VOLUME 8, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes MARCH 2014
See more coverage on page 6. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Fire News Welcomes Everyone to the Long Island Mega Show – New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 3
In this issue... Civilian Injured in Roxbury Blaze A resident of a Circle Drive home is airlifted to St. Barnabas Medical Center after the fire. See story on page 13
Cape May Battles B&B Blaze CMFD B Shift stops a fire in a mid-to-late 1800s structure. See story on page 17
Camden City 3-Alarmer Despite firefighters efforts several apartments suffer damage. See story on page 22
Farmington Celebrates 75th Anniversary Double-life member William “Skip” Ritchie also honored at event. See story on page 26
ACFA Holds 90th Reorganization The first meeting to establish a county-wide association was in January 1923 at the Egg Harbor City FD. See story on page 31
James “Jimmy” Mazzio Passes Jamesburg firefighters mourn ex-Chief’s passing. See story on page 34
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 19 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 30 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 32 Up Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pages 32-33
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, EVELYN ALOISIO 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, Michael J. Coppola, 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, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, 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, Gary W. Wasylyk, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2014, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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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.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
‘No Building is Worth a Firefighters Life’ It is no secret that building construction has a direct impact on firefighters. For years, Frank Brannigan and Vincent Dunn have written books and talked about the direct correlation of lightweight truss construction, fire and collapse. All firefighters should pick up a copy of their many books on the subject and read them. Oh, you read it? Then re-read it to refresh yourself on a topic about which many have become complacent. Share what you know, visit construction sites to familiarize yourself with the ever changing construction techniques that are used to lower the cost of construction and then ask your local politician their viewpoint on the Safe Buildings Codes Incentive Act. For that past few years, the Congressional Fire Services Institute has been asking Congress to take action. Visit CFSI's website and read what they are trying to do about building codes. There is a piece of legislation pending in both the House and the Senate titled the Safe Building Code Incentive Act (HR 1878 and S. 924) that will offer an incentive to states for adopting and enforcing model building codes. The operative word in this measure is “incentive.” This is not big government forcing its will on states and local communities; instead, this measure creates an incentive for states to adopt model building codes. It does not penalize states, but instead, rewards them for good policy. These states would become eligible for an additional four percent in post-disaster FEMA grants. The Congressional Fire Services Institute is part of an advocacy group called the BuildStrong Coalition. This group is composed of experts from every aspect of the construction field who have one goal in mind: to make buildings safer for everyone, especially firefighters. This is a no brainer. What is stopping it? The cost of building a safe structure.. Sound dumb? I think it is. The House and the Senate needs to encourage jurisdictions to clear bills that the members of Congress can support. Remind them of the disasters that have wiped out communities. If the leaders in government hear from Public Safety, I am sure they will support the Safe Building Code Incentive act. Visit www. BuildStrongAmerica.com and www.CFSI.org to fully understand what you can do to make a difference in changing the laws that directly affect you, the firefighter. Remember what Chief Vincent Dunn has said, “No building is worth a firefighter’s life.” - Dennis
ANNOUNCEMENTS FLANDERS FIREFIGHTERS SPONSOR BLOOD DRIVE Flanders firefighters and emergency medical personnel will sponsor a blood drive from 1400 to 2000 on February 28, 2014, at the Flanders firehouse, 27 Main St., Flanders. Donors will be helping the area address a major blood shortage while supporting the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad. The blood drive will be conducted by the Blood Center of New Jersey, which supplies many area hospitals with blood and blood products. Donors will have the opportunity to take advantage of one of the Blood Center’s services that allows contributing twice as much blood, but returns plasma and other products to the donor so they actually leave feeling better. In addition, the Blood Center will make a contribution to the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad if 30-or-more people donate blood. A reservation can be made by calling 973-676-4700 x 151. Drop-ins are welcome, as well.
PORT NORRIS ANNUAL SPRING OYSTER AND HAM DINNER The Port Norris Fire Company will be sponsoring their Annual Spring Oyster and Ham Dinner at the firehouse on Sunday, March 30, 2014. The dinner will be served famil;y style from noon until 1800. The menu includes golden brown fried oysters, country ham, baked beans,string beans,macaroni salad, pepper cabbage, beverages, rolls and home-baked desserts. Cost is $19 for adults and $9 for children under 12. For more information contact any firefighter or call 856-785-2562. Advance reservations are encouraged.
2104 EMS APPRECIATION DAY The 2014 EMS Appreciation Day, sponsored by Alert Ambulance to benefit the Tom Giannattasio, Jr., Memorial Fund (www.TomG JrMemorialFund.com), will be held April 27, 2014 at the Lakewood Blueclaws games at First Energy Park in Lakewood. Gates open at noon and the game starts at 1305. Tickets are $10 and $3 from every ticket goes to the Memorial Fund if the tickets are purchased from the fund or Alert Ambulance. The Tom Giannattasio, Jr., Memorial Fund provides assistance to all EMS personnel and firefighters (volunteer or paid) - "Those Who Help Everyone, 24/7, 365 Days a Year" - suffering financial hardships due to the medical burdens of illness or injury. The fund also assists heart transplant patients whose drug and medical bills go far beyond their resources. For tickets or more information contact: Linda or Tom Giannattasio, Sr., at 732-477-8959; e-mail: info@TomGJRMemorialFund.com or zipscreen@aol.com; and Dave Glazer at 732-364-2856, ext. 320; e-mail DGlazerAAlertAmbulance.com.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT'S PHOTOS? We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to nj@fire news.com. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic "who, what, when, and where information." We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. - Ed.
THANK YOU! 50,000 for the likes! (Let’s make it 60,000!)
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Page 6, Fire News, March 2014
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Fire and Ice in North Hudson 3-Alarm
At approximately 2345 on January 23, 2014, North Hudson Regional Fire Rescue responded to 19th Street on a report of a fire. On arrival, heavy fire was showing on the top floor and involving the B exposure structure. A second alarm was requested on arrival, followed by a third a few minutes later. Firefighters were hampered by heavy fire conditions, single digit temperatures with wind chills below zero which resulted in icing conditions, as well as limited access due to a very narrow street. The fire took several hours to get under control with assistance from Jersey City, Bayonne and Hoboken; a mutual aid task force from Essex County relocated to cover NHRFR firehouses. No civilians were injured, but several FFs suffered minor injuries. Companies remained on the scene through the following day hitting hot spots and overhauling. The cause of the fire was unknown and at the height of the fire, mutual aid companies fought another working fire on New York Avenue which was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 7
Pompton Lakes, 3-Alarmer
A three-alarm fire was fought by members of the Pompton Lakes Volunteer Fire Department on a cold January 16, 2014. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Ron Fusaro reported that the rear of a single family home was fully involved and called for an additional response from neighboring Riverdale. Pompton Lakes responded with two Class A pumpers, a Quint and a heavy rescue truck. As the fire intensified, Fusaro called in a third alarm and requested additional manpower from Wanaque and a FAST unit from Pequannock Township. The Pompton Lakes Riverdale First Aid Squad also responded and TriBoro First Aid Squad provided additional support. The Pompton Lakes Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary provided support and
refreshments for the firefighters, while Bloomingdale and Wayne stood by at the emptied houses. The fire began in a rear second-floor bedroom and rapidly spread into the cockloft and adjacent rooms. Access to the cockloft was limited and a front vent was used by the ladder crew to attack the fire with its standpipe. Due to the extensive fire and water damage, the building was declared unfit for living. The family found temporary housing in Pompton Lakes. Two cats and a turtle were rescued and another cat perished in the fire. Two dogs had already left the house along with the residents. - Fire News photos by Mike Simone
Page 8, Fire News, March 2014
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Quick Response in Roxbury
Roxbury firefighters responded to a house fire on January 27, 2014. The residents were asleep, but were awoken by a woman driving past the home on Shippenport Road in the Landing section of the township. Police arrived shortly after and escorted the couple out of the home. Firefighters from Roxbury Company # 2 arrived within a short amount of time and quickly knocked down the main bulk of the fire in under 10 minutes. There were no reported injuries. Netcong and Hopatcong also responded. Officials believe the fire likely started in the chimney of a wood-burning stove. - Fire News photos by Tom Finnegan
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 9
Starting the New Year Off in Bargaintown
The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded to their first working fire of the year on January 1, 2014, when they were dispatched to Locust Avenue for a structure fire. Bargaintown Lieutenant Roy Merrill arrived and reported smoke coming from a one-story wood frame dwelling. Cardiff Chief Rob Winkler assumed command upon arrival and requested Bargaintown Engine 1522 to lay in from a hydrant around the corner. Cardiff Engine 1512, whose station is one block away, arrived first and stretched a 1-3/4
inch line into the dwelling. Cardiff Captain Bill Danz III and Lt. Gil Zonge, upon entering the home, discovered the fire was in the attic and they began making their way there. Danz requested command have a vent hole cut into the roof. Command requested one engine and the air cascade unit from Farmington to the scene. Due to the frigid temperatures, a rehab unit was requested, which was provided by Shore Medical Center through the Mass Casualty Vehicle which was brought to the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation
by the EHTFD Fire Official, and the Major Crimes Unit. Responding were: Cardiff (Engine 1512, Engine 1516, Tower 15, Car 1510 Chief Winkler, Car 1511 Asst. Chief Sear), Bargaintown (Car 1520 Chief E. Sharpe, Car 1521 Asst. Chief Hancock, Engine 1522, Engine 1526, Water Tender 1528), Farmington (Car 1541 Asst. Chief D. Sharpe, Engine 1545, Utility 1546), Shore Medical Center EMS, EHT Police, EHT Fire Official, Atlantic City Electric Company, South Jersey Gas Company. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Big Blaze in Hammonton On January 13, 2014, City of Hammonton District 9 dispatchers Humphries and Sacco sent Hammonton Volunteer Fire Companies #1 and #2 to Centennial Drive for a report of a dwelling fire with fire showing. Car F900, Chief Michael Ruberton, advised he was responding and requested a complete first alarm assignment for Hammonton firefighters and a response by the Elwood Volunteer Fire Company from Mullica Township and the Collings Lakes Volunteer Fire Company from Buena Vista Township (as FAST). Ruberton arrived and reported a fully involved dwelling with extension to the dwelling on the D side and requested a second alarm bringing firefighters from Winslow Township in Camden County, Nesco (Mullica Township), Indian Mills in Burlington County, and the Atlantic County Fire Coordinators. The first unit on location was Hammonton Tower 9 under the command of Captain Frank Domenico. Hammonton Engine 98, under the command of Captain Tomasello, reverse laid to the next hydrant on the D side. Hammonton Assistant Chief John Warren, who was the operations officer, had the gas shut off on the B, C, and D exposures and checked for extension; none was found. The B wall of the fire building collapsed severing the gas line. At this time command ordered the Elwood Fire Company to go to DeMarco Court and lay in. Indian Mills, Winslow Township,
and Nesco reported to the manpower pool. Also responding; Egg Harbor City Fire Department (covered Hammonton),Winslow Township (covered Hammonton), Laureldale Volunteer Fire Company (covered Elwood),
Atlanticare Rehab Unit, Atlanticare Paramedics, Atlantic County Fire Coordinators, Hammonton Police, Hammonton MUA, Atlantic City Electric, and South Jersey Gas Company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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One Civ. Injured at Roxbury Blaze
Firefighters were dispatched to Circle Drive in the Ledgewood section of Roxbury Township on January 17, 2014. Members of Fire Co #1 were drilling at the firehouse when alerted. Heavy smoke was coming from the front of the home when firefighters arrived and they learned there was a person trapped inside on the second floor. The first team stretched 1-3/4 lines and started their attack. A second team went to the second floor to search. Firefighters found the victim. who was seriously injured, and removed him; he was flown to St. Barnabas Medical Center in critical but stable condition. The fire was knocked down in 10 minutes but the house had sustained serious damage and was uninhabitable. Firefighters from Netcong, Mount Arlington and Randolph responded to the scene to assist. The Morris County OEM sent their rehab bus. - Fire News photos by Tom Finnegan
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Cardiff Attic Fire The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded on January 1, 2014, to Locust Avenue for a report of smoke coming from a structure. Bargaintown Lt. Roy Merrill who lived nearby reported a working fire. The fire involved the attic of a one-story wood frame single family dwelling. Cardiff Engine 1512 arrived first and its crew made entry into the home; upon entering the attic, a request was made to open the roof to relieve the smoke and trapped heat. This allowed firefighters to quickly bring the fire under control. The fire was under the command of Cardiff Chief Rob Winkler who requested one engine from Farmington for relief as the temperature was in the teens. Shore Medical Center EMS had a rehab vehicle and the Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary provided refreshments. Responding were Cardiff, Farmington, Car 1580- Investigator, EHT Police, Shore Medical Center EMS, Atlantic City Electric. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Brush Fire in Mizpah The Mizpah Volunteer Fire Company responded on November 23, 2013, to Harley Avenue for a report of a brush fire. The New Jersey Forest Fire Service Unit C5, Section Warden Jeremy Webber, automatically responded upon hearing the dispatch. Mizpah Assistant Chief Eric Davenport arrived first and found a large pile of debris smoldering. Mizpah Chief Jay Davenport II arrived and assumed command and had one handline pulled from Mizpah Engine 1827. Firefighters remained on location for one hour. Also responding were Township of Hamilton Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 15
Roxbury KOs Attic Fire
Calls started coming in around 1230 on January 25, 2014, for a report of fire around the chimney area of a Lincoln Drive address. Units arrived and started to advance a line into the second floor and found a fire in the attic area and roof but had the fire knocked down within 10 minutes. All three Roxbury companies were on scene. Roxbury 1’s quint laddered the front peak, vented and started to do
overhaul as others started to vent from the front. Netcong Fire was assigned the RIT. Station coverage was provided by other Morris County Companies. Also on scene were the Morris County MERV Bus and the County Mutual Aid Coordinators. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney
Page 16, Fire News, March 2014
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Cold 3-Alarmer in Wharton
Recently, the Wharton Fire Department was dispatched to South Main Street in the borough for a reported house fire. The first arriving police unit advised there was a working fire in a 2-1/2 story home. Police assisted in evacuating the residents, but one resident jumped from the second floor and suffered burns. The resident was transported to St. Barnabas Hospital and Burn Center. Within minutes of arrival of fire units, a second alarm was transmitted bringing mutual aid to the scene. As heavy fire conditions overtook the
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dwelling and extended to two other homes, a third alarm was transmitted bringing additional departments and the County Rehab Unit and County Air Truck to the scene. Two other people suffered smoke inhalation and were transported to St. Clare’s Hospital in Dover by their EMS; they were later released. Firefighters were hampered by a wind chill close to minus-10 degrees. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Tom Finnegan
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Cape May Battles Structure Fire at B&B
Fire News, March 2014, Page 17
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The Cape May Fire Department B Shift was alerted on January 25, 2014, for an activated fire alarm on Stockton Avenue at the the Bedford Inn bed and breakfast. The building is a balloon frame constructed circa mid-to-late 1800s. Upon arrival Lt. Rea established command. A first alarm was dispatched bringing the off-duty and volunteer personnel from the CMFD and the U.S. Coast Guard. Chief Inderwies (5100) arrived on scene and assumed command and quickly requested a second alarm. West Cape May, Cape May Point, Townbank, Erma (RIC), and Villas (coverage) were alerted. A quick and aggressive interior attack was made halting the spread of the fire. Due to the type of construction, crews worked to open the ceilings and walls on each of the three floors to extinguish the fire. The fire traveled in the walls and proved to be a challenge. Extensive overhaul was performed to assure the fire was completely extinguished. The fire is under investigation by the Cape May County Fire Marshalls Office, The State Fire Marshalls Office, and the CMPD. - Fire News photos by Robert Newkirk
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Page 18, Fire News, March 2014
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Budd Lake Fights Weather and a Car Fire
Recently, as a winter storm got going so did the Budd Lake Fire guished the fire. There were no injuries at the scene and companies Company when a call came in for a car fire in the Village Green were back in service within a half hour. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney Apartment Complex. Car 52 arrived and reported the fire. Engine 59 pulled in and stretched the front bumper line and quickly extin-
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 19
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Page 20, Fire News, March 2014
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Mixed Use Blaze in Margate
The City of Margate 911 dispatcher alerted Quint 24 and Engine 22 on January 19, 2014, for a report of a fire at Essex and Atlantic Avenue, with a caller reporting fire coming from the second floor. Quint 24 advised they were nearby and could see fire coming out of the second floor windows of a two-story commercial structure with businesses on the first floor and residences on the upper floors. Quint 24’s officer requested mutual aid from the cities of Ventnor, Longport and Ocean City. Firefighters made a quick knock down of the fire, and worked to revive one cat and one dog, but were unsuccessful. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 21
Keep the Cooking in the Kitchen
Quick Work at Cologne Apt. Fire
Mays Landing, Cologne and Laureldale were dispatched to Cardiff Court in the Oakcrest Estates development on January 16, 2014, for a reported structure fire. Chief Sauerwald assumed command on arrival. Cologne Engine 1852 and Mays Landing Engine 1812 arrived and quickly knocked down the fire, keeping it in the kitchen and dining area. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne and Mays Landing were dispatched on January 24, 2014, to the Cologne Garden Apartments for a confirmed working structure fire. Mays Landing Chief John Sauerwald and Cologne Chief Shawn Valluri arrived to find the rear of the structure involved with fire extending to the top of the structure. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Page 22, Fire News, March 2014
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Camden City 3-Alarm
On January 13, 2014, a dwelling fire was reported at Chase Street in Camden City. Battalion 1 arrived and reported a two-story wood frame garden-style building with heavy fire to the rear. The all hands was struck and an additional ladder assigned. Car 3 struck a second alarm and reported heavy fire conditions with heavy smoke throughout. Multiple truck companies opened the roof as searches were negative. A third alarm was struck. The fire was knocked down and placed under control. Fire damaged several apartments.The fire is under investigation by the Camden City Fire Marshals. - Fire News photos by Ted Aurig
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 23
Deerfield Blaze Knocked Out
The volunteer fire companies of Upper Deerfield #3 (Station 33), Seabrook (Station 32), Upper Deerfield #1, Upper Deerfield EMS (Squad 34), and Deerfield Township Volunteer Fire Company Station 29 (Rosenhayn) of Cumberland County and Gouldtown Volunteer Fire Company from Fairfield Township (Station 15) were dispatched to Irving Avenue in Upper Deerfield on January 7, 2014, for a report of a structure fire with possible entrapment.
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Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-story wood frame farm house. Firefighters fought the fire in below freezing temperatures and wind chill, making this a difficult battle. Nonetheless the fire was brought under control within an hour. Also responding were the New Jersey State Police, City of Bridgeton Police, Atlantic City Electric. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Page 24, Fire News, March 2014
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Trailer Fire in Pleasantville
The City of Pleasantville Fire Department in Atlantic County responded on December 1, 2013, to the rear of the Pleasantville High School for a report of a brush fire. Upon arrival, Captain Trythal assumed command and told Engine 1 to hit the hydrant at the cul-de-sac. Command also had heavy fire from the roof impinging on high tension wires, and requested Atlantic City Electric Company. Firefighters fought their way into the structure to find the trailers contained numerous cardboard boxes, paper, and filing cabinets. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Gun Club Fire in Bellplain
The volunteer fire companies of Bellplain and Dennisville from Dennis Township along with the City of Woodbine Volunteer Fire Department, all of Cape May County, responded on November 18, 2013, to Chestnut Avenue in Bellplain for a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find fire in a one-story wood frame building that was used for a gun club. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and the cause is under investigation by the Cape May County Arson Investigator. Also responding were the Bellplain Ambulance Squad and the New Jersey State Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 25
Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble*
Residual fumes from a chemistry experiment are believed to have sickened three Hightstown High School teachers and caused the evacuation of the East Windsor Regional High School January 17, 2014. The incident occurred in a science lab, when chemistry teacher Dr. Franco Paoletti was removing the fume hood of an experiment that mixed hydrochloric acid and zinc, when he became ill. Emergency responders from Hightstown, East Windsor, and neighboring municipalities, as well as hazardous waste units, representatives from the state’s Department of Environmental Protection and the federal EPA. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista *Apologies to Wm. Shakespeare
Page 26, Fire News, March 2014
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Holmdell Pipeline Drill
Back on October 19, 2013, fire companies from Monmouth County, Middletown Pipeline 7 and Bay Shore Pipeline 1 descended on Bell Labs Complex to practice their twice yearly pipeline drill. The goal was for each strike team to lay 4800 feet of hose from the supply engine to an aerial ladder. With each strike team’s supply engine ready by the lake, crews started to lay their five-inch line around
the structure to reach the aerial ladders in the back parking lot. Once the pipeline was deployed and fully operational, coordinators of the drill simulated a relay engine breaking down and units needed to transfer relay operations to another engine, without shutting down the flow of water through the pipeline.
Farmington Celebrates 75, Honors Skip Ritchie On January 11, 2014, the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company #4 celebrated 75 years of service as well as double-life member William “Skip” Ritchie who was honored in conjunction with the anniversary. The evening began with a memorial service for all past firefighters with a performance by the Sandpipers Pipe Band, followed by the tolling of the bell. After dinner, a slide show of the past 75 years was shown. Presentations to Skip on behalf of the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department were presented by Deputy Chief of Department Charles Sear, who Skip taught in high school. Other presentations to Skip were presented by Atlantic County Freeholder Frank Sutton, from the fire company by Chief Leonard Tilley, and a proclamation from the Egg Harbor Township Committee declaring January 12,2 2014, William "Skip" Ritchie Day in Egg Harbor Township. Presentations to the fire company were given by West Atlantic City Chief Wallace Bakely, Deputy Chief Sear, Freeholder Sutton, and a proclamation from the EHT Committee. Presentations by the fire company were given to members of the fire company saluting them for their response to the Dietz & Watson and Seaside Park fires, citations to the Ladies Auxiliary for their dedicated service, and Firefighter of the Year was given to member Tyrell Edwards. (Above, Left): Chief Tilley presents Skip with 50 year plaque. (Above, Right): Chief Tilley accepts award from Chief Bakely. (Right): Members of the fire company with their Meritorious Citations. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Heavy Extrication Training for EHT
The Egg Harbor Township Fire Department sponsored its annual Heavy Vehicle Extrication Training on November 9-10, 2013, at the township’s public works yard in conjunction with instructors from the Gloucester County Fire Academy. Rescuers were given two days of instruction in lifting, cribbing, stabilization, and extrication from vehicles pinned under heavy vehicles. Vehicles were donated by Battalini Towing from Landisville, the Egg Harbor Township Board of Education donated a school bus and wrecked vehicles stored by the township. Riehl’s Towing and Recovery from Carneys Point provided an 85-ton wrecker with a 360-degree boom and refreshments on both days were provided by the Egg Harbor Township Auxiliary. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Live Fire Drill
On November 3, 2013, Wayside Fire Company along with Tinton first floor with reported entrapment. Chief Larry Neis and Falls Fire Company #1 and Tinton Falls EMS conducted a live burn Assistant Chief Robert Buob of the Wayside Fire Company called drill at the Middlesex County Fire Academy. Two scenarios was the drill a huge success and were very satisfied with the results. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki practiced. The first was a reported fire in the rear of a second floor structure with a victim entrapped in the front room. The second scenario was a reported fire in a basement with extension into the
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 29
ACFA Graduation
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association held graduation ceremonies on February 5, 2013, for its Summer and Fall Firefighter 1 and Firefighter 2 classes. The Firefighter 1 class consisted of 39 recruits who performed 165 hours of training over 18 weeks. The Firefighter 2 class consisted of 22 firefighters who underwent 110
hours of extensive training. Remarks were given by Director of Training Michael J. Corbo, Atlantic County Freeholder Frank Sutton, and Executive Committee Chairman Howard Berchtold Jr. who reminded the students to continue their training. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Pequannock Trains at Morris Co. FA Recently, members of the Pequannock Fire Department attended a training class at the burn building at the Morris County Fire Academy. Companies practiced fire attack and roof vent operation. The Pequannock First Aid Squad was in attendance to evaluate each member after each evolution. - Fire News photo by Chris Denton
170 Years of Combined Service On December 8, 2013, the Garwood Fire Department held their Annual Christmas party at The Westwood. Three members were recognized for their many years of service to the Borough of Garwood and the Garwood Fire Department. William Severage, Jr. with 55 years; Arthur Schweitzer with 51 years; and Pat DiFabio with 64 years; for a total of 170 years of service. Left to right Chief Michael Tharaldesen; William Severage, Jr.; Pat Di Fabio; and Arthur Schweitzer. - Fire News photo courtesy of Garwood FD
Shop With A Cop Firefighters from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department and the Cologne Volunteer Fire Company supported “Shop With a Cop� on December 7, 2013, by parading with the police from the Police Athletic League (PAL) building in EHT to the Wal-Mart in Cologne. The event is sponsored with PAL and Wal-Mart and allows underprivileged children to shop for Christmas presents. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Allenhurst Ice Team Trains On January 11, 2014, the Allenhurst Fire Department held an ice water rescue drill. Both ice rescue training and underwater rescue training were practiced with “victims� in the water. Fire Chief Mike Powers was extremely satisfied with the drill results and commended his members on their continuous training. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki
HARRISON HYDRAULIC ADDS TIM ALLABAND WILL SERVICE NORTHEAST REGION Harrison is pleased to announce that Tim Allaband has been added to Harrison Hydraulic Solutions as the Northeastern Region Manager. In this position, Tim will be responsible for the forecasting, marketing, training and sales of Harrison products into all the business segments that Harrison serves in the Northeastern region. Tim will also be responsible for integration of Harrison Products and Services into new markets outside of the traditional fire and emergency segment. Tim most recently served as Vice President of Redstorm Fire & Rescue Apparatus, Gainesville, VA, from 2010 to 2013, where Tim was responsible for overall sales and service to five states; focusing on both career and volunteer fire departments. Tim spent 2004 to 2010 as the Vice President of Sales and Service, at Singer Associates Fire Equipment, the largest fire apparatus dealer in the U.S. From 2000 to 2004 Tim served as the District Manager for Pierce Manufacturing, Appleton, WI, where he was responsible for overall sales and dealership management in seven Mid-Atlantic States. Tim can be contacted at timallaband@harrisonhydragen.org or at 281-897-3626.
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 31
ACFA Holds 90th Annual Reorg. Service
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association held its 90th Annual Reorganization and Memorial Service at the Egg Harbor City Fire Department on January 15, 2016. The officers for 2014 are: President - Amor “Skip” Portale; 1st Vice President - Ellsworth Ott; 2nd Vice President - Charles “Chick” Kisby; Secretary - Robert A. Mellon; Treasurer Jaime C. Melon; Asst. Secretary/Treasurer - Cindy L. Badger; Chaplain - Rev. Thomas Sweeny; Fire Marshal - Harold “Whitey” Swartz. Welcome remarks were given by President Portale to an SRO crowd of firefighters, guests, and elected officials. An invocation and homily were presented by Reverend Sweeny followed by the lighting of candles and a roll call of names for the firefighters who answered their final alarm in 2013. A striking of the bell followed after each name was called, and upon the final name being called, the striking of 5-5-5-5 was done. Following the services, President Portale presented Egg Harbor City Chief Walter “Butch” Kienzle and Egg Harbor City Mayor Lisa Jiampetti a plaque thanking them for hosting the services and reorganization meetings for the past 90 years. (The first meeting to organize a county-wide firefighters organization was held in January 1923 at the Egg Harbor City Fire Department.) Another presentation was given by President Portale; ACFFA Executive Chairman Howard Berchtold, Jr.; and Fire Marshal Swartz to the family of the late Chief Ted Reinhard, Sr.; a past chief of the Egg Harbor City Fire Department; past president of the Atlantic County Firefighters Association; and one of the persons responsible for getting the Atlantic County Fire Training Center built. Ted was responsible for the procurement of hundreds of thousands of dollars in equipment for the training center. The evening ended with the swearing in of officers that was followed by refreshments. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Up Close & Personal
Jersey City Fire Department, Engine 9, C Group — the busiest engine company in Jersey City — with Battalion Chief Steven J. McGill. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Recently, Consolidated Fire Association firefighters (Bordentown Station 601) responded to a warehouse fire in Trenton. Pictured are (red helmet) Captain Bill Cranmer, Lew Woodward, Chris O'Leary and JoJo. - Fire News photo by Kim Okeson
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Fire News, March 2014, Page 33
Up Close & Personal
A recent funeral brought together a father and son chief combination. Left to right is: Pomona Volunteer Fire Company Chief Eric Winkler; retired Pomona Volunteer Fire Company Chief Charles “Chuck” Winkler, Jr., Galloway Township; and Charles “Rob” Winkler III, chief of the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company, Egg Harbor Township. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
City of Hammonton firefighter Nicole Ruberton with her husband, Chief Mike Ruberton, following Mike’s first working fire as Chief of the Hammonton Fire Department, a two-alarmer on January 13, 2014, on Centennial Drive. Nicole has just completed her first year as Firefighter 1 and EMT. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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FF James Mazzio Passes Jamesburg Fire Department came to pay their respects and share in the last ride of firefighter James “Jimmy” Mazzio on January 13, 2014. Mazzio served as Chief from 1976 - 1978. The service was conducted at St. James Roman Catholic Church followed by a funeral procession through town using the company's antique Mack 1956 truck as the coach carrying Mazzio’s casket for one final ride past his house on Pergola Avenue before stopping at the firehouse on the apron for his last call. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista
Sweet 16 in a Fire Family The members of Protection Engine Co #1 of South Amboy would like to congratulate Ms. Jackie Riley on her Sweet 16. Jackie is an Explorer with the Protection Engine Co #1 Explorer Post #6. She is following in the footsteps of her grandfather, the late Donald Riley, and her father Donald Riley, Jr. Jackie's uncle, Kevin Riley, and cousin, Hannah Riley, also belong to the fire company. She is pictured with her firehouse family at the company block party before going to celebrate with friends. Congratulations Jackie. - Fire News photo by Thomas Parsons
Lamana Sworn in as District Captain On January 16, 2014, Fire Official Nick Lamana was promoted to District Captain and will hold dual title of Captain/Fire Official. Family, friends and members were there to support Nick. (Left): Nick and members of IAFF Local 3592. - Fire News photo by Constantine D. Sypsomos
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