1st Responder News PA March Edition

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MARCH, 2O13

SHENANDOAH BLAZE DESTROYS NINE BUILDINGS - Page 4

- Page 14

J. KRIESHER

- Page 22

Shenandoah, PA - On February 23 at 3:20 a.m., five borough fire companies responded to a fire and rescue call at 36 West Coal St. Prior to the department's arrival, a female resident was forced to jump from a third story window onto the pavement below.

- See full story on page 9

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ADVERTISER INDEX

March, 2013

PAGE 4

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2009

1ST Responder Newspaper - SE

York City motel arson leaves over 50 displaced Boynton Beach hosts record event to help NFL alumni charities FLORIDA

York City, PA. On February 2nd at 9:40 a.m., York City Fire Rescue were dispatched to 132 N. George Street A guide to finding great companies at the Rodeway Inn for a structure fire Company Page with possible entrapment. Companies ar- JUMP TO FILE # rived to heavy smoke 020613107 Air Vacuum Corp.

25 showing from a two story, occupied, All Hands Fire EquipmentBOYNTON 15 motel, requesting the last thing that makes logical BEACH, FL - the It second alarm. at all. sense in such trying times is to wasn’t supposed to happen give at all.

An aggressive The crippled economy, the housAmbulance Billing 20 The was Boynton Beach ing slump, the unemployment attack was made on a room that Benevolent explosion, even the oceanic involved on theconsecondFirefighter floor. The Association ditions threatened to the beatfiredown was knocked down and IAFF Local bulk of Apparatus For Sale the 4th 30 Annual #1891 & with in aboutFishin’ ten minutes somecan ex- not possibly express theAll heartfelt Firehouse Chili Grand Slam put area. tension into the loft occu- gratitude that each shares for everyone who stood up on by the pants Boynton Beach were able to escape the fire.

Brindlee Mtn Fire App.Firefighter 17 threw Benevolent A suspect has been and arrested for down for this very cause. Heroes all.

Association onstarting April 18th. the fire, which worthy left 58 peoIt just wasn’t supposed ple displaced andtocaused $750,000- STEPHEN M. LEWIS Campbell Supply Co. 1,32 happen this year—the members in damage. Two people were injured looked at the state of the world JASON COLEMAN-COBB in the fire.

Choice Clean Gear and asked 11 themselves, “How do An arson fire injured two and displaced 58 occupants of the Rodeway Inn motel in York City. The secwe ask for sponsorship money, - JASON COLEMAN-COBB STEPHEN M. boat entry fees, donations and ond alarm fire was contained to one room with some extension to the loft. support at a time like this?”

Choice Marketing 19 Somehow though, in a mighty confluence of tenacity and generosity, Classified Page 31South Florida’s firefighters, fishing fanatics, chili connoisseurs and their taste testers pulled13 together for a full day of Comedy Works T fun and excitement to setIM EfewTO STAR T a over records and raise Command Fire Apparatus 31 for some kids $20,000.00 who ING ABOUT K N I H T really need it—especially during this economic crisis.

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CORPORATE INFORMATION In the end, this “little engine • HOSE TESTING IS AN ISO that could” wound up beating its 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania own records with 76 boats regisREQUIREMENT edition - Vol. 17 No. 3 - is published monthly, 12 times tered, the tournament’s recorda year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. breaking Periodicals fish weighing in at 63Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing plus pounds, over 870 pounds of offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Reto the cause by their sponder News, 1 Ardmore Street, NY fish 12553.donated No financial responsibility is assumed by thiscaptors, newspaper toand a new department publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typosingle event donation record of graphical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad over for charity! which was omitted or in error. Omissions or $20,000.00 errors must be It’s a story that speaks to the brought to A overwhelming division of: generosity of the attenAmericans—people helping peotion of the ple who need it when they need it newspaper during the most, giving of themselves when

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March, 2013

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March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

BVFD

Ron Norris directing traffic

STEPHEN BARRETT

Kulpmont Fire fighters first used deck guns and large hose lines to attack the fire from the exterior.

Fire damages five homes in Kulpmont Kulpmont, PA. On January 28th at 5:00 a.m., the Kulpmont, Mount Carmel, Shamokin, Mount Carmel Township, Coal Township Fire Departments and AREA EMS were dispatched to a house fire at 916 Chestnut Street.

Kulpmont’s engines found a two and a half story single home fully involved. Command quickly dispatched a second alarm, bringing Mount Carmel Township and Coal Township. Multiple RIT teams were dispatched but later canceled due to the dangerous road conditions. A snow and ice storm just started to hit the area.

Kulpmont firefighters used deck guns and large hose lines to attack the fire from the exterior.

Operations established a defensive

JUMP TO FILE #013013122

mode of attack to knock down the heavy flames and protect exposures.

The fire quickly jumped and spread to the exposure home on the D side. Firefighters entered the exposure home to stop the extension.

The main fire building eventual collapsed. The conditions in the D exposure became dangerous and was evacuated.

Mount Carmel Ladder 2 operated its elevated master stream. A number of hose lines were deployed into the rear yards to attack the fire. Firefighters continued to

use their deck guns and portable monitors in front and back of the two homes from the exterior.

The fire continued to burn intensively until being place under control late in the morning. Heavy construction equipment was brought in to help remove the smoldering rubble from the fire’s initial location.

The fire chief believes the fire was possibly accidental and does not look suspicious.

AREA EMS transported one of the residents to a local hospital with moderate burn injuries. Five homes were destroyed or damaged in this major fire.

- STEPHEN BARRETT

JC KRIESHER

Arson strikes Shamokin dwelling Northumberland County, PA. Around 10:30 p.m. on January 28, fire crews in Northumberland County were cleaning up from a two alarm job in Coal Township when the first alarm assignment was transmitted for Sunbury and Franklin Streets for a reported dwelling fire.

Units arrived to find a large three story brick row heavily in-

JUMP TO FILE #012913110

volved. Heavy lines were stretched and crews also went to the rear. The fire continued to rage and spread to the B side exposure. Crews went to the roof to perform vertical ventilation while other aerial devices were set up for

master stream operations.

The bulk of fire was knocked down in under two hours. Firefighters spent most of the night mopping up hot spots. While on scene, police took one male into custody for questioning. The man was later charged with arson.

- JC KRIESHER

Belle Valley Firefighter Ron Norris passes away It is with the deepest regret and sorrow and with a very heavy heart that the Belle Valley Fire Department must announce the passing of Firefighter Ron Norris. Ron died at his apartment on February 13th.

Ron initially joined BVFD in 1973. He left for a short time, returned in 1981 and has been a member ever since. Since joining, he has held several positions including firefighter, firefighter/traffic control (where he also was a captain and lieutenant, quartermaster, explorer post leader and board of director). Ron had at one point also held the position of Erie County Fire Police Commissioner.

At the time of his passing Ron was an active firefighter/traffic controller. Ron had recently been awarded the 2012 BVFD Traffic Control Person of the Year. This past December, Ron ended a three year term as a member of the Board

JUMP TO FILE #021413103

of Directors.

He was a very dedicated member of Belle Valley Fire Department. Most mornings, you could almost count on finding Ron at the firehouse. He was a walking encyclopedia of the fire service and of BVFD history.

Outside the fire department, Ron was very interested in trains. If he wasn’t at the firehouse, you could probably find him at the Train Shop or trackside watching trains pass by. Ron also enjoyed building and showing off his fire truck model collection.

Ron Norris was well liked by all. His absence will leave a large hole in our department.

- JOHN SEMPLE

PAUL GARRETT

Vehicle flips upside down in creek A teenager escaped injury when his silver 2005 Subaru Impreza flipped upside down into a small creek in Piatt Township at appoximately 10:45 Sunday morning. Tanner Eisley, 18, of Jersey Shore was driving on Cement Hollow Rd. when he rounded a curve and slid on the snow covered roadway and flipped into the creek. Eisley managed to climb out of his driver side window to escape. Aside from being wet and cold, Eisley suffered no injuries and was wearing his seat belt. Independent Hose Company of Jersey Shore and the Pennsylvania State Police responded to the wreck.

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Missouri: Eddy Meador, 54 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date:12/08/2012 Death Date: 12/08/2012 Fire Department: Pattonsburg Fire & Rescue Protection District Fire Dept. Info: Chief: Pending Initial Summary: Shortly after working several emergency incidents including a car fire followed by a hazmat call on a nearby Interstate Highway, Fire Chief Meador fell ill and passed away from a cause still to be determined.

Wisconsin: Steven W. Fritz, 58 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: 12/10/2012 Death Date: 12/10/2012 Fire Department: Rothschild Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Chief: Acting Fire Chief Glen Engebetson Initial Summary: Fire Chief Fritz fell ill while at his residence. Fire and EMS personnel responded to the call and transported Fritz to Saint Clare’s Hospital where he passed away from an apparent heart attack. Chief Fritz had responded to the fire station for at least one emergency call earlier in day.

Missouri: Jeffrey Hudson, 46 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 12/12/2012 Death Date: 12/12/2012 Fire Department: St. Louis Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Chief: Dennis Jenkerson Initial Summary: n the morning and a short time after returning from an emergency call, Firefighter Hudson was found deceased in his bunk at the fire house. The cause of death is still to be determined. Incident Location: Fire Station #36, 5000 S. Kingshighway Blvd Rhode Island: Philip A. Mortensen, 67 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: 12/22/2012 Death Date: 12/22/2012 Fire Department: Brooklyn Fire & EMS Protection District Fire Dept. Info: Chief: Assistant Chief Leif Spilde Initial Summary: Shortly after returning to his auto shop from an emergency call, Fire Chief Mortensen fell ill and was discovered on the ground outside of the building. Brooklyn Fire and EMS crews responded and began CPR but despite all efforts succumbed to what is thought to have been a cardiac related injury.

New York: Tomasz Marian Kaczowka, 19 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 12/24/2012 Death Date: 12/24/2012 Fire Department: West Webster Fire District Fire Dept. Info: Chief: James Deisenroth Initial Summary: Firefighter Chiapperini and Firefighter Kaczowka were shot and killed at the scene of a house fire that had been intentionally set in order to draw the firefighters into an ambush. Two other firefighters were also shot at the scene and are recovering in guarded condition at Strong Memorial Hospital. Investigation into the incident continues by local, state, and federal authorities. Incident Location: 191 Lake Road, Webster, NY New York: Mike J. Chiapperini., 43

Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 12/24/2012 Death Date: 12/24/2012 Fire Department: West Webster Fire District Fire Dept. Info: Chief: James Deisenroth Initial Summary: Firefighter Chiapperini and Firefighter Kaczowka were shot and killed at the scene of a house fire that had been intentionally set in order to draw the firefighters into an ambush. Two other firefighters were also shot at the scene and are recovering in guarded condition at Strong Memorial Hospital. Investigation into the incident continues by local, state, and federal authorities. Incident Location: 191 Lake Road, Webster, NY

Alabama: Jonathan Wayne Burgess, 33 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 01/08/2013 Death Date: 01/08/2013 Fire Department: South Alabama Regional Airport Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Chief: Michael Ellis Initial Summary: Firefighter Burgess passed away from an apparent heart attack while performing safety checks on the runway at the South Alabama Regional Airport. Incident Location: Runway 29, South Alabama Regional Airport

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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KIRK NEIDERMYER

Barn well off in Twin Valley Local West Nantmeal Township, PA. At 7:25 a.m., the barn fire assignment at 724 Bulltown Rd. was transmitted for Station 69. Chief 69 Romig arrived to a fully involved barn.

Glenmoore Engine 48-5 went in service with multiple hand lines including a Blitz fire. Ladder 69 setup up master steam operations.

Engine 33-5 setup a porta tank operation at the end of the driveway.

Chief Romig later reported that it was a two story 30 x 30 barn. He said the first floor housed around 12 calves, which all perished in the fire. The second floor was used to store hay. Chief Romig said they also had some charring in another barn, but were able to save it.

JUMP TO FILE #020913102

The fire was placed under control at 8:08 a.m. and was ruled electrical in nature by the Chester County fire marshal. The building was ruled $300,000 loss.

Chief Romig also stated that they had to use tankers to shuttle water to the scene until they were able to get a sufficient water supply from a pond nearby.

There were no injuries reported. All units cleared around 1:00 p.m.

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Early morning fire destroys garage Muhlenberg Township, PA. At 4:30 a.m., firefighters were dispatched to 5004 Mt. Vernon Street for a reported structure fire with possible entrapment. Police reported a working fire with negative entrapment. A defensive operation was ordered

by Chief 11 due to advanced fire conditions in a 100 x 100 commerical garage. Several explosions were heard from inside the structure. At the height of the fire, two-five inch supply lines were laid to feed two elevated master streams and several handlines and ground monitors. The Muhlenberg Twp. Fire Marshals office investigated and found the cause of the two alarmer was a wood stove that overheated.

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March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Pickup strikes tree, plunges down embankment, explodes into flames

JEFF GOLDBERG

Yardley, PA. Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company were dispatched to Marine Rescue Box 0-3 in the area of 61 North Delaware Avenue for a Dodge pickup truck which struck a tree, went down an embankment and exploded into flames on the icy Delaware River at approximately 7:25 a.m. on January 27, 2013.

The driver of the pickup selfextricated, climbed up the embankment and was transported to a local hospital by the YardleyMakefield Emergency unit.

Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Rescue 0’s crew went in service with a hose line and extin-

JUMP TO FILE #012813110

guished the bulk of the fire.

Special Service 0’s crew launched a marine unit to help extinguish hot spots.

Rescue 80 assisted with extinguishment.

Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Fire Police conducted traffic control operations.

The Yardley Borough Police Department is investigating the accident.

- JEFFREY GOLDBERG

KIRK NEIDERMYER

Fourth alarm fatal with Mayday Lancaster City, PA. At 4:25 a.m. on February 18th, city firefighters were dispatched to 225 East Madison Street for a reported house fire.

City units were advised by LCWC that they are receiving multiple calls reporting people trapped on the second floor. LCPD reported two people trapped.

Engine 3 arrived to heavy smoke showing from the middle of the row. Captain 4 assumed the command and requested his second and third alarms with Metro RIT, Truck 63 (Lafayette) and Truck 204 (Eden).

Engine 3 started a primary search. Upon their search, a city lieutenant got trapped on the second floor due to a flashover on the first floor. The RIT was activated and the lt. was rescued quickly. The lieutenant was flown to Crozer-Chester Medical Center for treatment.

Two residents perished in the morning fire. Two other firefighters were treated for minor injuries. City units remain on the scene at 2:15 p.m. Lancaster City firefighters were assisted by Metro Companies from Manheim Township Fire Rescue, Lancaster Township, Blue Rock, Willow Street, Lafayette, Ronks,

JUMP TO FILE #021813122

New Danville, Lampeter and Garden Spot Fire Rescue provided the Canteen.

According to reports, Firefighter Craig Roberson suffered a fractured vertebra after bailing out a split door on the C side of the house. Firefighter Thomas Bender suffered first and second degree burns on his hands and a laceration on his shoulder after bailing out a second floor window on the A side. Both were treated and released from LGH. Lt Andre Kelly suffered second and third degree burns to about 2025% of his body. Lt Kelly was flown to Crozer-Chester Medical Center where he is listed in critical but stable condition. Lt Kelly has under gone a bronchoscopy to determine the status of his airway. There was some swelling to the upper airway, but the lower airway was clear which is good news. He will remain sedated for a few days at which time the test will be repeated.

- KIRK NEIDERMYER

MAHANOY CITY FD

Old Cigar plant burns outside Mahanoy City Mahanoy Township, PA. On February 4, 2013 at 2:10 p.m., the Mahanoy City Fire Department, Frackville Ladder 43-20, Altamont West Mahanoy Township RIT Team and the Mahanoy City Ambulance were dispatched to 11 East End Road in Mahanoy Township for a working commercial fire.

The fire was reported to be at the old Mahanoy City Cigar Plant complex on the east edge of town.

The caller reported that individuals doing work in the vacant building accidentally caught the roof to the fire.

West End Engine 465 found heavy black smoke showing from the roof. Humane Engine 451 established a water supply at a hydrant on White Owl Drive. Engine 451 supplied Engine 465 with water to prepare the attack.

The third alarm was struck due to the size of the structure and the

JUMP TO FILE #020613117

conditions.

A second water supply was established from portable ponds that were supplied by multiple mutual aid tankers.

Mahanoy City firefighters worked of Engine 454 advancing hand lines into the building to prevent fire spread. Interior crews had trouble finding the fire due to limited visibility and access into the building.

Fire then vented from the roof of the building prompting Aerial master stream operations. Deck guns and a number of portable monitors were set up to prepare for defensive operations.

Tower 456 and Ladder 43-20 placed their elevated master streams into operation. Water then

flowed onto the burning roof section to stop the spreading fire in the roof.

Firefighters extended 400 feet of three inch hose to the rear of the building for another attack. Crews made entry in the rear and extended lines inside the large structure.

Interior attack crews located the fire in the middle of the building and extinguished it with a two inch hose line.

Altamont and Pottsville City RIT teams stood by on location and were not activated.

Fire units remained on the scene for over three hours to prevent flare ups and to do the investigation.

A number of mutual aid EMS units responded and assisted the Mahanoy City EMS with the incident.

- STEPHEN BARRETT

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

PagE 9

KEN SNYDER

DENNY L CLOPPER

Passenger car versus manure spreader

J. KRIESHER

Shenandoah blaze destroys nine buildings Shenandoah, PA. On February 23 at 3:20 a.m., five borough fire companies responded to a fire and rescue call at 36 West Coal St. Prior to the department's arrival, a JUMP TO FILE # female resident was 030413103 forced to jump from a third story window onto the pavement below.

Lisa Goida,43, sustained serious injuries and was transported to Geissinger Medical Center in Danville by ambulance.

Medivac was grounded that night due to the inclemant weather.

From an adjoining window, firefighters were able to rescue Dean Tessitore, 52, via a ladder. He was transported to Schuylkill Medical Center-South Jackson St. with smoke inhalation and later released.

The fire continued to spread from the middle of the row on Coal St., around the corner to the middle of the row on Jardin St. All the fire buildings were three stories with the corner building at Coal and Jardin Sts. being newly renovated.

In the early stages of the fire, an interior attack had to be aban-

doned for the safety of the firefighters and a defensive mode established. At times, ground level smoke and slippery conditions presented a problem.

When flames blew out the windows on Coal St., they damaged a utility pole and wires causing a power outage in some northern areas of the borough. On the firegrounds, several ground streams were deployed and in service aerials were Frackville's ladder, Mahanoy City's tower ladder and Shenandoah's telesqurt and tillered ladder.

The fire went to four alarms with numerous mutual aid companies on the scene or on cover ups.

The fire started in a second floor middle room at 36 West Coal St. It quickly spread to 28, 30, 32, 34, 38 and 40 W. Coal St. Also involved were 121 and 123 North Jardin St. Homes that had heavy water damage were 125 and 127 N. Jardin St. The PSP fire marshals, who investigated the blaze, were unable to come up with a cause due to the tremedous amount of devastation.

At least twelve people, who were displaced by the fire, are receiving care from the Red Cross and religious organizations.

- KEN SNYDER

A passenger car collided with a manure spreader being pulled by a John Deere tractor on Friday evening, February 15, at around 6:25 p.m.

The accident occurred in the 7800 block of Molly Pitcher Highway North, Southampton Township, Shippensburg.

Box 15-1 was dispatched by Franklin County 911 reporting an auto accident with entrapment. En-

JUMP TO FILE #021713106

gine 15-2 and Squad 15 West End Fire & Rescue CO. along with two BLS units from Co. 73 Shippensburg Area EMS and Medic 84 West Shore ALS responded. Duty 15 also checked up.

A single vehicle was located in the roadway with heavy front end

damage. The vehicle was occupied by two people. One was confined and one was trapped. Both had to be extricated from the vehicle. The operator of the tractor was uninjured.

After extrication was complete both patients were removed from the vehicle and placed into the care of EMS personnel.

- DENNY CLOPPER

PAGE 10

March, 2013

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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STEVE SPIES

Fire damages farm house in Bern Township Greenfields Fire Company, along with Mt. Pleasant, Leesport, Centeral Berks, Temple, Muhlenberg, Bernville, Township of Sprin and Western Berks Ambulance were dispatched to a structure fire in the 500 block of Grange Road on February 24th. Crew found a working fire in a two story stone farmhouse. A ground floor dining room was involved in flame and smoke had filled the rest of the house. Fire crews broke out windows to ventilate the structure and the fire was brought under control shortly thereafter. A tanker task force was set up. Several caged dogs were rescued and given oxygen by EMTs. Three guinea pigs were killed in the blaze. Fire crews remained on scene to conduct overhaul and check for hot spots. The crews were released around 4:00 p.m. Bern Township Police’s Special Services Unit is conducting the investigation into the cause, which was faulty wiring.

Correspondent Contest Sponsored by All Hands Fire Equipment 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 March editions from All Hands Fire Equipment is a Gemtor Fire Rescue Class II Harness, Model 541NYCL. Our February editions winner of Firefighter One is a 5.11 Tactical Job Shirt with the Deluxe Embroidery package. was Patrick Belliveau from Waltham, MA. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212.

All Hands Fire Equipment is a leading national provider for the Gemtor Fire Rescue Class 2 Harness, Model 541NYC. This third generation harness is presently used by the FDNY as well as hundreds of other fire departments across the United States. The newly designed aluminum three stage locking Pompier hook, the lighter weight hardware and the new stronger stitich design make this Class II Harness a must-have for firefighters.

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Yes, you read correctly, this is a ten DVD set which covers 44 episodes and is 15 hours in length. The first disk was reviewed in this column in 2007.

The episodes were made in 2001, before the World Trade Center tragedy. Coverage was done in many cities including New York City.

A number of the New York City firefighters within these DVD’s were killed on 9-11-01.

One lieutenant I knew, who is in some of this footage, was not killed on 9-11 but did pass away from a heart attack some time later.

I reviewed the second disk, which is one hour and 44 minutes in length. These episodes were to be on television, but I cannot honestly say they were as I had not seen them.

Anyway, they are enhanced by vest cams at times, which brings you inside the burning buildings and places where emergencies took place.

I will only review this second

DVD for two reasons. First, because they are sold as a package, not individually and secondly, if I reviewed each of them, it would take a year as videos are reviewed in this publication every other month.

Due to the fact that these episodes were filmed for television, they bounce to different scenes very quickly, which is not what you would see on the average video taken by a videographer, who would not be permitted in the building.

Whereas most of the videos we review dwell on the outside of a structure or an incident, it is easier to take notes while analyzing it.

These ten DVD’s advance too quickly to allow for note taking.

I will simply cover the incidents from the episodes on this DVD. Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue is the first, and they handle an apartment house fire. However, this house is one story high with horizontally attached apartments.

When the fire is knocked down a relief crew is called to overhaul.

Their next incident is a stabbing.

Next is New York City and they fight a three story apartment house fire and later do SCUBA training. Then, there is a cellar fire and an MVA with entrapment.

The District of Columbia is next with a fully involved car fire next to a dumpster. Next, is a suicide attempt, a gas leak in a school and a female assaulted.

Los Angeles City is next with a structure fire caused by a mattress resulting with a fatality. Members of Station 9 talk about their work.

An abandoned house fire is next followed by a house fire caused by a candle. Finally they respond to a man with head trauma.

Back to New York City we go with a multiple dwelling fire, an interview with Rescue 2, an apartment fire and finally hazmat training.

This set is well worth the money to see and will keep you off the streets for awhile if you view each of them!

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March, 2013

Page 11

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March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

BARBARA WEST

BRUCE WALTERS

Blue Knob and Portage firefighters run rollover accident On Sunday, February 24th at 5:57 p.m., while cleaning up from a fundraising event, the Portage Volunteer Fire Department and a standby crew from Blue Knob were dispatched for a motor vehicle rollover. The incident address was 2943 Frankstown Rd in Portage Township Cambria County. Blue Knob Engine/Rescue 86-31, Portage Heavy Rescue 83-3, and Deputy 83 responded.

Crews found a single vehicle rollover off the roadway and into the front yard of a residence. A safety survey was completed by the first arriving officer and found all occupants self-extricated and denying injury. The vehicle was secured and fluids contained. Traffic control was also setup.

Due to adverse winter conditions, all apparatus were released from the scene and fire police handled the call until the vehicle was cleared.

Job in Lebanon City Lebanon, PA. At 12:15 p.m. on February 3rd, a report of a house on fire was dispatched for companies in the City of Lebanon. Crews arrived at 405 East Elm Street, a two story split-level home to smoke showing. Firefighters located the fire in a rear bedroom and had it under control in 30 minutes. One occupant was burned and suffered smoke inhalation while attempting to fight the fire. The occupant was taken to the VA Medical Center for treatment. Another occupant and two dogs managed to escape unharmed.

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Reading, PA. Sunday February 10th was the date for the 8th annual Battle of Badges charity hockey game featuring the Reading firefighters and police officers. Ultimately, the firefighters lost their quest for victory with the final score 6-2.

Firefighters Jim Salanik and Steve Turner scored their first ever goals in the tournament. The tournament raises money for a scholarship fund to provide money to children of firefighters and police officers.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

PAgE 13

Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser

TIMOTHY KNEPP

Early morning house fire in Lower Allen Township On February 5th shortly after 6:00 a.m., units were dispatched to 1916 Letchworth Drive in Lower Allen Township for smoke from a house. Engine 312 reported smoke showing from the attic. Crews advanced lines and had the second due pumper, Squad 13, lay a supply line. Truck 12 opened the roof. Additional units were requested due to low manpower and extensive overhaul. Crews remained on scene for about two hours.

Chief 112 (Murdoch) had the command.

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.

Comedyworks Entertainment!

Stand-up Comedy Show Fund-raising Comedians from HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show WOODY WOODWARD

Welcome home Katelyn Elliott Firefighter Katelyn Elliot, a firefighter from Station 207, was involved in a very serious car accident on October 17, 2012 that left her in critical condition. After everyone’s prayers, numerous surgeries and countless hours of rehab, Katelyn was released from Hershey Medical Center on January 24th 2013.

Lancaster County Fire and EMS welcomed Katelyn home.

Katelyn is a firefighter with MTFR (Neffsville) Station 207. Firefighter Katelyn Elliot was greeted by MTFR, East Petersburg and Elizabethtown Fire Companies when released at Hershey Medical Center. East Hempfield Police escorted the convoy.

Katelyn rode Engine 207 back to Lancaster County. Her first stop was at the Lancaster County Public Safety Training Center, where she was met by numerous pieces of fire equipment from all over Lancaster County. Katelyn was then escorted home by a convoy of emergency vehicles, where her friends and family were awaiting her return. Lancaster County apparatus that attended the convoy were all MTFR stations, Engines 74-2, 69-1, 55-2, 89-1, 12-2, 58-2, 07-2, 25-1, 24-1, 15-2, Hose 39, Rescues 23, 901, 66, 804, 79, Tankers 71 and 69.

“Featured in the 1st Responder News, VolunteerFD.Org, EMSMagazine.Com, ABC News, and NY Times.”

Somerset Fire Company, NJ

Comedyworks Entertainment!

w w w. c o m e d y w o r k s . o r g call toll free: 1(888)782-4589 e-mail: JoeyNovick@earthlink.net

PAGE 14

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have a photo for Little Big Guys please upload it to our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email it to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

CHRIS HALDEMAN

Farmersville building fire FRANK ROBINSON

The East Freedom Fire Company operates a 2000 Dodge/Curry Supply Rescue Squad.

West Earl Township, PA. On February 3rd, Box Alarm 35 was transmitted to the first block of South Farmersville Road for a reported building fire. Chief 35 reported a working fire in a large pole barn.

Command requested three additional tankers to the assignment.

Tanker 35 along with Engine 35-1 deployed multiple water lines to make an aggressive interior attack.

Interior operations reported a vehicle also on fire inside the enclosed 20 x 75 part of the entire 120 x 75 struc-

JUMP TO FILE #020413104

ture.

During the incident, command reported the fire started in a stove heating unit in the enclosed section of the large pole structure. No injuries were reported as the fire heavily damaged the structure and a work van.

- CHRIS HALDEMAN

FRANK ANDRUSCAVAGE

Multiple row homes burn in Shenandoah PAUL GARRETT

Shenandoah, PA. On January 19, 2013 at 3:40 a.m., the Shenandoah Fire Department, Mahanoy City West End Rescue 993 and Shenandoah Ambulance were dispatched to 432 West Center Street for a house fire. Shenandoah police and EMS found smoke showing.

The fire spread quickly and began to move through the roof area within the walls of the home. The fire quickly jumped to the adjacent homes on West Center Street.

Firefighters entered the row homes to find the second floor well involved. Firefighters had to make a defensive attack from the street with multiple hose lines.

The exposure attack crews stretched hose lines into the attics, where they found heavy fire. The smoke conditions in the first exposure home worsened and the fire spread to the next door residence.

Shenandoah Fire Chief 740 ordered the second alarm dispatched.

Mahanoy City West End Fire Company Engine 465, Englewood-Butler Township Engine 369, Shenandoah Heights-West Mahanoy Township Engine 881, Frackville-Goodwill Ladder 43-20, Lost Creek EMS and Frackville

JUMP TO FILE #012813132

Ambulance were dispatched.

Squirt 745 placed its elevated ladder on to the B side exposure home and vented the roof. The fire chief ordered additional hose lines into the initial fire exposure homes when the fire vented from the roof vent holes.

The extreme cold weather put a harsh strain on the operating firefighters. One firefighter fell through the floor and had to be transported to the hospital by ambulance. Incident command ordered the third alarm to the scene.

Ladders from Ashland and Numernburg responded.

The incident commander ordered additional hose line crews in the exposure homes. Firefighters entered the heavily burned out two and a half story homes to extinguish multiple hot spots. The crews had the fire under control in less than an hour and half. Firefighters remained on the scene overhauling until noon.

State Police fire investigator, Shenandoah Police and fire mar-

shals investigated. The fire chief reported that there were no serious injuries to firefighters or residents.

The three alarm fire destroyed two houses and damaged four other row homes. Shenandoah, Frackville, Ringtown and Lost Creek EMS crews provided rehab services. The Red Cross Emergency Response unit assisted firefighters and displaced residents.

- STEPHEN BARRETT

New officers elected Independent Hose Company No.1 in Jersey Shore recently elected their officers for 2013.cFrom left to right are Secretary Charles Rhinehart, Vice President and Safety Officer Adam Wian, President Dennis Kilpatrick, Assistant Chief Matt Brown, Chief Robert Sheets, Captain Robert Cowfer, Captain 1-3 Jeremy Frantz, Lieutenant Mike Kilpatrick, and not shown Treasurer Shawn Hummer. In September the fire company will celebrate it's 111th year serving Jersey Shore and the surrounding communities.

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1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

Page 15

PAGE 16

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Heroes Mortgage Program

Six steps to a successful purchase of a new home this Spring The weather is about to break, finally. Soon spring will have finally sprung.

The springtime serves as peak home-buying season. Even though buyers have a greater advantage than they’ve had in awhile, it’s still easy to take a wrong, frustrating and–gasp– costly turn. But don’t worry: The Sun National Bank Heroes Mortgage Program provides six ways to make sure buying a new home proves to be a success.

1st Responder and Sun Home Loans teamed up to create the Heroes Mortgage Program. This exclusive mortgage opportunity provides discounted fees and low interest rates for firefighters and other members of the emergency services community. The program offers unmatched rates, minimal lender fees and promises to get clients in their new home by the contract date.

1. Be prepared: You will need to do a little homework before you get started looking for a new home. Make sure that you can locate all the documents necessary for you to be pre-approved for a mortgage. You will most likely need the following: Your two most recent pay stubs, your last two years W2’s, all of your asset statements, (checking, savings, 401k, stocks, bonds, mutual funds) and last two tax returns.

Sit down and work up your budget, know how much you want to spend before you are told how much you can actually spend.

2. Get pre-approved: Call the Heroes Mortgage Program to be pre-approved for your new mortgage. Without pre-approval, you will not know what you can afford to buy. This can get you into a very difficult situation. If you put an offer on a house without being approved and you can’t afford it, you might be opening the door to some very expensive litigation. Call the Heroes Mortgage Program today and find out what you can afford to buy.

3. Ensure you are working with a real estate professional.

Ask your Heroes Mortgage Program representative if they can recommend a real estate professional to you. It is extremely im-

portant to have a real estate agent who is working for you and your best interests. A real estate agent will look out for the best deals in your market and are there to facilitate the negotiating process and the transition to your new home.

4. Find a good real estate attorney. A lawyer can help you negotiate the real estate contract and renegotiate it if a home inspection finds flaws-or an appraisal deems the house less valuable than the sales price. A lawyer also represents your interests at the closing and does the lion’s share of paperwork and the coordination associated with it.

5. Make a firm offer. When you see a house you want, you’ll make a verbal offer. If the seller is interested, your next step is to commit yourself in writing. The written offer, or contract, is usually drawn up by the seller’s agent, but if you choose to use a buyer’s agent and real estate lawyer, they can negotiate and review that contract on your behalf. If you end up negotiating the price of the property, make sure that you check in with your Heroes Mortgage Program representative. You do not want to overbid the price of the property and then not be able to qualify.

6. Get the home inspected. No matter how good a house looks and no matter how much you love it, you want to be sure it’s sound structurally and in every other way. If it’s not, you want to know whether the seller will address the issue before you seal the deal. If not, you have to decide whether you want to back out of the deal or take care of the repairs yourself.

Sun Home Loans, a division of Sun National Bank, and 1st Responder are both proud to serve the heroes in our community, who dedicate their lives serving the rest of us. Clients enjoy unmatched customer service and attentiveness

throughout the process, from their initial inquiry, to closing. Working with its own resources and federal government programs, Sun National Bank develops solutions that open the path to home ownership.

Sun National Bank provides a full-range of banking products and services, delivered by experienced bankers. Personal attention merges with world-class service and competitive products that meet the needs of today’s consumers and businesses. Sun National Bank believes that doing business in the community means being a part of it.

Whether purchasing a new home or refinancing an existing one, the Heroes Mortgage Program is offered exclusively, providing personal service, benefits and rates not normally available to the general public.

“The springtime is the perfect time to buy a home and we make it even easier with aggressive products and programs available to the men and woman who give so much,” said Steven Testa, an executive vice president with Sun National Bank.

“The Heroes Mortgage Program continues to be a success and we are excited to work with more of out 1st responders as the market continues to flourish. We all look forward in continuing to build our relationship with the emergency services community.”

To receive more information about the program and its benefits, contact Steven Testa at stesta@sunnb.com or call 973615-9745.

Sun National Bank Home Loans and 1st Responder Newspaper are not affiliated. All loans subject to approval. Certain conditions and fees may apply. Mortgage financing provided by Sun National Bank Loans, Equal Housing Lender.

Win an iPad 1st Responder and Sun Home Loans team up to promote mortgage program If you are a member of the emergency services community, now is your chance to enter Sun Home Loans and 1st Responder Newspaper’s contest to win a free iPad. Just go to our website at www.1RBN.com and fill in the entry form. Once you complete it, you will receive an email that requires you to confirm your email address. Once you do that, you are entered!

1st Responder will also be accepting applications at all of the local trade shows that it attends throughout the country in the coming months.

A total of FIVE iPads will be given away so your chances to win are excellent. Sign up to win today!

Mortgage Checklist 1. Look for a bargain: According to the National Association of Realtors, home prices often drop by an average $7,000 after Labor Day. Prices in the Northeast can plummet by nearly $20,000 by October.

2. Know the market: Here's a quick quiz. Do you know why sellers in some Northeast and Midwest towns drop prices so quickly? Because winter's coming and they don't want to spend another year digging out the place. Use that to your advantage.

3. Know when a seller is desperate: Does the photo of the house you've been pining over all summer on MLS look exactly as it did when you first saw it Memorial Day? Is there yet another open house coming up in a few weeks? That all works in your favor. If a buyer hasn't budged since the summer, chances are there's room to negotiate. If they want the house sold more than they want a big profit, well, that's how deals are born.

4. Kick the tires: Fall is the time of year when the weather takes a turn. When you're buying a home, the leaf litter and returning rain provide ample opportunities to see where the current homeowners have done work and what they've neglected. For the most part, there shouldn't be leaves piled up in the gutters in late September or early October. There also should be decent gutter drainage that doesn't involve water spewing from where a drain pipe once was.

5. Help is on the way: Census Bureau numbers indicate that fall is a tough time for contractors and home and garden stores. If your dream house could use a kitchen upgrade or central air through its heating ducts, home stores and builders usually start discounting inventory around this time of year and can help you make changes without spending as much during warmer months.

For more information on the Heroes Mortgage Program, visit www.1RBN.com

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

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Page 17

PAGE 18

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

STEPHEN BARRETT

Two alarm rowhome in Mount Carmel

NIK KNAUER

Reading Firefighter Eric Rios resigns Congratulations to Reading Firefighter Eric Rios, who has resigned after 18 years of service to the City of Reading.

Eric is planning on moving to the Upper West Side in Manhattan, where he plans to continue his studies in meditation coaching. Eric first experienced yoga in 2001 and was introduced to the discipline of meditation. He was certified to teach yoga in 2003 and registered with the Yoga Alliance.

Since 2001, Eric has been working toward his goal of becoming a meditation coach.

Mount Carmel, PA. On February 12th at 6:25 p.m., the Mount Carmel Fire Department, Mount Carmel Township Fire Department and AREA EMS were dispatched to East Center and Locust Streets for a house fire. Mount Carmel Police reported smoke showing.

One of the assistant fire chiefs found flames shooting from the rear of a two and a half story row home. He confirmed a working fire and determined there were three homes in danger of burning. He requested the second alarm dispatched. Fire units from Shamokin, Kulpmont, Coal Township and Ashland responded to assist.

Large hose lines and deck gun from Engine 2 were deployed and

JUMP TO FILE #021513100

attacked the fire from the A side.

Engine 21 crew deployed hose lines into the backyard to attack the fire. Firefighters operated in a defensive mode in the first ten minutes of fast moving fire.

The main ladder and a ventilation crew were sent to the roof of the burning homes. The remaining of the first and second alarm units staged a block away and sent their crews to side A for manpower.

The fire quickly spread throughout the second floor and attic of all three homes. Firefighters mounted a defensive attack at

first, which led into offensive interior attack. The majority of the fire was knocked down in an hour from the interior with the hose lines.

Multiple crews entered all of the homes to overhaul and extinguish hot spots.

The crews from Rescue 62 and Engine 221 stood by as RIT. AREA EMS assisted with rehab operations throughout the extended incident. The fire chief believes the fire started in a second floor rear room of the middle home. A number of additional mutual aid fire units stood by for the Shamokin and Mount Carmel Fire Departments.

- STEPHEN BARRETT

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Where are they Now” feature, please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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KEN SNYDER

This 1967 Mack Eaton 75' once ran as Tower 1 in Allentown,PA. It is now privately owned and awaiting restoration in New York

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

Page 19

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PAGE 20

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

JASON COLEMAN-COBB JEFF GOLDBERG

Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company Deputy Chief Joe Taylor and Fire Chief Frank Farry with the 2013 Top Responder Mike Lentine (510 alarms).

Langhorne-Middletown’s banquet Get your personal copy of

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www.1RBN.com

Bristol, PA. The LanghorneMiddletown Fire Company held its 55th Annual Fire Company Installation Banquet on FebJUMP TO FILE # ruary 2, 2013.

The 2013 admin- 020413100 istrative officers are President Kurt Geiselhart, Vice President Steven Weng, Financial Secretary William Meredith, Treasurer Milt Berger, Secretary Lou Ann Geiselhart, Trustee Chairman Charlie Berk, Trustee John Scheetz, Trustee Joe Taylor, Trustee Charlie “Bud” Anderson and Trustee George Anderson.

The 2013 line officers are Pennsylvania State Representative/Fire Chief Frank Farry, Deputy Chief Joe Taylor, Assistant Chief Jerry Vacchiano, Battalion Chief Patrick McWilliams, Captain 21 Gary Wiley, Captain 21-2 David Kaiser, Captain 22 John Dott, Lieutenant 21 Adam Saba, Lieutenant 21-2 Bryan Distler, Lieutenant 22 Kurt Geiselhart, Safety Officer Chris Gentry, Radio Officer Mike Lentine, and Chief Engineer Charlie Berk. The 2013 Fire Police Officers are: Captain Larry Harvey, Lieutenant William Meredith and Corporal Milt Berger.

Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company past President Ryan Marte presented the 2012 Presidents Award to Gary Wiley.

Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company Fire Chief Frank Farry presented the 2012 Chiefs Award to Chief Engineer Charlie Berk.

Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company Fire Chief Frank Farry also presented a special award to Mike “Bubba” Burnell for his 30 years of service delighting the young and old as serving as Santa.

The Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company would like to thank the Parkland Fire Company for covering their fire district during the banquet.

- JEFFREY GOLDBERG

Attic fire damages Lower Allen home Lower Allen Township, PA. On Tuesday, February 5, 2012, around 6:00 a.m., Box 12-03 toned out for a reported house fire at 1916 Letchworth Drive in Lower Allen Township. Caller reported his attic was to be on fire.

Engine 3-12 (Lower Allen) arrived to a one and a half story dwelling with smoke showing.

A line was stretched to the D

JUMP TO FILE #021313102

side and advanced to the attic area where companies knocked down the bulk of the fire. Truck 12 provided vertical ventilation and a second line was run to assist interior operations. Command requested an additional two engines

and rescue to the scene.

The fire was placed under control in about 30 minutes with no injuries reported.

The occupant of the house was arrested after becoming unruly with police officers.

- JASON COLEMAN-COBB

JASON BATZ

First responders receive award for AED save Reading, PA - Firefighters from the Reading Fire Department received recognition for their role in a successful resuscitation of a cardiac arrest patient last summer. The award was sponsored

by Heart Safe Reading, which is a non-profit group with the Reading Hospital who provided free AED's to all Berks County Police Departments and the Reading Fire Department.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

PagE 21

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.

KIRK NEIDERMYER KEN SNYDER

Paint shop fire in West Earl Township West Earl Township, PA. At 12:45 p.m., Station 35’s first alarm assignment was transmitted for a reported building fire. Chief 35 reported a working fire and requesting four additional tankers.

Engine 35-1 deployed a two and a half with Blitz fire and twoone and three quarter inch lines to begin attacking the fire. Truck 31 went to work venting the roof along with Truck 39. Tanker 29 JUMP TO FILE # setup a fill site at 020313102 the end of the driveway. Rescue 39 had the RIT. The fire was placed under control at 1:18 p.m. There were no injuries reported.

Crews cleared at 1:49 p.m.

The cause of the fire was a woodstove.

Companies assisting Farmersville were Bareville, West Earl, Garden Spot Fire Rescue, Intercourse, Martindale, Upper Leacock, Fivepointville, Weaverland Valley Fire Department and Witmer.

- KIRK NEIDERMYER

Read more stories on our website! www.1rbn.com

Truck 88 of the Middletown Fire Department is a 2009 Seagrave Marauder II 95'

PAGE 22

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

DENNY L CLOPPER

Five counties battle house fire JASON COLEMAN-COBB

Middle Paxton home destroyed by fire Middle Paxton Townhip, PA. On February 12, 2013, at 10:49 a.m., Dauphin County Box 38-4 alerted companies to 1051 Hecks Drive for a house fire. Chief 29-2 reported a working garage fire attached to a single family dwelling.

Engine 38 dropped a line and proceeded up the driveway to the front of the structure.

A portable pond was established at Engine 38's lay out and Engine 20 (Northeast Fire Rescue)

JUMP TO FILE #013013122

pumped the supply line. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack on the fire, using several hand lines. Due to water supply issues, all companies were ordered to evacuate about 15 minutes into the fire.

Additional tankers began to arrive and master streams were set

up to battle the stubborn flames. A second portable pond was established as firefighters began to knock down the bulk of the fire.

Companies continued to operate for over an hour before bringing the fire under control. The two-story home was destroyed.

Multiple companies from Dauphin, Cumberland, and Perry counties assisted at the scene.

- JASON COLEMAN-COBB

Several fire companies from five counties battled the flames and smoke from a house fire on February 22nd in the 22000 block of Briggs Road, Fannett Township.

The initial call was dispatched at around 11:15 a.m. for a reported chimney fire. Heavy smoke was evident, pointing out that they had more than a chimney fire. Command 12 upgraded the call to a house fire.

This began the dispatch of more companies to the scene from Franklin, Cumberland, Perry, Juniata and Huntingdon Counties.

The initial attack was interior, but later changed to a defensive attack. Many additional tankers were

JUMP TO FILE #022313100

called. Water was shuttled from a near by pond.

Heavy smoke was pouring from the home, changing colors from time to time, with flames shooting out the windows.

Two adult family members escaped the home uninjured. The home was a total loss. The American Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the two adults.

Some units were on the scene until the late afternoon hours.

- DENNY CLOPPER

Vehicle News

FRANK ROBINSON

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

The Limerick Fire Company operates a 2012 KME Res- The Durlach-Mt. Airy fire company operates this 2011 The Parkesburg Fire Company has taken delivery of this cue Pumper 1500/750.

Pierce Saber engine that was a former demo for Pierce 2012 Pierce Arrow XT PUC quint equipped with a 75' (1750/1000). stick with a 1500 gpm pump and a 500 gallon tank.

To see your vehicle news, email them to heather@1strespondernews.com or post them on our website at DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR.

FRANK ROBINSON

The City of Allentown EMS has taken delivery of a 2012 The Bareville Fire Company now operates a 2012 Pierce Chevy Tahoe Arrow XT 75' PUC 1500/500.

www.1rbn.com

March, 2013

1sT Responder newspaper - Pa

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.

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KEN SNYDER

Shenandoah's Columbia hose Co. No. 1 Pierce e 742 on scene at a multi alarm fire in Shenandoah on February 23, 2013.

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Shenandoah heights e 861 (2010 hMe rosenbauer/Central States 1500/750) pumping at a multi alarm fire in Shenandoah on February 23, 2013.

PAGE 24

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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.

DALE FEEHRER FRANK ANDRUSCAVAGE

Residents escape from Gordon house fire Gordon, PA. On January 23, 2013 at 9:05 p.m., the Gordon Fire Company, Ashland Fire and Rescue, Ashland Ambulance and Shenandoah ALS were dispatched to a structure with entrapment reported at 322 Hobart Stree.

Multiple 911 calls reported individuals trapped inside and jumping from windows. Gordon Fire Chief 46 and Engine 46-10 found a working fire in a two and a half story home. He quickly ordered a second alarm with additional EMS units.

Engine and Tankers from Butler Township and the West End Fire Company of Mahanoy City were dispatched. The RIT teams from Englewood and Altamont

JUMP TO FILE #012813131

were then ordered to the scene.

Ashland assisted Gordon in locating all missing residents. Ashland Ambulance and Shenandoah Medic 64 evaluated the residents for possible injuries and smoke inhalation. One resident was transported to a local hospital.

A number of hose lines were deployed to the front of the structure to attack the venting flames.

Ashland Ladder 38-25 set up on A side of the home and went to the roof. Ashland firefighters proceeded to the roof to conduct vertical ventilation. The additional

Mahanoy City and Butler Township firefighters entered the home.

The fire was quickly knocked down and brought under control by 10:30 p.m. Firefighters continued to work on soaking down and overhauling the fire building. The sub-freezing temperatures made the firefighting operations very challenging. Rehab was setup by the local EMS units.

The home was destroyed and the resident needed the assistance of the American Red Cross. Mutual aid fire-rescue and EMS units were placed available and returned by midnight.

The Rheems Fire Department, operates this 2009 KME (1500/1000/20f) designated as Engine 701

KEN SNYDER

Ladder Tower 1 of the Hazleton Fire Department is a 1996 KME 1250/150/102’

- STEPHEN BARRETT

DALE FEEHRER

Columbia #1 of Lancaster County, PA operate this 2009 KME Predator engine 1500/500/30f

PAUL GARRETT

Snow plow flips car A Jersey Shore woman escaped injury when her vehicle went out of control in front of a Penn- Dot snow plow truck. At approximately 12 noon on February 29th, Sherrie Brown 59, of Jersey Shore was traveling southbound on Route 220 near Spook Hollow Road in Piatt Township, in the passing lane when her 1997 Subaru Legacy began to slide on the snow covered roadway. According to John Rhinehart, the driver of a Penn-Dot snow plow, Brown tried to pass his plow and spun out of control hitting the guide rail and bounced back onto the roadway directly in front of his plow.

He hit the Subaru broad side and flipped it onto its driver's side, pushing the Subaru about 25 yards before coming to a stop. Brown was the lone occupant and was not injured. Rescue personnel from Independent Hose Co. in Jersey Shore responded to the incident. Southbound traffic on Route 220 was backed up for about 45 minutes so crews could clear the roadway.

KEN SNYDER

Utility 54 of the Londonderry Fire Company is a 2005 Ford/ Swab

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

PAge 25

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Allentown Firefighter Tom King and Captain Christian Williams battle flames in the bar area

Allentown battle third alarm in freezing cold Allentown, PA. At around 4:20 a.m. on January 22nd units were dispatched for a reported structure fire at 23rd and Walnut Streets. Dispatched were Battalion 43, Engines 10, 4, 9 and Truck 2.

Engine 10 reported heavy smoke showing from Youell’s Oyster House. As Engine 10’s crew began to make entry Battalion Chief Wehr took command and ordered the next in company to stretch a supply line to Engine 10. Wehr also ordered Truck 2 to go in service to the roof. Engine 10 advises of heavy fire in the building and signaled a working fire. Engine 11 was dispatched as RIT. With frigid conditions and heavy fire, Wehr made a special call for an additional engine, bringing Engine 6. Within minutes, a second alarm was struck.

An additional RIT was requested bringing in the last two engine companies.

JUMP TO FILE #012713113

FEATURES INCLUDE: As fire shot through the roof, Battalion Chief Wehr requested the evacuation of an emergency scene and firefighters are pulled from the building.

Firefighters continued to battle the fire on the exterior of the building for over an hour when the wall on the D side collapsed on two firefighters, causing a MAYDAY to be transmitted. The two firefighters were taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest as trauma alerts, but were released later that day.

Five firefighters were injured battling the blaze that burned for over two hours before being brought under control. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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MEET OUR CORRESPONDENTS 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.

www.airvac911.com Phone: 800-540-7264 • Email: sales@airvacuumcorporation.com

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1st Responder News correspondent Denny Clopper received a Company Appreciation Award from the South Newton Township Volunteer Fire Co. for his services toward the company in public relations, news media and public support for the year of 2012.

PAGE 26

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos you would like to see in our Antique Apparatus feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

PAUL GARRETT

Another crew works on the passenger side of the cab to free Thomas FRANK ROBINSON

Rig accident traps driver for nearly two hours

Clifton Heights Fire Department has a 1948 Mack L 750/400.

"The tractor trailer was flatter than any I've seen up here in my 35 years," said Sugar Valley Volunteer Fire Co. Deputy Chief, Dennis Long.

Long was one of the first on the scene of a tractor trailer accident on eastbound Route 80, just two miles from the Jersey Shore exit in Clinton County. The driver of the rig was pinned beneath the crushed metal of his cab for almost two hours.

Zachery Thomas, 32, of Washington, Ohio was driving an over sized flat bed load on the highway, when he lost control of the rig on the snow-covered roadway. The rig flipped onto it’s roof, spilling his load of ten portable metal road decks onto the shoulder of Route 80.

Miraculously, Thomas was not

JUMP TO FILE #022713114

severely injured. "He was talking to us the whole time and was anxious to get out, but it takes a while sometimes," said Chief Long. "The rig was upside down on top of him and his legs were pinned between the dash and the seat", said the chief.

Rescue crews worked to free the driver from the tangled wreckage and had to bring in a portable heater to blow warm air into the cab. " With this kind of temperature, the body deteriorates quickly unprotected. You have to worry about hypothermia," explained Chief Long.

Firemen used hydraulic lifts inside the cab to separate the metal surrounding the victim so he could

be freed.

"It's a long slow process of getting him out. There were four companies here and we all worked together as a team," said Dunnstown's Fire Company's Deputy Chief Steve Plessinger.

Units from Sugar Valley, Dunnstown, Castenea and Flemington were on the scene. The driver was transported to Geisinger Medical Center by the Danville Ambulance, manned by the Life Flight ground crew. One other vehicle was involved in the accident, a Mitsubish Galant slid off the snow covered roadway spun around 180 degrees and hit the end of the flatbed doing minor damage to the right front end of the vehicle. The two occupants were not injured.

- PAUL GARRETT

JC KRIESHER

Blythe Township garage fire Schuylkill County, PA. At 4:15 p.m. on February 24, Schuylkill County dispatched Kaska and Cumbola, Walker Twp. and New Philadelphia to 1120 Mountain Road at Kuperavage Coal Company in Blythe Township for a reported working commercial garage fire. New Philly Engine 5411 confirmed the working fire with smoke showing. A crosslay was stretched into the building a fire attack was initiated. Additional resources were requested from Port Carbon and Schuylkill Township. Crews found a small fire inside the building and quickly knocked it down. The incident was under control within twenty minutes.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

PAgE 27

Superstorm Sandy and storm preparations

DENNY L CLOPPER

Small fire remains on the carport area with heavy smoke.

Single story ranch fire in Newville A fire destroyed a single story ranch house on February 12th located in the 500 block of Shed Road, Lower Mifflin Township, Newville, Pa. Cumberland County 911 dispatched around 10:30 p.m. for a reported house fire.

Engine Companies 47, 48, Tanker 46, Truck 53 and EMS 47 were alerted. A large orange glow could be seen a few miles away.

Heavy fire was evident on the outside carport area moving rapidly to the inside of the home. Command 47 was established by Chief 47. The interior attack with hand lines was made.

JUMP TO FILE #021713105

Additional tankers from Companies 50 and 51 were dispatched along with Squad 54 to the scene.

Firefighters were able to knock down the bulk of the fire in about 15 minutes, with remaining hot spots to be extinguished. Crews were on the scene for about two and half hours for salvage and overhaul operations.

No one was injured during the incident.The cause of the fire was wood stove related.

Superstorm Sandy originated in the Caribbean on October 19 and slowly worked its way north along the east coast and coming ashore just above Atlantic City on October 29 and created havoc as it ravaged parts of New York, New STAYING Jersey and SAFE Connecticut on October Chief Henry Camp29 and 30. bell The destruction from this storm was astounding and in the billions of dollars in loss. It also created major hardship for the states, local municipalities, residents and businesses impacted by the hurricane.

Thousands of people were forced to evacuate their homes and leave all that they valued behind in order to flee to safety from the hurricane. In some instances, it was days before folks were permitted to return to their home or business, or what was left of them; for others it was weeks or even months before they could return.

Many homes and businesses were destroyed. Others sustained severe damage and there were those that miraculously escaped damage.

This also included various fire sta-

tions that sustained damage and the complete loss of apparatus and equipment.

There were those fire departments along the coastal areas and barrier islands that abandoned their stations and moved apparatus to higher ground, an excellent decision that saved their apparatus.

They were unable to respond with their apparatus in areas flooded with three feet or more of sea water and used boats and jet skis to get about until the flood waters subsided. The rain and winds along with the extremely high tides had done their damage and, in doing so, had spared very few, including emergency responders, some of whom also lost their homes.

Firefighters, along with other emergency responders were overburdened with calls and in many instances the inability to respond quickly, if at all. Flooded roads and downed trees, poles and wires made roads inaccessible for fire apparatus.

A few days passed before statewide mobilization brought in relief crews from across the states, allowing for rest for the local responders and giving them a chance to address the issues of storm damage to their own homes.

Yet through it all, the emergency responders were the shining light in all the destruction and mis-

ery that took place over the many days and weeks that lay ahead. No matter how well one prepares, it was almost impossible to plan for all the circumstances that were encountered during the emergency operations and response that took place throughout and after Hurricane Sandy‘s temperamental visit.

My hat is off to all the emergency responders and just ordinary citizens, who saw a need and stepped in to assist during this hurricane of the century.

A little more than a year ago, I wrote an article about storm preparedness for fire departments.

And, over the next few months will update and offer it for those who may have missed it, or can use it as a refresher and to assist in planning.

The article will review how you can prepare your fire department and station for similar type disasters, mostly weather related, that may impact your area for extended periods of time.

The larger the geographical area that is involved, the longer it will take for outside assistance to arrive and that means the longer your department will be at the forefront of disaster operations.

For sure it doesn’t cover every possible event that can happen, but it should stir discussion and is a starting point for storm preparations, planning and extended duty for all departments.

- DENNY CLOPPER

KIRK NEIDERMYER

JEFFREY GOLDBERG

Yardley firefighters respond to a reported chimney fire Lower Makefield Township, PA. Firefighters from the YardleyMakefield Fire Company were dispatched to Tactical Box 8032 for a reported chimney fire at a condominium on Danbury Court on Friday, February 22, 2013. They were dispatched at approximately 2:52 p.m.

Building collapse in Ephrata Borough Ephrata Borough, PA At around 3:45 p.m., Station 15 (Ephrata) along with Station 16 (Lincoln), Lancaster County Recuse Task Force, and multiple EMS agencies were dispatched to 400 Wenger Drive for a building collapse. Captain 15 checked up and was advised by LCWC of a building that collapsed with three patients, possibly one trapped. There were reported to be 25 people working in the building that had partially collapsed. Captain 15 arrived shortly after and confirmed the report with negative entrapment. The Rescue Task Force was recalled. Three patients were transported to local trauma centers. Crews helped stabilize some of the building and went available around 5:00 p.m.

PAGE 28

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

KIRK NEIDERMYER

Pickup crushed by tractor trailer in Gap Salisbury Township, PA. At 6:20 p.m., Station 42 was dispatched for a reported vehicle accident involving a tractor trailer. Deputy 42 was advised by LCWC of a tractor trailer versus a pickup truck. LCWC later reported that the driver of the pickup truck fled the scene. Rescue 42 and Engine 42 arrived, provided patient care and spill control. Crews assisted state police in a search for the driver. The driver was found before crews cleared in a wooded area behind some houses. Station 42 went available at around 8:00 p.m.

KIRK NEIDERMYER

Fatal crash with heavy entrapment on the Triple Deuce West Earl Township, PA. At 7:05 a.m. Stations 29 along with Rescue Company 16 were dispatched for a reported vehicle accident with two trapped on the “Triple Deuce”. Chief 29 (Stoltzfus) went enroute and was advised by LCWC of a two vehicle crash head on with two people trapped. Chief 29 confirmed. Chief 29 also requested his second due rescue company, bringing in Truck 204 (Eden). Engine 29-1 went into service with their tools. Extrication was complete minutes after arrival. The other person was a Class 4 patient upon arrival. Rescue 16 arrived and assisted with extrication. Truck 204 was later recalled. Crews cleared around 10:30 a.m.

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JASON COLEMAN-COBB

Springettsbury Township accident with entrapment Springettsbury Township, PA - On Saturday, February 2, 2013, an evening snow shower began to fall across Central Pennsylvania, creating slippery road conditions. At 5:30 p.m., York County Stations 89 and 41 were dispatched to the 4100 block of Old Orchard Road for a vehicle accident with entrapment. Companies were on location for a two vehicle accident with one passenger car into a telephone pole with two occupants entrapped. Crews went to work using various hydraulic tools and extricated the two patients in about 20 minutes. This was one of several accidents reported in the Springettsbury Township area.

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March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Page 29

Come and Help us Celebrate the

125th Anniversary of the DuBois Fire Department!

Saturday, June 15, 2013 – DuBois City Park, DuBois PA

2013 PA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BATTLE OF THE BARREL 1st Prize $3,000 2nd Place - $1,500 • 3rd Place - $1,000 • 4th Place - $500 5th Place - $500 • 6th Place - $200 • 7th Place - $200 • 8th Place - $200 Teams of 4 or 5; 3 different nozzle men per battle; Limit of first 64 teams to register Registration $50 – Refunded the day of the battle if your team shows up See below for contact information and how to get registration forms

Registration 8a.m. to 8:30a.m. Competition Begins immediately afterwards

Antique Fire Apparatus Show Open to Apparatus 1978 & Older Private & Fire Department Owned Motorized or Non-Motorized Fire Apparatus Show - 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

FAMILY

PARADE

Bring the whole family to the battle. DuBois Community Days will still be in full swing. You and your family are invited to take part in the many activities going on including: free swimming, free music concerts and free entertainment from all over the country. There will be food booths run by local non-profit organizations and many other activities for kids. Bring the whole family and enjoy the day!

At 5 p.m., the DuBois fire sirens sound, DuBois Volunteer Fire Department Firemen’s Parade will move through the streets of downtown DuBois. Then after the parade, come back to the park for more fun & entertainment and look to the sky for the world famous Zambelli’s Fireworks Display!!

BATTLE OF THE BARREL

ANTIQUE FIRE APPARATUS SHOW

For Registration form or more info, Contact Herm Suplizio

For Registration form or more info, contact Bob Zercher (814) 371-0849 • (814) 541-6215 • ALFL3153@comcast.net

(814) 371-2000 • (814) 591-5544 • hermsuplizio@hotmail.com

Community Days is a festival totally run by the DuBois Volunteer Fire Department and all vendors are non-profit organizations. We ask that you do not bring coolers, but support our local vendors by purchasing your refreshments from their booths. All entertainment is free to the general public.

PAGE 30

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

In house physical fitness training vs. off site programs FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson

I have visited my share of fire houses and have had numerous opportunities to speak with administrators and firefighters alike regarding their physical training programs.

Although some stations offer “in house” programs, others send members “off site” to train. Here is what most of those I spoke to have said.

Nearly everyone agreed that physical training should play a role in the fire service. (woo hoo, I love it!)

Most agree that “in house” programs are more desirable, but those who do not have them site initial set-up costs as well as maintenance costs as the major road blocks to instituting them. These fire departments send their members to outside facilities (gyms) to train. They feel these programs are more costeffective and require less administrative effort and upkeep on their part.

Those with “in house” programs begged to differ on the whole cost effective argument and presented the following reasons.

Many stated that although initial equipment purchase and set-up of the facility were greater at first, the costs diminished over the life of the program.

Outside memberships must be renewed annually and usually increase each year.

Many outside facilities require a minimum number of memberships be purchased and many fire departments can end up paying for more memberships than are actually being used.

Those with “off site” programs worried about liability issues and insurance costs, yet those with “in house” programs stated if members were training off site on their dime, liability could still be an issue.

They prefer training take place where they can have greater control over participation and safety. When asked about insurance costs, they explained that having an “in house” facility can save by reducing insurance premiums (compensation points) espe-

cially if the program is monitored and provides instruction and programs to strengthen members and reduce the risk of injury.

The savings on premiums can actually exceed the cost of monitoring/supervising the program. Wow! A kajor knock on “off site” programs was the fact that they decrease “in house” time.

We all know that greater ”in house” time reduces “response time”. That’s a big deal. For those departments that are volunteer, it is especially an issue.

Also, if they are off site, hopefully they will respond, but even so, valuable time is lost.

Additionally, there is little chance they will return to the outside facility to finish their workout after the alarm.

Those with “in house programs stated that firefighters, who had their workouts interrupted by alarms, often returned to finish their workout (depending on the duration and severity of the alarm).

“Off site” programs allow for very little control. They are not monitored and provide administrators with little or no feedback to their effectiveness and more importantly safety.

“In house” programs that have a good set of SOP’s ensure that all participants are medically cleared to participate, have been given proper orientation and instruction as well as personalized exercise programs.

Although these programs must be maintained and require a fitness professional, salary costs can be offset and often exceeded by a reduction in insurance premiums because of the increased safety and decreased liability.

Again, although most agreed that “in house” programs were more desirable, there are still those departments that prefer to send members “off site” for fitness training.

To determine which program is right for your department, (volunteer or paid), examine the points we discussed.

Consult with a fitness professional and your insurance company as well as your membership to find the best fit for your department.

Keep training and stay safe!

AppArAtus For sAle 2012 Rescue 1, Mass Care Response Unit (MCRU) available for immediate delivery. 22’-4” Walk-Around/Spartan Metro Star MFD six-man seating w/10” raised roof and Cummins ISC 330 hp engine. PTO 25 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower (1) 200’- 10/4 cable reel, (2) 750 FRC tripod portable lights, cab storage cabinet, climate-controlled storage medical compartment and much more. Tag on bid/purchase $334,166.00.

For additional details visit www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.

FOR SALE - 1992 E-ONE ENGINE Allison Auto Transmission, 1250 GPM Hale Pump Cummins 300HP Engine. 750 Gallon Poly Tank.

24,000 Miles • 10,500 Hours • Very Well Maintained $45,000 For more info contact: Chief Lester Wolcott 570-656-2217 or Lt. David Koerner 570-872-7694

2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery.

18’-9” Walk-Around/Spartan MFD six man seating w/10” raised roof and Cummins ISL 450 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, hydraulic full lift-up stairs to (4) upper storage compartments, (2) 200’- 10/4 cable reels and much more.

For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.

2006 Ford E-450 Super Duty Medtec Ambulance

- LORI HODGKINSON

92,000 miles • Asking $19,750 6.0 Liter Diesel Engine • Auto Transmission For additional info contact Bill or Ray at 518-885-1478 Email: Ray.Otten@Communityemergencycorps.org

For Sale First Priority Renaissance Horton Type III Ambulance on a Ford E 450 Gasoline Chassis.

New Electrical System, New Interior LED Lighting, New Exterior Emergency LED Lighting, Plus much more...

Call us at 800-247-7725 for additional information. $95,000 Ford Government Pricing Concession discounts available on these units, as applicable.

2008 Ford F-450 4x4 cab and chassis Ambulance 55,000 miles • Asking $75,000 Ford 6.4 liter Powerstroke V8 turbo diesel Well maintained - complete records available For additional info contact Bill or Ray at 518-885-1478 Email: Ray.Otten@Communityemergencycorps.org

2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery.

16’-3” Walk-Around/International 4400 four-door chassis, fiveman seating, and MaxxForce 9/315 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, fold down ladder to (4) upper storage compartments, 9000 lb portable winch and much more.

For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.

2003 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD Odyssey First Responder EMS Unit Includes Whelen LED light package Clean, well maintained, LOW mileage $52,476 Professionally built unit. Call Deputy Chief Matt Howard at 203-879-4122 x 21 for more info.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

March, 2013

PAgE 31

US Fire Administration releases 2012 firefighter fatality statistics

KIRK NEIDERMYER

Second alarm destroys business in West Earl Township West Earl Township, PA. At 1:13 a.m. on February 20th, Station 29’s first alarm assignment was struck for a reported building fire.

Deputy 29 was advised by LCWC of a reported working building fire at the same location around 4:00 p.m. the day before.

Deputy 29 arrived to a working fire with flames through the roof and requested his second alarm. He also assumed the command.

Engine 29-1 hit the plug across the street to establish their own water supply. Tanker 29 also deployed multiple lines. Engine 29-1 deployed multiple handlines to begin fire suppression. Engine 24-1

JUMP TO FILE #022013103

hit another plug at Stone Quarry Rd. Truck 204 began master stream operations.

Porta tank operations were also setup at Oregon Pike and Stone Quarry Road. Engine 24-2 and Engine 12-2 setup a fill site a local park. Deputy 35 had the water supply. Deputy 35 requested five additional tankers to the scene. Air 61 filled air cylinders. Manpower staging was setup in front of Engine 291. Rescue 16 took the RIT assignment.

Martin’s Mulch was called to the scene to provide their track hoe service to tear apart the building.

Penndot was called to scene for icy road conditions.

The fire was placed under control at 3:11a.m. No injuries were reported. All units cleared at 5:30 a.m.

Companies assisting West Earl were Rothsville, Farmersville, Manheim Township Fire Rescue, Ephrata, Lincoln, Garden Spot Fire Rescue, Martindale, Upper Leacock, Akron, Witmer, Weaverland Valley, Bird In Hand, Durlach-Mt. Airy, Stevens and Leola Ambulance.

Emmitsburg, MD. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) announced today a provisional total of 83 on-duty firefighter fatalities in the United States as a result of incidents that occurred in 2012, the same number of firefighter losses as in 2011.

The 83 fatalities were spread across 34 states. Pennsylvania and North Carolina experienced the highest number of fatalities with nine firefighter deaths each.

New York had six firefighter deaths, including the most recent tragic shooting deaths of two firefighters in Webster. California and Texas, each with five firefighter deaths, were the only other states with five or more firefighter fatalities in 2012.

Heart attacks or stroke were responsible for the deaths of 41 firefighters (49%) in 2012.

This single year total is a near average proportion of firefighter deaths from heart attack or stroke

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over recent years.

This nature of fatal injury has remained relatively constant, while others, on average, have been reduced during the past decade.

Eleven on-duty firefighters died in association with wildland fires, the same as 2011 and 2010.

The single cause of injury seeing more than a four-fold increase in firefighter deaths during 2012 was vehicle collisions (including aircraft), with 18 deaths.

These 2012 firefighter fatality statistics are provisional and will likely change somewhat as the USFA contacts state fire marshals to verify the names of firefighters reported to have died on duty during 2012.

The final number of firefighter fatalities will be reported in USFA's annual firefighter fatality report, expected to be available

by July.

- US Fire Administration

- KIRK NEIDERMYER

PAGES Call Today For A Free Estimate!

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Our firm seeks experienced individuals for PT positions in the following states: ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA Candidates with previous insurance experience, home inspection or firefighting background preferred to perform commercial and residential insurance inspections. Forward resume to: NEIS, Inc., Attn: Lee Surridge, 908 So. Meriden Rd., Cheshire, CT 06410. Fax: 203-271-7921 or email: lsurridge@neis1.com.

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PAGE 32

March, 2013

1st Responder Newspaper - PA