The fire was overshadowed by an earlier working fire in an apartment house that same morning, which drew men and apparatus away and kept them away for a reasonable amount of time. Other side stories capture human interest that the reader will find interesting. This is definitely a read to be considered whether you are in the emergency service or simply an avid reader!
Right/rear view of Unit 141 of Community FC 4 of the Middletown Township Fire Department.
JOHN M. MALECKY
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Saying goodbye to dispatcher Ira Rubin Members of the fire service and fire buff world were in shock when they learned of the sudden death of Jersey City Fire Dispatcher, and Gong Club Life Member, Ira Rubin, “Dispatcher Two-Three.” On the morning of March 6th, his family and his fire service family gathered at Mount Moriah Cemetery in Fairview to say goodbye. This was initially going to be JUMP TO FILE a small Jewish fu- #030716114 neral service, where parking was limited; however, many showed up for a Brother. A fire service tribute to Ira Rubin, at the invitation of the Jersey City Fire Department and the Gong Club, was set for Saturday, March 19th at St. Joseph's RC Church, 511 Pavonia Avenue, Jersey City, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. It is here that his friends from across the country gathered to remember a person who was bigger than life itself. Ira had many fire service contacts due to his avid buff activities over the years, plus his activity with the International Fire Buff Associates (IFBA). They will be coming from places like from Boston, Buffalo and Burbank. A small gathering at the Fairview cemetery? Not likely. Too many friends wanted to show up to pay their respects. A sea of blue lined up at the grave site, including the FDJC Honor Guard. active and retired fire officers and firefighters along with fire buffs joined his relatives. But, before arriving at the cemetery, the tributes were on display. Members of the Cliffside Park and Fairview Fire Departments set up their aerial ladders and placed a huge American flag over Bergen Boulevard for the funeral procession to pass under before entering the cemetery. They were joined by members of the Edgewater Fire Department. Ira's family members were at the cemetery along with the sea of blue as the funeral procession came down from a funeral home in Fort Lee. The procession included Jersey City Battalion 2, Engine 19, Ladder 8 and the Gong Club canteen truck, known locally as the “Gong Wagon.” Members of Group “B,” were on duty for the funeral. This was the same group of guys who had lunch with Ira at the firehouse on his last day. After Ira completed his night tour, went home, and called fire dispatch for help, these men responded to his aid. Along with the Jersey City members, there were uniforms from places like Englewood, Kearny, Morristown, North Hudson, F.D.N.Y., and Fire Engineering magazine. Conducting the memorial service, Rabbi Nathan W. Langer said he didn't know Ira. He did a Google search, and there were “pages, and pages and pages” about him. He said he felt cheated
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Passaic spare truck (former Truck 2) a 1989 Simon Duplex/LTI 100’ tiller operates a ladder pipe at an eight alarm fire in a large OMD on October 21st.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
RON JEFFERS
Hasbrouck Heights Truck 1, a 1990 Seagrave 1500/200/110’ rearmount ladder at the scene of a working house fire on November 17th.
Ridgefield Park Engine 2 (former Engine 4), a 1983 Hendrickson/Grumman 1500 500 at the scene of a house fire on Feb. 16th.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
that he did not know Ira. As the service began, many mechanical sirens (Ira's favorite type of siren) could be heard in the distance. Fairview and Cliffside Park fire units were responding to a working fire on Tenth Street, Fairview. Ira's spirit may have been over his family and his family in blue, but he probably took a peek over at the red fire trucks, up the hill! On Saturday nights, since the 1980's, Gong Club member Bob “Bozo” Bozewski has made a home cooked meal for members and visi-
RON JEFFERS
tors who are “in on the meal.” A plate was placed upside down with fork and knife, at the end of the long kitchen table, for Ira on the eve of his funeral. During the evening of March 6th, the FDJC's 1900 hour radio test was conducted as usual. This test was a bit different, however. Many companies added to their acknowledgement, “Rest in Peace, Ira.” Ira Rubin has left a void in the fire service that will never be replaced. - RON JEFFERS
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Avenel Fire Department 1986 E-One Engine 5-2
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ANDREW RUDD
21 Fire takes in brush fire
On March 24, 2016 just after 3:00 p.m., the Good Will Fire Company (21 Fire, Belvidere) was requested for their UTV on a brush assignment into White Township. The fire was well involved with NJFFS already on location. Five members responded in Utility 21-73 with UTV 21-74. Three members went into the woods on the UTV with other mutual aid departments and assisted the Forest Fire Service in extinguishing the fire. Fire units on scene included those from Harmony, Good Will, Mtn. Lake, Oxford, and NJFFS. EMS coverage for the incident was provided by Oxford and Phillipsburg squads. The fire was placed under control shortly before 5:00 p.m.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
Easy does it! East Orange Firefighter Terence Thornton guides Engine 1's new Ferrara pumper back into quarters through a narrow bay door. In the old days, the door wasn't considered narrow. Today: narrow doors-bigger trucks!
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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DEPARTMENT PROFILES
If you have photos you would like to see in our Department Profiles feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
EVAN WEBSTER
The Budd Lake Fire Department operates this 1998 Mack MR/2014 KME 1250/750/40 as Engine 53.
EVAN WEBSTER
The Budd Lake Fire Department operates this 2009 Seagrave 1500/870/40 as Engine 59.
Hundreds gather for dispatcher two-three’s memorial Jersey City, N.J. The shoulder patches read Portland, Burbank, Buffalo, Boston, Chelsea, Cambridge, East Hartford, FDNY, Toronto, and may more. Jersey City Fire Dispatcher Ira Rubin's family and his fire service family gathered at St. Joseph's Church on Pavonia Avenue for Dispatcher Two-Three's memorial service. Ira, 62, passed away on March 3rd, shocking the fire service world. He was known around the country and internationally by firefighters and fire buffs. A life member of the Gong Club, Honorary FDJC Battalion Chief and department historian, pipes and drums organizer and participant, a fire novelty salesman, and much more. FDJC Chaplain, Reverend James Pagnotta, and long time friend if Ira's, explained why Ira, and only Ira Rubin, could have a memorial in a Catholic church, and explained that he “touched many lives.” That was just part of Ira's uniqueness. Chief of Department Darren Rivers said Ira “laid the groundwork” for his remarks at his promotional ceremony. He found a “level of respect and connection with Ira.” The chief explained that Ira's knowledge of the FDJC was “second to none.” With that respect for his knowledge of the city and the fire department, he asked Ira to revamp the fire department's running assignments in 2013. Battalion Chief Steve McGill said everything “was well” when you heard Ira's voice on the radio. A confidence in his work. He said Ira's tip, by announcing “Striking Box...” was a tip that the alarm sounded like a “job” and get ready to work. Paul Boudreau, President of the Boston Sparks Association,
RON JEFFERS
FDJC Chaplain, Reverend James V. Pagnotta, explains why only Ira Rubin could have a memorial in a church.
JUMP TO FILE #032116111 said Ira would visit Boston to “hold court” at their club's quarters, and local buffs would stop by to see Ira and “kiss the ring.” Gong Club treasurer, Paul Schaetzle, who went to high school with Ira, provided some Ira Rubin stories. Through his insurance business, Schaetzle travels throughout the country and crosses our borders from time to time. At one roundtable meeting, everyone announced who they were and where they were from. When Schaetzle said he was from Jersey City, a Mexican public safety official said, “Do you know Ira Rubin?” There has been an inside joke at the Gong Club since 1972, “Who is Ira Rubin?” Schaetzle explained that that comment evolved into, “Do you know Ira Rubin?”
Always the uniform buff, and wanting “his men” to look sharp, Ira was the only fire buff, who could tell a fire officer that he was wearing an insignia on his uniform the wrong way-how to correct itand they did! Chief Rivers presented Paul Schaetzle with a framed copy of General Order 16-08, dated March 19, 2016, that retired dispatcher number 23. Honor guards from Jersey City, Bayonne and Newark participated as well as members of Ira's favorite pipes and drums, which played Amazing Grace for Ira. All who spoke were emotional. Battalion Chief John Alston continued to tell Ira Rubin stories into the evening at the Gong Club including an incident when Ira was nice and soothing to the chief's child. In church, Chief Alston said, “I miss my friend, so much.” - RON JEFFERS
EVAN WEBSTER
The Budd Lake Fire Department operates this 2006 Seagrave 1500/1000 as Squad 56.
PROVIDED
IC300 training class held
EVAN WEBSTER
The Budd Lake Fire Department operates this 2013 Seagrave 2000/500/100’ Ladder as Ladder 58.
