Serving NEW JFire, ERSEY Serving Rescue
VOLUME 14, 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 2019
- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti See story on page ?. pageby6 ?????????? - FireStory Newson photo
Never Forget 9/11/2001
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Fire News, September 2019, Page 3
In this issue... 36 Families Displaced in Paterson Starting with a third alarm on arrival, a fire extends to both adjoining home. See story on page 10
Fatality in East Orange A disabled person is found deceased inside a Wayne Avenue home. See story on page 17
Ridgefield Gas Explosion Crews arrive to a home obliterated by a gas explosion, and recover a person from the wreckage. See story on page 24
Up Close and Personal A closer look at first responders from around the state. See pages 30-31
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES 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 2019, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Self-Extrication in Mays Landing Crews arrive to a car into the woods and on its side, but the driver gets out. See story on page 35
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Old School Guys Still Rule Ramsey Fire Department “Pirates” are still on the job. See story on page 37
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 36 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 36
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of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention 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 2019
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Can You Handle This? I was only in my department for a few days when I got on my truck and the driver of the engine turned to me and said, “Looks like we have a buyer!” At the time, I had no idea what that meant. Yes, I was nervous as I responded to my first call with “smoke showing.” That exhilaration of responding to a call where you know you are going into battle never changes. As you become seasoned, your thoughts change. With experience, a different mindset takes place, as you think about your assignment for a call. Experienced firefighters listen to the call and know exactly what they plan on doing when they get to a working fire. The same is true for our emergency medical crews. They respond in different modes, depending on the reports they receive at quarters. Any call description with the word “child” in will raise the adrenalin of the responding crew. No matter how much time you have in your department, certain phrases like “occupants within” or “overturn vehicle, occupants trapped” raises your heartrate as a first responder. No matter how experienced you get, the word “child” probably makes you nervous. In August, there were multiple mass casualty shootings in the United States. The El Paso shoot-
ing took the lives of 22 people (as of this writing) and wounded dozens more. The second shooting in Dayton, but for the almost instantaneous reaction of two police officers, still took the lives of nine people. Then there were the deaths of seven people (with 46 wounded) in Chicago over a weekend, which — because of the mass shootings — went virtually ignored. This editorial is not about the politics of guns. It is about you, the first responder who walks into battle to assist our police officers who are on scene and need our help to care for the wounded. Is your department prepared to handle a mass casualty shooting with multiple victims? Are you prepared to act automatically to save the lives of others, while caring for your own safety? Let’s face it, you cannot handle or take part in a mass shooting if you are not trained to do so. Over the past few years, I know that many of you have attended classes and a drill or two on dealing with the active shooter. You and your department are urged to sign up for Active Shooter Training. Make sure you are receiving local emergency alerts. Every month Fire News runs an ad for BNN — the Breaking News Network. As a responder, you want to know ahead of time that there may be a situation of
which you should be aware. Visit the Homeland Security website and familiarize yourself with mitigating the impacts of an active shooter incident. Departments must have an attack plan with their local police department. Since the police department is typically the first leg of emergency response for active shooter situations, plan ahead by having a joint drill that has a definitive plan to care for the wounded. Kudos to the departments that have worked with local law enforcement on this topic. Kudos to the departments and ambulance corps that have trained their members to use protective vests and helmets should they enter into a hostile situation. Whether the call is for a neighborhood gun fight or a mass casualty shooting, my question to you is, “Are you prepared?” - Dennis
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Cover Story
Multiple Responders Hurt at MVA
On July 30, 2019, West Orange Police, Engine 4, EMS Rescue 2 and New Jersey State Police responded to Route 280 east for an MVA. Engine 4 had one person entrapped and unconscious and requested more units. As the additional units responded, a dump truck barreled through the accident scene striking multiple civilian vehicles, two NJSP cars, Rescue 2, and Engine 4, then overturned on its side and hit an SUV and Rescue 2, which was pushed forwarded into Engine 4, and the cab of the dump truck burst into flames. Multiple firefighters and two state troopers were injured. A Mass Causality Incident was declared, requesting any available EMS and fire units. Five firefighters were transported, one in critical condition, and two state troopers were transported in serious condition; an unknown number of civilians were also injured and transported. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Car Fire on the GSP The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Cardiff responded on May 27, 2019, to the Garden State Parkway southbound at the Fire Road exit for a motor vehicle fire. Bargaintown Tender 1528 stretched a one-inch line. Firefighters opened the back of the vehicle and unloaded personal belongings of the occupants of the vehicle who were returning from a weekend in Wildwood. The fire was quickly brought under control. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Page 8, Fire News, September 2019
East Windsor Handles Structure Fire
The East Windsor Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Sloane Court on May 11, 2019. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista
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36 Families Displaced in Paterson
In the early morning hours of June 25, 2019, the Paterson Fire Department received numerous calls for a fire on Summer Street. The first arriving battalion chief requested a third alarm and that utility companies respond. The fire from the original building spread to adjacent homes on both sides. The fire was eventually brought under control in the wee hours of the morning of June 25, with 36 families displaced; the Red Cross was notified. Multiple fire companies from surrounding communities in Passaic and Bergen counties covered the city and also replaced crews that were first on scene because of heat exhaustion. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton and Jon Tenca
Page 12, Fire News, September 2019
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Paterson 3-Alarmer with Exposure Problems
On April 30, 2019, the Paterson Fire Department reposed to East 26th Street for a fire. Engine 1 arrived to a fully involved 2-1/2 story residence with exposure issues on both sides. Deputy 1 arrived and a second alarm was struck. A defensive attack was initiated on the main fire building and crews entered both the Bravo and Delta structures to check for and knock down any extension. The fire eventually reached threealarms bringing all Paterson companies to the scene. Mutual aid came from Fair Lawn, Passaic, Clifton, Totowa, Little Falls, West Paterson, and Hawthorne. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Good Stop in Village of Smithville
Volunteer fire companies from the Galloway Township Fire Department and the City of Port Republic were dispatched on May 8, 2019, to Village Green in the Village of Smithville for a report of a fully involved structure. The Village of Smithville is a large complex of restored shops and restaurants, gift stores and antique businesses sprawled over several acres. The fire was located in “Through the Looking Glass� with heavy fire showing from the sec-
ond floor. Firefighters stretched a pair of lines into the structure and made a good stop with the fire being under control within 10 minutes. Responding were Oceanville, Bayview, Pomona, Germania, South Egg Harbor, Absecon, Galloway Township EMS, Galloway Township Police, Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Page 14, Fire News, September 2019
Hamilton MVA, Medevac
The volunteer fire companies of Weymouth, Mizpah, Laureldale and Mays Landing, along with the Township of Hamilton EMS and Police, were dispatched on April 17, 2019, to milemarker 23.2 on Weymouth Road in the Township of Hamilton for an MVA with entrapment. A passerby saw the crash and dialed 911 and based on that report, a large response was dispatched. The vehicle came to
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rest in the woodlands after striking a large tree. Firefighters and EMS, removed the passenger door and underbrush from around the vehicle, and then the driver was removed onto a long board and placed into the ambulance where he was transported to a waiting Medevac on Route 322, covered by Mays Landing. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Saddle Brook Wetdown
On July 27, 2019, Saddle Brook Fire Department Engine 2 hosted a wetdown for their new 2019 Pierce Enforcer Pumper. Surrounding communities came by and baptized the new truck. The members of Engine Company 2 would like to thank everybody who came and showed their support and had a good time. - Fire News photos by Chris 'Doc' Denton
Page 16, Fire News, September 2019
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Long Job at Ventnor 3-Alarmer
The City of Ventnor Fire Department responded to the 6500 block of Ventnor Avenue at approximately 0500 on July 6, 2019, for a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire showing from the upper floors. Crews were hampered by the location of the building and utility lines running in the front. The fire grew to three alarms
before being brought under control several hours later. The cause of the fire was under investigation and Ventnor Chief Mike Cahill had command. Also responding were Margate, Longport, Atlantic City, Pleasantville, Ventnor Police and EMS along with South Jersey Gas and Atlantic City Electric. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, September 2019, Page 17
Fatality at East Orange Blaze
Umm, Maybe You Want to Evacuate
On July 9, 2019, the East Orange Fire Department was dispatched to a residence on Wayne Avenue for a fire with a trapped occupant. Companies arrived to a 2-1/2 story wood frame with heavy fire on the first floor and heavy smoke throughout. A second alarm was struck bringing all East Orange companies to the scene along with mutual aid from South Orange and Irvington. Crews conducted a search and found a blind and disabled resident deceased. The fire was placed under control in a half hour. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
On July 15, 2019, crews responded to a column of smoke coming from the area of Beam Avenue. Crews arrived and located a fire in the rear of the residence. A second alarm was transmitted. The engine crew stretched a line and evacuated the home as the residents were still inside and were not aware of the fire. There was extension to the attic space so crews opened up the attic along with the exterior siding to douse the area. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Newark Fire Extends On June 30, 2019, Newark firefighters were dispatched for smoke in the area of Mount Prospect Avenue. Companies arrived to heavy smoke showing from a three-story vacant dwelling. The first-due engine found a bad hydrant in front of the dwelling, causing a delay in water supply. Truck companies had to force entry to the dwelling as heavy fire started venting from the first floor. Companies stretched to the interior and began darkening down the fire. The fire extended to the second and third floors before being brought under control. - Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CTFPA; and Robert Ladd
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MCFCA Hosts Picnic at Firemen’s Home The Morris County Fire Chief's Association (MCFCA) hosted a picnic lunch for the guests of the New Jersey Firemen's Home in Boonton on June 29, 2019. It was a beautiful sunny day and the guests had a chance to enjoy lunch outside in the picnic area and the pavilion. The menu included grilled hot dogs and hamburgers along with baked beans, potato salad, macaroni salad and corn on the cob. Members of the MCFCA prepared the lunch and assisted the guests and one of the members brought his personal fire truck. - Fire News photos courtesy the MCFCA
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Good Rescue, Good Patient
The Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company responded to Milepost 7S at the top of the eastbound ramp leading to the Garden State Parkway for a report of a motor vehicle crash with entrapment at 0315 on July 18, 2019. Cardiff Chief Gil Zonge established command and reported a one vehicle overturned with entrapment. The vehicle was between where the Expressway and the ramp begin and a drainage ditch is located. The vehicle was overturned, so command had crews begin stabilizing the vehicle. EHT Fire Chief Rob Winkler assisted by securing the vehicle with a strap to his chief car.
Seeing this was going to be a long extrication, command requested assistance from the Farmington and the City of Pleasantville. Cardiff firefighters removed the roof and found the single occupant inverted but secured by safety belts with her leg trapped. Firefighters took a ram and, from the interior of the vehicle, pushed the front of the vehicle enough to free the occupant (kudos to the occupant who never complained despite having a fractured femur). Also assisting were EHT Ambulance, EHT Police, New Jersey State Police. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fatality at Ridgefield Gas Explosion
On June 17, 2019, Bergen County Communications started receiving multiple calls for a house explosion on Abbott Avenue. Ridgefield Police officers arrived to find the home totally obliterated and the pile of debris heavily involved in fire, but could hear someone moaning from under the rubble. They were able to remove the lone occupant of the home who was trapped under the debris. The occupant was turned over to EMS with second- and third-degree burns. Upon arrival of the fire units, command reported the 2-1/2 story home completely destroyed with heavy fire showing. A second alarm was requested and all incoming engines were advised to grab hydrants. Multiple handlines and ground monitors were put into operation protecting the exposures until PSE&G could shut off the gas. Once secured, crews were able to knock down all the visible fire, although hot spots continued to burn under the debris. Companies remained on the scene for several hours. Several surrounding homes suffered damage from the explosion and radiant heat. The homeowner died from his injuries in the hospital the following day but no other civilians and no firefighters were injured. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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New Truck for Margate The City of Margate Fire Department in Atlantic County has put into service "Storm 2" which is a 1990 five-ton cargo truck M939 Series equipped with a Darley 350-gpm skid pump with a 400 gallon water tank, two 1-½ inch crosslays, one 350-gpm monitor, one 2½ inch discharge, one 1-½ inch discharge, four-inch intake, and two 10-foot sections of four-inch suction hose. It also carries various nozzles and adapters. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Maywood Car Carrier Fire
Just before 2330 on July 4, 2019, Maywood Engines 18 and 19 were dispatched for a truck fire on Route 17 south, opposite the Sunoco Station. While en route, companies were advised that patrol reported a wellinvolved car carrier. Rochelle Park Fire Department was also dispatched to a report of a fire on the dead end of Madison which turned out to be the same fire. Maywood Chief Gargagliano requested one Rochelle Park engine to continue an assist. Engine 19 used the deck gun to quickly knock down the heavy fire which involved the tractor and two cars on the second level. Two handlines with foam were then put into operation, however accessing the pockets of fire in the cars was difficult and due to the damage to the hydraulics it would have been dangerous to have members climb onto the carrier. Command requested Rochelle Park’s tower ladder to the scene allowing overhead access with a handline to complete extinguishment. The fire was brought under control in 30 minutes. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Quick Stop in Scullville
The volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded to Ocean Heights Avenue on July 15, 2019, for a report of a structure fire with dispatch advising that there were guns and ammunition in the structure. Scullville Chief Steven Prisament established command and requested a second alarm bringing all remaining Egg Harbor Township companies, RIT from the City of Somers Point, and Water Tender 1819 from Mays Landing. Firefighters who entered the structure made an aggressive attack on the fire with a quick knockdown. Due to the ambient temperature, rehab was provided by the EHT Ambulance Squad and the Cardiff, Bargaintown and Scullville Ladies Auxiliaries. Towards the end of the incident, relief was brought in from the Laureldale and Pomona Volunteer Fire Companies. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the EHTFD Fire Official and Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The 22nd Annual NJEP Conference Planning is Underway! For those of you that haven’t been keeping up with our social media, the New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Conference is moving to Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, for the 22nd Annual Conference to be held May 4 through 8, 2020. We’re very excited about the new venue and hope that you will enjoy the new experience! The planning has already begun for next year’s conference, even though we just finished wrapping up the last one. This year, we had over 1100 attendees, 50 training sessions and close to 45 breakouts, not to mention the 70 plus vendors in the exhibit hall. We hope to grow the conference further to bring more choices for training and breakouts and this will be the second year to participate in the Advanced Professional Series courses for those of you looking to receive this certification. Next year promises to be even bigger and better with the addition of outside exhibits where we will be able to accommodate large vehicles. Keep an eye out for our “Call for Submission” to fill out our training and breakout schedule. We expect the site to be open by September 1. Even if you don’t want to personally present, maybe there’s a topic you would like to see on our agenda. Let us know. Our website will be updated shortly and registration for attendees will open after the first of the year. Exhibitors may sign up any time to receive a premium location. Enjoy a happy and healthy balance of 2019 and we look forward to seeing you next May 2020!
Page 28, Fire News, September 2019
Newark Dwelling Fire
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Good Stop at Cardiff Car Fire
The Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company responded to Carver Avenue on June 9, 2019, for a vehicle fire. Crews were advised the fire was near a house. First arriving Engine 1512 pull two preconnects; one line to protect the house, the other to the vehicle. Firefighters knocked down the fire quickly with no extension to the house. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
New Milford Kitchen Fire On July 30, 2019, Newark firefighters worked a vacant house fire on Mt. Prospect Avenue. Crews arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the first floor on the alpha side of the dwelling, which quickly flashed as firefighters worked to make entry. The fire traveled through the walls of the home, reaching the second floor ceiling before being knocked down. Firefighters had to contend with a bad hydrant in front of the home, as well. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
On July 23, 2019, the New Milford Fire Department responded to a reported kitchen fire in the 200 block of Graphic Boulevard. The first arriving officer found fire from behind the stove starting to head up the walls and into the cabinets. The chief requested mutual aid. On arrival crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. Mutual aid came from Bergenfield, Oradell and River Edge. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Woodbury Heights Fire Stopped
Firefighters from the Woodbury Heights Fire Department responded on July 28, 2019, to Poplar Avenue for a structure fire. Assisting were the Borough of Wenonah and the City of Woodbury. Firefighters arrived to find fire venting from the roof of the garage of a single-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling. The fire travelled across the attic into the main house but firefighters brought the fire under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Firehouse Kitchen
Hot! Hot! Hot!
with Ray Cooney
On July 20, 2019, I attended an unbelievable event. I’ve written about it before, but this year was a little different. The event was named Town for Troops. This year, the event was an Iron Chef cooking competition that was raising money for a good cause. For those who don’t know how an Iron Chef competition works, let me explain. The contest consists of teams comprised of first responders and military personnel. Each team is given a list of ingredients they have — chicken, potatoes, miscellaneous vegetables and spices — plus one secret ingredient: Girl Scout cookies. Besides the secret ingredient, the factor that really made this fundraiser so much ‘fun,’ was the outside temperature was 104 degrees! (and, yes, the event was held outside). The day started with me leaving Long Island at about 0900 to make the trek up to Mountainville, New York, just south of Newburgh, about 100 miles from my little hamlet of Bayport on Long Island. Gerard, who works on my show and is helping promote Smoke Eater Wine, was meeting me up there. We arrived about 1130 and set up our table of wine for all to sample. I was informed the judging would start at 1400. Yes, of course, the great firefighter Ray was going to be a judge at this event. When 1400 rolled around, I was already drenched. The heat was unbearable and these poor contestants were slaving over their hot stoves and barbecues, but nothing was going to stop them from trying to win this event. Unfortunately, because of the heat only half of the people showed up from the year before. Yet, I have to say, the ones that were there were true supporters. Back to the judging. Remember I said I was informed that judging would begin at 1400? Well, that was for the people’s choice on the appetizer section of the contest. My judging didn’t start until 1730! I thought
I was going to die, but hey, firefighters push through. I cut Gerard loose at about 1500 and told him to get out of here because not too many people had a taste for wine on 100-degree day. The good news was the ones that did try it, loved it. At the end of the day, the winner of the contest was the Orange County Correctional Officers. Nope, the firefighters did not prevail. It’s OK because their chicken and potato dish was delicious. They mixed the Girl Scout cookies in their mashed potatoes and it was amazing. God bless all our first responders and, of course, our military for their sacrifices to protect others. On a side note, get ready all you Firehouse Kitchen fans! Firehouse Kitchen will be nationally in syndicated starting October 2019! To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. If you want your firehouse as a guest on the show, e-mail me firehousekitchentv@gmail.com. To find out where you can purchase your own bottle of Smoke Eater Wine, visit smokeeaterwine.com.
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Up Close & Personal North to Alaska On July 12, 2019, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service deployed 20 firefighters to Fairbanks, Alaska. The crew did a two-week tour to assist with wildfire suppression efforts. Alaska has been experiencing above average temperatures and minimal precipitation, making for a busier than average fire season. Though the Forest Fire Service travels throughout the country each year, this was their first trip leaving the lower 48. (Left to right): Bill Donnelly, Jr., Firefighter, Division C; Larry Birch III, Fire Observer, Division C; Dave Achey, Asst. Division Warden, Division C; Bill Love, Jr., Section Warden, Division C; Anthony Tobolski, Fire Observer, Division C; Nick Bleyhl, Fire Observer, Division C; John Knapp, Forest Fire Control Technician, Division C. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
(Left) Paterson’s Chief of Department talks to the press as the fire darkens down at a five-alarm fire on Summer Street on June 25, 2019. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com (Right): A Newark firefighter looks on after battling a stubborn vacant dwelling fire on Mt. Prospect Avenue on July 30, 2019. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
(Left) Firefighter and Driver Stan Kufel, aka, “The Great Mustache” of the Oradell Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
(Right) City of Estell Manor Firefighters Bob Lamkin and John Barber at the Maurice River fire on July 20, 2019. We don’t want to say it was hot, but they sweated enough to fill the tanker. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Up Close & Personal
Class 124 from the Monmouth County Fire Academy class Valedictorian with two of the Monmouth County Freeholders and the Monmouth County Fire Director Anthony Avilla who is also a retired Chief from North Hudson Regional Fire Department. Also in the picture is the Senior Fire Instructor for the Monmouth County Fire Academy. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Members of the Fairfield Fire Department pose for a quick picture after spraying the new Ramsey ladder and pumper with water. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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FF1 in Atlantic County FF1 training started in August at Atlantic County’s Anthony ‘Tony’ Canale Fire Training Center. Here, firefighter trainees from the Spring class were schooled in the various types and uses of fire extinguishers then were given hands on training. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
The Girl Scouts Visit
On April 8, 2019, the crew of Engine 6 met with local Girl Scout Troop 96357. - Fire News photos by Ron Laune, CFD
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Looking Back The Borough of Hi-Nella Fire Department in Camden County. - Fire News photo from the Dennis C. Sharpe collection
Belleville Basement Fire On May 15, 2019, the Belleville Fire Department responded to a 2-1/2 story residential wood frame on Cortland Street for a house fire. Engine 2 reported smoke showing from the basement and made entry. Shortly after fire started to self-vent from the basement windows and Car 2 arrived and immediately requested Nutley Engine and North Arlington Ladder to respond. The fire was knocked down within 15 minutes but heavy smoke remained throughout the structure and crews conducted extensive overhaul and opened up the first-floor walls to check for any extension. Bloomfield, East Orange and Montclair provided house coverage. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Homeowner Stops Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne. Mays Landing and Cardiff responded on June 30, 2019, to Regents Circle in the Victoria’s Crossing in the Township of Hamilton for a structure fire. Before the arrival of the fire department, the homeowner used a dry powder extinguisher an a garden hose to knock the fire down. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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NFFF NATIONAL MEMORIAL WEEKEND Every October, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) sponsors the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the official national tribute to those firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. This year’s Memorial Weekend will be held October 5 and 6, 2019, in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The weekend includes specialized activities for family members and culminates with a Memorial Service on Sunday morning. Thousands attend the programs and services each year. On Saturday evening, October 5, the families of the fallen gather for a Candlelight Service while landmarks across the country participate in “Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters.” This nation-wide landmark lighting event honors firefighters who died in the line of duty. Last year, some of the most iconic buildings and bridges, as well as over 100 fire departments across the country, participated in honoring our fallen. They included: One World Trade Center in New York City, the Bank of America Plaza in Dallas, the Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans, and the Willis Tower in Chicago. Lightings of buildings and fire department in red during the Candlelight Service on October 5, or any time during that week, would be an additional symbol of support and comfort to the families whose loved ones are being remembered. If you have any questions or would like more information about the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, please contact Donna Clark at dclark@firehero.org.
FIREHOUSE EXPO ANNOUNCES 2020 DATES The dates for Firehouse Expo 2020 have been set for July 21 to 25, 2020, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennesee. This will mark the fifth year the conference will be held in Nashville. “We’re happy to be returning to Nashville in 2020,” said Greg Toritto, Firehouse vice president/group publisher. “Firehouse Expo has traditionally had excellent attendance in the summer, so we’re returning to our roots. A July event provides firefighters an opportunity to bring their families along to enjoy all the fun the Nashville region has to offer while they attend our highly-respected training program and meet with the industry's top manufacturers and suppliers.” Local partners are very supportive of Firehouse Expo and its move to a July date. “The Nashville Fire Department and Davidson County are excited to welcome Firehouse Expo 2020 back to Music City,” said Nashville Fire Department Director Chief William Swann. “With the change in the date, our commitment to help this world-class event be successful remains the same. Nashville is the host city, but departments from across Middle Tennessee all work closely together to help Firehouse Expo come together to enrich the training fire service professionals receive during this event.” Endeavor Business Media has restructured and bolstered its events team in recent months in order to better meet the needs of its exhibitors and attendees. Significant investment in the educational program, operations, marketing and sales resources, as well as the
addition of proven and experienced leaders in those areas, will help Firehouse meet its goals to grow the event and create an excellent customer experience for attendees and exhibitors alike. As part of the event’s growth, the exhibit hall will continue to evolve, including the addition of more educational sessions directly from the manufacturers, whose equipment attendees use to protect and serve their communities every day. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with the manufacturers, and see and experience their equipment, products and services as they explore more than 80,000-square feet of displays during the three-day tradeshow. “We look forward to continuing our great relationships with our partners from the Nashville and the Middle Tennessee fire departments,” said Peter Matthews, Firehouse’s conference director and Editor-in-Chief. “Next year’s conference will include new hands-on training classes, additional programs focused on EMS, and other sessions to keep our attendees engaged and learning while they are in Nashville.” Firehouse Expo brings together a community of career and volunteer firefighters to exchange information, learn life-saving techniques and see first-hand the latest equipment, tools and resources. Firehouse Expo 2019 will be held October 8-12 at the Music City Center. Next year, Firehouse Expo 2020 will be held July 21-25, at the Music City Center.
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Fire News, September 2019, Page 35
GSP Car Fire Snuffed The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and responded to the Garden State Parkway on July 2, 2019, for a vehicle fire at Milepost 37 southbound. Firefighters arrived to a vehicle well involved on the ramp to Washington Avenue and command was established by Farmington Chief Harry Goodman IV. Farmington Rescue 1547’s crew pulled a line and made short work of the fire, assisted by the crew of Bargaintown. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Self-Extricated at Mays Landing MVA The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing responded to Harding Highway and Babcock Road on June 26, 2019, for an MVA with rollover. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine established command for a single-vehicle crash with the vehicle on its side in the woodlands. The occupant of the vehicle self-extricated. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Not What Is Meant by ‘To Go’ On July 19, 2019, the Moonachie Fire Department responded to Moonachie Road for a vehicle into a structure. Command requested a UASI/USAR response, bringing assets from Hackensack, Paterson, North Hudson and Hoboken to the scene. On the arrival of the Hackensack deputy chief the UASI response was cancelled and held to just the Hackensack units as the structure was deemed safe. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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New Apparatus for Ramsey
Recently, the Ramsey Fire Department held a wetdown and dedication for new Tower Ladder 441 and new Engine 436. Tower Ladder 441 was manufactured by Rosenbauer Fire Apparatus. They also produced a pumper on a Ford Crew Cab and chassis. The depart-
ment would like to thank all the agencies that came out and participated in the dedication and wetdown, and also the residents of Ramsey for their continued support. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Fire News, September 2019, Page 37
Old School Guys Rule
Some of the old school Ramsey Fire Department “Pirates” who rode on the now-retired Mack Tower Ladder 441. Some of these guys were new to the department when the old Mack came in brand new.
They used to fly a pirate’s flag off of the back of the bucket. They are all still active today in the Ramsey Fire Department. Old School guys still rule! - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Page 38, Fire News, September 2019
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Bargaintown Trains at Pleasantville The City of Pleasantville Fire Department demonstrated a mock up simulator for members of the Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company on March 25, 2019, at their station on Mill Road. The simulator allows them to use a thermal imager on heat and smoke and practice different techniques on ventilating. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Long Branch MVA into Structure On July 10, 2019, the Long Branch Police Department responded to the West End Pharmacy on Brighton Avenue for an MVA into the front of the structure and requested fire crews to respond. Engine 74 and Truck 91 handled the call. No injuries were reported and no structural damage was found. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Heat, Downed Transformers Make for a Difficult Job Firefighters from Cumberland and Atlantic Counties responded to Millville-Mays Landing Road in Maurice River Township on July 19, 2019, for a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a toppled utility pole with transformers on fire, which had spread to the structure. Firefighters worked for an hour in 100-degree temperatures to bring the fire under control and worked around the downed transformers and wires. Responding were Mauricetown, City of Millville, City of Vineland, Milmay, Dorothy, Estell Manor, Richland, East Vineland and Atlantic City Electric. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
HVAC Smoker in West Caldwell On July 25, 2019, the West Caldwell Fire Department responded to Fairfield Avenue and the West Caldwell Care Center for a fire. Crews arrived to a smoke condition in the structure and requested mutual aid from Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Fairfield and Essex Fells. Interior crews were able to isolate the smoke condition to the east wing of the structure and found the smoke was coming from a faulty HVAC unit. Crews went to the roof to secure the unit and all residents were able to shelter in place. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti