National Trail Fire Department crews operated at a structure fire in Hopewell Township.
See story on page 4
Warren City Structure Fire
Warren City Fire Department was dispatched to Mahoning Avenue NW for a report of a structure fire with a possible entrapment.
See story on page 6
Newark House Fire
Newark fire crews worked a single-family fire at a single residence on Davis Avenue.
See story on page 9
Apartment Complex Fire Stopped
Columbus Fire B 1 and 5 crews, along with the Grandview FD, responded to a multi-family apartment complex fire.
See story on page 11
Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Columbus Division of Fire was once again honored to participate in the Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17, 2025.
See story on page 21
Guns and Hoses Fundraiser
The annual fundraising event featured 15 bouts, pitting area firefighters against law enforcement officers.
See story on page 22
pages 14-16, 18 & 20
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO
TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer
GARYP. JOYCE, Editor
MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production
CLIFFCHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager
BARBARACONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales
SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager
BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant
GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER Graphic Artists
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus
COPYRIGHT2025, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEWYORK. ALLRIGHTS RESERVED FOR MORE INFORMATION, (631) 776-0500 Advertising: Ext3, Editorial: Ext 281 or LI@firenews.com
Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions
Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
Proud Member Of:
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 Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713.
page 20 Classifieds
page 20
page 21
page 23
Hopewell Twp. Home Well Involved on Arrival
National Trail Fire Department crews operated at a structure fire in Hopewell Township. The home was well involved upon arrival. One patient was transported to a local hospital. Big thanks to all departments who assisted including Hanover; Madison Station-100 Hopewell; Licking Township; Heath; Maryann; and the Newark OH Division of Fire. - Photos courtesy of National Trail FD
Warren City Fire Department was dispatched to the 3000 block of Mahoning Avenue Northwest fora report of a structure fire with a possible entrapment. Units arrived to a two-story structure with heavy fire showing from the second floor. Crews made an aggressive attack into the upstairs apartment through the back of the building. Afterpushing through high heat and smoke, the fire was located and extinguished. Aprimary search was completed with no victims found. The residents were not home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Ohio State Fire Marshal.
- Photos courtesy of
Warren Professional Firefighters Local 204
Warren City Structure Fire
Chimney Fire Extends
Madison Rescue 101 and Tanker101 were dispatched to Montgomery Road just north of LoperRoad with Mary Ann Township Fire Department fora reported chimney fire. On arrival crews found the fire had spread into the attic and vented through the roof. Crews cleared about three hours later.
- Photos courtesy of Madison Township FD
Fatality at Cleveland Blaze
Cleveland firefighters operated at a fatal fire on West 98th Street south of Almira in B3 recently. Crews encountered a large volume of fire on all three floors, hoarding conditions and multiple explod-
Madison Responds to Grass Fire
Madison Engine 101, Tanker101, Grass 101, UTV101, Medic 101 and LT117 to BearHollow Road on a large grass fire. Multiple departments assisted.
- Photo courtesy of Madison Township FD
ing propane tanks, making fora difficult fire to fight. An elderly female resident perished in the fire. The cause was determined to be accidental. - Photos courtesy of Cleveland Division of Fire
Newark House Fire
Newark fire crews worked a single-family fire at a single residence on Davis Avenue recently. Firefighters initiated a coordinated attack along with searching the residence and ensuring appropriate ventilation techniques. Thank you to ourmutual aid support from the City of Heath, Newark Township, and Granville Township departments.
- Photos courtesy of Newark Unit G, FD Staff, Newark OH, Division of Fire
Abandoned Hotel Fire in South Point
Fayette Fire Department responded, along with Perry Township, South Point, Lawrence County EMS, Lawrence County Sheriff’s and the Lawrence County TankerTask Force, fora commercial structure fire. The fire was contained to one room in an abandoned hotel in South Point. The fire is currently underinvestigation by the Ohio State Fire Marshall.
- Submitted by Andrew Adkins
Not a Fan of “Coincidences”
Cleveland Fire crews recently responded to a vacant house fire on West 78/Colgate in B3. Companies previously operated at a vehicle fire three houses from the scene. Both incidents were underinvestigation by officials. No injuries were reported at eitherincident.
- Photos courtesy of Cleveland Division of Fire
Shop Fire on CR 168
East Holmes Fire and EMS were dispatched to County Road 168 fora shop fire. The first trucks arrived to heavy fire and smoke conditions in the 60- x 120-foot shop building. Cold temperatures proved to be a challenge due to ice buildup on ground surfaces and equipment. Thanks to Winesburg, Sugarcreek, PrairieHolmesville, and Holmes 1. Holmes County Sheriff’s assisted with traffic and Holmes County Highway treated the roadway.
- Photo courtesy of East Holmes Fire & EMS
Columbus 2-Alarmer
Columbus Fire B 2 and 3 crews were dispatched to a blaze at the crossroads of Malian Street and Malian Drive on the north side of Columbus. Due to the need forextra ladders and access concerns, it was quickly upgraded to a second-alarm fire. The fire was underinvestigation by officials.
- Photo courtesy of Columbus Division of Fire
Apartment Complex Fire Stopped
Columbus Fire B 1 and 5 crews, along with the Grandview Fire Department, responded to a multi-family apartment complex on fire. Crews were able to put a stop to the spread of the fire and contain the incident.
- Photos courtesy Columbus Division of Fire
Coshocton Holds Training on Building to be Razed
On March 25, 2025, the Coshocton Fire Department held training at a soon-to-be-demolished Rite Aid store. Cosohocton’s AShift was on duty that day and trained on breaching walls and doors, advancing charged handlines, and venting the roof in several places. This
was the third day of training as othershifts from Coshocton took advantage of the opportunity to train in the building - Submitted by
Jim McKeever
Training
Newton Township Trains
Newton Township firefighters spent a recent morning going overpump ops, drafting with Engine 391, and the porta pump. Crews then practiced moving hose and flowing and moving. Pictured are Firefighters Van Hoose, Brocklehurst, Schneider, Rogers, Neighbargerand Ellis.
- Photos courtesy of Newtown Township FD
Training
Bloom Township Ice Rescue Training
On January 29, 2025, members of the Bloom Township Fire Department participated in an intensive ice rescue training session. This specialized training is crucial as ice rescues can be particularly dangerous, requiring quick and precise actions to save lives.
One of the key tools we rely on during such operations is the Rapid Deployment Craft (RDC), a portable boat and working platform that can be fully inflated and operational on the water in under two minutes. The RDC is essential for safely reaching victims, stabilizing rescue efforts, and providing a reliable platform for recovery.
We were fortunate to have Brian Barrick from Columbus Fire Rescue 3 lead the training. Barrick is a seasoned expert in ice rescue operations, and his knowledge and experience provided valuable insights into the techniques and equipment that are critical to ensuring the success of these high-stress rescues. Aspecial thank you goes out to the Heather Lakes Subdivision HOAand homeowners who graciously allowed us to use their pond for the day’s training. The pond’s “bubbler” system-an essential feature that prevents the water from freezing-created a more realistic training environment, simulating the conditions we might face in an actual rescue scenario.
Just a few days later, on February 1, 2025, the training was put to the test. The Bloom Township Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a dog that had fallen through the ice on a local pond. Upon arrival, our team learned that the homeowner had successfully reached the dog using a small boat and retrieved it from the water. However, the homeowner became stranded as the boat was blown against the ice, leaving her in a potentially dangerous situation.
Given the risk of the boat capsizing and the freezing temperatures, our rescue team quickly assessed the situation and determined the safest course of action. Two rescuers were sent onto the ice to stabilize the
boat and assist in guiding it back to safety. Through quick coordination and careful execution, both the homeowner and the dog were safely brought to land without further incident and both were unharmed.
This incident highlights the dangers of frozen bodies of water, especially when they appear stable but are often much thinner and weaker than they may seem. The homeowner, in this case, only took her eyes off the dog for a second-a reminder of how quickly these situations can escalate. It also reinforces the importance of ice rescue training, as well as the ability to apply what we’ve learned in real-world scenarios.
We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone to exercise extreme caution around frozen bodies of water. The risks associated with thin ice are real, and it only takes a momentary lapse in attention to lead to a potentially tragic situation.
The chief would like to express his gratitude to the Heather Lakes Subdivision HOA, the homeowners, and all the residents who allow us to train in your areas. The hands-on training in real-world settings like these are invaluable, ensuring that our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to handle emergencies efficiently and safely.
Additionally, the chief wishes to acknowledge the officers and crewmembers who participated in both the ice rescue training and the actual rescue operation. Bloom Township is fortunate to have dedicated and highly trained personnel who continually strive to improve and develop the skills needed to turn potential tragedies into positive outcomes.
As always, our commitment to the safety of our community remains our top priority, and we will continue to train, learn, and prepare for whatever challenges may lie ahead.
- Submitted by Thomas Williams, Fire Chief
Training
FirefighterDefense Techniques Training
Arecent Sylvania training seminarconsisted of self-defense techniques to help prevent firefighterinjuries when dealing with a combative patient. The goal is to ensure the safety of ourfirefighters and the patients forwhom we care. Aspecial shout out to Will Leu of the Lucas County Sheriff’s Department. Will is an instructorfor
Bayview Jiu-Jitsu and a Black Belt in many different styles of martial arts. InstructorLeu emphasized reading body language, time to retreat and simple but affective basic self-defense techniques.
- Photos courtesy of Sylvania Fire & EMS
Cleveland Cement Truck Overturn
Cleveland Fire and Police responded to East 9th/Ontario exit from Interstate 77 north foran overturned cement truck. The driverwas extricated from the wreck by fire crews and transported by EMS to Metro Hospital in stable condition. Fire department HazMat crews responded to the scene fora diesel spill. Motorists were advised to avoid the area.
- Photo courtesy of Cleveland Division of Fire
American Twp.
Handles 2-CarMVA
The American Township Fire Department was dispatched to the intersection of Cole Street and Bluelick Road fora two-carMVA with entrapment. One occupant was extricated and both were transported to St. Rita’s with serious injuries.
- Photo courtesy of ATFD
Cincinnati Recruit Class Live Burn
Recently, Cincinnati Fire Recruit Class 123 had theirfirst burn day on the training grounds. Several stations were set up to show differ-
ent scenarios firefighters encounteronce they are out with their companies.
- Photos courtesy of Cincinnati FD
Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Columbus Division of Fire was once again honored to participate in the Columbus St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17, 2025. Members of Columbus Fire brought smiles to the people lining the route as they waved and handed out candy.
The day started with Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. Following Mass, the parade made its way through downtown Columbus, spreading Irish pride and joy to all in attendance. The annual event is organized by the Shamrock Club of Columbus, and it brings thousands of visitors, decked out in their finest St. Patrick’s Day attire, to Downtown Columbus each
year to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.
The Columbus Fire Honor Guard and the Police and Fire Pipes and Drums, followed by many uniformed personnel, marched in the parade, greeting people along the route. The procession included Columbus Fire Medic 1, Engine 1, and Ladder 1, adding to the excitement of the celebration.
The annual parade not only celebrates Irish culture, but also brings together the community, both those of Irish descent, and those who may be only Irish for the day. - Photos courtesy of Columbus Division of Fire
Guns and Hoses Fundraiser
Once again, The Columbus Firefighters Foundation and the Capital City Lodge 9 FOPFoundation partnered with the Arnold Sports Festival to host the Guns and Hoses Charity Boxing Event.
The annual fundraising event featured 15 bouts, pitting area firefighters against law enforcement officers. Each match consisted of three oneminute rounds. The historic Columbus Athenaeum on North Fourth Street downtown served as the perfect backdrop for the event.
The firefighters emerged victorious in nine of the 15 bouts. Among the most dominating performances were Columbus Firefighter Julie Dassylva’s technical knockout (TKO) against Licking County Probation officer Brandy Nelson, just 20 seconds into their fight. Additionally, Columbus Firefighter James Neal delivered a TKO to Franklin County Sheriff's Deputy Grant Meek just 28 seconds into their bout, prompting chants of “C-F-D” from the crowd.
The fights featured:Andrew Massie, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office vs Tysean Whitehead, Columbus Fire; Mikayla Justen,
vs Kaitlyn
Columbus Fire; Tyrone Johnson, Columbus Police vs Lucas Roberts, Shefield EMS; Nate Morris, Columbus Police vs Jamar Perry, Mifflin EMT; Reece Evans, Columbus Police vs Matthew Zitsman, Columbus Fire; Evan Dalzell, Columbus Police vs Xavier Bingham, Columbus Fire; Quincy Nelms, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office vs Bayden Chandler, Madison Township Fire; Logan Jackson, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office vs David Reynolds, Columbus Fire; Grant Meek, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office vs James Neal, Columbus Fire; Matt Hall, Madison Township Police vs Brandon Morgan, Columbus Fire; Brandy Nelson, Licking County Probation Office vs Julie Dassylva, Columbus Fire; Cassius Russell, Licking County Prosecutor’s Office vs Michael Siliciano, Delhi Fire; Cory Gibson, Morrow County Sheriff’s Office vs Aaron Siegel; Delaware County Sheriff’s Office vs Dustin Center, Columbus Fire; and Dan Fry, Lebanon Police vs EJ Reed, Columbus Fire.
- Photos courtesy Columbus Division of Fire
Columbus Police
Musick,
Thank You, Ladies
In honorof International Women’s Day, the Glendale Fire Department recognized the valuable contributions of its female members, to whom we are eternally grateful. Thank you, ladies!
- Photo courtesy of Glendale FD
Warren Donates to St. Joseph’s
Warren Professional Fire Fighters Local 204 made theiryearly donation to the St. Joseph’s CancerCenterin the amount of $500. This brings theirfive-yeartotal to $7,456.14 in donations made directly to local cancerpatients from the local. Thank you forthe continuous support!
- Photo courtesy of Warren Professional Firefighters Local 204
FAMAand FEMSAAre Deeply Saddened to Report the Passing of William (Bill) Foster
Bill Foster (previously of Spartan Emergency Response) passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 83, after a long-fought battle with cancer. Known and loved by many, Bill was considered a mainstay in the fire industry. His passion for firetrucks and commitment to training firefighters and mechanics remains evident today.
In roughly 1976, Bill and three others started Spartan Motors in Charlotte, MI. For more than 30 years, Bill worked to build Spartan to the successful business it is today. Bill served as VPand on the Board of Directors.
After 27 years, Bill retired from active service on the Delta Township Fire Department holding many ranks including Assistant Chief. Bill was also dedicated to his family. He and his wife of 57 years, Joan, had two sons, James and Philip. Over the years, Bill and Joan’s family has grown to include seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church Restoration Fund. 917 West Jefferson Boulevard, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
SuperVac Founder Erv WeinmeisterPasses
Super Vacuum Manufacturing Founder Erv Weinmeister passed away in the early morning hours on December 27, 2024, at UC Health Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Colorado.
Erv Weinmeister was an inventor and wellloved entrepreneur, who devoted 24 years as a firefighter and seven decades to fire equipment manufacturing. Many in the industry called him “a visionary who pushed the fire industry forward.”
Weinmeister dedicated 24 years to the Loveland Volunteer Fire Department. He served as Chief od the Loveland VFC during the Big Thompson Flood of 1976, leading the recovery effort. In 1971, the company built its firstever fire truck. Today, Super Vac’s fire truck division is now known as SVI Trucks.
In the end, Weinmeister never stopped working. He drove to work, walked the floors, put in his office time, then made the lunch hour bell before leaving for the day to start it all over again - up until the very end. “That’s what he instilled in all of us,” his family said. “To work hard for something good. That’s the legacy Erv left us.” The Weinmeister family asks that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities at rmhc.org/donate at rmhc.org/donate.
