West Reading and nearby companies were sent to the RM Palmer Company in West Reading for a reported explosion.
See story on page 5
On April 11, 2023, multiple units were dispatched to the former Century 3 Mall in West Mifflin for a fire.
See story on page 8
On March 16, 2023, firefighters were dispatched to a residential fire on the Oak Avenue Extension in Turtle Creek.
See story on page 12
The Fairview Township Fire Department and mutual aid responded to a house fire with entrapment on Thorley Road.
See story on page 14
On April 23, 2023, fire crews were called to a home to the Midway St. Clair section of Hempfield Township for a fire.
See story on page 20
Perkiomen Township Fire Company members recognized 53 years of service from volunteer Firefighter Loren Collins.
See story on page 40
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Several years ago, my fire department asked me to become involved with their driver qualification committee. Having served as a certified NYS Driver Education Instructor for 20-years, I felt I would enjoy being part of our Emergency Vehicle Operation course. So, for two full days I attended EVOC training that was provided through my department's insurance company. When I returned home, our chief set up a full committee to implement following the guidelines set forth by VFIS. The recommended guidelines included classroom time, a competency course, and a road course.
The training started with in-class instruction. Our insurance company provided us with a thumb drive that contained numerous videos and lessons for presentation to our students. I should point out that even our seasoned drivers had to participate in the class. It was the seasoned drivers who added and shared their experiences with the younger drivers. Their real-life experiences added realism to the in-class lesson. It should also be noted that this course was to be given every other year. Our committee decided that since new drivers were always being added to the list, we would present an updated lesson throughout the year at department meetings.
In addition to classroom learning, all drivers had to take the EVOC (Emergency Vehicle
Operator Course). This course soon became known as the “cone-course.” Since we marked the parking lot with paint, it was easy to set up the cone course throughout the year. Once the member finished the EVOC course, we left the parking lot to go on a road course. The course challenged the thought process of the driver. Our fire district has a few railroad crossings and railroad overhead tracks that have the maximum height requirement marked on the overpass. We made it a point to stop and take note of the maximum height requirement. Since our vehicles are marked in plain sight with that measurement in the cab of the truck, students know they must share that measurement with the evaluator.
In general, the course we set up was approved by our Board of Fire Commissioners. We are into this program for several years now, and we are continually tweaking the program so it stays current. If a driver leaves the department and comes back a few years later, it is easy to take a standardized road-test to re-familiarize the driver on the trucks on which he used to be qualified. Usually, the individual is fine with the operation and handling of the vehicle. Remember that all emergency vehicle operators should take EVOC. I also encourage officers to take the VFIS course to Train the Trainer.
Are we finished? Well not exactly. EVOC is
a program that shows the chauffer how to safely operate the piece of equipment that is being driven. PERIOD! Further training is needed to learn how to safely operate at a working call. What 's next? Read John Salka’s article on The Engine Company Chauffer: Part 1 The article is in the July 1997 Firehouse Magazine
Getting our responders safely to a call is important. Knowing what to do when you arrive on scene is equally as important.
Drive Safe!
- Dennis
On March 24, 2023, at around 1700 the Berks County Communications Center sent West Reading and surrounding companies to the RM PalmerCompany located on South 2nd Avenue in West Reading fora reported explosion. The first arriving units were met with heavy fire conditions and people trapped in the rubble. In total fouralarms were struck, bringing in many Berks County companies. The main body of the fire was knocked down within three hours. Crews spent hours dousing flare ups and checking forhot spots. Crews remained on scene searching fortrapped victims. Resources from Pennsylvania’s USAR Task Force 1 were requested and they worked fordays locating victims trapped beneath the rubble. Despite the efforts of all of the crews on scene, seven people perished in the explosion.
- Fire News photo by Geoffrey Wetherhold
On April 14, 2023, around 1217, Butler911 dispatched Station 3 (Butler Township Fire District) to East Jefferson Street ButlerCounty fordebris on fire. Ambulance 83-1 (Veterans Affairs Fire Department) was clearing ButlerHospital at the time of call and arrived on scene. Command 3 requested Station 1 (ButlerBureau of Fire) to assist. City fire units arrived and put out the fire.
- Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
McVeytown VolunteerFire Company recently responded to a working house fire.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Shoop
Just before 0100 on March 14, 2023, Monroeville firefighters were dispatched to an apartment fire located in the Cambridge Square apartments. Crew quickly arrived to find heavy fire showing from the alpha side of the building and quickly extending across the roof area. Crews began to make an aggressive attack while also assisting residents to evacuate Unfortunately, the building did not have a sprinklersystem orany type of fire stops, so the fire continued to spread consuming the entire complex. Crews battled the three-alarm fire forseveral hours in bittercold, snowy conditions before finally placing it undercontrol. Atotal of 65 people in 36 apartments were displaced. All the residents did make it out, but several were treated forburns and smoke inhalation. The fire was under investigation.
- Fire News photo by First Due Photography
On April 17, 2023, Derry Township Box 48-3 toned at 2102, forthe Hershey Fire Company and surrounding mutual aid to Dunham Drive fora structure fire. Company 48, Engine 46, and Tankers 54 and 59 made up the initial box alarm assignment. Chief 48-2 requested the first-alarm assignment. With no hydrants in the development, Chief 48 requested an additional tanker. Rescue 91-5, Chief 59 and Tanker59 arrived to a fully involved dwelling and advised companies would be performing exterioroperations. The fire building was a large, two-story, single-family dwelling with fire
on all floors and through the roof. There was a second floorcollapse on the D side. Command requested brush trucks to the scene as high winds fanned embers throughout the development sparing spot fires. Asecond alarm was struck and special calls were made. Handlines and aerial stream operations darkened the fire down in about an hourwith companies remaining on the scene foran extended period of time overhauling. The house is a total loss.
- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
On February 27, 2023, a call came in forKlingerstown Fire Company’s to respond fora brush fire growing in size to the rear of a residence. Engine and Tanker65 responded along with Pillow Fire Company Engine and Tanker28, Hickory Corners and Community Fire Company Brush 64, Tanker64 and Hegins EMS 1301. Crews found a roughly 1-1/2 acre sized area involved, spreading away from the home and up a mountain. Crews quickly went to work controlling the fire line as others worked to hose down the fire.
On February 21, 2023, crews were dispatched to a reported barn fire with animals trapped on Herndon Bypass Road in Jackson Township, Northumberland County. On crews’arrival, it was found to be a working skid loaderfire within the barn with numerous livestock also inside. Crews were able to make quick work of the fire and with the assistance of the owner, the skid loaderwas pulled out of the structure with a tractor forfurtherwetting down. With the quick response and rapid knock of the fire, only minordamage was done within the barn and no animals were harmed. Several crews were originally dispatched to the scene, however command downgraded the event and returned most units aftermarking control.
On April 11, 2023, at approximately 0613, multiple units were dispatched to the formerCentury 3 Mall in West Mifflin fora structure fire. Units arrived to heavy smoke in the structure. Units from all overAllegheny, Washington and Westmoreland were called to assist. Special ventilation trailers were brought in from US Steel Irvin Works and Collinsburg VolunteerFire Company, along with foam trailers from Allegheny County Emergency Services. The
mall, was once the world’s third largest mall when it opened in 1979 but has been vacant since 2019. No one was injured and the cause of the fire is still underinvestigation. The Allegheny County Fire Marshall was investigating the cause of the fire.
- Fire News photos by James Brooks, Nicholas Kurta, and First Due Photography
Firefighters from numerous departments in Lehigh and Berks County battled a multiple-alarm house fire on PathfinderRoad in Upper Macungie Township on February 11, 2023. The house was destroyed, despite firefighters’efforts.
- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
On April 14, 2023, at 0036, Bradford Township VolunteerFire Department was dispatched on Box 15-3 fora structure with possible entrapment. The second story of the house was well involved upon the arrival of Engine 151. A250-foot 1-3/4 inch line was placed into operation. Acrew entered the first floorand found one victim while doing a primary search. The victim was removed and life saving measures were initiated while awaiting the arrival of a paramedic ambulance from the City of Bradford. Derrick City was requested to operate as the RIT. Lewis Run and Corydon Township were placed on standby. Asecond line was stretched to the second floor. No additional victims were found by primary and secondary searches. Unfortunately, the victim that was rescued succumbed at the Bradford Regional Medical Center. Firefighters were on the scene forfourhours and 30 minutes.
- Fire News photo by Jay Bradish
On March 17, 2023, crews from Herndon, Hickory Corners and Pillow were called to an overnight crash with reported fire on Route 225 in Jackson Township. While responding crews were told the carwas fully involved and wires were down as well. On arrival they found a vehicle had sheared off a utility pole, left the roadway, re-entered the roadway, then struck anotherpole and became engulfed. Crews assisted with extinguishment of the fire while PSP and EMS conducted patient evaluation.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Philadelphia firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire at the DollarTree on the 6400 block of Frankford Avenue. The building was destroyed. About a week ago an arsonist set the store’s trash dumpsteron fire.
Just before 0400 on March 16, 2023, firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire located along Oak Avenue Extension i n Turtle Creek, Allegheny County. Crews quickly arrived and found a duplex with the roof well involved. Crews went to work with an offensive attack. Asecond alarm was requested as firefighters continued to battle the stubborn fire forabout two hours before the fire was placed under control. One firefightersuffered minorburns and a second firefighter was transported to a local hospital with an eye injury. It is unclearif anyone resided in the duplex at the time of the fire, which was under investigation.
- Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Crews were dispatched to the house on Lafferty Ave around 2000 on the night of April 22, 2023. Heavy black smoke could be seen before crews arrived, with additional callers reporting flames through the roof. Once the towerwas placed in service, the flames were quickly extinguished. However, the home was a complete loss. Residents made it out of the home safely, with some cats unaccounted for.
Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company were recently dispatched foran carfire in the Makefield Glen Development in Lower Makefield Township. Yardley-Makefield FirefighterJason Sciortino (nozzle) and FirefighterPatrick Saletta extinguishing the fire
At 1812 on January 31, 2023, Perkiomen Township’s Engine 66 responded to a chimney fire at a residence in the 700-block of Main Street (nearthe intersection of Main St/Route 29 and Mine Hill Road) in Schwenksville Borough. Engine 66 responded as mutual aid to support LowerFrederick Fire Company Station 52. Crews from 52 and Skippack Fire Company Station 86 found fire in the lowerchimney area of a wood burning stove. Once the first-floorpipes were removed and the stove secured, the home was turned back to the homeowner.
On February 6, 2023, shortly after0117, the Fairview Township Fire Department and surrounding mutual aid responded to a house fire with entrapment on Thorley Road. Chief 68 arrived to a fully involved house fire and advised companies would be taking a defensive posture. Aportable pond was set up and firefighters stretched lines and used the master stream from New Cumberland Truck 10 to knock down the bulk of the fire. Firefighters located one occupant who was pronounced Class 4 on the scene, The fire was placed undercontrol in an hourand the house was destroyed.
Firefighters responded to the TrexlerPark Apartments on BennerR oad fora fire. Battalion Chief Pete Lenig was informed numerous calls were reporting fire through the roof. Chief Lenig requested an additional truck company be dispatched on the box. Upon arriving, Engine 10’s lieutenant reported a working fire with flames showing and quickly struck a second alarm. Arriving crews went to work and made a quick knock on the fire. Numerous apartments were damaged during the fire.
- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Just before 1500 on April 12, 2023, fire crews were dispatched fora brush fire endangering structures located along the 800 block of Franklin Street in the City of New Kensington. Police reported two structures on fire with a third in dangerwith someone trapped inside. Crews quickly assisted the resident out of the third home and began attacking the fire as one vacant home was fully involved, with a second home also on fire. Once the bulk of the exteriorfire was knocked down, crews entered the occupied home and began an interiorattack while othercrews set up a defensive attack on the vacant home. The fire was able to be placed undercontrol in about 45 minutes. The fire was sparked by someone using a fire pit in dry, windy conditions. The vacant home was deemed a total loss and the second, occupied home sustained heavy fire damage. No injuries were reported.
- Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Firefighters from the Palmerton Fire Department, along with Bowmanstown, Aquashicola and Walnutport, were dispatched fora reported structure fire at the Heaven and Earth Inn on Mauch Chunk Road on April 22, 2023. Crews arrived to find the rearexteriorof the building on fire. An attack line was stretched and placed in service. Crews made a quick knock on the fire and began opening up the siding to check forany additional extension.
At 71929 on February 18, 2023, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched fora building fire at the abandoned Kinsey Distillery. Ladder51, Engine 51, Tanker51, Squad 51, Rescue 51, Utility 51-2, Assistant 51, Chief 51, and 51 Fire Police responded. Also dispatched were Royersford, Ridge and Norco. Aresident in the area reported seeing flames from the backyard. Atrash fire on the first floorof the warehouse was found. The building was in the process of being demolished. The crew from ChesterEngine 62-1 extinguished the fire and checked forextension.
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
On April 5 2023, area crews operated at a working house fire in Fairview, York County. Engines and Tankers from 66, 67, 68 and 69, along with Truck 23 and Tanker23 contained the fire to the garage. Firefighters made quick work of the blaze and no serious injuries were reported.
- Photo courtesy of Fairview Township FD & JS Fire Photo
On April 4, 2023, at around 1600, the Lehigh County Communications Centersent Stations 31, 20, Engine 8011, and Station 62(EMS) to Edgemont Drive in Salisbury Township fora dwelling fire. Chief 3101 arrived to a twostory, single-family dwelling with heavy smoke showing and a male on the roof refusing to come down. Chief 3101 requested two additional engines. Engine 3111 arrived and its crew deployed two handlines.
Crews encountered fire in the attic and the rest of the second alarmarrived. Crews knocked down the bulk of the fire within 30 minutes.
Atwo-alarm fire ripped through at least fourrow houses on the 4300 block of Salem Street in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. Getting apparatus down the narrow streets was a problem, so all companies were staging about a mile away in a parking lot, until needed. Fences were cut in alleyways to allow forlarge diameter hoses to be pulled through. The original fire building was vacant, but at least two others
were occupied, fire officials said.
On March 15, 2023, at 0146, Special Service 51 was dispatched to assist Norco Fire Company at a house fire on West Cedarville Road. The crew from 51 filled aircylinders and assisted with the fire operations. At 0234, Tanker51 was dispatched to assist with tankeroperations at the scene.
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
The Brookville VolunteerFire Company of Brookville assisted mutual aid on a structure fire in Sigel, recently.
Around 0100 on April 23, 2023, fire crews were called to a home on Clawson Avenue located in the Midway St. Clairsection of Hempfield Township. Firefighters from Midway were met with heavy flames from the Aside of the structure, despite theirstation being less than a quarter mile from the incident. Residents made it out of the home and were transported with burn injuries. Two of the family pets made it out safely, with a dog being lost. The house was determined to be a total loss.
On February 3, 2023, around 1845, Cumberland County crews responded to the Motel 6 on Cumberland Parkway fora mobile home fire. Chief 2-23 arrived and requested the second alarm. Chief Schumberger, Jr., assumed command. The first engine led off with big waterand the deck gun on a trailer-type structure that was well involved and already extending to the motel. Freezing temperatures in and wind gusts fanned the flames and command had to evacuate the structure and make an attempt to cut off the spread halfway down the building. The fire worked its way into the cockloft creating heavy fire conditions. Aerial operations from Trucks 23, 30 and 29, and Engine 2-37 flowed waterthat froze upon impact onto the three-story motel. Athird alarm assignment was requested formanpower. All occupants of the motel were safely evacuated and all displaced. Companies remained on the scene forat least three hours dousing hot spots and performing extensive overhaul. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
On February 26, 2023, Gratz Fire Company Chief 27 came upon a possible structure fire on North Crossroads Road in Lykens Township. On arrival he advised county of a single family, 1-1/2 story home on fire. Engine 27 pulled in the driveway to make a push on the fire out the front door. Several of the mutual aid companies began to arrive. Within a few short minutes the active fire was knocked down and crews began the extensive overhaul operations. Despite a rapid response and fast attack on the fire, the home was sadly destroyed. This would be the second working house fire in Lykens Township in days where both incidents were quickly brought undercontrol within minutes of crews’ arrival.
On February 11, 2023, Klingerstown crews were called to a reported brush fire along Line Mountain Road in UpperMahanoy Township, Northumberland County. Chief 65 confirmed the working fire spreading up the mountain and requested additional resources as the fire continued to grow in size. Aftera short time, additional units were then added. Crews were able to halt the fire before it reached an area of pine trees. Crews then worked forsome time cutting trees and mopping up hot spots. UTVs from Mahantongo and Fountain Springs operated in the woods as well as Brush 62, Sacramento 14-41 and 14-40. Units on scene were Klingerstown, Gratz, Hickory Corners, Mahantongo, Fountain Springs, Hegins, Sacramento and LowerMahanoy, DCNR and Life Team EMS.
On April 4, 2023, at 0431, Harrisburg Box 1-3 sent Wagon 3, Squad 8, Truck 2, Tower1, and Battalion Chief 8 (Zavrel) to North 3rd Street at the William Penn High School fora commercial structure fire. Responding companies were advised that police reported dark smoke from the first floorand a fire in the southeast part of the building. Truck 2 arrived to smoke showing and Wagon 3 laid in from a hydrant on Division nearReels Street. Chief 8 arrived as companies were making forced entry, and requested the first alarm bringing Wagon 4, Truck 32, Rescue 69, and Air13 to the scene. Atwo-inch line and a step gun were placed in service from Wagon 3. The fire was in a vacant, two-story, building, part of the formerWilliam Penn High School complex which has been the site of several previous fires. The fire was ruled arson and involved tires and rubbish in the lowerlevel.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and Langhorne-Middletown Fire Company were recently dispatched fora vehicle fire in the parking lot of an office complex on Township Line Road in LowerMakefield Township. Pictured is Yardley-Makefield FirefighterJason Sciortino extinguishing the engine compartment fire.
Alate night fire on March 15, 2023, completely destroyed a house in Sewickley Township. Crews were dispatched to the home on Orchard Drive, around 2300. The first units reported the house fully engulfed upon arrival. Along narrow driveway made apparatus placement difficult. The distance to the closest hydrantwas also problematic. Despite the house collapsing, no injuries were reported. The Red Cross was called to assist the residents of the home.
- Fire News photo by James Brooks
Firefighters from numerous counties battled a multi-alarm fire on Lehigh Drive in a commercial building. The building and property were origin ally owned by Ingersoll Rand. Once the company closed, the property was reused and houses many different businesses in one large building. Firefighters would spend several days on site putting out hot spots as the building was eventually demolished.
- Fire News photos by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
On March 13, 2023, at 1736, Units from the LancasterCity Fire and Rescue were dispatched to North Plum Street fora dwelling fire. Battalion 1 arrived to a three-story, middle-of-the-row dwelling, with heavy smoke showing from the third flooron side A. Command reported the structure was a condemned property. All city companies arrived as the bravo exposure became involved. The working fire dispatch brought in county mutual aid to the scene as well. Aftercompanies tried to safely make a stop from the inside, Battalion 1 evacuated all members and set up fordefensive opera-
tions. As conditions deteriorated and fire started to gain hold of the cockloft, a second alarm was struck. The fire building was part of a row of 10 homes, eight of which had been condemned in 2019. Two dwellings were occupied and residents were able to safely escap e. Several trench cuts were made in an effort to stop the spread of the fire. Athird alarm was requested formanpowerabout an hourinto the incident. The fire was placed undercontrol at 1938 and the fire displaced fouradults and two children.
- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
On April 5, 2023, a three-alarm-plus fire heavily damaged the historic Crittenden Hotel on Main Street in Coudersport. Firefighters re sponding on the first alarm were met with heavy smoke and fire on the third floorof the hotel. Fire Chief Bryan Phelps immediately requeste d a second alarm, and then a third due to the occupancy and the life safety issues. Nine residents of the hotel eitherself-evacuated orwere rescued by firefighters from the second and third floors of the building; five were transported to area hospitals. Apparatus and manpower came from over15 departments, including one from New York State Approximately 150 firefighters were on the scene forsix hours. In 1840, the “Coudersport Hotel” was erected at this location. In 1880, a fire destroyed that hotel. In 1891, the “Crowell House” was built and eventually became the Crittenden Hotel. Three otherbusinesses w ere also located on the first floor.
On February 11, 2023, at around 1720, Lehigh County Communications Centersent Station 25, Engines 811 and 5611, and Station 62(EMS) to PathfinderRoad fora dwelling fire. Deputy Chief 2502 requested an additional two engines and a truck. Tanker 121, Engine 8112, and Truck 8131 were dispatched. Deputy Chief 2502 arrived and reported a fully involved two-story single-family dwelling and subsequently struck the second alarm, bringing Berks County Engine 21, Truck 21, and Tanker21, Engines 311 and 8011, Cascade 3292, and Station 30(RIT). Crews pulled a 2-1/2 inch handline to the A/D corner, and 1.75-inch handline to the Charlie side, as well utilizing their deck gun. The bulk of the fire was knocked down within 30 minutes. Crews remained on scene fora couple of hours hitting hot spots.
Jeannette, and otherfirst alarm fire companies, were called to Agnew fora carfire within a garage. Flames spread quickly throughout the home. Alarge column of black smoke was venting from the house when firefighters first arrived. Some remodels to the home created difficult areas forfirefighters to access. Fire crews were able to get the flames undercontrol quickly, preventing the building from being completely destroyed.
The Limerick Fire Department was dispatched on March 24, 2023, at 1314 fora vehicle rescue at the intersection of WRidge Pike and Sunset Road. Rescue 51, Engine 51, Squad 51, Command 51, Chief 51, and Fire Police 51 responded. Ambulance crews from Freedom Valley Ambulance, Skippack EMS, and Plymouth Ambulance also
Philadelphia firefighters from Engine 64 responded to Levick and Bingham streets fora crash. When they arrived they found a four-carcrash caused by a drunk driver. They helped with patient treatment and clean up.
responded. Upon arrival, crews from Rescue 51 and Squad 51 began extricating trapped subjects. Engine 51 was assigned foran LZ at Waltz's Golf Farm Driving Range along Ridge Pike. The accident was underinvestigation by the Limerick Police Department.
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
Falls Township’s Bucks County Fire Company was dispatched to the 100 block of Pennsylvania Ave in March. Two people sustained injury when a Brinks truck rear-ended anothervehicle on the road. The fire company went in service and assisted with patient care and hazards. No one was trapped but one driverwas hurt seriously.
The Yardley-Makefield Fire Company was dispatched April 22, 2023, foran auto extrication at the intersection of Big Oak and Oxford Valley Roads.
In the late evening of March 1, 2023, a call came in forHalifax Fire Company 29 foran MVAon Route 147-North RiverRoad. Chief 29-3 was given the update of three vehicles involved. Engine 29-1 and Engine 29 arrived with EMS from Millersburg Ambulance and Life Team. PSPfound no injuries but a large debris field. Fire Polic e from Company 29 arrived on the south end of the incident at Tourist Park Road. Crews assisted with debris and fluid clean up as tow from Kellers Towing arrived to remove the vehicles.
Engine 28 arrived forpatient care and hazards at a serious, head on MVAin Bensalem. As Assistant 28 was coming to the scene, a driverwith no license and no insurance pulled from traffic, right in front of the emergency vehicle, causing an accident. There were no injuries to fire personnel.
The Pillow Fire Company responded to a call regarding a man severely injured while attempting to load a steerinto a trailer. Soon after, EMS from Area Services and Hegins Area Ambulance arrived. Alanding zone was established just to the south of the incident in a pasture. Afew minutes laterGeisingerLife Flight 5 arrived. EMS transported the patient a few hundred yards to the helicopterand he was loaded and flown out.
- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
On March 13, 2023, at 1729, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched fora single-vehicle MVAwith a reported vehicle fire. Engine 51, Traffic 51-2, Command 51, and Chief 51 responded. Deputy Chief 51 reported there was no fire. Crews assisted in directing traffic and clearing debris.
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
At 1534 on February 3, 2023, Perkiomen Township’s Engine 66, Tanker66 and Field 66 responded to an MVAwith injuries across the street from theirstation. Collegeville Fire Company Squad 34, Harleysville Area EMS and PAState Police also responded. Gravel Pike/Route 29 was closed temporarily between Trappe Road and Stephanie Lane while first responders worked the scene. Volunteers were in service forabout 50 minutes.
- Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
On January 24, 2023, crews were dispatched to Route 225 in Lower Mahanoy fora serious crash with entrapment. Crews from Pillow and Hickory Corners arrived to find a tractortrailerhad lost control and lost his entire load of OSB sheeting and came to rest on and off the roadway. The truck also sheared off a telephone pole leaving live wires down and an SUV severely damaged resting about 100 feet off the roadway neara small stream. Crews found the driverof the truck unharmed and out of the rig but the driverof the SUVstill trapped. Crews went to work removing the doorfrom the vehicle. As they began to extricate the driver, the engine compartment began to smoke and a small fire ignited which was rapidly extinguished. The driverwas transported to GeisingerMedical Centerin Danville. PP &L arrived and informed the line was no longercharged. Kellers Tow ing arrived as did Sunbury Motors.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
On March 17, 2023, Bradford City Fire and Police Departments were dispatched to a report of two dogs trapped in the high water of Tunungwant Creek. TowerOne, Chief Eric Taylor, Captain Mike Scrivo and two firefighters along with one police officerresponded.
Firefighters used a 24-foot extension ladderto access the creek below. The dogs were successfully rescued without injury and turned overto representatives of the McKean County SPCAand then returned to theirowner. - Submitted by Jay Bradish
The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund of Pennsylvania has a need for lightly used turnout gear, rescue tools, firefighting tools, and pump tools such as hoses and nozzles. Please contact Rich Millerat Richmiller@terryfund.org or570-650-2603.
- Submitted by Rich Miller
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
On March 10, 2023, at 1807, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched fora three-vehicle MVAon North Lewis Road, outside of the Route 422 westbound off-ramp. Rescue 51, Squad 51, Traffic 51-2, Command 51, and Chief 51 responded. Crews arrived and began clearing debris in the pouring rain while fire police closed the left travel lane and directed traffic.
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
On March 16, 2023, Fisherville 216, Reliance Hose 21 and Halifax 29 were called to Armstrong Valley Road and Mountain House Road for an MVAwith entrapment involving a tractor-trailerand a car. Shortly after, as crews worked to extricate the victims from the car, airmedical was also requested. Life Lion 3 arrived and landed west of the scene. Despite rapid response and extrication the incident turned fatal.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
On March 15, 2023, Reliance Hose Company 1 was dispatched to establish an LZ fora fall victim. Rescue 21, Engine 21 and Utility 21 responded. Following theirarrival, the LZ was established across the street in an open field. GeisingerLife Flight 1 arri ved and loaded the patient. - Fire News photo by Seth
EMS was dispatched to a fall victim on February 15, 2023. Upon theirarrival and evaluation of the patient it was quickly determined that GeisingerLife Flight 5 would be needed. Wiconisco Fire Company 23 was dispatched to establish the LZ and EMS arrived soon afterand removed the patient.
On March 7, 2023, Klingerstown Fire Company, Hegins Area Ambulance and Mahantongo Ambulance were called to Schwaben Creek Road fora medical-related call. EMS arrived and it was quickly determined that airmedical would be needed. While EMS cared forthe patient, Engine 65 left to establish an LZ forLVHN Medevac 7. Due to wind conditions, as the pilot began his final approach he aborted the landing and chose to land just south of the scene in a large open field.
APhiladelphia medic unit loads a patient into theirambulance afterhe was struck by a caron Robbins Avenue. The pedestrian suffered serious head injuries.
In Octoberand November2001, the city of Philadelphia was flooded with calls of suspicious substances, as people thought it could be anthrax. The city started Rapid Assessment Teams (RATs) that would be dispatched to hundreds of runs throughout the city in a single day. Nothing was everdetermined to be hazardous.
One of the deadliest arson fires in the history of Philadelphia happened when a 20-year-old man intentionally set two fires at an apartment complex on the 9600 block of Bustleton Avenue in May 1986. Nine people died and several others sustained injury trying to evacuate. The arsonists was given nine life sentences.
On March 2, 2023, Wiconisco Fire Company 23 was dispatched to establish an LZ requested by Life Team EMS as a result of a medical related call. With the LZ established, EMS arrived and Life Flight 1 arrived shortly after. Fire crew members assisted the flight crew with loading the patient onboard the helicopter
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
On March 30, 2023, at 0609, LowerPaxton Township Box 34-6 dispatched Company 34, Engines 32, 33 and 35, Truck 35, and Rescue 361 to Charlton Road fora structure fire. County advised everyone was out but two dogs were still inside. Chief 34-2 arrived to a single-story, ranch with fire on the Charlie side and assumed command. Engine 34 laid a line to which Engine 33 supplied. Two lines were stretched from Engine 34. Progress Engine 32 secured a secondary hydrant and crews stretched a line to assist with the fire attack. Command reported two propane tanks exposed in the rear. Companies had fire in the basement, first floor, and rearpatio and had the bulk of the fire knocked down in less than 10 minutes. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0649 hours.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
On February 13, 2023, Perkiomen Township Fire Company members recognized 53 years of service from volunteer Firefighter Loren Collins.
Loren has been a volunteer with Perkiomen Township Fire Company for 24 years; since September 1999. Loren started as a volunteer firefighter in 1970 with Harmonville Fire Company in Plymouth Township and served 22 years with the King of Prussia Volunteer Fire Company from 1977 through 1999. He also served for many years as Perkiomen Township Fire Company’s Financial Secretary. Our members and the
community thank Loren for his over 24 years of service to Perkiomen Township and 53 years of service as a volunteer firefighter in Pennsylvania.
Perkiomen Township Fire Chief Brian Debus presented Loren with his helmet and shield at the fire company’s monthly meeting. Lo ren will be moving out of the area to live in northcentral Pennsylvania.
- Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
Afaulty space heaterhas been blamed fora house fire on Kings Lane in Bensalem. One resident, an elderly male in a wheelchair, was rescued by firefighters. Heavy smoke greeted firefighters upon arrival and narrow streets made parking forapparatus and watersupply a premium, as companies had to stretch lines several blocks.
- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Hilltop, Lafayette Township, Bradford Township and Smethport were dispatched to a wildfire on Spring Street in Gifford at 1115 on April 12, 2023. Firefighters used handlines and hand tools to control and extinguish the fire that was spreading rapidly. Firefighters were on scene fortwo hours and 40 minutes. Approximately one acre burned. The region was undera Red Flag Warning at the time and the firewas due to careless burning.
- Fire News photo by Jay Bradish
On a frigid February 4, 2023, the Spring Mill Fire Company 1, along with members from Plymouth Fire and Harmonville Fire figured it was the prime time to enhance and sharpen theirskills focusing on ice rescue. The teams left at 0500 to travel over2-1/2
hours to a pond that would allow them to enhance theirskills, with guidance from ElderTechincal Rescue Services LLC instructors. The temperatures were in the single digits when they started the training.
- Submitted by Robert Walls
On March 27, 2023, the Limerick Fire Department participated in Monday night training that consisted of three practical stations: Impalement patient extrication, breaking locks with the K-12 saw, and timed forcible entry. The juniors trained on hoses and hydrants, learning how to open a hydrant and connect to the engine. Crews worked on a scenario of a subject impaled from a five-inch steel rebar. Split into groups of four, they practiced setting up a hoisting system utilizing a ground ladderto assist with the patient’s weight, cutting the section of rebarallowing forthe safe removal of the victim, and then proceeding with patient packaging
while not disturbing the impaled area. Crews also practiced using the K-12 saw to cut through locks. The last practical consisted of a timed forcible entry. Firefighters paired up and, as a team, were timed how quickly and effectively they could force open a door. In the end, the two teams who came the closest competed against each otherwhile wearing a pack, getting off the truck, grabbing tools, and forcing the doorall while being timed. Congratulations to firefighters Dylan and Gavin who won and received a Wawa gift card!
- Submitted by The Limerick FD
On February 18, 2023, the Limerick Fire Department hosted a community CPR class for28 people. Attendees were taught how to perform CPR on an adult and child, how to use the AED, and what
to do when a child oradult is choking. Thank you to Mike Tuski for teaching the class and all LFD members that assisted!
- Submitted by the Limerick FD
On April 2, 2023, 11 members of the Limerick Fire Department combined theirmonthly rope rescue and waterrescue training at Swamp Creek. The crew utilized equipment from Special Service 51, which accompanies the department on waterrescue calls. Jameson Wendell (Instructor/Operational Support) assisted the members in
the training review. The members combined theirrope rescue skills and advanced line training to review, construct, and utilize a movable control point fora boat. The system was assembled and established to have all personnel operating on the same side of the creek's shoreline. - Submitted by the Limerick FD
Yardley-Makefield Fire Company members along with the Margerum family took some time to remembera fallen brother. Rest in peace LODD past Fire Chief Nelson ‘Snooky’Margerum, who died March 15, 1992. Always remembered neverforgotten!
On May 2, 2023, the Allison Hook and Ladder Company 2 unveiled a portrait of former President, the late Barry Buskey, at the company meeting. Guests included the Buskey family who enjoyed a homecooked meal with the members before the ceremony.
President Buskey joined Allison in 1959 and went on to become a career firefighter in the City of Harrisburg. He was an active member of the IAFF in Pennsylvania, which included terms as State Preside nt. He was the President of Allison when he passed away in 2022. Over the years Barry was dubbed with the moniker ‘Commissioner’as a sign of respect from all who knew him.
In honor of his life of service to the company, the membership raised the funds to commission an oil painting to be displayed in the fire house to preserve Barry’s memory.
The artist was Scott Meier of Carlisle. He chose the medium of wood rather than canvas to capture the Commissioner’s likeness. Memb ers sorted through many photographs until they settled one with Barry wearing a suit and a fire helmet while making a presentation to City Council. Meier used the photograph as a model for his work.
“We thought the photo captured Barry’s leadership ability and above all, his extreme pride of being a fireman,” said Allison member Jason Lloyd one of Barry’s closest friends.
Following the ceremony, Barry’s wife Roberta who served as Allison’s First Lady during his presidency, was made an Honorary Allison Member.
Guests may view the portrait during a personal visit or during an open house.
- Submitted by Steve Austin
For those hesitant to volunteer because they have no experience, your local fire company will provide the proper gear and train you for free.
Prince Spells had been traveling outside the country as an artist and freelance photographer for 10 years before the Covid-19 pandemic brought him back to his hometown. Back in Elkins Park, Spells found his second home in January 2022 at LaMott Fire Company.
“When I got home, I felt like I wanted to connect more with the community, and volunteering gave me that opportunity,” said Spells
Another volunteer looking to give back is Dan Schaefer, a former police officer for more than 20 years and a recent volunteer at Perkiomen Township Fire Company. He graduated from the Montgomery County Fire Academy with his Firefighter I certificate in November 2022.
“The most satisfying aspect of firefighting is serving my local community. Two days ago, I responded to a house fire three houses down,” said Schaefer, “We genuinely are neighbors helping neighbors.”
For those hesitant to volunteer because they have no experience, your local fire company will provide the proper gear and train you for free. To enter a burning building and begin interior firefighting, volunteers must receive their Firefighter I certificate first.
“I now feel comfortable handling a life-ordeath situation. I learned a lot from the academy,” said Spells
Todd Krock, another 2022 graduate from the Montgomery County Fire Academy, had always wanted to be a firefighter and recently joined Ringing Hill Fire Company in Lower Pottsgrove.
“You don’t need to know anything to get started. There’s room for anybody in the service, and in the end, you’ll be a professional,” said Krock.
The skills firefighters learn at the academy will stay with them
throughout their lives. These unique and transferable skills are also beneficial in the workforce.
“Volunteering as a firefighter is a great addition to your resume. It makes you stand out and shows you are committed,” said Krock.
Volunteers can take any class at the academy that piques their interest. The academy offers fire police training, hazardous materials, structural collapse and more, paid for by their local Montgomery County Fire Company.
“The fire company provides access to specialized training such as Vehicle Rescue Training, so I can protect my family and my neighborhood better,” said Douglas Ross of the Spring Mill Fire Company.
Ross joined Spring Mill Fire Company in August 2022 and is preparing to take classes for his Firefighter I certification in 2023. Although he can’t help with interior firefighting yet, he has started exterior training by grabbing tools and equipment, dragging hoses and setting up ladders.
“Not only is volunteering a service to your community, but it’s a service to yourself,” said Ross.
For individuals looking for other ways to volunteer, Montgomery County’s 89 fire companies offer additional opportunities such as administrative members, junior firefighters, fire police and EMTs. Visit www.Montco Firefighters.org and fill out a volunteer inquiry form to change your life and save lives in 2023. The Montgomery County Fire Chiefs Association is actively seeking volunteers to help around the firehouse, respond to a variety of calls, or provide general assistance to first responders. Anew website has been created to connect Montgomery County residents with their closest fire companies by visiting www.Montcofirefighters.org.
- Photo courtesy of thereporteronline.com
For 30-plus years, Select Custom Apparatus has represented Wheeled Coach ambulances, one of the industry’s oldest and trusted manufacturers, well-known for their industry-leading safety features. With this acquisition, Atlantic Emergency Solutions stre ngthens their position as a leading ambulance provider for fire departments, EMS agencies and municipalities.
Atlantic is now the exclusive dealer for Wheeled Coach and Road Rescue ambulances in Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Atlantic also adds to its vast support network a full-service Collision Repair Center offering fabrication and body repair, a modern paint booth and a graphics center. The location will also provide much needed service support for the eastern part of the state, handling everything from minor to major repairs, warranty work, preventative maintenance and more. Together, both operations comprise the Greenville Service and Collision Repair Center and re flects Atlantic’s commitment to bringing comprehensive and convenient service to its growing customer base.
As a whole, Atlantic’s support network is comprised of four (4) Collision Repair Centers and 19 Service Centers, including thre e other North Carolina locations (Charlotte, Fayetteville and Greensboro.)
“The opportunity to grow our Atlantic family and expand our sales and service support for current and future customers is exciting,” said Joe Pack, President & CEO of Atlantic Emergency Solutions. “Our investment in personnel and infrastructure helps fuel our continued growth, but most importantly, better serve the
needs of departments throughout the region.”
Atlantic Emergency Solutions, 144 Freedom Blvd., Yorktown, VA 23692; Office: 757-234-7020; www.atlanticemergency.com.
The North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) will present Patient-Centered Extrication Training, taking place at Subaru Park, in Chester, PA, on May 24 to May 26, 2023. The training features a two-day workshop on skills and tactics as well as a Q&A with technical, medical, and command assessors. This will be followe d by a one-day mini rescue challenge. This will be the first time NAVRA training will take place in the Northeast, providing an opportunity for emergency responders up and down the East Coast to get involved in this impactful and fun event.
Subaru of America, Inc., ESI Equipment, Inc., Turtle Plastics and Fire News are proud to sponsor NAVRA’s Patient-Centered Extrication Training at Subaru Park. Extrication Teams involved in the training play a vital role in the operational objective and function as their agency’s liaison with the vast networking opportunities associated with these extrication challenges.
NAVRA’s experienced industry expert members work tirelessly to train all of our emergency responders with innovative techniques, advanced equipment, and authentic competitions — all of which are based on the NFPA1670 guidelines and exceed the State of Florida for Fire Service Instructors standards. Fortunately, we’re able to do this by integrating corporate support into public service and subsidizing training costs.
This is a free event for all. You can participate in the traini ng and competition or just be an observer. This training seminar is focused on the Team Challenge Concept, and is ideal for potential extricat ion teams and departments that are interested in forming teams to l earn new skills and techniques from leaders in the field. What is le arned can be brought back and shared with their departments to improve skills and decreases rescue times.
Teams will consist of six to eight people: a captain, medical t eam, and a technical team. All scenarios are run with live patients in the vehicles. The training will be three days, split as follows:
-Day 1: Educate participants on extrication options through multivehicle scenario using current model Subaru vehicles. An instructor and an assessor for each discipline will be with the team guidi ng and coaching. At the close of day one, the team will work a multivehicle scenario through completion.
-Day 2: Using learnings and scenarios from day one, teams will perform a live scenario without stops while the Instructor Team evaluates performance. The instructor team will hold a debrief with the team and cover important learning points in incident command, technical rescue and medical treatment.
-Day 3: The culmination of the event will be the Rescue Challenge. Each Team will perform a live scenario under Rescue Challenge conditions, without stops, while the instructor team evaluates performance. Multi-vehicle scenarios utilizing current model Subaru vehicles will provide top-level training that teams can bring back to their departments.
Day 3 spectators are welcome to watch the challenge activities and enjoy food trucks, music and other local attractions. To sign up for this event or to lean more visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navra-training-seminar-tickets568671591037.
NAVRAis a non-profit organization committed to preparing today’s rescuers for tomorrow.
For more information on North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) visit www.navraus.org.
Montgomery County firefighters and local apparatus marched in the Conshohocken St. Patrick’s Day Parade down Fayette Street on March 11, 2023. Frank Burton, a Plymouth firefighterand AOH member, was named Grand Marshal. The parade was organized by AOH Notre Dame Division 1 of Montgomery County.
- Fire News photos by Regina Jelski
Members of the Mechanicsburg American Legion and the Mechanicsburg Fire Department who were on hand forthe generatorpresentation were (left to right) Ken Gordon, Jim Blanton, Thad Cushman, Carl Campbell, (MFD paramedic Tristan Dunlap), RogerCordell, (MFD EMTKristin Koester), Mike Edwards, Assistant MFD Fire Chief Steve Castle, Jim Herron, Dave Merritt,and Randy Roach
The Mechanicsburg American Legion Post 238 recently purchased two portable Honda electric generators to donate to the Mechanicsburg Fire Department. The presentation of the generators took place on the evening of March 9, 2023, at the American Legion hall in Mechanicsburg. The generators will replace the e xisting antiquated generators that have been in service overthe past
several years and are in need of extensive repair. The Mechanicsburg Fire Department is very grateful to community-oriented organizations such as the American Legion that show overwhelming support to local public safety services.
- Fire News photo by Steve Castle
JenniferPolcino was brought in as a memberof the Bucks County Firefighter and EMS HonorGuard. She is a memberof the Newportville Fire Company. HonorGuard leaderDave Hathaway is giving herthe HonorGuard pin.
- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Spring Mill Fire Company No. 1, was recently awarded a $25,200 grant by the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, a 501(c)(3), nonprofit charity that provides lifesaving equipment, prevention education, scholarships and disaster relief for first responders and public safety organizations, as well as support for military veterans.
With this grant, Spring Mill is able to purchase new water rescue equipment for its public safety rescue dive unit. The awarded grant will protect the team from natural and potentially hazardous element s and allow them to streamline communications during underwater emerg encies in the Schuylkill River as well as in bodies of water in s urrounding communities.
“On behalf of the Spring Mill Fire Company and its members, I want to thank Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for the work they do to support organizations like ours,” said Wayne Masters, Jr., Chief of Spring Mill. “As we’re entering our 100th year in operation, we are so grateful to be awarded the necessary resources to continue to keep the community of Whitemarsh Township safe and protected.”
In the coming months, Spring Mill will upgrade its gear with the following: New Public Safety TLS Dry Suits by Diving Unlimited International (DUI); New Guardian Full Face Masks (FFM’s) by Ocean Technology Systems (OTS) with intercoms for divers and tenders to communicate with one another.
With the company’s close proximity to the Schuylkill River, thi s upgraded gear will prove extremely valuable as the Spring Mill Public Safety Dive Unit prepares for any number of water-based rescue scenarios ranging from disasters of the scale of Hurricane Ida to recreational mishaps on the water and more.
“Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is committed to doing our part in honoring the critical service provided by first responders,” said Robin Peters, Executive Director. “We’re proud to support Spring Mill Fire Company and help ensure they are equipped with the best gear possible to safely and effectively perform their job.”
- Submitted by Robert Walls
