Story on page 6.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
In this issue...
Late Night Fire in Lewiston
The Lewistown Fire Department was alerted for an apartment building fire on May 8, 2024.
See story on page 4
Chenango Drive 3-Alarm House Fire
Firefighters from Northampton and Lehigh counties battled a three-alarm dwelling fire in East Allen Township.
See story on page 8
Dog Dies in Regina Avenue Fire
In late May, firefighters responded to a quick moving house fire on Regina Avenue.
See story on page 10
Working Fire in Hegins Township
On May 9, 2024, Schuylkill County 911 called crews for a house fire on West Maple Street in Hegins Township.
See story on page 16
Kayak Rescue on Perkiomen Creek
Perkiomen Township’s Engine 66 was dispatched for a report of a technical rescue on the Perkiomen Creek.
See story on page 19
Obituary
Hegins Valley’s Brian Musolino
See story on page 26
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Late Night Fire in Lewistown
Fire Destroys Bucks County Home Dating Back to 1700s
ASpringfield Township home in Bucks County, which dated back to the 1700s and was one of the oldest in the area, was completely destroyed by fire. The family had kept it up to date with all the new appliances and even added an extension. Thankfully, none of the family members were at home when the fire broke out.
- Fire News photo by Jayson L. Wagner
The Lewistown Fire Department was alerted foran apartment building fire on May 8, 2024. Quick work gave this working fire a knock in short order.
- Fire News photo by Pat Shoop
Occupant Jumps to Escape Steelton Fire
On May 11, 2024, Steelton Box 501 sent Company 50, Engines 55, 71, 91 and 88, Trucks 32 and 34, Rescues 40 and 59, and Air13 to the area of 2nd Street and Pine Street fora house fire with jumpers reported. Tower1 and Wagon 4 were operating at a dump truck fire and were released by Captain 3 to respond on the box. Multiple calls were being received with people possibly on the roof, prompting Chief Brubacherto request the first-alarm assignment. First arriving companies had heavy fire showing from the second and third floors of a three-story, multi-family dwelling. One occupant had already jumped from the second floorand there were reports of people still inside. Engine 91-2 secured a hydrant and attack lines were stretched and advanced into the fire building. Primary and secondary searches in both the fire building and exposure were negative. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 20 minutes with crews performing extensive overhaul to open up and extinguish hot spots. Two occupants and two firefighters were injured in the fire.
- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Philadelphia Engine 62 and Ladder34 worked as a safety company aftera two-vehicle MVAon Roosevelt Boulevard and Red Lion Road. Two people were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Companies also went in service forhazard control.
- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
McKeesport 2-Alarmer
Crews from the City of McKeesport worked on a two-alarm residential fire in the 500 block of Olive Street recently. Units arrived to heavy smoke in the area and fire coming from the roof. Assisting on scene were Citizens Hose 161 from Glassport, Vigilant Hose Co 237, Liberty Borough 183, White Oak 1 299, Munhall 4 203, and IAFFLocal 1038 from the Allegheny County Airport along with McKeesport Ambulance Rescue Service 620 and the City of McKeesport Police. The Allegheny County Fire Marshals office was investigating.
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Lewistown Boro Garage Fire
At 0537 on April 26, 2024, Mifflin County 911 dispatched Heritage Fire, City Hook and Ladder, Junction Fire, Fame EMS and local fire police to Valley Street in Lewistown fora report of a garage fire. Upon arrival of Lewistown District Chief Pat Shoop, Jr., he advised he had fire on the exteriorof a garage to the rearof the residence. Truck 15 (Junction) stretched a 1-¾ inch attack line to the rear, making quick work of the visible fire on the ground level of the garage. Fire was then found in the roof of the garage but was quickly extinguished. Rescue 14 (City) arrived and supplied Truck 15 with waterand additional manpowerforoverhaul.
- Fire News photo by Samuel Baumgardner
Fire News photo by Nicholas Kurta
ButlerCity 2-Alarmer
On April 18 2024 around 2120, ButlerCounty 911 Dispatched Station 1 (Butler Bureau of Fire), Station 3 (ButlerTwp. Fire District), Station 38 (Veterans Affairs FD), Station 99 (ButlerAmbulance), Chief 1 (ButlerBureau of Fire) and City of ButlerPolice to the 100 block of South Cliff Street in the City of Butler. Butler Bureau of Fire units arrived to a working fire on the second flood of an apartment complex. Command requested a second alarm at 2126, recalling all off-duty ButlerBureau of Fire personal. Crews made an interiorattack on the second floorand contained the fire to the area of origin. Crews knocked down the fire and started overhaul operations. No injuries were reported.
- Fire News photo by Artie
Chenango Drive
3-Alarm House Fire
Firefighters from Northampton and Lehigh Counties battled a three-alarm dwelling fire on Chenango Drive in East Allen Township on June 10, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Osniak
Dog Dies in Regina Avenue Fire
In late May, firefighters responded to a quick moving house fire on Regina Avenue. No one was hurt in the fire that saw companies from Bensalem, Bristol and Penndel respond. The fire originated on the first floorand extended. Afamily dog did not survive the fire; the house was declared a total loss.
1 Fatality, Many Rescued from Minersville Blaze
At around 1245 on April 14, 2024, the Schuylkill County Communications Centersent crews to the 600 block of North 2nd Street in Minersville fora reported house fire. Multiple callers were reporting multiple houses already on fire with people possibly trapped. Crews arrived to find heavy fire from three houses and multiple people trapped on roofs. First arriving units started rescuing people from the roof, with the help of some citizens. Crews also began fire attack, but the heavy winds pushed the fire down the row of houses. Crews were evacuated from the buildings and a defensive operation was started. The fire was brought under control in about two hours, but crews remained on scene well into the evening hours hitting hot spots. Multiple people were sent to the hospital, howeverone man that was rescued from the roof succumbed to his injuries two-weeks later. - Fire News photo by Geoffrey Wetherhold
- Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
Enola Duplex Fire
On April 20, 2024, at 1809, in East Pennsboro Township, Engine Companies 20, 17, 13, 30 and 6, Trucks 17 and 2, Rescue 69 and Air13 were sent to Howard Street at the Tavern on the Hill restaurant fora fire. Chief 20 (Matter) advised of heavy smoke from the rearof the building with fire on the second floorof a 2-1/2 story, occupied, wood frame dwelling next to the restaurant. Squad 20 laid a line to the rearwhere two lines were stretched and operated. Harrisburg Squad 8 was dispatched forRITafterRescue 69 was put to work. The fire was knocked down in about 10 minutes and contained to the second-floorrearand part of the eaves.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Bedroom Fire in Elizabethville
On April 23, 2024, crews were called to the area of North Street in Elizabethville fora reported structure fire. Several crews were already operating at another structure fire between Elizabethville and Millersburg. Soon after, Assistant Chief Keisling arrived and confirmed a working bedroom fire on the A/D cornerof a single-family single-story brick ranch. Pillow Fire Company Tanker28, which was en route to the first incident, diverted and arrived to provide water forthe fire attack. Crews from additional companies began to arrive and went to work with fire attack as well as ventilation. Liberty Hose Company 2 Truck 22 arrived and setup on the A/D cornerand stretched theirbucket to the roof to vent. As this and othertasks were being carried out, a memberof Reliance Hose Company (Elizabethville) and EMTs gave oxygen to one of two pet cats that were safely removed from the home. Amemberof Life Team EMS provided care to a dog that was also rescued. Crews were able to make a quick knock down of the fire.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Heavy Fire on Arrival in UpperSaucon
Grill Fire Ignites Home in Royalton
On May 18, 2024, at 2122, Royalton Box 88-4 dispatched Company 88, Engines 54, 71, 59, 74 and 1 (RIT), and Truck 46 to WaterStreet in the Borough of Royalton fora residential structure fire. Chief 88-2 arrived to a fire on the porch, possibly from a grill, at the 1-1/2 story, single-family dwelling and requested the first alarm. A300-foot attack line was stretched from Engine 88 knocking down the bulk of fire in about 10 minutes.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Recently, Lehigh County, 901 received calls foran outside fire in UpperSaucon. Police arrived to find a structure on fire in the 4500 block of East Valley Road. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire showing from a large barn, prompting a second alarm.
- Fire News photo by Jayson l. Wagner
Fire Destroys Large Garage and Contents in UpperMahantongo Twp.
On June 12, 2024, at 1844, a call was received fora reported barn fire on Ridge Road in UpperMahantongo Township. County advised Chief 10 of a callersaying that a barn was on fire with flames shooting out the roof. Chief 10-01 arrived and advised of an approximately 20- x 30-foot three-bay garage fully involved. Soon after, Engine 10-10 arrived followed by additional units from Klingerstown, Sacramento, Hegins and Gratz. Crews went to work stretching multiple lines to all sides of the structure. As the fire raged on, additional smallerstructures to the rearalso became involved. As more units arrived, they staged theirapparatus on Ridge Road and sent manpowerforward to assist in fire suppression. At this same time tankers began arriving and dropping theirloads in the porta-pond setup at the end of the drive to the residence. Several companies from Schuylkill, Northumberland and Dauphin counties operated on scene forseveral hours. Despite rapid response by crews the building was destroyed along with all its contents.
Scrap Pile Fire in Bradford City
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
On June 8, 2024, at 0529, the Bradford City Fire Department was dispatched to a reported scrap pile on fire at Metalico Corporation. Engine 1 and Tower1 responded to the scene and used a masterstream from a deck gun on Engine 1 and an aerial masterstream from Tower1. With the assistance of Metalico employees using a crane, the deep-seated fire was extinguished in 90 minutes. An off-duty shift was called in to coveradditional calls in the city.
- Fire News photo by Jay Bradish
House Destroyed on CenterStreet House Destroyed on CenterStreet
Firefighters from Slatington, Walnutport and Washington Township were dispatched to a reported dwelling fire on CenterStreet in the borough. The Lehigh County 911 Centeradvised one call reporting flames from the windows. Upon arrival of the chief, a second alarm was struck fora fully involved dwelling. About 30 minutes afterthe original dispatch, a portion of the dwelling collapsed into a side alley. Crew battled the fire foroveran hourbefore gaining control but remained on the scene all day mopping up and hitting hot spots. The dwelling was a total loss and was demolished.
- Fire News photos by Dennis Wetherhold
Jr.
On May 1, 2024, at 0115, Company 34, Engines 33, 35 and 32, Truck 35, Rescue 36-1, Rescue 46 (RIT) were sent to Deaven Road fora reported house fire. Paxtonia Engine 34 advised of a sauna on fire to the rearwith smoke filling up the inside of the home. Engine 36 was added formanpower. Chief 34-2 arrived to a 2-1/2 story, Type 5, singlefamily, dwelling with fire showing from sides Aand B and established command. All occupants were reported out of the house. Engine 34 arrived and stretched two lines. Command’s size-up indicated three stories in the rear, fire on the bravo side primarily but working its way up the side of the house. The first alarm was requested at 0123 bringing Engines 47, 91-5, Truck 33, Rescue 35, and Air35 to the scene. Three lines were stretched and truck companies opened up. Fire extended from the garage to a portion of the attic. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0204.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Garage Fire with Extension in LowerPaxton Berks County 2-Alarmer
At 1538 on April 21, 2024, the Berks County Communications Center sent crews to Route 737 in Albany Township fora structure fire. Deputy 44 notified county that fire was a well involved structure and house blaze, and asked that a second alarm be struck. Lehigh Engine Tanker 51 and Engine 51 positioned on the B side of the structure and pulled multiple lines. Crews began an interiorattack on the D side. Two 28-foot trailers at the rearof the structure were also involved and crews began opening them up. Ladder33 positioned at the B/C cornerand used its masterstream. The fire was brought undercontrol in about two hours and crews remained on scene into the night hitting hot spots. The structure was the workshop of Middle Earth Studios which provided puppets and costumes to amusement parks. One of the houses on the property caught on fire as well.
- Fire News photo by Geoffrey Wetherhold
Forest Fire in Whitemarsh Twp.
1 Injured in Rte. 663 MVA
Recently, Bucks County 911 received multiple calls about a car fire in the area of Route 663 and PortzerRoad. Crews arrived to find one vehicle well-involved. EMS was requested foran injury resulting from a crash, but the severity of the injury was unknown. Route 663 was closed fora short period of time.
- Fire News photo by Jayson L. Wagner
On April 25, 2024, numerous resources were called to a forest fire in Whitemarsh Township aftera helicopter spotted a fire off of Sunnybrook Golf Course. Barren Hill led the attack to reduce the spread, isolate the fire and attack the source. Afterseveral hours stretching into the early morning, fire crews were able to declare the fire undercontrol. Mutual aid came from, Spring Mill, Harmonville, Conshohocken 2, Wissahickon and several otherfire companies.
- Fire News photo by Rob Walls
Bedroom Fire in Maple Hill
At 1159 on June 13, 2024, Perkiomen Township’s Tanker66, Pipeline 66, Air66 and an all-volunteercrew responded to a report of a building fire in the 200-block of Lexington Road in the Maple Hill community. The fire was in the bedroom.
- Fire News photo by Ted
Hodgins
Long Fight at Allentown
3-Alarmer
Firefighters from the City of Allentown were dispatched to North 7th Street fora reported dwelling fire. Crews battled a third-alarm fire forseveral hours before bringing it undercontrol. Seven hours latercrews were still on scene hitting hot spots.
- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
FFs SufferHeat Exhaustion, 25 Civilians Displaced
On June 20, 2024, at 1258, Highspire Box 55-2 sent crews to Willow Street at the Willow Gardens Apartments fora structure fire. Rescue 91 had a crew available and added themselves to the assignment. Engine 71, from Harrisburg International Airport, also responded. The duty officerrequested the first alarm, putting Truck 32, Rescue 69, and Air30 on the street. Engine 55 arrived to a two-story, garden apartment with heavy fire and smoke from the C side. Command 55 reported a middle unit with heavy fire, running the loft, and requested a second alarm. An occupant was removed priorto arrival of the fire department and an awning collapse fell on a firefighterwho suffered no injuries. Crews were able to knock down the bulk of the fire in about 10 minutes while truck companies opened up. The fire was placed undercontrol in about 45 minutes and several firefighters were treated forheat exhaustion. Fourteen units were affected eitherby the fire and/orsmoke and waterdamage and displaced 25 residents.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Working Fire in LowerPaxton
On June 17, 2024, at 0226, Company 35 and Engine 33 were dispatched to Brookes Lane fora residential fire alarm. Police advised of a fully involved structure, at which time the box was upgraded. Engine 35 arrived to a single-family home, fully involved and the crew stretched a 2-1/2 inch line to the rear. All occupants were reported to be out, but two dogs were still inside. Crews reported the bulk of the fire in the rearon all three floors and into the attic. While the 2-1/2 inch line knocked down the bulk of the fire, companies stretched handlines to the interior. Companies were able to remove several dogs from the garage area. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0300. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Working Fire in Hegins Twp.
On May 9, 2024, at 0904 Schuylkill County 911 called crews fora house fire on West Maple Street in Hegins Township. Units arrived to fire showing from Division 1 with a report of a dog possibly inside. Thick smoke began to push from the attic vents and eaves of the 2-1/2 story wood frame duplex-style home. As the crew from Ladder58-25 began roof venting operations, conditions began to
worsen and command ordered them off the roof. Soon aftercommand requested the evacuation of the structure and evac tones were struck. Afteran emergency accountability check, several firefighters made a hard push to extinguish the remaining fire in the voids and attic.
- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
Lightning Ignites Apartment Building UnderConstruction
On May 8, 2024, at 0525 in Susquehanna Township, during a severe storm in the Metro Harrisburg area, Box 32-6 toned forlightning that struck a building causing a fire in the area of Commerce Drive. Chief 32-1 advised of a callerin the area indicating the building was struck by lightning and there was fire on the third floor. The working fire brought Wagon 4, Engine 301, Tower1, Rescues 33, 20, and Air13 to the scene. Chief 32 arrived to fire showing from the A/B cornerof a three-story apartment building underconstruction. Engine 32 laid a supply line, providing waterto Truck 32 initially and then Tower1 as well as handlines on side A. Engine 33 laid anotherline from the C side and supplied Truck 91 and an attack line. Although there were hydrants on the property, they were not operational. Command ordered all companies to operate defensively, using aerial streams and handlines. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in 20 minutes and held to the A/B side of the building. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0614.
- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Island Fire on Schuylkill River
On June 9, 2024, at 1551, UpperProvidence Township Department of Fire and Emergency Services’(UPTDFES) Station 68 was notified of an unknown type of fire somewhere in the area of the FitzwaterStation restaurant in Mont Clare nearthe Schuylkill River. Since Station 68 was committed to a building fire at the Parkhouse Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, county automatically sent LowerProvidence, Phoenixville and Kimberton to this incident. Crews found a very large pile of debris from past flooding on an island adjacent to FitzwaterStation. Boats from Phoenixville, Limerick and Phoenixville Dive were used, as well as assistance from Black Rock, Valley Forge, Ridge and TowerHealth Ambulance. The UpperProvidence Township Public Works team brought three portable pumps and boats to transport hose, pumps and equipment from Lock 60 to the island. Station 68 Chief did not want crews operating afterdark and the equipment was left on the island. The scene was cleared at 2100 Sunday. Station 68 crews returned early June 10 to complete extinguishment of the fire.
- Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
Blaze Destroys Wiconisco Home
Wiconisco firefighters responded to a working structure fire in the 200 block of Pottsville Street in Wiconisco on April 30, 2024. Soon afterdispatch multiple units arrived on scene of a large 2-1/2 story home. Crews found a nearby pile of rubbish being burnt, which had extended to the rearof the home and spread into a basement garage area and then to the attic. As crews made theirway inside to begin theirinterior attack, they were met with hazardous conditions and the steps were inaccessible. Liberty Hose 2 and Lykens Truck 22 positioned on the Aside and put the bucket into service on the A/D corner. As they attempted to cut a vent/access hole in the side of the home, thick black smoke began to billow out. Othercrews stretched handlines to the B/C cornerand D side while others had lines in service on the Aside. Additional manpowerwas requested to battle the stubborn fire. Soon fire made its way out of the top floorA-side windows. Waterwas rapidly put on the fire and knocked it down once again. Rehab 24 setup across the street with hydration and snacks forcrews. Afterchasing down pockets of fire the smoke finally began to dissipate. Early on in the incident evacuation tones were struck pulling all crews out of the home.
Wiconisco Handles LZ for Life Flight 5
On April 4, 2024, Company 23 was called to establish a landing zone forincoming medevac requested by EMS. Company 23 and Williamstown EMS and Life Team arrived at the LZ and awaited GeisingerLife Flight 5 arrival. Soon afterarriving overhead and safely touching down, crews assisted the flight crew with loading the patient fortransport.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
2-Vehicle Crash in Eldred Township
On April 28, 2024, a call came in forDistricts 10 and 13 regarding an MVA in Eldred Township, Schuylkill County, with multiple patients. On arrival, crews found two vehicles involved. EMS evaluated occupants of the vehicles and it was determined one required a medevac. At that time Rescue 13-50 arrived on scene with manpowerassisting District 10, while Chief 13 was asked to handle the Ranch Road LZ command/operations. Life Flight touched down and crews assisted with loading the patient onboard the helicopter. As tow trucks arrived, crews were call just a short distance away fora medical assist. Engine 10-10 remained on scene until the vehicles were removed.
Kayak Rescue on Perkiomen Creek
At 1032, on June 1, 2024, Perkiomen Township’s Engine 66 was dispatched fora report of a technical rescue from a steep embankment on the Perkiomen Creek nearthe intersection of Routes 29 and 73. Multiple fire companies responded for a kayakerwho needed assistance. Crews waded into the waterfrom Red Fox Park and brought him and his kayak to the opposite shore. Perkiomen’s volunteers were in service forabout 70 minutes and responded directly from Perkiomen Township’s Community Day event. Mutual aid responded from Skippack, Lower Frederick, Limerick Fire, Royersford, Plymouth Community Ambulance Association Medic 308 and Pennsylvania State Police. Thanks to the fire police for keeping the scene safe forfirst responders. - Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Cranberry Twp. VFC hosted the 7th 24-hour Emergency Response Simulations
On May 18 and 19, 2024, Cranberry Township VFC hosted the 7th 24-hourEmergency Response Simulations at the Cranberry Twp. Public Safety Training Center. Call simulations ranged from EMS assists, vehicle fires, vehicle crashes, structure fires, waterrescues and more. Crews from the following fire departments participated. Cranberry Twp., Harmony Fire District, Glassport, Jefferson Hills,
Berkeley Hills, Sardis, Etna, Moon Run, Emsworth, Adams Area Fire District and Six Nations from Canada. Approximately 70 calls were dispatched throughout the 24 hours All crews enjoyed a dinnerthat was provided by the Cranberry Twp. VFC Ladies Auxiliary. Numerous instructors assisted the students in all of the events.
- Fire News photos by Artie Osniak
Training Live Burn Training at Montgomery County Fire Academy
On June 3, 2024, Perkiomen Township Fire Company volunteers took Pipeline 66 and Air66 to the Montgomery County Fire Academy in Conshohocken to participate in a live burn training with some of their mutual aid partners from UpperProvidence Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Royersford Fire Department, Black Rock VolunteerFire Company and Trappe Fire Company. The mixed teams worked multiple scenarios and evolutions in a supervised structure burn training. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
SPAAMFAA SummerConvention
On June 8, 2024, the SPAAMFAA(Society forthe Preservation and Appreciation of Antique MotorFire Apparatus in America) SummerConvention was hosted by the Old Fire Farts of York County, featuring their11th Annual Flea Market and Musterheld
at Central York High School. Judging, pumping and extrication demonstrations, awards and several food trucks were on hand. The weatherwas fantastic and the event was well attended.
- Fire News photos by Steve Lenz and Jason Coleman-Cobb
FUELINGINNOVATION AND UNITY: INSIDE THE EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO
The premier gathering for First Responders, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, established in 2014, is held annually in Connecticut. This annual event serves as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, drawing first responders from across the nation to share knowledge, discover cutting-edge technologies, and forge lasting connections.
At the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, attendees immerse themselves in a dynamic environment where learning is paramount and camaraderie thrives. From informative workshops and interactive demonstrations to engaging networking sessions, every aspect of the expo is meticulously curated to enrich the attendee experience.
One of the standout features of the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is its diverse lineup of speakers and presenters. Renowned experts in the field share insights into the latest trends, techniques, and best practices, empowering attendees to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s an enlightening keynote address or a hands-on workshop led by seasoned professionals, each session offers invaluable opportunities for learning and growth.
exhibit hall filled with leading vendors showcasing state-of-the-art equipment, innovative technologies, and essential resources for EMS and fire departments. Attendees have the chance to explore the latest products, engage with industry experts, and discover solutions to enhance their operations.
But the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is more than just a trade show, it’s a community. Attendees come together to share stories, celebrate successes, and support one another in their shared mission to serve and protect their communities. The sense of camaraderie and unity that permeates the event is palpable, creating an environment where lasting connections are forged and lifelong friendships are made.
Beyond the educational offerings, the expo boasts a bustling
As the largest and fastest-growing EMS & FIRE Expo on the East Coast, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is a must-attend event for anyone in the emergency services industry. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to stay at the forefront of your field or a newcomer eager to learn from the best, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion, inspire your work, and propel you to new heights in your bailiwick.
2 Allegheny County EMS Agencies Earn Highest HonorforNational Accreditation
The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS.org) announced on May 3, 2024, that the McCandless-Franklin Park Ambulance Authority (MFPAA) and Ross/West View EMSA(RWV) have earned their national accreditation. Apress conference was held at the Allegheny County Public Safety Training Campus in Allison Park, in which, State Senators Devlin Robinson and Lindsay Williams presented Chief Dell and Chief Porter with a State Senate Recognition Award. Acertificate of achievement was issued to both Chiefs from Representative Rob Mercury’s office. Representatives from Arvand Venkat’s office, along with members by the Board of Directors of both agencies,were present.
Currently, there are over 18,000 EMS agen-
cies in the United States. Only 182 EMS agencies in the nation meet the CAAS accreditation
level. That number just increased by two for these neighboring EMS agencies located in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny County.
As part of the year long process, CAAS
inspectors performed extensive off-site and onsite reviews of both agency’s procedures, policies, facilities, equipment, ambulance fleet and personnel. The initial CAAS application had over 1,200 documents for submission. The CAAS two-day on-site inspection had a checklist of 1,000 items. The CAAS reviewers focused on: patients receiving first-rate medical care, response times, efficient management practices, safety and training for continuous quality improvement.
CAAS reviewers also worked directly with the EMS agencies Medical Directors of UPMC and AHN: Dr. Alan Shapiro, Dr. Adam Frisch and Dr. Chadd Nesbit. Both MFPAAand RWV have met the CAAS Standard of Excellence.
- Submitted by Michael Wholihan
Allison Community Risk Reduction
The Allison Hook and LadderCompany 2 received word that two of theirneighbors needed some assistance repairing some safety hazards in theirhome. The company raised the money forthe materials and Allison members made the repairs. Nate Barbolish, Joe Kuhn, Jason Lloyd and Justin Zimmerman completed the work. Community Risk Reduction (CRR) focusing on the prevention of injuries is an important mission at Allison. Stopping by were members of State Fire CommissionerTom Cook’s staff to see the project. The commissioneris an advocate of CRR and Allison works with his office to improve safety in theirneighborhood.
Pictured in right picture left to right: Joe Kuhn, Nick Barbolish, Jason Lloyd and Justin Zimmerman. (Not pictured is Brad Myers). - Fire News photos by Steve Austin
2nd Tri Valley HS Mock DUI Event
Crews participated and put on the second annual Tri Valley Mock DUI event at the Tri Valley High School on April 19, 2024. Crews simulated a two-carcrash with patients to show the awareness of distracted and drunk driving.
- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Montgomery County Fire Academy Graduation: Class 2401
Congratulations to two Perkiomen Township volunteer firefighters who graduated from the Montgomery County Fire Academy on June 12, 2024. Noah McCafferty and Jared Mehl have completed the Pennsylvania Entry Level FirefighterTraining Program and are both now interior-qualified members. The training totaled over200 hours both during class and practice/studying outside of class. Congratulations from all of us at Station 66!
- Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
NewtoTHEM
Hegins Valley’s Brian Musolino
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brian William Musolino, 46 of Hegins, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle and dedicated public servant. Brian passed away at home on Friday, March 8, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones after a long and courageous fight with pancreatic cancer.
In addition to his mother, Brian is survived by his devoted wife, Kelly and daughter, Mykenna who lovingly cared for him. He is also survived by sisters, Joann Jadush, Debra, wife of James Noggle, Joanie, wife of Danny Marvin; three brothers, George Below, husband of Louise, Tom, husband of Mary Beth, and Joe, husband of Nichole; a sister in law, Kristie Klinger, wife of Wayne; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Brian’s (affectionately known as ‘Big Blue’) firefighting career began at the age of 14 in Freeland, PA. In 2011, he joined Valley View Fire
Company where he held many offices and was an essential part of the merger with Hegins Fire Company. Brian’s last call as Lieutenant with Hegins Valley Fire Rescue will come at his Celebration of Life service.
Brian served as an EMTin some capacity for 28 years, including volunteering with the Citizens Fire Company, Mahanoy City EMS and Hegins Area Ambulance Association, and culminating in his position with Penn State Life Lion. His love of scuba diving uniquely qualified him to also serve as a Public Safety Diver for West End Fire and Rescue Dive Team member.
Amemorial service was held on April 27, 2024. Memorial contributions in Brian’s name can be made to the Hegins Valley Fire Rescue, P.O. Box 146 Hegins PA, 17938.
- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
Perkiomen’s Bobby Hanshaw Deploys with National Guard
At the Perkiomen Township Fire Company’s monthly meeting on May 13, 2024, they recognized and celebrated volunteerfirefighterRobert ‘Bobby’Hanshaw on his upcoming deployment as part of the US Army National Guard. He was joined by his parents and his sister. Thanks, Bobby, foryourcontinued service to yourcommunity and yourcountry!
- Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins and Summer Uchin
