Two Hamilton firefighters were transported with breathing issues from a house fire.
See story on page 8
Fighting EV Fires
SOPpoints to be considered when fighting electric vehicle (EV)fires.
See story on pages 12 & 14
Franklin Laundromat Destroyed
Heavy smoke and fire on arrival, as fire destroys the business but is kept from extending to others.
See story on page 28
Ridgefield Park Fire on a Very Hot Day
Twenty-five firefighters were treated on-scene for heat exhaustion; none required transport.
See story on page 38
2024
Burn Foundation Art
This year’s Wildwood artwork is a combination of the work of two artists.
See story on page 43
OSHANew Rules Proposal Update
The NYS Association of Fire Districts’ latest news on OSHA’sproposed Emergency Response Standard.
See story on page 44
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29 Displaced by Passaic 3-Alarmer
On June 23, 2024, Passaic Fire Dispatch started receiving multiple calls fora fire on High Street. On arrival of Battalion Chief Kovacs, he found occupants trapped on the second-floorporch and requested a second alarm. The crew stretched lines, as two residents were rescued from the roof and two others from an adjacent fire escape. The fire continued to spread and command requested a third alarm for fire in three buildings. Numerous mutual aid companies responded to the scene and, with six handlines and fourelevated masterstreams the fire was knocked down in about 90 minutes. Approximately 29 people from five families were displaced from the three buildings which were heavily damaged, three firefighters suffered non-lifethreatening injuries. - Fire
News photos by Pete Danzo
Trenton Firefighters Make Rescue During 2-Alarmer
Cover Story Abandoned Hospital Fire in Trenton
Ahomeless person who was squatting in a vacant rowhouse was rescued by Trenton firefighters afterthe structure caught fire in the early hours of May 21, 2024. Engines 10, 6 and 7, Ladder4 and Rescue 1 were dispatched just after0115 in response to a 911 call reporting that smoke was coming from the boarded-up three-story home on Seward Avenue. Battalion Chief Kevin Rice and first-due companies arrived to find heavy fire showing out the front second-floorwindows, with flames impinging on overhead powerlines. The all-hands signal was called sending the balance of the first alarm (Engine 1, Ladder2 and Special Services 1) to the scene. Firefighters forced entry and, during theirprimary search, located the squatter, who was removed to the exteriorand transported by Trenton EMS to a local hospital fortreatment of smoke inhalation. Several residents of the occupied Side B exposure were also evacuated. Asecond alarm, which sent Engine 8 to the scene, was ordered foradditional manpowerbefore the blaze was finally brought undercontrol. Amutual aid aircascade unit from Hamilton was also special-called to the scene.
Firefighters in the state capital fought yet another fire in the abandoned MercerMedical Centercomplex on May 25, 2024. The Trenton Fire Department has responded to several fires there overthe years since the old hospital on Bellevue Avenue was closed in late 2013. This blaze, reported about 1535, was located on the first floornear the front of the facility. Crews from Engines 8, 9, 10 and 1, Ladders 4 and 1, and Rescue 1 managed to quickly knock down the flames using a 2-1/2-inch hoseline with an additional 1-3/4-inch put to work formop up operations.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Clifton Responds to a Garage Fire
On May 27, 2024, Clifton Engines 1, 2, 5 and 6 and Ladders 2 and 3 responded to Grove Street for a building fire. Units arrived to a well involved garage fire in the rearof the home. Engine 6 stretched lines to the rear, knocking down the majority of the fire. Extensive overhaul was conducted.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Campground Brush Fire in Wading River
The volunteerfire companies of Weymouth and Mays Landing were dispatched at 1149 on June 17, 2024, to the Wading RiverCampground forthe report of a brush fire neara garage. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived and established command. Upon investigating, command requested an additional watertenderfrom Laureldale as there was a large pile of brush burning. Two lines were pulled from the Mays Landing tender onto the fire and a backhoe was brought in to break the pile apart. Companies remained on the scene until all fire was extinguished, with no extension to any structures. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by Ken Badger
2 FFs Injured in Hamilton Blaze
Two members of the Hamilton Township Fire Department (HTFD) were transported to a local hospital afterthey reportedly began experiencing respiratory issues while helping fight a house fire on May 31, 2024. The blaze on Sutton Drive was reported shortly before 2045, as several Hamilton companies were just clearing from an earlieralarm on the otherside of town. Multiple 911 calls and a column of smoke visible in the evening sky signaled a working fire to responding companies. Engine 10-1 arrived to find heavy smoke and fire showing from the B and C sides of the two-story dwelling. The fire was brought undercontrol within a half-hour. The injured firefighters were provided oxygen on scene and transported by Hamilton and Robbinsville EMS, accompanied by paramedics, to Capital Health Regional Medical Centerin Trenton. - Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe
MontclairQuickly Stops Church Fire
On May 27, 2024, all Montclair Fire companies were dispatched to George Street fora reported fire in a church. Units arrived to find a fire in the soffit of the porch on the exteriorof the church. Crews quickly knocked down the fire. A mutual aid RITresponded from West Orange. The fire was placed undercontrol 15 minutes after arrival and the cause of the fire was being investigated.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Multi-Aid Gas Leak Alarm at Hamilton Mall
The volunteerfire companies of Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing, assisted by the Cardiff and Scullville Fire companies, from Egg HarborTownship in March 2024, aftera report of a gas leak at the Hamilton Mall. All responding companies were requested to bring in fans forventilation, with command requesting Cardiff foradditional fans and Scullville fortheir hovercraft to provide large ventilation. The leak appeared to be in the vicinity of the old Sears store. South Jersey Gas arrived to assist in determining the location of the leak. Crews continued theirventilation and the scene was eventually turned over to South Jersey Gas. - Fire News photo by Kenneth Badger
Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Annual August Barbecue and Entertainment
It was another warm sunny day at the NJ Firemen’s Home for our second annual barbecue on August 3, 2024. The prediction was for it to be in the low 90s so we could not keep the residents outside too long. Surprisingly, the temperature in the shade was not that bad and under all the shade trees, the residents were able to enjoy the barbecue feast.
Under the direction of Chef Prince of the NJ Firemen’s Home kitchen staff, he mastered the grill and cooked a feast for the residents, our members and all the invited guests. Everyone enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers, bockwurst, barbecue ribs and chicken, sweet corn, macaroni salad and cole slaw.
For dessert, we had two birthday cakes as we celebrated two members birthdays. Member Frank Glucker turned 98 and member George Steiger, who turned 101. Singing Happy Birthday was a nice way to end the meal. Our entertainment was the talented Kelly Carpenter, who sang many popular songs and ballads that afternoon.
It was a nice afternoon of families catching up, residents having a wonderful afternoon getting out of the home and enjoying the sunshine and an excellent meal and members of our organization enjoying our last event of the summer.
As the residents went inside as the temperatures rose that afternoon, we cleaned up and are now preparing for our October meeting and our Annual Christmas Party in December. It may be the summer, but even Santa has to prepare in advance. His annual trip to the home is less than five months away and time goes by fast.
We want to thank everyone from the fantastic staff at the NJ Firemen’s Home, to our members and to all the family members who joined us that afternoon for making it such a special event for everyone who attended. It was another successful barbecue.
- Submitted by Justin Watrel, Vice-President Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association
Being Prepared forEVFires
By Matthew Pruitt EVGoat01@gmail.com
Firefighters are no strangers to new technologies. In fact, most of us pride ourselves on being able to improve our tactics and strategies using the most up-to-date, state-ofthe-art equipment. It’s really no different in any other industry. Since the late 90s, car manufacturers around the world have been working tirelessly to bring consumers an engine that is safe, energy efficient, and great for our environment. The internal combustion engine evolution from the Model T, to the Prius and now to fully electric vehicles has created a need in the fire service to be prepared for some of the most dangerous, albeit somewhat low frequency, fires we’ve ever encountered. The infrequency and increased risk of electric vehicle fires makes it impossible to ignore and necessary to train for.
Extinguishing the typical, traditional car fire is pretty straightforward. We pull a bumper line, and go to work. Electric vehicle fires are vastly different, as you will read in this article. Extrication of a patient trapped inside an electric vehicle is delicate, for sure. You have to be extremely careful when cutting on an electric vehicle. The orange cables may be charged if the car’s safety mechanism has failed. Also the top of the battery tray, which is basically the entire floorpan of the car, could be charged. And, in my experience, thermal runaway can begin as soon as an external source - the accident or your extrication equipment - damages the battery, so you have to consider how long it has been since the accident happened. In addition, when fighting EV fires, it seems that the more water we put on them, the longer they burn. That’s true actually because the water only cools the battery cells, and will simply slow down the fire, causing it to last for hours and hours because, when burning, lithium-ion batteries create their own oxygen. Just like a fish is able to “breathe” underwater, so is a lithium-ion battery. You can’t drown either one of them.
lably hot and propagates to the next cell, eventually spreading to all the cells in the module. Even at the point of ignition, there may be no way to know where, exactly, the problem starts.
Also, unlike traditional car fires, when an EVis in thermal runaway, the motor (s) lock down. As you may know, an electric car’s battery weighs at least 1,000 pounds by itself. When added to the regular weight of a car, you’re looking at a paper weight that weighs up to 9,000 pounds. This excessive weight of a car with locked wheels presents a plethora of difficulties, to say the least.
So, what do we do? How do we fight an EVfire? What are the safest and most effective tactics? After having the opportunity to train on live EVfires in controlled environments, and having responded to multiple EVrelated incidents, we have been able to test some strategies. Some have worked better than others. I’d like to share with you some of the most impactful takeaways from my experiences.
(this is only the latest measurement of an EV fire temp, it could be hotter).
First and foremost, you will need to always make sure to wear your gear when approach-
“The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire”
The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire. You need to be aware that Li-Ion batteries in thermal runaway can give off hydrogen fluoride gas. When we apply water to the gas, it becomes hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid is a colorless, odorless liquid that is acutely dangerous. It can damage your eyes, your lungs and your skin. The danger is that hydrofluoric acid is slow burning. You may not have symptoms of exposure for several hours.
Another difference is that getting water to the origin of the fire is nearly impossible. The composition of an electric vehicle battery tray looks something like this: thousands of battery cells are put together in water-tight sets called modules, the modules are placed into a battery tray which is encapsulated in a watertight shell. There are vents in the tray to allow smoke and gases to escape, but the vents will not allow water or foam inside the tray. Think of a battery failure inside the tray like a winddriven fire. One damaged cell gets uncontrol-
ing a wrecked electric vehicle, even if you don’t see fire or smoke. I have witnessed an electric vehicle go from not burning, to fully involved, within minutes. On the other hand, I have also seen this progression take several hours. Time starts the instant that the battery is damaged, not when you learn about the incident. When you respond to an EVemergency, you have to be dispatched, get out of the station and make it to the scene. You may not know the exact timeline, so it’s always best practice to be safe and wear your gear. It is also important to consider how hot an EV fire actually is. An electric vehicle that is in thermal runaway can burn as hot as 2700°F
Now, you’re on scene, have your gear on, and you’re ready to put some water on the fire. What’s best? In my experience, I have found the use of an EVblanket to be vitally important. The EVblanket is designed to limit the oxygen available to the fire, but the burning batteries create their own oxygen so the blanket itself will not extinguish the fire. Before deploying the blanket, you must knock down the fire on the inside of the vehicle just like you would on a traditional car fire. This step immediately begins cooling the car so that it will be less likely to burn through the blanket. Once the car is extinguished, throw the blanket over the vehicle. Make sure to throw the blanket high so that it is not damaged by sharp edges or parts of the vehicle that may be protruding. EV blankets, depending on the brand (Continued on page 14)
Being Prepared for EVFires...continued
and type, come in a variety of sizes. Depending on the brand of blanket that your department uses, your team may need to open up the blanket before use to mark the front, rear and center. Some brands of EVblankets have already marked the front and rear of the blanket for you, which would save you a step. Sometimes EV blankets are rectangular, rather than square, which can cause difficulty on scene if you have not previously marked them. Once the blanket is deployed and covering the car, tuck it under the vehicle to keep it from blowing up so that it will continue to limit the oxygen that the fire can use. It is very important to keep the blanket cool. The best way to do that is with the line you used to knock down the fire initially.
I also recommend, and have had great success with, an EVnozzle placed under the car with a second line. Again, you are not trying to put out the fire, you can’t. The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable. You do not really want to cool the battery too much because it will only prolong the incident. I recommend using an EVnozzle with low gallonage because it cools the battery while still allowing it to burn safely.
from page 12
Using these tactics have been successful for us in the past. I am often asked about the time frame between extinguishing the fire and moving the car from the scene. Although there is no good way to determine with absolute certainty that it is completely safe to move the damaged vehicle, I do have a few tips and tricks that might help. The first, and most obvious, is that there is no visible sign of fire, including no evidence of smoke or off-gassing. Make sure, too, that you no longer hear the sounds of cells popping (sounds like popcorn in the microwave). In addition, it may be helpful to monitor the temperature reduction of the battery using a Thermal Imaging Camera. Although nothing is for certain, in my experience, my crew and I have been able to safely transport a damaged vehicle after a couple of hours. This may seem like a long, drawn-out event, but this method is much quicker than submerging the vehicle into a large, watertight container - a separate method of EVfirefighting that can take several days to weeks before the vehicle is safe and is not necessarily feasi-
ble in a crowded city or on the side of the interstate.
“The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable.”
Still, if you move too quickly then the threat of reignition is very great due to the stranded energy in the batteries. Stranded energy is when the batteries have not expelled all of their energy. Since the cells are already damaged, stranded energy in them creates a greater threat of reignition. This threat is why it is important that you escort the tow. If the car reignites while being towed, disconnect it from the tow truck so you don’t have two car fires. Knock down the fire and then continue the tow, Make sure to tell the tow yard management that the car you’re leaving with them is an electric vehicle.
Ultimately, the decisions you make on a fire scene belong to you and your department. These suggestions have worked for my department. We have had great successes when dealing with EVincidents using these strategies and tactics. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at EVGoat01@gmail.com.
Scrap Pile Fire
The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Wisteria Street, and the James Garrett and Sons Scrap Iron fora report of a fire. Firefighters arrived to find a large area of scrap burning but were able to contain it with several hoselines and lots of overhaul. Several tank loads of waterwere used to contain the fire to the immediate area.
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Fire News photos by Ken Badger
2025 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) Conference
Fire Prevention Week 2024, observed from October 6 to 12, emphasizes the importance of fire safety education and awareness across communities. This annual event, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), serves as a critical reminder of the dangers of fire and the necessary precautions to prevent it. This year’s theme focuses on “Cooking Safety Starts with You,” highlighting the significant role of safe cooking practices in reducing home fire incidents, as kitchenrelated fires remain a leading cause of household fires. Fire Prevention Week 2024 encourages families, schools, and organizations to actively engage in fire safety drills, learn about fire hazards, and understand how to respond effectively in the event of an emergency.
The importance of Fire Prevention Week in Emergency Management cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in reducing the risks associated with fires by promoting proactive safety measures and ensuring communities are well-prepared to handle fire-related emergencies. By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, this weeklong campaign supports the broader goals of Emergency Management, which include risk reduction, disaster readiness, and public safety. Fire Prevention Week not only educates the public but also reinforces the collaboration between emergency services, local governments, and the community in preventing fires and mitigating their impact, ultimately contributing to a safer, more resilient society.
The 2025 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA)
Conference is set to be a cornerstone event for emergency management professionals and first responders across the state. Scheduled from April 7 to April 11, 2025, at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, this conference will bring together experts, practitioners, and community leaders dedicated to enhancing New Jersey’s preparedness and response capabilities. The NJEPAConference is designed to deliver critical information, services, and skills to every community and first responder organization in the state.
Akey highlight of the 2025 NJEPAConference is the Call for Papers, which opens on September 1. This call invites professionals from across New Jersey to share their expertise and experiences. Whether you have developed unique training programs, managed significant incidents, or have innovative ideas for pre-planning and exercising, your contributions can help elevate the state’s collective emergency preparedness efforts. By presenting at the conference, you have the chance to influence and inspire your peers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the emergency management community.
We encourage you to consider presenting in Atlantic City next April by submitting your ideas through our Call for Papers! Together, we can advance our profession. Even if you don’t submit, we still look forward to seeing you at the conference.
Visit www.NJEPA.org for details and information as it develops.
Landscape Trailer Ablaze in Lawrence Twp.
Initial reports came in as a vehicle fire, but it turned out to be an open landscape trailerburning, along with assorted tools, equipment and surrounding brush. The Lawrence Township Fire Department responded on June 18, 2024, around 1647, to Hazelhurst Avenue. They arrived to find the area blanketed with smoke but no fire. Aquick search revealed the fire was off ZoarAvenue on the grounds of the old LavenderFarm. Uncertain how much waterwould be needed, first-due Rescue 202 laid 700 feet of five-inch hose from the front of the property down a dirt track to a position nearfire. Second-due Rescue 203 completed the split lay, dropping 500 feet of five-inch hose to the closest hydrant at Zoarand Hazelhurst. Flames were quickly knocked down and prevented from causing any significant damage to an adjacent enclosed trailer.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Well, That Was a Busy Day
The day afterthe Fourth of July, firefighters keep busy with a mutual aid call, five alarm calls, one wire down call and a shed fire on Stevens State Park Road. Car52 arrived and reported a well involved 10 x 20 shed. Engine 59 and Tender57 arrived and quickly knocked down the fire with theirbumperline. Rescue 97 from Flanders assisted with overhaul. The were no injuries and the fire was underinvestigation by the Mt. Olive Police and Fire Marshals office.
- Fire News photo by Kevin Maloney
2-Alarmer Damages 3 Homes in Chambersburg
Amid an ongoing heat wave, Trenton firefighters fought a twoalarm blaze that damaged three homes in the Chambersburg section of the capital city on June 23, 2024. It was a hot and humid evening - the sixth consecutive day of temps in the 90swhen the fire was reported. Ladder2 arrived to heavy fire venting from Side D of ElmerStreet with flames impinging on Side B of Elmer(the left half of a similarduplex). The all hands signal was transmitted forthe balance of the first alarm. Due to the exposure problem a second alarm was quicky ordered. While the bulk of the fire was knocked down within 15 minutes, the blaze was not declared undercontrol until 1935. Among those who fought this blaze were several probationary firefighters working theirfirst shift since completing theiracademy training. - Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Hamilton CarFire on Millville Avenue
The volunteerfire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale along with Hamilton Township Police and EMS responded to Millville Avenue and Rainbow Drive on June 29, 2024, fora report of a vehicle fire. Mays Landing Assistant Chief Ken Badger, Jr., arrived and blocked Millville Avenue south, while police blocked it north. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived and established
command fora single automobile fire with fire in the engine compartment extending to the driver's area and all occupants out of the vehicle. The first arriving Mays Landing engine’s crew stretched a line onto the fire while otherfirefighters opened up the trunk. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Single Story House Fire in Bayville
Berkeley Township Fire Stations 17, 18 and 20, along with the FAST from Forked River, responded to Raymond Place in the Bayville section fora reported house fire. Crews arrived to a single-story, single-family home with moderate smoke showing and confirmed
the working fire. An offensive attack was initiated and crews were able to place the fire undercontrol 10 minutes afterarrival. Extensive overhaul was conducted to prevent furtherextension and all searches were negative. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Garbage Truck Fire
Dumped to Extinguish
Asmall fire in a garbage truck created a big mess in Lawrence Township on June 25, 2024. The driverof the Interstate Waste Services truck was making his rounds when he noticed smoke emanating from the pile of garbage in the hopper. In an effort to save the truck itself, the driverdecided to dump the load of burning trash in the street. As he did, however, the tailgate rose and came in contact with overhead powerlines. Ironically, this all happened almost directly in front of the Slackwood Fire Company’s firehouse. Firefighters were alerted to the blaze at 0730 and PSE&Gwas requested to respond to deenergize the powerlines. A neighborhood resident already had a garden hose in service on the smoking pile when firefighters and PSE&Garrived. While the fire was quickly extinguished, the cleanup of the dumped trash from the street took several hours. - Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
ManchesterExteriorFire Quickly Taken Down
ManchesterFire companies were alerted of a reported house fire on Patrica Court on June 25, 2024. First arriving units had visible fire showing from the front of the home and a working fire was transmitted. The first two engines were able to get wateron the fire quickly and it was determined that the majority of the fire had
remained on the exteriorof the home. Extensive overhaul was conducted to ensure there was no extension into the interior. Amutual aid truck company from Joint Base McGuire responded to the scene to assist.
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Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Franklin Laundromat Destroyed by Fire
Two alarms were transmitted before a smoky blaze in a laundromat was brought undercontrol in Franklin Township on June 15, 2024. The fire was on Franklin Boulevard and both Franklin District 3 fire companies were dispatched, togetherwith Somerset Fire for RITduties. Heavy smoke was issuing from the laundromat, located on one end of a strip mall, when first-due crews arrived. Asecond alarm was quickly struck, calling Middlebush, New Brunswick,
North Brunswick, Bridgewaterand Bound Brook to the scene. An aggressive interiorattack was initiated, with heavy fire conditions reported throughout the laundromat and above the drop ceiling. Multiple aerial ladders were raised and crews were sent to vent the roof. The laundromat was gutted but only minimal damage was reported to the carwash located next door.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
Pleasantville CarFire
On July 25, 2024, units were dispatched fora reported vehicle fire. On arrival, a well involved vehicle was found on the street in a residential neighborhood. Engine 1’s crew led off with a single 1-3/4 inch line. The fire was quickly extinguished and was underinvestigation. There were no reported injuries.
- Fire News photo by Eric ‘Doc’Moran
LDH Hose Task Force Drills in EHT
The Egg HarborTownship (EHT) Fire Department along with the Atlantic County Large DiameterHose Task Force held a joint drill on June 26, 2024, at the Offshore Industrial Park in EHT. The purpose of the drill was to confirm that the watersystem would be sufficient to feed three aerial devices. A2000-gpm engine was put on the hydrant with all otherengines being 1500gpm, one 1250gpm two stage, with another2000gpm at the end supplying the aerials. Acritique at the end of the drill determined 1250-1500gpm was obtained. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe, Wallace Bakely and Ken Badger
Monroe Celebrates 75th Anniversary
The Monroe Township Station 51 in Middlesex County celebrated their75th anniversary on August 10, 2024, undersunny skies with 24 fire departments participating in an inspection parade judged by the New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Association.
- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Multi-Car MVA
Rolloverin
Toms River
On July 20, 2024, Toms RiverFire Stations 25 and 26, along with Silverton EMS, were dispatched to the intersection of Clifton and Batchelorfora reported multi-car MVAwith a rollover. Engine 2501 arrived to one vehicle on its side with no entrapment. Powerwas secured to all vehicles and units remained on scene while the tow company uprighted the car.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Paramus Firefighters Fight House Fire
On May 16, 2024, Paramus crews were dispatched to the area of Terhune Avenue and East Midland Avenue fora reported fire. On arrival, companies found a fully involved minibus adjacent to East Midland Avenue with the fire extending to a home. Asecond alarm
was requested bringing the remaining Paramus companies to the scene. Several hoselines were stretched as searches of the home were conducted, and the fire was quickly knocked down. The Bravo side of the home sustained fire damage. - Fire News
photo by Peter Danzo
Rochelle Park Bedroom Fire
In Rochelle Park, at around 2000 on June 16, 2024, the Rochelle Park Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire. On arrival, command reported a working fire on the second floorof a two-story private dwelling. Mutual aid was called from Maywood and Saddle Brook and additional mutual aid responded from Hackensack and Paramus. The fire was located in a bedroom on the second floor and at 2020 interiorcrews reported making good progress. No injuries were reported, and the fire was placed undercontrol at 2042. - Fire News photos by
Pete Danzo
25 Firefighters SufferHeat
Exhaustion – None Transported
Heavy fire heavily damaged a home in Ridgefield Park on July 21, 2024. The Ridgefield Park Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on College Place. On arrival Chief Lynn reported heavy fire out the 2nd floorwindows of a 2.5 story frame and requested a 2nd alarm. E-1 advanced a 2” handline to the 2nd floorand started attacking the fire as primary searches were conducted. Additional hand lines were put into operation as the fire spread to the attic. With all company’s heavily engaged, a 3rd alarm was requested to the scene. The main body of fire was knocked down. However, crews continued to open up, chasing hot spots and pockets of fire. Over25 firefighters were evaluated and treated by EMS forheat exhaustion on the scene, due to high humidity but none required transportation. The cause of the fire is undetermined.
- Fire News photo by Pete Danzo
Hackensack Handles
2nd
Story Fire
On August 4, 2024, Hackensack Fire Dispatch transmitted an alarm fora smoke condition in a house on Railroad Avenue. On arrival, companies investigated and reported to command a heavy smoke condition on the second floor. Engine 5 immediately stretched a handline into the building as command transmitted the working fire, bringing a FASTfrom Teaneck and a truck company from Englewood. Crews quickly located the fire in a second-floorbedroom closet and extinguished all visible fire. No injuries were reported and the fire was quickly placed undercontrol. It is reported that the homeownerhad a small fire involving a dorm style refrigeratorwhich they had extinguished. It is believed that the fire unknowingly had spread to the wall in the closet.
- Fire News photos by Pete Danzo
Egg HarborBoarded Up House Fire
The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Washington Avenue on April 21, 2024, fora report of a structure fire. Cardiff Assistant Chief William Danz III arrived on the scene first, reported a working fire, established command, and requested additional assistance from the Bargaintown Fire Company. Command had the first-due Cardiff engine take a position on the bravo side. Farmington Engine 1543 used a nearby hydrant and stretched an LDH to supply the scene. Multiple hand-
lines were deployed. The house was boarded up and along with contents was a total loss. The fire was investigated by the EHTFD Fire Investigatorand the EHTPolice Cause and Origin unit. Also responding was Atlantic City Electric, South Jersey Gas, EHT EMS, and the Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary, and investigators from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety along with theirarson sniffing dog.
- Fire News photos by Cindy Badger
MATHENYMOTOR TRUCK COMPANYAND HUDSON VALLEYFIRE EQUIPMENT, LLC, NEW JERSEYDEALER ASSIGNMENTS
Seagrave is excited to announce that effective this date, New Jersey will now be represented by two existing Seagrave dealers for Sales, Service and Parts in addition to our factory service facility in East Brunswick.
Matheny Motor Truck Company, established in 1922, has served the transportation needs of businesses, along with local and state government agencies for over 100 years. Tim and Monica Matheny are the fourth-generation owners of Matheny Motor Truck Company and leads their team that operates out of multiple locations in West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, Kentucky, Kansas, and Florida.
Matheny Motor Truck Company (dba Matheny Fire & Emergency) is the authorized representative for Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC for the following areas:
Delaware: All counties
Maryland: All counties
New Jersey: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem.
Matheny Motor Truck Company consists of four Divisions: Automotive Dealerships, Commercial Truck Dealerships, Towing & Equipment Dealerships, and Fire & Emergency Dealerships. For more information about Matheny Fire & Emergency, please call 877378-2781 or email us at firetrucks@mathenymotors.com
Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC is located in Putnam County, New York, Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC (HVFE) is a company that offers a variety of services to help you enhance the purchase, construction, and delivery of your new emergency vehicle. With a commitment to excellence and safety, we provide sales and maintenance solutions that ensure communities are equipped with the best emergency vehicles available.
Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC (HVFE) is the authorized representative for Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC for the Tri-State Area:
Having a partnership with Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC enables us to offer a full line of apparatus to fit your fire department’s needs.
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/.
us at update@cfsi.org if you have any questions.National Fire and Emergency Services Awards Applications OPEN; Apply NOW. Award Applications Are Due by October30, 2024.
The four awards include:
Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. Sponsored by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, the award recognizes leaders at the national level for their contributions in advocating for our nation's fire and emergency services in the areas of public education, prevention, and response.
The Congressional Fire Services is accepting applications for its 2025 national fire service leadership awards. The four awards, which will be presented at the 2025 National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on February 13, 2025, recognize individuals and organizations for leadership in fire and life safety. CFSI will cover the travel costs for the recipients to attend the dinner program. Please contact
CFSI/Masimo Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Awards Program
Sponsored by CFSI and Masimo, the award recognizes fire departments for innovations in the delivery of emergency medical services.
Dr. Anne W. Phillips Award for Leadership in Fire Safety Education Sponsored by CFSI and the International Fire Service Training Association, the award honors public safety educators for outstanding achievements in fire safety education.
SenatorPaul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. Sponsored by CFSI, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, VFIS, and ULFire Safety Research Institute, the award recognizes organizations for implementing programs that address firefighter health and safety, using NFFF's 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives as the award criteria.
Up Close & Personal
The LowerBank VolunteerFire Company of Washington Township in Burlington County dedicated theirnew engine on June 22, 2024, to long time Member Paul Seybold and family.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Somers Point Chief Michael Sweeny and Atlantic County Fire Photographer, Dennis Sharpe, at the Chapman Boulevard fire.
- Fire News photo by Cindy Badger
New Cardiff Assistant Chief Craig Thompson at a Coolidge Avenue fire on June 27, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Wildwood firefighter Ed Neill with Wildwood’s classic 1970s Mack MB at the CooperRiverMuster on August 4, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Cardiff Fire Company’s ‘JJ’Fricano at the EHTlive burn on May 9, 2024. Congratulations to JJ and his wife for being parents forthe second time and extra congratulations to his father, Cardiff Safety Officer, John Fricano, on becoming a grandfatherforthe second time. The Fricano family owns Story Book Land at Black Horse Pike in Cardiff.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Burn Foundation Artists Combine Talents for2024 Artwork
For the 44th Year of his partnership with the BURN FOUNDATION and its annual fundraiser at the NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ, artist Joseph M. Getsinger (semi-retired) has teamed up with very talented 3D Artist, Jarryd Ley. They are creating something very unique for this year’s Burn Foundation fundraiser at the September Fireman’s Convention. Over the years Joe’s work has depicted many aspects of emergency response featuring firefighters and their equipment, their history, and various evolutions of the first responder experience. The 2024 painting will be a combination of young and more seasoned art talent. Jarryd Ley posed for last year’s painting, “LASTRUN,” in his grandfather’s gear to honor him. His grandfather was Donald ‘Pops’Ley, Sr., who was a lifetime member of the Woodbury Heights Fire Department, Mayor, Councilman, Vice President of First Fidelity Bank and Korean War veteran serving in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant. Sadly, his grandfather passed last year.
This year’s art project ‘Slaying the Beast’is sponsored in full by David Russell, President, FIRE & SAFETYSERVICES Ltd., South Plainfield, NJ, and Pierce Manufacturing. David Russell and his father William Russell have supported the Burn Foundation and the artist for over 25 years. David Russell has also financed the printing of the raffle tickets.
With the aid of (retired) Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr., Fire Chief Philip Drangula and members of the Cinnaminson Fire Department the photo shoot was completed with a Pierce aerial fire truck. This photoshoot was aided by Drone Photographer and Deputy Chief Ira Schonfeld and Firefighter Amanda Mahler who was on the top of the aerial fire truck during the photoshoot attended and directed by Getsinger.
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 aid burn patients, their families and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four 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 since 1980.
This year’s sponsor for the Collector Pins is First Harvest Credit Union. Vice President Kenneth Barnshaw was proud to sponsor the
collector pin for the fifth year to support the work of the Burn Foundation. From its original roots in Camden County as South Jersey Federal Credit Union, it has expanded its presence all the way to the Jersey Shore. Ten fullservice locations in New Jersey include the corporate office in Deptford, NJ with branches in Camden, Glassboro, Pleasantville, Voorhees, Mt. Laurel and Vineland. In addition, they serve their members in Philadelphia and Williamsport, PA.
John McCann, Administrator for the Burn Foundation, reported that last year over $14,800 was raised with the donation raffle of the’Last Run’Giclee canvas and 24 signed and numbered limited-edition prints.
Burn Foundation, 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, PA 19103 supports the greater Delaware Valley through education and support of five regional Burn Centers. You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.or or call 215-545-3816. Special thanks to Administrator John McCann for his support and dedication through the years.
OSHAUPDATE
As you are aware, the New York State Association of Fire Districts, under the leadership of 2nd Vice President David Dennison has been following the progress of OSHA’s proposed amendment of the Fire Brigade Standard, which would create a new Emergency Response Standard (29 CFR Part 1910 [Docket No. OSHA-2007-0073] RIN 1218-AC91 Emergency Response Standard].
Mr. Dennison has led a committee on which other association officers, directors and staff have participated, who have, requested that OSHA reconsider the proposed rule. The committee and other fire service groups have been successful in obtaining two extensions of the comment period. This has resulted in many comments being submitted to OSHAwhich you can read on its webpage.
Most recently, OSHAhas published a notice of a public hearing in the Federal Register [2024-16126.pdf (govinfo.gov)]. It has noted that: “OSHAis scheduling an informal public hearing on its proposed rule ‘Emergency Response Standard.’The public hearing will begin November 12, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time.”.
It notes further:“Informal public hearing: The hearing will be held virtually and will begin on November 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. ET. If necessary, the hearing will continue from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. ET, On subsequent weekdays.”
Preliminary information on how to participate in the public hearing is also provided on the site:
“Notice of Intention to Appear (NOITA). ANOITAmust be submitted electronically at https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking. Follow the instructions online for making electronic submissions. Those who file a NOITAmust also submit electronic copies of all documents that they intend to use or reference during their testimony. Information about how and when to submit these materials will be provided at the time of registration.”
We will continue to keep our membership informed on this important matter.
GSPCarFire Doused
The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Bargaintown from the Egg HarborTownship Fire Department responded to Garden State Parkway at milepost 38.1 southbound on August 2, 2024, fora report of a vehicle fire. Firefighters arrived to find a fully involved vehicle that was quickly brought undercontrol. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
1974 - Triboro Association
The photo is of the 1974 Triboro Association Fire Apparatus and Ambulance Squads. The Triboro Association consisted of New Milford, Oradell and RiverEdge Fire and Ambulance departments. -
FC; Submitted by
FD
Photo by Paul Kaske, New Milford
Glen M. Thorsen, ex-Chief Fairfield
CarCrashes Into Home in Holiday City
On August 2, 2024, Manitou Park and Pinewald PioneerFire Companies responded to a home on Spanish Wells in Holiday City foran MVAwith a carinto a house. Units arrived to a single vehicle MVAinto a single-story home. Nearby residences were evacuated, as the carhad struck the homes gas meterand gas was leaking. The Ocean County EMS CoordinatorMAB was requested to shelterevacuees and the Station 20 Technical Rescue Team responded to shore up the garage.