Hamburg, NJ. IC 300 class training class was hosted by Hamburg OEM along with Chief McMurry of the Hamburg Fire Department. Instructors were from Sussex County Sheriff's Office Division of OEM and the New Jersey State Forest Fire Division A Section Wardens.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
CIRONE PHOTO
This 2011 Pierce 1,500 GPM with CAFS capability is the only one in the United States and is stationed in Newark, it also has a 350 Gal Water tank, “note Rail wheels under the body”
WESTVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Marine rescue assignment
E.3 in Morristown is a 1994 Spartan/Darley 1750/500.
KEN SNYDER
On the afternoon of March 10th, District 8 was dispatched for a marine rescue assignment on the Delaware River in the area of Beach Hill. Upon arrival, resources were advised that two subjects and a dog were in the water off of Red Bank Battlefield. Marine 8-1 was launched and located two subjects separated by approximately 100 yards, one floating with the overturned canoe and the other holding onto a flotation device. Marine 8-1 was able to quickly secure both persons into the marine unit and safely bring them to Beach Hill for evaluation and treatment by EMS. Fire Boat 7 and Marine 6-2 were staged at River Gate Park. The dog was able to make it’s way to shore on it’s own. A quick response was able to prevent a possible tragic ending.
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May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
ROMAN ISARYK JR
Truck in the water
Just after 12 p.m. on April 1, New Gretna Volunteer Fire Co was toned out for a vehicle in the water at Amasa Landing Rd. 4200 arrived and requested West Tuckerton and Mystic Island Fire Co for their dive teams. Great Bay EMS was also requested to the scene. Crews launched a small boat into the water and two divers went in to secure a tow line to the vehicle. They were then able to bring the vehicle to shore. Once on shore, all units cleared the scene. NJSP is investigating the incident.
ANTIQUE APPARATUS
If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.comor email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
WTES
Car into woods on Turnpike On the afternoon of March 27th, Westampton Township Emergency Services Squad 2723 and Chief 2700 responded to the New Jersey Turnpike Northbound in the area of mile marker 47 for an MVC with a car into the woods. river was extricated and transported by ambulance to the trauma center. 2nd patient transported to hospital as well. Northbound delay between exit 5 and the truck lane split. Endeavor Emergency Squad, Virtua MICU paramedics and Independent Fire Company No. 1 also responded.
TODD HOLLRITT
Seaside Heights Station 44 protects the well known shore town and still maintains this classic 1954 Ward LaFrance Model 83T 750gpm that once served the fire company as Engine 1. Shown here in the 2016 Ocean County Saint Patrick's Day parade.
WESTVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Single vehicle crash for Westville
TODD HOLLRITT
Island Heights Engine 5321, a 1928 Ahrens-Fox, in the Ocean County Saint Patrick's Day parade on Saturday, March 12, 2016.
On the morning of March 15th, Westville Fire Department's Rescue Company 738 operated at a single vehicle crash with entrapment on Grove Road in National Park. The Rescue Company performed a side wall removal to allow access to the trapped patient. BLS and ALS transported the occupant to a local hospital for evaluation.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
MEET ROVER
Meet His App “ROVER MOBILE”
Phone: (203) 445 6536 • www.spotteddogtech.com Built by firefighters, for firefighters
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ACTION SHOTS FROM AROUND THE STATE
May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
News 12 New Jersey reporter Chris Keating, right, interviews Lyndhurst Fire Chief Paul Haggerty after the Good Friday, Stuyvesant Avenue, 3rd alarm was brought under control.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Linden Chief of Department Joe Dooley in on mutual aid at a 3rd alarm in Union on 3-9-16.
Chief Jake Little at the scene of a second alarm in Sussex NJ.
DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
RON JEFFERS
Jersey City Gong Club Life Member Bob "Bozo" Bozewski, right, with member Jim Fay, received a surprise birthday cake at the club's annual St. Patrick's Day dinner, prepared by Bozewski. The club chef has been cooking dinners for members, and visiting firemen from all over the country, on Saturday nights since the 1980's.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Union Battalion Chief Scanio operates on the “C” side of the fire building at a 3rd alarm in Union on 3-9-16.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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Some Fire and EMS units from Bergen County This month we did a random selection of some apparatus and EMS units from Bergen County communities. Others will eventually be shown as the months go by. Since first aid and rescue squads receive the newspaper, we included a number of ambulances in the photos. Notice that the Tenafly ambulance is painted in orange and black. After finding out that the squad has adapted this color for all future ambulances, we asked them why this color was chosen. We were told that orange and black are the colors of Tenafly and that this ambulance was a demo that was repainted except for the module’s roof which remained white. Another truck, the special operations unit in Bogota was originally owned by J. Fletcher Creamer, a contracting company that does it’s share of road work in the state. The truck, which had been a sort of coffee color, was acquired first by the Hackensack Fire Department and later became part of the Bogota Fire Department (which is a neighbor of Hackensack) after Hackensack received a UASI collapse unit supplied by the state to serve the county. The Teaneck Sutphen platform had its original boom retrofitted onto a new apparatus and the original pump was rebuilt. Finally, the Elmwood Park ambulance remount photo is one of two rebuilds the other of which had not yet been lettered at the time of this printing. In dealer news, FF1 Professional Safety Services reports that they have a Ferrara HD-77 quint in production destined for Sea Isle City (Cape May County.) Specs include a Cinder chassis, extruded aluminum body, Hale Qmax 1250-2000 gpm pump, 500 gallon water tank, heavy duty three-section rear mounted 77 foot aerial ladder. Absolute Fire Protection refurbished Morganville’s (Monmouth County) EONE 95 foot platform. It went through a complete rebuild, all sections of ladder were refinished and swirled with new electronics and hydraulics. Included were new Federal Signal warning lights, Whelen Pioneer scene lights, PAC Trac mounting, complete cab refinishing, added an extra SCBA seat, Zico Quic Lock brackets, Zolatone compartment paint, Amdor ladder strip lights, complete chassis overhaul and a cab and body repaint with new graphics. They received an order from the City of Newark (Essex County) for a foam pumper. Specs include an E-ONE Typhoon X cab, Hale Qmax 2000 gpm pump, Williams Hot Shot II foam system, foam plumbed to all discharges, dual TFT deck guns, low hose bed, 780 gallon water and 250 gallon Class “B” foam tanks and a Cummins ISL 450 hp diesel engine. Funding was through a port security grant. New Jersey Emergency Vehicles reports that they delivered to Brick Police EMS (Ocean County) a P.L. Custom Classic 156, Type III ambulance on a Ford F-450 extended cab chassis. First Priority Emergency Vehicles’ apparatus division delivered two KME pumpers. The first went to the Ancora Psychiatric Hospital in Ancora (Camden County.) Specs include a Navistar 4400 four door chassis with five seats( four SCBA), International MaxxForce 9, 330 hp diesel engine with exhaust brake, AlPlease 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
Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance Corps, A- 192, 2015 Chevrolet 3500HD/Frazier.
John M. Malecky
Bogota L-1, 1993/2013 E-ONE Hurricane 110 foot aerial with 4 kw generator. Refurbished by E-ONE and sold by Absolute Fire Protection.
John M. Malecky
Teaneck RT-2, 1988/2014 Sutphen 1500/300/95 foot and 10 kw generator. The boom was retrofitted by Sutphen onto a new cab, chassis and body and the pump was rebuilt.
John M. Malecky
Bogota Special Operations, 1989 International 4800/Stahl. It was originally a construction vehicle with J. Fletcher Creamer.
John M. Malecky
Tenafly Ambulance A-42 sports new colors which represents the town. It is a 2013 Horton 623 demo with an International TerraStar chassis. John M. Malecky
One of two remounts for the Elmwood Park Volunteer EMS. It is a 2016 Ford E-450 with older P.L. Custom Medallion module. It was sold by NJ Emergency Vehicles. PROVIDED
JOHN M. MALECKY
The Upper Saddle River VAC's A-925 is this 2016 Freightliner M2/Wheeled Coach medium duty ambulance. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.
Hackensack L-1, 2015 Pierce Arrow XT with 105 foot aerial and 10 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.
John M. Malecky
lison 3000 EVS transmission, Waterous CXV, 1500 gpm single-stage pump, three-inch LDH discharge with five-inch Storz adaptor, three-inch deck gun discharge, 2 ½-inch rear discharge, two 1 ½-inch crosslays, 1000 gallon water tank, KME 152 inch Legacy aluminum body with 29 inch deep compartments,
unpainted Amdor roll-up doors, full height/split depth compartments on both sides, through the tank ladder storage two wheel well compartments for six spare SCBA cylinders or extinguishers, two six-inch hard suctions (one each side of body)and four Weldon 12-volt scene lights on the body.
The second went to Byram Township in Sussex County. Specs include a Predator Panther chassis with 136 inch MFD cab and 195 inch wheel base, six seats (five SCBA), Cummins ISL 9, 450 hp diesel engine with Jake Brake, Allison 3000 EVS transmission, Hale Qmax 1500 gpm single-stage pump, side mount panel, six-inch front intake with 180 degree swivel, four-inch discharge, 2 ½-inch hose bed discharge, three-inch deck gun discharge, three crosslays (two 1 ½, one 2 ½-inch) 1000 gallon poly water tank, KME 162 inch Challenger WB aluminum body, Amdor painted roll-up doors, driver’s
side full height/full depth compartments, officer side full height/split depth compartments, ladders stored next to water tank on right side access through rear door, hard suctions stored behind the side body roll-up doors accessed from the rear, four wheel well compartments for eight spare SCBA cylinders and a slide-out absorbent bin, 94 inch wide hose bed with two adjustable dividers and a Honda 5-kw gasoline generator. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 62
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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May, 2016
OUT OF THE AREA
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CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Quick stop at evening blaze in Dumont Dumont firefighters made quick work of a fire at 36 Merritt Ave. The fire, which was reported around 6:30 p.m., was venting from two windows on the second floor as units arrived on JUMP TO FILE scene. #040216111 Dumont Engine 3 arrived first on scene and stretched an attack line though the side door up to the second floor. Firefighters had the heavy fire knocked in the one room as truck company members vented the roof. It took firefighters under 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid was provided from Tenafly and Cresskill. No injuries were reported and the fire remains under investigation.
MIKE MCCAGG
Hong Kong Fire Department, engine in midtown station.
Stock Spartan Metro-Star Legend Pumper
- CHRIS TOMPKINS
Daily news updates can
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
FACES FROM AROUND THE STATE
To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
North Hudson Deputy Chief Dave Curtis, 4th from left, on his last tour at the 29th Street firehouse, Union City, March 31st, after 32-years of service. D.C. Curtis started his career with the former Weehawken Fire Department.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Avenel Captain Darren Holland operating at a house fire on South Fulton St. in Woodbridge.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Englewood Chief of Department Gerald Marion commands the fire scene at a third alarm church fire on March 22nd.
RON JEFFERS
Fords has placed into service the company's first aerial device with this 2016 Ferrara 2000-gpm/500gwt/77-foot quint. L-R: Captain Don Pinter, and Firefighters Tom Nebus, James Lapointe and Benny Dellapietro.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Perth Amboy Firefighter Ken Febles carries a charred piece of wall from the fire apartment.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Apparatus and personal vehicle response safety STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
From dispatch to return to station at the conclusion of the incident, one must maintain a constant vigilance relative to a safe response, be it on apparatus or ones personal vehicle. Each year, firefighters/EMS personnel are killed in motor vehicle crashes with slightly under half of these deaths occurring while responding. I mention only deaths, but how many more were injured? How many civilian injuries and deaths? What was the loss in apparatus and operating expenses? How was the local responding departments insurance impacted? Response can be very deadly and very expensive. Responding to the scene of an emergency, whether driving your personal vehicle or driving an emergency vehicle, requires careful thought and control in order to complete a safe response. In either response mode, you are of no value if you don’t arrive safely. You may further complicate the initial response if you are involved in your own emergency and will now require assistance! The response begins with your size-up, the day of the week, time of day, weather conditions, and vehicle conditions. Is an alternate response route suggested due to prevailing conditions? Do you know where you are going? If not, find out before starting out as you will have other responsibilities and concerns, and the added anxiety that comes with not being sure of your destination will detract you from those responsibilities. When responding in your personal vehicle remember you are not an Emergency Vehicle, rather just another vehicle sharing the road with no special privileges. You must comply with all traffic regulations whether responding to the fire station or directly to the scene of the emergency. The blue light identifies you as a volunteer member of the Fire/EMS department responding to an emergency call. If the driver in front of you is kind enough to yield the right of way, be thankful, the next one may not. Be patient, no matter how important you think you are. Responding with your personal vehicle or driving apparatus, do not pass through red traffic lights, stop signs, do not cross traffic lines or pass unsuspecting motorists, and do not exceed the speed limit. Yield at all yield signs and yield whenever the other driver fails to do so. Should there be a crash, you will be judged by what action you took to avoid the crash, even if you had the right of way. I am oft reminded of an old verse “Here lies the body of Robert Gray, He died maintaining his right of way, He is dead, just as dead, As if he had been wrong!” Reckless driving of your personal vehicle or an emergency vehicle can lead to accidents, and accidents can lead to injury and death. No matter the consequences of injury and/or death, ultimately there will be lawsuits and trials and it is always more difficult than you think to exonerate yourself in a court of law.
Responding while driving an emergency vehicle includes all of the above, and requires additional considerations, skill, and proper mental attitude. Emergency apparatus drivers should be selected upon satisfactory completion of an emergency vehicle operators training program. Just because someone drives a truck for a living does not qualify him or her for a position as an emergency vehicle driver. Mental attitude is as equally important as mastering the driving skills. Some drivers get behind the wheel of an emergency vehicle and think they “own the road,” driving to out race the speed of the siren. They are asking for trouble, an accident waiting to happen, a seat behind the steering wheel is not for them. Emergency vehicle response requires maintaining the apparatus in good mechanical condition, all equipment secured and stored properly, and warning lights and audible sounding devices operating properly. The response begins with dispatch, ensuring all personnel are onboard, in full protective gear, and all secured with seat belts, including you. A slow, cautious exit from the station, which may require personnel to stop vehicular traffic in the street and if so, stopping for them to board and fasten seat belts. Now as you begin your response with your valuable cargo, being alert and driving with caution will be your major concerns. Red warning lights must be on and you must be sounding an audible warning device to be in an Emergency Vehicle mode. Should the response not warrant “lights and siren” then, you are not considered an emergency vehicle and are required to comply with all traffic laws and regulations. When responding as an Emergency Vehicle with “lights and siren,” you may cautiously violate some traffic regulations. You may cross traffic lines and lanes, pass through red traffic signals, and exceed the posted speed limit. My recommendation is DON’T. Never exceed the speed limit while responding; should you be involved in a crash, it will be used against you. Excessive speed does not help to reduce response time; it only increases the risk for crashes, resulting in injury and death. Always stop for red traffic lights and stop signs, looking in all directions before continuing ahead. Look twice! Anticipate vehicles passing vehicles that have stopped to yield you the right of way. Be alert for children playing and their increased excitement as you pass and the potential for them to do the unexpected. Scan all sides of the street for vehicles that may be entering the roadway from residential driveways, shopping malls, etc. Almost everyone is in a hurry today with the radio blasting, preoccupied while they eat, drink, do their hair, read, talk on a cell phone or a myriad of other things. The one thing they may not be doing is paying attention to their driving, adding to your responsibilities for a safe response. Upon your safe arrival at the scene of the emergency (turn your siren and unnecessary lights off!), locate your emergency vehicle according to need, department SOP’s, or as directed by an officer. If at all possible, try not to block the road unless
that is the intent. Additional apparatus/ambulances may be required and the closer to the scene they can locate, the more efficient. All apparatus should be chocked once at its final destination. Should you have responded to the scene in your personal vehicle; park it out of the way, preferably a half-block or more away. Returning to quarters is done in full compliance with the traffic laws. No lights, no sirens, and no needless haste, with all passengers riding with their seat belts fastened. When approaching quarters you may wish to turn your warning lights on, come to a complete stop and permit personnel to disembark and control street traffic to facilitate your backing into quarters. Once the apparatus/ambulance is safely in quarters, it is time to prepare for another safe dispatch. One final subject is BACKING UP. Extreme caution and a guide are required when backing up. Never back up if it can be avoided, many fender bender type crashes occur when backing up, some resulting in injuries and deaths. Remember, whether driving for pleasure or driving an emergency vehicle, driving is a full time chore, requiring your full attention.
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May, 2016
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
JOHN MALECKY
The artwork on the rear doors of Tenafly’s new ambulance is an American Eagle. The theory behind it is that the eagle spreads its wings to accept a patient when the doors open up.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Structure Fires 2014, Volume 1 VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
Structure Fires, 2014, Volume 1 Alan Simmons Productions
Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite 4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800522-8528 E-mail:support@firep o l i c e - e m s . c - o m www.fire-police-ems.com Price $19.95 (DVD)
This DVD is 55 minutes in length and covers three fire incidents. The first is the Colby fire, which took place in January of that year and started as a result of an illegal campfire, which spread in the morning hours during Santa Ana winds. It took six houses within the first hour and spread a great distance. This was in the area of Glendora in the Angeles National Forest.
Need I say more? It made for some spectacular fire and firefighting by the L.A. City and County Fire Departments assisted by other agencies. A show called air show took place with Canadair Super Scooper’s (air tankers), which jointed the battle. This is followed by two third alarm fires fought by Glendale and Burbank Fire Departments. Both were pretty much “surround and drown” events. The first was in a large bakery/café, which was two stories in height and the fire was throughout thebuilding. Ladder pipes and street streams operated and truck crews opened up roofs to try and check the spread. Ladder pipes and street streams also operated at a strip mall in which most of the occupancies had been compromised. Fire was through the roof in both incidents. The collection of apparatus is impressive. As I have said in the past, there is plenty of fire for everyone. It is a DVD of interest for those who want to see fire operations.
YOU WON’T RUN OUT OF THINGS TO DO AT .... FIRE EXPO 2010
LANCASTER COUNTY FIREMEN’S ASSOCIATION’S 44TH ANNUAL
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MARTY PELTA
Firefighter suffers minor injury at kitchen fire On March 5, 2016, the Fair Lawn Fire Department under the command of Chief of Department, Tim Yuskaitis, responded to a kitchen fire on Saddle River Road. The fire was quickly knocked down, with damage to the kitchen counter and cabinet area, but no further extension through the house. One firefighter suffered a minor hand injury while removing a burning item from the kitchen. He was treated at the scene by Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corps and transported to a local hospital.
ADMISSION: Adults $9.00 Children 9 and under FREE
HOSTED BY LANCASTER COUNTY FIREMEN’S ASSOCIATION There were 366 Exhibitors Displaying Products in 488 Booth Spaces and exhibiting 217 Emergency Vehicles Last Year To Provide For Your Needs and Services
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May, 2016
PAGE 61
Dog perishes in Woodbridge blaze
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
Montvale once operated four Crown pumpers on the East Coast. The Crown Coach Corp. built bus bodies, mostly for school transportation. The company evolved into fire apparatus with a cab-forward designed Firecoach model, with the first rigs delivered in 1953. They were popular on the West Coast, including Los Angeles city and county. You will notice them on many movie and TV shows. Montvale "M-4" is a 1500-gpm/500-gwt model built in 1983. It has two booster reels. The one on the officer's side is equipped with forestry hose. This unit is used primarily for brush fires. Firecoach production ended in 1984.
Woodbridge, NJ. A family was able to escape unharmed, but lost a dog on March 19 after a fire broke out in their single-family home. Woodbridge firefighters were dispatched around 5:45 p.m. to 211 South Fulton St. for the re- JUMP TO FILE# ported kitchen fire. 032016118 Arriving companies found heavy smoke throughout with heavy fire showing from the C-Side of the building. Engine 3 established a water supply directly across the street from the address and placed hand lines into operation. The first hand line was advanced through the front door where the interior crew encountered zero visibility with high heat to the floor. The suppression team was quickly forced to retreat due to deteriorating conditions. Just as the interior crew backed out, heavy fire started to vent from the first floor windows on the BSide of the building. The hand line was then relocated to the B-Side to darken the flames from the exterior to improve conditions, allowing the suppression team to make entry through the front door once again. A second hand line was advanced by a crew from Avenel through the front door to the second floor to check for extension, but were forced to retreat due to weaken stairs and spongy floor. The bulk of the fire was darkened within 30 minutes and held to the first floor, but interior crews chased hidden fire in the walls of the two-story balloon-framed home. Extensive overhaul was needed to
extinguish remaining hot spots in the void spaces. The fire was declared under control within an hour. Crews were eventually able to gain access to the second floor via a ground ladder and found the family dog, but unfortunately it succumb to the smoke. The home sustained significant damage throughout and was deemed uninhabitable by the Woodbridge Township building department. The
family is seeking temporary shelter. Mutual aid fire departments from Avenel, Hopelawn, Keasbey and Perth Amboy were summoned to the scene for assistance, while additional Woodbridge Township fire departments covered the town. The cause and origin of the fire is being investigated by the Woodbridge Fire Prevention Bureau.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
- KEITH ADDIE
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Erskine Lakes Fire Company Engine 243 in Ringwood, a 1988 Pierce 1500, 500 responded in to a multiple alarm fire in Tuxedo park, N.Y. on April 19, 2015.
GABRIELLE BALON
“Feets of Strength” contest
EVAN WEBSTER
The West Orange Fire Department operates this 1985 Peter Pirsch 1500/500 pumper as spare Engine 6.
Roosevelt Volunteer Fire Department member, John Lenart was chosen as the Grand Prize Winners of the Globe Turnout Gear "Feets of Strength" contest in the Family Category. The winning photo, taken by Gabrielle Balon, shows John helping preschooler, Hailey Suk, ring the antique bell on the department's 1970 Mack C4-600 during a Fire Prevention Assembly at the Roosevelt Public School.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
APPARATUS OF THE MONTH A look at what’s new with apparatus around the state with John Malecky
- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 54
Also in Sussex County, they received an order from the Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Company, Stillwater Township for an elliptical tanker. Specs include a Mack Granite twodoor chassis with Mack MP-8 455 hp diesel engine and Mack engine brake, Allison 4500 EVS transmission, Hale DSD 1250 gpm single-stage pump, side mount panel, five-inch through the bumper front suction, two three-inch tank-to-pump valves with front and rear sump for operations on grades, four-inch discharge, two 1 ¾-inch crosslays, deadlay hose storage above pump for three-inch hose, 3000 gallon poly water tank wrapped with mirror finish stainless steel wrap, two threeinch rear direct tank fills, 10 inch square Newton dumps on rear and both sides, KME LX tandem axle body of 3CR12 stainless steel, painted hinged aluminum doors, driver’s side low side compartments with ground ladders mounted above, officer’s side low side compartments with a hinged port-atank rack mounted above, wheel well compartments for two SCBA’s and two spare SCBA cylinders, two 15 foot lightweight six-inch hard suction hoses stored in compartments and six Whe-
len 12-volt LED scene mounted on the tank. Fire & Safety Services reports an order from Union County for a Pierce Saber 75 foot aluminum rearmount. It will be going to the Union County Fire Academy in Linden. Pierce deliveries include Barrington in Camden County for a remount of an Aerialscope onto an Arrow XT chassis, to Andover Township in Sussex County a Saber PUC pumper, to South Wall in Wall Township (Monmouth County) an Arrow XT pumper and three Enforcer pumpers, one each to Fair Haven (Monmouth County), Merchantville (Camden County) and Alpine (Bergen County.) Campbell Supply Co., LLC delivered the last two Freightliner/Spartan ER pumpers to Edison and a Spartan ER Metro Star pumper to the Possumtown Fire Company in Piscataway Township. It has a 2000 gpm pump, 750 gallon water tank, 50 gallon foam tank, Akron 95 gpm foam eductor, 600 watt Will Burt Night Scan, Harrison 10 kw hydraulic generator, speedy dry hopper and a pull out rear step. All of these deliveries are in Middlesex County.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser
Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day? There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows. Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well. Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show. Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen. "The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun." ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can
VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community
raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available. "Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick. "We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!” The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks. "We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-
beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department. "A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since." "I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner. "We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good." Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right. Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.” For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.
Colonia Engine 12-2 at an auto repair shop fire on Route 27.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Avenel Truck 5-2-5 at an auto repair shop fire on Route 27.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
email: JoeyNovick@gmail.com Perth Amboy Engine 2 at an apartment fire on Chamberlain Ave.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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May, 2016
Let’s Buy an Ambulance EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
DAMIEN DANIS
Possible lightning strike in Fair Lawn A home in Fair Lawn sustained significant fire damage on the evening of April 3rd in a blaze that some believe was caused by a lightning strike to the home next door. The top floor of the home at 3905 Vanore Drive sustained heavy fire damage. The fire reported after 2 a.m. brought all Fair Lawn fire
JUMP TO FILE #040316137 companies along with a FAST team from Saddle Brook to the scene. Cover companies came from Glen Rock and Rochelle Park. Not too long after this blaze was being
brought under control, a fire was reported at the former Marcal Paper Company building in Elmwood Park. Fire units from Garfield, Saddle Brook and Lodi assisted Elmwood Park at that fire. - DAMIEN DANIS
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
Cresskill still operates this 1985 ALF 1500-750
CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
It’s a sad fact but all once-shiny and brand-new ambulances eventually need to be replaced; both highvolume and rural agencies put miles of use on an existing rig, weather conditions and exposure add more than a few blemishes to the body, and continually changing protocols keep adding new equipment which often requires more storage space in the ambulance. So, it’s settled, eventually you are going to have to shop around for a new ambulance. Where do you start? As the former VP and Rig Committee Chairperson at a local volunteer corps, I’ll share the methods we used. We began with a smaller, controlled committee which included riding members and budget administrators and we held an informal general membership meeting to gather recommendations from our riding members. Once armed with a list of requested priorities and knowledge of our budgetary limits, committee members were tasked with finding dealers who serviced our area and we let them know our parameters. The dealers got back to us and let us know HOW they could help us in our quest. A few dealers responded with attempts to change our priorities and those were pretty much ruled out immediately. We also eliminated dealers who had known issues about reliability with timing (consistent delays in manufacture) and difficulty in maintenance (if there was local dependable service). The committee also looked into the overall reputation based on our own and other corps’ experiences. Once we had a manageable list of dealers (approximately three) we made individual appointments for each to bring a rig to our location to inspect, make a presentation, and answer questions. Committee members were required to attend these presentations, we also invited interested members as well; after each presentation we met (without the dealer rep) to briefly discuss our impressions.
Armed with our checklist and notes, we asked the dealer/manufacturer any remaining (or new) questions, compared what was available to our refined list of priorities, and chose (on paper) which dealer was the most accommodating for our needs. Our next and final step was to present our recommendation to our Board of Directors; after any discussion and approval was granted, we entered into a contract with the dealer of choice. My corps’ top three priorities for a new rig were (1) affordability (2) safety and construction of the unit (3) overall size (to fit our bay and other local access routes). I asked two other agencies what their most recent top three priorities were: Corps A (1) Gas vs. diesel (2) serviceability and location (3) ability and ease for remount
Corps B (1) Price (2) size for equipment (they carry hazmat gear in addition to the norm) (3) reputation of company and Maintenance/ reliability. Other things to consider may be how the vehicle will be used (consider terrain and weather/road conditions), fuel efficiency and economy of use, structural integrity, inside-box work area (should be big enough to treat a patient and not so big that the members inside cannot be secured during the ride), how available are replacement parts, and what is the anticipated life of the ambulance. While my experience in a volunteer corps may have relied more on riding members’ opinions than a commercial provider might include, it is important to have people involved in the decision who are familiar with the actual working needs and not just theoretical ones. The cost of the vehicle may be limiting and even though it is important to keep it within the budget, it should never sacrifice the safety of the emergency team or patient. Finally, even most used ambulances have value, don’t forget to ask the vendor how much you can get for a trade-in during your negotiations.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to heather@1strespondernews.com
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
HEEROES HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS each month in all of ourr editions.
JUSTIN DEREVYANIK
Car fire in Hackensack Members of the 1st Platoon operated at an SUV fire at 336 Washington Ave. The fire was quickly knocked down by Engine Company 1. Engine 1 and Rescue 1 remained on scene for overhaul. No injuries were reported.
This tattoo is in honor of Paul Mauro, Sr., my father. He was a volunteer firefighter in Hillsborough Township, NJ and is the reason why I became a volunteer firefighter. I've been a firefighter with Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. #2 for over 20 years.The work was done by Jey Collins at Daruma Tattoo in Toms River, NJ. Tom Mauro Firefighter EMT Toms River Fire Co. 2
Would you like your emerge ency services related tattoo featured here?? Contact us at News@1stResponderNe ews.com
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TODD HOLLRITT
Ocean County parade brings thousands to the Jersey Shore Seaside Heights, NJ. The popular shore town of Seaside Heights hosted the annual Ocean County Saint Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 12th. With great weather and feeling like an early Spring day, it drew thousands of spectators to the borough. Here is a photo of Station 44, Seaside Heights Volunteer Fire Department leading the parade through town.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
PROVIDED
Early morning blaze destroys diner
A multi-alarm fire that broke out shortly after 4 a.m. on Tuesday, March 8 destroyed the Jerzeez Dinner on Route 94 in Vernon. First arriving fire companies were met with a heavy body of fire throughout the new diner and additional alarms were immediately called. Units from the McAfee, Vernon, Pochuck, Highland Lakes, Sussex Fire Fire Departments as well as the Vernon Township First Aid Squad along with surrounding area units were on the scene. The Vernon Township Police Department and Sussex County Fire Marshall’s Office were also on the scene. Traffic was completely blocked in both directions on Route 94 during the early morning hours.
ADAM ALBERTI
Woodbridge Township Fire District 1 recently received a 1998 Pierce Lance 2000/750 pumper that originally served Woodbridge Fire District 8 (Hopelawn) as Engine 8-2. It was designated as Engine 1-3 by District 1.
The “heart” of the matter...Is physical fitness in the forefront of your department? FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson
Each year, we review those all too familiar statistics reaffirming that the number one cause of premature death in the fire service is heart disease. It’s always alarming – yet never a surprise. Although more and more departments are implementing fitness and wellness programs, the reports continue to come in. I am thrilled with the growth of physical training that continues within the fire service. That being said, I can’t help but ask – “Are we doing enough?” I am continually met with responses like “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make ‘em drink”. I know all the limitations legally and otherwise, that sometimes prohibit just how much we are able to require. So being my stubborn self, I just have to ask, “if we can’t make ‘em drink, maybe it’s the “leading to water” part that needs a bigger push. We need to ask ourselves, are we doing enough leading? Yes, the opportunities to get and stay fit (and well) within the fire service are more available than ever. That’s great news. Now look within your department and see what percentage of your membership is taking advantage of what’s provided.
Additionally, which sector of your department is participating in your fitness program? Are the services being utilized by those members who need it most? Conversely, is it predominantly being utilized by the healthiest and most fit individuals who would be physically active regardless of whether a department program was present? I’ve written numerous times about “no exerciser left behind”. Is your department doing all it can to reach out to those who have the greatest need? Unfortunately, it’s quite possible we have gotten caught up in the legal aspect and approached fitness as “legally we have to provide it…it’s up to each individual whether or not they choose to take advantage of it.” Hey, I get it. I truly do. Again, I am not suggesting we “mandate or make it happen”. I am, however; suggesting that we do more to present the opportunities making it as accessible and doable to all individuals at all times. Fitness is often an entity of opportunity. I have found that striking while the iron is hot is a key factor in participation and continued compliance. Often the department work I do is performed on an annual basis. Medical clearance is obtained annually, along with fitness assessment and exercise prescription. That is a great thing. It was a long time coming and I am grateful for the progress that led to its estab-
lishment. This process has reached many and the programs continue to grow. To bring this forward to reach more and more members (especially those in need) we have to do things to keep physical fitness (wellness) in the forefront all year long. We do provide fitness assessments and exercise prescriptions periodically to catch those who may have resisted or have fallen through the cracks at year’s onset. This is done at the member’s request. It certainly helps, but I believe we need to do more. Here are just a few ways that I continue to recommend in order to keep Fitness in the Forefront. UTILIZE YOUR NEWSLETTER - Add a fitness section to your newsletter. If you don’t already have a newsletter, put together some fitness facts and distribute it monthly. Remember to include information regarding how to get started in the department physical fitness program for those who are not yet participating. UTILIZE YOUR WEBSITE devote a section on your website to fitness. If possible make it interactive so that personnel have a place to go and exchange information. Again, post dates and times that fitness assessments, orientations and exercise prescriptions will be available. UTILIZE YOUR MEETINGS, CLASSES AND DRILLS - Occasionally, begin scheduled meetings with a group warm-up and stretch
or at the very least a short presentation on physical fitness and its importance in the fire service. It can be as simple as providing a single fact/statistic or tip. You already have a group assembled; make it an opportunity to get information out or a message across. Did you stir some interest? Announce how and when members can get additional training. UTILIZE YOUR BULLETIN BOARD – Post fitness tips, exercise suggestions or interesting statistics to keep fitness in the forefront of the minds of your members/personnel. You can use humor/cartoons or go the more serious route with firefighter death and injury reports. Once again I urge you to post dates and schedules of fitness activities so everyone is in the loop. PROVIDE WORKSHOPS – schedule a workshop provided by a fitness professional where members can gain fitness and wellness knowledge as well as practical experience. ORGANIZE WEEKLY GROUP WORKOUTS – schedule weekly workouts – even if it is just an outdoor walk with or without gear. PROVIDE NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING – proper nutrition is a key component to any fitness/wellness program. Schedule a session with a registered dietician to provide important usable information to help your members/personnel understand and adopt good dietary habits.
INCORPORATE SMOKING CESSATION – quitting smoking is one of the single most important steps an individual can take to avoid premature death due to cardiovascular disease. Since heart attacks are the leading cause of premature death in the fire service. Why not offer a smoking cessation program? Keeping fitness in the forefront will help to get more and more of your members in action. The desire to get fit can strike at anytime, but if members are forced to wait till the beginning of the year to get involved, they can easily lose interest before they even get started. When physical fitness is highlighted in your newsletter and on your bulletin board, it is more present among your membership. Giving physical fitness a home on your website or regular mention at your monthly meetings will keep it ever present. So, “yes we can lead a horse to water, but we can’t make ‘em drink,” but we sure can do a better job at leading and leading and leading! If it means we lose less of our firefighters, our family and our friends it is surely worth the effort. Okay, so now let’s all get going, let’s go workout, and why not bring somebody with us? Good Luck and Stay Safe! Remember to have your physician’s approval before beginning any exercise program.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Vehicle News
The Bayonne Fire Canteen acquired this 2001 Ford van Long Branch Engine 25-74 has been assigned a 2016 South Old Bridge Fire District 3 accepted delivery of a from McCabe Ambulance and transformed it into a com- Pierce Enforcer 2000-gpm/500-gwt pumper, with Harri- 2016 Spartan/Rescue 1 model rescue unit equipped with munications/rehab unit. son 6 kW generator, sold by Fire & Safety Services. a 4 bottle air cascade system. RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
East Orange Ladder Co. 1 has been assigned a 2015 Fer- Fair Haven has accepted delivery of a 2016 Pierce En- South Wall Engine 379 has been assigned a 2016 Pierce rara 102-foot rear mount aerial ladder sold by FF1 Pro- forcer 1500-gpm/500-gwt pumper sold by Fire & Safety Arrow XT 2000-gpm/750-gwt/30-gft/20-gft with Husky 12 fessional Safety Services. Services. foam system, sold by Fire & Safety Services. RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
A refurbished 1987 Baker 95-foot Aerialscope has been Montvale has placed into service a 2016 Pierce Arrow re-mounted on a 2016 Pierce Arrow chassis for Bar- XT PUC model 1500-gpm/500-gwt/50B-gft rescuerington Tower 91, through Fire & Safety Services. pumper that carries five extrication tools. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.
The Byram Township Fire Department recently took delivery of a 2016 KME Predator pumper with 1500 gpm pump and 1000 gallon water tank. The engine was sold by Jim Philips of 1st Priority Emergency Vehicles of Manchester, NJ
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
Long Branch Neptune Hose Company received a 2016 Andover received a 2016 Pierce Saber PUC model 1500Pierce Enforcer 2000-gpm-500-gwt pumper sold by Fire gpm pumper equipped with an air cascade system. & Safety Services. RON JEFFERS
RON JEFFERS
ADAM ALBERTI
Additional new deliveries can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
May, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
Members of East Orange Rescue Co. 1, L-R: Captain William Kingston, and Firefighters Keith Fortunado, Damon Johns and Terence Thornton.
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Union County MAC-1 and former Union Fire Department Chief of Department Fred Fretz with his son Richie, a Union Fire Department Lt. at a third alarm on March 9, 2016.
RON JEFFERS
East Orange Ladder Co. 1 went into service with a new Ferrara 102-foot unit on February 2nd. L-R: Captain Steven Romero, and Firefighters Craig Donatelli, Richard Robinson, Gary Edmonds and Davizael Sanchez.
RON JEFFERS
Members of East Orange Engine Co. 1 with their new Ferrara 1500-gpm pumper. L-R: Captain Anthony Thompson, and Firefighters James Norris, Michael Williamson and Tony Hunter.
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Woodbridge Firefighter Steve Weber operating Engine 3 at a house fire on South Fulton St.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Can Emergency Responders Find Your Home?
May, 2016
DEPARTMENT PROFILE
To see your photos in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR If you’ve ever received a call from people coming to your home for the first time stating, “I’m on your street, but I can’t find your house,” it may be time to check and update your house numbers. If your guests can’t find your home, first responders may not be able to either during an emergency. You might not think about your house numbers on a daily basis, but making sure they’re visible can save your life. Every second counts when responding to an emergency call, and time spent trying to find your home is time wasted. Numbers should be posted near the front door, above eye level, and within a well-lit area. While spelled out or fancy numbers may look nice, they’re harder to read from the street. Stick with basic Arabic numerals, at least four inches high. Make sure the numbers contrast the paint color of the house. For example, light colored walls should have dark numbers. Avoid bronze or brass numbers, they may look nice in the store, but they’re difficult to read on any background. In addition to numbers on your house, it’s also smart to put numbers on your mailbox. Use a reflective material, which you can find at most hardware stores. If you do put numbers on your mailbox, make sure they’re on both sides. Anything you can do to make it easier for emergency responders to find your home, the better. While having your house numbers painted on the curb can also be useful, be cautious of any notices posted to your home about curb painting. It is a common scam; someone will leave a notice that your house numbers will be painted on your curb for a fee. Contact your city to see if they require curb numbers and if it is a service they provide. Some other things to keep in mind: · Make sure that your house numbers are easily seen from 150 feet · If your house is at the end of a long lane, or driveway, post house numbers near the street where cars enter your property · Numbers should be easy to see in both the day and night · Check periodically to make sure that trees, bushes or shrubbery don’t obscure your house numbers · It is not necessary to include the street name on your house or mailbox, especially if it forces a reduction in the physical size of the house numbers
973-338-3637 862-202-1990 edmaysgold@gmail.com www.facebook.com/EdMaysGoldLeaf Apparatus that has served Green Brook Fire Department in Somerset County, NJ
EDDIE PFEIFER
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FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
The crew of Maplewood Engine 32 at the scene of a third alarm in Union on 3-9-16.
RON JEFFERS
North Hudson Deputy Chief Charles Thomas gives members instructions during a working fire that involved the rear of a twostory wood-frame dwelling on 27th Street, Union City, March 24th.
The NJ EMS Task Force team at the conference.
KEVIN CLARK
KEITH ADDIE - NJFIREGROUNDPHOTOS.COM
Perth Amboy Fire Department Honor Guard.
DANIEL ARROYO
Perth Amboy Captain Rob Bunten responded with his engine company on mutual aid into Woodbridge on March 19, 2016 to provide assistance at a house fire on South Fulton St.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
Vulnerability LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The attacks in Brussels and Paris remind us of our own vulnerability to another large-scale terrorist assault on our soil. Such a strike surely would further tax our already strained emergency response system. In times of crisis during the last nine decades, New Jersey repeatedly has turned to its army of EMS volunteers. Our predecessors answered “the call” decades ago during the Hindenburg and Morro Castle disasters, as we did on 9/11 and for weeks afterward, and through many devastating storms, blizzards, floods and other catastrophes. Undeniably, CJM PHOTOS
Fire destroys home in Orange
The Orange Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire a little after noon on April 1. A second alarm was requested shortly after all crews were ordered out of the structure. The fire was in a two and a half story wood frame occupied residential structure. After fire broke through the roof, a third alarm assignment was requested to the scene with mutual aid assigned for covers.
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without its EMS volunteers, New Jersey could not adequately manage another Superstorm Sandy or World Trade Center-type event. Today, again, we remain ready to respond. New Jersey’s EMS volunteers answer hundreds of thousands of calls annually in their communities. With our growing elderly population and increasing terrorism threat, EMS volunteers have never been more relevant or essential. The 87-year-old nonprofit EMS Council of New Jersey represents 20,000 volunteers affiliated with nearly 300 squads. We’re always looking for new members. To join or support us, visit http://production.njsfac.org/. Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. emscnj.pres@gmail.com
Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. is president of the EMS Council of New Jersey.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
EVAN WEBSTER
The Fairmount Fire Company No. 1 (Washington Twp NJ) operates this 2011 Ford F-350 as Utility 2-8.
ROMAN ISARYK
United States Air Force 67-32 was on a drill with NJ Forestry Service SHANNON FLUKE
Car versus restaurant in Netcong
At approximately 8:29 p.m. on April 1st, the Netcong Fire Department was dispatched to Bistro 46 in Netcong for a reported car versus building with injuries. On scene, crews found a white Porsche had hit the A/D corner of the building, causing damage to both the vehicle and the structure. It also compromised the gas line to the building. NJ Natural Gas arrived and turned off the gas to the restaurant. As the car was being removed, crews encountered an active gas leak. Homes close to the structure were evacuated as a precaution. Once the shut off was located and the gas was completely turned off, the car was able to be fully removed. Firefighters then vented the restaurant and began clean up. Crews were back in quarters at approximately 12:30 a.m.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to heather@1strespondernews.com
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
JOHN M. MALECKY
Manitou Park E-1811, 2001 E-ONE Cyclone II, 1250/970/30 with a 7.5 kw generator.
DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
Hamburg Fire-Rescue responds to MVA
EMT's from the Hamburg- Fire Rescue EMS responded Saturday morning, March 12th to a multi vehicle MVA on Route 94 in the vicinity of Indian Fields. Initial reports from the scene indicated that the aided suffered minor injuries. Hamburg Police were also on the scene assisting with scene safety and traffic control
JOHN M. MALECKY
Matawan Borough's E-2977, 1993 Pierce Lance 1750/750 with 6 kw generator
JOHN M. MALECKY
The Forked River Fire Department in Lacey Township has Tower 6015, a 2009 Pierce Arrow XT 100 foot platform. It has a 200 gpm pump, a 300 gallon water tank and a 15 kw generator.
WTES
Serious MVA EVAN WEBSTER
The Budd Lake Fire Department operates this 2003 GMC/Seagrave Walk-In as Tactical 55.
Westampton Township, NJ. On the afternoon of March 22nd, Westampton Township Emergency Services responded to Rancocas Road between Irick Road and Municipal Driver for a serious motor vehicle accident. Squad 27234, Ambulance 2723, and Chief 2700 were assisted by Willingboro Fire Department, Mt. Laurel Fire Department, and Willingboro Township EMS. One patient flown to trauma center and one transported to local hospital by ground.
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Homeland Security CHAPLAINS CORNER Pastor Fernando Villicana
PETE MONACO, NJFFS
Wildfire threatens Sayreville homes Sayreville, NJ. About 2 p.m. on Friday, March 18, 2016, 911 calls starting coming in for a brush fire off Beth Anne Way in Sayreville. Arriving fire chiefs reported a large wind-pushed fire heading toward homes on Beth Anne Way and North Ernston Road. Shortly thereafter, B10 NJ Forest Fire Service crews started arriving. B10 Incident Command Trevor Raynor reported over five acres burning heavily in a combination of phragmites and pine forest.
JUMP TO FILE #032016115 He immediately ordered extra structural engines to protect about a half dozen homes and more state resources, including a helicopter due to the 30+ mph wind gusts. B10's dozer started cutting a line behind the homes and it was decided to go to an indirect attack with a firing operation. Once incident command got a better look from the air, it was re-
alized some of the head fire diminished and a combination direct/indirect attack brought the fire into partial containment. A few fingers on the south and west flanks of the fire were burned-out to get 100% containment. The fire was declared contained at 7 p.m. that night at 16 acres. No homes were damaged. The fire is currently under investigation. - PETE MONACO
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The Department of Homeland Security: Formed post 9-11 as a counterterrorism measure. Its stated goal is “to prepare for, prevent, and respond to domestic emergencies, particularly terrorism.” This is accomplished (in part) by analyzing and sharing information. This is what we’re going to do analyze and share information from the Word of God to help prepare for, prevent and respond to domestic emergencies (marriages). Philippians 2:2 (Phillips) "Live together in harmony and love, as though you only had one mind and spirit between you." Wouldn’t that be great? If we would do this, we would all be on the same page. Our marriages would flourish. Is that even possible (harmony, love, sharing the same mind/spirit)? The answer is yes! Remember, God would never frustrate himself by asking us to do something that was impossible. Not only is it possible, but it is God’s desire for our lives and He’ll help us get there. The reality is that a lot of families are in disharmony, conflict and disappointment. A lot of people will say, "I feel cheated by my marriage." Maybe you’re like the guy who said: "When I got married, it started off ideal; a few months later it turned into an ordeal, now I'm looking for a new deal." What happened? Well, good marriages and families don't just happen! Ephesians 4:3 "Make every ef-
fort to keep the unity of the Spirit." It takes energy and effort to create/maintain Homeland Security. If you need some work when it comes to unity in your marriage, I've got some good news for you: You don't have to completely change your life around to make your marriage better. Minor changes will make major differences. 2 Keys to Homeland Security. KEY #1 COMMUNICATION Proverbs 13:17 "Reliable communication permits progress." In any emergency, the fire service’s top priority is to maintain good communication. This is why ICS is so important - a common language for all emergency responders. For progress to take place in your marriage, you've got to talk to each other too. I must be concise and reliable. OHRC - open, honest reliable communication permits progress. KEY #2 CONSIDERATION Consideration means you start thinking of “we” instead of “ me.” In an emergency it involves a good size up, getting the whole picture. In marriages it means showing common courtesy, helping each other. Ephesians 4:2 "Show your love by being helpful to each other.” How many have been told “Don’t just say you love me - show you love me” or, “talk is cheap.” We should all make an effort to show our love to each other. James 3:17 "Wisdom shows itself in being considerate." A mark of being wise is being considerate (thoughtful, kind, understanding, selfless…) The Bible says in Romans 15 “We must be considerate of the doubts and fears of others. If we do what helps them we will build them up in the Lord.” These are just two keys to many in assuring Homeland Security.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
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The Chester Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 still operates this 1990 Pierce Dash Walk-In Rescue. Rescue 5 has served Chester for over 25 years EVAN WEBSTER
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New Jersey
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT First Priority Emergency Vehicles Expands Operations Nationwide
First Priority Emergency Vehicles, one of America’s leading designers, manufacturers and distributors of a comprehensive array of firefighting, medical, rescue, public safety and mission-specific vehicles and equipment, has expanded its operations from 3 facilities across New Jersey to major new sales and production facilities in North Carolina, California and Texas. With a significant nationwide distribution and service capability, First Priority provides comprehensive vehicle and apparatus solutions for federal, state, and local agencies and fleet customers nationwide.
Whether the need is a patient transport ambulance, a critical care unit, an advanced life support ambulance in the emergency medical service or a fire pumper, aerial ladder/platform, rescue truck in the fire service, First Priority has the solution. For nearly 20 years, First Priority has distinguished itself from the competition by offering vehicles that are best suited to each client's exact mission and offers both stock designs as well as fully customized emergency vehicles to suit a wide variety of budgets.
By maintaining a firm understanding of the most current automotive, emergency, safety and fuel technologies, First Priority has the ex-
pertise, reputation, experience and resources to ensure their customers receive high quality vehicles and transportation solutions for emergency response, mission specific purposes and general departmental functions.
First Priority applies its significant production experience and technical knowledge to remain at the forefront of the specialized vehicle industry. The company takes a collaborative, consultative approach to its clients' needs and identifies cost effective solutions to produce high-value vehicles, products and solutions. Robert J. Freeman, President of First Priority Emergency Vehicles, states “Across the nation, First Priority products are used daily by American heroes in their life saving
and property preserving missions.
First Priority is consistently recognized by first responders across the US and worldwide for technical innovation and functional design. We are grateful for their sacrifices and proud to partner with them by providing the tools necessary to ensure the public safety of our nation and its families.”
First Priority is a proud recipient of the prestigious President’s E-Award for its contribution to the American economy through exporting of premium-grade American made products worldwide. For additional information, visit First Priority at www.FirstPriorityGlobal.net and by phone at (800) 247-7725.
FF1, NJ’s Exclusive Ferrara Dealer
2015 was a successful year for FF1 Professional Safety Services, New Jersey’s exclusive Ferrara Fire Apparatus dealer. The year featured the sale of nine apparatus, including a ladder and rescue pumper to Orange, a ladder and engine to East Orange, ladders to Fords District #7 in Woodbridge and Bay Head, MVP pumpers to both Emerson and Greene Dreher in NE Pennsylvania, as well as an engine to New Brunswick. 2016 has started no differently with a number of new trucks already in production, including the new HD77 aerial ladder for the Sea Isle City Fire Department.
The heavy duty construction of Ferrara Fire Apparatus is a key feature to many of its users. The cab and body of their apparatus, built from extruded aluminum frame and 3/16” thick marine grade aluminum plate, are always heavy duty.
By many, they are considered the strongest and most durable in the industry, giving departments the confidence that their trucks will continue to perform well over time, even in the toughest of conditions. In an independent third party study, Ferrara cabs and bodies proved to be stronger in overall tensile/load
limit, endurance limit, and RBM (Resisting Bending Moments).
The Multi Vocational Pumper, or “MVP”, has been popular for departments looking for an apparatus that gives them more flexibility within one vehicle. As FF1 Marketing Director Bryan Crawford likes to describe it, “it’s a Home Depot on wheels.”
FF1 Owner Jonathon Van Norman explains, “With tighter budgets and reduced manpower throughout many departments, the need for multipurpose fire apparatus is on the rise and Ferrara is the leader in the industry designing trucks like this. Not only can they provide a MVP Rescue Pumper, but the MVP can also be built as an aerial ladder as well.” It’s no question that the purchase of a new apparatus is a huge decision.
If you are looking for a fire truck that is built to last, as well as have a dealer that is with you every step of the way from initial design, construction, delivery, equipment mounting and service, then FF1 Professional Safety Services and Ferrara Fire Apparatus should be your next choice for your new fire apparatus.
Additional Vendor News can be found at www.1rbn.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
PROFESSIONAL SAFETY SERVICES
May, 2016
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www.FF1.com
www.sutphen.com phone: 800-400-8017
FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES
web: www.f-ss.com
ONE DAYS INSTALLATION! LIFETIME WARRANTY sales@armor-tuff.com • www.armor-tuff.com • 855-72FLOOR
www.absolutefire.com
800-393-4032 • CombatSupportProducts.com
www.mobile-eyes.com
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
New Jersey
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
Campbell Supply Co. LLC
Campbell Supply Co. LLC is a family owned second-generation company and the leader in Fire Apparatus Sales and Service, for over 49 years.
Campbell Supply services all brands of fire apparatus from our three facilities located in South Brunswick and Newark NJ, and Montgomery NY. Campbell Supply is proud to represent sales and service of Spartan Emergency Rescue Vehicles, Wheeled Coach Ambulances, and ASAP Emergency Vehicles. Campbell Supply’s facility is going strong now in our third year here at our South Brunswick location. Stop in and see our 90,000 square foot facility that opened in the Summer of 2013.
We have one of the largest truck parts warehouses on the east coast, holding over 3 million dollars in parts inventory. With 18 parts delivery trucks, that make deliveries twice a day to New Jersey, New York, and Eastern Pennsylvania; we
strive to make sure the customers get what they need.
Our service department utilizes 39 service bays and two wash bays, with over 30 ASE Certified technicians, each of which carry certifications for engines, transmissions, axles, pumps, electrical, hydraulics, ladder refurbishing and repair as well as other services. Campbell Supply also offers five mobile repair trucks that are ready to repair your vehicle at your location. Our 24/7 Emergency Repair Service makes sure that no matter the time we are available to respond to our customer’s emergencies! With the first quarter of 2016 in the rear view, Campbell Supply is preparing to deliver Spartan fire trucks all throughout the tri-state area.
We are currently working with the Philadelphia Fire Department as well as a few other customers for
multiple orders including both pumpers and boomers.
Spartans All-in-One Boomers design lends itself to protect raised homes on the Jersey Shore with the extra reach of the waterway.
Lastly, our ambulance division has been going very strong! Wheeled Coach is the largest manufacturer of ambulances with hundreds of chassis on the ground ready to go, which translates to shorter build times and the final product to you faster!
Campbell Supply has several Wheeled Coach units available, so do not hesitate to contact us regarding Wheeled Coach ambulances! Feel free to stop in to our facility located a mile from Exit 8A on the NJ Turnpike. Come see our stock of vehicles that consist of Spartan ER pumpers, Wheeled Coach ambulances, and ASAP vehicles. Or call in to schedule a demo today!
Absolute Fire Protection
Absolute Fire Protection Co. Inc. was founded in 1946, and is celebrating 70 years this year.
The company started from an industrial extinguisher and training company, and added municipal sales over the years.
As years have gone on, the company shifted its focus to the municipal side of the business and now focus specifically on fire apparatus sales and service.
Absolute Fire became a dealer for Emergency One (E-One) fire apparatus in 1983 and have been with them for 33 years as of this year. We have been a Top Ten Dealer for over 20 years.
Tony Amoroso (VP) was recently named #1 E-One Sales Representative for North America for 2013. We currently cover the northern 14 counties of New Jersey and the City of New York from our South Plainfield based facility. We are proud to say that E-One has over 500 fire apparatus in service in New Jersey and growing every day!
Today, Absolute Fire Protection Absolute is owned by four (4) equal partners, who have worked here for a minimum of 30 years each. President Mike Pizio, VP of Sales Tony Amoroso, Secretary Frank
Wrublevski and VP of Service Sal Giannotta.
We have a staff of 13 full time and three part time employees in sales, service and administration. And we are continuing to grow as we are looking for additional sales representatives in some parts of the state. Absolute Fire apparatus services include six full time EVT apparatus technicians, a 4,000 sq. ft indoor service facility, and three mobile service vans.
We would like to say thank you to our customers and friends in the industry allowing us to be a part of their history as well for 70 years, with many more to come. In May of this year, will be hosting an Aerial Road Show here in New Jersey. This is something we feel the industry has been missing in the area. This allows customers in multiple regions to not only view apparatus in a show setting, but it lets them try out the apparatus for themselves and see how it all works. Please join us on May 11th at the Adelphia Fire headquarters, May 12th at the Morris Township Fire headquarters, or on May 14th at Meadowlands Stadium.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHT Fire & Safety Services
Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. opened its doors on June 1, 1964 at 451 Stelton Rd in Piscataway, with Walter Runyon as its President. The shop was roughly 1000 sq.ft. At that time, it was strictly a loose equipment dealer and did not sell any fire apparatus. One of the early sales representatives, Larry Palmer, convinced Walter that apparatus sales was a great additional offering to give their growing customer base. For a period of time we operated as the Hahn dealer for part of NJ.
In 1977, after an introduction by Mr. “Woody” Campbell of Campbell Supply, Fire & Safety became the Pierce dealer for Northern and Central New Jersey. Our first Pierce sale was a 1977 Dodge mini-pumper delivered to the Robertsville Fire Company in Marlboro Fire District #2. Since that time we have sold nearly 1400 other apparatus – with our 1000th apparatus
being a Saber pumper sold to the Township of Edison in 2009.
In 1982, William Russell agreed to purchase Fire & Safety Services from Mr. Runyon. William Russell sought to grow the business and expand the service side. In addition to retaining Karen Kelly, who has been an employee since Day 1, William brought on a former Mack dealership colleague, naming Vincent Scalera Service Manager in June of 1984.
In mid-1984, Pierce offered South Jersey to Fire & Safety as part of a realignment of territories and we agreed. Shortly thereafter, we hired our first South Jersey sales rep, Sam Squire, who still represents, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Salem Counties. We have had the entire state of New Jersey ever since.
In 1986, to better serve our new terri-
80's Pierce
tory and growing business, Fire & Safety Services, relocated to 560 Stelton Road, to an 8000 sq. ft. facility, which provided us with an enormous 4000 sq. ft. of space for apparatus, a huge increase over working in the parking lot at our previous home. This was our home for the next 20+ years. With this expansion meant more employees as we expanded our sales and service force as business continued to grow (including early linchpins hires such as Ken Maser, Mike Lorenson, Sean O’Connor and Eric Trevena).
David Russell grew up around the business from the time William Russell took it over in 1982. In 1990, after college, he returned and worked for the business doing sales support work for a couple of years until he “left” to attend law school and pursue a career in law. In 1999, David returned to Fire & Safety Services and has been a member of the organization ever since, even operating an extension of the company at the factory from 2002 until he returned to New Jersey in 2005. A year later, David Russell took over as the principal of the company. In 2007, Fire & Safety Services moved to its current home at 200 Ryan Street in South Plainfield. This move took our overall space to over 18,000 sq.ft. with over 15,000 of that dedicated to
Jackson Township
Allamuchy
parts and service space. This move allowed us to provide adequate space for our staff to serve our ever-growing customer base and expand our offering to include other product lines (Firematic BRAT, Frontline Command apparatus, Sealegs Amphibious Craft) and service (custom fabrication and welding work). The move allowed us to also bring on
additional staff and has seen us grow from a company of five people in 1964 to nearly 50 full and part-time employees. This includes 20 dedicated service technicians, who are almost evenly split between shop and road technicians and perform roughly 3200 service calls per year.
APPARATUS FOR SALE CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR USED VEHICLES ONLINE! VISIT WWW.1RBN.COM CLICK ON “VEHICLES”
20’ Rescue 1® Walk-Around Demo Available for Immediate Delivery. Spartan Metro Star MFD-2015 chassis, Cummins ISL 450 HP diesel engine, seating for crew of six. 20’ all extruded aluminum body, upper storage compartments. Curb side roof access lift-up stairway, absorbent compartment with electric re-loader and dispenser, 9000 lbs. portable winch with three receiver positions. Participating co-op purchasing programs: GSA, H-GAC, and New Jersey State Contract. Contact Mike Marquis (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 in New Jersey, or info@plcustom.com
For Sale First Priority Renaissance Wheeled Coach CitiMedic Type III on a 2014 Chevrolet G 3500 Diesel Chassis $101,995. LonPlate Fllor, FPEV RCT Electrical System Whelen M Series LED Emergency Lighting, Eberhard Handles, Exterior Compartment Bedliner Paint, Interior LED Lighting And Much More!!! For additional information or photos, email vsales@emergencyvehiclecenter.com or call 732-657-1104.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ
May, 2016
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May, 2016
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Congratulations Township of Union Fire Department
Pierce Velocity Pumper • 70” Chassis with 10” Raised Roof • Detroit Diesel DD13 500 hp Engine • Oshkosh TAK-4 Independent Front Suspension • Allison EVS4000 P Automatic Transmission • 750 Gallon Poly Tank • Husky 12 Single Agent Foam System • Waterous CSU 1750 GPM Single Stage Pump • Job #28832 • Delivered in December 2015 • Sold by, Gregg Cariddi
phone: 800-400-8017
FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES South Plainfield, NJ
web: www.f-ss.com