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AUGUST, 2017
NORTH NEWTON TWP. BARN DESTROYED BY EVENING BLAZE
DENNY CLOPPER
North Newton Twp., PA - On the evening of June 10th, Cumberland County units were alerted to North Newton Township for a reported barn fire at 34 Fish Hatchery Road. At 6:12 P.M., Friendship Hose Co.47 was dispatched out with several other departments due on Box 247-04. Heavy Smoke could be seen from several miles out as units responded to the scene. - See full story on page 8
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August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
ADVERTISER INDEX A guide to finding great companies
Company
Page
AirVac 911
31
911 Rapid Response
39
Armor Tuff Flooring
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Campbell Supply Co.
1,44
Choice Marketing
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CILS
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Command Fire App.
10
EES
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ESI Equipment
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Finley Fire Equipment
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Fire Line Equipment
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Marco Equipment Sales
11
Fire Flow Services
29
Hoffman Radio Network
Marion Body
Mid Atlantic Rescue Spartan
Spotted Dog Tech. Sutphen
Task Force Tips
Waterway of PA Zodiac
ANTHONY MICCICKE
Lighter Fluid Ignites Debris Under Deck
Reading, PA - While many were enjoying the 4th of July holiday, one homeowner got carried away with some lighter fluid. Shortly after noon, a phone call was placed to Berks County DES reporting a fire on a back deck at 1310 North 10th Street. Engine-9 arrived behind the dwelling with some debris burning off of the deck. The flammable liquids fire was extinguished quickly with water and dry chemical.
KEN SNYDER
Crews Make Quick Work of Attic Fire in Throop
Throop, PA - On June 2nd, crews responded to a 'smoke in the attic' call in the 300 block of Rebecca St., in the Lackawanna County community. The alarm came in at about 6:45 P.M. and the two-and-a-half story house was evacuated, including pets. Companies went to work and no one was injured. The blaze was considered to be non-suspicious.
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CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 21 No. 8 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, 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 A division of: brought to the attention of the newspaper during the s a m e month of publication.
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BOB DEVONSHIRE
PATRICK GRIFFIN
Dog Rescued from Apartment Fire in Reading Reading, PA - With most "D" platoon companies sitting down for lunch on June 25th, the Berks County DES dispatched a box alarm for an apartment fire at 1157 North 5th Street. Acting Chief Rehr (C8) was less than a block away and immediately reported smoke showing from the rear of a three-story MOR converted apartment building. Firefighters stretched a line into the building and located a kitchen fire on the second-floor. Crews located and removed a dog from the dwelling and gave it oxygen. All remaining searches were clear. No other injuries were reported and the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. The dog was transported to a local veterinarian. Chief Mogel (C2) had command.
Fire Strikes Wood Working Firm in Lancaster County Providence Twp., PA - The Quarryville Fire Co. was dispatched to an automatic alarm in the 2300 block of Beaver Valley Pike on July 5th shortly after 5:30 P.M. Lancaster County 911 gave an update to responding units of a water flow and pump run alarm zone. On arrival, a working fire was discovered in the generator room, causing the alarm to be upgraded to a building fire. Fire equipment from Refton, Bart Twp. and Willow Street Fire Companies were dispatched to assist Quarryville firefighters. Crews stretched a hand-line into the generator room and quickly knocked down the fire. Firefighters then checked for extension before completing overhaul and ventilation operations. Crews remained on the scene for about an hour.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
RAYMOND STENDER
Busy Day for Erie Firefighters Erie, PA - At about 6:45 A.M. on May 25th, Erie firefighters responded to a reported structure at 511 E 25th Street. Units responding were taking up from another structure fire in which three dogs died. Among those responding were Chief324, Tower-2 and Engines 13, 12, 8 and 6. Engine-13 encountered heavy smoke upon arrival. Fire was found on the second-floor, in walls and in the flooring of the vacant building. This is the second fire to occur in the same building within the last seven months.
JOSEPH LENNON
Single-Vehicle Rollover with Entrapment in Lake Harmony
Carbon County, PA - On June 18th, Lake Harmony Fire Co. and Lake Harmony Ambulance were dispatched to a report of a single-vehicle rollover with wires down on Route 940, near the Econo Lodge Motel. Carbon County Communications reported that all occupants were out of the vehicle. Upon arrival, the driver was trapped in the overturned vehicle. Rescue-17’s crew made quick work of removing the door and extricating the patient. Lake Harmony Fire Police were also on scene for traffic control. Crews were on scene for just over one hour.
EMS If you have photos you would like to see in our “EMS” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
ANTHONY MICCICKE
Firefighters Handle ThreeCar Crash with Rollover
Reading, PA - On Saturday, July 1st just after 7:00 P.M., a car accident was reported at 10th and Penn Streets. Units arrived to find a three-vehicle accident with one car rolled over. Bystanders reported that several people crawled out of the upside down SUV and ran away. Firefighters treated the other occupants. Chief Banks (C5) was in command.
The Reading Fire Department operates this 2017 Ford/AEV Trauma Hawk ambulance as Medic 1. The department provides EMS with four medic-units staffed round-the-clock.
JIM DECK
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Coudersport Vol. FD now runs a 2009 Spartan Gladiator/Crimson tower with a 1500 pump, 300 water and 100' mid-mount tower. Tower 48-9 was purchased from the Warrior Run Area FD of Northumberland County, who purchased it as a demo unit.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
JAY MABUS
Two-Alarm Garage Fire in Milton Borough
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The East Petersburg Fire Company operates this 1996 Freightliner/E-One as Traffic 23. They purchased it from the Rural Security Fire Company of Lebanon County, who operated it as Squad 43. Rural Security purchased it from Minquas EMS in Downingtown.
Milton Borough, PA - On Tuesday, June 13th at 5:43 P.M., the Milton Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Turbot Avenue and Locust Streets for a garage fire. Chief-1502 arrived on scene to find a well involved garage on Locust Lane, with heavy fire impinging on a house. Chief-1502 then requested a second-alarm. Engine 15-2 arrived on scene and brought a supply line from the hydrant at Locust Street and Turbot Avenue. The crew from Engine 152 pulled a two-inch attack line and
JUMP TO FILE #061417111 knocked the bulk of the fire down while protecting the exposure building as other units arrived on scene. Engine 15-1 laid an additional supply line on Park Avenue. The crew pulled a one-and-three-quarter inch attack line and helped Engine 15-2's crew extinguish the remaining fire. Mutual aid crews from Companies 5, 9 and 2 assisted with overhaul and relieving the initial at-
tack crews. Units on scene included Chiefs 1501-Stump, 1502-Lupo, 1503Derr, 501, 502, 503, 901, 903 and 1701; Engines 15-2, 15-1, 9-1, 17-1 and 5-1; Trucks 15-1 and 2-1; Rescue 5-1; Traffic 15; Micu 15; Ambulance 5-1 and the Milton Police Department. LC Rescue-13, Engine 12-1 and NC Truck-73 all transferred to Station-15 to provide protection while units operated on scene. - SCOTT DERR
FRANK ROBINSON
Amity Fire Company used to run this 2002 Pierce Dash 1500/750. The unit previously operated in Myrtle Beach, SC.
FRANK ROBINSON
Lancaster County Hazmat once ran this 1974 Mack CF 1250/500/380 Foam. The unit previously saw service with the Mount Sinai FD in Suffolk County, NY.
JAY MABUS
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August, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
In memory of those who gave all
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Kentucky: James "Dewon" Wells, 52 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: May 5, 2017 Death Date: May 6, 2017 Fire Department: Montgomery County Fire/EMS Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic James "Dewon" Wells worked his shift on May 5, 2017, from 0800hrs to 1600hrs. During his shift, he complained to a fire department member that he was experiencing numbness in his mouth. Immediately before leaving the station at the end of his shift, he complained to his chief that he had a headache and did not feel well. The following day, May 6, 2017, at approximately 1400hrs, Firefighter/Paramedic Wells was still not feeling well and went to a medical clinic, but returned home since he started to feel slightly better. Soon thereafter, his wife came home and found him unresponsive on the couch and not breathing. He wife initiated CPR and Firefighter/Paramedic Wells was transported to St. Joseph Hospital in Mount Sterling, where he was pronounced deceased.
Florida: James Franklin Dorminy, 55 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: May 9, 2017 Death Date: May 18, 2017 Fire Department: Reedy Creek Emergency Services Initial Summary: Lieutenant James Franklin Dorminy worked on May 8, 2017, and ran three calls: amusement park ride evacuation; rescue-assist at citizen cardiac arrest; and a false fire alarm. His shift ended at 0700hrs on May 9, 2017. After his shift, Dorminy went to an off-site, private gym for his regular workout. Lieutenant Dorminy was found floating in the pool by bystanders at approximately 0830hrs and was resuscitated. He never regained consciousness and the family terminated life support on Thursday, May 18, 2017.
Texas: Scott Deem, 31 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 18, 2017 Death Date: May 18, 2017 Fire Department: San Antonio Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Scott Deem died from injuries received while operating at a fouralarm fire in a shopping center. Fire crews were searching a gym in the strip mall for any possible occupants as fire conditions rapidly intensified and the structure began to collapse. All firefighters were ordered to exit the building but Deem was unable to do so before becoming caught and trapped. Crews continued to battle the fire but due to conditions were unable to reach Firefighter Deem. According to initial reports, another member of the initial search team was also trapped in the fire but was pulled to safety along with an injured member of the Rapid Intervention Team. The two injured firefighters were transported to the hospital where one remains in critical but stable condition.
Georgia: John Chester, 56 Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date: May 18, 2017 Death Date: May 18, 2017 Fire Department: Whitfield County Fire Department Initial Summary: Several hours after answering an emergency response call during his normally scheduled shift, Battalion Chief John Chester passed away while at home of a yet to be determined cause.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future 1st Responders” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
After attending the Harrisburg Fire Expo in May, this adorable little girl's mom, Lauren Shutt, sent us this message: "My daughter's been looking through your newspaper since we got it yesterday at the fire expo!" Two-year-old Laila's dad, Larry A. Shutt, is the Chief of West End Fire Company in Sheridan, and also
serves as Chief at Williamstown EMS. Lauren works as the secretary of both places. Laila's grandfather, Larry M. Shutt, was also the Chief at West End Fire Co. for many, many years. Now we know where little Laila gets her love for anything firefighter related! - LINDSEY PALMER
DENNY CLOPPER
North Newton Twp. Barn Destroyed by Evening Blaze
Future 1st Responder, 2-year-old Laila Shutt.
Laila has such great taste in reading material!
PROVIDED
North Newton Twp., PA - On the evening of June 10th, Cumberland County units were alerted to North Newton Township for a reported barn fire at 34 Fish Hatchery Road. At 6:12 P.M., Friendship Hose Co.47 was dispatched out with several other departments due on Box 247-04. Heavy Smoke could be seen from several miles out as units responded to the scene. Friendship Hose Co. Chief Brad Stouffer was the first-in unit on the scene to find a 30’x40’ barn fully involved with exposures. Chief Stouffer reported to dispatch that he had a working fire and established command. Firefighters arrived and went to work pulling attack lines. Chief-47 directed other incoming units to work on setting up water supply operations
JUMP TO FILE #061617110 with the incoming tankers. Firefighters worked for approximately 20 minutes conducting an exterior defensive attack before getting a significant knockdown on the fire. Command reported the fire under control at 6:35 P.M. Crews were committed on the scene for an extended period conducting extensive overhaul operations. During operations, the tin roof collapsed, making efforts to extinguish the fire more difficult. Firefighters worked to remove portions of the tin roof and side walls of the barn to gain access to active hot spots and smoldering sections to ensure extinguishment of the
fire. The barn was a total loss, but there were no reports of any lost livestock that we are aware of. The origin and cause of the Saturday evening blaze has not yet been released and no injuries were reported. Emergency departments due on the Box responded from Cumberland County’s Friendship Hose Co.47, Upper Frankford Twp. Vol. Fire Co.48, South Newton Twp. Vol. Fire (Walnut Bottom) Co.49, Penn Twp. VFD Co.50, NewburgHopewell VFC Co.51, Shippensburg’s Vigilant Hose Co.52, Shippensburg’s Cumberland Valley Hose Co.53 and Shippensburg Area EMS Co.73. - WILLIAM KING
PROVIDED DENNY CLOPPER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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ANTIQUE APPARATUS
If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Former Radnor Fire Co.'s 1954 B75 Mack Pumper.
TERRY RITZ
JOE STOUDT
Firefighters arrived with heavy fire conditions in this auto repair garage at 35 North Carroll Street in Reading.
Second-Alarm Struck at Auto Repair Garage DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The East Petersburg Fire Co. of Lancaster County maintains this 1953 Seagrave Anniversary open cab engine. The engine had been sold and was bought back by the fire company. It has a 750 pump and can carry 500 water.
COMMAND VEHICLES
If you have photos for Command Vehicles, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Reading, PA - On the morning of July 5th, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a frantic phone call reporting a car on fire inside an auto repair garage. Box Alarm 0402 was transmitted for 35 North Carroll Street. Units arrived to find a singlestory garage with fire throughout. As firefighters began deploying lines, a garage employee advised that a vehicle caught fire while up
JUMP TO FILE #070517141 on a hydraulic lift. A large-caliber stream was directed towards a home which was exposed on the "B" side. With crews working to set up more heavy streams, a second-alarm was requested by Acting Chief Tom Rehr (C8). Tower-1 was set up and di-
rected to deploy their aerial stream into the garage bay. The bulk of the fire was reported knocked down after 30 minutes. Crews would remain on scene for a few hours overhauling the gutted building. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. Units from West Reading and Spring Township also assisted. - JASON BATZ
APPARATUS IN ACTION
If you have photos for our Apparatus in Action feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
C1 of the Hazleton FD is a 2017 Ford.
KEN SNYDER
Amity Fire Company runs this 2002 Ford Explorer Chiefs vehicle.
FRANK ROBINSON
New Franklin, PA Volunteer Truck-17 operating at a smoke in the building call.
SHANE SHIFFLETT
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August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Tis’ the Season…. For Fresh Produce! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
Firefighters watch as flames roll over their heads in the flashover container as the evolution finishes. J. KRIESHER
Schuylkill County Firefighters Participate in New Flashover Program Schuylkill County, PA – On Saturday, May 13th, Schuylkill County firefighters gathered at the Schuylkill County Fire Training Grounds in West Mahanoy Township to participate in the final session of PA State Fire Academy “On the Road” Flashover Survival and Recognition. The session began at 8 A.M. when firefighters from Pottsville, Port Carbon, Schuylkill Haven, Sheppton-Oneida, Orwigsburg and Mahanoy City gathered in one of the classrooms on the school grounds to listen to a two hour lecture about fire behavior and flashover. The class was led by Jim Misstishin and Greg Fabrizio Sr. After the lecture, the class was split in two groups and were led to the “container” – a two-level stor-
JUMP TO FILE #062917114 age-like container, where the fire would be led to flashover. The first group helped the instructors load the container with sheets of OSB and a barrel of cut up pallets. The instructors went over some safety topics and crews geared up and donned their SCBA. The students sat in the lower level of the container and watched as the fire went through its stages and eventually flashed in the upper levels of the container. Students were able to see the benefits of door control, ventilation and cooling the environment around them. Watching the fire grow and then die down into its container, stu-
dents were able to put topics discussed in other classes into a handson experience. The students rotated throughout the container, and after multiple flashovers were able to extinguish the fire. The students helped clean up the container and the next group began to load it up for their evolution. The class went through four evolutions before finishing up for the day. The class then helped packed the container up, as it was being picked up to head off to its next destination where more students will be able learn about flashover. This class was the seventh and final class held at the Schuylkill County Fire Training Grounds.
- JC KRIESHER
It’s August and the gardens and markets are overflowing with seasonal produce just waiting to be used in the firehouse kitchen! Not only is the variety this time of year great, but so is the quality. The corn is extra sweet now, the tomatoes are ripe and plump and the hot peppers are at their peak. I am sure by now you have heard of “farm to table," which is the practice of sourcing your food directly from the local farmers. While it may be difficult to “abide” by farm to table exclusively, it is a practice that will definitely result in better food ending up on the kitchen table. Farmer’s Markets are popping up everywhere nowadays, and for good reason! These are great ways for farmers, bakers and all types of culinary artisans to show their wares, and we the consumers get to reap the rewards with great ingredients. It is also an excellent way to get to know these producers and to start a conversation about what is in season and even how to prepare the ingredients. At these markets, anything you find will taste so much better than any other time of year because they are at their peak. Right now, one ingredient for me stands out….tomatoes! No
more pale red, “plastic” tastelessness! Instead, we are blessed with tomatoes that make it worth the wait all year long. Nothing beats a garden fresh tomato with olive oil and some flaky sea salt, simple... and that’s just it when it comes to quality in-season produce, keep it simple! Check out the list below with some preparation ideas! -Zucchini - Grilled with some olive oil, salt and cumin. -Peppers, hot and sweet varieties - Sliced thin and sauteed with garlic and olive oil. -Carrots - Roasted with olive oil, garlic, sliced hot peppers and fresh thyme. Finish with a drizzle of honey. -Herbs - Fresh bright herbs like parsley, cilantro and basil make great pestos, chimichurri and salsa verdes. -Berries - Nothing beats fresh berries with a touch of sugar and topped with homemade whipped cream. -Eggplant - Sliced thin and quick grilled, garnished with lemon, mint, olive oil and salt. -Corn - The sweetest corn doesn’t need much, but for a change of pace, make some Mexican street corn or “Elote”. These are just some ingredients and ideas that you can use, but as always, use your imagination! And did I mention that buying produce that is in season usually means it’s cheaper, and what firehouse doesn’t like a cheap meal bill?!? So head on over to the market and have some fun in the kitchen! Stay safe, eat well!
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT
If you have photos you would like to see in our Emergency Aircraft feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
PROVIDED
SHANE SHIFFLETT
Chambersburg, PA - Air Methods Medevac flying a patient out of Chambersburg Hospital.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
MEET OUR CORRESPONDENTS
PROVIDED
1st Responder News correspondent, David Burns, covering the arrival of Air Force One at Newark Liberty Airport.
David Burns has been a 1st Responder News correspondent since 2013. He has 35 plus years of experience (first major page at the age of 16) shooting and covering breaking and national new events. Some of his credentials include eight years as a lead photo editor at two major New York City area newspapers (NY Post and NY Daily News), NJ/NY State Certified EMT, former Chief of Operations for a NYC based volunteer ambulance corp., and Honorary Chief in the New York State Honorary Fire Chiefs' Association. Some of his specialties include photojournalism, photo editing, emergency medical response, emergency management public information officer, fire and police scene photography, assignment desk operations, twoway radio communications, public safety communications and event planning.
JUMP TO FILE #060317100 David has covered some major stories over the years, including the release of US hostages from Iran in 1980, 1984, 1988 and 1992; Presidential campaigns and Inaugurals; the United States Space Shuttle Program; Papal trips to America in 1980, 1987 and 1995; the first Reagan/Gorbachev summit in Geneva, Switzerland; US Military operations in Central America in 1983 and 1993; and the 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. David also planned and executed the New York Post's special coverage of the 2008 Papal visit to the United States. He directed coverage on the death of Osama Bin Laden, and also planned and executed coverage of the US 2012 Presidential Campaign, including the Inaugural.
FRANK ROBINSON
East Lampeter Township Handles Auto Repair Shop Fire East Lampeter Twp., PA - Fire crews from nine departments responded to an auto repair business at 311 Airport Road on the property of Smokestown Airport in East Lampeter Township on July 12th. Extensive damage from the fire caused the autos, with some still on the lifts, to be destroyed. Firefighters had the blaze contained in 30 minutes. There were no injuries.
Enjoy taking photographs? Get the most out of your hobby! 1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions.
Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! Lindsey@1strespondernews.com DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
The first major assignment that David worked on was the Carter v. Reagan campaign in 1978.
845-534-7500 ext. 212
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
East Petersburg Fire Company operates this 2009 Pierce Contender as Engine 23, and has 1500/1000.
The crew from Engine-216 begins to extinguish the fire.
JESSICA FAUST
Fisherville Handles Vehicle Fire Threatening House Rescue 1741 of the Bethlehem Twp. VFC is a 2016 SVI.
KEN SNYDER
Jackson Twp., PA - On the warm evening of July 5th, members of the Fisherville Volunteer Fire Company were at their station setting up different items for their annual festival when at 7:47 P.M., Box 216-3 was dispatched to the 200 block of Harman Road in Jackson Township for a reported structure fire. This brought units in from Companies 216 (Fisherville), 21 (Elizabethville), 20 (Millersburg), 19 (Carsonville), 29 (Halifax), 26
JUMP TO FILE #071017141 (Berrysburg) and EMS from Life Team - Medic 6. Chief 216-2 arrived on the scene to find a vehicle on fire in a driveway, close to a house with the siding starting to melt off of the house. Tanker-216 arrived on scene first and a single 200' crosslay was deployed. Engine-216 arrived 30 seconds later and the
crew from the Engine utilized the crosslay to extinguish the fire. The house was checked for any extension and none was found. With this information, Command-216 held the box to Companies 216, 21 and Truck-20. After applying a layer of CAFS to the remains of the vehicle and some nearby bushes that burned, the box was placed in service. - JESSE SHUTT
FRANK ROBINSON
Paxtonia Fire Company operates this 1998 Seagrave 100' Tiller.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The United Hook & Ladder Co. 33 of Adams County operates this 2003 E-One Typhoon 17501800/30 Foam as Engine 33-3. It was formerly Engine Tanker-19 of the Bonneauville Community Fire Co. before they merged with United.
JESSICA FAUST
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August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Visiting the Chambersburg Volunteer Fireman’s Museum Chambersburg PA - Back in April, Franklin County had a special museum open house, encouraging people to visit the local museums and learn a little bit about the history of their area. One of the numerous museums that were open was the Chambersburg Volunteer Fireman's Museum. The museum is housed in the former Cumberland Valley Hose Company #5 Station in Chambersburg. Upon pulling up in the block of the museum with my friend, Patrick Shoop Sr., the building stood out with its open two-bay doors and large house siren on the roof. The front of the building is immaculate and brings you back 40-50 years with the arched doorways and the two antique engines sitting just inside. When my friend and I walked in the door, we were greeted by Terry Shaffer and welcomed into the museum and former fire station. Terry was very knowledgeable on the history of the apparatus, equipment and general history of the Chambersburg area fire companies. Immediately inside the bay doors sits a 1947 Mack 1000-GPM engine, the "Blue Goose" of the Cumberland Valley Hose Co., and a 1953 Oren 750-GPM of the Good Will Steam Fire Engine & Hose Co. The Oren had been refurbished and the Mack was in original condition, but still clean and ready for action. Also housed in the bays are a 1903 LaFrance steamer, a 1925 American LaFrance pumper, both of the Cumberland Valley, and a 1936 Ward LaFrance from the Junior Hose & Truck Co. #2. This rig sports a bright chrome yellow paint scheme and sits beside sev-
JUMP TO FILE #052617104 eral hose reels from the Chambersburg companies. One of the hose reels has survived from the burning of Chambersburg on July 30, 1864 by Confederate troops during the Civil War. There are also cases of ribbons from parades the companies went to, and one display case is full of diecast fire trucks from the collection of the late Guy Flory. Beside the steamer is the gamewell ticker tape, with the alarm bell and display for sounding out and showing the number of the street box being pulled. The original board listing all the street box locations is still attached to the wall, filling it almost floor to ceiling. There is also a gift shop with memorabilia to purchase, to help support the museum. The second-floor still has the brass pole down to the apparatus floor, and the meeting room is filled with display cases. There are old uniforms, turnout gear, musical instruments, badges, extinguishers, ribbons, books and photos. It is an impressive collection of items from the long history of the Chambersburg fire companies. The museum is located at 441 Broad Street in Chambersburg, but doesn't have regular hours of operation. If you wish to visit the museum, call Jeff Umberger at 717-496-6492 to arrange an appointment to visit. If you are in the area, it is definitely a place to see. Many thanks again to Terry Shaffer for the tour. We hope to see much success for the museum!
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Cumberland Valley's "Blue Goose" Mack Engine, with Terry Shaffer discussing the rig's history.
- DARIN SMITH
In the 1800's and early 1900's fire companies were given ribbons for marching in line of parade, a collection of the ribbons collected by local companies.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The front of the Chambersburg Volunteer Fireman's Museum, former Cumberland Valley Hose Company #5.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The 1953 Oren of the Good Will Steam Fire Engine & Hose Co., with Terry Shaffer (right) and Pat Shoop Sr., talking firehouse history.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Jconboy@waterwayinc.com
August, 2017
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HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
STEPHEN BARRETT
I'm Brigid Macellis and this is Firefighter Tinkerbell! I've been a member at Slackwood Fire Company in Lawrence, NJ since 2014. I joined as a Junior and then worked my way up to being state certified Firefighter 1. I decided to get the Firefighter Tinkerbell tattoo because as a kid, I'd always dress up as a firefighter and my mom called me Firefighter Tinkerbell! I got the tattoo done in January of 2017.
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
FRANK ROBINSON
Accident with Entrapment in Lancaster County
Lancaster County, PA - On June 2nd, East Lampeter Township Fire Companies responded to an MVA with entrapment on Route 30. One person was freed by firefighters and taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Blaze Destroys Home and Damages Two Others in Shenandoah Shenandoah, PA - On June 19th at 4:41 P.M., the Shenandoah Fire Department (Five Stations), Mahanoy City West End Rescue 993 and Mahanoy City Ambulance were dispatched to 323 East Lloyd Street in Shenandoah for a house fire. The 911 center was receiving multiple phone calls of a structure fire at that location. The Shenandoah police arrived within minutes and found smoke and flames showing from the 'Charlie' side of the row home. The fire spread quickly and began to move throughout the third-floor and threatened to spread to the next door home. Shenandoah Fire Chief-740 ordered Frackville-Goodwill Ladder 43-20 to be dispatched and respond to the scene to assist with truck company operations. Rescue Hook and Ladder Squirt-745 and Columbia Engine742 arrived on the location first. Engine-742 connected to a hydrant on south Catherine Street and laid into the fire scene on Lloyd Street. Squirt-745 staged in front of the home and acquired a water supply from Engine-742. The Squirt sent its ladder to the roof of the exposure home on the 'B' side. The firefighters advanced hose-lines from Squirt-745 to the rear of the home to attack
JUMP TO FILE #062017113 the fire. The firefighters advanced hose-lines from Engine-742 to the exposure home on side 'B' to check for extending fire. Defender Engine-751 obtained another water supply from a hydrant at Lloyd Street and North Union. Engine-751 proceeded to the rear of the home and staged on East Arlington Street. Engine-751 sent its crew through the yard with a hose-line to reach the rear of the fire building. The additional Shenandoah firefighters who arrived on scene entered the fire building and exposure homes to stop the spreading fire. Squirt-745 sent its crew to the roof of the fire building to do ventilation. West End Rescue993 staged one block away and sent its manpower to the scene to assist with RIT operations. The smoke condition in the exposure homes dissipated and the fire spread to the next door residences was stopped. Squirt-745 crews placed its ground ladders to the 'C' side of the structure to reach the roof. The fire chief ordered additional crews into the initial fire building to vent the structure. The rest of the responding units staged in the area and
sent their manpower to the fire scene. Frackville Ladder 43-20 staged in front of Squirt-745 and stood by for an assignment. The crew from Ladder 43-20 proceeded to the front of the structure to assist with overhaul. The fire conditions became under control in the fire building and firefighters moved into the overhaul mode. The walls and attic ceilings were opened up by the firefighters to look for hot Spots. The crews had the fire under control after one hour. The first-alarm firefighters were then released from the scene before 7:00 P.M. The State Police fire investigator, fire chief and fire marshals returned back to the scene the next day to investigate the cause of the fire. The fire chief reported that there were no injuries to firefighters or residents of the involved homes. The first-alarm fire destroyed one house and damaged two other row homes. Shenandoah and Mahanoy City EMS crews provided rehab services to the firefighters. The Red Cross Emergency Response Unit responded and assisted the firefighters and displaced residents. - STEPHEN BARRETT
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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Firefighters Respond to MVC with Car Under Tractor-Trailer in Antrim Twp. Antrim Twp., PA - On the afternoon of June 30th, emergency crews from Franklin County, PA and Washington County, MD were dispatched out on Box 3-81A at 12:14 P.M. for a vehicle accident on Interstate 81 in Antrim Township. Franklin County 911 had reports of JUMP TO FILE# an accident involv- 070417101 ing a tractor-trailer and a passenger vehicle with possible entrapment in the area of the 1 milemarker in the southbound lane of Interstate 81. Units from Greencastle and Maugansville responding on the call were advised by dispatch that they had multiple calls reporting a passenger car under a tractortrailer with possible entrapments. Greencastle’s Rescue Squad-3 was the first-in unit and confirmed the reports from dispatch. Personnel from Greencastle quickly assessed the scene and confirmed that they had one patient entrapped. Firefighters worked to stabilize the vehicle as Assistant Chief Dave Hann established Interstate 81 Command. The patient entrapped appeared to be in serious condition and Command immediately requested aviation started on the call. Firefighters were faced with an extensive extrication, a high heat index, and high humidity that afternoon. Command constantly reassessed the incident conditions and requested an additional Engine Company to respond with manpower to assist, along with an additional Basic Life Support Unit to handle rehab for the firefighters working the extrication. Extrication operations took over 40 minutes to free the trapped occupant from the wreckage. Command reported extrication operations complete at 1:04 P.M. Upon completion of extrication operations, care was turned over to EMS crews on the scene who worked to package both patients who were in the passenger car. The patient who was heavily entrapped was airlifted by Life Net-81 out of Hagerstown to the trauma center at York Hospital while the second patient was transported by ground with moderate injuries to Meritus Medical Center. The operator of the tractor-trailer appeared to be uninjured and refused EMS services on the scene. Once all patients were clear of the scene, crews began wrapping up operations and Command was terminated at 1:29 P.M. The accident tied up traffic on Interstate 81 for several hours. The passenger car involved was a Chrysler Concorde that was traveling south on Interstate 81 in the lefthand lane at the time of the accident. A tractor-trailer that was in the righthand lane made a lane
change, forcing the Chrysler to go off the side of the road into the median. The operator of the Chrysler overcorrected and traveled across the interstate, striking the back of the same tractor-trailer and becoming lodged underneath of the trailer. The accident investigation is currently being handled by the PA State Police. Emergency crews from Franklin and Washington Counties worked well together at the incident, showing great teamwork. Greencastle Rescue Hose Co.3 responded out, receiving assistance from Maugansville Fire Co.13, Longmeadow Fire Co.27, Waynesboro Medic-203 out of Greencastle, Community Rescue’s Paramedic 75-9 out of Maugansville, Community Rescue Assistant Chief Mackrell from Co.75, Life Net-81 stationed at Hagerstown Regional Airport and Franklin County area fire police. - WILLIAM KING
C.J. RINEHART
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
SCENES FROM HARRISBURG FIRE EXPO 2017 Photos by Todd Bender
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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What is the Root of the Problem? Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh
I am going to start off by stating that I am not an expert, nor do I play one on TV, but sometimes common sense just prevails and makes one think. There are many people today using many different substances for many different reasons. I remember growing up in a firehouse, where on Sunday mornings and many nights, the members would drink. Nobody really asked why. It was the culture. There was one person that had a bottle of brandy in his pocket. He said that it was to treat a toothache. Many people, society, use so many different substances these days. So many get hooked on opioids. Some get hooked after surgery. There are some people that get hooked after a surgery, then the insurance will not cover the prescriptions to cover it when they need to use it for pain. They tell me that it is cheaper to use street drugs. There is also another class of people that use substances. That class may be the people that you may stereotype, but many that you would never expect to be using substances.
When you get a chance to actually sit down and hear these peoples stories, you hear the other type of pain. You hear the trauma that they have lived with, the depression, the crisis, the "untreated" behavioral/mental health issues. They express that they feel the pain and use the substances to self-medicate. The question that comes about is why don't they get the help that they need to handle the behavioral health issues? Is it stigma? Is it insurance? Is it that they were told that they are not supposed to discuss their problems with anyone? What challenges are members of your department facing that may be causing them to self medicate? Do they know where to reach out? Do they know that there are locations that rehab and detox emergency services? Brothers want to help brothers/sisters. We are one family. We, ourselves, need to get to the root of why we really do a certain action. People avoid certain people or places because it brings up pain or bad memories. For others, the pain may be too great. If you know someone who may have a substance abuse problem, including alcohol, please say something and help them get the help that they need. There are many treatment facilities out there. Stay safe, Didymus McHugh
ANTHONY MICCICKE
Underground Electrical Vault Explodes Reading, PA - On Saturday evening, July 1st, fire units were dispatched to the 800 block of Walnut Street for smoke coming from a street light. Firefighters arrived in the block and began investigating when an underground explosion occurred, hurdling a manhole cover several feet into the air. An evacuation of the immediate area was conducted on the orders of Chief Banks (C5). Engine-1 took a hydrant near Cedar St. in preparation of fire extension. Firefighters from Tower-1 began metering properties near the vault, finding elevated levels of carbon monoxide. Rescue-1 was requested to the scene for additional atmospheric monitors. Met-Ed arrived later and began isolating the power to repair the issue. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours afterwards assisting them. No injuries were reported.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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Your Personal Size-Up STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
Most of us are familiar with the term “size-up," including what it is and how it aids in analyzing and bringing to termination a safe and effective emergency response. Coupled with any pre-plans and SOP’s, it enables one to readily plan strategies and carry out tactics in order to accomplish specific goals in a safe manner. The goals may include rescue, confinement, extinguishments, extrications, hazmat mitigation, medical intervention and transport, and whatever type of emergency to which we have responded. Included in our sizeup are Scene Safety and Risk Evaluation, primary concerns of
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the Incident Commander and Company Officers. What about you, do you leave size-up to the IC and officers? You shouldn’t, you should be just as diligent in doing your own personal size-up as your officers are in doing their overall size-up. Just maybe you will spot and report on something that may have been missed or has changed. Remember, the scene of most emergencies is dynamic and complicated with change, especially in the early stages. Many heads work better than one! More importantly, your own size-up doesn’t have to be as broad based as the IC’s, but it is just as important to your safety and the safety of other firefighters, as well as EMS personnel on scene. Your personal size-up should be carried out each time you respond to an emergency. The brief time it takes to engage one's personal computer and visual recording equipment, our brain and eyes; much information can be garnered that will improve one's personal safety and help keep you out of harms way. The brain, upon receipt of the alarm, begins to process all of the information that it has stored on the specific location and/or type of incident. Included also will be “real time” information, such as time of day, day of week, weather conditions, response route, traffic conditions and any known response hazards. All should be taken into account and adjustments should be made in order to complete a safe response to the incident scene. Once on scene, the eyes should scan the entire area, taking in the “Big Picture;" now is not the time for tunnel vision. (In the emergency service business, there is never time for “Tunnel Vision”.) If it is a fire situation, where does the fire appear to be located? What floor, or area is it in? Are there alternate escape routes for you, such as fire escapes, porches, adjoining buildings or roofs, should you need them for a hasty exit. What way is the wind blowing? No, you don’t have to wet a finger or throw grass in the air; just look at the travel direction of the smoke. Wind direction is important, as it will push smoke, flames and heat. If ordered to ventilate, you want the wind at your back and to be working back into the wind in order to safely complete your assignment. If the fire is in a private residence, what type of house is it? Ranch, split or high ranch, salt box, modern contemporary, Cape Cod, or Queen Anne? Once you decide on the style of the house, the layout for that style house will almost always be the same, one that you will be familiar with. You know a lot about the layout of the various styles of houses if you take a second or two to recall the common layouts. Most houses are divided into two sections, living quarters and sleeping quarters. If it's 3:00 A.M. in the morning and search and rescue has to be completed, the bed-
JASON BATZ
House Fire Quickly Contained in Reading
Reading, PA - Shortly before noon on Moday, July 3rd, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a call reporting smoke showing at a home on Birch Street. A box alarm was transmitted, sending units to 521 Birch Street. Tower-1 arrived at a two-and-a-half story MOR with smoke showing from the roof. Firefighters entered the dwelling and found smoke on the top floor with a fire smoldering in an attic closet space. A line was stretched to the third-floor while other crews preformed a search. The fire was quickly contained with ladder crews overhauling the exterior and roof. All searches were clear, with no injuries reported. Chief Mogel (C2) was in command.
rooms should be the most likely area to begin the search. Therefore, knowing where the bedrooms are improves chances for a successful search and save, while increasing one's own personal safety. If conditions deteriorate and you have to make a speedy retreat or bailout, it is comforting to know there is a deck, porch, garage roof, or other readily accessible safe escape routes just outside this window or that door; something you may not have known if you hadn’t done a personal size-up. Your on scene size-up should include being alert for any changes in the immediate area where you are operating. Are fire conditions changing, such as color and intensity of smoke, flames, heat? Is there fire in an area where there was no fire upon arrival? Are the changes for the better, or for the worse? Have there been any changes structurally in the area where you are operating, such as sudden cracks in walls appearing, or partial ceiling, wall or other form of interior collapse? Any of the aforementioned will require immediate notification to the IC and reevaluation by you or your immediate officer as to whether to withdraw or relocate to a safe position. Remember, the fire is dynamic; what was may not be any longer, therefore there is a constant need for size-up, caution and staying alert to the situation. When in doubt, get out! To be continued...
BOB DEVONSHIRE
Candle Causes House Fire in Bart Township Bart Twp., PA - A candle caused a fire in the second-floor bedroom of a farmhouse in the 5500 block of White Oak Rd. in Bart Township at 9:00 P.M. on June 25th. Bart Township firefighters were in station preparing for Monday night's upcoming benefit auction for John "Whitey" Whiteside when they heard the pre-alert for the fire. They made a quick response and were able to knock down the fire shortly after. Crews from several neighboring stations responded to the scene and assisted with ventilation and overhaul. Firefighters cleared the scene after about one hour.
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TODD BENDER
‘Pretty in Pink’ Cancer Awareness in Harrisburg Harrisburg, PA - 10-year-old Elena Aquino was manning the booth in front of a pink 1977 American LaFrance engine at Harrisburg Fire Expo 2017 and did a great job. Working with her 13-year-old brother Eric and their mom, Rosalinda, the young lady was very articulate in explaining that the trio is helping to raise money to assist women who have been battling cancer, and their families. 1st Responder staffers Lindsey and Nicole were more than willing to join Elena for a photo.
BOB DEVONSHIRE
Basement Fire in Bart Township
Bart Twp., PA - A basement fire struck a home on Lamparter Rd. in Bart Township Saturday evening, May 27th at 5:48 P.M. Firefighters from Bart Township Fire Company arrived to find smoke on the first-floor of a rancher style home. Crews from Engine 51-2 advanced a line in the front door and made their way to the basement to find extensive damage. A second line was advanced to the basement doors on the back side of the house. Members of the family were not home at the time the fire broke out. Several pets were unfortunately killed in the blaze. Firefighters determined an electrical issue to be the cause of the fire. Crews were on scene for about two hours. Assisting the Bart Township Fire Company were Quarryville Fire Co., Gap Fire Co., Christiana Fire Co. and Lancaster EMS.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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Vehicle News
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Star Hose Company of Port Allegany has placed a Carlisle Fire & Rescue is placing into service a 2017 new rescue into service. The 2016 Pierce Arrow XT runs Pierce Enforcer as Rescue 45. It replaces a 2006 KME. as Rescue 38 and replaces a 1986 GMC/Ranger 1991 JBRes-Q unit that was purchased from Blue Ridge Mountain in Franklin County.
The Coudersport Volunteer Fire Dept. recently placed Rescue 48 in service with a 2014 Spartan/2017 EVI unit. It replaces a 1992 International 4700/JB-Res-Q rig that was purchased from McDonald in Allegheny County, and recently sold to Eldred Twp. of McKean County.
FRANK ROBINSON
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
FRANK ROBINSON
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Perry Hi-Way Hose Co. now operates this 2017 Spar- Mifflintown Hose Co. of Juniata County recently placed King of Prussia Fire Company operates this 2017 E-One tan/Rescue1 Heavy Rescue. new Engine 22 into service. It is a 2014 Pierce Enforcer Typhoon 1500/750. 1500/750 that was a demo unit.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
BUDDY SHOTS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Reading firefighters pose after a job with Mike Harcarik (center kneeling). Mike recently accepted a position with the Newark Fire Department in New Jersey. PATRICK GRIFFIN
BRIAN DENHAM
Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from sides 'Bravo' and 'Charlie' of the home in Guildford Twp.
Guilford Township Mobile Home Fire Reported to be Arson
Larimer VFD firefighters pose for a photo after responding to a garbage truck fire. (L to R): Lt. Thomas Harrison, FF Tyler Hammock, FF Patrick Mills and FF Nick Hursh. PROVIDED
D ID YOU K NOW
?
According to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, men make up roughly 70 percent of the occupation. Statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services place the ratio at 65 percent male and 35 percent female.
Guilford Twp., PA - On the evening of June 3rd, the New Franklin Fire Company was dispatched out for a house fire in Guilford Township. Several Fire and EMS companies due on Box 17-3 were dispatched on the assignment at 8:47 P.M. to 2924 County Road. JUMP TO FILE# F r a n k l i n 061017108 County 911 received several calls reporting the fire at the residence. New Franklin Engine 172, with Chief Ralph Yeager on board, was the first unit to markup on the call directly after dispatch that night. Franklin County advised Chief Yeager of the multiple calls they were receiving reporting working fire conditions. Within minutes of their response, Engine 17-2 arrived to find a single wide mobile home with heavy fire conditions on the 'Bravo' and 'Charlie' sides of the structure. Chief Yeager reported their conditions to Franklin County Dispatch and established Country Road Command. Engine 17-2 took up position on side 'Alpha' as Franklin Station-4’s Engine 43 supplied them with water. Firefighters from New Franklin Engine 17-2 and Franklin Engine 4-3 worked to pull two attack lines to attack the fire. Firefighters were able to make entry and begin their fire attack as Chambersburg firefighters worked to establish a water supply fill site for incoming tankers. Firefighters battling the blaze found a working fire in the back bedroom of the mobile home. All occupants were out of the mobile home upon fire departments' arrival. Firefighters were able to
gain quick control of the fire, knocking down the blaze within minutes of their arrival on the scene. Command reported the fire knocked down at 9:00 P.M. Firefighters were committed for several hours after the blaze that night. There were several children and one adult inside the mobile home at the time of the fire. One of the children ran outside and told a man that there was a fire inside the home. The man entered the home and got the remaining children out without injury before re-entering the home to help evacuate the female who was inside the room where the fire was, located in the back of the mobile home. The female occupant had to be forcibly removed from the home by the man. Firefighters were committed on the scene for over two hours assisting PA State Police Fire Marshals who were on the scene
working their investigation into what caused the fire. The investigation into the cause led to the arrest of Cherith Yoder of Chambersburg, who was the female who had to be forcibly removed from the home. She was arrested and charged with Arson, Criminal Mischief and Reckless Endangerment. The home sustained heavy damage and has been deemed a total loss by PA State Police. Over 35 emergency responders were on the call in Guilford Township that night. New Franklin Fire Co.17 responded on Box 17-3, receiving assistance from Franklin Station-4, Chambersburg Fire Co.1, Marion Fire Co.8, Fayetteville Fire Co.7, Mont Alto Fire & EMS Co.5, Greencastle Rescue Hose Co.3 and Franklin County Air-10. - WILLIAM KING
DENNY CLOPPER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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PATCH OF THE MONTH
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANKLIN FIRE COMPANY @FRANKLINFIRECOMPANY
Crews arrived to find heavy fire showing in Guildford Township.
Two-Alarm Fire Contained to One Townhouse in Chambersburg Chambers burg, PA - On the afternoon of June 3rd, Chambersburg Fire Department was alerted with several other departments for a structure fire at 316 Lantern Lane. Franklin County 911 took several calls reporting the back of a townhouse on fire. Emergency crews due on Box JUMP TO FILE# 1-02 were dis- 061017109 patched out on the assignment at 4:55 P.M. Deputy Chief Norm Reitz of Chambersburg Fire marked up on the call directly after dispatch and was advised by Franklin County of the numerous reports being received as Chambersburg Engine 1-4 approached the scene with smoke showing. Chambersburg Engine 1-4 was the first-in to confirm the working fire, reporting that they had a three-story townhouse on the end of the row, with heavy smoke showing from the roof on side 'Alpha' of the structure. Captain Tim Ebersole arrived on the scene and established Lantern Lane Command and requested the Working Fire Dispatch to be started. Firefighters quickly pulled an attack line and made entry to commence fire attack, as other firefighters worked to check the building for any victims. Deputy Chief Reitz arrived on the scene as crews were beginning their attack, assumed Command and appointed Captain Ebersole as Safety. Firefighters were able to quickly conduct their primary search with nothing found, as firefighters worked on Division II to access and battle the fire that had spread into the attic space of the home. Franklin Truck-42 worked to establish their position on the 'Alpha/Delta' corner in case needed, as firefighters
worked on Division II. Deputy Chief Reitz assessed the deteriorating conditions and requested a second-alarm to be struck to assist on the blaze. Firefighters battled the blaze on Lantern Lane for nearly 30 minutes before gaining control of the flames. Division II reported that they had a bulk of the fire knocked by 5:27 P.M., but still had residual fire they couldn’t get to. Firefighters had to utilize aerial operations to assist with fire suppression to reach portions of the burning roof due to the stability of the floor in the attic area of the home. Command was able to report the fire under control by 5:50 P.M. that evening. Crews remained committed on the scene for several hours conducting overhaul operations and checking the residence for any further extension issues. Command reported fire department operations complete at 7:44 P.M., at which time Command was terminated. All fire department units were clear of the scene by 8:27 P.M. that night. The blaze appeared to have started on the back porch of the home. The fire quickly spread up the side of the structure and into the attic, engulfing the roof of the townhouse. Firefighters were able
to keep the fire contained to the involved townhouse, preventing it from spreading into the adjoining townhouses. The family was displaced by the fire and referred to the local American Red Cross for assistance. Damages to the home were estimated to be around $75,000 between the damage to the structure and its contents. The cause of the blaze has not yet been released and is currently under investigation by the homeowner’s insurance company. Chambersburg Fire Department responded out with units from McKinley Street Station and Headquarters Station on North Second Street, receiving assistance from New Franklin Fire Co.17, Letterkenny Fire Co.13, Franklin Station-4, Marion Fire & EMS Co.8, Holy Spirit EMS Co.100, Cumberland County’s Cumberland Valley Co.53, Fayetteville Fire & EMS Co.7, St. Thomas Fire & EMS Co.18, Pleasant Hall Fire & EMS Co.11, West End Fire Co.15, and Adams County’s Arendtsville Fire Co.5 who was transferred into Waynesboro Fire Co.2. - WILLIAM KING
FRANKLIN FIRE COMPANY @FRANKLINFIRECOMPANY
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Bloomsburg FD, located in Columbia County, PA.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
A Picture is NOT Worth a Thousand Words by Chief Joel Miller
There’s an old saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” How many times have you heard that before? By definition, this refers to the notion that a complex idea can be conveyed with just a single still image. This implies that a picture can tell a complete story. But in the fire service, a picture only tells about a hundred words, give or take, and we are left to fill in the other nine hundred words to complete the story. In today’s social media driven world, there are a lot of “Arm Chair Safety Officers” and critics that love to point out the negative. This is where we must provide the “nine hundred words” to complete the story behind the picture. Of course, I don’t mean it literally, however, make your explanations matter. I’m not saying that pointing out the negative is a terrible thing, because we can all learn from constructive criticism and use it as a learning tool if we allow. As owner of the largest fire Instagram page (@chief_miller), I post several photographs from around the world each day. I have come to realize that people do not always tell the story behind the pictures they post, leaving others to sometimes think the worst. For example, I posted an amazing picture of a firefighter exiting a structure fire and his air line was not connected to his mask. What everyone, myself included, didn’t know was that this firefighter had run out of air while inside the structure and barely made it out alive. Once the story was revealed as to why the firefighter’s mask was not connected, it completely changed everyone’s perspective, therefore, the picture was viewed in a brand new light.
Social media can be the fire service’s best friend and help advance a fire department in many positive ways, however, we must be willing to invest a little time into telling the complete story. We must tell the story in a way to help others understand what was truly happening, as well as how and even why these events occurred. These pictures with complete stories can serve as learning opportunities. While I agree that not all safety rules will always be observed, I also understand that sometimes a simple explanation as to why a situation was handled a certain way can go a long way in making a picture worth a thousand words. This can help present your department in an honorable way. On the flip side, we can’t give a 900-word explanation either. Too much is just that- “too much.” In reality, most people will never read beyond two short sentences when viewing a picture or video on social media, so make your words count. Here are just a few simple rules to follow when posting to your departments social media page or your own social media page to help your picture tell a complete story. 1. Follow your department’s SOP or SOG regarding social media. 2. Convey the complete story in just a couple of short sentences. 3. Never post pictures that will reflect negatively on your department or other departments. You can easily advance your department in the social media world and beyond. The choice is yours, so make it a good one and make all your pictures worth a thousand words! Stay safe, Chief Miller
APPARATUS FOR SALE
PL Custom Stock Units Available for Immediate Delivery PL Custom has a number of stock ambulances available for immediate delivery. We have Type I ambulances on Ford F450 and Dodge 4500 4x4 chassis and Type III ambulances on Ford E450 chassis. We participate in the H-GAC co-op purchasing program. For more information, find your local dealer at www.plcustom.com or email us at info@plcustom.com.
CURTIS E. BRYAN
Firefighters from Franklin Co. 4 and Fayetteville Fire & EMS Co.7 work together to extricate the driver from a vehicle accident on Black Gap Road in Greene Twp.
Garbage Truck Driver Flown to York Hospital After Vehicle Rollover Greene, PA - On the afternoon of July 7th, Franklin County 911 received calls reporting a large commercial vehicle off the roadway in the 3700 block of Black Gap Road in Greene Township. Emergency crews from Fayetteville Fire & EMS and Franklin’s Squad-41 were dispatched out for a garbage truck overturned at 2:05 P.M. on Box 7-2. Fayetteville’s Deputy Chief Brady Bumbaugh marked up on Engine 7-1 and was advised by dispatch that they had reports of a garbage truck that had rolled over multiple times, and the driver of the truck appeared to be unresponsive, still in the vehicle. Franklin Fire Deputy Chief Steve Himes was the first unit to arrive on the scene on Black Gap Road, in the area of Byers Road. DC Himes confirmed that he had a garbage truck rolled over off the road into a ditch, with one possible entrapment. DC Himes worked to assess the incident as units were responding in to assist. DC Himes reported to Deputy Chief Bumbaugh
JUMP TO FILE #071217109 that they had one patient confined and requested Air Medical to be started. DC Bumbaugh relayed the request for aviation to Franklin County Dispatch as he approached the scene and established Command 7. Firefighters from Fayetteville and Franklin Fire worked together to rapidly extricate the patient from the garbage truck that had veered down an embankment off the road. DC Himes handled rescue operations and the patient was able to be removed from the vehicle within 15 minutes of crews' arrival on the scene. EMS personnel on Fayetteville Medic 7-6 were working to fully assess the patient as Life Net 8-1 landed in a field adjacent to the incident. The patient was quickly packaged by crews and patient care was turned over to Life Net Paramedics, who quickly loaded the patient into the aircraft and lifted off
at 2:43 P.M., en route to York Hospital. Emergency crews showed great teamwork that afternoon on Black Gap Road. Once rescue operations were complete, Command was terminated and Fire and EMS units on the call wrapped up. The road remained partially closed while PA State Police worked to begin the investigation into what caused the accident with traffic control assistance from Franklin County Fire Police. The driver of the truck was last known to be in serious condition. The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Franklin County emergency crews responding on Box 7-2 that afternoon were Fayetteville Fire & EMS Co.7, Franklin Fire Co. 4 and Air Methods Life Net 8-1 out of Hagerstown Regional Airport. Crews received additional assistance on the scene from Franklin County Area Fire Police and PA State Police, who are handling the investigation. - WILLIAM KING
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
RON JEFFERS
Catasauqua Truck 231 is a well maintained 1991 LTI Olympian model, 106-foot rear mount aerial ladder, still serving the community. The company was operating at a fire in Whitehall on May 20th. TERRY RITZ
Working Dwelling Fire in Hereford Twp. Goes to Second-Alarm DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Patrol 39-4 of the Shinglehouse Fire Company in Potter County is this 1986 Chevrolet with pp/200, supplied from the state's forestry department.
NICK HURSH
Larimer Volunteer Fire Department is located in North Huntingdon Twp. and still operates this 1982 Mack Tanker that holds 3,300 gallons of water, with a 1500-GPM.
KEN SNYDER
The Excelsior Hose Co. of Olyphant maintains this 1985 AM General 200/2500.
Hereford Twp.( Siesholtzville), PA - On Friday, June 9th at 5:17 A.M., two fire companies from Hereford Twp. (Berks Co.) were dispatched to a working dwelling fire in the center of the village on Siesholtzville Rd., near Hunter Forge Road. Upon arrival, they had heavy flames coming out of the center portion of the dwelling. The OIC called Berks County Dispatch for a second-
JUMP TO FILE #061217113 alarm for tankers and manpower. The fire was in the addition that was added onto the original dwelling. There were no injuries reported to the occupants or to the firemen. This portion of the dwelling was a total loss. The cause and dollar value is unknown, pending the outcome of
Bob Long
the investigation. PA State Police are conducting the investigation, along with the Fire Marshals. Assisting the two township fire companies were East Greenville, Pennsburg, Eastern Berks, Alburtis, Lyons, Topton and Upper Milford Fire Companies, as well as fire police from numerous fire companies and Bally EMS. - TERRY RITZ
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Brotherhood Above Everything Else HEALTH & FITNESS
by Robert “Pip” Piparo
"Brotherhood doesn’t mean turnout coats, kilts and t-shirts. Brotherhood is men and women sweating and suffering together: whether on the drill ground, the fire ground, or in the gym. It means 'I’m going to do whatever I can to be the best for them, for my crew, and for myself.' It means no longer tolerating incompetence in tactics, skills or physical ability." -James Keegan, Cherry Hill Fire Department Firefighter James Keegan of Cherry Hill Fire Department sent me this quote after the 2017 Fire Department Instructor's Conference in Indianapolis, IN. Jimmy just finished competing in the 'Firefighter Throwdown' and this was his biggest take away from his time spent there. Of course, I totally agree with his sentiment but recently, I was able experience it first-hand at an event that just so happened to have been held at Jimmy’s department. Thousands upon thousands of firefighters, police officers, soldiers, athletes, first responders and civilians from all across America participated in the ‘Memorial Day Murph’ workout over Memorial Day weekend. This workout was created to honor Lt. Michael Murphy, who was killed in action on June 8, 2005. His life was memorialized in the movie “Lone Survivor”. The workout consists of a 1-mile run followed by 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats and another 1-mile run, all while wearing a 20-lb. weight vest. This workout can be scaled for all abilities, however it’s meant to be a challenge. It’s meant to push you to a new level. Lieutenant Murphy did this workout weekly in preparation to become a Navy Seal. We honor him and all other service members who made the ultimate sacrifice by participating in this workout and pushing ourselves to new physical limits. I’ve participated in ‘Murph’ for several years, but this year was dif-
ferent. I was invited to participate with the members of the Cherry Hill Fire Department at one of their stations. They are an official ‘Murph’ location each year. I’ve worked out there before, but I’d never experienced anything like this. There were about 30 of us total, including firefighters, police officers and family members, most of whom I had never met before until that day. But none of that mattered, because we were all there for one reason; to honor the fallen. Hanging on the whiteboard in the station where the workout was written, also hung pictures of New Jersey service members who were killed in action in various wars. Before we started the workout, names of the fallen were read aloud. Their names stuck with me on that first mile and through several rounds of the workout. During the workout, I looked around a lot, watching everyone work through their rounds. I couldn’t help but think how amazing this was. I was at a firehouse, in New Jersey, doing one of the most grueling, yet meaningful workouts possible. I also thought about Jimmy’s quote and just how true it felt in this moment. We throw the word “brother” around in the fire service daily. Brotherhood is written everywhere, but do we truly understand and embody its meaning? It’s a topic I never thought physical fitness would lead me to ponder. But it did, and participating in ‘Murph,' alongside so many other emergency responders, really made its meaning clear to me. It's way more than wearing a uniform, or putting a sticker on your car. Just showing up doesn’t cut it anymore. The job that we signed up for is killing us. We are losing too many firefighters to health related issues to keep denying that fact anymore. A cultural change needs to occur, and it needs to occur now. I’m sure that by this point most people are saying, “there’s no way I can finish ‘Murph'.’” Guess what? Chances are you’re right! Actually, no one should just attempt a workout like 'Murph' straight off the couch. Just like no one should run into a structure fire without months of training. This is where the cultural shift needs to occur. Our culture
needs to adopt physical fitness as part of our daily routine. Just like checking the truck or making the beds. We need to take care of the most important piece of equipment we have: our body. It won’t be easy, I’m not saying it is. But what about our job is easy? Our mission is to protect lives and property. We owe it to ourselves, to the citizens we serve and to those we serve with to start putting more effort into our physical fitness. ‘Murph’ will take place next year, on Memorial Day weekend, at locations around the country. I challenge you to start training now, to make completing this workout your goal. You have just under one year to physically and mentally prepare yourself for this challenge. I very rarely make guarantees in the fitness world, but this is one I’m willing to put down in writing. Whatever your current physical state is today, if you put forth the work, you will be ready one year from today to tackle this beast of a workout. During your prep year you will not only be helping yourself, but also those you're training with. Your sense of pride and brotherhood will increase, as I’ve seen with firefighters worldwide. The goal is to complete this workout, but you should set smaller goals along the way. Before long, your regimen will become routine. As you adopt this new fitness lifestyle, start to note how you feel overall. Start to note how your commitment to the fire service grows. When you take the time and put work back into yourself, you start to realize just how good you really do feel. Having your “brothers” and “sisters” doing it alongside you is just icing on the cake. It’s time to reverse the negative trend that is plaguing our services and bring pride back. Pride in ourselves, pride in our company, pride in our departments and pride in our services. As always, should you have any questions, feel free to email me at pip@555fitness.com. Also, feel free to share your stories of transformation along the way. You never know who you may inspire tomorrow from the work you are putting in today!
LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Little Big Guys” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON
Edgmont Fire Company now owns this 2017 Dodge/Marco 250/350 as Tac64.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Potter County's Shinglehouse Fire Company operates a 1991 Ford F-350/Saulsbury engine. This little guy has a 750 pump and 200 water, and operates as Engine 39-3. It is very capable of handling very tight, long driveways and rough terrain to get to a fire that needs some bigger punch.
APPARATUS FOR SALE
The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Uniondale Fire District will accept sealed Bids until 2:00 pm, June 19, 2017, for the sale of one (1) Red 2005 International Ambulance. Add’l detailed info can be obtained. At 3pm, June 19, 2017, bid(s) will be opened and publicly read aloud. Vehicle is to be sold “as is”. The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is $35,000 w/ firematic pkg. Sealed bid(s) may be delivered in person to District Office M-F 9:00a-5:00p at 501 Uniondale Ave., 2nd Floor, Uniondale, NY 11553. Sealed bid(s) must be marked “Bid for 2005 International Ambulance”. Sealed bid(s) must be accompanied with a check in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid price submitted or the bid will not be accepted. Contact District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 8:30a-5:00p M-F. The final sale payment is to be by certified or bank check. The Uniondale Fire District reserves the right to reject any and all bids. ASHE HUSEIN, OBSESSED WITH LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Thank You for your Continued Support to our Fallen Firefighters! With your Help We Have Donated $5300.00 to Date
August, 2017
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DEPARTMENT PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Adams County Company 33 operates three stations from three different communities under one department. On June 20, 2009 the New Oxford Community Fire Company, Company 13 and the Abbottstown Fire Company, Company 12, merged to form the United Hook & Ladder Company 33. The two boroughs are only a couple miles apart, so the merger was very practical for maximizing manpower, fundraising and resources. As of January 1, 2016, the Bonneauville Community Fire Company, Company 19, joined United Hook & Ladder, becoming Station 33-3. They sold off the rescue en-
JUMP TO FILE #062217121 gine that was in the Bonneauville station, as it was a duplication of the rescue at headquarters, and the pumper-tanker at the Bonneauville station could handle the engine functions needed at the station. This station still maintains it's brush and utility trucks, and all vehicles are still in the lime green and white paint schemes of the old company. - DARIN SMITH
CURTIS BRYAN
Barn in St. Thomas Township Destroyed by Early Morning Blaze
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
United Hook & Ladder Station 33-1, New Oxford, previously the New Oxford Community Fire Company Station 13.
United Hook & Ladder Station 33-2, Abbottstown, previously the Abbottstown Fire Company Station 12.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
United Hook & Ladder Station 33-3, Bonneauville, previously the Bonneauville Community Fire Company Station 19.
St. Thomas Twp., PA - On the morning of June 15th, units from four different counties responded to a barn fire in St. Thomas Township. Franklin County 911 alerted multiple departments between JUMP TO FILE# Franklin and Fulton 062017112 Counties at 5:35 A.M. Thursday morning on Box 189 to respond to 1873 Pioneer Drive in St. Thomas Township. Franklin County received multiple calls reporting the early morning blaze. As units approached the scene, heavy smoke could be seen from several miles out. St. Thomas Fire’s Deputy Chief Adam McNew was responding that morning and quickly requested the Working Fire Dispatch started on the assignment, along with a Tanker Task Force. St. Thomas Engine 18-2 was the first-in unit to find the barn well off. Firefighters deployed two attack lines to battle the blaze and protect surrounding exposures, as Deputy Chief McNew arrived on the scene and established Pioneer Drive Command. Crews were faced with heavy fire conditions upon their arrival that morning. Firefighters had a 36’x70’ two-story, wood-frame storage barn, with heavy fire conditions on Divisions I and II of the structure. Firefighters worked to keep the fire contained as incoming crews worked to establish a good water supply by dropping a 1100’ supply line back the lane to the barn from the dump tanks along the road as Franklin's Truck42 took up position for roof operations to ventilate the barn. Firefighters worked battling the blaze for nearly an hour before gaining control. Command reported the fire under control at 6:36 A.M. that morning. Firefighters continued to work the scene an ad-
ditional two hours, conducting overhaul operations. Crews had a majority of their operations wrapped up by 8:30 A.M., at which time Command began releasing some of the units on the call. Firefighters remained on the scene for several hours that morning assisting Pennsylvania State Fire Marshals as they began their investigation into the incident. The barn that was lost was used for storage of farming equipment and tools, as well as a workshop. No livestock was lost during the incident. All emergency crews were able to clear the scene by 11:00 A.M. that morning. One firefighter sustained minor injuries during overhaul operations and was treated on the scene. The cause of the blaze is still undetermined and currently under investigation. Over 40 emergency personnel from multiple departments responded to the early morning blaze. St. Thomas Fire & EMS Co.18 responded on the call, receiving assistance from Franklin County units from Mercersburg M.M.P.W. Fire & EMS Co.9, Franklin Station-4, Chambersburg Fire & EMS Co.1, Greencastle Rescue Hose Co.3,
Metal Twp. Fire & Ambulance Co.21, Marion Fire Co.8, Mont Alto Fire Co.5, Fannett-Metal Fire & EMS Co.12, West End Fire Co.15, Waynesboro Fire Co.2, Pleasant Hall Fire Co.11, Holy Spirit EMS Co.100, and Franklin County Air10. Additional units responded in from Fulton County’s McConnellsburg Fire Co.56, Hustontown Fire Co.57, Cumberland County Vigilant Hose Co.52, Washington County, MD’s Maugansville Fire Co.13 and Leitersburg Fire Co.9, and Morgan County, WV’s Berkeley Springs Fire Co.1. Crews from Pleasant Hall and Berkeley Springs, WV initially responded to assist with transfer assignments before being called to the scene to assist with overhaul operations. Additional units from Adams County’s Arendtsville Co.5, Cumberland County’s South Newton Twp. Vol. Fire Co.49 and Washington County, MD’s First Hagerstown Hose Company Engine-1 also responded to the request to transfer units in to cover the area while crews were committed on the scene. - WILLIAM KING
CURTIS BRYAN
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
August, 2017
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FACES OF PENNSYLVANIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES August, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
To see your “Faces” in the newspaper, upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
SHANE SHIFFLETT
Franklin County, PA - Firefighter Shane Shifflett awaits the engine company after rolling up on a vehicle fire.
JASON BATZ
Reading, PA - Reading FD recruit Brad Shanaman poses next to his creation after charging a supply-bed.
CURTIS BRYAN
St. Thomas Twp., PA - Deputy Chief McNew runs command from the officer seat of Engine 18-2 on a working barn fire.
CHUCK ZADROGA
JASON BATZ
Reading, PA - Reading FD Lieutenant Mike Glore poses with a $100 bill he received during a Muscular Dystrophy Boot Drive.
Reading, PA - Reading Firefighters Jason Batz, Dan Wade and Jim Deck pose with Western Berks EMT Megan Elizabeth.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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Tell Me Exactly What Happened ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
Tell Me Exactly What Happened Dispatches From 911 By Caroline Burau Available from: Anywhere books are sold Price: $16.95 The book is softcover, measuring 5 ½ inches by 8 ½ inches and has 182 pages within 31 chapters. As you can see, the chapters are fairly short. These are memoirs of the author who worked in two different dispatch jobs. One was a 911 operator for the White Bear Lake, Minnesota Police Department. The center also covers the township, which combined, has a population of 35,000. It is a suburb of the twin cities. The 911 desk has a single operator, so you can imagine the demand and restrictions placed on that one person, right down to getting a chance to perform human bodily functions. She eventually leaves this job to work as an EMD (Emergency Medical Dispatcher) for a private ambulance company so diversified that it even has air ambulances! One thing you will realize is that dispatchers can and do save lives from their desks by coaching callers about the proper things to do while help is on the way, and by calling the appropri-
ate agencies to handle the situations. You’ll also realize that they do get emotionally and personally involved with the outcome of the calls, especially when life is at stake, because with very few exceptions, they never leave their positions no matter how serious an incident gets. The exceptions are dispatch centers manned by emergency personnel who would have to leave their posts and call forward to the police for instance, because they have to respond in an emergency vehicle at a busy time. The chapters will hold your attention. Not all are about calls. Some involve work conditions with respect to time off, seniority, personalities, private space, fatigue and many other aspects of the job. Dispatchers reading this book will relate accordingly with respect to their own work environment and the ever present hierarchy. Personal life comes into play as well because her husband is also a dispatcher and they have a school-aged daughter. The chapters are peppered with slang, locker room talk, humor and other things that go on amongst themselves, never of course on the air or on the phone. The reader will be amazed about how many diversified emergencies happen in the jurisdiction. I believe this book will help educate readers about the highs and lows of the job and about how versatile dispatchers can be, helping them to respect these workers. She is also the author of “Answering 911, Life in the Hot Seat".
SOUTH CENTRAL PA FIRST ALERT POST
Northbound Route 15 was closed after a fatal accident in Cumberland Township.
Fatal Accident Shuts Down Route 15 in Cumberland Township Cumberland Twp., PA - On the evening of May 30th, Adams County emergency crews were dispatched out for an auto accident in Cumberland Township. Adams County 911 had reports of a vehicle rollover with entrapment in the area of the 4.2 mile marker of U.S. Route 15 in the northbound lane. Units due on Box 23-6 were dispatched on the assignment at 8:28 P.M. Greenmount Community Fire Chief John Javor marked up, responding on the call directly after dispatch. Adams County advised Chief Javor that they had reports that a single vehicle was traveling around 100 M.P.H., per one of their callers, when it lost control and rolled multiple times. With those reports, Chief Javor requested for dispatch to check on the availability of aviation in case needed. Chief Javor was the first unit to arrive and found a Honda Odyssey off the roadway in the median with heavy damage. Chief Javor quickly assessed the scene,
JUMP TO FILE #060817110 reporting that he had a single-vehicle accident with one patient heavily entrapped, possibly a Class-4 (deceased) patient. Chief Javor established Route 15 Command and requested Rescue Squad-6 out of Frederick County, MD to assist. Firefighters worked to quickly stabilize the vehicle and begin extrication operations. Command advised dispatch that crews were looking at an extensive extrication time due to the amount of damage done to the vehicle. Firefighters were able to make access to the patient, who was confirmed to be a Class-4 patient. Crews were committed on the scene for several hours waiting for the Adams County Coroner to arrive to complete extrication operations. Firefighters were able to complete extrication operations just before midnight that night. Upon completion of extrica-
tion operations, Command reported that fire department operations were complete and a majority of units on the call were able to wrap up their operations and clear the scene. Northbound Route 15 remained closed into the early morning hours the next day as Cumberland Township Police worked to investigate the incident. The Honda had left the roadway at a high rate of speed, striking the cement pillar at the Barlow-Greenmount Road overpass. The County Coroner confirmed that the driver was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple blunt force injuries. Nearly 20 Fire and EMS personnel responded out to the accident from Adams County, PA and Frederick County, MD. Units on the call responded out from Greenmount Community Fire Co.23, Barlow Volunteer Fire Co.22, Adams Regional EMS Co.54 and Frederick County, MD’s Emmitsburg Volunteer Fire Co.6. - WILLIAM KING
NIK KNAUER
Reading Firefighter Retires
Congratulations to Firefighter Quentin "Q" Englehart on nearly 25 years of service to the City of Reading. Quentin began his career on July 6, 1992. After completing the academy, FF Englehart was assigned to the "C" platoon. "Q" moved to Engine-11 on C-platoon in August of 1994. He would remain with the company until transferring to Engine-9 on the A-platoon in April of 1995. Quentin would work Engine-9 for most of his career before crossing the floor to Ladder-3 in 2011. Quentin's plans include a move to Maine, where he plans on living near the coast and fixing up an old house.
SOUTH CENTRAL PA FIRST ALERT POST
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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TERRY RITZ
MVA in Upper Hanover Township PATRICK GRIFFIN
Smoldering Fire Found Inside Vacant Warehouse
Reading, PA - Early into "D" platoon's last night-shift on July 6th, the Berks County DES received a single cell phone call reporting smoke showing from a vacant warehouse. Engine-3 arrived at the three-and-a-half story vacant MJ Earl warehouse with smoke showing from the rear of the building. Firefighters found a large section of the floor burning and extending into the basement. Crews worked for nearly an hour to control the smoldering fire. The Marshal's Office is investigating. No injuries were reported and Chief Mogel (C2) had command.
Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Thursday, June 8th at 6:02 P.M., East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to an MVA in the Township. Upon arrival, they had a car and a pickup truck behind each other. It appeared that the pickup truck had hit the car. The cause and the severity of injuries sustained by the drivers were unknown, pending the outcome of the investigation. Assisting the fire company were fire police from Pennsburg, Upper Perk EMS and PA State Police.
DRILLS/TRAINING
If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JASON BATZ
Firefighters from Cumru and Brecknock assembled on Monday evening, July 17th, to review each other's equipment and conduct a joint extrication drill. After members looked over all the equipment, two teams were created to handle a simulated vehicle accident. After a brief critique was shared, firefighters were able to work on different skills on either vehicle. Shown here, Brecknock and Cumru firefighters work to stabilize a vehicle on it's side.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA