Crews arrive to heavy fire showing from three-story home.
See story on page 14
Thanks to police throwing the emergency cut offs, a gas station pump fire is kept under control.
See story on page 18
Vineland Gets a New Chief
City of Vineland Fire Department
Mark Ciafologio sworn in as the seventh Chief of Department.
See story on page 20
On Approach Pilot Spots Forest Fire
Heading to Trenton Mercer Airport the pilot calls in a fire alongside I-295 near Rte. 31.
See story on page 25
Obituary
Hopatcong’s Henry Sardina III
See story on page 34
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Monmouth Fire Museum Holds Christmas Photoshoot
In preparation of the holiday season the Monmouth County Fire Museum held theirfirst Christmas Card photoshoot with one of theirengines and Santa. This fundraiserwas very popularso be sure to be on the lookout next yearforthe announcements of the 2025 event. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
The West Paterson Fire Department, serving Woodland Park, operated at a second alarm structure fire on Marcellus Avenue on October21, 2024. The garage fire quickly spread to the house’s roof; the brick garage roof collapsed before crews brought the fire undercontrol.
- Fire
Garage
Collapse and House Fire in Woodland Park
News photos by Ronald Bombaro
FirefighterHealth ResearcherSara Jahnke Receives NFFF’s GlatfelterDistinguished Service Award
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) has recognized Dr. Sara Jahnke as the latest recipient of the Foundation’s Arthur J. Glatfelter Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Jahnke serves as Director of the non-profit Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research at NDRI USA, Inc., where she leads research projects aimed at understanding the health risks faced by firefighters — and developing evidencebased interventions to mitigate those risks. Known for her dedication to translating scientific findings into practical solutions, Dr. Jahnke has made significant contributions to understanding and addressing the unique health challenges individuals face in the fire service. Jahnke also serves as president of Science to the Station: AHealth and Wellness Alliance and sits on Board of Directors of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. “The Glatfelter Award is not just a recognition of Sara’s past accomplishments; it is a testament to her ongoing commitment to the entire emergency services community,” said Troy Markel, NFFF Board Chair. “With over a decade of research experience on firefighter health, she continues to promote the ideal of keeping firefighters healthier—thus reducing preventable line-ofduty loss.”
Left to right: FRCE Managing DirectorFrank Leeb, NFFFBoard ChairTroy Markel, GlatfelterAward
Recipient Dr. Sara Jahnke, NFFFCEO Victor Stagnaro
Dr. Jahnke’s work has focused on a range of health concerns such as the health of female firefighters, firefighter mental health, and the risks to firefighters of injury, cancer, cardiovascular events, and substance use. These factors
are key considerations in the advancement of the efforts of the NFFF — and the fire service as a whole—to reduce preventable line-of-duty deaths.
The NFFF created the Arthur J. Glatfelter Distinguished Service Award to recognize exceptional service to the NFFF by men and women who continue in support of Glatfelter’s legacy as a champion of the fire service. In 1969, Glatfelter created the Volunteer Fireman’s Insurance Services (VFIS), the first company of its kind to meet the insurance needs for volunteer firefighters. Glatfelter was also an enthusiastic advocate for the NFFF and its mission and served for many years on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Dr. Jahnke was presented with the Glatfelter Award by Chair Markel during the recent Science to the Station NERDSTOCK 2024 powered by FRCE (First Responder Center for Excellence), which took place October 4 – 6 at the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, MD.
“Sara’s unwavering dedication to the health of our firefighting community is truly inspiring,” added Markel. “With over 100 publications and numerous awards of excellence to her name, she embodies the spirit of service — and reminds us of the profound impact one person can have on many.”
Ewing Blaze Claims Life of Elderly Resident
An elderly man was killed by a fire that destroyed his home in Ewing Township, MercerCounty, during the early morning of November13, 2024. Ewing careerand volunteerfirefighters were dispatched at 0518 hours in response to several 911 calls reporting a house fire with entrapment. The second floorof 34 Bernard Drive was engulfed in flames when West Trenton Fire Co. Chief Mike Anderson arrived. He immediately struck the second alarm, calling in mutual aid from Pennington, Hopewell Township, Lawrence and
Trenton. Firefighters made multiple attempts to enterand search the dwelling but those efforts were hampered by the heavy fire conditions. By 0542 hours firefighters transitioned to a defensive operation and the aerial masterstream from Prospect Heights' Ladder Tower31 was put in service, joining the several 1-3/4-inch hoselines that were already flowing water. The blaze was declared undercontrol at 0632 hours. The victim's body was recovered from the ruins several hours later. - Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Massive Fire Destroys Vacant Paterson House
Paterson operated at a twoalarm vacant house fully involved on East 20th Street. Crews were hampered by intense flames and exposure to homes on both sides.
- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro and Peter Danzo
House Fire Quickly Controlled in Trenton
Trenton firefighters made quick work of a house fire that broke out late in the evening on October26, 2024. The blaze was reported on Walnut Avenue. Initially dispatched were Engines 7, 6 and 10, Ladder4 and Rescue 1. Heavy smoke was pushing from the top floorof the 1-1/2-story dwelling when firefighters arrived, resulting in the balance of the first alarm being dispatched. Also, responding to the scene was Engine 1, riding as a manpowercompany due to theirapparatus pump being out of service. Three hoselines were placed in service and the bulk of the fire was quickly knocked down. Battalion Chief Dave Smolka declared the fire undercontrol at 2349. While there were no reported injuries, eight residents (five adults and three children) were displaced by the fire.
- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe
Wawa in Toms RiverEvacuated
On October22, 2024, Brick Fire Stations 21 and 22 responded to the Wawa on Brick Boulevard fora reported electrical odorinside the store. The building was evacuated as crews investigated the odor, finding the source to be the HVAC unit which was then shut down.
- Fire News photos by
Building Facade
Collapse in Paterson
The Paterson Fire Department operated at a building collapse on Ryle Avenue on October23, 2024. The vacant brick building collapse brought down cable lines.
- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro
Mark Rosetti
Quick Stop at Halloween Blaze in West Windsor
Arapid response by first-due firefighters was credited with limiting damage during a townhouse fire in West Windsor, MercerCounty, on Halloween night, October31, 2024. West Windsorcareerfirefighters manning Engine 45 and crews from the West Windsor(Station 43) and Princeton Junction (Station 44) volunteerfire companies were dispatched to 55 Caleb Lane at 2151 hours in response to multiple 911 calls. Engine 45 arrived to find smoke showing from the front of the structure, resulting in the full first alarm being struck and mutual aid from Plainsboro, East Windsor, Princeton and Hamilton being dispatched. Fortunately, the blaze was quickly knocked down with the first hoseline and most of the out-of-town units were recalled priorto arrival. The fire, which was reported to have been started by a candle, was officially declared undercontrol at 2200 hours.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Firefighters Battle Blaze in Wildwood
Wildwood was dispatched to the 400 block of West Andrews Avenue fora report of a dwelling fire. Chief 3 arrived on scene and reported heavy fire showing from the rear of a three-story single-family dwelling. Squad Co. 3 (D Platoon) began an aggressive interiorattack, as heavy fire took possession of all three floors and a second alarm was transmitted. The fire was wind driven by strong, gusty winds. North Wildwood Ladder2 arrived and began searches. Additional arriving off-duty Wildwood firefighters along with Wildwood Crest, Rio Grande, Stone Harbor, and Villas departments also responded. Erma provided coverage for the island along with the Anglesea and North Wildwood, Middle Township Ambulance and Wildwood Crest EMS. Wildwood Police assisted on scene as well. The fire was brought undercontrol in just under30 minutes. The home suffered heavy fire damage and the fire was under investigation by the Cape May County Fire Marshal’s Office. There were no injuries to civilians orfirefighters. Fire units operated on the scene forjust over two hours.
- Photo courtesy City of Wildwood FD
RiverEdge FD Hosts Several Events
October was a busy month for River Edge Fire Department, many community events, including visits to local schools for Fire Prevention, they hosted an “Old Timers Night” at the firehouse where 25 past members from all over the country were invited back for dinner, and members visited the Boonton Fireman’s Home.
The River Edge Fire Department continued its training, this including training at Bergen County Fire Academy and Bergenfield Training Center where the department did live burn training exercises. New Milford and Oradell firehouses performed Forcible Entry, extrication and chimney fire drills at the River Edge firehouses. Also in October a visit by Tim Klett, retired FDNYon hoarding conditions. Members also attended training at Jersey City University, organized by Chief Charlie Lind and by NJ Deputy and Battalion Fire Chief Association where some of the most talented speakers in the fire service spoke on various topics. On top of all the activities, fire calls were up for the year. At the end of October, the department assisted on the rescue of woman that jumped into the Hackensack River. Chief Schlossberg stated; “Our members are getting the job done and this makes our officers and I very proud of the men and women that make up the River Edge Volunteer Fire Department.”
- Submitted by Chief Robert Schlossberg, River Edge VFD
Exciting Training Opportunities and General Session Spotlight for2025 NJEPAConference
As we prepare for NJEPA’s upcoming 2025 conference, April 7-11, we’re thrilled to share a glimpse of what's in store. This year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most robust yet, with training, breakout sessions, and a compelling general session that you won’t want to miss.
Certification Courses with CEUs Available
Our lineup of certification courses is designed to meet the needs of fire, EMS, and emergency management professionals. Whether you’re seeking to expand your expertise or fulfill continuing education requirements, we’ve got you covered. Fire and EMS attendees will be pleased to know that many offerings include CEUs, making this a valuable opportunity for professional growth.
Breakout Sessions Led by Local Experts
This year’s breakout sessions will feature subject matter experts from New Jersey and beyond who bring firsthand experience in managing response and recovery both within the state and across the nation. These sessions will provide practical insights into several critical areas, including:
• All-Hazard Preparedness
• Domestic Preparedness
• Health Care/Public Health
• Policy and Planning
• Response & Recovery
• Weather-Related Events
Whether you’re focused on honing your all-hazard response capabilities or improving
your organization’s resilience to weatherrelated challenges, these sessions will offer actionable takeaways.
Spotlight on the General Session: Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
We’re proud to highlight this year’s general session, which focuses on the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024. This catastrophic event was triggered by the cargo ship Dali losing power and colliding with the bridge, leading to its rapid collapse.
Though quick action prevented a greater loss of life, six construction workers tragically perished, and the supply chain and financial repercussions are still being felt. With New Jersey’s critical infrastructure of bridges and ports, this session is a mustattend for anyone involved in emergency management, planning, or response.
At the session there will be a panel of experts who were directly involved in the response to this incident. Their firsthand accounts and lessons learned will provide valuable insights to strengthen planning and response efforts in our own communities.
Make sure to mark your calendar and keep an eye out for more conference updates as we get closer to April! This year’s conference is your chance to learn, network, and advance your expertise in emergency management. For more information, please visit the Conference Information page at www.njepa.org
Fire at Gas Pump in Lawrence
Firefighters from Lawrence and Hamilton townships teamed up to combat a vehicle fire right next to the fuel pumps at the Lawrence WaWa on October15, 2024. Police arrived and confirmed a working fire. Apickup was fully engulfed in flames, with heavy black smoke rolling out from beneath the fuel island canopy. Luckily, police had already activated the emergency shutoff forthe fuel pumps. Mutual aid was requested and Hamilton’s Engine 10-3 and Truck 10-1 responded to assist Lawrence’s Rescue 202 and Engine 201. Tank waterfrom the Lawrence apparatus was quickly exhausted, prompting Engine 10-3 to lay a supply line to a nearby hydrant. Afterthe bulk of the fire was knocked down, Truck 10-1’s aerial was raised to inspect the canopy and confirm it had not been damaged.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Woman Refuses to Leave Burning Home in Trenton
On November16, 2024, a Trenton woman, who refused to leave her burning home, made emergency responders’job even more difficult. When firefighters arrived at the blaze on Chase Street they found the woman still inside the smoke-filled home, with an active fire burning in the kitchen. The woman would not evacuate and was so uncooperative with firefighters and EMS personnel that police had to get involved. Once the woman was subdued and removed from the fire
building, she was transported by ambulance to a local hospital to be treated forsmoke inhalation. The fire was quickly brought under control by crews from Engines 10, 7, 3 and 8, Ladders 4 and 1, and Rescue 1. Also on scene assisting were firefighters from Engines 1 and 6, who responded to provide extra manpowerdue to theirfront-line apparatus being out of service forrepair.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
New Chief of the Department at Vineland FD Sworn In
Mark Ciafologio of the City of Vineland Fire Department was sworn in as the seventh Chief of Department in a ceremony on October31, 2024, by MayorAnthony Fannicci. Speeches were made by Congressman Jeff Van Drew and members of the department. Following his swearing in, Chief Ciafologio noted, he was chief foronly 19 seconds when the city had an incident and the Bridgeton and Millville fire departments responded to the call.
- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Bargaintown Single Car RolloverMVA
The Bargaintown VolunteerFire Company responded to Fire Road on August 10, 2024, fora report of an MVAwith rollover. Firefighters arrived to find a single passengervehicle on its side with no entrapment. Firefighters secured the vehicle, opened the hood and disconnected the battery and then stood by until the vehicle was uprighted. The cause of the crash was underinvestigation by the Egg HarborTownship Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Up Close & Personal
Northfield Lieutenant Bruce Cummings, Jr,. training on the new ladderrecently.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
NJ State Fire Museum and Memorial Fundraiser
On October6, 2024, the New Jersey State Fire Museum and Memorial held a photoshoot forphotographers to come out and photograph the Museum’s fleet. This fundraiserhad nearly 40 pho-
CFSI Symposium and Dinner
The 35th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner is expected to draw over 1,500 fire and emergency services leaders from across the country. Participants will attend seminars, conduct meetings with their members of Congress and network with their colleagues.
The Symposium and Dinner will be held on February 12 and 13, 2025 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC.
At the conclusion of the two-day event, you will join together in the Washington Hilton ballroom to hear national political leaders paying tribute to the dedication and commitment of our nation's firefighters and emergency services personnel.
Individual tickets are $475 and include a seat at the dinner as well as access to all seminars. If you order before 12/1/24, the Early Bird Sale ticket price is $425. If purchasing 10 or more tickets, please see the table level options on our website. Order tickets at https://cfsi .org/annual-symposium-and-dinner/tickets/.
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Newest Board Member
John Butler has been appointed to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation as their newest board Member.
John Butler is the Fire Chief for Fairfax County Government, Virginia. He is a paramedic and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Baltimore, a master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University and certificates from Harvard University, the National Fire Academy (NFA) Executive Fire Officer Program (EFO), and the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI). Chief Butler served as the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) President in 2023-2024, holds the Chief Fire Officer, Chief EMS Officer, Chief Training Officer, and Fire Marshal designations from the Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC). He is chairman of the NFA Board of Visitors; and is a board member of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association. Chief Butler is a retired U.S. Marine with 20 years of active and reserve United States Marine Corps service, including two combat tours.
Wildwood
5th Annual Muster
Single CarMVA with Entrapment in Buena Vista
September15, 2024, was the 5th Annual Antique Fire Truck Muster held at the Wildwood Convention Center. Awards were given out in multiple categories and following the mustera lights and sirens parade was held throughout Wildwood.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
The volunteerfire companies of East Vineland and Richland from the Buena Vista Township Fire Department in Atlantic County responded to Tuckahoe Road and Derosa Avenue on July 3, 2024, fora report of MVAwith entrapment. East Vineland Chief Anthony Corsiglia established command and reported one female driverentrapped. Firefighters and EMS performed a doorpop and removed the occupant who was evaluated, stabilized and transported by BLS.
- Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Pilot of Plane Spots Forest Fire in MercerCounty
The first report of a forest fire burning in MercerCounty on November3, 2024, came from an unlikely source. It was shortly before 1720 when the pilot of a plane on approach to TrentonMercerAirport radioed airtraffic control that he could see a fire in the woods alongside Interstate 295, nearPennington Road (Route 31), in Hopewell Township. Airtraffic control alerted airport firefighters who, in turn, notified the county’s communications center. Multiple 911 calls then began coming in from motorists on the highway reporting smoke and flames visible in the woods. Fire companies from Pennington Borough, Hopewell Borough and Hopewell
Township were dispatched. Firefighters initially had some difficulty getting to the blaze but were finally able to access it with brush trucks from the end of Drake Lane. Mutual aid from Ewing and Lawrence townships was called in, along with multiple units from Division Aof the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. By the time Forest Fire Service personnel had completed back burning operations and used a tractorplow to strengthen containment lines, the fire was estimated to have involved about 4.5 acres of woodland.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
New Jersey State Firemen’s Association Update
By Joseph T. Hankins Vice President
As Vice President of the NJSFAI am grateful to the Fire News for allowing us space in their publication to update our over 52,000 members. As well a those firefighters who have put off membership for whatever reason.
I encourage every Firefighter to contact their Local Relief Secretary, President, or Chief and verify your Line number appears on their master List.
This year the NJSFAwill work with every Local Association with Acampaign initiated by 1St Assistant Secretary Brian Martone called KNOWYOUR LINE NUMBER. Every New Jersey Career and Volunteer Firefighter between the ages of eighteen (18) and Fifty-Seven (57) should be encouraged to join their local relief association.
At the September Convention a resolution was voted on by the Delegates and Life Members present to allow Siblings to receive the burial benefit provided by the NJSFA. At the November Executive Committee meeting this issue was referred to the Compendium Committee Chaired by Executive Committeeman Glenn Roemmich from Gloucester County. Glenn has been an advocate for this change as it was sparked by an association in his county. I fully expect there
will be a prompt meeting of the Compendium Committee with a recommendation to the Executive Committee for their February meeting.
Many Firefighters confuse this burial benefit with a Life Insurance Policy, it is not. There is no beneficiary listed. It cannot be directed in a will, it is not part of any estate, it cannot be directed by an executor of an estate and cannot be borrowed against. As such it does not become part of the firefighter's estate and is not subject to estate tax, federal income tax, or any inheritance tax. This benefit is to ensure that every member of this association can be provided with a decent burial. This vote may cause the program to receive an update and possibly revamping of the current regulations.
Arecent case handled by the advisory board was a person who was found deceased in their vehicle behind a local establishment, it appeared the person was living in the vehicle and had no know family. Alocal police officer believed the person was at one time a volunteer fire fighter in the town. As a result of the local fire department and the state office the firefighter was confirmed to be a Qualified Member of this association and our office working with the local Executive Committee person and a Past officer of this association, the firefighter was laid to rest
JOSEPH THANKINS Vice President 1711 Routh 34 South Wall Township NJ 07727 Phone 732-798-8137
Email: JosephH@njsfa.com
properly and not in a potter's field. Members are encouraged to visit our website www.njsfa.com for information on benefits and programs.
Know yourLine Number
5 Departments Participate in WaterSupply Drill
On October5, 2025, Fire Companies from Ocean, Monmouth and Burlington counties took part in a large scale watersupply drill in Lacey Township.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Looking Back Museum Fleet
Hamilton Township - 2005
A90-year-old man was killed by a three-alarm blaze that ravaged his home in Hamilton Township, in the frigid, early morning hours of Jan. 31, 2005. Two firefighters were briefly trapped, resulting in a Mayday being transmitted. - Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe
South Egg Harbor- 1960’s
Looking Back at the South Egg HarborVolunteerFire Company in Galloway Township in the early 1960s. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Pleasantville - Mid 1970’s
Looking back at the City of Pleasantville Fire Department in the mid 1970s when they ran this Maxim that replaced the 1950 International and the Pirsch that replaced a
(Left to right) Northvale, South Amboy, Lavallette, Apline Trucks.
The Lavallet and South Amboy are now owned by the New Jersey Firefighters Museum - Fire News photos by Chris Denton
problem ridden Oren. The station, located on Delilah Road, is now an auto parts store. - Fire News photo by Dennis C Sharpe
3 Departments Respond to Hamilton CarFire
MVAwith Entrapment in Egg Harbor
The volunteerfire companies of Bargaintown and Cardiff from the Egg HarborTownship Fire Department responded to the intersection of Mill and Orchard Roads on November7, 2024, fora report of an MVAwith entrapment. Firefighters were advised while responding, there was a majorfuel spill. Firefighters arrived to find a vehicle and a seniorcitizen transport bus with a person trapped in the vehicle. Bargaintown firefighters worked to free the occupant from the auto while Cardiff firefighters worked to contain the fuel leak which was estimated at around 45 gallons. The occupant of the vehicle was extracted quickly and was evaluated and transported by EHTEMS. The cause of the crash was under investigation by the EHTpolice. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The volunteerfire companies of Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing from the Township of Hamilton responded to the Hamilton Mall in July, fora report of a vehicle fire. Laureldale Engine 1833 arrived and the crew pulled two lines and began hitting the fire. Mays Landing tanker1819, supplied 1833 with tank water. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews switched to foam. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Athree-alarm house fire in Passaic brought in crews to fight a working fire in the top floorof the house. Crews worked with two aerials to fight the fire.
- Fire News photos by Ronald
3-Alarm House Fire in Passaic
Bombaro
Stolen SUV Recovered from Passaic River
Paterson Fire Department Rescue 2, Passaic County Sheriff’s Dive Team and Citywide Towing, assisted the Paterson Police Department with the removal of a stolen vehicle submerged in the Passaic Riverat Westside Park on October6, 2024.
- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro
Carvs. Backhoe
The volunteerfire companies of West Atlantic City and Farmington were dispatched to Black Horse Pike in West Atlantic City at approximately 0200 fora report of a motorvehicle crash with entrapment. Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe, responding from anotherincident, and requested the City of Pleasantville Fire Department to respond. Firefighters arrived to find an automobile wedged underthe rearbucket of a backhoe that was doing overnight work on the pike. Aftera quick assessment, the lone passengerwas removed through the passengerside of the vehicle and turned overto EMS. The cause of the crash was underinvestigation by the EHTpolice. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Trenton Responds to RolloverMVA
Trenton firefighters were dispatched aftera vehicle occupied by an elderly couple flipped onto its side on October13, 2024. The MVAwas at the intersection of South Olden Avenue and Hamilton Avenue. Engine 7, Ladder4 and Rescue 1 responded, along with a mutual aid ambulance from Ewing Township and Capital Health paramedics. Fire and EMS personnel arrived to find a Buick Encore resting on its passengerside. Bystanders had already helped the elderly occupants out of the wreckage through the sunroof. Luckily, theirinjuries proved to be minor in nature. - Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe
Mini Van a Total Loss in Paterson
Paterson Fire Department Engine 7, Ladder2, Battalion 3 and RAC Unit operated at a fully involved minivan fire on Maple Street, by the Great Falls on October26, 2024.
- Fire New photos by Ronald Bombaro
Jackson Forest Fire Burns 400 Acres
On November6, 2024, Jackson Fire Companies along with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service responded to Stump Tavern Road fora reported forest fire. New Jersey has been experiencing a recordbreaking drought. The fire quickly spread and eventually consumed nearly 400 acres. Two Ocean County Structure Protection Task Forces were called in to assist the efforts. The fire was determined to be started by illegal ammunition being used at a nearby firing range.
- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
CarAblaze on Route 37 in Toms River
On October9, 2024, the Toms RiverFire Department responded to a fully involved vehicle fire on Route 37 eastbound. Engine 2631 was first to arrive and stretched theirbumper line to knock down the fire. There were no exposure issues as the fire was quickly knocked down.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Fire at Used CarDealership in Trenton
Firefighters in the state capital responded to a blaze that damaged the office and shop building of a small used cardealership on October4, 2024. It was early evening when the Trenton Fire Department was alerted to the blaze at Mid-Town Auto Sales, located on South Broad Street. Heavy smoke was billowing from the two-bay structure when first-due companies arrived and firefighters quickly put a pairof 2-1/2-inch hoselines in service. Underthe direction of Battalion Chief Dave Smolka, crews from Engines 3, 7, 10 and 6, Ladders 2 and 4, Rescue 1 and Special Services 1 managed to bring the blaze undercontrol just undera half hour.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Obituary Hopatcong’s Henry Sardina, III
On November21, 2024, Captain Henry Sardina, III, with the Hopatcong Fire Department was leading an in-station drill when he suffered an apparent heart attack. He went unresponsive, CPR was immediately performed, and he was revived. He was then transported to the hospital but suffered additional complications and cardiac emergencies in the days that followed. He passed away while still hospitalized on Sunday, November24, 2024.
