Fire News, Wildwood edition 2024

Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association

Post Office Box 935, Wildwood, NJ 08260-0935

Member Volunteer Fire Companies

Anglesea - North Wildwood

Wildwood - Holly BeachWest Wildwood - Wildwood Crest

Another year has passed, and The Five Mile Beach Volunteer Fireman’s Association welcomes you and your family back to the Wildwoods. We at Five Mile Beach, as well as the business community look forward to your return to our island. We hope you enjoy our beach and boardwalk, as well as the many services we have to offer including many fine restaurants and pleasure businesses, including parasailing, jet skis and fishing charters to name a few. The fire service is demanding and a break is well deserved.

There is an antique fire apparatus show on Sunday from 10:00 until 2:00 in front of

Convention Hall that is sure to please of you can fit it into your schedule.

We have been working toward increasing participation in the Memorial parade on Saturday. Registration is again available at Fox Park expo area on Friday and again on Saturday morning at Anglesea Fire Company in North Wildwood. We have added a new division for children and families to participate in the parade by decorating their bikes in a red, white and blue or a fire related theme. We would love to see your family involved.

Look for the Warrior Wagon with a new food source this year. The wagon is staffed by

the Wildwood High School students under the direction of a Gordon Ramsey Chef. All proceeds benefit the students of Wildwood High School.

Don’t forget, your donations at the gates benefit the Burn Foundation and St. Judes Children's Hospital.

If you need any assistance while here, look for any of our members in either a red or blue shirt with the Five Mile Beach emblem on the back. On behalf of The Five Mile Beach Volunteer Fireman’s Association, we hope you enjoy your visit to the Wildwoods.

-Ernie Troiano, Jr.; President FMBVFA

CHIEFS, DELEGATES, LIFE MEMBERS

The Officers and Executive Committee of the New Jersey State Firemen's Association would like to welcome everyone to the 2024 Annual Convention. This will be the 147th Convention of the Association. For those that may be confused by the math, although we were incorporated in 1885, we count the seven statewide formation meetings in the prior years along with the meeting the year we were incorporated.

Friday’s session will contain the Annual Memorial Service and business meeting. Registration will be from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. To try to keep the lines down, please limit those coming in to the Convention Center to just those individuals who have business there or are required to be there. Delegates and Life Members should have their white and red registration cards in hand as they enter the Convention Center to help speed up the registration process. The Memorial Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. and the business meeting will immediately follow. We will be taping the Memorial Service so that it can be added to our website for viewing at any time. Although we do our best to not miss the listing of any members that pass, we are human and mistakes may happen. If you notice any omissions from the list of our departed members, please see one of the Officers after the meeting so we can investigate any unfortunate errors that may have occurred. Deborah Hospital will be onsite on Friday and Saturday conducting the health screening that they do every year. The American Red Cross will be onsite Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. conducting a blood

drive. Please sign up to donate by calling 1-800733-2767. Walk-ins will also be accepted.

The election of your State Officers and voting on four ballot questions will take place on Saturday, 9/14, at the Convention Center from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Again, to try to keep the lines down, please limit those coming in to the Convention Center to just those individuals who have business there or are required to be there. Delegates and Life Members should have their white and red registration cards in hand as they enter the Convention Center to help speed up the voting process. We set up a "suggested" voting time schedule by county in order to try to keep the lines short. Although not mandatory, please try to adhere to that schedule. Information concerning the schedule is available from your local Relief Association Secretary. Anyone that attended their County Caucus was also given a packet of information which contained the suggested voting time schedule. You will be electing your State Officers for the coming year and even though we have no opposition, we ask for your support. The first three ballot questions of the four ballot questions are required "housekeeping" questions and we ask you to vote yes on them.

Over the past year your Officers, along with the Executive Committee, continue to move the Association forward in a very positive and effective manner. We currently have three programs that the NJSFAadministers to assist our members and their families.

(Continued on page 60)

CAMPBELLSUPPLY

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.South Lot 1-5, 29,30,45,46,61,62,77-80

2 AIR DEB - MAGNAGRIP

.OCEAN AVE NORTH 6 AIRPOWER INTL

.D TENT 8 ARMOR TUFF FLOORS

ASI FIRE/RESCUE

BILLFOX & SONS . .

.SOUTH LOT 98

.AB CENTER 19

.AB TENT REG 26

BLADENSBURG VOLUNTEER FIRE CO . . . . .D TENT 3

BLAZE EMERGENCYEQUIPMENT

.SOUTH LOT 90,91,92

BOLT RESCUE .

.AB TENT REG 34 BOX 31 LEATHER

.GATES

ECKERT FIRE TACTICS LLC

ELECTRONIC MEASUREMENT LABS

.NORTH LOT 20

.AB REG 14

ELITE VEHICLE SOLUTIONS .

.SOUTH LOT 27 & 28 EMERGENCYEQUIPMENT SALES

.SOUTH LOT 36-37,52-53,68-69

EMERGENCYSOFTWARE (Enforsys)

ESI EQUIPMENT

ESO

INSPECTD .

JPCUSTOM LEATHER

KBS INOVATIONS

KC SIGN

KETTERERS RESCUE

LEAF GUARD

.AB TENT REG 57

.SOUTH LOT 8, 9, 10

.AB TENT REG 27

FAST LANE EMERGENCYVEHICLES

FEDERALSIGNAL

FIRE COM

FIRE FLOW SERVICES

.OCEAN AVE NORTH 16 & 17

.SOUTH LOT 14

.AB TENT REG 22

.OCEAN AVE NORTH 15

FIRE GROUND TECHNOLOGY

FIRE HOUSE GRANTS

.SOUTH LOT 70

.AB TENT REG 53

FIRE NEWS-OFFICIALNEWSPAPER . .AB CENTER 20

FIRE TECH USA

FIREFIGHTER ONE/FERRARAFIRE

.AB TENT REG 56

.SOUTH LOT 39-42, 54-58,71-74

FIREHOUSE INOVATIONS

FIREMANS LOCKER

.NORTH LOT 29

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FIRST CHOICE (E-ONE) . .SOUTH LOT 31,47,63, 81-83

FIRST DUE FABRICATION

FIRST NET

.NORTH LOT 28

.BALLFIELD 8

FIRST PRIORITYEMERGENCYVEHICLES

.OCEAN AVE. NORTH 21-23

FISHER SPORTWEARAB TENTS 1-3, 5, 17 & 33, 49-51

FLEET REPS LLC

FLOOR SKINZ

FMBVFAT SHIRTS AND MUGS

FOWLER COMPANY

GARAGE

GRIFFITH POTTERYHOUSE INC

.SOUTH LOT 85

.AB TENT REG 43

.BEER GARDEN

.AB TENT REG 30

.SOUTH LOT 21

.AB REG 29 AB CENTER 12

HACKENSACK MEDRIDIAN HEALTH AIR METHODS

.AB TENT REG 35

HAINES FIRE & RISK CONSULTING

.SOUTH LOT 12 & 13

HILLYARD THE CLEANING RESOURSE

.AB TENT REG 19

HOOKS & HALLIGANS .

.AB TENT REG 31

HUDSON COUNTYMOTORS . . . . .NORTH LOT 10 - 14

HYATTSVILLE VOLFIRE DEPARTMENT . . . .D TENT 7 INDUSTRIALINSPECTIONS & ANALYSIS

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LIBERTYART WORKS

LINCOLN FINANCIALGROUP

MADHOUZ TECHMASTERS

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.AB TENT REG 12

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.BALLFIELD 9

.AB REG 45

.NORTH LOT 31

.AB CENTER 14

.SOUTH LOT 15

.OCEAN AVE SOUTH 5 MAI AMERICA

MATHENYFIRE & EMERGENCY

.NORTH LOT 3-4

.SOUTH LOT 33,34,49,50,51,65,66,67

MEDICALESSENTIALS DIAGNOSTICS

.AB TENT REG 58

MIDATLANTIC RESCUE SYSTEMS

.OCEAN AVE NORTH 1 & 2

MILSPRAY

.SOUTH LOT 18

MITCHELLASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS / FIVE BUGLES DESIGNS

.AB TENT CENTER 4

MOOSE SAFETYSUPPLY . . .SOUTH LOT 102-103-104

MULTIIPURPOSE WEBBING INC . . . .AB TENT REG 60

MUNICIPALMARKETING

MUNICIPALSAFETYSUPPLY

.AB TENT REG 39

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NATIONALFALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION

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NATIONALHIGHWAYPRODUCTS

NEW JERSEYAMERICAN WATER

NEW JERSEYCITYUNIVERSITY

. .D TENT 4

.AB TENT CENTER 15

.AB CENTER 3

NEW JERSEYFIRE EQUIPMENT CO

.NORTH LOT 1 & 2

NEW YORK FIRE EQUIPMENT . . . . . . .SOUTH LOT 20

NJ FIRE & EMS LIFE LINE - RUTGERS EDU

SPANKY'S BBQ

Welcome Firefighters!

On behalf of my fellow Commissioners Krista McConnell and Steve Mikulski and myself, we would like to once again welcome you to the Firemens Convention in the City of Wildwood. It is our great honor to continue this long-standing relationship with you.

Wildwood looks forward to the fire companies visiting. We get excited to see the trucks and we always honor our heroes in uniform, such as yourselves.

We can tell the feeling is mutual because we know when the convention was cancelled due to Covid, many of your squads came to

ERNIE TROIANO, Jr.

Mayor; Commissioner of Public Works, Parks & Recreation and Special Events Mayor@wildwoodnj.org

Wildwood anyway, spent time in our hotels and frequented our establishments. We cannot thank you enough for your loyal patronage. You are heroes in more ways than one.

Enjoy this much-deserved break from the very exhausting jobs you do 365 days a year. No one deserves a trip to Wildwood more than you do.

Take care, have fun and God bless,

KRISTAMcCONNELL

Commissioner, Department of Revenue and Finance KFitzsimons@wildwoodnj.org

Welcome Back

Brother and Sister Firefighters,

It is truly an honor and a privilege to welcome you all back on behalf of the Officers and Firefighters of the City of Wildwood Fire Department. The City of Wildwood Fire Department continues to take great pride in being your host fire department and protecting the many lives of our brothers and sisters, along with their families, that visit us every year. As we embark on the 147th New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention, we hope the convention provides you all with the opportunity to enjoy, not only the convention, but also the many amenities that our island has to offer as well as the ability to escape from the daily grind. Continue to look out for one another and keep the brotherhood/sisterhood alive. God Bless our Troops and God Bless America!

Stay Safe!

Ernie Troiano III Chief of Department City of Wildwood Fire Department

Very Sincerely Yours, Ernie Troiano, Jr

STEVE MIKULSKI

Deputy Mayor, Department of Public Affairs and Public Safety SMikulski@wildwoodnj.org

Cover Story

Million DollarHome

Destroyed by Fire

On June 13, 2024, Englewood Police received a single call via SPEN about a house fire on Walton Street. Responding companies saw a large column of smoke and reported a home well involved. On arrival, command confirmed a working fire with heavy fire showing from the second floorof a large two-story dwelling. Asecond alarm was called and crews reported the home was unoccupied. Crews attempted to knock the bulk of the fire with theirdeckgun but the fire had already made headway into the attic and was burning through the roof. The E-3 chaufferalso reported he was having problems with the hydrant and a second water source was needed. Portions of the roof started to collapse and a small explosion was heard in the building, forcing command to evacuate the crews and go to defensive operations. The main body of fire was knocked down in just underan hour. The million-dollarhome was heavily damaged and crews remained on the scene forseveral more hours. The fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo

LODD

Kinnelon’s Justin Bower Obituaries

We are saddened by the sudden loss of Lieutenant Justin Bower on November 18, 2023. Justin responded to a residential carbon monoxide alarm on November 18, 2023. After returning home two hours later, his wife found him unconscious and immediately called 911. Emergency responders attempted to revive him but were unsuccessful. He passed away from an apparent heart attack.

Justin was a beloved husband, son, uncle, brother, friend and member of his community. He served as a Lieutenant with the Kinnelon Volunteer Fire Company while also being the business owner of the much-loved Taste of Reality Deli & Catering. He has touched the lives of so many people around him through his service, always lending a hand when needed, and answering every call. His humor, generosity and kindness will not be forgotten.

-Fire News photo provided by Kinnelon VFD

LODD

Plainfield’s Marques Hudson

On Friday, January 26, 2024, Plainfield Firefighter Marques Hudson responded to a residential fire. While fighting the fire, he became trapped and a Mayday was called. Firefighter Hudson was immediately rescued and CPR was performed. He was then transported to the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital where he succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the accident. Four other firefighters were also taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Marques was 32-years old.

Marques Hudson served as a Firefighter for the City of Plainfield for two years. Outside of serving the city, he found great joy in coaching T-Ball for his son’s team, the Orioles, through Piscataway Recreation. When he was not coaching, he attended every game and school event, which instilled confidence and discipline in his children. Marquise was a family man who found it important to lead by example and to walk in pride with every decision he made. Left to mourn his memory, his partner in life and love, D’onnah Jones, and his three sons Kaleb, Josiah and Isaiah Hudson. He also leaves behind, his mother Vickie Hudson, a sister, Jaqwetta Hudson-Bonus, two brothers, Allen and Jaquan Hudson, nieces, a nephew, and a host of other relatives and friends. - Fire News photos provided by Plainfield FD

LODD - South Bound Brook’s Deputy Chief Craig Konkle

On March 23, 2024, Deputy Chief Craig Konkle of the South Bound Brook Fire Department, answered his last alarm. He responded to the scene of an MVAand assisted at the crash site until the vehicle was removed and then returned home. At around 1400 the same day, he suffered a medical emergency. First responders were immediately called and he was rushed to the local hospital where he was pronounced deceased from an apparent heart attack. He was a 17-year volunteer member and was 54 years old.

- Submitted by the U.S. Fire Administration

Fire News Welcomes You to the 2024 New Jersey Fire Expo!

It is hard to believe that 19-years ago, the dedicated staff at Fire News embarked on an adventure and created the New Jersey Fire News. Thank you to the photographers who shared their thoughts to make sure our newspaper represented the entire state of New Jersey.

It seems like yesterday that Publisher Frank Trotta, Chief Operating Officer (thenExecutive Editor) Tim Edwards and Advertising Director Barbara Connolly traveled to Wildwood to participate in the convention. In 2013, Fire News was asked to become the official newspaper of the New Jersey Fire Expo. This honor, that we proudly embarked on, brought us closer to the New Jersey fire service. After 10 years of working with the Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association, we worked together, overcoming problems such as the Covid pandemic and other problems like a major fire in

2013 that forced firefighters to put everything aside to battle the flames on a major boardwalk at the Fun Town Pier in Seaside Heights.

Since 2013, Fire News continued to represent the New Jersey fire service and continued to highlight our advertisers, keeping you up to date with our Industry News and Special Feature pages in our newspaper. We did this to highlight those who work hard to support all firefighters with the latest and greatest products that make the firefighter’s job safer. Be sure that you stop by our advertiser’s booths at the convention to discuss some of the new products that are available to you.

Every month, we reach your firehouse. As you look through Fire News, ask yourself if your department is represented in our monthly paper. It's important that your department be represented. If you do not see your depart-

ment, give some serious consideration to appointing a department Public Information Officer who can send us news. If you are worried about the technicalities of e-mailing Fire News your photos and stories, feel free to contact us for help. We have a great staff of experts, who can solve most of the issues you may encounter. Editor Gary Joyce, who is the man who puts this paper together, with our very talented art staff of Cliff Chiesa, Greg Jones, Lynn Sedler, Suzanne Bancroft and Bryan Lopez.

Thank you to Ernie Troiano, Jr., and the Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association for your hard work in organizing the New Jersey Fire Expo at Wildwood and for believing in Fire News. Stay safe and stop by the Fire News booth to say hello and to share your ideas and stories with us. Enjoy the NJ Fire Expo! - The Staff at Fire News

Burn Foundation Artists Combine Talents for2024 Artwork

For the 44th Year of his partnership with the BURN FOUNDATION and its annual fundraiser at the NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ, artist Joseph M. Getsinger (semi-retired) has teamed up with very talented 3D Artist, Jarryd Ley. They are creating something very unique for this year’s Burn Foundation fundraiser at the September Fireman’s Convention. Over the years Joe’s work has depicted many aspects of emergency response featuring firefighters and their equipment, their history, and various evolutions of the first responder experience. The 2024 painting will be a combination of young and more seasoned art talent. Jarryd Ley posed for last year’s painting, “LASTRUN,” in his grandfather’s gear to honor him. His grandfather was Donald ‘Pops’Ley, Sr., who was a lifetime member of the Woodbury Heights Fire Department, Mayor, Councilman, Vice President of First Fidelity Bank and Korean War veteran serving in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant. Sadly, his grandfather passed last year.

This year’s art project ‘Slaying the Beast’is sponsored in full by David Russell, President, FIRE & SAFETYSERVICES Ltd., South Plainfield, NJ, and Pierce Manufacturing.

With the aid of (retired) Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr., Fire Chief Philip Drangula and members of the Cinnaminson Fire Department the photo shoot was completed with a Pierce

Continued on page 14

David Russell and his father William Russell have supported the Burn Foundation and the artist for over 25 years. David Russell has also financed the printing of the raffle tickets.

Burn Foundation from page 12

aerial fire truck. This photoshoot was aided by Drone Photographer and Deputy Chief Ira Schonfeld and Firefighter Amanda Mahler who was on the top of the aerial fire truck during the photoshoot attended and directed by Getsinger.

The Burn Foundation was established in 1973 to provide fundraising for the emerging specialty for the treatment of burn injuries. The foundation was formed with the mission to aid burn patients, their families and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four regional Burn Centers at Crozer Chester Medical Center, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Temple University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, their patients, families, and staff, have all benefited from contributions raised at various events throughout the years. But none is more important than the annual NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood. Joe Getsinger’s art has been a major influence in the foundation’s successful fundraising efforts in Wildwood since 1980.

This year’s sponsor for the Collector Pins is First Harvest Credit Union. Vice President Kenneth Barnshaw was proud to sponsor the collector pin for the fifth year to support the work of the Burn Foundation. From its original roots in Camden County as South Jersey Federal Credit Union, it has expanded its presence all the way to the Jersey Shore. Ten full-service locations in New Jersey include the corporate office in Deptford, NJ with branches in Camden, Glassboro, Pleasantville, Voorhees, Mt. Laurel and Vineland. In addition, they serve their members in Philadelphia and Williamsport, PA.

John McCann, Administrator for the Burn Foundation, reported that last year over $14,800 was raised with the donation raffle of the’Last Run’Giclee canvas and 24 signed and numbered limited-edition prints.

Burn Foundation, 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, PA19103 supports the greater Delaware Valley through education and support of five regional Burn Centers.

You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.or or call 215-5453816. Special thanks to Administrator John McCann for his support and dedication through the years.

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photos by Joseph Fortunato

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photo by Joseph Fortunato

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photo by Joseph Fortunato

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photo by Joseph Fortunato

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photo by Joseph Fortunato

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photos by Joseph Fortunato

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

~ Parade 2023 ~

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

~ Parade 2023 ~

- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

ATribute to the Fallen on the 23rd Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks ATribute to the Fallen on the 23rd Anniversary of the 9/11 Attacks

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

- Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam

~ Scenes From the 2023 Show ~

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

~ Year in Review ~

Fire Guts Attached Garage in Budd Lake

Byram Township Fire was dispatched to Sleepy Hollow Road fora garage fire. Upon arrival of a chief, heavy fire was found coming from the garage, and a second alarm was dispatched. The attached garage was fully involved and crews went to work knocking down the fire and keeping the fire from entering the rest of the house. The crews went inside, opened and checked the rest of the house forextension. There were no injuries. The fire was underinvestigation by the Byram Township Police and the Sussex County Fire Marshal’s Office.

- Fire News photos by Kevin J. Maloney

~ Year in Review ~ Gasoline TankerTurns into Fireball

Agasoline tankertruck and carresulted in a massive fire ball which destroyed the truck, a commercial building and multiple parked cars. Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department was dispatched to the area of the White Castle on Route 17. The gasoline tankerhad rolled overand was fully involved with a structure and numerous cars burning. Anotheralarm was requested to bring foam trucks from Teaneck, Garfield and Passaic. Miraculously, only two minorinjuries were reported and despite exposure concerns, the fire was held to the building originally involved. The highway needed to be shut down in both directions and NJ Transit traffic was halted and there was a large area poweroutage due to high voltage transmission lines being damaged. - Fire News photos by Pete Danzo

~ Year in Review ~

RiverEdge Home Collapse

On May 27, 2023, the RiverEdge Fire Department was dispatched to Eastbrook Drive fora reported garage fire. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire in a three-carattached garage undera large two-story home and several vehicles burning in the driveway. Due to the amount of fire, a second alarm was requested, bringing mutual aid companies to the scene. The home was located in a cul-de-sac at the end of a long dead-end street which presented watersupply problems. The fire quickly spread throughout the home which collapsed less than two hours afterthe fire was reported. Companies remained on the scene through the night and responded back several times overthe Memorial Day weekend to control flare-ups until a demolition crew could pull the rubble apart. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

~ Year in Review ~ Family Dog Rescued from House Fire in

Galloway

Galloway Township

Ambulance Squad EMTs administeroxygen to a family dog with smoke inhalation, rescued from a house fire on Hobart Avenue. Firefighters from Absecon and Galloway Township rescued the dog. - Fire News photo by Ronald Bombaro

~ Year in Review ~ 3 Firefighters and 1 Civilian Injured in Elmwood Park Fire

2-Alarm Fire

Alate morning fire injured three firefighters and a civilian in Elmwood Park on June 12, 2024. The Elmwood Park Fire Department was dispatched to the Town House Inn fora reported fire. Crews reported heavy smoke showing and transmitted a second alarm. Heavy fire was blowing out a window in the rearof the building and police reported someone trapped on the second floorin the rear. Athird alarm was requested forcoverand, as crews stretched lines into the building, found and removed the trapped occupant out of a window. One firefightersuffered a laceration and was transported to the hospital. The victim suffered smoke inhalation and was also transported to the hospital. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down and the fire was brought undercontrol in just overan hour. Two otherfirefighters suffered from smoke inhalation but were treated on the scene.

Damages PopularStrip Mall

Atwo alarm fire early on July 26, 2024, severely damaged a Fair Lawn strip mall. The FairLawn Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a structure fire with flames coming from the rearof the Green Dragon Restaurant. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and fire was found coming from the rearof the building. FairLawn Assistant Fire Chief Ralph Rinaldo quickly transmitted a working fire assignment and also called fora second alarm foradditional coverage. The fire quickly spread, compromising the roof and the fight went exterior, with the roof collapsing shortly thereafter. The fire spread through the cockloft to the otherbusinesses in the complex and caused widespread damage to all the businesses located in the strip mall.

- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

in FairLawn

Extensive overhaul operations continued through mid-morning at the fire location. There were no injuries to building occupants orto firefighters. In addition to the FairLawn Fire Department; Fair Lawn Police, FairLawn Rescue Squad, FairLawn Office of Emergency Management and the FairLawn VolunteerAmbulance Corp provided assistance on scene. Mutual aid was provided by Saddle Brook, Elmwood Park, Paterson, Hawthorne, Wyckoff, and Paramus. The fire brought approximately 50 firefighters to the scene. The fire was underinvestigation by the FairLawn Fire Prevention Bureau. - Story Submitted by Douglas Sadowski, PIO Fair Lawn FD & photos by Peter Danzo

~ Year in Review ~

Truck

Collides with School Bus

Paterson Fire Department responded to an overturned scrap metal truck and school bus MVAon Route 19 on July 11, 2023. No students were on the bus and the drivers of both vehicles suffered only minorinjuries.

- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro

~ Year in Review ~ Resorts Casino Facade Fire

Quickly Extinguished

The Atlantic City Fire Department responded to Pennsylvania Avenue and the Boardwalk on November 15, 2023, for a report of a structure fire and smoke coming from underneath the boardwalk. The chief radioed there was smoke and flames impinged on the front of the Resort Casino façade and requested additional engines for the evacuation of the casino.

Firefighters used a boardwalk hydrant for water supply with two handlines with additional handlines being stretched from engines on North Carolina Avenue. Aquick stop by firefighters kept flames from entering the casino with extensive overhaul needed to extinguish all of the fire.

- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe

Ground Breaking New Fire House in Asbury Park

Aftermany years of operating out of a historic fire house on Main Street, the Asbury Park Fire Headquarters had become in desperate need of a new home. The ground-breaking ceremony on the new home was on Memorial Drive. The new building will be a state-ofthe-art multi-bay fire headquarters. Surrounding area fire companies attended the ground breaking ceremony to show theirsupport.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

~ Year in Review ~ 4 Fatalities in Buena House Explosion

The volunteerfire companies of Minotola (Buena Borough), East Vineland (Buena Vista Township), and Forest Grove (Franklin Township, GloucesterCounty) responded to Northwest Boulevard in Buena Borough on August 3, 2023, at 1038, fora report of smoke coming from a building. Firefighters arrived to find that an explosion had taken place and people were trapped. Buena Chief Joe Kasper arrived and established command and was faced with a collapsed structure with possibility of occupants trapped, multiple exposures with eitherfire orextreme damage and a need formultiple mutual aid companies. Command had dispatch start responding companies with additional mutual aid coming from neighboring Cumberland

County and the City of Vineland. Command put theirmasterstream into service and had two LDH supply lines laid to a hydrant and a second masterstream was set up on the Aside. The B side exposure was involved in fire and had a camperon fire in the rearyard. On the D side, a vehicle was discovered on fire in the garage with heavy damage to the home. Medevacs were brought in, with Newfield Fire Company handling the LZ. Firefighters remained on scene formost of the day. Fourfatalities were reported; two adults and two juveniles. Hundreds of pounds of explosives were laterfound in the house, which were the cause of the explosion.

- Fire News photos by Ken Badger

~ Year in Review ~ Halloween Night Dive for Trenton Marine Task Force

House Fire in Rural Egg HarborTownship

Trenton Fire Department’s Marine Task Force responded to Lawrence Township on Halloween night to help recovera carsubmerged in a large pond. Lawrence Township fire companies were dispatched afterpolice received a report that a gray carwas sinking in the pond alongside Maple Leaf Drive in the Artisan Apartments complex. Lawrence police and firefighters arrived to find the caralmost entirely submerged. It was unclearhow the car ended up in the pond but the ownerwas quickly located ... not in the car. Atowing contractorwas called forremoval. It was cold and rainy as the two divers geared up, entered the waterand hooked up the vehicle.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

The volunteerfire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown from the Egg HarborTownship Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire on Betsy Scull Road on February 12, 2024. Firefighters were on the scene in minutes, and were faced with heavy fire showing from a large wood frame dwelling. Asecond alarm was called in forremaining township fire companies. The building was located in a rural area, a tankertask force was requested. The fire eventually went to multiple alarms and the cause is underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by Vern Cruse

~ Year in Review ~ Trenton House Fire Forces Defensive Operations

Firefighters in the state capital were kept busy battling a stubborn blaze involving both sides of a 2-1/2-story duplex on April 16, 2024. Members of Trenton Fire Department reported heavy fire was showing from the top of OliverAvenue, with flames extending into the right side exposure. First-due Engine 8 arrived and transmitted an all hands. Multiple hoselines were stretched as crews mounted an aggressive interiorattack.

Battalion Chief James Scott called an evacuation and a switch to defensive operations as the fire burned through the roof Ladder2’s aerial masterstream was put in service and the fire was officially declared undercontrol. Engines 8, 1, 9 and 10, Ladders 1, 2 and 4, and Rescue 1 operated, with Ladder4 responding as a manpower-only unit.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

~ Year in Review ~ Handicapped Man Rescued from Hamilton Township Blaze

Firefighters rescued a handicapped man from his burning home in Hamilton Township, MercerCounty, on April 2, 2023. It was shortly before 1115 when Hamilton Township Fire Department Engines 2, 3 and 4, Squad 1, Trucks 1 and 2, Rescue 1 and Battalion 1, along with several EMS units, were dispatched to Jeremiah Avenue in response to multiple 911 calls. Heavy smoke was showing from the 1-1/2 story home when Engine 2 arrived. An all hands was called, sending Hamilton’s remaining on-duty company, Engine 1, to the scene. Firefighters initiated a primary search in conjunction with an aggressive interiorattack. The trapped resident was quickly located and removed allowing EMS personnel to stabilize his condition priorto transporting him. Heavy fire conditions were encountered in the rearof the dwelling but were soon knocked down. The blaze was declared undercontrol at 1134.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

~ Year in Review ~ House and Mobile Home

Destroyed by Fire

The volunteerfire company of Cardiff was dispatched on April 10, 2024, to Reega Avenue fora report of a brush fire. Egg HarborTownship Police arrived and reported a fully involved structure, which necessitated an additional response from the Bargaintown, followed by a request forScullville and RITfrom the City of Northfield. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe established command requested the additional companies. The Cardiff engine crew stretched two lines with Bargaintown Assistant Chief Wil Hancock taking one line around the side of the structure to a fire that extended to the neighboring woodlands. The second line was taken to the Delta side. Due to the amount of fire that compromised the structure, all firefighting was done from the exterior. The fire involved two structures; the first was a wood frame dwelling and the second was a mobile home directly behind the dwelling. The intensity of the fire caused the dwelling to collapse into the crawl space, hindering extinguishment. Firefighters spent several hours hitting hot spots and overhauling. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Ken & Cindy Badger

CHIEFS, DELEGATES, LIFE MEMBERS...Continued

from page 3

The Healthcare Program continues to be a success with our members. We have just under 450 Firefighters and spouses participating in the program so far during this calendar year, and since the inception of the program over 7½ years ago, 1,075 individuals have received or continue to receive assistance toward their health care. Every County in the State has members currently enrolled in the program. This reimbursement program is available to any member who is receiving care from a licensed caregiver working with a licensed health care firm. If the Firefighter is receiving that care at home, an adult day care facility, or a rehabilitation facility, the reimbursement is an up to maximum of $6,000 per month on the net portion of the costs for care that is not being reimbursed from other providers. If the Firefighter is in a longterm/nursing home type of care facility, the reimbursement for that specific care is now an up to maximum of $12,000 per month on the net portion of the costs for care that is not being reimbursed from other providers. This benefit is available to eligible member regardless of where they live in the continental United States as long as the care givers and the health care firm they work for are licensed in the state where care is being given. Contact your Local Relief Association Officers for more information or call the NJSFAstate office. We are not accepting applications at this time for Assisted living.

there, Special Relief and Supplemental Relief forms should be filled out and submitted to the State Office for approval. Once approved by the Advisory Committee, a check can be issued for the approved Special Relief amount and notice will be sent to the Local Association on the approved amount that they may pay towards the Supplemental Relief request. As

“...I would like to thank our outstanding Office Administrative Staff, the State Officers, the Executive Committee and all of the Local Relief Officers for the assistance, cooperation and support this past year. The Local Relief Officers deserve extra thanks for getting their reports in on time.”

always, supporting documentation must be submitted with the fully completed applications. The Relief Program is a calendar yearbased program and all payments approved in a given year must be paid out by December 31st of that year and cannot carry over to the following year. After January 1st, a new application must be generated and it must go through the approval process.

tions. Everyone is reminded that for Relief to be paid, "NEED'' must be demonstrated and fully documented. We will be collecting the prior year's Local Applications for Relief every year moving forward at your County Caucus. At some point in your life, you may find yourself needing the type of services offered by the New Jersey Firemen's Home. Contact the Firemen's Home or any of the County Manager's to the Home for information on the application process to become a Guest of the Home. The New Jersey Firemen's Home is funded by the same insurance tax that funds the Local Relief Associations and the NJSFA State Office. If the Firemen's Home is full, or you find that for some reason the New Jersey Firemen's Home does not meet your needs, we remind you to take advantage of our Health Care Reimbursement Program mentioned earlier in this article.

Starting back on January 1, 2021, the Healthcare Program was opened up to spouses that need care from a licensed caregiver. Currently, new applications for the spouse program are not being accepted. Those already in the program will continue to receive reimbursement towards their care.

The Burial Benefit is currently $12,000 and Line of Duty Burial Benefit is $36,000. Any Local Relief Association Officer can submit the initial online notification form and should do so as soon as you hear of a member passing, even if that member passed a number of years ago. The benefit payment will be prorated and paid based on the allowable amount on the date of their passing. In the fiscal year that just ended June 30th, 865 claims were processed with $10,156,837.90 being paid out for this benefit.

Relief applications are available to all members should a need suddenly occur in their lives. Completed Applications with supporting documentation are reviewed by the Local Association for approval. Retired Qualified Firefighters and non-remarried surviving spouses of qualified members are also eligible to apply for Relief. In addition, if the need is

For the year of 2019 and moving forward, we made a change to the percentage calculation used to determine Qualifying Status. We eliminated the platoon system and lowered the minimum necessary percentage to 25%. This resulted in a near doubling of those that met the minimum qualifying percentage statewide each year.

The allowable age for joining our Association has changed. Active Firefighters from age 18 to 57 can now join. Applications must be received in the State office prior to the applicant turning 58. Local Associations should be using State Office online supplied Applications for Membership with a revision date of REV9/23. The physical on the application is now good for one year from the date of the physical and the physical can be administered by and signed by a New Jersey licensed Physician, Physician's Assistant or Nurse Practitioner. Make sure every line on the physical is filled in.

We are up-to-date on conducting Field Exams and the 2023 Local Applications for Relief have been collected to be reviewed in the State Office. Once reviewed, the Applications will be returned by your County Executive Committeeperson. Going over the applications at the State office has allowed the review to ensure need, and that the proper additional documentation is attached to the applica-

We urge our members and their families to take advantage of the "AGift from Captain Buscio" program, Deborah Heart and Lung Center, and the RWJ/St. Barnabas Burn Center. Please review the literature that was handed out at your County Caucus meetings and take advantage of the services being offered. The "AGift from Captain Buscio" program has recently opened a fifth office in Voorhees, NJ. Our WEB site continues to be updated with additional information and forms. Our office Building located at 1711 Highway 34 South, in Wall Township is easily accessible from anywhere in the state. All mail should be addressed to the Wall Township location and not our former address. Our full address and current phone numbers can be found on our website at www.njsfa.com.

In closing I would like to thank our outstanding Office Administrative Staff, the State Officers, the Executive Committee and all of the Local Relief Officers for the assistance, cooperation and support this past year. The Local Relief Officers deserve extra thanks for getting their reports in on time. Sadly, we have Associations not being seated this year due to reports submitted late.

Please remember to keep in your prayers our sick and departed brother and sister Firefighters, their family members, the members of our Armed Forces stationed around the world, and all of our Police, Fire and EMS first responders.

Thank you, stay safe, and may God Bless America.

- Robert F. Ordway President New Jersey State Firemen's Association

~ Year in Review ~ Van Collides with Traffic Control Truck

The volunteerfire companies of Weymouth and Laureldale in Atlantic County were dispatched on July 11, 2023, to Route 322 and Weymouth Road intersection foran MVAwith entrapment. The driverwas trapped in a van afterstriking the rearof a traffic control vehicle, flipping it, and trapping the driverof the van. Firefighters performed a partial roof removal and used RAMs to push the dashboard off of the driver. Firefighters and EMS removed the driverwho was placed into a waiting BLS unit, transported to an LZ, and flown to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, City Division. The cause of the crash was investigated by Township of Hamilton Police. Also responding were Atlanticare Paramedics, Township of Hamilton EMS and Township of Hamilton Police.

- Fire News photos by Ken Badger

4 Injured in Route 46 3-CarMVA

Recently, calls came in fora three-carMVAin front of the Days Inn on Route 46. Units arrived and found two cars in the roadway with a panel van fully involved in fire also in the roadway. Engine 59 and 95 arrived and started fire attack with the assistance of Fire Marshals 3, 4 and 5. Fourambulances from Atlantic EMS started patient care along with a medic unit. Rig 89 from Flanders was on scene to assist. Two people were taken by separate helicopters to Morristown Medical Centerand two were taken by ground to Morristown as well.

- Fire News photos by A/C Kevin J. Maloney; Budd Lake FC

~ Year in Review ~ U-Haul Storage Facility Goes Up in Flames

The volunteerfire companies of Cardiff and Farmington responded on October19, 2023, to the UHaul Storage facility on Black Horse Pike, fora report of a structure fire. Responding units were met with a large column of smoke, and upon arrival of Cardiff Chief, Gil Zonge, called a second alarm and a special request forthe Atlantic City Airport Fire Department. Ground units pulled lines as numerous storage units were ablaze. Forcible entry was needed to access the units to extinguish the fire. Mutual aid companies from throughout the county assisted in extinguishment and relief of exhausted firefighters. The fire was brought undercontrol in several hours with all units clearing the scene by 1630. The cause of the fire was investigated by the Egg HarborTownship Fire Investigator(s).

- Fire News photos by Kenneth Badger

~ Year in Review ~

All Out at Shamong Blaze

December31, 2023, Chief Baderarrived and found heavy fire showing from the side of a two-story single-family dwelling. The family had successfully evacuated. Two crews fought the fire, preventing it from extending to otherproperties.

- Fire News photos by David Hernandez

~ Year in Review ~

Fully-Engulfed Shed Fire in Medford Twp.

District 25 units were alerted fora reported shed fire with gas inside. Deputy Chief Guelich arrived and confirmed a shed well off. Engine Company 2521 stretched a line and made quick work of the shed. The siding of the home was damaged by radiant heat. No injuries were reported.

- Fire

News photos by David Hernandez

News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

In this issue...

2 Hamilton FFs Transported

Two Hamilton firefighters were transported with breathing issues from a house fire.

See story on page 74

Fighting EV Fires

SOPpoints to be considered when fighting electric vehicle (EV)fires.

See story on pages 78 & 80

Franklin Laundromat Destroyed

Heavy smoke and fire on arrival, as fire destroys the business but is kept from extending to others.

See story on page 92

Ridgefield Park Fire on a Very Hot Day

Twenty-five firefighters were treated on-scene for heat exhaustion; none required transport.

See story on page 102

2024 Burn Foundation Art

This year’s Wildwood artwork is a combination of the work of two artists.

See story on page 107

OSHANew Rules Proposal Update

The NYS Association of Fire Districts’ latest news on OSHA’sproposed Emergency Response Standard.

See story on page 108

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Focus of the Month

page 108 Business Directory .

page 109

29 Displaced by Passaic 3-Alarmer

On June 23, 2024, Passaic Fire Dispatch started receiving multiple calls fora fire on High Street. On arrival of Battalion Chief Kovacs, he found occupants trapped on the second-floorporch and requested a second alarm. The crew stretched lines, as two residents were rescued from the roof and two others from an adjacent fire escape. The fire continued to spread and command requested a third alarm for fire in three buildings. Numerous mutual aid companies responded to the scene and, with six handlines and fourelevated masterstreams the fire was knocked down in about 90 minutes. Approximately 29 people from five families were displaced from the three buildings which were heavily damaged, three firefighters suffered non-lifethreatening injuries. - Fire

News photos by Pete Danzo

Trenton Firefighters Make Rescue During 2-Alarmer

Cover Story Abandoned Hospital Fire in Trenton

Ahomeless person who was squatting in a vacant rowhouse was rescued by Trenton firefighters afterthe structure caught fire in the early hours of May 21, 2024. Engines 10, 6 and 7, Ladder4 and Rescue 1 were dispatched just after0115 in response to a 911 call reporting that smoke was coming from the boarded-up three-story home on Seward Avenue. Battalion Chief Kevin Rice and first-due companies arrived to find heavy fire showing out the front second-floorwindows, with flames impinging on overhead powerlines. The all-hands signal was called sending the balance of the first alarm (Engine 1, Ladder2 and Special Services 1) to the scene. Firefighters forced entry and, during theirprimary search, located the squatter, who was removed to the exteriorand transported by Trenton EMS to a local hospital fortreatment of smoke inhalation. Several residents of the occupied Side B exposure were also evacuated. Asecond alarm, which sent Engine 8 to the scene, was ordered foradditional manpowerbefore the blaze was finally brought undercontrol. Amutual aid aircascade unit from Hamilton was also special-called to the scene.

Firefighters in the state capital fought yet another fire in the abandoned MercerMedical Centercomplex on May 25, 2024. The Trenton Fire Department has responded to several fires there overthe years since the old hospital on Bellevue Avenue was closed in late 2013. This blaze, reported about 1535, was located on the first floornear the front of the facility. Crews from Engines 8, 9, 10 and 1, Ladders 4 and 1, and Rescue 1 managed to quickly knock down the flames using a 2-1/2-inch hoseline with an additional 1-3/4-inch put to work formop up operations.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

Clifton Responds to a Garage Fire

On May 27, 2024, Clifton Engines 1, 2, 5 and 6 and Ladders 2 and 3 responded to Grove Street for a building fire. Units arrived to a well involved garage fire in the rearof the home. Engine 6 stretched lines to the rear, knocking down the majority of the fire. Extensive overhaul was conducted.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Campground Brush Fire in Wading River

The volunteerfire companies of Weymouth and Mays Landing were dispatched at 1149 on June 17, 2024, to the Wading RiverCampground forthe report of a brush fire neara garage. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived and established command. Upon investigating, command requested an additional watertenderfrom Laureldale as there was a large pile of brush burning. Two lines were pulled from the Mays Landing tender onto the fire and a backhoe was brought in to break the pile apart. Companies remained on the scene until all fire was extinguished, with no extension to any structures. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photo by Ken Badger

2 FFs Injured in Hamilton Blaze

Two members of the Hamilton Township Fire Department (HTFD) were transported to a local hospital afterthey reportedly began experiencing respiratory issues while helping fight a house fire on May 31, 2024. The blaze on Sutton Drive was reported shortly before 2045, as several Hamilton companies were just clearing from an earlieralarm on the otherside of town. Multiple 911 calls and a column of smoke visible in the evening sky signaled a working fire to responding companies. Engine 10-1 arrived to find heavy smoke and fire showing from the B and C sides of the two-story dwelling. The fire was brought undercontrol within a half-hour. The injured firefighters were provided oxygen on scene and transported by Hamilton and Robbinsville EMS, accompanied by paramedics, to Capital Health Regional Medical Centerin Trenton. - Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

MontclairQuickly Stops Church Fire

On May 27, 2024, all Montclair Fire companies were dispatched to George Street fora reported fire in a church. Units arrived to find a fire in the soffit of the porch on the exteriorof the church. Crews quickly knocked down the fire. A mutual aid RITresponded from West Orange. The fire was placed undercontrol 15 minutes after arrival and the cause of the fire was being investigated.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Multi-Aid Gas Leak Alarm at Hamilton Mall

The volunteerfire companies of Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing, assisted by the Cardiff and Scullville Fire companies, from Egg HarborTownship in March 2024, aftera report of a gas leak at the Hamilton Mall. All responding companies were requested to bring in fans forventilation, with command requesting Cardiff foradditional fans and Scullville fortheir hovercraft to provide large ventilation. The leak appeared to be in the vicinity of the old Sears store. South Jersey Gas arrived to assist in determining the location of the leak. Crews continued theirventilation and the scene was eventually turned over to South Jersey Gas. - Fire News photo by Kenneth Badger

Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Annual August Barbecue and Entertainment

It was another warm sunny day at the NJ Firemen’s Home for our second annual barbecue on August 3, 2024. The prediction was for it to be in the low 90s so we could not keep the residents outside too long. Surprisingly, the temperature in the shade was not that bad and under all the shade trees, the residents were able to enjoy the barbecue feast.

Under the direction of Chef Prince of the NJ Firemen’s Home kitchen staff, he mastered the grill and cooked a feast for the residents, our members and all the invited guests. Everyone enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers, bockwurst, barbecue ribs and chicken, sweet corn, macaroni salad and cole slaw.

For dessert, we had two birthday cakes as we celebrated two members birthdays. Member Frank Glucker turned 98 and member George Steiger, who turned 101. Singing Happy Birthday was a nice way to end the meal. Our entertainment was the talented Kelly Carpenter, who sang many popular songs and ballads that afternoon.

It was a nice afternoon of families catching up, residents having a wonderful afternoon getting out of the home and enjoying the sunshine and an excellent meal and members of our organization enjoying our last event of the summer.

As the residents went inside as the temperatures rose that afternoon, we cleaned up and are now preparing for our October meeting and our Annual Christmas Party in December. It may be the summer, but even Santa has to prepare in advance. His annual trip to the home is less than five months away and time goes by fast.

We want to thank everyone from the fantastic staff at the NJ Firemen’s Home, to our members and to all the family members who joined us that afternoon for making it such a special event for everyone who attended. It was another successful barbecue.

- Submitted by Justin Watrel, Vice-President Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association

Being Prepared forEVFires

By Matthew Pruitt EVGoat01@gmail.com

Firefighters are no strangers to new technologies. In fact, most of us pride ourselves on being able to improve our tactics and strategies using the most up-to-date, state-ofthe-art equipment. It’s really no different in any other industry. Since the late 90s, car manufacturers around the world have been working tirelessly to bring consumers an engine that is safe, energy efficient, and great for our environment. The internal combustion engine evolution from the Model T, to the Prius and now to fully electric vehicles has created a need in the fire service to be prepared for some of the most dangerous, albeit somewhat low frequency, fires we’ve ever encountered. The infrequency and increased risk of electric vehicle fires makes it impossible to ignore and necessary to train for.

Extinguishing the typical, traditional car fire is pretty straightforward. We pull a bumper line, and go to work. Electric vehicle fires are vastly different, as you will read in this article. Extrication of a patient trapped inside an electric vehicle is delicate, for sure. You have to be extremely careful when cutting on an electric vehicle. The orange cables may be charged if the car’s safety mechanism has failed. Also the top of the battery tray, which is basically the entire floorpan of the car, could be charged. And, in my experience, thermal runaway can begin as soon as an external source - the accident or your extrication equipment - damages the battery, so you have to consider how long it has been since the accident happened. In addition, when fighting EV fires, it seems that the more water we put on them, the longer they burn. That’s true actually because the water only cools the battery cells, and will simply slow down the fire, causing it to last for hours and hours because, when burning, lithium-ion batteries create their own oxygen. Just like a fish is able to “breathe” underwater, so is a lithium-ion battery. You can’t drown either one of them.

lably hot and propagates to the next cell, eventually spreading to all the cells in the module. Even at the point of ignition, there may be no way to know where, exactly, the problem starts.

Also, unlike traditional car fires, when an EVis in thermal runaway, the motor (s) lock down. As you may know, an electric car’s battery weighs at least 1,000 pounds by itself. When added to the regular weight of a car, you’re looking at a paper weight that weighs up to 9,000 pounds. This excessive weight of a car with locked wheels presents a plethora of difficulties, to say the least.

So, what do we do? How do we fight an EVfire? What are the safest and most effective tactics? After having the opportunity to train on live EVfires in controlled environments, and having responded to multiple EVrelated incidents, we have been able to test some strategies. Some have worked better than others. I’d like to share with you some of the most impactful takeaways from my experiences.

(this is only the latest measurement of an EV fire temp, it could be hotter).

First and foremost, you will need to always make sure to wear your gear when approach-

“The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire”

The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire. You need to be aware that Li-Ion batteries in thermal runaway can give off hydrogen fluoride gas. When we apply water to the gas, it becomes hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid is a colorless, odorless liquid that is acutely dangerous. It can damage your eyes, your lungs and your skin. The danger is that hydrofluoric acid is slow burning. You may not have symptoms of exposure for several hours.

Another difference is that getting water to the origin of the fire is nearly impossible. The composition of an electric vehicle battery tray looks something like this: thousands of battery cells are put together in water-tight sets called modules, the modules are placed into a battery tray which is encapsulated in a watertight shell. There are vents in the tray to allow smoke and gases to escape, but the vents will not allow water or foam inside the tray. Think of a battery failure inside the tray like a winddriven fire. One damaged cell gets uncontrol-

ing a wrecked electric vehicle, even if you don’t see fire or smoke. I have witnessed an electric vehicle go from not burning, to fully involved, within minutes. On the other hand, I have also seen this progression take several hours. Time starts the instant that the battery is damaged, not when you learn about the incident. When you respond to an EVemergency, you have to be dispatched, get out of the station and make it to the scene. You may not know the exact timeline, so it’s always best practice to be safe and wear your gear. It is also important to consider how hot an EV fire actually is. An electric vehicle that is in thermal runaway can burn as hot as 2700°F

Now, you’re on scene, have your gear on, and you’re ready to put some water on the fire. What’s best? In my experience, I have found the use of an EVblanket to be vitally important. The EVblanket is designed to limit the oxygen available to the fire, but the burning batteries create their own oxygen so the blanket itself will not extinguish the fire. Before deploying the blanket, you must knock down the fire on the inside of the vehicle just like you would on a traditional car fire. This step immediately begins cooling the car so that it will be less likely to burn through the blanket. Once the car is extinguished, throw the blanket over the vehicle. Make sure to throw the blanket high so that it is not damaged by sharp edges or parts of the vehicle that may be protruding. EV blankets, depending on the brand (Continued on page 80)

Being Prepared for EVFires...continued from page 78

and type, come in a variety of sizes. Depending on the brand of blanket that your department uses, your team may need to open up the blanket before use to mark the front, rear and center. Some brands of EVblankets have already marked the front and rear of the blanket for you, which would save you a step. Sometimes EV blankets are rectangular, rather than square, which can cause difficulty on scene if you have not previously marked them. Once the blanket is deployed and covering the car, tuck it under the vehicle to keep it from blowing up so that it will continue to limit the oxygen that the fire can use. It is very important to keep the blanket cool. The best way to do that is with the line you used to knock down the fire initially.

I also recommend, and have had great success with, an EVnozzle placed under the car with a second line. Again, you are not trying to put out the fire, you can’t. The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable. You do not really want to cool the battery too much because it will only prolong the incident. I recommend using an EVnozzle with low gallonage because it cools the battery while still allowing it to burn safely.

Using these tactics have been successful for us in the past. I am often asked about the time frame between extinguishing the fire and moving the car from the scene. Although there is no good way to determine with absolute certainty that it is completely safe to move the damaged vehicle, I do have a few tips and tricks that might help. The first, and most obvious, is that there is no visible sign of fire, including no evidence of smoke or off-gassing. Make sure, too, that you no longer hear the sounds of cells popping (sounds like popcorn in the microwave). In addition, it may be helpful to monitor the temperature reduction of the battery using a Thermal Imaging Camera. Although nothing is for certain, in my experience, my crew and I have been able to safely transport a damaged vehicle after a couple of hours. This may seem like a long, drawn-out event, but this method is much quicker than submerging the vehicle into a large, watertight container - a separate method of EVfirefighting that can take several days to weeks before the vehicle is safe and is not necessarily feasi-

ble in a crowded city or on the side of the interstate.

“The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable.”

Still, if you move too quickly then the threat of reignition is very great due to the stranded energy in the batteries. Stranded energy is when the batteries have not expelled all of their energy. Since the cells are already damaged, stranded energy in them creates a greater threat of reignition. This threat is why it is important that you escort the tow. If the car reignites while being towed, disconnect it from the tow truck so you don’t have two car fires. Knock down the fire and then continue the tow, Make sure to tell the tow yard management that the car you’re leaving with them is an electric vehicle.

Ultimately, the decisions you make on a fire scene belong to you and your department. These suggestions have worked for my department. We have had great successes when dealing with EVincidents using these strategies and tactics. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at EVGoat01@gmail.com.

Scrap Pile Fire

The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Wisteria Street, and the James Garrett and Sons Scrap Iron fora report of a fire. Firefighters arrived to find a large area of scrap burning but were able to contain it with several hoselines and lots of overhaul. Several tank loads of waterwere used to contain the fire to the immediate area.

-

Fire News photos by Ken Badger

2025 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) Conference

Fire Prevention Week 2024, observed from October 6 to 12, emphasizes the importance of fire safety education and awareness across communities. This annual event, sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), serves as a critical reminder of the dangers of fire and the necessary precautions to prevent it. This year’s theme focuses on “Cooking Safety Starts with You,” highlighting the significant role of safe cooking practices in reducing home fire incidents, as kitchenrelated fires remain a leading cause of household fires. Fire Prevention Week 2024 encourages families, schools, and organizations to actively engage in fire safety drills, learn about fire hazards, and understand how to respond effectively in the event of an emergency.

The importance of Fire Prevention Week in Emergency Management cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in reducing the risks associated with fires by promoting proactive safety measures and ensuring communities are well-prepared to handle fire-related emergencies. By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, this weeklong campaign supports the broader goals of Emergency Management, which include risk reduction, disaster readiness, and public safety. Fire Prevention Week not only educates the public but also reinforces the collaboration between emergency services, local governments, and the community in preventing fires and mitigating their impact, ultimately contributing to a safer, more resilient society.

The 2025 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA)

Conference is set to be a cornerstone event for emergency management professionals and first responders across the state. Scheduled from April 7 to April 11, 2025, at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, this conference will bring together experts, practitioners, and community leaders dedicated to enhancing New Jersey’s preparedness and response capabilities. The NJEPAConference is designed to deliver critical information, services, and skills to every community and first responder organization in the state.

Akey highlight of the 2025 NJEPAConference is the Call for Papers, which opens on September 1. This call invites professionals from across New Jersey to share their expertise and experiences. Whether you have developed unique training programs, managed significant incidents, or have innovative ideas for pre-planning and exercising, your contributions can help elevate the state’s collective emergency preparedness efforts. By presenting at the conference, you have the chance to influence and inspire your peers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the emergency management community.

We encourage you to consider presenting in Atlantic City next April by submitting your ideas through our Call for Papers! Together, we can advance our profession. Even if you don’t submit, we still look forward to seeing you at the conference.

Visit www.NJEPA.org for details and information as it develops.

Landscape Trailer Ablaze in Lawrence Twp.

Initial reports came in as a vehicle fire, but it turned out to be an open landscape trailerburning, along with assorted tools, equipment and surrounding brush. The Lawrence Township Fire Department responded on June 18, 2024, around 1647, to Hazelhurst Avenue. They arrived to find the area blanketed with smoke but no fire. Aquick search revealed the fire was off ZoarAvenue on the grounds of the old LavenderFarm. Uncertain how much waterwould be needed, first-due Rescue 202 laid 700 feet of five-inch hose from the front of the property down a dirt track to a position nearfire. Second-due Rescue 203 completed the split lay, dropping 500 feet of five-inch hose to the closest hydrant at Zoarand Hazelhurst. Flames were quickly knocked down and prevented from causing any significant damage to an adjacent enclosed trailer.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

Well, That Was a Busy Day

The day afterthe Fourth of July, firefighters keep busy with a mutual aid call, five alarm calls, one wire down call and a shed fire on Stevens State Park Road. Car52 arrived and reported a well involved 10 x 20 shed. Engine 59 and Tender57 arrived and quickly knocked down the fire with theirbumperline. Rescue 97 from Flanders assisted with overhaul. The were no injuries and the fire was underinvestigation by the Mt. Olive Police and Fire Marshals office.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Maloney

2-Alarmer Damages 3 Homes in Chambersburg

Amid an ongoing heat wave, Trenton firefighters fought a twoalarm blaze that damaged three homes in the Chambersburg section of the capital city on June 23, 2024. It was a hot and humid evening - the sixth consecutive day of temps in the 90swhen the fire was reported. Ladder2 arrived to heavy fire venting from Side D of ElmerStreet with flames impinging on Side B of Elmer(the left half of a similarduplex). The all hands signal was transmitted forthe balance of the first alarm. Due to the exposure problem a second alarm was quicky ordered. While the bulk of the fire was knocked down within 15 minutes, the blaze was not declared undercontrol until 1935. Among those who fought this blaze were several probationary firefighters working theirfirst shift since completing theiracademy training. - Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

Hamilton CarFire on Millville Avenue

The volunteerfire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale along with Hamilton Township Police and EMS responded to Millville Avenue and Rainbow Drive on June 29, 2024, fora report of a vehicle fire. Mays Landing Assistant Chief Ken Badger, Jr., arrived and blocked Millville Avenue south, while police blocked it north. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived and established

command fora single automobile fire with fire in the engine compartment extending to the driver's area and all occupants out of the vehicle. The first arriving Mays Landing engine’s crew stretched a line onto the fire while otherfirefighters opened up the trunk. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Ken Badger

Single Story House Fire in Bayville

Berkeley Township Fire Stations 17, 18 and 20, along with the FAST from Forked River, responded to Raymond Place in the Bayville section fora reported house fire. Crews arrived to a single-story, single-family home with moderate smoke showing and confirmed

the working fire. An offensive attack was initiated and crews were able to place the fire undercontrol 10 minutes afterarrival. Extensive overhaul was conducted to prevent furtherextension and all searches were negative. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Garbage Truck Fire Dumped to Extinguish

Asmall fire in a garbage truck created a big mess in Lawrence Township on June 25, 2024. The driverof the Interstate Waste Services truck was making his rounds when he noticed smoke emanating from the pile of garbage in the hopper. In an effort to save the truck itself, the driverdecided to dump the load of burning trash in the street. As he did, however, the tailgate rose and came in contact with overhead powerlines. Ironically, this all happened almost directly in front of the Slackwood Fire Company’s firehouse. Firefighters were alerted to the blaze at 0730 and PSE&Gwas requested to respond to deenergize the powerlines. A neighborhood resident already had a garden hose in service on the smoking pile when firefighters and PSE&Garrived. While the fire was quickly extinguished, the cleanup of the dumped trash from the street took several hours. - Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

ManchesterExteriorFire Quickly Taken Down

ManchesterFire companies were alerted of a reported house fire on Patrica Court on June 25, 2024. First arriving units had visible fire showing from the front of the home and a working fire was transmitted. The first two engines were able to get wateron the fire quickly and it was determined that the majority of the fire had

remained on the exteriorof the home. Extensive overhaul was conducted to ensure there was no extension into the interior. Amutual aid truck company from Joint Base McGuire responded to the scene to assist.

-

Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

Franklin Laundromat Destroyed by Fire

Two alarms were transmitted before a smoky blaze in a laundromat was brought undercontrol in Franklin Township on June 15, 2024. The fire was on Franklin Boulevard and both Franklin District 3 fire companies were dispatched, togetherwith Somerset Fire for RITduties. Heavy smoke was issuing from the laundromat, located on one end of a strip mall, when first-due crews arrived. Asecond alarm was quickly struck, calling Middlebush, New Brunswick,

North Brunswick, Bridgewaterand Bound Brook to the scene. An aggressive interiorattack was initiated, with heavy fire conditions reported throughout the laundromat and above the drop ceiling. Multiple aerial ladders were raised and crews were sent to vent the roof. The laundromat was gutted but only minimal damage was reported to the carwash located next door.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

Pleasantville CarFire

On July 25, 2024, units were dispatched fora reported vehicle fire. On arrival, a well involved vehicle was found on the street in a residential neighborhood. Engine 1’s crew led off with a single 1-3/4 inch line. The fire was quickly extinguished and was underinvestigation. There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photo by Eric ‘Doc’Moran

LDH Hose Task Force Drills in EHT

The Egg HarborTownship (EHT) Fire Department along with the Atlantic County Large DiameterHose Task Force held a joint drill on June 26, 2024, at the Offshore Industrial Park in EHT. The purpose of the drill was to confirm that the watersystem would be sufficient to feed three aerial devices. A2000-gpm engine was put on the hydrant with all otherengines being 1500gpm, one 1250gpm two stage, with another2000gpm at the end supplying the aerials. Acritique at the end of the drill determined 1250-1500gpm was obtained. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe, Wallace Bakely and Ken Badger

Monroe Celebrates 75th Anniversary

The Monroe Township Station 51 in Middlesex County celebrated their75th anniversary on August 10, 2024, undersunny skies with 24 fire departments participating in an inspection parade judged by the New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Association.

- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe

Multi-Car MVA

Rolloverin

Toms River

On July 20, 2024, Toms RiverFire Stations 25 and 26, along with Silverton EMS, were dispatched to the intersection of Clifton and Batchelorfora reported multi-car MVAwith a rollover. Engine 2501 arrived to one vehicle on its side with no entrapment. Powerwas secured to all vehicles and units remained on scene while the tow company uprighted the car.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Paramus Firefighters Fight House Fire

On May 16, 2024, Paramus crews were dispatched to the area of Terhune Avenue and East Midland Avenue fora reported fire. On arrival, companies found a fully involved minibus adjacent to East Midland Avenue with the fire extending to a home. Asecond alarm

was requested bringing the remaining Paramus companies to the scene. Several hoselines were stretched as searches of the home were conducted, and the fire was quickly knocked down. The Bravo side of the home sustained fire damage. - Fire News

photo by Peter Danzo

Rochelle Park Bedroom Fire

In Rochelle Park, at around 2000 on June 16, 2024, the Rochelle Park Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire. On arrival, command reported a working fire on the second floorof a two-story private dwelling. Mutual aid was called from Maywood and Saddle Brook and additional mutual aid responded from Hackensack and Paramus. The fire was located in a bedroom on the second floor and at 2020 interiorcrews reported making good progress. No injuries were reported, and the fire was placed undercontrol at 2042. - Fire News photos by

Pete Danzo

25 Firefighters SufferHeat

Exhaustion – None Transported

Heavy fire heavily damaged a home in Ridgefield Park on July 21, 2024. The Ridgefield Park Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on College Place. On arrival Chief Lynn reported heavy fire out the 2nd floorwindows of a 2.5 story frame and requested a 2nd alarm. E-1 advanced a 2” handline to the 2nd floorand started attacking the fire as primary searches were conducted. Additional hand lines were put into operation as the fire spread to the attic. With all company’s heavily engaged, a 3rd alarm was requested to the scene. The main body of fire was knocked down. However, crews continued to open up, chasing hot spots and pockets of fire. Over25 firefighters were evaluated and treated by EMS forheat exhaustion on the scene, due to high humidity but none required transportation. The cause of the fire is undetermined.

- Fire News photo by Pete Danzo

Hackensack Handles

2nd

Story Fire

On August 4, 2024, Hackensack Fire Dispatch transmitted an alarm fora smoke condition in a house on Railroad Avenue. On arrival, companies investigated and reported to command a heavy smoke condition on the second floor. Engine 5 immediately stretched a handline into the building as command transmitted the working fire, bringing a FASTfrom Teaneck and a truck company from Englewood. Crews quickly located the fire in a second-floorbedroom closet and extinguished all visible fire. No injuries were reported and the fire was quickly placed undercontrol. It is reported that the homeownerhad a small fire involving a dorm style refrigeratorwhich they had extinguished. It is believed that the fire unknowingly had spread to the wall in the closet.

- Fire News photos by Pete Danzo

Egg HarborBoarded Up House Fire

The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Washington Avenue on April 21, 2024, fora report of a structure fire. Cardiff Assistant Chief William Danz III arrived on the scene first, reported a working fire, established command, and requested additional assistance from the Bargaintown Fire Company. Command had the first-due Cardiff engine take a position on the bravo side. Farmington Engine 1543 used a nearby hydrant and stretched an LDH to supply the scene. Multiple hand-

lines were deployed. The house was boarded up and along with contents was a total loss. The fire was investigated by the EHTFD Fire Investigatorand the EHTPolice Cause and Origin unit. Also responding was Atlantic City Electric, South Jersey Gas, EHT EMS, and the Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary, and investigators from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety along with theirarson sniffing dog.

- Fire News photos by Cindy Badger

MATHENYMOTOR TRUCK COMPANYAND HUDSON VALLEYFIRE EQUIPMENT, LLC, NEW JERSEYDEALER ASSIGNMENTS

Seagrave is excited to announce that effective this date, New Jersey will now be represented by two existing Seagrave dealers for Sales, Service and Parts in addition to our factory service facility in East Brunswick.

Matheny Motor Truck Company, established in 1922, has served the transportation needs of businesses, along with local and state government agencies for over 100 years. Tim and Monica Matheny are the fourth-generation owners of Matheny Motor Truck Company and leads their team that operates out of multiple locations in West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, Kentucky, Kansas, and Florida.

Matheny Motor Truck Company (dba Matheny Fire & Emergency) is the authorized representative for Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC for the following areas:

Delaware: All counties

Maryland: All counties

New Jersey: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem.

Matheny Motor Truck Company consists of four Divisions: Automotive Dealerships, Commercial Truck Dealerships, Towing & Equipment Dealerships, and Fire & Emergency Dealerships. For more information about Matheny Fire & Emergency, please call 877378-2781 or email us at firetrucks@mathenymotors.com

Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC is located in Putnam County, New York, Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC (HVFE) is a company that offers a variety of services to help you enhance the purchase, construction, and delivery of your new emergency vehicle. With a commitment to excellence and safety, we provide sales and maintenance solutions that ensure communities are equipped with the best emergency vehicles available.

Hudson Valley Fire Equipment, LLC (HVFE) is the authorized representative for Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC for the Tri-State Area:

New York: Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester

Connecticut: Fairfield

New Jersey: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, Warren

Having a partnership with Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC enables us to offer a full line of apparatus to fit your fire department’s needs.

CFSI SYMPOSIUM AND DINNER

The 35th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner is expected to draw over 1,500 fire and emergency services leaders from across the country. Participants will attend seminars, conduct meetings with their members of Congress and network with their colleagues.

The Symposium and Dinner will be held on February 12 and 13, 2025 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC.

At the conclusion of the two-day event, you will join together in the Washington Hilton ballroom to hear national political leaders paying tribute to the dedication and commitment of our nation's firefighters and emergency services personnel.

Individual tickets are $475 and include a seat at the dinner as well as access to all seminars. If you order before 12/1/24, the Early Bird Sale ticket price is $425. If purchasing 10 or more tickets, please see the table level options on our website. Order tickets at https://cfsi .org/annual-symposium-and-dinner/tickets/.

us at update@cfsi.org if you have any questions.National Fire and Emergency Services Awards Applications OPEN; Apply NOW. Award Applications Are Due by October30, 2024.

The four awards include:

Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. Sponsored by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, the award recognizes leaders at the national level for their contributions in advocating for our nation's fire and emergency services in the areas of public education, prevention, and response.

The Congressional Fire Services is accepting applications for its 2025 national fire service leadership awards. The four awards, which will be presented at the 2025 National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on February 13, 2025, recognize individuals and organizations for leadership in fire and life safety. CFSI will cover the travel costs for the recipients to attend the dinner program. Please contact

CFSI/Masimo Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Awards Program

Sponsored by CFSI and Masimo, the award recognizes fire departments for innovations in the delivery of emergency medical services.

Dr. Anne W. Phillips Award for Leadership in Fire Safety Education Sponsored by CFSI and the International Fire Service Training Association, the award honors public safety educators for outstanding achievements in fire safety education.

SenatorPaul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award. Sponsored by CFSI, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, VFIS, and ULFire Safety Research Institute, the award recognizes organizations for implementing programs that address firefighter health and safety, using NFFF's 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives as the award criteria.

Up Close & Personal

The LowerBank VolunteerFire Company of Washington Township in Burlington County dedicated theirnew engine on June 22, 2024, to long time Member Paul Seybold and family.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Somers Point Chief Michael Sweeny and Atlantic County Fire Photographer, Dennis Sharpe, at the Chapman Boulevard fire.

- Fire News photo by Cindy Badger

New Cardiff Assistant Chief Craig Thompson at a Coolidge Avenue fire on June 27, 2024.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Wildwood firefighter Ed Neill with Wildwood’s classic 1970s Mack MB at the CooperRiverMuster on August 4, 2024.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Cardiff Fire Company’s ‘JJ’Fricano at the EHTlive burn on May 9, 2024. Congratulations to JJ and his wife for being parents forthe second time and extra congratulations to his father, Cardiff Safety Officer, John Fricano, on becoming a grandfatherforthe second time. The Fricano family owns Story Book Land at Black Horse Pike in Cardiff.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Burn Foundation Artists Combine Talents for2024 Artwork

For the 44th Year of his partnership with the BURN FOUNDATION and its annual fundraiser at the NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ, artist Joseph M. Getsinger (semi-retired) has teamed up with very talented 3D Artist, Jarryd Ley. They are creating something very unique for this year’s Burn Foundation fundraiser at the September Fireman’s Convention. Over the years Joe’s work has depicted many aspects of emergency response featuring firefighters and their equipment, their history, and various evolutions of the first responder experience. The 2024 painting will be a combination of young and more seasoned art talent. Jarryd Ley posed for last year’s painting, “LASTRUN,” in his grandfather’s gear to honor him. His grandfather was Donald ‘Pops’Ley, Sr., who was a lifetime member of the Woodbury Heights Fire Department, Mayor, Councilman, Vice President of First Fidelity Bank and Korean War veteran serving in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant. Sadly, his grandfather passed last year.

This year’s art project ‘Slaying the Beast’is sponsored in full by David Russell, President, FIRE & SAFETYSERVICES Ltd., South Plainfield, NJ, and Pierce Manufacturing. David Russell and his father William Russell have supported the Burn Foundation and the artist for over 25 years. David Russell has also financed the printing of the raffle tickets.

With the aid of (retired) Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr., Fire Chief Philip Drangula and members of the Cinnaminson Fire Department the photo shoot was completed with a Pierce aerial fire truck. This photoshoot was aided by Drone Photographer and Deputy Chief Ira Schonfeld and Firefighter Amanda Mahler who was on the top of the aerial fire truck during the photoshoot attended and directed by Getsinger.

The Burn Foundation was established in 1973 to provide fundraising for the emerging specialty for the treatment of burn injuries. The foundation was formed with the mission to aid burn patients, their families and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four regional Burn Centers at Crozer Chester Medical Center, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Temple University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, their patients, families, and staff, have all benefited from contributions raised at various events throughout the years. But none is more important than the annual NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood. Joe

Getsinger’s art has been a major influence in the foundation’s successful fundraising efforts in Wildwood since 1980.

This year’s sponsor for the Collector Pins is First Harvest Credit Union. Vice President Kenneth Barnshaw was proud to sponsor the

collector pin for the fifth year to support the work of the Burn Foundation. From its original roots in Camden County as South Jersey Federal Credit Union, it has expanded its presence all the way to the Jersey Shore. Ten fullservice locations in New Jersey include the corporate office in Deptford, NJ with branches in Camden, Glassboro, Pleasantville, Voorhees, Mt. Laurel and Vineland. In addition, they serve their members in Philadelphia and Williamsport, PA.

John McCann, Administrator for the Burn Foundation, reported that last year over $14,800 was raised with the donation raffle of the’Last Run’Giclee canvas and 24 signed and numbered limited-edition prints.

Burn Foundation, 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, PA 19103 supports the greater Delaware Valley through education and support of five regional Burn Centers. You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.or or call 215-545-3816. Special thanks to Administrator John McCann for his support and dedication through the years.

OSHAUPDATE

As you are aware, the New York State Association of Fire Districts, under the leadership of 2nd Vice President David Dennison has been following the progress of OSHA’s proposed amendment of the Fire Brigade Standard, which would create a new Emergency Response Standard (29 CFR Part 1910 [Docket No. OSHA-2007-0073] RIN 1218-AC91 Emergency Response Standard].

Mr. Dennison has led a committee on which other association officers, directors and staff have participated, who have, requested that OSHA reconsider the proposed rule. The committee and other fire service groups have been successful in obtaining two extensions of the comment period. This has resulted in many comments being submitted to OSHAwhich you can read on its webpage.

Most recently, OSHAhas published a notice of a public hearing in the Federal Register [2024-16126.pdf (govinfo.gov)]. It has noted that: “OSHAis scheduling an informal public hearing on its proposed rule ‘Emergency Response Standard.’The public hearing will begin November 12, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time.”.

It notes further:“Informal public hearing: The hearing will be held virtually and will begin on November 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. ET. If necessary, the hearing will continue from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. ET, On subsequent weekdays.”

Preliminary information on how to participate in the public hearing is also provided on the site:

“Notice of Intention to Appear (NOITA). ANOITAmust be submitted electronically at https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking. Follow the instructions online for making electronic submissions. Those who file a NOITAmust also submit electronic copies of all documents that they intend to use or reference during their testimony. Information about how and when to submit these materials will be provided at the time of registration.”

We will continue to keep our membership informed on this important matter.

GSPCarFire Doused

The volunteerfire companies of Farmington and Bargaintown from the Egg HarborTownship Fire Department responded to Garden State Parkway at milepost 38.1 southbound on August 2, 2024, fora report of a vehicle fire. Firefighters arrived to find a fully involved vehicle that was quickly brought undercontrol. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

1974 - Triboro Association

The photo is of the 1974 Triboro Association Fire Apparatus and Ambulance Squads. The Triboro Association consisted of New Milford, Oradell and RiverEdge Fire and Ambulance departments. -

FC; Submitted by

FD

Photo by Paul Kaske, New Milford

Glen M. Thorsen, ex-Chief Fairfield

CarCrashes Into Home in Holiday City

On August 2, 2024, Manitou Park and Pinewald PioneerFire Companies responded to a home on Spanish Wells in Holiday City foran MVAwith a carinto a house. Units arrived to a single vehicle MVAinto a single-story home. Nearby residences were evacuated, as the carhad struck the homes gas meterand gas was leaking. The Ocean County EMS CoordinatorMAB was requested to shelterevacuees and the Station 20 Technical Rescue Team responded to shore up the garage.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti