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FIRE RIPS THROUGH TWO HOMES IN CITY OF DUQUESNE
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
City of Duquesne, PA – At 11:22 A.M. on April 7th, fire units were dispatched to South 7th Street in the City of Duquesne for a report of smoke coming from the back door of a vacant home. Police arrived on-scene and reported a home heavily involved. - See full story on page 4
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Woolsey Fire, November 8, 2018
ADVERTISER INDEX
A guide to finding great companies
Company
1st Out Specialty Veh.
Page 43
911 Rapid Response
33
Campbell Supply Co.
1,48
Armor Tuff Flooring CILS Incorporated
15
22
Fire Flow Services
17
Firehouse Expo
Fire Line Equipment
Fouts Bros Fire Equip. Glick Fire Equipment
30 31 7
27
23
Hoffman Radio Network
25
Kaler Motor Company
22
Hy-Viz Inc.
Kimtek Corporation
47 9
Marco Equipment Sales Mid Atlantic Rescue
5
45
Ray’s Pagers
16
Waterway
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Fire Damages Lincoln Boro Home
Lincoln Boro, PA – At 12:16 P.M. on March 26th, firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire located on Finney Road in Lincoln Boro. Police arrived on-scene and reported smoke showing from the home. Lincoln's Assistant Chief went on-scene and assumed command as arriving crews went to work. Crews found a working fire in the basement of the home and quickly knocked the fire down. A second-alarm was requested as crews continued to check for extension. Crews stayed on-scene for over an hour performing overhaul and ventilation. No injuries were reported and the fire is under investigation.
3
NY Chiefs Show The Fire Store
Video reviews by John Malecky
41
Command Fire App. Fire Expo 2019
VIDEO REVIEW
11
Woolsey Fire November 8, 2018 Alan Simmons Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price $12.95 (DVD)
This DVD is 47 minutes in length. It is footage of a fire that was reported at 2:24 P.M. in the Woolsey Canyon near the boundary line of Ventura and Los Angeles Counties in California. Pushed by Santa Ana winds of between 50 to 70 mph, it spread close to 100,000-acres in less than two days, causing three fatalities and destroying 1,643 structures. High winds, very low relative humidity, water problems and a heavy accumulation of drought stricken fuel attributed to this massive fire. It was fought by 3,242 firefighters from strike
teams throughout California and the western states. The fire coverage is not narrated except for faceto-face communications between firefighters. There are skips to different sections as there are many close ups of the operations. Except for the absence of heat and smoke, you are there! You are there amongst burning structures, autos, power lines and vegetation. A number of restaurants that used to be and are gone for the time being can be viewed. Heavy streams, handlines and chopper drops all lent to the defeat of “red devil.” In the many years that I have been reviewing videos for this newspaper, I have never seen such heartbreaking footage of homes and neighborhoods, many of which were in affluent areas. There are scenes from specific sections, none of which I can relate to since I am not a westerner, but nevertheless show devastating destruction. A segment towards the end of the coverage is entitled “The Day After”, highlighting a large host of scenes and the appearance of wartime bombings in some respects. Day and night coverage is included in this valiant fight, some of which was daylight obscured by heavy smoke, giving the appearance of night!
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.
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DANIEL WADE
Man Pinned in Vehicle After Crash in Reading Reading, PA - On the evening of Friday, March 22nd, the Berks County DES communications center received a phone call reporting a car accident at Marion and Mulberry Streets. Firefighters from Engine 9 and Ladder 3 made the swing onto Marion Street from their quarters and observed a vehicle on its side from two blocks away. When units arrived they found the driver partially pinned under a rolled SUV. Firefighters used hydraulic tools to free the injured driver from the vehicle. The victim, who was suffering from an arterial bleed, was stabilized and transported to Reading Hospital Trauma Center. Firefighters were able to extricate the victim in 14 minutes.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Fort Indiantown Gap Fire Department, located in Lebanon County, PA.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Fire Rips Through Two Homes in City of Duquesne City of Duquesne, PA – At 11:22 A.M. on April 7th, fire units were dispatched to South 7th Street in the City of Duquesne for a report of smoke coming from the back door of a vacant home. Police arrived on-scene and reported a home heavily involved. Duquesne's Fire JUMP TO FILE# Chief arrived and 040819134 immediately requested a secondalarm. Duquesne Truck 133 arrived on-scene and took a hydrant, however, the hydrant was bad. Command requested Duquesne Annex Rescue 294 to pick up a secondary hydrant and lay in to Truck 133. Once a water supply was established, crews began to attack the fire. As crews worked to knock down the fire, an occupied home next to the original fire began pushing heavy smoke from the attic area. Crews made entry into the exposure and found heavy fire conditions in the attic. Crews were forced to evacuate the main fire building due to heavy fire conditions at one point. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews were able to re-enter the original home and continue to battle the fire. Crews remained on-scene for several hours before the fire was finally brought under control. No one was injured, but one person was left homeless. The fire is now under investigation.
Crews arrived to find heavy fire from this vacant home in Duquesne on April 7th.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
- ERIC RASMUSSEN
Read more stories on our website! 1rbn.com Fire begins to show from the exposure home.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Iowa: Eric M. Hosette, 33 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: January 5, 2019 Death Date: January 5, 2019 Fire Department: Clinton Fire Department Initial Summary: At 5:45 a.m., the Clinton Fire Department’s on-duty crew responded to a reported smoldering fire in a silo storage bin at Archer-Daniels-Midland loading facility. At 7:00 a.m., the scene was handed off to the next crew coming on-duty which included Lieutenant Eric Hosette. Nearly two hours later at 8:45 a.m., Hosette was injured in an explosion at the scene. Hosette was transported to Mercy Medical Center where, despite all efforts, he passed away. A second firefighter was critically injured during the explosion but survived. New York: Steven H. Pollard, 30 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: January 6, 2019 Death Date: January 6, 2019 Fire Department: Fire Department New York City Initial Summary: Firefighter Steven Pollard arrived with the Fire Department of New York City’s Ladder Co. 170 at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on the Belt Parkway, just east of Flatbush Avenue. As he was assisting at the scene, Pollard fell through a gap dividing the eastbound and westbound lanes of an overpass bridge and plummeted 52 feet to the ground. Pollard was transported to Kings County Hospital where he passed away a short time later from the critical injuries he sustained in the fall. Tennessee: Jason Byrd, 42 Rank: District Chief (Station 14) Incident Date: February 18, 2019 Death Date: February 18, 2019 Fire Department: Fayette County Fire Department Initial Summary: District Chief (Station 14) Jason Byrd suffered an apparent heart attack while at the scene of a residential structure fire. Within 15 seconds of the medical emergency, responders administered advanced life support measures to Byrd and then transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Alabama: Brenden Pierce, 21 Rank: Firefighter
Incident Date: February 20, 2019 Death Date: February 23, 2019 Fire Department: Palmerdale Fire District Initial Summary: On 02/19/19, Firefighter Brenden Pierce started his shift at the Palmerdale Fire District, Station 3. During this shift at approximately 12:30 a.m. on 02/20/2019, Pierce suffered a medical emergency after responding to a weather-related call. He was immediately transported to the Grandview Medical Center where he was declared brain dead on 02/20/2019. Because Pierce was an organ donor, his organs were transplanted to multiple recipients over the next few days. Pierce’s official date of death was 02/23/2019.
Massachusetts: Thomas Nye, 72 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: February 26, 2019 Death Date: February 27, 2019 Fire Department: Marion Fire Department Initial Summary: On 02/26/2019, Firefighter Thomas Nye helped extinguish a residential chimney fire and then returned home. He collapsed early the next morning on 02/27/2019 after suffering an apparent cardiac incident. Nye was transported to Tobey Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Maine: Joel Barnes, 32 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 1, 2019 Death Date: March 1, 2019 Fire Department: Berwick Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain Joel Barnes was one of five firefighters who went into a three-story apartment building to fight a four-alarm fire. While inside the structure, conditions rapidly worsened. Three of the firefighters were able to escape. Barnes and one other firefighter became trapped in a room of a third-floor apartment. While waiting to be rescued, Barnes reportedly used his body to shield the other firefighter from the intense fire. Upon rescue, Barnes was unresponsive, and EMTs and other colleagues immediately performed life-saving measures on him. Barnes was then transported to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital where he was pronounced deceased from the injuries he sustained. The four other firefighters were treated and released by Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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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.
Ronks Fire-Rescue operates this 2017 Seagrave Attacker HD walkin style rescue with Hurst extrication equipment as Rescue 48. DALE FEEHRER
FRANKLIN FIRE CO. STATION 4
Franklin Fire Co.’s Assistant Chief Dave Olson arrived shortly after dispatch to find heavy smoke and flames showing from a detached garage to the rear of 1782 Gabler Rd.
Blaze Destroys Three-Car Garage in Hamilton Township Mifflin County's Junction Fire Co. operates this 2016 KME Predator with 1500/750 as Rescue 15-1. DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Paxtang Fire Co. operates this 2010 Pierce Arrow XT (1500/500/50BF) as Engine 40.
DALE FEEHRER
Strasburg Fire Co. No. 1 operates this 2008 Pierce Arrow XT PUC (1500/500/75') quint, designated as Truck 5.
DALE FEEHRER
Hamilton Twp., PA - On the morning of March 23rd, crews from the Franklin Fire Co. responded for a working garage fire in Hamilton Township. Franklin County 911 received the call around 4:00 A.M. that morning reporting a structure fire on Howard Street. Franklin Fire Co. was quickly alerted along with several other departments due on Box 44-09. Franklin continued to receive calls reporting flames showing as units responded on the box. Franklin Fire Co.’s Assistant Chief Dave Olson arrived shortly after dispatch to find heavy smoke and flames showing from a detached garage to the rear of 1782 Gabler Road. Assistant Chief Olson immediately requested the Working Fire dispatch and established Command. Franklin Engine 43 arrived directly after Assistant Chief Olson and quickly dropped a supply line down Howard Street from Gabler Road. Firefighters quickly deployed an attack line off of Engine 43 as the officer onboard conducted a 360 walk-around to assess the scene for command. Firefighters were faced with a three-car garage with heavy fire conditions. Crews had no immediate exposure issues and were able to concentrate on the main fire building, knocking down a bulk of the flames within 10 minutes of their arrival on the scene. Firefighters continued to battle the flames from the exterior in a defensive mode due to the instability of the structure. Firefighters worked to thor-
JUMP TO FILE #032919122 oughly extinguish the blaze, which was deemed under control by Command around 4:52 A.M. that morning. The house, which was approximately 50-feet away, was undamaged. The garage and its contents were a total loss, but no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The cause of the blaze has not been released at this time. Over 45 firefighters between Franklin and Cumberland Counties responded to the early morning blaze. Franklin Fire Co. (Station 4) responded on the call, receiving assistance from New Franklin Vol. Fire Co. (Co.17), Chambersburg FD (Co.1), Marion Vol. FD (Co.8),
Fayetteville Fire & EMS (Co.7), St. Thomas Vol. Fire Co. (Co.18), Mercersburg’s M.M.P.W. Vol. Fire Co. (Co.9), and Mont Alto Vol. Fire Co. (Co.5), as well as crews from Cumberland Valley Hose Co. (Air 53). Additional assistance was received that evening from West End Fire & Rescue (Co.15), Cumberland County’s Vigilant Hose Co. (Co.52), Cumberland Valley Hose Co. (Truck 53), Adams County’s Buchanan Valley Fire Co. (Co.27), and Washington County Maryland’s Leitersburg Vol. Fire Co. (Co.9), who supplied transfer crews to cover the area while units were committed on the call. - WILLIAM KING
DENNY CLOPPER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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Major Fire Destroys Business and Multiple Homes in Ashland Ashland, PA – At 3:34 A.M. on Sunday, March 25th, Schuylkill County 9-1-1 sent a first-alarm assignment to 100 West Center Street in Ashland for a reported structure fire. The fire was reported in the area of M&M Sandwich Shop. Fire Districts 38 (Ashland) and 45 (Girardville) were due on the call. JUMP TO FILE# The first re- 032519100 sponding chief advised that he had fire visible from uptown. Chief 38 arrived on scene shortly after dispatch and immediately requested a second-alarm. Within seconds of requesting the second-alarm, a thirdalarm was requested. The second and third alarms brought in apparatus from Mount Carmel (Anthracite), Englewood, Altamont, Shenandoah (Columbia & Rescue Hook and Ladder), Gordon, Mahanoy City (Tower & RIT), and Wilburton. Crews arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the street side of a row of homes with M&M Sandwich Shop attached at the 'A/B' corner. Engine 38-10 was directed to the rear of the row where they found heavy fire showing. Chief 38 requested a tanker task force to the scene to supplement the municipal water supply. Tankers from Aristes, Shenandoah, Fountain Springs, Lavelle, Gordon, Ringtown, Numidia and Beaverdale responded. Engine 38-15 and Ladder 38-25 took the 'A' side while 45-10 secured a water supply at the 'A/B' corner. Master streams were immediately placed in service from the deck guns of the engines while lines were being stretched. Heavy smoke continued to push from all sides of the building as second and third-alarm crews were sent in to the western exposures to check for extension. Ladder 64-25 and Northumberland Ladder 2 positioned on the 'A' side and sent their personnel to open the roof. Fire began to blow out of the 'B' side from the rear of the sub shop as thick brown smoke continued to pour from the first floor in the middle of the row on the 'A' side. A line was stretched onto the porch of the sub shop and Englewood firefighters began to knock down the fire from the doorway. Fire then shot through the roof of the back of the shop. A master stream was initiated from 64-25 and Mahanoy City Tower 48-20 was brought in to the 'B' side. Crews were able to open up a western exposure and stop the fire. Smoke was still pouring from the middle of the row when a MAYDAY was transmitted. A firefighter fell through the floor and was suspended in the air. The firefighter was quickly able to make it to safety and the MAYDAY was cancelled. Another firefighter also fell through a floor and suffered a minor injury. During the fire fight, the temperature was in the 20’s, creating ice
Smokes pushes from all sides of the M&M Sandwich Shop on Center St. in Ashland as the glow from fire shines from the roof area. The fire escalated to over three alarms and a tanker task force before being knocked down.
JC KRIESHER
all over the scene. A firefighter on the 'C' side slipped on the ice and suffered an injury, requiring transport to the hospital. Bystanders also stated that at least one civilian was taken away by ambulance. With the unstable building conditions and poor smoke conditions,
master stream operations were set up on 48-20 and Ladder 2. Massive amounts of water were dumped onto the building as a main portion of the roof collapsed into the building. By 6:00 A.M., smoke was still rising from the buildings and the master streams were still pouring
water. Firefighters on the ground began to break down the majority of the small hand lines. Second and third-alarm companies began to be released around 7:00 A.M., with the ladders remaining on scene into the morning. Ashland and Girardville crews remained on scene
Ashland Engine 38-10 uses the deck gun in an attempt to control the flames from the rear of the row.
into the afternoon. The American Red Cross was on the scene assisting approximately eight displaced residents. According to radio reports, four homes and the business received extensive damage. - JC KRIESHER
JC KRIESHER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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The Meaning of Easter Chaplain’s Corner
Pastor Fernando Villicana
A Sunday School teacher once asked her class to write one sentence on “What Easter Means to Me.” One student wrote: Egg salad sandwiches for the next two weeks! Don’t let this Easter be just another busy time of eggs and bunnies while missing the true meaning of it all. After having said that however, I don’t see any harm in enjoying a few of the traditional add-ons to the holiday that may not come under the category of religion. There are BBQ’s, Easter egg hunts with the kids and a time for family to spend time together. My whole family enjoys a traditional dinner together. But have you ever wondered what bunny rabbits and colored eggs have to do with the resurrection of Jesus? The short answer is - nothing. The longer answer is that rabbits and eggs were both symbols of springtime and new life in many ancient cultures. Christians intentionally choose to establish a replacement. Early Christians then adopted the eggs as symbols of new life and birth. The bottom line is that we are annually reminded that 2000 years ago Jesus Christ rose from the grave and changed the world!
But, let me ask you - what difference does Easter make? How does it impact the way you live your life on a daily basis? Even people who believe Jesus rose from the grave on the third day sometimes have difficulty connecting the dots to their daily lives. So whether you are a follower of Christ or are still examining His claims, I want to invite you to travel back with me to that first Easter morning, Resurrection Sunday. A time when Jesus (after his death and burial) appeared to his faithful followers. I invite you to explore the significance of the resurrection and the difference it can make in your life. TEXT: John 20:19-22, 30-31 (NIV) On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. …But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. Easter is so much more than candy, colored eggs and cartoon bunnies. Easter is the cornerstone of the Christian faith; the celebration of Jesus rising from the grave, conquering death and giving us 1) peace with God, 2) a purpose for life and the promise of heaven. That’s what Easter is really all about.
DID YOU K NOW
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RAINMAN14
One Extricated in Car Vs. Box Truck MVA in East Vincent Twp.
East Vincent Twp., PA - At approximately 5:50 P.M. on April 1st, Liberty Fire Co. Station 63 out of Spring City, along with Royersford FD Rescue 98 and MICU 83 were dispatched to an auto accident in front of 399 Schuylkill Rd. in East Vincent Township. As Rescue 63 went en route, Chester DES re-alerted the dispatched companies that the call was upgraded to an auto accident with entrapment. Crews arrived to find a two-car crash involving a box truck that t-boned a sedan. Crews from Station 63 assessed the scene and started working on the driver's side doors. Montgomery Rescue 98 arrived and sent manpower to Rescue 63 to assist with extrication. Crews from Rescue 63, Engine 63 and Rescue 98 worked on removing both driver's side doors, as well as the 'B' post to remove the patient. Fire police closed the road heading southbound and sent northbound traffic through the parking lot of Spring City Plaza. Chief 63 marked the extrication complete at 6:11 P.M. As EMS transported the patient firefighters disconnected the battery from the car. Equipment was picked up and crews went available by 6:30 P.M.
FIRE EQUIPMENT If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Fire Equipment” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
If a fire breaks out, you might not be able to find the exit even if you’ve lived there for years since smoke can be extremely disorienting. Memorize your escape plan beforehand and practice it blindfolded. CUMRU TWP. FD
The Cedar Top Fire Company of Cumru Township owned this 1970 Mack/1959 Freuhauf 5,200-gallon tank trailer. Company members fabricated much of the company's equipment, including this water sprayer for field operations.
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May, 2019
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Four-Alarm Fire Destroys 30 Apartments in McCandless Twp. McCandless Twp., PA – At 9:26 A.M. on April 11th, Allegheny County 911 dispatched fire units to the Durham Court Apartments located along Babcock Blvd. in the Town of McCandless for a reported deck on fire. Peebles 188 Fire Chief re- JUMP TO FILE# sponded to his sta- 041219100 tion and notified dispatch that it was a working fire and requested a secondalarm. Peebles 188 Deputy Chief then arrived onscene reporting a fire in the center apartment, fully involved with extension going into the 'Bravo' side, and assumed command. The second-alarm was dispatched at 9:32 A.M. Command then notified dispatch that there was an unknown status of victims and that crews should prepare for primary searches. Command then requested 188 Truck to come in on the 'Delta' side to set up for defensive operations as the roof was now fully involved. Arriving crews were quickly given assignments and went to work. Crews encountered heavy fire inside on the 'Charlie' side of the building and began to attack the flames. Search crews helped several people to balconies to be rescued as crews continued to attack the fire. A third-alarm was requested at 9:53 A.M. At 10:06 A.M., Command reported that they had heavy fire throughout the entire structure and were in a defensive mode with towers and were still conducting searches. Two additional truck companies were also requested. As crews continued to search, a roof collapse occurred and the interior crew reported that they were unsure if they were the last crew out. A Mayday was then called. All firefighters were evacuated for a PAR check and a fourth-alarm was requested at 10:13 A.M. Shortly after the Mayday was issued, all interior crews were found safe and accounted for. Crews then re-entered the building for secondary searches and to continue the fire attack. The fire was finally placed under control just after 11:00 A.M. While crews continued to finish secondary searches, several pets that were still alive were found on the third-floor of the building and brought outside. Crews stayed on scene for several more hours to perform overhaul.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
- ERIC RASMUSSEN
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
NABC DALE FEEHRER
Mt. Joy's Engine 75-1, a 2005 Seagrave (2000/500/20f), is shown here after just arriving at a reported house fire.
TERRY RITZ
Hereford Fire Co. Tanker 58 in action at a dwelling fire in the township.
KEN SNYDER
Hecktown's engine in service at a mutual aid townhouse fire in Bath, 1/1/19.
Local First Responders Learn New Rescue Skills through NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™) Program Lansdale, PA - More than 40 first responders from Pennsylvania and New Jersey fire departments, along with local EMS providers, gathered on March 23rd for a demonstration of the latest techniques in emergency vehicle extrication, preparing them to provide the best response for car accident victims in the region, all thanks to the National Auto Body Council F.R.E.E.™ program and JL Freed Honda. In crashes where minutes can spell the difference between life and death, first responders to the accident scene need up to date information so they can act quickly and safely! Knowing specifically where and how to efficiently cut, pry and extricate can make the difference in saving precious minutes and lives, as well as the safety of the first responders. Keeping first responders up to date on the latest new technology in vehicles is a challenge for every local fire department. The NABC First Responder Emergency Extrication program (F.R.E.E.™) helps first responders stay abreast of the rapid changes in vehicle design. Highstrength steel, airbags, advanced restraint systems, onboard tech-
JUMP TO FILE #040319103 nology and safety around alternative fuel vehicles are all covered in the program. The growing popularity of high-voltage hybrid and electric vehicles, and the many safety concerns surrounding these vehicles, makes this program a necessity. Alternative fuel systems present different challenges when first responders arrive at the scene of an accident. Electric cars, hybrid cars and natural gas vehicles have fuel systems that pose dangers for first responders if need arises to cut or pry the vehicle for rescue. JL Freed Honda at 2001 N Broad St., Lansdale, PA hosted first responders from Pennsylvania and New Jersey at the special NABC F.R.E.E.™ instruction program to help ensure regional drivers have the best prepared response in case of an accident. State Farm, Allstate and JL Freed Honda provided the vehicles, Hurst Tools and MES supplied the classroom education and extrication demonstration. Other partners included North Montco Technical Career Center who pro-
vided a catered luncheon, Rental World Lansdale who donated tables and chairs, and Forge Gate towing who aided in staging the vehicles and cleanup. ABOUT THE NATIONAL AUTO BODY COUNCIL: The National Auto Body Council is the premier organization of collision industry partners dedicated to strategic networking opportunities that positively change lives in the communities we serve. The collaborative membership of the National Auto Body Council has gifted more than 2,000 vehicles, provided extrication opportunities for over 1,000 First Responders and contributed to thousands of distracted driving pledges in communities through NABC Recycled Rides™ First Responder Emergency Extrication (F.R.E.E.™) and the Distracted Driving Initiative. That effort equates to a 4:1 ROI in dollar value delivered from NABC membership dollars. The National Auto Body Council is changing the paradigm of how the collision industry works and is viewed. For more information, visit www.NationalautoBodyCouncil.org. - NABC
JC KRIESHER
Ashland Rescue 3850 on the scene of a multiple-alarm fire in Ashland.
NABC
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
PAGE 15
Vehicle News
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
The Witmer Fire Protection Association has taken delivery of this 2019 Pierce Enforcer (1500/500) Pumper, designated as Engine 62-1 in Lancaster County.
JASON BATZ
The Reading FD recently took delivery of this 2008 Ford F-250 with a new 100-GPM Darley skid unit. Designated as Brush 1, it will run from Engine 7's quarters.
Quentin VFC has taken delivery of this 2019 KME Panther. Engine 37 will operate with a 1250-GPM pump and 1,000-gallon tank. The piece will also carry an assortment of TNT and Halmatro extrication tools.
The Franklin Fire Co. of Chambersburg has taken delivery of this 2019 Pierce Enforcer PUC (1500/500/Holmatro), designated as Squad 41.
The Nashville VFD has taken delivery of this 2019 Kenworth/Sutphen (1500/3841) tanker, designated as York County Tanker 11.
The Goodwill Fire Co. of Myerstown has taken delivery of this 2019 Western Star/Alexis (1250/3000) tanker, designated as Lebanon County Tanker 30.
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PAGE 16
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
"My name is JR Slifer and I run with Richlandtown Fire Company in Pennsylvania. I've been in the fire service for 15 years. I'm currently the Vice President of the company and a Fire Police Officer. I have a half sleeve of St. Florian and a fire scene underneath, representing my service and dedication to the community."
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes
For many Americans, funding the down payment necessary to realize a dream of home ownership simply is not possible; and squirreling away the dollars to do so on a limited budget could mean several years of renting and waiting to buy a house. In some cases, first responders and other community service employees have trouble affording homes in the areas where they work. With a purchase as big as buying a home, a little help can go a long way. The Advantage Program, introduced to the Heroes Mortgage platform by eLEND, helps hometown heroes like police officers, volunteer and paid firefighters, EMS workers, medical professionals and educators purchase a home within the community where they work, even in high-cost areas. The unique down payment assistance program was specifically designed for those who make a difference in other people’s lives, as well as first time home buyers. “The Heroes Mortgage platform helps connect members of the emergency services community with lenders that are specifically interested in working with them,” said Joseph P. Belsito, publisher of 1st Responder Newspaper. “The Advantage Program created by eLEND is exactly what makes the Heroes Mortgage Pro-
“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform. It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”
- BILL PACKER Executive Vice President eLEND
gram a valuable resource for heroes in our community looking for home financing.” Grant provides help to homebuyers Many buyers wait patiently on the sidelines, saving money and watching interest rates rise. Unlike many other home buying assistance programs, eLEND’s Advantage Program provides a grant for the down pay-
ment. These resources can immediately build a borrower’s buying power, helping them act on a purchase more quickly for either that first home, or a move-up home as the family has grown and needs more space. Qualified buyers can receive grants up to 2% of the purchase price, minimizing the
down payment dollars needed at closing. The grant is “forgivable” so it doesn’t have to be paid back, and there are no resale or borrower repayment restrictions. In the state of Wisconsin, appraisal cost (up to $700) is credited back at closing. This program is not yet available in Hawaii or Washington. To qualify, a borrower need only meet one of the following very flexible requirements: a current, retired, volunteer or professional first responder (police officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.), educator, medical personnel, civil servant or military personnel, or a first-time homebuyer or meet certain income requirements. “We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform,” said Bill Packer, executive vice president of eLEND, a division of American Financial Resources, Inc. “It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.” For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
PAGE 19
CHRIS KELLEY
CHERYL YEAGER "PHOTO 17"
CHRIS KELLEY
First Field Fire of Spring for George’s Twp.
George's Twp., PA - The first multiple-alarm field fire of Spring for George's Township occurred on April 3rd at 2:15 P.M., at an old coal mining patch called York Run. York Run used to be the biggest coal mining patch in all of Fayette County, but is now just a small village surrounded by a whole lot of brush. The area affected by the fire took nearly four hours to contain. All surrounding volunteer fire companies responded to the call. Residents of George's Twp. would like to thank all who responded to the emergency call, and for responding to all other emergency calls in their township.
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.
KEN SNYDER
Brush 1961 of the Upper Milford Western District Fire Company No. 1 in Old Zionsville uses this 1977 Jeep.
Firefighters on Box 17-7 arrive to find heavy fire conditions on side 'Bravo' in Guilford Twp.
House Fire in Guilford Township Ruled Accidental Guilford Twp., PA - On the morning of March 14th, volunteers from the New Franklin Fire Co. were alerted for a house fire at 2656 Falling Spring Road in Guilford Township. Franklin County 911 received multiple calls that morning reporting a house on fire. New Franklin was alerted for the call with multiple other departments due on Box 17-7 at 1:14 A.M. that morning. As units were responding, Franklin County 911 received additional calls reporting that one of the occupants was on the roof of the garage. Dispatchers immediately started an additional ambulance and advised units of the updated report of possible entrapments. Fayetteville FD’s Assistant Chief Cole Bumbaugh was the first unit to arrive and confirmed heavy fire showing from side 'Bravo' of the structure. Franklin County confirmed that New Franklin’s Chief Ralph Yeager, Jr. was direct on his report and immediately started the Working Fire dispatch. Assistant Chief Bumbaugh was able to assess the scene, confirming that all occupants were out of the structure and that they were faced with a two-story, single-family dwelling with heavy fire conditions on Division I of the structure. New Franklin’s Chief Yeager along with Engine 17-1 and Chambersburg Engine 1-4 arrived shortly after Assistant Chief Bumbaugh, quickly dropping a supply line to establish a
JUMP TO FILE #032719105 water supply. Firefighters from New Franklin and Chambersburg quickly deployed their attack lines as Chief Yeager established Command 17. Firefighters conducted an aggressive attack on the blaze under the direction of Chief Dustin Ulrich, who was appointed to supervise the fire attack. Firefighters were able to get a significant knock on the blaze within 10 minutes of their arrival on the scene. Firefighters were committed on the scene for nearly three hours that morning conducting extensive overhaul operations and assisting with the investigation. Crews battling the blaze were faced with an exterior fire with moderate extension into the living room area of the home. The early morning blaze caused significant smoke and heat damage to the firstfloor of the home, along with smoke damage to the second-floor. Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained mostly to the first-floor area with minor extension into the second-floor above the fire area. Investigators from the Pennsylvania State Fire Marshal’s Office were able to determine that the cause of the fire was accidental in nature, as a result of improperly discarded smoking material. Three occupants that were home at the time of the blaze were
initially trapped in the home but were able to escape out of a secondstory window onto the roof of the garage. They were able to get to safety prior to fire department's arrival on the scene. All three occupants were evaluated on the scene by Fayetteville EMS crews and were later transported to Chambersburg Hospital for further treatment of injuries sustained during the incident. No other injuries were reported as a result of the blaze. Over 45 emergency personnel responded on the call that morning. New Franklin V.F.D. (Co.17) responded on the 17 Box, receiving assistance from Chambersburg FD (Co.1), Franklin Fire Co. (Station 4), Fayetteville Vol. Fire & EMS (Co.7), Mont Alto FD (Co.5), Marion V.F.C. (Co.8), Greencastle’s Rescue Hose Co. (Co.3), Letterkenny Army Depot FD (Co.13), Franklin Air 10, and Adams County’s Buchanan Valley Fire (Co.27). Additional units from West End Fire Co. (Co.15), Cumberland County’s Vigilant Hose (Co.52), Cumberland County’s South Newton Twp. V.F.C. (Co.49), Washington County Maryland’s Longmeadow Fire Co. (Co.27) and Washington County Maryland’s Leitersburg V.F.C. (Co.9) also responded with personnel, transferring units to cover the area while crews were committed on the scene. - WILLIAM KING
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
CHUCK LOWE
The Falls Twp. FD operated this 1999 Seagrave 100' rear-mount aerial until 2016 when it was replaced by a 2016 Seagrave Tower Ladder. The '99 unit was sold to Newington, New Hampshire.
FRANK ROBINSON
Lancaster City once ran this 1973 Mack 75' Aerialscope. The unit is now privately owned.
TERRY RITZ
Commercial Building Fire in Upper Hanover Twp. Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Friday, April 5th at 6:24 A.M., East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to a commercial building fire alarm on Blommer Drive in the township. Upon arrival, Deputy Chief 38 called Montgomery County Radio and confirmed that he was on location and investigating. Within seconds he notified County Radio to have them upgrade the assignment, as
JUMP TO FILE #040519104 he had a confirmed fire. Several fire companies from the immediate area responded with apparatus and manpower, and the fire was brought under control within 20 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for about one hour. There were no injuries re-
ported and the cause of the fire is pending the outcome of the investigation. Assisting East Greenville were Pennsburg, Red Hill, Green Lane and Hereford fire companies. EMS units from Upper Perk and Harleysville, as well as fire police from East Greenville, Pennsburg and Hereford also responded. - TERRY RITZ
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services� feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Juniata County Air 48 of the Fayette Twp. Fire Co. is a 1988 Mack MC/Saulsbury that originally served Patterson, NY.
DALE FEEHRER
This 1980 Mack MC (1000/500) formally served the Winburne Fire Co. as Engine 18. It's now owned by a construction outfit used along with screen/sifting machine.
JEFF LECOMPTE
Reading Firefighters from Medic 4 arrive for a dwelling fire at 1323 Cotton Street. Seconds later, the crew would be working two rescued occupants from the burning home. Both were taken to Reading Hospital.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
MEMORIES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memories� feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
SCOTT M. NAGY
CHUCK LOWE
Union Fire Company of Bensalem operated this 1987 Spartan /LTI 75' aerial until 2016 when it was replaced with a Pierce Arrow XT Quint. The former Ladder 37 had a 1500-GPM pump but no water tank. This Bucks County department continues to run white apparatus, but has abandoned their blue stripes in favor of red.
SCOTT M. NAGY
Three Cats Rescued from Apartment Fire in Whitehall Twp. Whitehall Twp., PA - Whitehall Bureau of Fire responded to an apartment fire on March 11th at approximately 9:00 A.M. Upon arrival, Chief Nelson confirmed a working fire and asked for additional resources to respond from Coplay FD. Catasauqua and Greenwald Fire Departments were added to the assignment for RIT. Whitehall FD Engine 3811 arrived and stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch handline to the second-floor apartment that had fire coming out of the roof. Engine 3912 laid in the supply line and deployed a second handline as Engine 3711 and Tower 3631 arrived for manpower. Three cats were rescued in the process of extinguishing the fire, but two other cats unfortunately did not make it.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Crews Battle Stubborn Three-Alarm House Fire in Ross Township Ross Township, PA – At 6:36 A.M. on April 5th, fire units were dispatched to the 4500 block of Peoples Road for a reported house fire. Firefighters arrived to find a working fire and a JUMP TO FILE# second-alarm was 040819135 requested. Crews worked for almost two hours to bring the stubborn fire under control. A third-alarm was requested about one hour into the incident for additional manpower. No one was injured and the fire is now under investigation. Several people did live in the home at the time of the fire. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
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A Ross Twp. fire is finally brought under control after a two hour battle.
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The Stevens Fire Co. of Lancaster County still maintains this 1951 Chevrolet 6400/Pirsch engine. It has a 500 pump, 300 water and 10 foam, and the original tires from when it was purchased over 67 years ago. DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
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STEVE JOHNSON
Reading firefighters work to open a roof at 1317 North 10th Street after a power line came down and ignited the roof. Crews had the fire contained quickly.
BARRY FISHER
The Friendship Fire Co. #2 of Mohnton formerly operated this 1980 Pierce Arrow/LTI/FireStix 1000-GPM quint as Ladder 57.
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
PAGE 25
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PAGE 26
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Townhome Fire in Comru Twp. Sends Occupants Out Into the Cold Cumru Twp., PA - On Saturday, March 9th, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a phone call reporting a fire at 17 Chaser Court. As firefighters JUMP TO FILE# were being dis- 032619112 patched, additional calls were received reporting smoke showing from the first-floor of a townhouse. Cumru Police Officers arrived with a fire on the exterior of the home and found the occupants safe outside. As crews arrived, a hose line was stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down. The fire was placed under control in 10 minutes and no injuries were reported. - JASON BATZ
Firefighters wet down burnt materials after a fire on Chase Court in Cumru Township.
KATIE WITMOYER
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES
OLD AND NEW If you have photos for our Old and New feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
If you have photos for our Firefighter Profiles feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
NIK KNAUER
DALE FEEHRER
Goodwill Fire Company #1 of Lebanon County has taken delivery of their 2019 Western Star/Alexis (1250/3300) tanker, which will take over the duties as Tanker 30. The former Tanker 30 (left), a 1994 Pierce Dash (1250/2000), will be used more as an "attack" piece.
Congratulations to Reading FF John Seyfert on his retirement after 40 years of combined service to the city. Seyfert got his start in the fire service by joining Marion Fire Co. #10 in 1979. John volunteered with the company until he was hired by the city on April 4th of 1994. After completing fire training he was assigned to the 'B' platoon as a jumper firefighter. After a year on the 'B', FF Seyfert took an assignment on Engine 14 with the 'D' platoon. After working the southside for nearly 3 years John moved to the 'A' platoon on Engine 11. In January of 2002, John transfferred to Ladder 3 and back to the station he first started at in 1979. He continued to work the ladder for the next 15 years before retiring. John plans on spending his retirement catching up on some projects that have been dormant for the past 20 years.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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May, 2019
Live Ammunition Forces Crews Out of Collier Twp. Home Collier Twp., PA – At 5:19 P.M. on March 20th, firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire located along Walkers Mill Road in Collier JUMP TO FILE# Township. EMS ar- 032219102 rived on-scene first and reported a fully involved structure fire. Firefighters then arrived and set up a transitional attack. Once crews began getting the fire knocked down from the outside, crews attempted to make entry but were forced to evacuate the home due to live ammunition going off inside the home. Crews then set up a defensive attack due to the large amount of ammunition stored in the home. The fire was finally placed under control at 7:12 P.M. Crews stayed on scene for several more hours conducting overhaul. No injuries were reported, but the home was a total loss. The fire is now under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
Fire vents from the roof more than an hour after the initial call.
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PAGE 28
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
RAINMAN14
Firefighters dealt with heavy smoke throughout the house as they battled the blaze.
Second-Alarm Struck at Ruscombmanor House Fire Ruscombmanor Twp., PA - At 9:35 P.M. on March 10th, Ruscombmanor Fire Department Station 34, along with Fleetwood Engine and Tower 45, Oley Engine 5, Virginville Ladder 33, Walnuttown Tanker 32 and Life Lion EMS, were dispatched to the house across from 3731 Pricetown Road for a structure fire, reported as flames showing from a window. Assistant 34 went en route and requested a re-dispatch due to no voice being heard over the pager. Responding crews were advised of flames coming from the firstfloor windows. With the fire being on the same block as Station 34, Engine 34 arrived quickly, reporting a working fire and requesting fire police to shut down the road. Deputy 34 requested a secondalarm assignment soon after, bringing crews in from Blandon, Topton and Kutztown. Firefighters from Engine 34 stretched a line to the building and went to work knocking down the fire. With Tankers 32, 33, 19 and 21, as well as Engine Tankers 12 and 46 on the assignment, Chief 34 requested the next four tankers as well as Met-Ed to the scene to secure power. Deputy 32 took water operations command on Fire Ops 1 and a fill site was established at a hydrant just outside Fleetwood Borough, near Houck and Willow Roads. As firefighters went to work inside the structure fighting the fire and conducting searches, crews reported holes burned through the floor on the secondfloor of the 'Delta' side of the structure. Captain 12 took command of interior crews on the second-floor. The state police fire marshal was requested to the scene as
JUMP TO FILE #041319102 crews found negative results in primary searches. A dump site was established on the west side of the fire and all tankers had to access the fire from the Route 662 side. As more handlines were stretched, additional tankers from as far as Amity Township went en route to the scene. Once crews gained access to the third-floor they quickly knocked down fire running along the roofline and requested crews to open the roof to provide ventilation. Crews on the third division also reported that the floor was completely compromised on the 'Delta' side. Rescue 32 set up their cascade system to fill cylinders right next to Ruscombmanor's station. Due to the extended operation, Canteen 9 was dispatched to the scene to assist with rehab. As overhaul operations continued Assistant 12-1 took interior operations and reported that fire in the basement was knocked down, and that there was a hole that ran through all the floors down into the basement on the 'Delta' side. As roof operations began, crews from Station 46 found that part of the roof was compromised and began making holes in a safe location. Once the roof was opened crews wasted no time to get off of it. By 10:55 P.M., tankers started to clear the scene as crews brought lighting inside for the end stages of overhaul. Fire police from multiple stations were dispatched to assist at the scene and at the fill site. No injuries were reported. - LUCAS RICHARDSON
The Citizens VFC of Fawn Grove house this 1953 FWD engine that continues to serve the department and community of Fawn Grove for special events. DALE FEEHRER
The Grill Fire Company of Cumru Township formerly operated this 1957 Diamond-T, 750-GPM pumper.
GRILL FIRE COMPANY
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Stroudsburg, PA Chemical Fire Company No. 1 used to run this 1982 Pirsch 100' TDA as Ladder 3863.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
PAGE 29
Two-Alarm Fire Heavily Damages McKeesport Home City of McKeesport, PA – At 9:05 P.M. on March 24th, City of McKeesport firefighters were dispatched to a possible residential structure fire located along the 1100 block of JUMP TO FILE# Washington Street. 032619116 The caller reported smoke in the home and crackling coming from the walls. The first arriving officer found smoke showing and a second-alarm was requested. Crews made entry and found a working fire that had made its way to the roof. Firefighters began opening up walls to knock the fire down as a crew opened the roof in the rear of the structure. It took fire crews just under one hour to get the fire under control. No one was injured and the fire is now under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Fire vents through the roof after crews open it up.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FIRE EXPO 2010
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The City of Lebanon Bureau of Fire operates this 2015 Predator Panther with 1500-gPM pump and 500-gallon tank as engine 19.
RAINMAN14
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717-581-5469 • Fax: 717-735-7459 email: expo@LCFA.com website: Lcfa.com
The Phoenix of Pottsville placed this 2014 Pierce Arrow XT-100' TdA into service as Ladder 21. This piece formally served Brevard County Fire-rescue in FL. DALE FEEHRER
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1-800-262-9974 or www.connectionsmeetings.com/content/1439.htm Lebanon County's Quentin Fire Co. recently placed this 2018 KMe Panther into service as engine 37. It has a 1250 pump, 1000 water and replaces a 2001 hMe/New Lexington engine. DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
The Nicktown Fire Company of Cambria County has a 1, 2 punch for their forestry/brush fire work. Two rigs provided through the forestry program operate as Brush 59-5 and Brush Tanker 59-4. The Brush Tanker is a 1967 Kaiser with a portable pump and 1200-gallons of water. The Brush is a 1970 Kaiser with a 400 pump and 750-gallons of water. There is no off-road location these two won't get you to.
SCOTT M. NAGY
Whitehall Bureau of Fire Responds to Structure Fire
Whitehall Twp., PA - Whitehall Bureau of Fire responded to an appliance fire on March 25th. Upon arrival it was discovered to be a structure fire and the assignment was upgraded. Chief Nelson used a water can to knock down the flames from outside while awaiting the arrival of Engine 3711. Engine 3711 arrived and stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch handline and extinguished the fire (with FF Kyle Beltz, their newest FF1, making his first initial interior fire). Engine 3611 laid in from the hydrant to 3711. Tower 3631's crew checked for extension while Engine 3831 checked for a cat that was inside. They located the cat and then ventilation started. DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
BUDDY SHOTS
The Nicktown Fire Co. of Cambria County operates this 1967 Kaiser as Brush Tanker 59-4. It has a PP and 1200 water on it.
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.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
REBECCA ZENTMYER
Reading Firefighters pose for a photo together during a confined space rescue drill.
Brush 59-5 is a 1970 Kaiser with a 400 pump and 750-gallons of water.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
FACES OF PENNSYLVANIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your “Faces” in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,
Duquesne Annex Station 294 Captain Tyler Magyar exits a commercial building fire in Munhall.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
KEN BROOKE
Reading Firefighter Local 1803 President Mike Shoumlisky smiles for the camera during a Boot Drive for Muscular Dystrophy.
KEN SNYDER
Members and officers of the Croydon VFD gathered for a group photo last September to celebrate their department's 100th anniversary.
JC KRIESHER
DALE FEEHRER
A crew off of Hershey Truck 48 checks for extension during a recent kitchen fire in an apartment complex.
Pottsville Assistant Chief Eddie Ebling walks up to the command post at a three-alarm fire in Ashland.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Mountville Fire Company No. 1, Station 7 is located in Lancaster County, PA.
Mountville Fire Co. No. 1, located at 26 North Lemon St.
TIMOTHY COOVER
May, 2019
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Pay Attention to the Details! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
One thing I learned early on in my firefighter career is that the less there is to clean up, the happier the crew. This especially rings true with the rule that the cooks are exempt from cleanup….I like that rule! “One pan” recipes are popular for this very reason and not just in the firehouse. These recipes are also perfect for home cooks who are looking to save time on cleanup and reduce the chances of having a “tornado incident” in the kitchen, and you know exactly what I mean by that. But just because something is called a “one
pan” recipe doesn’t mean you should throw just everything into one pan, pop it in the oven and say a prayer in hopes that it turns out ok. This is where attention to detail will really help you become a better cook. Taking the time to build layers of flavor, even in a simple preparation, will make your food taste better. A perfect example of this is my Roasted Chicken with Fennel, Oranges and Olives recipe below. Starting with the chicken skin-side down first on the stovetop helps you in rendering the fat before everything goes in the oven. This allows us to achieve the crispy skin we all love. Tossing the sliced vegetables in oil and salt prior to putting them in the pan ensures all the surfaces are covered and seasoned well. This step not only reduces the chances of burning them, it allows us to bring out the
flavor of the ingredients while they cook. And one thing that many cooks fail to think about is presentation and garnish. Just a simple touch of orange zest not only adds color but a ton of flavor from the essential oils it contains. And the fennel fronds, which usually end up in the trash, can really make a dish pop with color right before serving. Plus, it results in less waste which is always a good thing, especially when you are on a budget. Taking the time to read through recipes and understanding why certain things are being done are key to becoming better cooks. Anyone can throw a bunch of stuff in a pot and call it a day. But a true cook learns about their ingredients, treats them with respect and pays attention to the details. Stay safe, eat well!
ROASTED CHICKEN WITH FENNEL, ORANGE & OLIVES Serves 3
Ingredients: TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine 7-1 is a 2008 Crimson Custom Pumper on a Spartan Gladiator chassis with 1750-GPM 2-stage Waterous pump & 750-gallons of water.
6 Chicken Thighs, bone-in and skin-on 1 Cara Cara Orange, zested and thin sliced 1 Navel Orange, zested and thin sliced ½ Red Onion, peeled and thin sliced 2 Fennel, thin sliced and fronds reserved 1 Cup Castelvetrano Olives, pitted (substitute with any green olives) 1 Tbs. Chili Flake 2 Tbs. Kosher Salt, plus more to taste Extra Virgin Olive Oil Procedure:
(Pictured Front to Back): Command 7 is a 2017 Chevy Tahoe; Air 7 is a 2004 Crimson Custom on a Spartan Gladiator Chassis. Features include 6x6000psi cascade cylinders, 14cfm Mako Compressor, 2 position Mako fill station & 9,000W of light output around the unit. TIMOTHY COOVER
TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine 7-2 is a 1995 Pierce Saber 1500-GPM Waterous single-stage pump with 500-gallons of water.
-Preheat oven to 450°. Place a large cast-iron pan or oven-proof skillet in the oven while it preheats and you assemble your ingredients.
-Trim chicken thighs of excess skin and fat. Pat dry and season both sides liberally with salt. Set aside. -Using oven mitt, remove pan/skillet from oven and place on low heat. Add a couple glugs of olive oil and place the chicken skin side down in one layer. Keep an eye on the chicken while you prepare the rest of the ingredients so as not to burn them.
-While the chicken is cooking, thin slice the onion and
set aside. Cut the stalks off the fennel bulb and save the fronds. Thin slice the fennel bulb, discarding the root end and any discolored brown bits. Zest your oranges and set aside with reserved fennel fronds; this will be used as a garnish. Now thinly slice the oranges, removing any seeds. Toss sliced onion, fennel and orange in a bowl with a pinch of salt and drizzle of olive oil. -Remove the browned chicken thighs to a dish. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of the oil and grease out of the pan. Pour in the fennel, onion, orange mixture along with the chili
flake. Place the chicken on top, skin side up. Arrange some of the orange slices on top. Place the pan in the oven and cook for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken temperature is 165° F. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the olives to the pan. AJ FUSCO
-Taste and season if needed. Garnish with orange zest, fennel fronds and a drizzle of olive oil.
*Note: Use any variety of oranges you like. Cara Cara has a subtle sour note which pairs well against the sweetness of other oranges and cooked fennel.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Located up Route 225 in northern Dauphin County is the small town of Elizabethville, PA. The town is home to the famously known Swab Wagon Co., which began in 1868 with manufacturing horse-drawn wagons, to now manufacturing fire apparatus, ambulances and utility trucks a century later. Swab is still in business today and works mainly with utility/service vehicles.
The town of Elizabethville was founded in 1817, and in 1889 the citizens would organize the fire department, Reliance Hose Co. #1. The fire department purchased its first piece of fire apparatus (hose cart) and firehouse the following year. In 1894 the fire department was incorporated and in
1960, the department moved into it's new firehouse after beginning an ambulance club, which started in 1958 with a donated ambulance. As the department's apparatus fleet continued to grow, two more bays were added to the station in 1976. In 1992 the fire department moved to it's current location at 333 W. Main Street where it's current 50 active members protect roughly 1700 citizens in a 0.55-mile radius area that is Elizabethville, (not including Washington Township which is also covered by this department). They answer between 150200 calls annually for service in Elizabethville and Washington Twp., and pro-
vide mutual aid support to the surrounding communities. The current fleet consists of one engine, one tanker, one rescue/engine and one squad/utility.
As this is being typed the members have just accepted delivery of a 2019 Pierce Enforcer engine that will replace a 2001, which will be sold to a nearby department. Info on the apparatus will be posted below. Author's Note: Special thanks to Chief Werner, Mr. Shutt, and the members of the Reliance Hose Co. #1 for their assistance with this article. Other info was obtained from the 100th anniversary program. - DALE FEEHRER
Rescue 21 is a 2011 KME (1500/500/20AF).
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
Tanker 21 is a 1998 Freightliner/New Lexington (1000/2500). DALE FEEHRER
Current Engine 21 is a 2001 Spartan/New Lexington (1750/1000), which will be sold to the Fisherville Fire Co.
DALE FEEHRER
New Engine 21 is a 2019 Pierce Enforcer (1750/1000/20AF).
DALE FEEHRER
Former Engine 21 (now privately owned), is a 1964 Hahn (1250/500).
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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WORKING FACES
PET FRIENDS
If you have photos you would like to see in our Working Faces feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
If you have photos you would like to see in our Pet Friends feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Braddock Station 113 Chief C.J. Kaminsky and Captain Tyler Toth work a house fire in North Versailles.
JASON BATZ
Reading Fire Department's arson dog "Gracie" poses for a photo after receiving an upgraded Motorola speaker microphone.
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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JASON BATZ
RAINMAN14
Brush Fire Season Kicks Off in Rockland Twp. Rockland Twp., PA - At 3:05 P.M. on March 27th, brush fire season officially kicked off in Northern Berks as Lyons Fire Company Station 35 was dispatched to the intersection of Highview Lane and Fredericksville Road for a reported field on fire. Berks DES received one call reporting several areas of flames with people out in the field. Chief 35 arrived at 3:10 P.M. and confirmed a working fire. Chief 35 took command as operations were switched to Berks Fire Ops 1, and Brush, Tanker and Engine 35 responded to the scene. Crews from DCNR assisted in controlling and extinguishing the fire, which started when winds picked up embers from a controlled burn and spread to an empty crop field. Crews cleared the scene a short time later. Fire departments from Northern Berks battled two other brush fires on March 27th, including a multi-acre fire in Greenwich Township and another in Perry Township.
MEMORIAL BOARD
Cumru Fire Engine 42-1 operates at a vehicle fire in the woods behind the Mohnton Gun Club. To the rear of the Engine is Tanker 42 supplying water for the fire. Engine 42-1 is 2009 Spartan/Toyne and Tanker 42 is 1990 Autocar/4 guys.
FRANK ROBINSON
If you have photos you would like to see in our Memorial Board feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Witmer Fire Company Engine 621, a 1998 HME/New Lexington, is shown here at a working fire.
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.
JOSHUA KNOLL/2 GUYS FIRE PHOTOS
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
The Etna Vol. Fire Company, Station 149 in Allegheny County, recently lost a friend, mentor and lifelong member. Harry H. Litvaney passed away on April 7th at the age of 88. Harry served the community for over 65 years acting as Emergency Management Coordinator, and was the former Fire Chief of Etna Vol. Fire Department #1 up until the 1980 merger of both Etna Departments, which he was a key part of. Harry was still an active member of the department up until his death and will always be remembered for sitting in front of the fire station, pipe in hand, waving to everyone passing by. He will truly be missed by the community, his friends, family and fellow firefighters. Pictured (L to R): Chief Greg Porter with Harry Litvaney at the scene of a fire back in 2006.
The members of Kutztown Community Fire Co. Station 32 were looking to replace an aging Pierce engine, and now the second piece obtained from Chestnut Ridge Fire Co. out of Maryland is serving its second life in Lebanon County. (Rural Security Fire Co. is running Chestnut Ridge's Seagrave Tanker.) Engine 32 "Pride of the Northside", a 2006 (1500-GPM/1000-gallon) American LaFrance Eagle was placed into service on 2/1/19, at which time this first official photo was taken of her.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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SEE US AT THE HARRISBURG FIRE EXPO! Harrisburg Booth #950 & 951
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
MASON-DIXON FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY
Citizens Vol. Fire Co. was joined by units from Norrisville, MD (pictured in the background), and other mutual aid companies from PA and MD.
Crews from PA and MD Battle Two-Alarm Apartment Fire Fawn Grove, PA - At 4:44 P.M. on April 1st, Citizens Vol. Fire Co. of Fawn Grove's Box 5602 was struck for a residential structure fire. Engines 56-3 (CVFC), 1011 (Norrisville-Harford Co.), 611 (Whiteford-Harford Co.), Tankers 56 (CVFC-responded as engines), 1025 (Norrisville), and 54-1 (Stewartstown), as well as Truck 54 (Stewartstown) and Supply Engine 56-1 (CVFC) responded to the scene. Crews arrived in the 300 block of Main Street to find heavy fire showing from the rear of a one-story, two-apartment residential building. Heavy smoke was pushing through all windows and the roof of the building, and there was a major exposure issue to the 'C/D' corner. At 4:46 P.M., the fire was upgraded with a Working Fire dispatch, bringing in Air 961 (Darlington-Harford Co.), Engine 54-4 (Stewartstown), Rescue 651 (Whiteford-for RIT), Ambulance 95-11 (SYCEMS), and Tanker 57 (Delta-Cardiff). At 4:53 P.M., command requested a second-alarm, bringing in Engine 57-3 (Delta-Cardiff) and Tanker 55-1 (Airville) to the scene. Additional resources from Citizens (Utility 56, Brush 56, Fire Police), Delta-Cardiff (Rescue 57), Airville (Engine 55-4), Stewartstown (Engine 54-3), Felton (Tanker 43), Craley (Engine 44-2-for air-cancelled), and Maryland Line (Baltimore Co.-Engine 451-for RIT) responded to the
JUMP TO FILE #041119108 scene. Transfer companies from Glen Rock, Loganville and North Hopewell-Winterstown filled in empty York County fire stations during the incident. Water supply was established at a nearby pond and tankers shuttled water to a nurse tanker and to the Citizens rigs, which were the primary fire attack apparatus. Crews were able to get the fire under control in about 30 minutes. Overhaul took around two hours to complete, as crews doused hot spots in the remnants of the gutted building. Crews were able to save the exposure building, except for the melted siding and cracked windows it suffered. There were no injuries to any firefighters or civilians during the incident. The cause was ruled accidental and most likely caused by a malfunctioning electrical appliance (either the furnace or electrical box). Crews were able to limit fire damage to the rear area of the building, but smoke and water damage extended throughout. Without the quick actions of CVFC Chief Doug Shanberger and another firefighter from Baltimore County who were watching a nearby soccer game when they spotted the blaze, the damage could have been much worse. - JOSHUA AMBERMAN
DALE FEEHRER
The Keystone Hook & Ladder Co. #1 of Myerstown still operates this 1992 Mack/LTI (1500/1000) as Engine 31. This piece will be replaced by a new Pierce later this summer.
RICHARD BILLINGS
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
SCENES FROM THE 2019 ALLENTOWN SPRING MELT
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.
CHUCK LOWE
RICH RONSINI
RICH RONSINI
DID Y OU K NOW
Chester Borough of Fire ran this 2015 Rosenbauer tower as Ladder 82 for a couple of years. It was replaced by a smaller 2017 Rosenbauer straight stick two years later after it was deemed too large for the city. The 2015 rig was sold to the rural town of Thomaston, Connecticut where it should have no trouble navigating the streets. It has been designated Truck 1 by that department.
This 1965 Mack 1000/500 once served Jeanette, PA. It's now owned by a PA collector.
KEN SNYDER
?
Walt Disney World is the largest consumer of fireworks in the United States launching the fireworks with compressed air instead of gunpowder to reduce fumes and gain better height and timing.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Cambria County's Spangler Fire Company Truck 58-3 is a 1998 Pierce Lance that they recently placed into service from Beaufort, South Carolina. It has a 2000 pump, 200 water and 100' rear-mount tower.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Third-Floor Apartment Fire in Reading Displaces Residents Reading, PA - On Monday evening, March 25th, city companies were dispatched to 325 North 9th Street for a reported fire. Chief Stoudt (C4) and Engine 1 arrived with fire showing at a JUMP TO FILE# three-story, middle- 032619111 of-row apartment building. Firefighters stretched a line into the building and encountered occupants fleeing the upper floors. One person reported that someone was trapped by the fire in the front apartment. Crews located and knocked down the fire quickly, while other crews searched for the trapped occupant. All searches were declared to be clear with no injuries reported. The fire was confined to the room of origin. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause. - JASON BATZ
Firefighters in Reading arrived at this 3-story apartment building with fire showing from a 3rd-floor window on 3/25/19.
THOMAS ENGLISH
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
May, 2019
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
TJ WALTERS
Dwelling Fire on South 12th Street in Reading
Reading, PA - On Monday, April 1st, dispatchers from the Berks County DES 911 call center received calls reporting a staircase on fire at 145 South 12th Street. Deputy Chief Thomas Rehr (Car 8) arrived minutes later, reporting smoke showing from the rear of a two-and-a-half story MOR. Firefighters stretched a line into the dwelling and located a fire on the second floor. Crews searched the home and found no one inside. The fire was placed under control in 20 minutes, with minor extension into an adjoining dwelling. No injuries were reported and the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.
OLD & NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RAINMAN14
Elverson County, PA - Twin Valley Fire Department's old Rescue 69 (left) pictured with their new Rescue 69.
JOSHUA KNOLL/2 GUYS FIRE PHOTOS
Susquehanna Twp., PA - Progress Fire Company has a long list of traditions, one of which is conducting training classes on a regular basis. Long gone are the days of stepping on a rig and just learning as you go. Because of newer technology, including how buildings are constructed today, the stakes are higher than ever before when lives are at risk. With that said, Progress Fire Co. would like to acknowledge their newest qualified Engine Chauffeur, Jake "From State Farm" Peretin. Jake started his Chauffeur training in August of 2018 and was taught everything he needed to know by some of the best in the business. In March, Jake completed his final requirements to become a Driver/Pump Operator. Congratulations Jake on a job well done!
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