PENNSYLVANIA VOLUME 10, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY/JUNE 2020
Story on page 48. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Helpful COVID-19 Information Please See Pages 4 & 6.
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 3
In this issue... 3-Story 4-Alarm Warehouse Fire On April 22, 2020, Pittsburgh firefighters were dispatched to Penn Avenue in the city’s Strip District for a building fire. See story on page 8
Harrisburg Blaze Extends Box 1-4 sent crews to Thompson Street in the Allison Hill neighborhood for a structure fire.
A Service for Pennsylvania Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
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
See story on page 13
House, Church Go in Steelton
Box 501 was struck at 1712 for fire in a Swatara Street house which extended to a church. See story on page 14
Blaze Levels Halifax Garage On April 7, 2020, crews responded for a structure fire in the Halifax for a fully involved detached garage. See story on page 18
CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS DAWN ALTSTATT, TED AURIG, LAUREN CARPENTER, JASON COLEMAN-COBB, JEFF GOLDBERG, N. GRISWOLD, ALEX LLOYD GROSS, CHRIS HALDEMAN, CURTIS JURY, KEN LAGER, GREG LEAMAN, ANDY MARSH SR., STEVEN MATTO, ARTIE OSNIAK, STEVE ROTH, PATRICK SHOOP, SHANE SHIFFLETT, JAYSON WAGNER, ASHLEY WALTERS, FRANK WESNOSKI, DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR. COLUMNS KRAIG HERMAN, TIM SOLOBAY COPYRIGHT 2020, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Outbuilding Fire in Lancaster Township Lancaster Twp. Volunteers were dispatched to Turnbridge Drive in WedgeWood Estates for an outbuilding fire. See story on page 24
Avonmore Structure Fire Firefighters responded to Cambria Avenue in Avonmore for a residential structure fire. See story on page 29
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Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania 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, NY 11713.
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Page 4, Fire News, May/June 2020
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
COVID-19, A Cultural Awareness As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, we must give thought to returning to a new sense of normalcy. Yes, I believe that when things begin to calm down, which they appear to be doing, our return to what once was will be changed. Before I share my thoughts, I would like to sincerely thank our doctors, EMS staff, nurses, and all hospital employees, who have been through hell caring for the constant string of patients in need of help. I pray for the families who have lost loved ones to COVID-19. As of May 7, 2020, there has been over 265,000 deaths worldwide, related to the virus. On a positive spin, there have been 1,313,251 patients who have recovered from it. Currently, there are 2,262,826 patients who have the disease with over 48,000 of them in grave condition. I applaud everyone who is involved with caring for our patients. I thank our newly graduated nurses for their service before they even get started in their careers. I relate their service to a firefighter going in service during war years, or during other times when the horizon looked bleak. The Wildfires of 1995, the crash of Flight 800, the attacks of 9/11 — I could go on. At first, a responder feels exhilarated that they are responding to a serious call. However, when the realization that you are now part of a horrible situation clicks in, you can become
worn out and discouraged. It is easy to have thoughts of being a failure, when you feel helpless because you may not be performing up to your own expectations. You may not have been prepared emotionally for the devastation around you. To all essential personnel, everyone around you knows you are doing the best that you can with the skills you have. Do not be afraid to talk with friends or your fellow workers. Talk to your clergy, or anyone else who may have been through what you are going through. As a firefighter, I look back on some of the serious calls I have been on. Why do I sit at times rethinking the calls that upset me? Today we have a name for this. It is call PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), something that has become part of our job. Take a moment to talk to the people around you and share your experiences, thoughts and feelings. When we return to normalcy, share time together and protect one another with encouraging conversation. Why do I love starting my day at the firehouse? Why do firefighters say they miss the firehouse? It is because being around the people who have shared your experiences understand what you have been through. An outsider may not fully appreciate that the bond we have with one another is what gets us through our rough times. We call this
brotherhood. It is that special relationship between close friends or the feeling of kinship with others in the same boat. When two people have a close and loyal friendship, this is an example of brotherhood. When a group of people all share the same goals and tribulations and support each other, this too, is an example of a brotherhood. As responders and what is now called essential personnel, we share the same feelings. You will get through these tough times. Look out for one another and share your thoughts of a better time. - Dennis
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US Fire Administration COVID-19 Resources This message from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) includes critical and emergent resources for fire and EMS on the COVID-19 response. The COVID-19 outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation. USFA will update information at least once each week. ________________________________________
helps fire departments enhance their existing behavioral health programs and assists fire departments who are just beginning to develop formalized programs with limited resources. National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (https://www.everyonegoeshome.com /2017/12/21/behavioral-health-management/).
Visit the USFA’s website at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/coronavirus/index.html for additional COVID-19 resources for fire and EMS.
IAFC Behavioral Health. Resources for behavioral health and alcohol screenings. International Association of Fire Chiefs (https://iafc safety.org/behavioral-health/).
Featured Resources
IAFF Behavioral Health Program. Resources that educate and support IAFF members on behavioral health concerns. International Association of Fire Fighters (https://www.iaff.org/behavioral-health/).
Agencies and Organizations COVID-19 Pandemic Response Resources. Information for providers, families and leadership. Uniformed Services University Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (www.cstsonline.org).
We’re Here for You. Several health and wellness resources that you may find useful during this time. First Responder Center for Excellence (https://www.firstrespondercenter.org/were-here-for-you/). ________________________________________
Dealing with Stress, Anxiety and Grief during COVID-19. NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins discusses the stress and anxiety that people Counterfeit Respirators: What You Need to Know are feeling from COVID-19 with Dr. Joshua Gordon, Director of NIH's National Institute of Mental Health. National Institutes of Health. An image for your social media accounts to increase awareness about (https://directorsblog.nih.gov/2020/04/07/dealing-with-stress-anxiety- how to identify counterfeit respirators(see bottom of page) that are and-grief-during-covid-19/). making their way into the market during the COVID-19 pandemic can Topic Collection: COVID-19 Behavioral Health Resources. A collec- be found at: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/img/share/counterfeit_respiration of resources created by federal agencies and their partners to help tors. 1200x600.png. ________________________________________ healthcare providers, caregivers and the general population prepare for and manage the negative behavioral effects that can accompany a pubCOVID-19 Essential Information lic health emergency. ASPR Technical Resources, Assistance Center, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Resources to protect the and Information Exchange (https://asprtracie.hhs.gov/technicalfire and EMS from COVID-19 (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh resources/115/covid-19-behavioral-health-resources/99). /emres/2019_ncov.html). Fire Service Associations EMS.gov. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office Center for Firefighter Behavioral Health. Behavioral heal resources and of Emergency Medical Services provides current COVID-19 informaeducation for firefighters and their families (http://www.cffbh.org). tion for EMS responders (https://www.ems.gov/projects/coronavirus_ Fire Service Behavioral Health Management Guide. This guide covid-19_resources.html).
Page 8, Fire News, May/June 2020
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Hampden Twp. Home Destroyed On February 28, 2020, Engine Companies 30, 12, 14, 22 and 37; Trucks 30 and 29; Squad 31; and Company 33 for RIT responded to the area of Deerfield Avenue and Woodcrest Drive for a house fire. Engine 2-30 laid a supply line and Squad 31 picked up 2-30’s lay and supplied them with water. Engine 2-37 took a position on side A of the two-story, single-family dwelling, with fire showing from the rear. Chief 1-30 assumed command. A 2-1/2 inch line was stretched to the rear from Engine 2-30 and two additional lines were stretched as all three floors in the rear became involved and crews evacuated. High winds hampered operations and fanned the flames throughout. Command 2 requested Engine Company 13 and Squad 29 and crews briefly re-entered. The second floor became well involved and prompted Command to evacuate the dwelling again. Several lines and master stream operations from Engine 2-37 and Truck 29 poured water on the fire for several minutes to darken it down. One juvenile was home at the time of the fire and escaped unharmed. The house was destroyed. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Berrysburg Mixed Use Suffers Interior Collapse On January 16, 2020, just before 1900, a 911 call came in for a commercial structure fire with reported entrapment. Berrysburg Fire Company Chief 26 arrived to find a two-story all block garage/machine shop with an apartment on division 2 and fire showing from the first floor. After size up no entrapment was found. As crews began arriving the chief had two lines put into service to the B and D sides. The structure had a pass-through garage on the first floor with garage doors on the B and D sides. Millersburg Truck 20 positioned on the A side as firefighters began to throw ladders and stretch additional lines. Within a few short minutes the fire had spread to division 2 with a majority of division 1 fire being knocked down. Due to rapidly deteriorating conditions on division 2, command evacuated the structure and began a defensive attack. Crews found the structure had a multi-layer roof which was causing issues properly venting. Crews would continue hitting the fire from the c side porch area and D side single-story roof area. Fire eventually burst through the roof and enabled crew from Truck 20 to utilize its master stream. Crews started to make rapid progress on knocking all fire thereafter and found parts of the floor had fallen from division 2 to division 1. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
3-StoryWarehouse Fire Goes to 4 Alarms On April 22, 2020, just after 2000, Pittsburgh firefighters were dispatched to the 1700 block of Penn Avenue in the city’s Strip District for a building fire. The caller stated they could see smoke and flames inside a building. Engine 3 was first to arrive and advised dispatch they had heavy smoke coming from a three-story warehouse. More crews arrived and found heavy fire on the third floor. Fire began to vent from the roof as interior crews attacked the fire, which quickly went to four alarms due to the volume of fire and size of the building. Crews worked feverishly to stop the fire from spreading to the whole building, knocking the bulk of the fire down in just over 30 minutes. The fire was brought under control in just over an hour. Crews were able to contain the fire to two out of four top units on the third floor. Two businesses located on the first floor sustained smoke and water damage. One firefighter was transported to a hospital for a shoulder injury. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 9
Plum MVA and Fire
Stations 235 (Logan’s Ferry Heights) and 54 (Lower Burrell) responded to Coxcomb Hill in Plum for a rollover MVA with
possible entrapment and fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
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South Park Fire On April 3, 2020, crews were called to reports of smoke coming from a vacant structure in South Park. The call was quickly upgraded to a second alarm with heavy smoke pushing from the structure. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Controlled Burn … Well… Isn’t Firefighters from the Schnecksville and Neffs Fire Departments responded to the 5300 Block of Route 309 for a reported brush fire. Additional reports indicated that a controlled burn had gotten out of control. Crews arrived on the scene and found fire being wind driven up a hill. Crews deployed three lines and worked the brush fire from two sides and gained control within a few minutes. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Butler Co. Residential Fire On March 20, 2020, around 0430, Butler County 911 received a call for a house fire on 2nd Avenue in the City of Butler. Station 1 (Butler City), Station 3 (Butler Township Fire District), Station 38 (VA Fire Department), Station 99 (Butler Ambulance Service) and Butler City Police were dispatched. Upon arrival, crews found a two-story residence with fire on the second floor. Butler City requested all off-duty shifts to respond in addition to the units operating. The fire was contained to the second floor with smoke and water damage to the rest of the structure. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Apartment Fire in Vandergrift On March 3, 2020, Stations 51 and 50 (Vandergrift), 53-1 and 2 (West Leechburg/Hyde Park), 200 (Parks Twp.), 101 (Markle), and 69 and 54 (Lower Burrell) responded to Custer Avenue in Vandergrift for an apartment fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
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Plum Residential Fire On March 3, 2020, Stations 236 (Holiday Park), 233 (Unity), 234 (Renton), 235 (Logan’s Ferry Heights), and 194 (Monroeville 4) were called to Mount Hood Drive in Plum for a residential structure fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
McKeesport 2-Alarmer At 2044 on April 2, 2020, City of McKeesport firefighters were dispatched to the 1500 block of Jenny Lind Street for a report of a house on fire. Police arrived first and confirmed the house fire. Fire crews arrived to find an abandoned house heavily involved and a second alarm was requested. Firefighters set up a defensive attack and battled the flames for over an hour. No injuries were reported and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 13
Harrisburg Blaze Extends
Box 1-4 sent Squad 8, Wagon 4, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief Wise to Thompson Street in the Allison Hill neighborhood for a structure fire on March 15, 2020. Chief 4 requested the first alarm while en route, bringing Wagon 3, Rescue 69, and Air 13 to the scene. Chiefs Enterline and Souder also responded. Chief Wise arrived at a two-story, wood frame row dwelling with fire in two units. Access and truck positioning were difficult due to the narrow, tightly packed street. Squad 8 led off with a deck gun as members began stretching a blitz fire and other attack lines for an interior
attack. The visible fire was quickly knocked down but the fire had heavily involved the side B attached exposure, and an exposure on Thompson Street. Companies made an aggressive attack on the exposure buildings while the fire building remained a defensive operation. The bulk of fire was knocked in about 35 minutes and all searches were negative. Truck 32 and Engine 30 were special called for manpower and to assist with extensive overhaul. No injuries were reported and the fire affected four dwellings. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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House, Church Go in Steelton
As companies were clearing the scene of fire involving two dwellings in Company 34’s (Paxtonia) area on April 10, 2020, Box 501 was struck at 1712 for fire in a Swatara Street house in the Borough of Steelton. Company 50, Engine 91-2, Wagon 4, Rescues 40, 59 and 88, Tower 1, and Air 30 made up the initial companies. Engine 50 secured a water supply. Crews had heavy fire from the rear of a 21/2 story, wood frame, vacant dwelling at on South 2nd Street. Chief 50 requested the first alarm and requested Truck 32, which just cleared the 34 Box. Middletown Truck 88 was added to the box in place of Steelton Truck 50. High winds created a severe exposure issue to the south which was an unattached larg, church that has
been in the community for over 100 years. Despite efforts of crews working the house, the fire was able to get into the roof area of the church. A line was quickly stretched into the church for initial fire attack. Command 50 (Vance) requested the second alarm bringing numerous units to the scene. Interior crews in the dwelling reported a large hole in the first floor. The church was evacuated at 1806 and companies went defensive. The fire was darkened down in about an hour with extensive overhaul required in both structures. The fire was placed under control about 1900 hours. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb and Seth Lasko
Allentown Commercial Fire
Firefighters from the City of Allentown were dispatched to the DeJaVu Lounge on Hamilton Street in Allentown recently. Crews were advised that police reported an active fire and were evacuating the building. Crews arrived to find a basement fire that has extended upwards and was working its way onto the second floor. A second alarm was struck bringing in additional apparatus and manpower. Crews worked for over an hour to gain control of the fire. - Fire News photos by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr., and Rich Rolen
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Garbage Truck Fire A load of garbage inside a garbage truck caught fire and was dumped in an empty parking lot. Crews from Lower Burrell, Upper Burrell, and Logan’s Ferry Heights responded. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Wires Complicate Bensalem Fight Firefighters in Bensalem battled a one-alarm house fire on State Road in late March 2020. Companies from Bensalem were greeted with heavy smoke from the second floor of the dwelling. No injuries were reported. Crews had to move apparatus due to overhead power lines that threatened to come down. The blaze was brought under control in about 20 minutes. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
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Car Fire in Lancaster Township
Lancaster Township volunteers responded to a vehicle fire on Judie Lane at Colchester Drive. The driver was experiencing a sudden loss of power and an odor of smoke while driving. After the driver pulled to the curb to investigate, the car burst into flames.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames within minutes of arrival. The car was a total loss. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Blaze Levels Halifax Garage On April 7, 2020, crews responded for a structure fire in the Halifax 29-6 box for a detached garage fully involved. Chief 29 took command. Engine 29-1 stretched a line to the A side of the structure. At this point, a majority of the garage had been consumed by the fire, however a nearby pickup on the adjacent property was now fully involved as well. Crews went to work on the remaining portions of the garage as Chief 29-3 stretched a second line to attack the truck fire. Tanker 29, Utility 29, Utility 29-1, Brush 29, Engines 20 and 216 and Tanker 216 arrived. Despite a rapid response the garage was completely leveled and the nearby truck totaled. The home in front of the garage sustained minor melting to a small area of siding. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Lykens Commercial Fire On February 29, 2020, firefighters responded to Indian Trail Road for a commercial fire in a barn in Lykens. Crews were advised by command of an approximately 30- x 60-foot barn fully involved. Crews arrived to heavy smoke and fire pushing from the east side of the building. As crews began their attack, others took to ladders to vent the structure. At one point a propane cylinder exploded narrowly missing a firefighter. Under direction from command it was decided to utilize the deck gun from Gratz Engine 27. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Franklin Park Log Cabin Fire At 1855 on April 3, 2020, firefighters were dispatched to a house fire located along Washington Lane in Franklin Park Borough. Fire crews arrived to find a log cabin style home with heavy fire showing and mutual aid was requested. Crews battled for over 90 minutes before the fire was finally brought under control. Crews faced water supply issues due to the location of the home. No one was injured or home at the time of the fire. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Pets Rescued at New Kensington Fire A residential structure fire on 5th Avenue in New Kensington was fought by all five New Kensington departments, Arnold 2 and Lower Burrell 69. Several cats were rescued from the house. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Page 20, Fire News, May/June 2020
Quick Stop in Whitehall Firefighters from the Whitehall Fire Department, along with Catasauqua and Greenawalds, were dispatched to a dwelling fire on Schadt Avenue on February 22, 2020. Assistant Chief Bilder arrived and a second alarm was struck, bringing in additional companies from Whitehall. Engine 39 (Egypt) forced entry and deployed an attack line. Engine 37 (West Catasauqua) assisted with the attack line. Engine 38 (Hokendauqua) deployed a backup line. Crews had a basement fire extinguished within a few minutes. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Hoarding Conditions at Silver Spring Twp. Fire At 2317 on March 14, 2020, Engine Companies 31, 33 and 37; Squad 2;, Tankers 31 and 33; Rescue 30; Truck 29; and RIT 25 were dispatched to North Road for a garage fire. Chief 29 arrived to a well involved detached garage that extended to the dwelling. A second-alarm assignment was requested, bringing Engine Companies 30 and 38, Tankers 23 and 41, Truck 23, Rescue 45, RIT 69 and Air 13. Companies led off with a 2-1/2 inch line and master stream operations from Truck 29. Crews stretched handlines to the interior where they encountered fire in the attic and hoarding conditions on the second floor. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes. Additional lines were stretched to the rear where crews also found fire in the basement which was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Williamstown 2-Alarm Structure Fire On March 28, 2020, Williamstown crews went into action for a structure fire located a few hundred yards east of their station. Williamstown EMS arrived to smoke and fire showing from the C side of an old church and reports of someone still inside. The level was upgraded and box was filled for a second alarm. Crews arrived and made an aggressive attack on the fire along the C-side chimney. Crews were able to hold the fire from spreading up a void and into the roof. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
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Apartment Fire in O’Hara Twp. On April 22, 2020, just after 1730, firefighters were called to the Fox Chapel Mews Apartment complex on Fox Chapel Road in O’Hara Township for a fire. Crews arrived to find one building charged with smoke and found a working kitchen fire in a third-floor apartment. Crews quickly knocked down the fire then began assisting multiple people out of the building. Crews remained on-scene for over an hour before residents were given the go-ahead to return to their apartments. No one was injured and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
McKeesport Abandoned Structure Fire
At 2020 on March 27, 2020, City of McKeesport firefighters were dispatched to the 1400 block of Patterson Avenue for a residential structure fire. Crews quickly arrived to find an abandoned structure on fire. Crews made an aggressive attack while a second alarm was requested. The fire was placed under control at 2055. No one was injured and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Dauphin Middle Paxton Handle Structure Fire On April 9, 2020, Dauphin Middle Paxton Fire Company responded for a structure fire on Fishing Creek Valley Road. Attack 38, already operating on an electrical hazard, broke free and responded. Attack 38 arrived to fire showing and members went to work with the booster line in an attempt to hold the fire until additional units arrived. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
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Mattress Fire Snuffed Recently, firefighters from Upper Macungie Township responded to Barn Swallow Lane for a dwelling fire. Police reported heavy smoke on the second floor. Chiefs 802 and 801 arrived on scene, and 802 went inside with a can and made a hit on a mattress fire. Additional crews arrived on scene and performed overhaul. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
6 Homes Go in Harrisburg Uptown Row
On April 4, 2020, at 0055, Harrisburg Box 1-3 sent Wagon 3, Squad 8, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief 5 (Lloyd) to Wiconisco Street in the city’s Uptown neighborhood for a residential structure fire. Wagon 3 arrived to fire showing from the roof a three-story, middle-of-the-row dwelling and stretched a 1-3/4 inch line. Chief 5 requested the first alarm, bringing Wagon 4, Rescue 69, and Air 13 to the scene and county companies to cover. Two lines were stretched for fire on the second floor. The fire was able to extend to the third floor and cockloft of all six homes in the row. Chief 5 requested the second alarm, bringing county Engines 37-1, 30, Trucks 32 and 50 to the scene. Once the fire was darkened down from handlines and deck gun from Squad 8, extensive overhaul and mop up was required. The fire was placed under control in about an hour and left several people homeless. Primary and secondary searches were negative. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Early Morning Garage Fire
At 0400 on April 4, 2020, Stations 102 (Washington Twp.), 115 (Upper Burrell), 78 (Sardis), 64 (White Valley), 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell), 20/169 (Apollo), 101 (Markle), 49 (Oklahoma) and 610
(Murrysville Medic One) responded to a garage fire on Crestview Drive in Washington Township. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Parks Township House Fire
Stations 200 (Parks Twp.), 170 (North Apollo), 50 and 51 (Vandergrift), 140 (Kiski Twp.), 20 (Apollo), 150 (Leechburg), 101 (Markle), 130 (Kittanning), Tanker and Air 100 (Gilpin), Tanker
270 (Bethel), Tanker 290 (Burrell), and 610 (Murrysville Medic One) responded to a residential structure fire on Washington Street, Parks Township. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Page 24, Fire News, May/June 2020
Kittanning Commercial Blaze
Stations 110, 120 and 130 (Kittanning), 240 (West Kittanning), 260 (Rayburn Twp.), 80 (Ford Cliff), 90 (Ford City) and 160 (Manor Twp.) were called to South Water Street in Kittanning for a commercial structure fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
McKeesport Vacant House Fire On March 16, 2020, at 1848, fire crews were dispatched to the area of Easler and Main Streets in the City of McKeesport for a house fire. Police reported heavy smoke in the area. The first arriving engine found a fully involved vacant home on Easler Street and a second alarm was requested. Crews set up a defensive attack that continued for over an hour before the fire was placed under control. Two juvenile females were arrested and charged with four counts of arson and four counts of risking a catastrophe. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Outbuilding Fire in Lancaster Township Lancaster Township Volunteers were dispatched to Turnbridge Drive in Wedge Wood Estates for an outbuilding fire on March 21, 2020. Firefighters arrived to a small shed engulfed next to a larger detached three-bay wooden garage. The flames were autoexposing the garage wall and starting to advance up the roof. Firefighters were unable to access the garage’s interior due to it being filled with items. Lancaster Township Rescue/Engine 66, Engine 66-3, New Danville Rescue 55, Tanker 55 and Engine 55-1 all attacked the fire from the New Danville Pike driveway. Lancaster Township Engine 66-1 hit the hydrant and stretched 200 feet of hose from the Turnbridge Drive cul-de-sac. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Pig Barn Goes in Upper Mahantongo Twp. Just before 0100 on March 2, 2020, crews from Mahantongo Fire Company District 10 were dispatched to a commercial fire at a 75- x 250-foot pig barn in Upper Mahantongo Township. As they neared the scene they requested the tanker task force. Engine 10-10, Tanker 10-30 arrived and put two 1-3/4 inch handlines and blitz fire into service. Hegins Valley Rescue 13-10 arrived and laid a five-incher to 10-30 and 10-10. Sacramento Engine 14-10 established a dump tank and picked up the five-incher to supply 13-10. Engine 65 set up a fill site for tankers nearby on Kopp Road. North End Ladder 58-25 set up near the structure and Attack 10-40 provided lighting. Shamokin Rescue 62 was RIT. Crews worked to pull tin and extinguish remaining visible flames. They were hampered by a majority of the tin roof falling directly over the center of the structure. While some crews were released from the scene, others continued to operate for several hours. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
1 Dead at Lehigh County Motel Blaze Firefighters from multiple Lehigh County units battled a two-alarm fire at the Iron Run Motel on April 18, 2020. Crews were dispatched for a report of a man on fire inside the room. An ambulance from Cetronia EMS arrived and its crew reported a working fire with smoke showing from the room. A second alarm was quickly struck. Crews arrived on scene and began stretching lines but the male inside was found deceased. Crews were able to make a quick knock on the fire and kept it to one room. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
8 Injured at Brentwood Apartment Blaze On April 8, 2020, eight people were taken to the hospital and several pets were rescued after a two-alarm apartment building fire in the 3300 block of Brownsville Road in Brentwood. According to John Balkovec, Deputy Chief of Brentwood EMS, there were a dozen people who needed to be rescued from windows in the building when emergency personnel arrived. The Salvation Army was on scene to assist. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
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House, Garage, Vehicle Fire On January 20, 2020, Stations 78 (Sardis), 115 (Upper Burrell), 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell), 56-1, 2 and 4 (New Kensington), 95-1 and 2 (Arnold), 101 (Markle), 99 (Allegheny Twp.), 102 (Washington Twp.), 233 (Unity), 234 (Renton), 235 (Logan’s Ferry Heights), 236 (Holiday Park), and 610 (Murrysville Medic One) responded to Lincoln Boulevard in Upper Burrell, for a house, garage and vehicle on fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Allentown Porch Fire Firefighters from the Allentown Fire Department were dispatched to Union Street for a dwelling fire. Additional information reported a porch fire. Crews arrived and found fire inside an enclosed porch. One line was stretched and the fire was knocked down quickly. A dog was removed from a neighboring residence by a firefighter. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
House Fire in Whitehall Township Just before 1100 on March 21, 2020, crews were called to the 2100 block of South First Avenue in Whitehall Township in Lehigh county, for a fully-involved house fire. Firefighters went into service in a defensive attack. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Rich Rolen
3 Left Homeless in Upper Allen Twp. On March 10, 2020, at 0317, Cumberland County Box 23-103 sent firefighters to Hemlock Road for a basement fire. Chief 23 arrived and requested a second alarm for heavy fire showing from the rear. Companies led off with an exterior attack using the deck gun from Engine 23 and a 2-1/2 inch line to the rear. The fire building sat below the grade of the street and was two stories in the rear. A collapse of side A required members to maintain a safe perimeter. Additional handlines were operated and an additional collapse occurred on the C/D side. Two adults and a teenager were left homeless. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 29
Avonmore Structure Fire Stations 55 (Avonmore), 67 (Bell Township), 59 (Slickville), 131 (Saltsburg), 102 (Washington Township), 140 (Kiski Township), 78 (Sardis), 20 (Apollo), 330 (Tunnelton/Conemaugh Twp.) responded to Cambria Avenue in Avonmore for a residential structure fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Family Displaced in Northampton Borough Blaze On April 4, 2020 at 0543, a Northampton Borough box was struck for a house fire in the 2200 block of Main Street. Chief Keith Knoblach made the call for an interior attack. The fire was placed under control around 0715. The family residing at the house was displaced. - Fire News photo by Rich Rolen
Page 30, Fire News, May/June 2020
Penn Hills House Fire
On April 19, 2020, firefighters were dispatched to the 400 block of Guylyn Drive for a house fire. Penn Hills Chief 227 advised dispatch he could see a header from the area. He arrived to a 1-1/2 story home with fire showing from the bravo side. Crews went to work and were able to quickly knock down the fire. Crews then began to perform overhaul and vent the home. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Porch Fire Damages Williamstown Home On April 3, 2020, firefighters responded to a structure fire in Williamstown. Williamstown Ambulance 24-2 arrived and confirmed a porch fire on the A side of a 2-1/2 story single-family dwelling. As Captain 24 was radioing an update, the front porch roof collapsed onto the sidewalk, allowing the fire to extend up the front of the home. Tanker 24 and Chief 24 went to work to begin the initial attack knocking down a majority of the visible fire with the bumper trash line off of Tanker 24. Engine 24 laid into Tanker 24. Due to the initial quick attack most of the fire damage was held to the front half of the home. Numerous units assisted. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Nice Stop at Lower Paxton Apt. Fire At 0843 on April 13, 2020, Box 35-1 sent Company 35, Engines 33, 34, 26-1, Truck 34, Tanker 37, and Rescue 37 to North Blue Ribbon Avenue for an apartment fire. Linglestown Captain 35 advised of a fire in the apartment with a burn patient. All occupants were reported evacuated. Command 35 had companies to bring a line through the front door. A line was stretched from Paxtonia Engine 34 and quickly knocked down a room and contents fire with no extension. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Smoke in Movie Theater On April 8, 2020, around 1000, Frazer Township (Allegheny County) fire crews were dispatched to a report of flames and smoke coming from the roof the Cinemark Theater located in the Pittsburgh Mills Mall. Crews arrived and found a small fire caused by a broken gas line after a small tornado ripped off the rooftop heating units. Units quickly cleared as Frazer Township’s Fire Chief stayed on-scene awaiting the gas company. Around 1130, a manager reported smoke inside the theater and a full structure assignment was re-dispatched. Crews found smoke from the previous fire inside and ventilated the structure for about 30 minutes before returning into service. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Millersburg Barn Fire On March 3, 2020, at 0104, the Millersburg Fire Company was dispatched for a small outside fire on Berrysburg Road. Chief Snyder was informed the caller could see a large fire and glow between Berrys-burg Road and Shippen Dam Road. The Chief arrived to a fully involved barn fire on Sheetz Road and requested the first alarm. Millersburg’s Tanker and Engine 20 arrived and set up a dump site and crews pulled a three-inch line with blitz fire and a preconnect to protect the east exposure. After dumping its water, the tanker proceeded to the north side of the farm house to assist in exposure protection. Initial extinguishment efforts were made on a camper which had a propane cylinder attached. Most of the structure had collapsed. Reliance Hose Company Rescue and Tanker 21 arrived and set up an additional port-a-pond and they, along with tankers from Berrysburg 26, Fisherville 216 and Halifax 29, began shuttle operations from a fill site where Halifax Fire 29 established a water supply at a pond. Crews spent most of the night trying to extinguish the blaze which consisted of some equipment and old hay. Fisherville 216-1 stood by in quarters at Station 20. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Butler 2-Alarmer On March 22, 2020, Butler County 911 received a call for a house on fire on West North Street in the City of Butler. Station 1 (Butler City), Station 3 (Butler Township Fire District), Station 38 (VA Fire Department), Station 99 (Butler Ambulance) and Butler City Police were dispatched. Units arrived to a two-story single-family residence with fire on the second floor. All off-duty shifts were brought in as part of a second alarm. Crews worked on containing the fire, however they found additional pockets of fire in different locations of the residence. Crews contained the fire and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Page 32, Fire News, May/June 2020
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Medevac in Lower Burrell Lower Burrell Station 69 set up an LZ for the transport of a heart attack patient. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Might Wanna’ Slow it Down Next Time Two people were injured recently when a box truck and car collided in Bristol Township in Bucks County. Edgley Fire Company responded to the incident, and police said the cause was a driver going through a light while driving at a high rate of speed. The truck was making a delivery across the street. The injuries were said to be minor. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
2 Fatalities at I-95 Head-on Firefighters from Bensalem and Bristol were on I-95 at the city line for a two-vehicle crash. Police say a vehicle traveling the wrong way on the expressway slammed head-on into another car. At least two people were killed in the crash. Several people were trapped in one of the vehicles. Companies went in service with hydraulic tools to take off a door. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 33
Lucky Driver in Lancaster Township
Lancaster Township Fire Department volunteers were dispatched at 0834. on April 13, 2020, for a vehicle accident with entrapment. A tree fell on the hood of a moving car on Schoolhouse Road near the intersection of Schoolhouse and Abbeyville Roads in Lancaster Township during a wind and rain storm. Doug’s Tree Service, which
resides next to the incident, grabbed their chain saws and were able to extricate the driver by cutting an exit path through the tree limbs to the driver’s door. The driver was uninjured. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Page 34, Fire News, May/June 2020
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Motorcycle MVA in Lower Burrell Station 69 responded to a motorcycle accident call on Leechburg Road in Lower Burrell. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Rollover, Entrapment at Allegheny Twp. MVA On February 25, 2020, Stations 99 (Allegheny Twp.), 101 (Markle) and 69 (Lower Burrell) were called to Garver’s Ferry Road in Allegheny Township for a rollover MVA with entrapment and injuries. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
1 Fatality, 1 Critical in Bensalem MVA Firefighters from Bensalem worked to remove people trapped after a two-vehicle accident on Route 13 and Hulmeville Road in Bensalem recently. The crash killed one male, a Bensalem resident, and critically injured another. Companies were in service in spite of a heavy rain. The accident happened just after Pennsylvania Governor Wolf issued a stay-a- home order. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 35
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Up Close & Personal
Members of the Allentown Fire Department, at an apartment fire at 8th and Turner Streets on April 23, 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
On April 19, 2020, Penn Hills firefighters were dispatched to the 400 block of Guylyn Drive for a house fire. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
City of Butler Captain Fair on scene of a house fire in Butler City on March 22, 2020. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
On April 10, 2020, a call came in for a two-alarm structure fire in the Borough of Steelton. Many companies assisted on scene. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
On April 10, 2020, Box 34-4 toned for a report of black smoke coming from house on North Highlands Drive. Company 34, Engines 32, 33 and 35, Rescue 36-1 and 46, and Truck 34 responded. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
On January 20, 2020, crews from Stations 78 (Sardis), 115 (Upper Burrell), 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell), 56-1, 2 and 4 (New Kensington), 95-1 and 2 (Arnold), 101 (Markle), 99 (Allegheny Twp.), 102 (Washington Twp.), 233 (Unity), 234 (Renton), 235 (Logan’s Ferry Heights), 236 (Holiday Park), and 610 (Murrysville Medic One) responded to Lincoln Boulevard in Upper Burrell, for a fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 37
Up Close & Personal
On March 11, 2020, Stations 102 (Washington Twp.), 78 (Sardis), 236 (Holiday Park), 115 (Upper Burrell), 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell) and 610 (Murrysville Medic One) were called to Turkey Ridge Road in Washington Township for a residential structure fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
The Lehigh County Station 99 personnel Forest Fire Task Force (Flame Tamers) take a minute for a group photograph during a two-day training session in March 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
On April 3, 2020, crews were called to reports of smoke coming from a vacant structure in South Park. The call was quickly upgraded to a second alarm with heavy smoke pushing from the structure. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager Lancaster Townnship Firefighters Zach Ross, Melvin Reyes, Jose Colon and Tyler Weiler after a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
At 2020 on March 27, 2020, City of McKeesport firefighters were dispatched to the 1400 block of Patterson Avenue for a residential structure fire. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
On March 21, 2020, crews were called to the 2100 block of South First Avenue in Whitehall Township in Lehigh county, for a fullyinvolved house fire. - Fire News photo by Rich Rolen
Page 38, Fire News, May/June 2020
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Training
Fireground Survival Program Sponsored by MTFR
On March 7, 2020, Manheim Township Fire Rescue sponsored the Fireground Survival program presented by Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder from the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department. Chief Goldfeder presented — through video, audio and a “wake up” lecture — an in-depth program featuring specific and very recent fireground events with a strong focus on dwelling and small commercial structures which ended with tragic results. The program focused specifically on the lessons learned so that these incidents
(and those involved) are never forgotten. The very personal, high energy, direct and frank command, operations and tactics program presented firefighters with an excellent opportunity to apply the lessons learned to their own departments and themselves, potentially avoiding “history tragically repeating itself.” Seventy-five mutual aid and Manheim Township Fire Rescue firefighters were in attendance. - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
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Training
Basic Vehicle Rescue Training
Members of the Aspinwall, Cherry City and Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Departments got together prior to the Covid-19 virus outbreak and worked on their basic vehicle rescue stabilization skills. Crews worked with cribbing, struts, various powered and hand tools and airbags. Crews were instructed on vehicle dynamics, restraint systems, framework and vehicle airbags. - Submitted by Aspinwall Emergency Management
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 41
Aspinwall Member Aspinwall Member Aspinwall Member Spotlight Spotlight Spotlight Nick Scheid, Jr. Lee Albacker Jack Lovey From time to time, we are going to recognize some of our volunteer firefighters, who are doing good work as a volunteer firefighter for the Aspinwall Volunteer Fire Department. Nick Scheid Jr., has been a member of the department for over 50 years. He is currently the President of our department and actively serves on many committees. He is also the Treasurer of the Relief Association. Nick has served as Chief of the Department and prior to retirement, he worked for Valspar and served as Chief. Nick has a great engineering background and serves as a mentor to the younger members of the department. Nick has been awarded a few times with the department’s Art Esser award for going above and beyond. His dedication to AVFD is simply incredible. When Nick is not at the station, he can be found at home with his wife, Ginny. He is very active in his neighborhood. In addition to volunteering for the department, he also volunteers as a member of the Borough’s Planning Commission. Nick is a great example as a member, a husband and a member of the community. We wish Nick the very best going forward. - Submitted by Aspinwall Emergency Management
Here we will focus on another one of our former Chiefs and Life Members, Lee Albacker. Lee has been serving the citizens and visitors of Aspinwall Volunteer Fire Department as a firefighter for 51 years. Lee has served in every line officer position. He served as an Assistant Chief for six years and 13 years as Chief. And boy, he can wheel a fire truck! Someone once said, “Once a fire chief, always a fire chief.” You don’t get to be a fire chief without respect and Chief Albacker is well respected in the Borough of Aspinwall and in our volunteer fire department. Lee has been employed as the Aspinwall Department of Public Works Foreman for many years and recently retired. He and his wife will get to enjoy their grandchildren more often now. This former Chief is very knowledgeable of Aspinwall history and, on several occasions, has taken the time to share this knowledge. He also has a great sense of humor. We wish him and his wife, Claudia, all the best that retirement can offer. If you would like to be a member of our department, like Chief Albacker, we would love to have you! We offer several types of memberships in our department. To learn more about us, stop by the firehouse on a Tuesday evening. - Submitted by Aspinwall Emergency Management
Jack Lovey, “Mr. Lovey” as most of us know him, came to our department in March 1957, and is now in his 63rd year with us. Mr. Lovey was employed for 40-plus years at US Steel in Public Affairs. Community service has been the driving force of his legacy. He served on the Aspinwall Borough Council for 28 years, six of those as Council President. In addition, he served as Finance Chairman for the local Council of Governments. In the AVFD, Mr. Lovey served as Secretary and was considered to be a financial wizard as Treasurer. Mr. Lovey was instrumental in establishing savings accounts for equipment and anything other the members needed. During his years as Treasurer, he started life insurance policies for members, and when one of our members passed away, he hand-delivered checks to the member’s family. On October 8, 1998, Mr. Lovey was presented with a Pennsylvania House of Representatives Citation, recognizing his longtime commitment of service to the town. In 2018, at the 125th Anniversary Dinner, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. Mr. Lovey is one of our most respected members in our volunteer fire department. - Submitted by Aspinwall Emergency Management
Page 42, Fire News, May/June 2020
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FFs Brings Holiday Cheer to Residents … But First, a Fire
Firefighters Jason Pacheco, Jose Colon, Pat Egan (Bunny), Andrew Foster and Melvin Reyes.
Lancaster Township volunteer first responders celebrated their community on April 11, 2020, the day before Easter Sunday, by driving the Easter Bunny through Lancaster Township as a replacement for the many cancelled Easter activities and to bring a little bit of Easter happiness to the township children who have been sheltering in place due to the corona virus restrictions. The Easter Bunny was chauffeured around atop Engine 66-3 with lights flashing and sirens sounding, as families watched and waved from their front yards as the entourage wound its way down the streets. Emergencies occur at the most inopportune time ... just as the Easter Bunny ascended to the hose bed of Engine 66-3 and was ready to take off, the volunteers were dispatched to Quarry Lane for a stove fire. The bunny (Pat Egan), doffed the bunny gear and responded to the call in the engine. - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
Lower Macungie Fire Department’s New Deliveries
Brush 161, a 2001 Ford F-250/Reading 250/250 of the Lower Macungie Fire Department’s Alburtis Station.
Utility 8191, a 2008 GMC D4500 Topkick/Platisol of the Lower Macungie Fire Department’s Fire Brandywine Station.
- Fire News photos by Stephen Lenz
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 43
COVID-19 Test Sites Established Philadelphia firefighters and members of PA Task Force One set up a COVID-19 test site on the grounds of Citizens Bank Park. This large regional site was in operation for about a month. People drove through, got a test and the results were back in about a week. Several thousand people from the Delaware Valley were tested before the site was closed in mid-April 2020. Task Force One also helped set up a temporary hospital at Temple University’s Liacouras Center. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Early COVID Briefing in Philadelphia A Philadelphia firefighter cleans the microphones and the podium, before a media briefing on COVID-19. The briefing was done in the lobby of the fire department and was attended by City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley, Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel and City Managing Director Brian Abernathy. This was held in the middle of March 2020. Recent briefings have been via Zoom. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Page 44, Fire News, May/June 2020
Langhorne-Middletown Annual Banquet
The Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company hosted its 62nd Annual Banquet on February 1, 2020, at the Middletown Country Club in Langhorne. The 2020 Administrative Officers are President Kurt Geiselhart, Vice-President Steve Link, Financial Secretary William Meredith, Treasurer Steven Weng, Secretary Lou Ann Geiselhart, Trustee (Chairman) Jerry Vacchiano, Trustee Larry Harvey, Trustee Ray Hopkins, Trustee John Scheetz, and Trustee Joe Taylor. The 2020 Line Officers are Fire Chief Frank Farry, Deputy Chief Joe Taylor, Assistant Chief 21 Patrick McWilliams, Assistant Chief 22 Bob Walter, Captain 22 Michael Lentine, Lieutenant 21 Chris Gentry, Safety Officer Steve Link, and Chief Engineer Charlie Berk. The 2020 Fire Police are Fire Police Captain Larry Harvey, Fire Police Lieutenant William Meredith, Fire Police Sergeant Joe Epp, and Fire Police Corporal Joe Gordon. Honored guest were Langhorne Borough Government Mayor Joe Taylor, Council President Kari Thomas, Councilwoman Kristen Farry, Langhorne Borough Police Department Chief John Godzieba, Langhorne Manor Borough Government Mayor Robert Byrne, Council President Dawn Seader, Councilwoman Marianne Barnes, Langhorne Manor Police Department Officer Sean DiMeo, Middletown Township Government Vice-Chairperson Amy Strous, Middletown Township Police Department Chief Joe Bartorilla, Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company Chaplin Reverend Laurie Pfahle, United States Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, Pennsylvania State Senator Tommy Tomlinson, Pennsylvania State Representative Frank Farry, Parkland Fire Company
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Chief T. J. Stressman, Penndel Fire Company Chief Gary Laird, William Penn Fire Company Chief Any Conway and PenndelMiddletown Emergency Squad Chief Andy Foley. Friends of the fire company: Brothers Pizza - Sal Penza, Langhorne Hardware- Hank Carfagno, Romaine Macht. Special guests were Cheryl Kauffman and Judy Sloan. Years of Service awards were presented to: five years - John Dearing and Matthew Marinelli; 10 years - Joe Epp, Kurt Geiselhart, John Stanford, Mark Stanford, and James Walter; 15 years - Rick Hazelett, Ray Hopkins, and Kevin Wagner; 20 years - Bob Walter; 25 years Larry Harvey and Chris Taylor; 40 years - Terry Jones and Tim Murphy; 45 years - Tim Stanford, Joe Taylor, and Kevin Transue; and 60 years Vern Jacobs. Top Responders for 2019 (682 alarms) Active Firefighters were: 215 alarms - Chris Gentry; 244 alarms - James Chalmers; 282 alarms - Steve Link; 294 alarms - Mike Lentine; 303 alarms - Bob Walter; 303 Alarms - Frank Farry; 316 Alarms - Patrick McWilliams; 320 alarms - Austin Sherlock; 361 alarms- Kurt Geiselhart; and 399 alarms - Joe Taylor. Top Responders for 2019 (682 alarms) Active Fire Police was 229 alarms - John Dearing. The 2019 President's Award was presented to Steve Weng. The 2019 Chief's Award was presented to Austin Sherlock. Special thanks goes out to the Parkland Fire Company for covering the district during the evening’s banquet. - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Goldberg
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Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 45
COVID Briefing in Philadelphia Dr. Thomas Farley, City of Philadelphia Health Commissioner; Adam Thiel, Fire Commissioner; Ken Pagurek, Task Force 1 Commander; and Chief Randolph from the Special Operations Division of the Philadelphia Fire Department speak to the media before opening the COVID-19 Test site at Citizens Bank Park in March 2020. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Philadelphia COVID-19 Briefing Dr. Thomas Farley Philadelphia Health Commissioner addresses the media during a COVID-19 briefing at Philadelphia Fire Department headquarters in early March. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Page 46, Fire News, May/June 2020
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Up Close & Personal
On April 8, 2020, eight people were taken to the hospital and several pets were rescued after a twoalarm apartment building fire in the 3300 block of Brownsville Road in Brentwood. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager On April 4, 2020, at 0055, Harrisburg Box 1-3 sent Wagon 3, Squad 8, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief 5 (Lloyd) to Wiconisco Street in the city’s Uptown neighborhood for a residential structure fire. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Lancaster Township Fire Department Fire Police Sergeant Lori Jones during a house fire at on Quarry Lane, on April 11, 2020. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman At 1855 on April 3, 2020, firefighters were dispatched to a house fire located along Washington Lane in Franklin Park Borough. Fire crews arrived to find a log cabin style home with heavy fire showing. Crews battled for over 90 minutes before the fire was brought under control. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Firefighters from the City of Allentown battled a three-alarm row home fire on Sycamore Street on February 19, 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr. Members of the Aspinwall, Cherry City and Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Departments got together, prior to the COVID-19 virus outbreak, and worked on their basic vehicle rescue stabilization skills. - Submitted by Aspinwall Emergency Management
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Cover Story
Wind-Driven Restaurant Fire
Firefighters from four counties battled a multiple alarm fire at Bubba’s Potbelly Stove Restaurant in Springfield Township, Bucks County, on April 21, 2020. The fire appeared to have started in a kitchen area and worked its way to the upper level. Crews not only contended with water supply issues, but also had to battle gusting winds which helped spread the fire. - Fire News photos by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr. and Rich Rolen
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NYS ASSN. OF FIRE CHIEFS FIRE 2020 CANCELLED The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs board of directors regretfully announces the cancellation of the NYSAFC 114th Annual Conference & FIRE 2020 Expo, which was scheduled for June 10-13 of this year, at The Oncenter in Syracuse, NY. After carefully considering current federal recommendations, New York state directives, and local mandates related to COVID19, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and logistical issues, the board reached the decision not to reschedule the event for later this year. All attendees and exhibitors will have the option to receive credit for next year’s FIRE 2021 registration or a refund. Hotel reservations made through NYSAFC will be canceled by Visit Syracuse and no further action is necessary. Attendees that made hotel reservations outside of the group block and not through the association will be responsible for canceling their own reservations directly with their hotel. To help us carry on our tradition of “Providing Service To Those Who Serve,” we will need your support moving forward. If possible, we ask that you consider rolling over your registration to FIRE 2021, to take part in our training programs scheduled for later this year, and to renew your NYSAFC membership or join the association. Attendees with questions can email conference@nysfirechiefs.com, while exhibitors should contact fire@naylor.com.
Fire News, May/June 2020, Page 49
COMMAND LIGHT LAUNCHES WEBSITE REDESIGN WITH NEW LIGHT TOWER CONFIGURATOR Command Light, a leader in emergency lighting, has redesigned its website, commandlight.com, to mirror its redesigned catalog and introduce a new, interactive light tower configurator that helps fire and emergency departments browse Command Light’s product lineup. Command Light, based in Fort Collins, has manufactured light towers, traffic advisors and compact lighting for more than 25 years. The website’s new configurator allows departments to “build” their own light tower by selecting the tower’s size, color, power, head quantity, fixture brand and optional backlight. Once built, the configurator provides tower specs that can be saved or printed. Additionally, customers can obtain Word Specs for their truck planning committee, or they can request pricing for the configured tower. To build a light tower, visit commandlight.com/build-your-firetruck-light-tower. The website also features a number of pages dedicated to specific topics like Command Light’s patented differences, a light tower vs. perimeter light comparison study and industry pages that help promote Tow and Law Enforcement products. The site also includes a number of tools for existing customers, including warranty registration, product manuals, technical videos and a replacement parts store.
Page 50, Fire News, May/June 2020
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YardleyMakefield Remembers Firefighters and family members recently gathered at the Yardley Station for a memorial wreath ceremony honoring the LODD of Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Past Fire Chief Neslon ‘Snooky’ Margerum on March 15, 1992. Always Remembered, Never Forgotten! - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Goldberg
Parade for Boys Orphaned When Father Dies On April 10, 2020, a parade was held in Plum Borough for two boys who lost their father and only living parent. The parade was held to show love and support from the community. Stations 234 (Renton), 233 (Unity), 235 (Logan’s Ferry Heights), 236 (Holiday Park), 196 (Monroeville 6/Garden City), Plum Police and EMS attended the parade for the boys. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Announcements CVVFA CONVENTION CANCELLED FOR 2020
After careful deliberation, the Association has decided for the safety of our members and guests, the 2020 Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s convention scheduled for July 29-August 1 is cancelled. There is uncertainty that many of our members would be able to attend even if the National Emergency is lifted by mid-summer. The cancellation is the first time since World War II that there has not been a CVVFA Annual Convention. Unfortunately, this includes the 35th Annual CVVFA President’s Council meeting that is traditionally held during the convention. Some events are being planned for Fall of this year if circumstances warrant. We will be communicating these plans as they are formulated. CVVFA President Allen Baldwin has clearly stated our primary concern is the health and wellbeing of our members. We look forward to seeing everyone soon during better times.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS?
Fire News would like to remind its 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 li@firenews.com. We ask that any photos be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the 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.