Serving NEW JFire, ERSEY Serving Rescue
VOLUME 16, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973
SEPTEMBER 2021
See story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe
Never Forget 9/11/2001
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Fire News, September 2021, Page 3
In this issue... Palisades Park 2-Alarmer Companies contain a fire to a restaurant’s duct work.
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
See story on page 12
Fire News Looking Back Some memorable blazes from 2015 and 2016. See story on page 15
Junk Yard Fuel Tank Fire A report of fuel tanks on fire at Groff’s junkyard in Galloway Township. See story on page 21
Train Versus Truck in Mount Olive A New Jersey Transit train reports hitting a truck. Luckily, only minor injuries were suffered See story on page 25
Up Close and Personal A closer look at first responders from around the state. See story on page 29
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant GREGORY JONES, Graphic Artist FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2021, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Obituary
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Egg Harbor’s Robert DeVinney See story on page 33
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 12 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, September 2021
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
9/11 - 20 Years Later
I still remember driving to work on September 11, 2001. Traffic was your usual Long Island bumper-to-bumper mess. As I listened to the morning news on my favorite radio station, a reporter commented on what was thought to be a private airplane that had crashed into the World Trade Center. I had no idea that all of our lives would change as a result of this incident. Twenty-years have passed since that terrible day. As I gave thought to this editorial, I wondered what my fire company’s new firefighters knew about 9/11. I did some quick math and realized the majority of my company’s probies were infants at the time of this attack on the United States. What could they know about this horrible day? I sat with five probies one night and realized that, thanks to the yearly memorial services and other yearly activities over the past 20 years, they knew more than I had given them credit for. They had a pretty good idea of what 9/11 was like. Of course, I interjected what my department did on 9/11 and what the atmosphere was like when every member showed up at the firehouse ready to be called into NYC. Our new
young members never realized we sent a crew to Alley Pond Park in Queens to stand by in case we were needed at the World Trade Center. I explained there was no hesitation by any member to jump onto the truck and help. My departments rescue truck was called into the South Street Seaport to set up lights. I explained to my audience that once Con Edison was able return electric to the Seaport, our members proudly rode home. I also noted that if there was anything positive that came out of this attack, it was that our nation pulled together to support the families of the fallen. Firefighters from all over the world offered support for the comfort of the families who did not know what the future held. Is that support still there? We cannot let our first responders down by walking away from the health problems that developed after 9/11. Exposure to toxins on that day, continue to take away the lives of our responders. We must continue to support all first responders in their time of need. Thanks to the Steven Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, the FealGood Fund and other organizations,
our fallen members are remembered. The Johnny Mac Foundation coined the phrase, “Whatever it takes.” Look into and support the organizations that support us. Every year we remain vigilant on the anniversary of 9/11. I recently heard on the news that this year, we must remain extra vigilant due to the current situation in Afghanistan. President Biden is slowly returning our military to this area, because things have quickly gotten out of hand with the removal of our troops. Until the world is at peace, we must remain vigilant at home. Let’s set the example! It is time to bring the respect and love back between Americans that we had 20 years ago after the attack on our country. - Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, September 2021
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Cover Story
Trenton All-Hands Blaze
Members of the Trenton Fire Department were called upon to battle a blaze involving two houses on South Logan Avenue in the Wilbur section of the city on July 5, 2021. The initial assignment consisting of Engines 6, 7 and 10, Ladder 4, Rescue 1, and the South Battalion, was dispatched about 0805. First-arriving crews encountered heavy fire conditions on the upper floors of the 2-1/2 story home on South Logan, with flames extending into the attached dwelling. An all-hands was transmitted, sending the balance of the
first alarm to the scene — Engine 3, Ladder 2, Special Services 1, and the North Battalion. An aggressive attack was initiated, however, interior conditions rapidly deteriorated and all personnel were pulled from the buildings. Defensive operations utilizing multiple hoselines and Ladder 4’s aerial master stream were ultimately used to bring the fire under control. Two small dogs were located and removed by members of Rescue 1, but one of the pets did not survive. - Fire News photos & story by Michael Ratcliffe
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Fire in Oakcrest Estates The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing, Cologne and Laureldale responded to Radnor Court in the Oakcrest Estates on May 1, 2021, for a dryer fire. Police arrived and reported heavy smoke showing. Cologne Assistant Chief Sciore reported a working fire. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine established command and requested the first arriving apparatus to wrap in as there was a hydrant at both entrances. Firefighters stretched a 1-3/4 inch line to the front door and were met by heavy smoke and a kitchen fire. While the kitchen fire was being extinguished, fans were set up at the front door for ventilation while additional firefighters searched the second floor. Also responding were Dorothy EMS, Atlantic City Electric Company, and South Jersey Gas Company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Electrical Fire in Wanamassa On May 20, 2021, the Ocean Township Wanamassa Fire Department Station 37-2 was dispatched to a home on Route 35 northbound for a reported basement fire. Chief 37-2-66 was first to arrive and advised incoming units of a confirmed smoke condition in the basement. A small fire was found involving the electrical panel which was quickly extinguished, but smoke had charged the entire house. Engine 2-73 extinguished the fire and Rescue 2-85 set up ventilation fans to evacuate the smoke. Crews operated on scene for approximately 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Page 8, Fire News, September 2021
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Car into Porch in Asbury Park
On May 17, 2021, the Asbury Park Fire Department responded to a home on 4th Avenue for reports of a vehicle into a house. Companies arrived to find an SUV that went off the roadway and struck the front porch of the residence. The vehicle was back in the street on arrival and there was no structural damage done to the house. Asbury Park Police conducted a field sobriety test on the scene for the driver. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Page 10, Fire News, September 2021
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Fast Stop in Parsippany On May 29, 2021, Parsippany Fire Districts 4 and 6 were dispatched to Reservoir Drive for a fire. Engine 662 arrived to a fire in a laundry room and stretched a line. District 4’s Squrt set up to the roof but no vertical ventilation was needed thanks to the quick interior attack. Boonton Engine 303 responded as the RIT but was quickly returned, as the fire was placed under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Farmington, NJ-ANG Train Members of the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company, along with firefighters from the 177th Fighter Interceptor Group of the New Jersey Air National Guard (the “Jersey Devil”s) Fire Department trained June 15, 2021, at the Farmington station. The training consisted of familiarization of equipment with a Power Point presentation of aircraft emergencies and response. Egg Harbor Township abuts the airport. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Page 12, Fire News, September 2021
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Palisades Park 2-Alarmer
On July 4, 2021, firefighters arrived at East Columbia Street in Palisades Park to find smoke issuing from a Chinese restaurant in the middle of a two-story taxpayer. Companies stretched two lines to the interior finding a fire in the ductwork of the restaurant
New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Conference In-Person 2021 The 2021 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Conference is just around the corner and hopefully you have already registered and selected the training sessions you want to take. If not, there’s no time to delay, register today! The Conference will kick-off Sunday, September 19, 2021, with an afternoon schedule of training and breakouts followed by our Networking and Awards Reception, Sunday evening. Monday, training starts at 0800 and runs until 1600 with our Exhibit Hall opening at 1630 with our Vendor Reception. Tuesday’s Continental Breakfast will take place in the Exhibit Hall with Training and Breakouts scheduled throughout the day. Our Luncheon will be served adjacent to the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday. Wednesday morning is dedicated to a follow-up presentation on the Marjory Stoneman Douglas School shooting in Coral Springs, Florida. Pre-registration is required. REMINDER: NEW VENUE The 2021 Conference is being held at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City.
prompting a second alarm to be transmitted. Multiple trucks opened up and companies were able to contain the fire to the duct work with minor extension. The fire was put under control in about 45 minutes. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
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Mount Holly 2-Alarmer
On June 27, 2021, Taskforce 50 units were alerted for a possible apartment fire. After initial units arrived on scene, the address was updated and units had to relocate. Command reported fire in a 2-1/2
story apartment building. All occupants and pets were safely evacuated from the building. The Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Looking Back Vincentown - 2016
Sea Isle - 2016
On December 16, 2016, Vincentown units were alerted for a house fire on Ridge Road. The fire attack started offensive, but due to rapidly deteriorating conditions, companies switched to defensive. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
On February 24, 2016, the Sea Isle Fire Department along with Dennisville Fire and Oceanview Fire were dispatched to Minmar Marine on Old Sea Isle Boulevard for multiple boats on fire. The alarm coincided with abnormal winter thunderstorms that were ripping through the area. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom
Paterson 2015 On May 31, 2015, the Paterson Fire Department responded to McBride Avenue for a house fire and encountered heavy fire conditions in the rear and near-Collyer’s Mansion conditions. The fire eventually went to four alarms. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Page 16, Fire News, September 2021
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Kearny 5-Alarmer
Five alarms were transmitted for a fast-moving fire that destroyed one home and heavily damaged two other homes in Kearny on July 18, 2021. The Kearny Fire Department responded at 0900 for 911 calls reporting a house fire on Elm Street. KPD units arrived and evacuated the fire building as well as the exposures. Heavy fire was showing from the original fire building and had already spread into both the B and D exposures, similar 2-1/2 story frame dwellings separated by alleys. A second alarm was immediately requested by command, bringing mutual aid to the scene. Companies worked hard in oppressive humidity to keep the fire from spreading to additional homes. A total of five alarms was transmitted bringing companies from throughout Hudson County, as well as Bergen and Essex counties, to the scene and for cover. Two firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to the hospital, the elderly occupant of the home was transported to the burn unit in unknown condition. The fire was placed under control at 1216, however, companies remained on the scene for several more hours. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Kearny Fire Investigation Unit with assistance from the NJ Division of Fire Safety. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo and Michael Saggau, Jr.
Page 20, Fire News, September 2021
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“Forest Fire Service” by Joseph M. Getsinger 2021
New Jersey Forest Fire Service, Division C: (left to right): Al Valentino, Quincy Jones, Ken Badger, Jr., Nick Bleyhl, John Knapp, Larry Birch, Bill Donnelly, (Asst. State Fire Warden and K9 Handler) and Anthony Tobolski, Jr., in the truck (2020). - Fire News photos provided
Burn Foundation Artist Aided by the NJ Forest Fire Service For the 41st Year of his partnership with the Burn Foundation and its annual fundraiser at the NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, artist Joseph M. Getsinger, wanted to create something unique. Co-worker and firefighter, Rich Dale, suggested a “Wildfire” scene honoring the Forest Fire Service. Over the years Joe’s work has depicted many aspects of emergency response featuring firefighter and their equipment, their history, and various evolutions of the first responder experience. The 2021 painting will be Joe’s first to feature the Forest Fire Service in action. The Burn Foundation was established in 1973 to provide fundraising for the emerging specialty for the treatment of burn injuries. The foundation was formed with the mission to provide assistance to burn patients, their families and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four (4) regional Burn Centers at Crozer Chester Medical Center, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Temple University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, their patients, families and staff, have all benefited from contributions raised at various events throughout the years. But none is more important than the annual NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood. Joe Getsinger’s art has been a major influence in the foundation's successful fundraising efforts in Wildwood for 41 years. To get the ball rolling with this year’s painting, Joe called Assistant State Fire Warden/K9 Handler of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, William J. Donnelly of Division C Headquarters. Bill responded that he and his crew would be honored to assist the Burn Foundation and the artist. He and his crew knew of Joe's art, some of which is displayed at their headquarters. In early March of 2020, Getsinger met with Donnelly and his crew and set up a photo shoot in the Mays Landing Forest. The crew was ready with equipment and manpower. Joe learned many facets of the of New Jersey State Forest Firefighters and their expertise, not only in extinguishing fires, but also how to prevent them from spreading. The scenario for the painting shows a wildfire traveling to the crew’s area of operations and what the Forest Fire Service members do to mitigate its spread. The artist also incorporated the NJ Forest Fire Service airplane shown dropping an extinguishing agent from above and the Fire Tower. Joe found the photo shoot and exercise a terrific learning experience about the NJ Forest Fire Service and its great group of dedicated professionals. This yearly art project continues to be sponsored in full by David
Russell, President, Fire and Safety Services Ltd., South Plainfield, who has supported the Burn Foundation and the Artist for over 20 years. This year’s sponsor for the “Forest Fire Service” Collector Pins is First Harvest Credit Union. First Harvest’s President and CEO Ernest Huggard, and Vice President Kenneth Barnshaw were proud to sponsor the collector pin for the third year to support the work of the Burn Foundation. In June 2021, the South Jersey Federal Credit Union’s name was changed to First Harvest Credit Union. Today, First Harvest Credit Union is a diverse, fullservice financial institution serving more than 54,000 members and over 700 employee groups throughout South Jersey. From its original roots in Camden County, the credit union has expanded its presence all the way to the Jersey Shore. Ten full-service locations in New Jersey include the main office in Deptford, New Jersey, along with branches in Camden, Glassboro, Pleasantville, Pennsauken, Voorhees, Mt. Laurel and Vineland. In addition, they service members in Philadelphia and Williamsport, Pennsylvania. You can pick one up at the gates of the Wildwood Firefighters’ Convention tents or at the Burn Foundation booth for a $5 donation on September 17 and 18, 2021. The giclée canvas print, the number one raffle prize, valued at $1500, was created and donated by John Cortese owner of Van Gogh Again Galleries, 1068 Pontiac Road, Drexel Hill, PA, who has donated a giclée canvas to support the Burn Foundation for over 10 years. The custom framing of the “Forest Fire Service” giclée canvas number 1 was donated by Wil Edwards of Premier Art and Frames, 162 S. Broadway, Pitman, a great place to get quality work at reasonable prices. Finally, God bless our first responders, nurses, doctors, EMTs, firefighters, police and all who support them in their efforts to stem the effects of Covid-19. We especially pray for the families who have lost loved ones during this pandemic. We all look forward to seeing everyone in Wildwood this September 17 and 18, 2021. If any Fire Departments/Companies wish to assist in selling raffle tickets for the limited edition artwork, feel free to contact the artist directly through his e-mail at: jgetsart@aol.com. Checks may be made out to: Burn Foundation. Prints of Joe's work will be raffled off on Saturday, September 18, 2021, at 1300.
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Junk Yard Fuel Tank Fire
Firefighters from Galloway Township responded to Groff’s Junkyard on Clarks Landing Road on August 1, 2021, at approximately 1430, for a report of fuel tanks on fire. Germania Chief Dave Simpkins arrived and requested mutual aid from neighboring Port
Republic and advised dispatch “to bring everything.” Firefighters from throughout South Jersey responded with multiple water tenders and pumpers for drafting and covering empty stations. The scene was cleared at 1830. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Page 22, Fire News, September 2021
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Budd Lake Car Fire
Recently the Budd Lake Fire Department was alerted for a car fire at the Community Gardens on Wolfe Road. With Car 51 at command, Engine 59’s crew took on the single-vehicle fire by stretching their bumper line and quickly knocking it down. Engine 59 was
backed up by Tender 57. The fire was confined to the engine compartment and the dash. There were no injuries and crews cleared within a half hour. - Fire News photo by A/C Kevin J. Maloney; Budd Lake FC
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Floods in Long Branch On July 6, 2021, in the City of Long Branch in the middle of heavy thunderstorms, members of the department were dispatched to several calls for motorists stuck in rising flood waters. Members from four stations responded along with Uniform Fire Division. Tour 1 put the department’s HumVee into service and removed several people from four vehicles in different areas of the city. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Westampton Carbon Monoxide Incident On June 22, 2021, District 27 units were alerted for a possible carbon monoxide incident at Burlington County Central Communications. Upon further investigation, units had measurable levels of carbon monoxide inside the building. Burlington County Central Communications line officers implemented a continuity plan to ensure no delay in emergency communications and dispatch. Three communications employees were transported to local hospitals for treatment. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
Page 24, Fire News, September 2021
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Tabernacle Auto Fire with Extension
On July 17, 2021, Taskforce 43 units were alerted for a reported pick-up truck on fire with exposure to a dwelling. Chief 4310 arrived and reported the fire had extended to the side of the dwelling. Quint 4314 arrived and stretched on the fire. Units from Shamong, Vincentown and Medford assisted. The fire was knocked down quickly with no reported injuries. The Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause of the fire. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Truck vs Train in Mount Olive
On the evening of July 7, 2021, Mount Olive Police received a call from New Jersey Transit saying they hit a truck at the Kinney Road crossing but did not know if anyone was inside the truck. Cars 50 and 51 arrived and found the truck driver was out of the truck but needed medical attention. Rescue 55 secured the truck and EMS transported the driver with non-life-threatening injuries to
Morristown Hospital. The train only had one passenger and three crew members on board and none were hurt. Rescue 55 and Engine 59 remained on scene assisting New Jersey Transit and the tow company with cleanup and removal of the train and truck. - Fire News photos by A/C Kevin J. Maloney; Budd Lake FC
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2 Fatalities at Teaneck House Fire Two people were killed in a fast-moving house fire in Teaneck on July 8, 2021. At approximately 0320 hours, Teaneck crews responded to Arlington Avenue for a house fire. Minutes later, BC Dixon reported heavy fire on the second and third floors of the 2-1/2 story frame dwelling and immediately requested a third alarm, which brought several mutual aid companies directly to the scene, additional companies for cover and a recall of off-duty firefighters. With reports of victims trapped a very aggressive attack was commenced and the main body of fire was knocked down in 10 minutes on the second floor, however, heavy fire broke through the roof and the fire dropped down to the first floor in the walls. Additional handlines were stretched into the attic and first floor. All visible fire was extinguished in just over an hour. The fire was placed under control in approximately 90 minutes. One firefighter suffered burns to his leg and was treated at the burn center before being released, two other firefighters suffered heat exhaustion but did not require transport. The fire was reportely accidental but was under investigation by the Teaneck Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau and the Bergen County Prosecutor’s office arson squad. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Fire News, September 2021, Page 27
Fire Engulfs SUV in Lawrence Township Crews from the Lawrenceville (Station 23) and Slackwood (Station 21) fire companies were called out to extinguish a fire that gutted a compact SUV in Lawrence Township, Mercer County, on July 17, 2021. The blaze was reported at 1720, not long before a severe thunderstorm swept through the area. Firefighters arrived to find the vehicle engulfed in flames at the bottom of the ramp leading from Interstate 295 south onto Brunswick Pike (Route 1) south. The crew from Lawrenceville’s Rescue 23 attacked the fire using a 1-3/4-inch line. At one point, showers of sparks erupted as water from the hoseline hit magnesium components burning inside the vehicle. Slackwood firefighters supplied tank water from Rescue 21 to help complete extinguishment. - Fire News photos & story by Michael Ratcliffe
Page 28, Fire News, September 2021
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Pole on Car The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Fire Road and Washington Avenue for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Firefighters arrived to find a single-vehicle crash with a utility pole atop the vehicle. The occupant was extricated quickly and refused treatment but was examined by EMS. The crash was under investigation by the Egg Harbor Township Police Department. Also responding were Egg Harbor Township EMS, Atlanticare Paramedics and Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Car into Building in Bridgeton The City of Bridgeton Fire Department responded to the Rite Aid store at East Broad Street, for a report of a vehicle into a building. Firefighters arrived and investigated and found a vehicle had struck the building causing minor exterior damage and no injuries to the driver. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, September 2021, Page 29
Up Close & Personal
DC John Robert Catello Sicignano radios orders on the fireground at a July 5, 2021, blaze in Newark. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
Egg Harbor Township EMT Bill Sharpe at a June 6, 2021, MVA at Ridge and Main Avenue standing by while the occupant is extricated. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
River Edge Chief Bill Sanders monitoring activity on the radio at a recent training evolution. Assisting him at the command post is New Milford past-Chief Ross Rhein. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Courtney Micewicz of the Laurence Harbor Fire Company - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Photographer Ken Badger at work at an MVA in Egg Harbor Township\ on June 6, 2021. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Page 30, Fire News, September 2021
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FIREHOUSE EXPO PREVIEW
Why Columbus?
Columbus was selected as the new home for Firehouse Expo after taking many points into consideration. We sought an area that has strong, progressive fire departments to support us. Like the pricing for the conference, we wanted a city that provides affordable travel and lodging and a location that offers plenty of activities in the days before and after Firehouse Expo and in the evenings during the event. Columbus offers all of that and much more. We are excited to work with the strong and progressive Columbus Division of Fire, with fire departments in Franklin County and with the Ohio State Fire Academy. It’s easy to fly into Columbus through John Glenn Airport (CMH), with more than 40 nonstop flights daily. The drive time from the New York City area is less than nine hours; points including Nashville, Chicago and Upper Michigan are less than six hours on the road.
Firehouse Expo’s Opening Ceremony
You won’t want to miss Brian Brush’s keynote, “Mission, Metrics and Vision.” Brush, the chief of training in Midwest City, OK, and founder of the Firefighter Rescue Survey, will look at metrics of fires compared to 50 years ago when the America Burning report was first published. While the number of fires is down, the threat of complacency is real when it comes to a fire service that is prepared to battle the next blaze and rescue victims, preventing a tragedy. Brush’s keynote will share how the fire service can recalibrate its mission and support the vision of vigilance that the firefighters and citizens expect of today’s firefighters. Firehouse will honor the Michael O. McNamee Award of Valor recipient, George O. Mueller and induct four longtime Firehouse contributors into the Firehouse Hall of Fame: Steve Austin and Curt Varone from the Class of 2020 and Ron Moore and Tom Shand from the Class of 2021.
Learning from Incidents
During the 37th annual Firehouse Expo, several presenters share what they learned at incidents that captured national headlines: Nashville’s Christmas Day Bombing-Capt. Scott Burgess, who was the initial incident commander for the vehicle-borne improvised explosive device that detonated in downtown Nashville on Dec. 25, 2020, will look at how EMS, suppression, hazmat and USAR crews operated at the blast. Burgess will share how work with local, state and federal authorities was key to bringing the incident under control. LODDs, Close Call Incident Save Ohio Firefighters-Chief Allen Walls will share the lessons learned in Colerain Township, OH, following the death of two firefighters as well as a close call, which were put to use years later to save the lives of several firefighters. “Tribulation, Tragedy and Triumph: A Close Call, a Double LODD and the Lessons Learned” is an in-depth look at these incidents and how you can apply the elements of them to prevent firefighter injuries or deaths. Ohio Middle School Shooting-Deputy Chief Kai Rieger will explain how the tragic self-inflicted shooting of a teenager activated several agencies for a possible mass shooting at the Jackson Memorial Middle School in Jackson Township, OH. Rieger will share the outlines as the event went from a suicide to a large-scale operation and look at each layer of the response.
Chicago Water Reclamation Plant Explosion-Join Tim Walsh, who was chief of special operations for the 2018 explosion, as he details the incident, including rescue operations to remove several trapped workers and the command structure that was needed to handle the incident.
Exhibit Floor Demonstrations & Roundtables
Between classroom sessions, visit the exhibit hall to meet with manufacturers. In addition to spending time with our sponsors, check the schedule for the various daily roundtables and product demonstrations and roundtables. We also partnered with the Illinois Fire Service Institute, All Hazards (A University of Findlay Training Center) and Insight Training to host various demonstrations in their respective booths each day. Demonstrations include rapid intervention and search techniques, thermal imaging skills and railroad tank car tactics.
Social Activities
First Annual FireFest Friday, Sept. 17, 1730-1930. We’re excited to host FireFest, which is a new annual social event that features food, drinks, and networking with firefighters and exhibitors from across the country, at Columbus Fire Fighters Local 67 union hall, Station 67. The renovated train station is packed with CFD history and provides a great view of downtown Columbus, where the free event will allow you to reconnect with or meet new brothers and sisters. Madison Township Professional Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2507 9/11 Charity Event Wednesday, Sept. 15, 1800-2200. Madison Township Professional Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2507 will host a special 9/11 Charity Event to help Motts Military Museum raise funds for its facility, which includes FDNY Tower Ladder 18, which was crushed by the collapsing buildings at the World Trade Center. The museum is home to the second-largest collection of 9/11 artifacts in the United States. This event is exclusive to Firehouse Expo attendees and includes a visit to the museum as well as to the local BrewDog brewery. Limited tickets are available. Exhibit Floor Networking Reception Thursday, Sept. 16, 1500-1600. Kick off the opening of the Firehouse Expo exhibit floor at the Welcome Reception with food, drinks, and access to all of the vendors, suppliers and manufacturers who will showcase the latest products and services. Firehouse Expo 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Friday, Sept. 17, 0730-1030. Firehouse and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) have partnered to host a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Huntington Park, which is home to the Columbus Clippers Triple-A baseball team. The fundraiser, which mimics the 110 flights of stairs that firefighters faced inside of the World Trade Center’s North and South Towers on 9/11, allows climbers to reflect on the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks with each step that they take.
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Valor Award for Medford FFs Medford Township Department of Fire & EMS held an awards ceremony July 7, 2021 during a Medford Township Council meeting. Medford Fire Deputy Chief Robert Watson III and Lieutenant Robert Dovi, as well as Medford Lakes Fire Department's Deputy Chief Adam Ruder and Captain Julian Vallery, were recognized for their life saving actions at a fire in Medford, on May 24, 2021. They successfully rescued a trapped resident from a house fire utilizing a tactic known as, “Vent Enter Search,” Upon arrival at the fire scene, DC Watson began to search the dwelling without back up or the protection of a handline. Lieutenant Dovi and Deputy Chief Watson identified the last bit of survivable space as the fire grew rapidly. Lieutenant Dovi broke out a window, climbed into the room and immediately located the victim, who is handicapped and unable to escape under their own power. Needing to act quickly, he used the bedsheet that the victim was already on as a tool and quickly passed the victim off to DC Watson, DC Ruder and Captain Vallery. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
Page 32, Fire News, September 2021
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EMSCNJ Awards $12,000 in Scholarships
Adam Bandle
Olivia Buchholz
Jack Fetze
Ilan Fitterma
Natalia Kruk
Adele Shepin
Erin Maura Crum
Jeffrey Mathew
Tamanna Sarowar
Stefanie Sciacca
Katelyn Steenvoorde
Svati Zaven
A dozen college-bound and graduate study-level EMS volunteers have received $1,000 awards through 2021 EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) scholarship programs. The 92-year-old nonprofit New Jersey State First Aid Council represents approximately 17,000 EMS volunteers affiliated with 233 EMS agencies throughout the Garden State. Eligible cadet grant applicants were high school seniors planning to attend college this fall, and who are active participants on EMSCNJ-affiliated squads. There were 40 applicants this year; six were chosen. A selection committee at Raritan Valley Community College reviewed the applications and chose the winners. Six Gail Lawrence Memorial Scholarships were awarded to graduate students who are EMSCNJ-affiliated volunteers pursuing medical-related careers. The $1,000 grants were established in memory of Lawrence, a mobile intensive care nurse, advanced practice nurse and educator with Rutgers University. The 2021 EMSCNJ Cadet Scholarship recipients: Adam Bandler, Morganville First Aid and Rescue Squad, Binghamton University (SUNY), Finance major, career goal: attorney. Olivia Buchholz, Berkeley Heights Volunteer Rescue Squad, Cornell University, Allied Health Sciences major, career goal: physician. Jack Fetzer, Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps, Fairfield University, Computer Science major, career goal: software developer. Ilan Fitterman, Ringwood Ambulance Corps,
University of New Hampshire, Homeland Security major; career goal: Secret Service. Natalia Kruk, Cranford First Aid Squad, University of Miami, Biology major, career goal: pre-med, pre-physician assistant. Adele Shepin, Jefferson Township Rescue Squad, Rutgers University, Biology, Pre-Dental major, career goal: dentist. The 2021 Gail Lawrence Memorial Scholarship recipients: Erin Maura Crum, Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Rutgers University, Goal: doctorate in nursing - family nurse practitioner in emergency medicine Jeffrey Mathew, Bergenfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps; Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences / RWJMS, Goal: MBS in biomedical sciences. Tamanna Sarowar, Bergenfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps, NY Institute of Technology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Goal: doctor of osteopathy. Stefanie Sciacca, Mahwah EMS, Pennsylvania State University, Goal: physician assistant. Katelyn Steenvoorden, Wyckoff Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Goal: physician assistant. Svati Zaven, Point Boro First Aid Squad, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, Goal: doctor of medicine. - Fire news photos courtesy of Sylvie Mulvaney, EMSCNJ
FireNews.com
Fire News, September 2021, Page 33
Obituary
Egg Harbor’s Robert DeVinney Robert ‘Bob’ DeVinney of Egg Harbor Township, passed away suddenly after a brief illness on July 1, 2021. He was 68. Born to the late John and Helen DeVinney on February 6, 1953, in Atlantic City, he was raised in Pleasantville and graduated from Pleasantville High School class of 1972. He was a retired Atlantic County Sheriff’s Officer after 25-plus years of service. He also was employed at Storybook Land over the years, and enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren there. He was a volunteer for many years with the West Atlantic City and Farmington Fire Companies along with the Pleasantville and Egg Harbor Township Ambulance Squads. Bob was a hardworking man who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, camping, NASCAR, trains, riding his Harley, and being a “Mr. Fix It” to anyone and everyone he could help. He is survived by the mother of his daughters, Lynn DeVinney of Mays Landing; three daughters, Michele
Palmieri (Charles) of Folsom, Krista Libertore (Joseph Jr.) of EHT, Casey Foster (Keith) of Mays Landing; two sisters, Eileen DeVinney (Mary) of Las Vegas (NV) and Kathleen Manera (Angelo) of Bridgeton; six grandchildren, Stephen Trythall (Amber), Joshua Trythall (Sarah), Aubrey and Raelynn Foster, Gianna and Anthony Libertore; two great grandchildren, Erika and Stephen Trythall, Jr., along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. A visitation was held on July 8 with a service immediately following at AdamsPerfect Funeral Home. Donations may be made to The American Diabetes Association or to The American Heart Association in his memory. An honor guard was provided by the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Department, and all five companies of the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department in full dress in his honor. Condolences to his family who are members of Egg Harbor Township Emergency Services. - Fire News photo provided
Page 34, Fire News, September 2021
FireNews.com
Paterson 3-Alarmer
On May 2, 2021, at approximately 0645, Paterson firefighters from the 3rd Battalion were dispatched to a fire on Berkshire Avenue. Engine 2 arrived quickly from their fire house a few blocks away to find fire in a two-story mixed-use frame building. One line was stretched and quickly extinguished what appeared to be an exterior fire. However, as searches were being conducted, conditions on the interior began to deteriorate and command reported smoke showing from the roof. Deputy Chief Calamita requested a second alarm as additional lines were stretched into the building and trucks opened the roof. Fire was found traveling the walls and in the attic, briefly venting out the vent holes before being knocked down. A third alarm was requested for manpower as companies were faced with extensive overhaul to open up and look for any hidden fire. The fire was placed under control at just before 0900. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
