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VOLUME 10, NO. 3
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JULY/AUGUST 2020
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 3
In this issue... Harrisburg Vacancy Fire Around 0742 hours, Tower Lieutenant 1 advised of a smoke column in the area of 17th and Walnut Streets. See story on page 6
Fatality at Munhall Borough Fire On May 27, 2020, firefighters responded to Ravine Street for a report of smoke and flames from a home. See story on page 9
Philadelphia Rowhouse Fire Philadelphia firefighters responded to a fire in a row house on Marsden Street near Torresdale Avenue. See story on page 12
Historic Church Destroyed in Chester Engine 82 was dispatched for a fire on East 9th Street at the historic former Third Presbyterian Church. See story on page 16
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 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
Pittsburgh 4-Alarm Commercial Fire On May 4, 2020, firefighters responded to a four-alarm fire in the commercial district in the City of Pittsburgh. See story on page 22
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Former Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Joseph R. Rizzo See story on page 33
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Page 4, Fire News, July/August 2020
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Pushing Forward As we continue to deal with Covid-19, my state —New York — has slowly entered Phase IV of a well-planned mitigation for containing the spread of Covid-19, while we try to regain the freedoms of the past. Yes, there are restrictions to follow if you want to have some sense of socialization similar to pre-pandemic days. Many low risk, outdoor arts and entertainment facilities can open at a 33-percent capacity. Colleges can open, and professional sports can resume without fans. Regardless of what you or I think, we must be diligent on following the guidelines intended to keep us safe. Keep in mind that preventing the re-occurrence of a significant increase of Covid is up to you. Despite what you think, follow the guidelines with the understanding that if Covid shows signs of poking its ugly head out again and as cases begin to rise, we will be back to Square 1. I am pleased to see that the first responders I have had contact with are following the department rules for preventing the spread of this disease. Kudos to all of the members who continue to respond, while keeping six feet away from one another whenever possible. I applaud the firehouses that have put up wall units at entrances that contain hand sanitizer, masks and gloves. It is refreshing to see that responders
have made the effort to continue to wear those masks and to use hand sanitizer immediately after calls and tasks such as signing in for calls. Keep up the good work. Let’s face it, good hygiene must be working because our members seem to be avoiding Covid. On a personal note, I would like to take the time to thank our EMS responders for your professional dedication and commitment to the people that you serve. I am sure many of you were not aware that in June, the Congressional Fire Service Institute (CFSI) took the opportunity during National EMS Week to honor the men and women serving in fire and emergency services departments across the nation who deliver pre-hospital emergency medical care. National EMS Week is a time to pause and to say “thank you” to our EMS responders, who, quite frankly, have not balked and continue to handle calls during these difficult times. I join CFSI and give thanks to each one of our EMS responders for your dedicated service. I also thank the CFSI for remaining committed to advocating for federal programs that address the needs and challenges of the fire and EMS services, especially during these tough times. In case you have not done so, take the time to visit CFSI.org to see what the organization is doing
for you, the first responder. Finally, remember that all of you serve your communities with professionalism and dedication to your department. Lately, I have been seeing posters and signs on fences and lawns, thanking YOU, the first responder, for your dedicated service. Keep up the good work. Hopefully, our network news organizations will do a piece honoring your service. For now, you have Fire News. Feel free to send us photos of your squad so that we may continue to honor you. Stay safe, Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, July/August 2020
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Cover Story
Garage/Vehicle/Structure Fire
On May 21, 2020, Stations 99 (Allegheny Township), 101 (Markle), 69 (Lower Burrell), 95-2 (Arnold), 56-5 (New Kensington), 115 (Upper Burrell), 53 (West Leechburg), and 220 (South Buffalo)
responded to Hummingbird Lane in Allegheny Township for a garage/vehicles/structure fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Harrisburg Vacancy Fire
Around 0742 hours, as A-Platoon companies were doing rig checks and starting the beginning of their shift, Tower Lieutenant 1 radioed County Communications that there was a smoke column in the area of 17th and Walnut Streets. Chief 6 (Bradford) requested an incident be started for a working fire and county reported they were getting calls for 17th and Elm Streets. Chief 6 made the two block response and arrived to a row of three-story, vacancies, with fire in the rear. A
line was quickly stretched from Wagon 4 to the first-floor rear. Chief 6 requested the first alarm a few minutes after arrival. An exposure was deemed unsafe to enter. A second line was stretched and assisted with the fire attack. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in five minutes with the fire being placed under control at 0758. The fire was contained primarily to the first-floor rear with slight extension to the second floor. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Page 8, Fire News, July/August 2020
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Minor Injuries at Butler City Blaze
Sawmill Machine Fire
Around 1330 on May 2, 2020, Butler County 911 received calls for a house fire with people jumping out of the second floor windows on Fairview Avenue in the City of Butler. City fire requested a general alarm which brought all off-duty shifts to the scene. Fire crews found a two-story, single-family dwelling with heavy fire throughoutand put two lines in operation. Before arrival of fire units a neighbor placed a ladder for the occupants that were on the second floor to escape. Minor injuries were reported to the residents. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
On May 9, 2020, a box alarm went out for a sawmill fire. First arriving units from Granville Township and Lewistown found a fire contained to a piece of machinery inside the building. - Fire News photo by Pat Shoop
Not a Bright Idea in Braddock
Truck Fire Stopped from Extending
Around 0030 on May 7, 2020, fire crews were dispatched to the 400 block of 4th Street in Braddock for a hallway fire inside a residence. Police were able to get the resident out as firefighters arrived. Firefighters quickly went to work but the fire made its way to the second floor and a second alarm was requested. Firefighters worked for over an hour before the fire was brought under control just after 0245. No one was injured, but three people were displaced. The cause of the fire was determined as a resident smoking while on oxygen. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
On April 24, 2020, crews responded for a vehicle fire in the 27-4 box. Chief 27-2 arrived to smoke from the C side of the structure and, upon rounding the A/D corner, found a fully involved tractor trailer with fire spreading towards the loading dock area of the building. As crews were battling flames, members reported one of the fuel tanks on the rig had burst. Thankfully crews were able to prevent the fire from spreading to a nearby large multi-level chicken house. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 9
Fatality at Munhall Borough Fire On May 27, 2020, just before 0100, firefighters were alerted to the 1200 block of Ravine Street in Munhall Borough for a report of smoke and flames from a home. Police attempted to make entry but were forced back due to smoke and heat. Chief 204 advised dispatch that there was assumed entrapment due to a car in the driveway. Lieutenant 204 advised a victim had been found and requested EMS to the C side. Soon after the victim was removed, the home flashed and crews were evacuated. The victim, an 87-year-old woman, was pronounced dead on arriva at the hospital. One firefighter was also transported. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was investigating the cause. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Bedroom Fire in Upper Macungie Township Firefighters from Upper Macungie Township were dispatched to Westminster Drive for a dwelling fire. Chief 56 arrived and reported smoke showing. Chief 2503 took command and Chief 56 went interior with a can and was able to keep the fire in check until companies arrived. Crews were able to make quick work of a bedroom fire but remained on scene for about an hour mopping up. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Page 10, Fire News, July/August 2020
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4 FFs Hurt, 10 Displaced by Etna Blaze
On May 9, 2020, around 1530, firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire along Wilson Street in Etna. Arriving firefighters found heavy fire in the rear of the home, extending into an exposure home and a second alarm was requested. Crews were able to knock the bulk of the fire down quickly, but had trouble with fire
running the walls of both homes. A third alarm was requested for additional manpower. Four firefighters were treated on-scene for various medical issues. No one else was injured. Six adults and four children were displaced. - Fire News photos by First Due Photography
Mayday at Lebanon Fire At 0934 on June 7, 2020, Box 15-06 sent Lebanon City companies to Mifflin Street for a structure fire. Engine 19 arrived to smoke showing from the third floor of a three-story, brick, twin dwelling. A line was stretched from Engine 19 to the third floor, while Ladder 18 laddered the roof. Commissioner 15 requested Rescue Engine 14 for RIT and put a second alarm on standby. The fire involved the walls and ceilings of the third floor and extended to an attached exposure. As conditions deteriorated, Commissioner 15 evacuated the building and set up for exterior operations. The second alarm was requested bringing county mutual aid companies to the scene (Engines 14 and 39, Ladder 9 and Rescue 42). Multiple handlines were placed in service and all visible fire was knocked down in about 30 minutes. A Mayday was called for a firefighter who fell through the floor but was quickly removed with no serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Multiple Structure Fires
On June 23, 2020, Stations 50 and 51 (Vandergrift); 101 (Markle); 99 (Allegheny Township); 102 (Washington Township); 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell); 200 (Parks Township); 53-1 and -2 (West Leechburg/Hyde Park); 49 (Oklahoma); 610 (Murrysville Medic One); 106, 108 and 110 Custer Avenue, Vandergrift; responded for multiple structures on fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Bath Fire Damages Several Homes Firefighters from Northampton and Lehigh counties battled a multiple-alarm dwelling fire that damaged several homes in Bath. Crews were dispatched to Old Forge Road just after 2300 and found heavy fire showing from the end of a row. Crews worked for several hours to get the fire under control. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 11
Restaurant a Total Loss in Monroeville Just after 1100 on May 16, 2020, Monroeville firefighters were dispatched to the 1100 Block of James Street for a commercial structure fire at the Overlook Lounge. Crews arrived to find heavy fire and smoke and worked feverishly for over three hours before the fire was finally brought under control just before 1400. Additional fire crews from Turtle Creek, Plum and Wilkins Township were brought in to assist. The owner of the lounge, a 90-plus-year-old woman, was inside cooking when the fire began. She made it out safely and sat in a yard watching her business of many years go up on flames. The fire was under investigation and no injuries were reported. The building was deemed a total loss. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Hot Day at Butler House Fire City of Butler Firefighters after battling a house fire on Fairview Ave in the City of Butler on May 2, 2020. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Page 12, Fire News, July/August 2020
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Early Morning Fire in Valley View Early on the morning of May 3, 2020 a call came in for a possible house fire on Broad Street in Valley View. Portable 22-4 confirmed a working fire. Hegins Valley Fire Rescue Chief 13 advised of a working basement fire in a vacant, two-story, single- family home. Hegins Valley Fire Rescue 13-10 stretched a line to the D side of the structure. Crews pulled two 1-3/4inch lines off of 13-10 to theDd side of the home where fire was rolling out a basement door and under a side roof. Sacramento Fire Engine 14-10 was advised to lay into 13-10, and pulled a line to the B side of the structure. Crews were able to knock down the active fire within 15 minutes after arrival. Additional companies assisted with overhaul. It was found the fire had compromised the d side division 1 floor. The remainder of the home sustained smoke damage with bulk of the fire damage in the basement and small area on the first floor. A great quick morning response and knock down by crews. A fire marshal was called to the scene to investigate - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Pleasant Twp. Deck Fire Extends At 0036 on May 21, 2020, fire crews from Westmoreland County were dispatched to the 1600 block of Kecksburg Road in Mt. Pleasant Township for a deck fire. Westmoreland County 911 then received additional calls reporting a house fire. Arriving fire units found heavy fire from the Charlie side of the large home. Issues with hydrant pressures in the area forced crews to evacuate the structure and tankers from Westmoreland, Somerset and Fayette counties were requested to the scene. Crews worked for over five hours trying to extinguish the fire. Two people were home at the time, and both managed to escaped without injuries. The homeowner said a fire pit located on the deck sparked the fire but the Pennsylvania State Police were investigating. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Philadelphia Rowhouse Fire
Chester 2-Alarmer
Philadelphia firefighters responded to a fire in a row house on Marsden Street near Torresdale Avenue. No injuries were reported and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
On May 11, 2020, Chester Car 3 responded to West 9th Street in the City of Chester for fire showing from the second floor of a dwelling and impinging on the exposure. A second alarm was struck and crews were able to hold the fire to the building of origin. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
Page 14, Fire News, July/August 2020
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North Versailles Kitchen Fire On May 25, 2020, around 1945, firefighters were dispatched to the 200 block of Foster Road in North Versailles for a kitchen fire. Police arrived first and confirmed a working fire. Firefighters arrived and made a quick attack on the fire, which was brought under control in about 20 minutes. Fire crews then remained on-scene for ventilation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
McKeesport Apartment Fire On May 23, 2020, just before midnight, McKeesport Fire crews were dispatched to the Hi View Garden Apartments in the City of McKeesport for a fire in a first-floor apartment. Crews arrived to find a working fire and a second alarm was requested. Crews were advised that several residents were unaccounted for, so crews were sent in to search the building and attack the fire. The bulk of the fire in the original apartment was quickly knocked down, but fire soon ran the walls and began running the roof. Once heavy fire was found in the roof, a third alarm was requested. Fire crews worked for several hours before the fire was finally brought under control around 0330. One resident was taken to the hospital with unknown injuries. The American Red Cross assisted those displaced and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 15
As if Fighting Fire Wasn’t Hard Enough On June 5, 2020, around 1100, Butler County 911 received a call for a house fire on Oneida Valley Road in Center Township. Shortly after dispatch Chief 14-3 requested a second alarm due to the time of the day. Chief 35 arrived on scene to fire in a two-story, single-family residence with a male in the residence refusing to leave. At this time, the man started to threaten and assault firefighters as they tried to remove him from the residence. At one point the man pulled a knife and also threw a rock and other items at one of the firefighters. Extensive overhaul was required due to fire hiding in the roof area. The second floor of the residence sustained heavy damage. The State Police Fire Marshal was called to the scene for an investigation. All units cleared the scene around 1430. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Double Fatal Fire in Duquesne At midnight on May 29, 2020, fire crews were dispatched to the 1100 block of Karl Avenue in Duquesne for a house fire with possible entrapment. Arriving units found heavy fire coming from both the front and rear of the home. Crews quickly attacked the fire in order to make entry to search. Crews found two victims, one on the second floor and one on the third; both were pronounced at the scene. Crews continued to fight the fire for over an hour before the fire was brought under control. The victims, a male and female, were 23-years old. No other injuries were reported. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Page 16, Fire News, July/August 2020
Hummelstown Porch Fire At 0351 on May 8, 2020, Box 46-2 toned for a reported porch fire on Walnut Street. Chief 46-2 advised of a caller reporting the front porch on fire and everyone was evacuating; he requested the first-alarm assignment. The remainder of Company 48 and Rescue 59 made up the working fire companies. A line was stretched from Truck 46 to knock down the fire on the porch of the two-story single-family, dwelling. An additional line was stretched an operated to chase fire that extended in the voids of the exterior siding. The bulk of fire was knocked down in 10 minutes and companies worked for another hour before taking up. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Historic Church Destroyed in Chester
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Lumber Fire in Clay Township Around 1600 on June 28, 2020, Butler County 911 received calls reporting a pile of lumber was on fire endangering a structure at Munich Lumber on Mahood Road in Clay Township. Butler County. Butler 911 dispatched Station 25 (West Sunbury), Station 14 (Unionville), Station 30 (North Washington) and Station 99 (Butler Ambulance Service). Chief 25 arrived and requested a second alarm. Stations 26 (Chicora). Station 35 (Oneida Valley), Station 31 (Marion Twp.), Station 13 (Prospect) and Station 29 (Bruin) responded. Units encountered a large Quonset hut-style building fully involved and a heavy fire load of lumber in the building along with piles of lumber on the outside. Crews went to work using 2-1/2 inch lines and eventually knocked down the fire. An excavator had to be brought in the access the Charlie side of the building due to a structural collapse. Crews remained on scene for an extended period of time working hot spots and dealing with high temperatures. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Upper St. Clair Fire
On May 28, 2020, at about 0230, Engine 82 was dispatched for a church fire in the 500 block of East 9th Street at the historic former Third Presbyterian Church. Engine 82 arrived to a large 200- x 200-foot structure with heavy fire showing in the rear. The attack was exterior from the beginning. The fire quickly spread throughout the church and required two additional alarms on top of two originally called. At the height of the fire, seven elevated master streams, and several truck-mounted and portable deluge guns were in service. The church which was built in the 1800s was no longer in use as a church and was vacant at the time of the fire. Crews were on scene well into the morning. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
On May 5, 2020, a residential fire was dispatched for a fire on Locust Lane in Upper St. Clair. First units on scene immediately called for backup as smoke was coming from the structure. No injuries were reported as the firefighters extinguished the blaze. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 17
Page 20, Fire News, July/August 2020
Electrical Issue in Butler
On May 22, 2020, Butler County 911 received a call for a house fire on Center Avenue in the City of Butler. Station 1 (Butler City), Station 3 (Butler Twp. Fire District), Station 38 (Veterans Affairs Fire Department), Station 99 (Butler Ambulance Service) and Butler City Police were dispatched for a smell of smoke in a structure. Upon arrival of city fire units they found a small electrical issue on the second floor of the residence. No fire extension was found. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
New Kensington Shed Fire
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Virginia Manor 2-Alarmer
Originally called in as a dumpster fire behind a strip mall in Mt. Lebanon on May 4, 2020, crews quickly escalated the incident to a second alarm after realizing the fire had compromised an external gas line, power lines and was possibly extending into the structure. Crews used their skills and know how to shut off the gas feed and quickly bring the fire under control. Firefighters checked the local businesses in the plaza to assure the fire had not spread. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Quick Stop in Harrisburg
On June 15, 2020, at 0331, Stations 56 1~5 (New Kensington), 95 1 & 2 (Arnold) 1045 Edgewood Road, New Kensington Shed fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Swissvale Borough House Fire
On June 24, 2020, Box 1-4 sent companies to Zarker Street in the Allison Hill neighborhood for a structure fire, reported to be smoke from the third floor. Squad 8, Wagon 4, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief Bastinelli (7) made up the initial box assignment. Chief 7 arrived to find a 2-1/2 story, ordinary, middleof-the-row, with heavy smoke showing from the top floor, and requested the first-alarm assignment. Wagon 3, Rescue 69, and Air 13 were dispatched. An attack line was stretched and members made a quick knock down of the fire as companies started to open up. The fire was contained to the top floor with no extension to the exposure. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Philadelphia All-Hands
Around 0015 on June 10, 2020, firefighters were dispatched to the 7600 block of Highland Avenue in Swissvale Borough for a reported house fire with possible entrapment. Crews arrived to find both occupants out of the home and heavy fire on the Charlie side of the home. Crews began to attack the fire while a second alarm was called in for additional manpower. The fire was placed under control at 0109. The occupants of the home were evaluated on-scene by EMS. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
On June 1, 2020, Philadelphia Engine 49 reported they had several trailers and a large pile of tires on fire at Richmond and Ontario Streets. Battalion 10 called an all-hands. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 21
It’sNewtoTHEM Sponsored by Command Apparatus
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2002 FERRARA 1750/50 CUSTOM PUMPER Command Fire delivered this fully equipped 2002 Ferrara 1750/750 custom pumper to the Franklin Township Fire Department in central Ohio. The unit previously served the Bristol Consolidated Fire Department in Bucks County PA. Sold by Command Apparatus
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2001 PIERCE QUANTUM PUMPER The Hauto Fire Company in Northeastern PA purchased this 2001 Pierce Quantum 2000 GPM pumper with a 1000 gallon tank and an around the pump foam system from Command Fire Apparatus to replace an aging vehicle.
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2006 KME 1500/100 PUMPER The South Cass Fire Company in Schuylkill County PA recently placed in service this 2006 KME 1500/1000 pumper that was reconditioned and delivered by Command Fire Apparatus. The unit previously served the McAdoo Fire Company in PA. Sold by Command Apparatus
To have your department’s apparatus featured here please call Barbara Connolly
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Page 22, Fire News, July/August 2020
Deliberately Set in Philadelphia
Philadelphia firefighters were busy with a one-alarm fire in the Frankford section of the city. Firefighters had a difficult time determining the exact address and location of the fire. The area has many alleys and garages that are set back off the road. As they found the fire, they had to stretch multiple lines which resulted in Orthodox Street being closed to traffic. The fire marshal determined the fire to be deliberately set. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Smoke Showing at Rite Aid
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Electrical Fire in Etna Borough
Just after 1630 on June 9, 2020, fire crews were dispatched to a reported electrical fire inside a dryer located on Grant Avenue in Etna Borough. Crews quickly arrived and found a small electrical fire with a smoke condition inside the basement. The fire was quickly contained, the home vented and all units were cleared in about 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Rekindles in Eddystone
At 2000 on May 31, 2020, West Philly companies were sent to Box 5122, 63rd and Race Streets, for a reportedfire at a Rite Aid. Battalion 7 arrived to light smoke showing. Several lines were used as all hands were placed in service with companies using the heaviest water lines. Units operating on the scene were Engines 12-41, 68, and 57, Task Force West, Squad 47, Ladders 13 and 4, and Rescue 1. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Quick Stop at Nursery Fire
On May 2, 2020, Eddystone crews arrived to find fire showing from a 75- x 150-foot U-shaped two-story building on East 2nd Street. The fire advanced to the second floor and roof area. The crews switched to defensive operations and had a prolonged fight. Crews returned several times for rekindles until the building was demolished. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
Pittsburgh 4-Alarm Commercial Fire Firefighters from Lower Nazareth, Nazareth and Upper Nazareth responded to a structure fire at the Blue Barn Nursery on Hollo Road on May 12, 2020. Crews arrived to find a well involved greenhouse. Two lines were stretched and put in operation for a quick knockdown. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
On May 4, 2020, firefighters responded to a four-alarm fire on Penn Avenue in the commercial district in the City of Pittsburgh. The stubborn fire was finally brought under control. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Page 24, Fire News, July/August 2020
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5 Displaced by Wilkinsburg Fire On May 7, 2020, at 0224, Pittsburgh fire crews were dispatched to the 1700 block of Laketon Road in the Borough of Wilkinsburg for a house fire. Arriving units found a working fire in a vacant structure and quickly began to attack. A short time later, fire had extended into exposures on either side of the original home and a second alarm was requested. Crews continued to battle as the fire was upgraded to three alarms before finally being brought under control just before 0330. One person was transported to the hospital with an unknown injury. Two adults and three children from one of the exposure homes were displaced. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by First Due Photography
Mountain Fire in Carsonville Fire crews responded for a controlled burn that had spread up the foot of the mountain on May 14, 2020. Access to the fire was via a long dirt lane, while other crews responded to a nearby farm and then Carsonville Road. Multiple units also came from Halifax, Fisherville, Elizabethville, Millersburg, Dauphin, Duncannon, Linglestown, Wiconisco, Berrysburg and Lykens; EMS from Williamstown brought their rehab trailer for crews. Fire Police assisted with traffic control and Lower Swatara Fire Department Tanker 59 and Swatara Rescue 91 Covered Station 29. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Riots, Arson, Looting in Philadelphia Riots brought about by the death of George Floyd came through Philadelphia on May 30, 2020. Arsonists set fire to a building on Walnut Street that went to three alarms. Apartments were involved and multiple people were displaced. While the fire was burning, people smashed windows and looted stores. For three nights mobs looted stores, set fires and caused mayhem. Philadelphia was under a city-wide curfew during that time. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Philadelphia All-Hands Philadelphia firefighters responded the 6100 block of Woodland Avenue on June 1, 2020. Companies arrived to heavy smoke showing from a two- story 100- x 300-foot strip mall. Battalion 7 used all hands plus 1-and-1 above the box. - Fire News photo by Frank Wenoski
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 25
Air Methods EMS Medevac Air Methods EMS Medevac leaving Chambersburg Hospital. - Fire News photo by Shane Shifflett
MVA with Entrapment On May 30, 2020, Stations 69 (Lower Burrell), 56 - 4 and 5 (New Kensington), LifeFlight 4 3460 responded to Garver’s Ferry Road in Lower Burrell for a single-vehicle MVA with entrapment. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Page 26, Fire News, July/August 2020
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Lower Burrell MVA
Car vs. Motorcycle
At 2204 on May 23, 2020, Stations 54 and 69 (Lower Burrell), 56-2 (New Kensington) responded to a two-vehicle MVA on Logan’s Ferry Road in Lower Burrell. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
The Yardley-Makefield Fire Company, Newtown Ambulance Squad 145, and St. Mary Emergency Medical Services 172 were dispatched to a motorcycle versus automobile accident at the intersection of Mt. Eyre and Taylorsville Roads. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
Car vs. Motorcycle in Bensalem
Single Car into Pole in Berrysbur
Bensalem firefighters and police responded to a car-versus-motorcycle MVA at the intersection of Hulmeville and Park Avenues in June 2020. The injured motorcyclist was transported, but the driver and occupants of the car did not require medical treatment. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
On June 3, 2020, Companies 26 Berrysburg, Community Fire Company and Reliance Hose Fire Company 21 were dispatched to an MVC on Route 25. Engine 26, Rescue 21 and Attack 26 responded to the scene. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Medevac for Burn Victim
Kayakers Rescued on the Delaware
Company 29 responded for burn victim due to a gas grill incident. Utility 29 responded to accompany Ambulance 13-2 and Medic 66. It was decided the patient needed to be flown due to his injuries. Life Lion, already on standby, was put in the air and an LZ was established by the crew already at Station 29. Medic 6-6 arrived followed by Ambulance 13-2 and Utility 29. Life Lion landed, and the flight crew of three prepped the patient and transported him. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and West Trenton Fire Company (NJ) were dispatched for a marine rescue on the Delaware River. Both fire companies launched their marine units at the Yardley Access Area. Three male kayakers were rescued from the Delaware. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
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Training
Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 27
Training: Marine Drill Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company recently participated in a marine drill with Marine 0 and Marine 01 on the Delaware River. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
Oklahoma Borough Vehicle Fire Training On June 30, 2020, Stations 49 (Oklahoma), 200 (Parks Township), 99 (Allegheny Township), 115 (Upper Burrell) Station 49, Oklahoma Borough held vehicle fire training. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Page 28, Fire News, July/August 2020
Emmaus Apparatus
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Rosenbauer 110-foot Tower Ladder of the Emmaus Fire Department.
2002 Central States Rescue of the Emmaus Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Steve Lenz
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 29
New Rig for Rural Ridge 175 Congrats to Station 175, Rural Ridge in Allegheny County, on their new Sutphen Rescue Engine. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Taking Care of the Less Fortunate People from Lower Burrell and the surrounding communities descended upon our Lower Burrell Station 69 on May 23, 2020, to donate clothes, food, household items, gift cards, and so much more to provide for the impacted residents of the Cedar Crest Apartment Fire. This is another example of the great people that live in our area who come together to help those in need. There is so much that U-Haul donated a large truck to help transport and store the items. Thank you to all who donated, to those who volunteered to help receive/sort the donations, to U-Haul for the use of the truck, and to our city officials who helped spread the word. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Page 30, Fire News, July/August 2020
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IAMRESPONDING ACQUIRES AND INTEGRATES TWOTONEDETECT
Audio dispatch notifications are now available within IaR, at no additional cost IamResponding.com has acquired TwoToneDetect and integrated an enhanced TwoToneDetect version into its all-inclusive suite of time-saving, online tools for emergency responders. TwoToneDetect captures emergency dispatch audio and transmits it through the IamResponding system to emergency responders so that they can hear their actual audio dispatches right through their mobile devices, from any location. “One of IamResponding’s core features provides dispatch notifications to emergency responders’ mobile devices via multiple and redundant pathways, including app push notification, text message and email to an unlimited number of member devices.” explained IamResponding President Daniel Seidberg, adding that “We are excited to bring this industry-leading tone and audio capture software into our existing suite of emergency notification tools.” The integration of actual audio dispatches in IamResponding supplements IamResponding’s emergency notifications for those agencies that desire additional redundancy of their dispatch notifications, who may prefer to hear the actual emergency audio
transmission, or who may not be able to equip all of their members with pagers or radios. This also provides a highly reliable solution for agencies that are dispatched by dispatch centers that do not have a CAD system, as this does not require any involvement by the dispatch center. “It has been a pleasure to work with the IamResponding team to integrate an enhanced version of TwoToneDirect into their existing suite of communication tools,” said Andy Knitt, the original developer of TwoToneDetect, explaining that “This integration allows for a much more robust delivery of emergency audio alerts to emergency responders, directly through the highly reliable IamResponding system.” According to Mr. Knitt, “Integrating TwoToneDetect into IamResponding was a logical evolution for the improvement of the delivery of audio dispatch notifications, as I already had great familiarity with IamResponding as a user of that system, and I already understood both the reliability of IamResponding and its value to emergency response entities.” Mr. Knitt further advised that “I highly encourage all TwoToneDetect
users to consider migrating their notifications to IamResponding because the audio delivery reliability, integrated phone app functionality, and support of TwoToneDetect within IamResponding far exceeds what has been available to this point.” In keeping with its longstanding practice of continually enhancing the features and tools it makes available to its users, Mr. Seidberg advised that “IamResponding will be providing the fully integrated TwoToneDetect functionality to its users at no additional cost, and plans a gradual rollout of the new functionality to its user base over the next couple of months.” Visit www.IamResponding.com to learn more.
SYNTEX INDUSTRIES DONATES MASKS Syntex Industries is a manufacture of water tanks, hosebed covers and crosslay covers. Since late March, Syntex has been manufacturing masks and donating them to hospitals and care centers. There was a supply shortage of masks because of the Covid-19 pandemic, and Syntex Industries decided to help out and began manufacturing
masks. They followed state specifications on how a mask is to be made. So far over 1,000 masks have been donated. Syntex plans on manufacturing more and have a stock supply in case there is a second round of Covid-19 in the fall. Syntex is glad they could help protect the public.
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 31
Thanks to the Hospital Workers
Firefighters and emergency responders staged at a school parking Covid-19 outbreak. The parade included apparatus from lot, ready to go to Lower Bucks Hospital in Bristol Township for a Middletown, Bensalem and others, as well as fire police in their drive-by thank you to emergency workers who worked during the POVs. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Page 32, Fire News, July/August 2020
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A Graduation Ceremony Nonetheless
Firefighters from Monroeville and Pitcairn came out to support the Gateway Senior High School’s Class of 2020 on May 27, 2020. The social distancing event took place in the Macy’s parking lot of Monroeville Mall where seniors sat apart with masks on waiting to hear their names called. Parents were able to watch the ceremony on a large screen set up in front of the Macy’s entrance where they were permitted to sit in their cars. - Fire News photos by First Due Photography
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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 33
Obituary
Former Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Joseph R. Rizzo
Commissioner Joseph R. Rizzo with radio in his hand at a fivealarm fire in September 1972. Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo with his brother, Fire Commissioner Joseph R. Rizzo, when they found out four firefighters were killed at a four-alarm fire in a restaurant. Joseph R. Rizzo, 95, a former Philadelphia fire commissioner and a brother of former Police Commissioner and Mayor Frank L. Rizzo, died Monday, June 8, 2020, at his daughter Pat’s home in Schwenksville. Mr. Rizzo had been staying with his daughter since last November. Mr. Rizzo, who raised his family in Mount Airy before retiring to Avalon, NJ, worked in the Fire Department for 25 years before being promoted to commissioner when his brother was elected mayor in 1972. He served as commissioner for 12 years before resigning in 1984. For many years while he was a firefighter, Mr. Rizzo held a second job driving a truck for The Inquirer. He served in the Navy during World War II. - Fire News photos by Bob Bartosz
Fire Commissioner Joseph R. Rizzo talking to a Philadelphia firefighter who was injured at a four-alarm hotel fire in August 1972.
Page 34, Fire News, July/August 2020
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Up Close & Personal
Captain Enscoe of the Veterans Affairs Fire Department in Butler, exiting a house fire on May 2, 2020. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Firefighter Dave Wells and son, Firefighter Andrew Wells, operating the Blitzfire during a hose line advancement drill hosted at the Woodside Fire House Station 80. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
East Allen Township Assistant Chief Ray Henry takes a break during a multiple alarm dwelling fire in Bath on May 3, 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Allen Township Firefighter Mike Jamicky prepares to take up following a multiple alarm dwelling fire in Northampton on May 14, 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Walnutport Firefighter Ryan Schmoyer carries SCBA cylinders to the air truck during a multiple alarm dwelling fire in Northampton on May 24, 2020. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Members of the Matamoras Volunteer Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez