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PATERSON, NJ - At approximately 10:30 AM on March 4th, a fire unit radioed in to dispatch that a large column was showing from the area of Market Street and Madison Ave. Units arrived shortly to find two large two-and-a-half-story frame OMDs at 798 Madison Avenue with heavy fire in the narrow space between the buildings and extending into both structures on multiple floors. A second alarm was immediately transmitted. ■S ee full story on p a g e 2

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Paterson Third A larm Leaves 33 D isplaced and One Injured PATERSON, NJ - At approx imately 10:30 AM on March 4th, a fire unit radioed in to dispatch that a large column was showing from the area o f Market Street and M adison Ave. Units arrived shortly to find two large two-and-ahalf-story frame OM D s " at 798 M adison Avenue J ump to f iie # with heavy fire in 0 3 0 6 2 6 1 4 9 the narrow space between the build ings and extending into both structures on multiple floors. A second alarm was immediately transmitted. An interior attack and search was initiated, but conditions dete riorated and all members were withdrawn. A captain received second degree burns and was transported to Saint Joseph’ s M edical Center. Reports were being received that there was p os sibly a child unaccounted for and still inside. A third alarm was sounded as companies re-entered. Locating nobody, members were withdrawn again. 798 M adison Ave. was heav ily involved on all floors; 796 also had fire on all floors. Two tower ladders, one ladder pipe, and several hand lines were oper ating to hold the flames to the two structures. A collapse zone was established on the “ B ”side o f the main fire building. Flames broke through the ro o f and solar panels collapsed in. Heavy smoke blan keted the area. By noon, m ost o f the visible flames had been extin guished.

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM The fire apparently originated in the basement o f 798 M adison Avenue and quickly spread up ward. The cause is being investi gated. Thirty three residents were reported to have been left h om e less. The fire captain was the only burn injury; three residents were

transported with smoke inhalation. The missing child was corrected to be an older resident that was lo cated outside the structures un harmed. Clifton and Passaic assisted at the scene.

- BILL TOMPKINS

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 33 No. 5 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmas ter: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1Ard more Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except o f reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the at tention o f the newspaper during the same month o f publi cation. Printed in Canada.

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P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc. Appoints Mark Aronberg as Vice President of Rescue 1 Manasquan, NJ - March 24, 2026 - P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc. (PLCB), a leading manufacturer o f emergency and specialty vehicles, is proud to announce the appointment o f Mark Aronberg as Vice President o f Res cue 1, the company’ s division dedi cated to specialized rescue apparatus. Mark Aronberg brings more than four decades o f distinguished experience in emergency services, spanning both frontline operations and executive leadership. He began his career as an EMT/paramedic in New York City in 1982 and rose through the ranks o f the Fire D e partment o f the City o f New York (FDNY), ultimately serving for 12 years as Assistant Fire Com m is sioner o f Fleet Services. Through out his 42-year career, Aronberg oversaw one o f the nation’ s largest municipal emergency vehicle fleets comprising more than 3,000 emer gency vehicles while leading key initiatives focused on improving safety, operational efficiency, and apparatus performance. Widely respected throughout the industry, Aronberg has been rec ognized for his leadership, technical expertise and unwavering commit ment to first responders. His expe rience extends across operations, fleet management, apparatus design and emergency responses at some o f the most significant incidents in m odem history. In this role, Aron berg will lead the strategic direction and continued growth o f the Rescue 1brand, spearheading product inno vation, expanding market presence and strengthening relationships across the fire and rescue industry. “ Mark is one o f the most re spected leaders in the emergency services industry and we are thrilled to welcome him to Rescue 1,”said Deb Thomson, President o f PLCB. “ His decades o f frontline and lead ership experience, combined with his deep understanding o f fleet op erations and apparatus design, make him uniquely qualified to lead this next chapter as we continue to grow and elevate the Rescue 1 brand.” Rescue 1 has long been recog nized as a premier and tmsted man-

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ufacturer o f custom walk-around and walk-in rescue vehicles, pur pose-built to meet the demanding needs o f fire and rescue departments across the United States. With a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, durability and field-driven design, the brand has built a strong reputa tion among departments seeking highly specialized apparatus. Under Aronberg’ s leadership. Rescue 1 is entering a new era defined by strate gic growth, innovation and cus tomer-driven design. The division is actively revitalizing its product portfolio, with a renewed focus on enhancing its walk-in and walkaround rescue platforms through m odem engineering, expanded op erational capabilities and improved functionality tailored to the evolv ing needs o f today’ s fire and rescue professionals. “I am honored to join RL. Cus tom and lead the Rescue 1 divi sion,”said Aronberg. “ Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the critical role that well-designed, re liable apparatus plays in supporting first responders. Rescue 1 has an in credible foundation and reputation in the fire and rescue industry and I’ m excited to build on that legacy. I look forward to partnering closely with departments to deliver innova tive, mission-driven vehicles that address the evolving needs o f the industry while supporting the criti cal work they perform every day.” With a renewed vision and ex perienced leadership in place. Res cue 1 is well-positioned to build on its strong foundation and accelerate its growth across the fire and rescue industry. Backed by a commitment to innovation, quality craftsmanship and customer partnership, the divi sion will continue delivering pur pose-built apparatus that empower first responders to perform their mission safely, effectively and with confidence.

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ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS FIRE DEPARTMENT

ENGLEWOOD, NJ - As part of the East Bergen High Angle Rescue Team, the Englewood Cliffs Fire Department responded to an in cident along the icy cliffs beneath Fort Lee Historic Park on Jan uary 28th at temperatures close to 10 degrees. The Palisades Interstate Parkway Police were supported by the operation. The Cliffside Park Fire Department, Closter Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Corp., Edgewater Fire Department, Englewood Cliffs Fire Department, Fairview Fire Department, Fort Lee Fire Department, and Ridgefield Fire Department are among the various agencies whose trained personnel comprise the East Bergen High Angle Rescue Team.

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

2 -Responder Newspaper 1Aidmore Street •New Windsor, NY 12553

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EXECUTIVE STAFF

PUBLISHER

JOCBelsitO (Joe@1stResponderNews.com) GENERAL MANAGER

In memory of those who gave all

Kathy Ronsilli (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com) MANAGING EDITOR

Lindsey Palmer (Undsey@1stResponderNews.com)

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1 stResponderNews.com) NEW JERSEY EDITOR

emergency responders lost in the line of duty

Ron Jeffers OPERATIONAL MANAGER

Nicholas BelsitO (Nicholas@1stResponderNews.com) DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION

Arizona: J. Hank Hester, 70 Rank: Firefighter/Equipment Operator Incident Date: September 8,2025 Death Date: September 8, 2025 Fire Department: Southwest Area Incident

2025. The cause o f death has yet to be determined.

R ick B illin gs (Cartoon)

Management Team 3 Initial Summary: On the afternoon o f September 8,

Arizona: Brenna Kulikowski, 31 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: Sept. 14,2025 Death Date: Sept. 14,2025 Fire Department: Timber Mesa Fire and Medical

B o b L o n g (Cartoon)

2025, Firefighter/Equipment Operator J. Hank Hester

District

collapsed while performing suppression repair at the Dragon Bravo Fire near the Grand Canyon North Rim in

Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic Brenna Ku-

Arizona. Line paramedics performed CPR at the scene, but Firefighter/Equipment Operator Hester could not be

were in an ambulance returning to their station after

resuscitated. The suspected cause o f death is a cardio

While on State Route 260, another vehicle traveling in the other direction collided head-on with the ambu

(Rich@ 1stResponder.com)

EDITORIAL STAFF

COLUMNISTS

John M a leck y (Apparatus, Bookshelf) D id ym u s M cH u gh (Chaplain’s Corner) Fernando V illicana (Chaplain’s Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS Keith Addie •Adam Alberti •Bill Auth •Shannon Bock •David Bums •John W Carr •Steven Catena •Don Colamsso •Robert Connell •Damien Danis •Joseph Diehl •Doug Fenichel •Joseph Getsinger •Alan Hoffman •Todd Hollritt •Richard

vascular emergency.

Huff •Roman Isaryk Jr. •Bob Krane •Nicholas Lenczyk •Chuck Lowe •Justin Mattes •Richard Maxwell •Pete Monaco •Judson Moore •Sylvie Mulvaney • Mike Nowacki •Martin Pelta •Anthony Razzano •Lucas Richardson •John Rieth • Frank Robinson •EJ Rode •Frank Saia •Bob Sherman Jr. •Ken Snyder •Conni Spellman •Charlie Tentas •Bill Tompkins •Chris Tompkins •Justin Watrel •Eu gene Weber Jr. •James Wood Sr.

_________ EDITORIAL INFORMATION__________ Join our team o f correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper w elcom es submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. I f using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wash to have returned. Publisher resemes the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

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ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:

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Georgia: Preston Fant, 53 Rank: Master Firefighter Incident Date: Sep. 8,2025 Death Date: Sep. 8, 2025 Fire Department: DeKalb County Fire Rescue Initial Summary: At approximately 1:30 p.m. on Sep tember 8, 2025, Master Firefighter Preston Fant along with other units from DeKalb County Fire Rescue re sponded to a warehouse fire in Lithonia, Georgia. Mas ter Firefighter Fant was injured approximately 15

our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $48 per year.

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GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder N ews’ graphics team wall work with you on your adver tisement free o f charge. Addition ally, we offer a complete marketing department for all o f your printed communications, Inc. needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else deliv ers the high quality work at our competitive prices. As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scan ning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP C olor LaserJet 8500 to produce this highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.

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leaving a hospital from an interfacility transport.

lance. Firefighter/Paramedic Kulikowski and Fire fighter/EMT Thompson were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver o f the other vehicle also passed away from injuries sustained in the colli sion. Investigation into the incident continues.

Arizona: Damon Thompson, 21 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: Sept. 14,2025 Death Date: Sept. 14,2025 Fire Department: Timber Mesa Fire and Medical

minutes into the interior attack. Rescue operations and lifesaving efforts began immediately on scene. Master

District

Firefighter Fant was transported to the hospital, where

and Firefighter/Paramedic Brenna Kulikowski were in an ambulance returning to their station after leaving a

he later succumbed to his injuries.

CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you d o not receive your papers, please contact

likowski and Firefighter/EMT Damon Thompson

Texas: Stephen Scott, 62 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: Sept. 14, 2025 Death Date: Sept. 17,2025 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: On September 14, 2025, Firefighter/Paramedic Stephen Scott suffered a medical emergency while transporting a patient to a local hospi tal. Firefighter/Paramedic Scott was admitted to the same hospital and subsequently transported by Life Flight to a medical center where, despite surgery and continued treatment, he passed away on September 17,

Initial Summary: Firefighter/EMT Damon Thompson

hospital from an interfacility transport. While on State Route 260, another vehicle traveling in the other direc tion collided head-on with the ambulance. Firefighter/EMT Thompson and Firefighter/Paramedic Kulikowski were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver o f the other vehicle also passed away from injuries sustained in the collision. Investigation into the incident continues.

Ist Responder Newspaper -NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 7

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

RETIRED FIRST RESPONDER-ARTIST FILLING UP THE WALLS OF BUFF CLUB UPS

DOWNS N o te s fro m R o n Jeffers

The Jersey City G ong Club has its own Pablo Picasso. John “Rince”Rinciari, 73, is a retired Yonkers Emergency Service Unit police officer. Like many blue bloods, his first love is the fire serv ice. Rince grew up in the Bronx and hung out at some o f the busiest fire companies in the country back in what is known as the “War Years” period. As a youth, he started out as an FDNY explorer and then an aux iliary fireman. While taking civil service tests, the Yonkers PD was the first to call and he took the job. He served the city for 32-years. In his retirement, he couldn't get the cop and fire business out o f his blood. He had been a member o f numerous bag pipe groups; how ever, due to shoulder injuries from the jo b he could no longer play. His interest turned to art, that he ex celled in high school. His projects include paintings and leather work. Rince said he got involved with art to satisfy his “creative needs,”and he finds it “soothing.” The artist buys rolls o f leather, draws out a shape, and paints his creations. This has included a dis play o f six helmet front pieces replicating Jersey City fire com pa nies. That is on display in the club's kitchen. Also on display are leather handmade replicas o f the FDJC's dress uniform patch and the Gong Club's 75th anniversary patch. He has also restored two old helmets and made Engine 7 front pieces for them. They are also on display in the kitchen. The club's quarters was the former home o f this engine company. Presently, the Gong Club quarters and canteen truck are lo cated on the ground floor and the department's credit unit occupies the second-floor o f the Summit Av enue building. So, there are always local firefighters going in and out. Additional artwork on display in cludes a painting o f the “Gong Wagon”canteen truck operating at a winter scene fire. In addition, there is a painting o f 13 club mem bers sitting along the club's long kitchen table. The Gong Club's ver sion o f “The Last Supper”! Rince's latest project has been a painting o f a Jersey City incident command scene from a photo that appeared on the cover o f the Au gust, 2025, edition o f Fire Engi neering magazine. The second-alarm fire occurred in Feb ruary, 2024, and the photo was taken by a member o f the Gong Club crew. This painting is on dis play on a kitchen wall, and the cover photo is framed and on dis play in the hallway, along with other Jersey City cover photos.

RON JEFFERS

Gong Club member John "Rince" Rinciari puts the final touch on his painting that resembles a recent Fire Engineering magazine cover photo of a Jersey City fire. Some of his other creations can be seen behind him on the walls. Rince takes pride in his work and enjoys promoting the city fire de partment and the club. He found out about the fire bu ff organization from a member that grew up with him and chased fire trucks. Rince visited the club during some events and joined when he was 72. An old rookie! John Rinciari, who retired with the rank o f detective, is a survivor o f five different 9/11 related ill nesses. He and his ESU members reported to the World Trade Center on 9/11 after the towers had fallen. His crew was assigned to a rescue/recovery m ission by the NYPD. In his later years, he is happy to be back in a firehouse again re sponding to fires and working on the canteen truck, and making friends with firefighters in the area, including Jersey City and North Hudson. DOWNS: An overnight fire dis placed 24 residents from two Getty av. buildings in Paterson, March 2nd. One firefighter was taken to a local hospital with a concussion from falling debris, according to news reports. UPS: The Carteret Fire Depart ment has acquired new equipment purchased with a $114,000 grant from the Carteret Business Partner ship. Twenty-five year old gasolinepow ered rescue tools are being replaced. DOWNS: Firefighters responded to a fire on Berkshire av. in Pater son, March 2nd, and found fire burning in the basement o f a 1.5story wood-frame home. Prelimi nary reports to firefighters indicated that the fire many have been set by an EDP barricaded inside the

dwelling. The 25-year-old man gave himself up peacefully to police after several hours o f negotiations. The 25-year-old also reportedly stabbed both o f his parents in the home, ac cording to the Daily Voice. The fa ther was stabbed in the chest and the mother was stabbed in the hand. Due to a fire in progress on Getty av., there were mutual aid fire com panies that responded to this inci dent. UPS: Scott Clarke has been pro m oted to battalion ch ief in Eliza beth. Francis Fischler, Jr. is the department's new fire captain. DOWNS: One person died as the result o f a fire in a commercial building on Colt St. in Irvington, March 2nd. The Newark and Nutley FD HazMat units were called in to the scene for a release o f som e 1,000-gallons o f motor oil, accord ing to news reports. UPS: Chris Gilm ore has been promoted to fire lieutenant in En glewood. DOWNS: A huge explosion lev eled a commercial building on Heron Dr., in the Swedesboro sec tion o f Logan Twp., March 4th. Five people were taken to the hospital, with four listed in critical condition. The business processed coca butter for the chocolate industry, accord ing to the Daily Dispatch. The building contained propane tanks. UPS: On the morning o f March 6th, Englew ood firefighters rescued three occupants o f a burning twostory apartment building on Corian der Way. Firefighters used portable ladders to make the rescues, as flames blocked the residents way out, according to Independent On line News. All three were taken to Englew ood M.C. for evaluation.

DOWNS: A large fire consumed a dwelling on Lagund Dr. in Egg Harbor Twp., March 2nd. N o one was home at the time, but police of ficers were able to rescue a family dog, according to WPVI-TV. One firefighter was treated for a minor injury at the scene. UPS: In February, the NJ Forest Fire Service deployed a specialized task force to the Texas Panhandle to assist with w ild fire efforts as the state faced widespread fire activity. The ten-person crew brought one Type 4 engine, 3 Type 6 engines and a pickup truck, according to the Daily Dispatch. DOWNS: A 3-alarm fire involv ing two M adison av. dwellings in Paterson displaced a total o f 22 peo ple, March 4th, according to NorthJersey.com. A fire captain was taken to St. Joseph's UMC with seconddegree bums. Three residents suf fered from smoke inhalation. UPS: In March, Jersey City Deputy Fire C h ief Loren Hart was named acting Deputy Public Safety Director, serving as the number two under Public Safety Director An thony Ambrose. DOWNS: On the morning o f March 7th, Newark Engine 10 was involved in a MVA at S. 17th St. & Avon av., while responding to a multiple-alarm fire. The driver o f the auto and one firefighter were transported to University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and the rig was out-of-service, ac cording to reports. The fire, on Dover St., displaced 18 residents. UPS: Newly promoted battalion chiefs in Paterson are Saul Cintron and Kenneth Jeltema. DOWNS: In March, Montclair Truck Co. 2 was officially “ browned

out.” The minimum manpower dropped to 14 members per shift, according to a local firefighters foundation Facebook post. UPS: On March 22nd, the Town ship o f W yckoff officials, family and friends, celebrated Firefighter Joe Landi's 100th birthday. He join ed the department in 1947. He worked as deputy fire marshal for the W yckoff Fire Prevention Bureau for 20-years. He now resides at the NJ Firemen's H om e in Boonton. The celebration was held at Protec tion Fire Co. 1. The highlight o f the celebration was taking FF Landi for a ride in Tower 241 for a NJ State Police helicopter flyover. DOWNS: Fire raced through a row o f townhouses on Old York Rd, in Branchburg, March 18th. Twentyfour units were impacted. At least 65 residents were displaced, but there were no serious injuries, ac cording to WABC-TV. UPS: Newly promoted fire cap tains in Paterson are Israel Montes Jr., Frank Morrell, Luis Sanchez III and James Benfatti. DOWNS: On March 21st, fire fighters in E gg Harbor Twp. battled a fire involving numerous solar pan els on the r o o f o f the ShopRite on English Creek av. Cardiff and Bargaintown V.F.C. units operated for two hours at the scene, according to Shore Local News Magazine. UPS: In March, ex-Fire C hief A1 Evangelista was recognized for his 50-years o f service with the Pompton Lakes Fire Department. DOWNS: One person was killed in a dwelling fire on Green Grove av. in Keyport, March 24th. A dog was rescued and revived according to reports.

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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Fast-M oving Fire Engulfs Twin D w elling in Edgew ater Park EDGEWATER PARK, NJ - At approximately 3:14 p.m. on March 20, 2026, the Burlington County Fire Alarm R oom dispatched the Beverly Fire Depart ment and automatic aid companies to 1026 Mt. Holly Road for the report o f a dwelling fire. Initial reports were that the front porch was on fire. Beverly Fire Chief George Meredith arrived and reported heavy fire showing from division A o f a three-story, wood-framed, twin dwelling. This well-advanced fire was rapidly spreading throughout the dwelling and to the attached dwelling on the D side. An addi tional report was that there might be occupants still inside. Due to the heavy volume o f fire. Chief Meredith ordered the first due engine company to initiate the fire attack with their deck gun as to knock down the main body o f fire to allow crews to do a search and also slow the spread o f fire into the exposure dwelling. Further reports proved that all occupants and pets were out o f the houses. The fire was well-advanced and the structural integrity o f the build ing deteriorated, so they transi tioned to a defensive attack. Aerials were put to work as fire consumed the upper floors o f both dwellings. There were no injuries reported. FRANK SAIA

- FRANK SAIA

Riverside FD truckies make a vent cut in the roof of the exposure dwelling at the working fire at 1026-1028 Mt. Holly Road, Edgewater Park, NJ on March 20, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Companies operating to extinguish the fire and ventilate at the working at 1026-1028 Mt. Holly Road, Edgewater Park, NJ on March 20, 2026.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 11

HONORS & PROMOTIONS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Honors & Promotions”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@l stResponderNews.com.

RIDGEWOOD PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS FMBA LOCAL 47.

Ridgewood Firefighters Handle U tility Emergency Involving Downed Power Lines

BERLIN FIRE COMPANY N0.1

The Berlin Fire Company congratulates Captain Josh Barclay on his promotion to EMS Supervisor with the Voorhees Fire Department. Captain Barclay has been a significant asset to the Berlin Fire Company and to public safety throughout the region. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others exemplify the core values of both the fire and EMS services. Many in the community may recognize Josh from his ongoing work as an EMT with Berlin EMS, where he continues to provide care for local residents daily. The Berlin Fire Company expresses pride in Captain Barclay’s achieve ment and extends best wishes for continued success in his new role.

When Engine 35 and Rescue 42 were sent to a dump truck incident involving downed electrical wires on January 9, members of Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 were diverted from responding to a fire alarm. While A Platoon was traveling to the initial assignment, the incident took place. Upon arrival, firefighters found a dump truck en tangled in multiple primary electrical lines, with a utility pole snapped at its base and suspended over the roadway. Fire and police officials erected a safety cordon and restricted both vehicle and pedestrian traffic to secure the area. PSE&G was requested to respond and address the electrical hazard. Fire officials reminded the public to report hazardous condi tions to 911 and to never touch or approach downed wires, as all lines should be treated as energized.

EAST WINDSOR VOL. FIRE CO. #1

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Two-Alarm Fire Q uickly Contained in Englewood ENGLEWOOD, NJ - Englewood and mutual aid units made a quick stop on a two-alarm fire on February 10th. Companies responded to 15 W. Forest Ave. shortly before 9:00 PM and observed a smoke condition in the attic of a frame dwelling. The second alarm was sounded as one line was stretched and members soon had water on the fire. Some companies were soon released as a second dispatch was received as companies started picking up.

East Windsor Vol. Fire Co. #1 Responds to Early Morning Wires Down Call in Cranbury Manor February 16, 2026 - At approximately 5:25 a.m., Station 42 of East Windsor Vol. Fire Co. #1 was dispatched to a reported wires down incident in the Cranbury Manor section of the township. Upon arrival, crews secured the area and assessed the situation to ensure public safety. The incident was sub sequently turned over to JCP&L upon their arrival, as utility personnel worked to restore power to affected residents. Chief 42, Deputy 42, and Tower 42 responded to the scene, demonstrating a coordinated effort to address the hazard during the early morning hours. No injuries were reported, and the situation was safely managed through the collabora tive response of fire and utility services.

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. Sponsors Tribute to 1st Responders of 9/11 This year the Bum Foundation artist Joseph Getinger and 3-D artist Jarryd Ley are creating an image as a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives twentyfive years ago on 9-11-2001. FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES, Ltd. Pres ident David Russell will again be the proud sponsor o f the Bum Founda tion this year. David has consistently supported the Bum Foundation and Joe for over 25 years, plus the print ing costs o f each year’ s raffle tickets for the annual NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood. In 2024 David also sponsored the special edition collector pins that contain the fundraising image. These have become very popular and are very much in demand. This year we are also celebrat ing the third anniversary o f artist Jarryd Ley o f West Deptford, N.J., who has joined forces with Getsinger to create a unique 3-D fundraising image o f Getsinger’ s artwork for this convention. The title for this year’ s image will be: "9/11

- Because They Climbed."

In early January, Getsinger en visioned an image to honor those first responders who sacrificed their lives on 9/11/2001 during the terror ist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. 2026 marks the 25th anniversary o f that tragic event. Joe contacted Fire Chief Stephen Christinzio and Deputy Chief Anton Florwitz o f Woodbury Fleights Fire Department who were proud to be a part o f Getsinger’ s creation, espe cially since it’ s a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives. A few photoshoots were scheduled and interrupted by the snowstorms in February, but with the aid o f 3-D artist Jarryd Ley, it fi nally was successful. We would like to thank the firefighters who partic ipated in the photoshoots, which in cluded (left to right in the picture): Anton Florwitz - Deputy Chief, Steve Christinzio - Chief, Firefight ers: Abi Sherm, Alex Florwitz, Austin Crew, Chase Nana, Chuckie Crompton, Emma Florwitz, Charles

J ump to file # 0 3 1 0 2 6 1 2 6

til 30 i ^ Cannon, and Assistant Chief David Misilewich. A special note o f interest at Woodbury Fleights Fire Depart ment: If you visit there, ask for a tour o f their front entrance and stair way. Assistant Chief David M is ilewich has stairway walls and second floor decorated with framed artwork o f Joe Getsinger’ s fire fighter prints from throughout the years. There are also a couple of canvas prints, and an original acrylic painting titled “ Fire and Ice”dis played there. You can also visit the Glouces ter County Fire Academy at 200 County Flouse Road in Clarksboro, N.J. to see other Getsinger’ s art prints. Fie recently donated his orig inal paintings o f “ Fire Academy I” and “ Fire Academy 2”to their new addition, which expanded their training ability and capacity. The two artists, Getsinger and Ley, will develop the final image to be used for the print and a 3D model that will be displayed at the New Jersey Firemen’ s Convention in Wildwood, N.J. on September 11 and 12, 2026. It will be utilized as part o f the fundraiser for the Bum Foundation table on stage in the fire equipment expo tent area. The num ber one framed Giclee’canvas print of “ 9/11 - Because They Climbed” will be the top prize at the raffle along with 25 limited edition prints signed by both Joe Getsinger and Jarryd Ley. Due to health issues, this will be the last year Getsinger will be creating an image for the Bum Foundation after 46 years o f dedi cated service to this worthy cause. The Bum Foundation is lo cated at 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, Pa. 19082. Its mission supports the bum patient and burn care communities in the tristate area. You can donate online at: www.bumfoundation.org or call (215) 545-3816.

PROVIDED

Fire Academy I - painting donated

PROVIDED PROVIDED

WHFD and Artists, (L to R): Asst. Chief David Misilewich, Chief Steve Christinzio, Artist Joseph Getsinger and 3-D Artist Jarryd Ley.

Fire Academy 2

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 13

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board”feature please upload them on our website www.lRBN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

FLORENCE TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

February 12,2026 — Several members of the Florence Township Fire Department traveled to Camden to pay tribute to fallen firefighter Howard Bennett. Standing alongside firefighters from departments across the region, members gathered in support and remembrance to honor a life dedicated to service, courage, and sacrifice. The cer emony reflected the strength and unity of the fire service community during times of loss. The Florence Township Fire Department ex tends its deepest condolences to Firefighter Bennett’s family, friends, and department as they mourn his passing.

RON JEFFERS

A fast-moving fire raced up the rear of an Eighth St. dwelling, in Fairview, and through the roof just be fore midnight on March 28th. All occupants escaped the structure with one suffering from burn injuries.

East Bergen F ire C om panies B a ttle F a irv ie w Blaze FAIRVIEW, NJ - A roaring fire quickly consum ed a duplex apart ment building on Eighth Street shortly before midnight, March 28th, bringing in numerous mutual aid fire companies to the scene. Arriving fire units found a heavy fire condition in the rear o f the two-story structure, over garages, and quickly called for mu tual aid to assist in firefighting o p erations. A large colum n o f smoke was now forming above the build ing, visible for miles. The first due units assisted in evacuating seven occupants. One person was suffer ing from bums, reportedly from trying to extinguish the flames.

J um p t o f i l e # 0 3 3 0 2 6 1 5 9

3! After the occupants were a c counted for, an aggressive fire at tack began. Fire rapidly spread to all floors and through the roof. An evacuation o f the building was or dered. Part o f the r o o f later c o l lapsed. The defensive attack included four ladder pipes. Two were set up in front o f the building by Fairview and Cliffside Park. Ladder com pa nies from Fort Lee and Palisades Park drove their rigs into narrow alleyways to set up their ladder

pipes on the rear section o f the structure. Hand-lines were used around the stmcture as well. The stubborn fire took several hours to contain. Som e mutual aid com pa nies were released around 3:00 a.m., and others remained for over haul. It was reported that there were about 60 firefighters on the scene. Fire companies that operated at the scene, not already mentioned, came from Englewood, E nglew ood Cliffs, Leonia and Ridgefield. The Teaneck B ox 54 Club canteen was also on hand for rehab purposes.

- RON JEFFERS

WORKING FACES FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPT & EM S

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

February 2, 2026 — The Franklin Township Fire Department & EMS announced with heavy hearts its condolences to members of Glen Gardner Volunteer Fire Company Station 12 following the passing of past Chief John P. Migliaccio. Fire officials expressed their thoughts and prayers to the Migliaccio family and the Glen Gardner fire community during this difficult time, honoring the chief’s years of leadership, dedication, and service to his depart ment and community. Colleagues remembered him as a re spected leader whose commitment to the fire service left a lasting impact. “Rest easy, Chief — we’ll take it from here,” the department shared in tribute.

w w w .1rbn.com

FRANK SAIA

Camden Deputy Chief Frank Sandrock directs the fireground at an all hands fire at 2715 Federal Street, Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

DRILLS FROM AROUND THE STATE T o see y ou r D rills in the n ew sp ap er u p load them on ou r w eb site m w . ls tR e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m or em ail them to L in d se y @ lstR e sp o n d e rN e w s.c o m .

February 19, 2026 — Chatham Borough Volunteer Fire Department Association announced that three of its members recently completed the Ice Rescue Technician course hosted by New Vernon Volunteer Fire Department and instructed by Rescue Products International Inc. The specialized training fo cused on cold-water and ice rescue techniques, equipping firefighters with the skills necessary to safely respond to emergencies involving frozen lakes and waterways. Participants practiced self-res cue, victim extrication, rope operations, and coordinated team response methods under realistic win ter conditions. Department officials commended the members for their commitment to professional development and ongoing training, emphasizing that advanced preparation enhances both responder safety and the department’s ability to serve the community effectively during winter emergencies.

AUDUBON FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHATHAM BOROUGH VOL FIRE DEPT. ASSOC.

Members of the Audubon Fire Department recently participated in live fire evolutions at the West Chester Fire Training Center. The training focused on Vent-Enter-Search (VES) techniques, as well as hose line advancement and search procedures. Live evolution training allows firefighters to stay current with modern techniques and methods essential to today’s firefighting practices. To date, the Audubon Fire Department has responded to 138 calls for serv ice this year and remains ready to serve the residents of Audubon around the clock.

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 15

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PAGE 16

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

Frozen Hydrants Complicate Paterson Second-Alarm PATERSON, NJ - With tem peratures at about 12-degrees with a strong breeze, Paterson firefight ers faced a challenging blaze that caused extensive damage to a home on January 31st. At approximately 9:00 P.M., fire units were dispatched to 71 Totowa Ave. Eleavy fire on the first floor o f a two-and-a-halfstory frame dwelling with heavy smoke throughout was showing on arrival. Two lines were stretched as trucks opened up. Conditions deteriorated as water supply issues became apparent. A second alarm was transmitted as flames spread to the second floor and attic. M embers worked on frozen hydrants as additional water supply was established. All companies were withdrawn as fire broke through the roof in the rear. Ladder land 2 tower ladders were set up on the “A ”side and Engine 5 operated a deck gun from an adjoining driveway.

J ump t o f i l e # 0 2 0 4 2 6 1 3 2

Flames consum ed the r o o f from the rear to the front o f the dwelling. PSE& G was requested due to the fire being gas fed. A de quate water supply was secured and progress on the fire was being made. Eleavy smoke blanketed the front o f the structure and ice formed throughout the area. DPW with salt was requested and the North Jersey Fire Canteen set up a tent with heaters and served fire fighters as they took a break. Companies remained on the scene for many hours. N o serious in juries were reported and the expo sure buildings were not damaged. The cause is under investigation.

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

M oonachie Warehouse Fire Goes to Three Alarm s MOONACHIE, NJ -A smoky fire that may have been sparked by a sm oldering piece o f foam was kept in check by sprinklers and doused by firefighters at a plant in Moonachie. At 5:01 PM on February 27th, the M oonachie Fire Department was dispatched to 1 State Street for a re ported water flow alarm. “The first arriv ing police officer reported heavy smoke coming from the building. As first-due units ar rived, they immediately transmit ted a second alarm, bringing additional fire units to the scene from surrounding towns,” the M oonachie Fire Department re ported. The building was a one-story structure on State Street at Woodbridge Inoac USA, which manu factures polyurethane foam for air filtration, sound insulation, and medical applications. The sprin kler system was activated, and lines were stretched to feed the system as crews began an aggres sive interior attack, using multi ple handlines to knock down the main body o f fire. “Additional alarms were transmitted, bringing more m u tual aid to the scene to assist with ventilation and overhaul. Once the fire was knocked down, com panies rotated through rehab. Members operated forklifts in the building to m ove foam product around to com plete extinguish ment. The cause o f the fire is cur rently under investigation,”the M oonachie Fire Department re ported. Mutual aid at the scene and for coverage included firefighters from Carlstadt, Rutherford, Ridgefield Park, East Rutherford, Wood-Ridge, kittle Ferry, South Hackensack, Wallington, Hasbrouck Heights, and Hackensack. Companies covering M oonachie headquarters came from Rochelle Park, Garfield, and Maywood. Paramus Company 3 was spe cial-called for its ventilation trailer fan to assist in clearing smoke from the building. The M oonachie First A id & Rescue Squad and the Department o f Public Works also assisted on scene.

DAMIEN DANIS

- DAMIEN DANIS

DAMIEN DANIS

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 19

S eeing p e o p le th ro u g h G od’s eye s Chaplain’s Corner D id y m u s M c H u g h

Many o f us see people through our earthly eyes that may be cov ered with bias and prejudices, either learned or taught but there may be a rare treat o f seeing people as God sees them. I have been around people who have assisted me with my vision problem. Starting when I was young, I had people remove some scales from my eyes. I have had the pleasure o f breaking bread with oth ers and had heart to heart talks with them. We explored commonalities and understood why we have our differences. We were smart enough and brave enough to accept each other as people that were created by God. But still, there were other peo ple that we did not recognize and treat like invisible, but that was taught by society. Some were home less, disabled or mentally ill, that was putting some scales back on the eyes. I admit that some generaliza tions were easier to deal with during my EMS days, which did not change the fact that I was still ignor ing their humanity and the fact that we had the same Creator. When my daughter was bom with disabilities and all her chal lenges, I finally saw and started to understand challenges o f that popu lation. We need to see them as peo ple. They may have their challenges, but they are still people, who have thoughts, feelings, ideas, and a sense o f humor. My daughter removed so many scales from my eyes. I now try to speak out and find ways to assist them. I was invited to preach in a homeless shelter and feed in another Shelter. I got to sit down and know the men. I listened to their stories o f misfortune, drug use, and current challenges. I realized that if I made different decisions, I could have been in the shelters. The men, who became my friends, help me see them and care about them and they took more scales off my eyes. One time I was working in the

hospital and got called to work with a woman in detox, who decided to punch out a window with mesh in it. I originally saw a person that I might have ignored prior. A s we were talk ing, I listened to this woman and there was so much o f her life that could have been from my life. A s we continued to talk, more scales fell from my eyes, and I had the ability to have God's view o f a beautiful woman. I got a chance to see some one in the beauty that G od sees all His children. So many o f my scales fell off. God does not see color or differ ences, but He sees someone that He has made plans for, that He has won derfully made in His image. The first thing that we need to do is to see others with the heart and eyes that God wants us to have. Some people say that we are not to be social workers, but we are to care for, feed, clothe, and visit our brothers and sisters. We should start to care for some one by acknowledging their exis tence. Look at them eye to eye and really see them. Listen to their sto ries. You may find parts o f yourself in them or understand more o f their thinking or behaviors. I understand that some people may not want to go into shelters be cause many o f them are unsafe. There are also some people who may be wealthy, but they wish to remain homeless and live on the streets. We may see people where they are, instead o f their prior experience or expertise. There may be someone that you came across who was men tally or spiritually crushed, after a traumatic event. They might not have access or knowledge about where to get help to allow them to heal. We may have been hurt by one person and then make a grand gener alization and then the other person may do the same thing, make a gen eralization o f one group because o f one or a few knuckleheads. Is that fair and do you like it when someone does it to you? When we use gener alizations and pass that onto others, we may start may problems in the communities. Should we treat each person with dignity? The person that you see as homeless now may have served hon orably as an emergency responder or in the military. You may never find out. They may never divulge the in formation with you. We may look at someone with a

physical disability and try to figure out what is different about them, but have you asked yourself how the per son is looking at you? Are they look ing at you, trying to figure out what's up with because o f your words, ac tions, or attitude? What about disabil ities that are not visible? There may be people that are dif ferent from you, but that person can be your best friend. I f you only talk to people who are just like you that would be like eating a lifetime o f nothing but vanilla ice cream. I have friends o f different reli gions. I do not apologize about my religion, and they should not have to for their beliefs. We accept each other just as we are. I have friends that go through many different challenges. Why do they have to go through them? Only G od knows. Many times, it can be preparing them for some work that He has for them in the future. You have your own challenges that you have to go through and have already gone through. A disease or condition should not identify a person. The individual may have cancer, but his name is not Can cer Ken and someone with diabetes is not Diabetes Dan. They are just Ken and Dan. Sure you may not know what to say but just treat them like any other person. You may offer to assist the person but don't be hurt if they decide that they can do the task without you. Through getting to know strangers, I have developed friends from what people tell me are o f so many different religions, ethnic back grounds, regions, races etc.. I do not try to pay attention to those things, I just look at their hearts. Jesus stated that we are to love our neighbors. He did not say that they are to be like us. Take that as a hint. Open your mind and your heart. I f you don't you will be missing a lot and miss out on getting to know some really great people. I f you don't love your neighbor, that w ill be something else that you are not lis tening to G od on. Smile, say hello to someone you don't know. I saw a shirt that indi cated that a stranger is a friend that we have not met yet. Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didy mus-mchugh. com

Read m ore a rtic le s fro m a ll o f ou r c o lu m n is ts o n lin e !

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FRANK SAIA

Cherry Hill Firefighters Extinguish School Bus Fire CHERRY HILL, NJ - At a few minutes after 4:00 p.m. on Feb ruary 16,2026, Cherry Hill Ladder Company 1324 and Engine Company 13-5 were dispatched to a vehicle fire on Rt. 70 at Cuthbert Blvd in Cherry Hill, NJ. Ladder 1324 was first to ar rive and had a small school bus on fire. They took a position to block the traffic lane and protect the incoming engine company while operating. Engine 13-5 arrived and stretched a 1 3/4" hose line and extinguished the fire. The driver of the school bus apparently experienced a problem with the bus and pulled over to the shoulder of Rt. 70 which is a busy roadway, especially during rush hour. Reportedly, there were no children on the school bus and no injuries were reported.

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

NEW JERSEY GIGS

NEW JERSEY MEMORIES

If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ G igs”feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ Memories”feature, please upload them to our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

RON JEFFERS

Fair Lawn Battalion Chief Jeff Goldberg responds to incidents in a 2022 Chevy Tahoe.

RON JEFFERS

Clark Engine 1 was assigned a 1950 American La France 1000-gpm/300-gwt pumper.

RON JEFFERS

Garfield uses this Ford Explorer as a spare chief's unit.

RON JEFFERS

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May, 2026

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

MIDDLESEX COUNTY FIRE RUFFS

WYCKOFF VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

V ehicle Crashes into W yckoff Home WYCKOFF, NJ - The Wyckoff fire department responded to a residential property after a vehicle left the roadway and struck the side of the home on February 20th. No injuries or entrapment were reported at the scene. Crews conducted an inspection of the structure and remained on scene while awaiting the arrival of the duty tow service.

Deadly 3 Alarm House Fire in Rahway Under Investigation RAHWAY, NJ - On Tuesday, February 24th at approximately 8:50 p.m., the Rahway Fire D e partment was dispatched to the 500 block o f West Scott Avenue for a smoke condition. As units called, service dispatch quickly advised them that multiple callers were stating they saw flames from the house and that there were re portedly people trapped inside. Units arrived to find a twostory, wood-frame residential structure and transmitted the working fire along with a 2nd alarm, stating heavy fire on the Charlie side. Engine 1 arrived first due, took the hydrant on the cross street, and stretched the line to the front door. Ladder 1 immediately

Jump to fiie # 0 2 2 6 2 6 1 5 2

began primaries upon arrival. As com panies had multiple hand lines getting water in the fire, they still had a heavy volum e o f fire on multiple sides o f the home, as w ell as on both floors, and members had to bail out o f the structure. Evacuation tones were also sounded along with the trans m ission o f the 3rd alarm. Units continued knocking the fire down with multiple hand lines until con ditions improved. Com panies operating on the Charlie side found fire in the base ment and quickly knocked it down

as units resumed primary searches on D ivision 1. As they were con ducting the primaries, they located spongy floors in Division 1. At the 50-minute mark, the fire remained doubtful, and a PAR was con ducted. At the 80-minute mark, the fire was marked as probable will hold. Companies operated for multiple hours to fully extinguish the fire and conduct overhaul. F ollow ing the blaze, a body was discovered in the basement o f the home. Three Rahway firefight ers were transported to local h os pitals for treatment o f minor injuries and later released.

- DANIEL MIZAK JR

MASSIMO MACERI

Multiple Trucks Catch Fire Behind Rochelle Park Business ROCHELLE PARK, NJ - At approximately 11:34 P.M. on March 18th, the Rochelle Park Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Woodland Ave for a report of a truck fire. Chief 330 arrived shortly after dispatch and confirmed multiple trucks well-involved in the rear. Crews from Engine 1 quickly deployed hand lines to the fire while Engine 2 gained access to the rear of the building off of Central Ave to check for ex posure issues. The fire was placed under control within min utes by Rochelle Park and Maywood FD Units. Bergen County Hazmat and Fire investigators were also requested to the scene. Five vehicles were reported to be damaged due to the blaze. The fire is still under investigation at this time.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY FIRE RUFFS

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

WE’RE LOADING UP THE BOX! ON THE BOOK SHELF b y John M alecky

W E’ RE LOADING UP THE BOX: A Pictorial Collection of Firefighting In New York City By Matt Daly Available from: FSP Books 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, MAO 1749 1-800-522-8528 Email: supportfSYire-policeems.com www. fire-police-ems. com Price: $42.50 This is a hard cover coffee table book measuring 9 inches by 12 inches. It has 208 pages. The author is a fire photographer with

May, 2026

PAGE 23

BUDDY SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “ Buddy Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

a prestigious background which started off in 1977. In 1981, he was named the Official Photogra pher for the FDNY Emerald Soci ety. I will let you read the rest of his accomplishments. The book is loaded with both black and white, as well as color photos mostly of fire scenes. The contents consist of a Dedication, Forward, Acknowl edgements, a Special Thanks, About the Photographer, NYC Fire Department Terminology and photos from 1978 through 2010 followed by an index. The title o f the book is a dispatcher’ s term given to the responding assign ment based on the number o f phone calls and pull boxes that were activated about the address o f the incident indicating a “ work ing fire.”The Forward was written by Vince Dunne, retired deputy chief and author o f educational textbooks. Not much more can be said about this excellent book that should be o f interest o f anyone who follow s the FDNY and pho tographs at fire scenes.

FRANK SAIA

FF Tom Miller, FF Michael Stief, and Lt. Anthony DeAngelo of the Washington Twp. FD at a working fire in Glassboro, NJ on February 12, 2026.

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May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

BAYONNE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Quick Response Controls House Fire in Bayonne BAYONNE, NJ - On March 21st at 1:34 P.M., the Bayonne Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 232 Prospect Av enue. Upon arrival, fire companies located a small fire on the second floor of the residence. Crews acted swiftly, deploying one handline to extinguish the flames. The fire was brought under control at 2:03 P.M. No injuries were reported. Officials have stated that the cause of the fire remains under investi gation, but is not believed to be suspicious.

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

FRANK SAIA

Camden FF Tyreek Jones removes a pet cat from the exposure dwelling at an all hands fire at 2715 Federal Street, Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

A 2.5" handline is used to knock the main body of fire in the original fire building as the ladder company makes its way to the roof at the second alarm fire at 820 N. 5th Street, Camden, NJ on February 28,2026.

Camden Fire Rips Through Rowhome and Spreads to Two Others CAMDEN, NJ - At approxi mately 8:41 P.M. on February 28, 2026, the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom trans mitted a box for the Camden Fire D e partment for the re port o f a dwelling fire at 5th and Grant Streets. The Alarm R oom received a couple o f calls on it with a report that a female might still be inside. Fadder Co. 1 was first to ar rive and reported heavy smoke showing from a two-story, middle o f the row, ordinary constructed dwelling. Fleavy smoke quickly turned into heavy fire. Engine Co. 1 was the first due engine and im mediately stretched a handline to hit the main body o f fire and to stop the fire from running the front porches. Fadder C.o 1 forced entry, performed primary searches, and went to the r oof as fire quickly spread to the second floor and into the roof area. Battalion C hief 2, Michael Miller, ordered an additional en gine and truck due to fire spread ing to the attached B and D exposures. At approximately 8:57 P.M., the second alarm was trans mitted. As other com panies ar rived, additional handlines were stretched to knock down the main body o f fire and to attack the fire that spread into the exposures. The original fire building had partial collapses and companies knocked the fire from a defensive position. The fire was declared probable at approximately 9:17 P.M., and several com panies re mained on location for extended overhaul operations.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

Camden R-1 FF David Goree opens up the front porch ceiling to ac cess the fire that was spreading across the porches at the second alarm fire at 820 N. 5th Street, Camden, NJ on February, 28, 2026.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 25

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little B ig Guys feature, please upload them on our website www. 1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

In Franklin Township (Somerset County), the East Millstone Fire Company in Millstone Valley operates Utility 28. It is a 2019 Ford F-350 XL, 4x4 /Duramag by Monmouth Truck. It has a Power Stroke diesel engine. Features and equipment include Dover roll-up compartment doors, two Code 3 spotlights, a thermal imaging camera, rope bag, flare kit, irons, an AED, a tool kit, chainsaw, bottled water, battery cables and a rehab canopy.

PARAMUS FIRE COMPANY 2

M ulti-Level Fire Prompts Second Alarm in Paramus PARAMUS, NJ - Paramus Fire Company 2 responded as the first-due engine to a reported structure fire on January 1st, handling its first call of 2026. A second alert was sent due to the circumstances upon arrival, with three levels of the structure reported to be on fire. Engine 2 workers stretched and ran three hoselines, starting a fire attack and assisting with suppression efforts. Paramus Fire Company 2 operated alongside mutual aid partners as crews worked to control the fire.

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Franklin Township, Utility 28, 2019 Ford E-350XL, 4x4/Duramag by Monmouth Truck.

ORADELL FIRE DEPARTMENT

HACKENSACK, NJ - During a water rescue at the Court Street Bridge in Hackensack on January 7th, the Oradell Fire Department provided mutual to the Hackensack Fire Department. A car veered off the road and into the Hackensack River, prompting the dispatch of crews. Firefighters entered the water and found the stranded driver. Crews secured the patient and worked to shift them to a safer place for removal using safety lines and flotation gear.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Right/rear of Franklin Township's Utility 28 shows lift gate.

PAGE 26

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

THEN & NOW If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Then & Now”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

RON JEFFERS

In Woodbridge Township, Iselin District 11 used this 2001 Pierce Enforcer 1500gpm/750-gwt rescue-pumper.

Former Iselin's Engine 11-1 was acquired by the Jersey City Fire Department in 2025, and it is now designated reserve Engine 24. This rescue-pumper is being used by Squad Co. 4, which has been out of service for an extended period of time due to an MVA with a truck. Engine 24 operated at a three-alarm fire on Summit Avenue where three people were rescued, with two rescued via aerial ladder, March 11th.

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PAGE 27

Physical Fitness, TOAC and CPAT JOSEPH CEA

It goes without saying that firefighters must be physically fit in order to do the job. The typical weight of turnout gear with a cylinder is 80 pounds. Now add in any hand tools that firefighters carry not to mention a charged hose line, ladders etc.... and it’s easy to see why being in shape in paramount. Of course, being in shape is relative to each firefighter and involves A LOT of factors. Adequate exercise, proper nutrition and even proper management of health issues such as diabetes are all part of keeping yourself ready to do the job when called upon. Because being physically pre pared is so varied from fire fighter to firefighter and from firehouse to firehouse instead of discussing how to stay in shape this article will focus on training benchmarks. The first is the Task Oriented Air Con sumption (TOAC). For both volunteers and career fire fighters this is one of the first yardsticks to measure whether or not someone will be a successful firefighter. This is solely due to the fact that candidates will be wear ing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and “on air” which for some can be a daunting experience. TOAC usually starts out by having prospective firefighters participate in a “breathe down” which is simply wear ing an SCBA and breathing normally while simply walking in a low stress environment. This is done to get firefighters used to breathing with an SCBA and attached regulator but also to measure how long it takes a firefighter to use all the air within a cylinder to gauge and possibly change how to correctly breathe through an SCBA. On the day of the TOAC test every firefighter will first meet with an EMT to have their vi tals checked. Because there is a real health and physical in

jury risk any vital sign outside the acceptable range will result in not taking the exam - PE RIOD! Each firefighter will also meet to have their vitals checked after completion of the eight stages. Here are the TOAC stages in order: Hose Carry - carrying a 50 ft long high-rise pack (2.5in) up three flights of stairs. Hose stretch/pull - pulling a 50 ft hose line (1.75in) 75ft and pulling a same size hose line 50 ft around a stationary object Tool Lift/Carry - taking tools off a shelf and walking them back and forth 75 ft and putting them back on a shelf

CPAT also has eight stages but they are not 100% identical. Here are the CPAT stages in order: Stair Climb - With an addi tional 25lbs (75lbs total) candi dates have to walk a stair mill. The first 20 seconds are a warmup at 50 stairs/min at which time candidates can hold the handrail. Once the three-minute climb starts the rate is increased to 60 stairs/min and the handrail cannot be used. Hose Pull - Pulling a 1.75 in hose line 200ft. navigating around a barrel. This is the ONLY stage where a candidate can run.

Ladder Raise - Raising a lad der using the halyard in a hand over hand fashion

Tool Lift/Carry - taking tools off a shelf and walking them back and forth 75 ft and putting them back on a shelf

Forcible Entry - Using a sledgehammer striking a tire ten times

Ladder Raise - Raising a 24ft ladder using the halyard in a hand over hand fashion

Search - Enter a maze and using a left- or right-handed search navigate 65 ft in the dark with obstacles

Forcible Entry - Using a sledgehammer to hit a device until a buzzer/light is set off

Rescue - Drag a 1651b man nequin 75ft Ceiling Breach/Pull - Push up 60lbs (3x) and pull down 80lbs (5x) using a pike pole - 2 sets Each firefighter has a shadow that walks along to ensure their safety, monitor their air and provide positive encourage ment along the way. Here is the link to the Erie County (NY) T

https ://www.yout ube. com/watc h?v=IRo2SnrR9cg This link is for the worksheet used when taking the exam: https://drive.google.com/drive/ u/0/folders/1 Wi Egrgl3h05CO5l EUFzYy9xjHs4nUzJ The second physical fitness lit mus test is generally reserved for those firefighters that have chosen to make the fire service their career. The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) certainly lives up to its name. Like TOAC the tasks for each are laid out in the order a fire fighter can expect to have to complete them from arrival time on the fireground. The

turnout gear while in CPAT the required PPE is a helmet, gloves and long pants with a 501b weight vest simulating the weight of turnout gear. There are also similarities be tween the two not only in the events but in the administra tion of the test. For starters the firefighter/candidate will have an EMT take their vitals taken before and after the test, will also have an escort to monitor any potential health concerns, ensure the parameters of the

test are adhered to and also to provide positive encourage ment. The best advice for TOAC is simply RELAX and breathe! You will do great if you stay calm with the SCBA attached. As far as the CPAT having failed and then passed the dif ference was training on a stair mill with weights. The rest of CPAT is easy if you have your “sea legs” after the stair mill. Good Luck and stay safe!

WORKING FACES I f you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

Search - Enter a dark maze with obstacles Rescue - Drag a 1651b man nequin 35ft. Ceiling Breach/Pull - Push up 60lbs (3x) and pull down 80lbs (5x) using a pike pole - 4 sets An important note - The stair climb lasts three minutes and twenty seconds while all other stages are one minute in dura tion. Running is not permitted with the exception of the hose pull event. There are 85 ft be tween each event. See this link for a more detailed video de scription: https://www.youtube.com/watch 7v=wh3EoE1yJnQ While the TOAC emphasizes completing firefighter tasks while breathing through an SCBA, the CPAT simply under scores a firefighter’s physical ability to complete common firefighter tasks. This is distin guished in that the TOAC is not timed whereas the CPAT is a strict 10 min and 20 seconds. Another difference is with TOAC you are wearing full

FRANK SAIA

Westmont FF Ryan Finnegan assists with overhauling the first floor at this Westmont worker on March 3, 2026.

PAGE 28

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

EASTAMPTON FIRE-RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Eastampton Fire-Rescue Department members spent a Monday evening focusing on training after a thoughtful visit from the Social Club of Smithville Greene, whose members delivered snacks and treats for the crew. Following the visit, firefighters conducted their annual SCBA refresher training, which included both classroom instruction and hands-on practical evolutions. Members reviewed air management, equipment operation, and safety procedures before applying those lessons in controlled training scenarios.

RAYONNE OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Scrap M etal Fire in Bayonne Contained W ithout Injuries; Cause Under Investigation BAYONNE, NJ - On March 5th at approximately 6:30 p.m., the Bayonne Fire Department was dispatched to EM R Metal R ecy cling, located at 85 East 2nd Street, follow ing reports o f a fire. Upon arrival, responding units discovered flames within a pile o f scrap metal. Firefighters deployed two aerial ladder pipes to bring the blaze under control. The fire was successfully con tained by 7:48 p.m. No injuries were reported. While the exact cause o f the fire remains under in vestigation, officials have stated that it is not considered suspi cious. The Eludson Regional Elealth C om m ission responded to the scene and conducted air quality

HOPE VOL FIRE DEPARTMENT - STATION 38

In February, members of the Hope Volunteer Fire Department - Station 38 completed their biennial CPR recertification, reinforcing their commitment to lifesaving skills and emergency readiness. The department thanked Lorrie Koonz of L3 Safety Training for facilitating the comprehensive training session. Firefighters are certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR and AED use for adults, children, and pediatric patients, ensuring they are prepared to respond effectively across a range of medical emergencies. In addition to CPR recertification, members participate in annual refreshers covering oxygen administration, Narcan deployment, and bloodborne pathogen protocols, maintaining high standards of care for the community they serve.

J ump t o f i l e #032226181

#4 3P monitoring in nearby residential areas. Authorities confirm ed that no environmental hazards were detected. Representatives from the com m ission also returned to the site the follow in g morning to carry out a follow-up investiga tion. Additional agencies present at the scene included the Bayonne P olice Department, the City o f Bayonne, the Bayonne Depart ment o f Public Works, Bayonne UEZ, and the Bayonne School District.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

www.1rbn.com

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 29

Firefighters Battle Late-Night Westmont Blaze H ADDON TWP, NJ - At ap proximately 11:31 P.M. on March 3, 2026, the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom dispatched the West mont Fire Company and neigh boring departments from C ollin gsw ood and Fladdonfield to 201 Virginia Avenue for the report o f a dwelling fire. Westmont Fire Chief, Dan Devitt, arrived and reported a working fire in a three-story, woodframe, single-fam ily dwelling. The working fire signal was transmitted, which brought in additional resources from the Pennsauken FD. C ollin gsw ood Squad C om pany 16 arrived as the first due en gine and stretched a 1 3/4" handline to the front door. As the firefighters prepared to make the push through the front door, fire vented from the Alpha and Bravo sides. Westmont and Fladdonfield ladder companies placed ground ladders to assist with ventilation and for egress. Additional hand lines were stretched to reinforce the initial attack line. The fire was placed under control in about 20 minutes.

- FRANK SAIA FRANK SAIA

Firefighters prepare to make the push through the front door as fire vents at this working fire at 201 Virginia Avenue, Haddon Twp, NJ on March 3, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Westmont firefighters prepare to place ground ladders to assist with venting the second floor at this working fire at 201 Virginia Avenue, Haddon Twp, NJ on March 3, 2026.

Westmont FF Logan Haynes vents the second floor at this West mont worker.

PAGE 30

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters o f the Emergency Sendees feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Members of Elizabeth Truck 3 stand by their vehicle with their battalion chief. (L to R): Captain D. Melachrinos, FFs M. Dye, M. Seider, W. Allen, H. Simpson and Battalion Chief L. Atienza.

FRANK SAIA

First arriving Battalion Chief, Michael Miller, managing fireground operations at a second alarm fire at 820 N. 5th Street, Camden, NJ on February 28, 2026.

BURUNGTON TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

On March 6th, members of the Burlington Township Fire Department had the opportunity to visit their local high school to participate in a Career Fair. The event provided a valuable platform to speak with students about the fire service, answer questions, and share insights into what it means to serve and protect the community. The department extended its appreciation to Burlington Township High School for the invitation and the opportunity to connect with the next generation. They expressed hope that their time with students helped inspire future firefighters and public servants.

GARFIELD FIRE COMPANY #5

The crew of Garfield Fire Company #5 after responding to a base ment fire in February. Thanks to their rapid response and coordi nated efforts, the fire was quickly brought under control.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 31

Vehicle News

RON JEFFERS

Millburn Tower 2 has been assigned a 2025 Spartan Gladiator EMFD model 1500- East Orange Engine Co. 5 has been assigned a 2025 Ferrara 1500-gpm/750-gwt unit. gpm/300-gwt/95-foot platform. The cab has six seats. Features include two cross-lay The raised roof cab has six seats. Features included a front end discharge and intake, beds, torque ladder storage space, scene lights, vision cameras on both sides of the two cross-lay beds, two rear discharge gates, low rear hose bed, deck gun and roll cab and one in the rear, plus an Akron Stream Master II monitor in the bucket. It was out tool trays. sold by Campbell Supply Co.

RON JEFFERS

Rahway has acquired this 2006 American La France 2000-gpm/500-gwt/110-foot quint that will be used as a back up aerial unit, designated Ladder 2. It saw original duty as Woodbridge Truck 6.

Scotch Plains Engine 1682 is a 2025 Pierce Saber 2000-gpm/1000-gwt model. The raised roof cab has six seats and a storage cabinet plus a transverse compartment for hooks. It has a front-end discharge and intake, three rear discharge gates with one being an LDH discharge, scene lights, rear vision camera, scene lights, and wheel well storage space. In addition, it has two hard suction hose on the chauffeur's side and one on the officer's side. It carries saws and fans. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

RON JEFFERS

Elizabeth TAC 1A is a 2025 Freightliner 108SD Plus 4WD/Skeeter model high water Elizabeth Engine Co. 6 has been assigned a 2025 Pierce Arrow XT 2000-gpm/750-gwt rescue unit. It has a rear lift gate supplied by Anthony Lift Gate, Inc. It was sold by pumper. The raised roof cab has six seats. The extended front bumper has a hose Fire & Safety Services. During the winter snow storms, firefighting equipment was tray, inlet and discharge gates and intersection warning lights. In addition, there are three cross-lay beds and two rear discharge gates. The rig also carries hard suction placed on the apparatus for access to hard to reach emergencies. hose. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

PAGE 32

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

VEHICLE NEWS

Rick Billings E on ts inferno....

RON JEFFERS

Newark has acquired this 2009 E-One 1500-gpm pumper which has been assigned to Engine Co. 19. It has three cross lay beds, two rear discharge gates, scene lights and two hard suction hose on the chauffeur's side and one on the officer's side. It saw original duty with the Mullica Hill Fire Company in Harmony Twp.

c 2026 by Rick Billings inst @jampony452

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RON JEFFERS

Newark Engine Co. 26 has been assigned a 2012 E-One Typhoon 1250-gpm/970-gwt/30-gft pumper that saw original duty in Holden, ME.

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PAGE 34

May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

RON JEFFERS

North Hudson firefighters set up hand lines to wet down vehicles that were burning on narrow 37th Street, Union City, after a cable bucket truck mishap with power lines down, across the street from City Hall, which lost power and trapped people in a stuck elevator.

Bucket Truck Mishap Creates Quite a Story T h e B e rg e n C o u n ty F ire m e n ’s H om e

PROVIDED

Executive Board 2026

UNION CITY, NJ - On the af ternoon o f March 16th, North Hud son dispatch sent a full assignment to Union City City Hall, 3715 Palisade av., for a report o f a possible electri cal fire. Additional information pro vided via radio stated that Fire Control was now receiving reports of people trapped in a City Hall eleva tor. Second Battalion Chief Mike Giacumbo arrived and gave a size up o f the building. Fire units were di rected around the comer, to the 300block o f 37th Street, where they found fire involving a cable bucket truck, with its boom up next to a pole. The mishap involved an over head power line that split and fell onto parked vehicles. A fire ensued which involved several parked cars and the bucket truck, located in the middle o f the street. The bucket driver had escaped from the truck and was later examined by city EMTs. Heavy, black smoke covered 37th Street, with only flames visible from the vehicles across the street from City Hall. Then a loud “ pop”as a tire on the cable truck let got and went up into the air. The loud noise stunned people that were exiting stores and dwellings in the area. Smoke was also blowing over the Bergenline Avenue business district, making more people aware o f the in cident. Firefighters stretched hose lines and began to wet down the burning vehicles. Public Service Electric was

m&I

J ump to f ile # 03 1926 131

also notified to respond. A working fire assignment was ordered by Deputy Chief Crossan for additional units as battalion chiefs took control o f divisions on the Palisade Avenue and New York Avenue sides o f the 300-block o f the street. A Union City fire inspector came across a woman that had just been struck by an auto on Bergenline Avenue, with a head injury, and called for city EMS. Also during this time. North Hudson Fire Control was dispatching units to other fire and emergency calls in the city and North Bergen. In addition, the mem bers o f Tower Ladder 3 extricated the people trapped in the City Hall elevator. Electrical power was interrupted in the area. It was reported that the quarters o f Safety 1, on 68th St. in Guttenberg, had lost power. Need less to say, the traffic in the area was clogged up due to numerous street closings in this business and school area; however, local residents are used to traffic jams. The bucket truck and several damaged parked autos had to be towed from the scene. Members o f the Fire Depart ment, Fire Control, Union City Po lice and EMS handled the incidents in a professional and safe manner.

- RON JEFFERS

A s s o c ia tio n F e b ru a ry M e e tin g a n d E n te rta in m e n t The members o f the Bergen County Firemen's H ome A ssocia tion met at the Harrington Park Fire House in January to start the stuffing o f the envelopes for the fundraising efforts o f the organi zation. M onies raised by the fundraiser help pay for entertain ment, refreshments, the food for the barbecue, gifts to the residents and for items that residents might need. We then held our first meeting o f the year on February 15th, 2026 and it has been a go od start to the year. Donations have been coming in from Bergen County Fire D e partment’ s and their continued generosity has been valued. We are trending ahead o f last year so far and appreciate the support we always get for our fundraiser. We talked about the plans for the upcoming summer barbecues, the Christmas Party in December, which seems to com e faster and faster and talking at the Bergen

Jump tu file # 0 3 1 9 2 6 1 3 4

-» County Caucus in August, where w e want to spread the word about our organization and the benefits joining the organization does. After the meeting was over, we joined the residents in the main hall to enjoy the entertainment and refreshments. Crow d pleaser, Gigi, entertained the residents with a series o f uplifting love songs and ballads during the Valentine’ s Day weekend. If you are interested in becom ing a member o f the Bergen County Firemen's H ome A ssocia tion, please attend one o f our meetings at the Boonton Firemen's H ome in Boonton, NJ. Our meet ings are in February, April, June, August, October and the first weekend in Decem ber for our An nual Holiday Party. If you would like to donate to

our organization, please send it to: BCFHA C/O Jeff Parma 277 Harriott Avenue Harrington Park, NJ 07640 Please make the checks out to the Bergen County Firemen's H om e Association Our 2026 Meeting Schedule: All our meetings at the home start at 12:00pm at the NJ State Firemen's H ome in Boonton, NJ: February 15th April 19th June 13th (June Barbecue) August 15th (August Barbe cue) October 18th December 6th (Annual Christ mas Party) We hope to see you all at a fu ture meeting!

- JUSTIN WATREL

1st R espon d er N ew spaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 35

APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www. 1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

WILLIAMSTOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

M ulti-A gency R e sp o n se C on tain s W orking D w elling Fire in W illiam stow n WILLIAMSTOWN, NJ - On March 19th, the Williamstown Fire Department was dispatched to a working dwelling fire. Crews from multiple agencies responded and worked quickly to bring the fire under control. The department extended its grat itude to its mutual aid partners for their support, including Cecil Fire Company, Washington Township Fire Department, Glassboro Fire Department, and Star Cross Fire Department.

DAMIEN DANIS

Moonachie Engine 803, a 2003 Pierce Dash, is seen here operating at a three-alarm warehouse fire on State Street, February 27th.

PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch o f the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

RON JEFFERS

EUGENE WERER JR.

This patch belongs to the Elizabeth Fire Department, located in Union County, New Jersey.

On March 28th, Fairview Squad I's new Spartan Metro Star model 1500-gpm/500-gwt rescuepumper got its its first work out during a multiple-alarm fire involving a duplex dwelling on Eighth St. Chauffeur Pat Buglione said the rig had two separate supply lines feeding the rig, one front and one rear intake. It was supplying three hand-lines and one supply line to Cliffside Park Ladder I's ladder pipe. Later, its light tower was placed into operation.

PAGE 36

May, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

W atchung F ire fig h te rs A ssist a t Hazardous M a te ria ls In cid e n t in W arren Township WARREN TWP., NJ - On February 24, 2026, Watchung Volunteer Fire Department re sponded as part o f a mutual aid assignment into Warren Township for a reported fire and hazardous materials incident. Engine 603 de ployed six firefight ers and arrived on scene to support on going operations. Crews assisted with overhaul and venti lation efforts, work ing alongside multiple responding agencies to ensure the scene was stabilized safely and efficiently. Firefighters operated for ap proximately one hour before being released and returning to the Borough. Mutual aid partners included Community Fire C om pany #3, Mt. Bethel Fire Co., Washington Valley Vol. Fire Co., Mt. Fioreb Vol. Fire Co., and Somerset County Fiazardous Ma terials teams. - 1RN NEW S TEAM

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FIRE EQUIPMENT If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Fire Equipment”feature please upload them on our website www.lREN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

DEMAREST, NJ - To address ongoing challenges with accountability on the fireground, the team collaborated with Box Alarm Leather, LLC to develop custom SCBA ID tags for all of their packs. The part nership proved highly successful, with the company delivering ex ceptional quality, durability, and craftsmanship. The team expressed strong appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail and the fast turnaround time, noting that the custom tags significantly im proved organization and accountability during operations.

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PAGE 37

May, 2026

M o n ro e Tw p. F ire fig h te rs A s s is t a t M u lti-V e h ic le F ire in S o u th Old B rid g e SOU TH O L D BRIDGE, NJ On February 9, 2026, M onroe Tow nship Fire D istrict #3 re spon ded to assist the South O ld B ridge Vol. Fire Com pany with a re port o f multiple v e h icles on fire. Tanker 23, staffed by A Platoon, was dispatched into South O ld B ridge as part o f a co o rd i nated mutual aid re sponse. U pon arrival, firefighters en countered several veh icles en gulfed in flames in a parking area, with heavy sm oke and fire con d i tions requiring an aggressive sup pression effort. C rew s deploy ed hand lines to contain and extin guish the blaze, w orking quickly to prevent the fire from spreading to additional veh icles or nearby exposures. The incident w as brought under control without reported in juries, and units rem ained on scene to ensure com plete extin guishm ent and overhaul opera tions.

-1R N NEWS TEAM

MONROE TWP FIRE DISTRICT #3

DEMAREST FIRE DEPARTMENT

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS DEMAREST FIRE DEPARTMENT

Jersey City firefighters wet down burning debris that involved an auto wrecking business on County av., March 21 st.

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May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

A ll H a n d s F ire D e s tro y s R o w h o m e a n d T h re a te n e d E x p o s u re s CAMDEN, NJ - On March 23, 2026, the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom received a call report ing a house on fire on 27th Street in the East Camden section o f Cam den and the box was transmitted. Battalion 2, Ed Stratton, arrived in one minute and reported heavy fire showing from 2715 Federal Street, which is a two-story, ordinary con structed, row home just 1/2 block away from the Eastside firehouse. The All Hands was transmitted. The engine companies de ployed a douce and a half and sev eral other 1 3/4" handlines to attack the fire and protect the attached ex posures. Deputy Chief Frank Sandrock (Car 4) arrived and assumed command and BC Ed Stratton be came the Operations Chief. Due to the deteriorated conditions o f the

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building, at 12:52 P.M., the order was given to transition to defensive operations. At 12:59 P.M., the roof collapsed. Ladder 3 was positioned in front o f the fire building and uti lized their elevated master stream as fire went through the roof and threatened the B and D exposures. Ladder Co. 1 went to the roof and vented. The companies were able to keep the fire from extending into ei ther o f the attached exposures. Sev eral pets were removed safely from the B exposure. The fire was placed under control at 1:40 RM.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

Engine Co. 11 Capt. Gabriel Arroyo and crew direct the douce and a half at the all hands fire at 2715 Federal Street, Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

A ground and aerial assault helped to extinguish this heavily involved dwelling fire at 2715 Federal Street in the East Camden section of Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Camden R-1 FF Charles Sanderson uses the saw to open up the porch roof area of the D exposure to stop the fire from communicating to the D exposure. Companies were able to prevent the fire from extending into the exposures from the fire at 2715 Federal Street, Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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May, 2026

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “ Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

JOHN RIETH

The new Veterans Fire Lookout Tower.

Garfield firefighters along with Saddle Brook handled this car fire on March 25th on Outwater Lane and 1st Street.

New Jersey Forest Fire Service Celebrates Grand Opening of Veterans Forest Fire Lookout Tower N ew Jersey Forest Fire Serv ice celebrates the grand opening o f the brand new "Veterans" For est Fire Lookout Tower, in Jackson Township (Ocean County), N ew Jersey. The name was to honor all o f our Veterans in New Jersey! The new tower, which is the first one built in 47 years, replaces what was the newest tower, which was the Lakew ood Tower. After the lease expired on the land for the Lakew ood Tower, this new 130-foot fire lookout was built on the N ew Jersey Forestry Service FREC or Forest Resource Educa tion Center on County Rt 527 in Jackson. The new tower can see into parts o f northern and western Ocean County, Southern and western Monmouth, eastern Mer-

DAMIEN DANIS

maP

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cer, southern Middlesex, and northern Burlington counties. Currently, N ew Jersey Forest Fire Service operates 21 forest fire lookout towers throughout N ew Jersey, most o f which are over or close to 100-years-old! The towers are the first line o f o f wildfire defense, which in cludes early detection and rapid response. The N ew Jersey Fire Lookout Towers still report more than half o f the wildfires in New Jersey when the towers are staff, which is any time the wildland fuels are dry enough to burn.

- JOHN RIETH

Enjoy taking photographs? Get th e m o st o u t o f yo u r hobby.

1st Responder News com pen sates correspondents for their article & photograph subm issions. C o n ta c t Lindsey TODAY fo r m ore in fo rm a tio n !

Lindsev@1 stresnondernews. com 845-534-7500 ext. 212 JOHN RIETH

Various state and local officials spoke and helped cut the red tape to officially open the Veterans Tower.

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May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

FRANK SAIA

The Lindenwold and Stratford aerials prepare to go to work as fire broke through the roof at the Laurel Hill Apartments at 800 Chews Landing Road, Lindenwold, NJ on February 24, 2026. JOHN M . MALECKY

City of Elizabeth Firefighter Julia Francisco is assigned to Engine 6.

Fire Rips Through Lindenwold Apartment Building LINDENWOLD, NJ - On Feb ruary 24, 2026 at approximately 10:55 A.M., the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom dispatched the Lindenwold Fire Department and automatic aid companies to the Laurel Hill Apartments at 800 Chews Landing Road in Linden w old for the report o f an apartment fire. Multiple calls reported multi ple units involved. Lindenwold Fire Chief, PK Beeler, arrived and reported a two-

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tit 3^ story apartment building with fire showing. First-in units stretched a 2.5" hand line to attack the fire, fol lowed by several more hand lines in an attempt to get ahead o f this welladvanced fire while searches were underway. The second alarm was transmit ted as crews were heavily engaged

in fire attack and overhaul. The fire communicated to the roof area, so crews were withdrawn and the Lin denwold and Stratford aerials were put to work as the fire made its way through the roof. The fire darkened down and crews remained on location for final extinguishment and overhaul. The fire was declared under control around 12:15 P.M.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

Burlington Twp., NJ FF Yahaira Bodon at the working fire at 1026 Mt. Holly Road, Edgewater Park, NJ on March 20, 2026.

The Stratford and Lindenwold aerials work to control the second alarm fire that ripped through Building 3 of the Laurel Hill Apartments in Lindewold on February 24, 2026.

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May, 2026

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May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

ALLAMUCHY TWP. VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT

MONROE TWP FIRE DISTRICT #3

Allamuchy Firefighters Forced to Leave 1-80 Crash Scene Due to Dangerous Itaffic Conditions AFFAMUCHY, NJ - The Alla muchy Volunteer Fire Department responded at 11:33 p.m. Sunday, February 22nd, to a tractor-trailer rollover on Interstate 80 eastbound at mile marker 22.2, but what began as a routine emergency response es calated into a hazardous situation due to motorists ignoring active travel restrictions and a commercial vehicle ban. Despite the presence o f multi ple marked police units, fire appa ratus, an ambulance, tow trucks, and extensive emergency lighting.

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'* 4

vehicles continued traveling through the scene at unsafe speeds. On the highway that night were nu merous New Jersey State Police troopers, five tow operators, two FlazMat specialists, five firefighters, and three EMTs. Officials reported that respon ders were nearly struck by passing vehicles at least four separate times. Conditions deteriorated to the point

where crews were forced to clear the scene and leave the wrecked tractor-trailer in place because it was too dangerous to continue op erating. Department officials empha sized that travel restrictions are is sued for safety reasons and are not optional, urging motorists to stay off the roads during declared bans and to slow down and respect emer gency scenes to prevent potential tragedy involving responders.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “ Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

MONROE TWP FIRE DISTRICT #3

Monroe Twp. Holds Swearing-In Ceremony and Recognizes F irefighter M ilestone MONROE TWP., NJ - Monroe Township Fire District #3 marked an important evening during its regular monthly meeting in Febru ary with a swearing-in ceremony for Firefighter Catherine “ Katie” Barnes and the formal acknowl edgement o f Firefighter Joe Shreve for successfully completing his one-year probationary period. The ceremony, held before commissioners, officers, and fel low members, highlighted the de partment’ s continued commitment to strengthening its ranks with ded icated and well-trained personnel. Firefighter Barnes took the oath o f office in front o f colleagues and family, officially beginning her

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service to the community, while Firefighter Shreve was recognized for his hard work, perseverance, and successful transition from pro bationary status to full member ship. Department leadership ex tended congratulations to both fire fighters, wishing them long, healthy, and safe careers as they continue to serve the residents o f Monroe Township with profession alism and dedication.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

DAMIEN DANIS

Saddle Brook Assistant Chief Gary Gilfoy, Chief of Dept. Herman Wenzel, and OEM Director Tom Dickman go over plans during a large-scale water leak incident on February 28th at the Marriott Hotel. The incident prompted the closure of the entire hotel and relocation of some 137 rooms that were occupied that evening.

May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 43

FRANK SAIA

MILLVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.

Camden Engine Co. 1 uses its deck gun to hit the heavily involved original fire building at 402 Stevens Street Camden, NJ on March 21,2026. The fire went to two alarms before being brought under control.

S e c o n d -A la rm D e s tro y s Tw o V a c a n t C am den H om es CAMDEN, NJ - While Cam den companies were operating at an All Elands fire at 1910 Filmore Street in the south side o f Camden, at approximately 12:15 PM. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom received calls reporting a house on fire at 4th and Stevens Street. First arriving units reported heavy fire showing from the 2nd and 3rd floors o f a three-story, or dinary constructed, end-of-the-row home. Camden Engine Co. 1 ar rived and immediately went in

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service with their deck gun. The fire quickly went through the roof and spread to the attached, similar constructed, three-story row home on the B side. Since a full first alarm assign ment was already operating on Fil more Street, several mutual aid companies were dispatched to the Stevens Street job. As conditions deteriorated, the second alarm was

transmitted that brought in addi tional units, including ladder com panies in which their aerials would be put to work. Companies quickly put master streams and hoselines in operation which knocked down the heavy volume o f fire. The fire was brought under control in under an hour and companies remained on location to hit the many hot spots that remained.

- FRANK SAIA

MILLVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.

MVFC A ssists in M ulti-A gency R e sp o n se to Structure Fire in Frankford D istrict MIEEVIEEE, NJ - On Friday, March 13th, the M illville Volun teer Fire Company (MVFC) was dispatched to a reported structure fire near the intersection o f Shockley Town Road and Feather Fane in Frankford’ s district. The incident involved a shed and bam that were fully engulfed in flames, with the fire extending into the surrounding brush and grass. MVFC responded to assist the Frankford Volunteer Fire C om pany, which maintained command o f the scene. Upon arrival, MVFC crews found the bulk o f the fire al ready under control and were as signed to assist with overhaul

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operations to ensure complete ex tinguishment and prevent rekin dle. Multiple agencies responded to the incident, including Bethany Vol. Fire Company, Dagsboro Vol. Fire Company, M illville Vol. Fire Company, Selbyville Vol. Fire Company, and Roxana Vol. Fire Company, each handling various assignments throughout the oper ation.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

FRANK SAIA

Cherry Hill FD Truckman Andrew Lloyd operates a saw to cut loose a portion of the roof that had collapsed in the rear of the dwelling at 402 Stevens Street, Camden, NJ on March 21, 2026.

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1st R e s p o n d e r N e w sp a p e r - NJ

May, 2026

D R IIIS/TR A IN IN G To se e you r D rills in the new spaper upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR espon derN ew s.com or em ail them to L in d sey @ lstR espon d erN ew s.com

On January 29th, the Little Ferry Fire D epartm ent partici pated in a natural gas em er gency training drill conducted by the Rutherford Fire Depart ment. PSE&G conducted the exercise, which was available to

all 5th Battalion departm ents. The course focused on recog nizing and managing natural gas crises, utility collaboration, and firefighter safety consider ations during gas-related acci dents. Mem bers from

num erous Rutherford com pa nies participated, along w ith firefighters from East Ruther ford, Lyndhurst, Carlstadt, W ood-Ridge, H asbrouck H eights, North Arlington, and Little Ferry.

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PAGE 45

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF ALLAMUCHY FIRE DEPT.

RON JEFFERS

A Public Service Electric technician confers with North Hudson Deputy Chief Al Platts, as a live power line was down over a storage van during a fire that involved a commercial garage on 54th St., West New York, March 2nd. Arriving fire units were greeted by overlapping fire extending out to the street and power lines falling.

COURTESY OF ALLAMUCHY FIRE DEPT.

Allam uchy Crews B a ttle S tructure Fire, Respond to Crash During A ctive Operations ALLAMUCHY, NJ - Alla muchy Fire Department responded to a reported smoke condition on Meadowlark Lane at approxi mately 2:56 p.m., March 1st, which was quickly upgraded to a working structure fire. Engine 91-61, Ladder 91-69, and Tender 91-71 arrived within minutes, with Chief 91 confirming a garage fire upon arrival. Crews immediately deployed handlines and initiated an aggressive interior attack while additional personnel conducted primary searches and extensive overhaul operations. The fire was brought under control with no reported injuries to occupants or firefighters. Mutual aid from multiple sur rounding departments played a

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til critical role in the operation, along with standby support from the A l lamuchy Green First Aid Squad for firefighter rehab. While units re mained on scene, a second incident was reported at 5:04 p.m.— a rollover MVA with entrapment on Route 80 westbound. Responding mutual aid crews, along with Alla muchy Rescue 91-75, worked to gether to successfully extricate the trapped occupant. The cause o f the structure fire remains under investigation by the Mount Olive Fire Marshal’ s Office.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

RON JEFFERS

During a multiple-alarm fire involving a Tonnelle Avenue bread business in North Bergen, March 17th, township police were notified that a funeral procession was coming up the major roadway to a mau soleum on the opposite side of the street. No apparatus were committed on the northbound lanes leading up to the mausoleum, so apparatus, chief, fire prevention and EMS vehicles and the Gong Club canteen truck were moved to make an opening for the procession as the fire was in progress.

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1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

MILLVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.

M illville Volunteer Fire Company Engages Students at Indian River High School Career Day MILLVILLE, NJ - On March 4, 2026, the Millville Volunteer Fire Company (MVFC) participated in Career Day at Indian River High School, offering students an inside look at the life and responsibilities o f volunteer firelighters. Represent ing MVFC were Junior Firefighters Leland Oakley, Elizabeth Hill, and Carter Porter, alongside Senior Firefighters Christian Hill and Jon Stewart. The team set up an interactive display in the school gymnasium, showcasing essential firefighting equipment such as SCBA (air packs), thermal imaging cameras.

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3» radios and pagers, and an auto mated external defibrillator (AED). Informational brochures and photo graphs highlighting M VFC’ s role in the community were also available for students. Throughout the event, students visited the MVFC booth to learn more about fire service operations. Firefighters answered questions, demonstrated gear and technology, and shared insights into the duties o f volunteer first responders. Em

phasis was placed on the impor tance o f teamwork, training, and community service in keeping resi dents safe. MVFC was proud to participate alongside several other organiza tions, including fellow fire compa nies. The engagement proved successful, with multiple students expressing interest in the junior firefighter program and community fire prevention initiatives. The com pany also received several applica tions from students eager to get involved.

FRANK SAIA

Camden Captain Squad Co. 7 Gabe Angemi on the fireground at the All Hands fire at 2715 Federal Street, Camden, NJ on March 23, 2026.

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May, 2026

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters o f the Emergency Services feature, please upload them on our website, www. 1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

Short Timers. North Hudson Captain William Shelton of Marine-Engine Co. 3, left, had three working tours left when he operated at this bucket truck fire in Union City on March 16th. Second Battalion Chief Mike Giacumbo, white helmet, is retiring in June.

WILLIAMSTOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

On March 19th, the Williamstown Fire Department was dispatched to a working dwelling fire. Crews from multiple agencies responded and worked quickly to bring the fire under control.

RELLEVILLE NJ FIRE DEPARTMENT RON JEFFERS

Bergen County Mutual Aid Coordinator Kevin Felten was on the scene and assisting at a mutual-aid fire in Fairview, March 28th.

The Belleville Fire Department proudly extends its congratulations to all those recognized during Newark St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Special recognition is given to one of their own, Captain Chase Hamilton, who was honored with the distinguished role of Deputy Grand Marshal. His achievement reflects both his dedication to service and the pride of the entire department.

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May, 2026

1st R espon d er N ew spaper - NJ

EMM Loans Joins Heroes Mortgage Program, Expands Financing Options for Community Heroes The Heroes Mortgage Program has announced

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well as commercial financing options for invest

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Phone: 866-497-8833 Heroes Mortgage Program® is a marketing initiative and accompanying website owned and operated by Belsito Communications Inc. The Heroes Mortgage Program® is neither a lender nor a broker and does not originate or make loans nor make any credit decisions in connection with loans,but makes visitors to the site aware of licensed lenders that do. The Program is not an agent of either the consumer or any participating bank, lender or mortgage broker. There is never any charge to the consumer to use the Heroes Mortgage Program®. The Heroes Mortgage Program® does not guarantee that submitting requested information to participating lenders will result in the origination of a loan froma Lender, nor does it guarantee that the consumerwill receive a loan with the most advantageous rate or terms.

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May, 2026

1st R esponder Newspaper - NJ

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

EVESHAM FIRE-RESCUE

Evesham F ire -R e scu e R enam es L e a d e rsh ip A w ard in H onor o f C a p ta in K e n n e th “ S a tc h ” H arper

FRANK SAIA

Beverly FF James Lowden at the working fire at 1026-1028 Mt. Holly Road, Edgewater Park, NJ on March 20, 2026.

EVESHAM, NJ - February 13, 2026 — Evesham Fire-Rescue presented its final award o f the Annual Awards Banquet with a meaningful tribute, formally re naming its Leadership Award to the Captain Kenneth “Satch” Harper Leadership Award. The department was honored to w elcom e Captain Harper’ s fam ily — his w ife Terri, sons Kevin and Kyle, daughter Megan, and extended family — as the an nouncement was made. C hief Bit tenbender shared remarks outlining why the award now car ries Captain Harper’ s name, rec ognizing a legacy defined by steady leadership, integrity, men-

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3§> torship, and an unwavering com mitment to protecting both his per sonnel and the department. Captain Harper was rem em bered as a leader who set high standards, w elcom ed respectful dialogue, and ensured that every member under his command felt supported. His influence continues to shape the culture o f Evesham Fire-Rescue. The award stands as a lasting tribute to Captain Harper’ s m em ory and serves as a reminder that leadership at its core is about men

torship, advocacy, and protection o f on e’ s crew. This year’ s recipient o f the Captain Kenneth “Satch”Harper Leadership Award is Deputy Chief B ob Zane. Deputy Chief Zane was recogn ized for exem plifying the values the award represents through his dedication to service, leadership, and commitment to the members and m ission o f Evesham Fire-Rescue. The department proudly hon ors Captain Harper’ s legacy while congratulating Deputy Chief Zane on this well-deserved recognition.

- COURTESY OF EVESHAM FIRE-RESCUE

FRANK SAIA

Westmont Deputy Chief Frank Jackson assists with command and control at the Westmont worker on March 3, 2026. EVESHAM FIRE-RESCUE

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May, 2026

1st R espon d er N ew spaper - NJ

Fire & Safety Services to Add New Shop Fire & Safety Services, one o f our regular contributors to this column, is in the process o f opening a second shop. I have decided to let Dave Rus sell tell their story and here it is: The idea for a facility really started as try ing to find a one-bay location for our technicians in the southern part of the state to have a place to work on our larger projects and to have a place to have some parts that they could have centrally located. But once we started to look for the data, we pivoted to looking for a larger facility and expan sion o f Fire & Safety Services. There are a few reasons for this-one o f which is the changing demographics o f the shore communities to more year-round permanent residential homes rather than just summer residences, with a handful of year-round residents. But a big factor was the success o f our sales teams over the last 20 years or so. For many years, our sales were focused in the Atlantic and Cape May areas where Sam Squire had been representing us since we took over the southern half of the state in 1984. We also had a very strong showing in Monmouth and Ocean Counties where Bill Russell's ties to that area provided steady orders. In the early 2000's, Ed Miller and John O'Keefe jointed our staff and really de veloped the Ocean County and south western part o f the state and with Fred Hundt coming on board in 2018, pro viding us with sales in an area we al ways struggled in, due to customers trust in what Fred told them. This led us to grow our sales in the southern part o f the state at a rate we hadn't been able to achieve before. Over the last five years, we have sold 281 units, of which over a third (94 units) were sold in counties o f Mercer and Mon mouth or south. Now to the shop-we had looked at several places and I credit Sean O'Conner and John Thompson along with our four techni cians who cover that area for doing a lot o f the scouting work o f possible lo cations, from new construction to ex isting structures. At 27 Gladney Avenue in Bayville, we found a build ing that is on two acres and has eight bays that are 60-feet deep. It provided us with 11,000-square-feet o f service space and also there is 200-square-feet of office/administrative/operation space. Initially we plan to slowly grow the operations at that facility and man age things to make sure we develop operational systems before getting too busy. We will start with a small staff at that location and we will initially focus on doing routine preventive mainte nance and repairs, taking the burden off our technicians in the area so they can focus on out of service units and other work. As we get settled, we will be looking to grow our staff and the types of work that we can perform. In this month's photos we feature two trucks from Elizabeth (Union County). One is Truck 3, a Pierce 95foot mid-mount platform, and the other is Tac 1A, a Skeeter high water rescue which arrived after the trip to Elizabeth which was featured in the January col umn. Other photos include a Spartan ER pumper to Bayonne (Hudson Please send any com m ents o r news tidbits you m ight have about Apparatus o f the M onth to us at 1st R esponder News, 1 A rd m ore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553. O r you can e-mail them to A pparatus@ lstR esponderN ew s.com .

IM . MALECKY

Elizabeth Truck 3,2017 Pierce Arrow XT 95-foot with 8 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Bayonne E-7, 2026 Spartan ER Metro Star, 1500/750. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

JOHN M. MALECKY

M. MALECKY

Elizabeth Tac-IA, 2025 Freightliner 108SD/Skeeter. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Warren Township, Community FC 3, Tank 61-3, 2024 Kenworth T880/Sutphen 1750/3000. It was sold by Blaze Emergency Equip-

M. MALECKY

JOHN M. MALECKY

Bridgewater Township, Martinsville E-43-1, 2018 Pierce Velocity 2000/1000 with 6 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

AtlanticCare A-311, 2024 Ford E-450/2011 AEV. It was sold by VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists.

County), an AEV Type III ambulance from the Atlantic Health System (sta tioned in Hammonton in Atlantic County), two apparatus (a Pierce pumper and Freightliner/ E-ONE 4x4 pumper) from Martinsville FC in Bridgewater Township and a Kenworth/Sutphen pumper/tanker from the Community FC in Warren Township all in Somerset County. In apparatus news, the specs on the

chassis, Extreme Duty Pumper, 177inch wheelbase, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Waterous CMU 1500gpm pump, Pro Poly 750-gallon water tank, Tri-Max aluminum body, ROM roll-up compartment doors, low hosebed and Whelen scene lighting. Both were sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC. We have learned that the Daretown FC in Upper Pittsgrove Township

Englishtown (Monmouth County) de livery include a Spartan ER Metro Star MFD chassis, 177-inch wheelbase, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Waterous CMU 1500-gpm pump, Tri Max aluminum body, ROM roll up compartment doors, 750-gallon Pro Poly water tank, low hose bed and Whelen scene lights. The specs on the Bayonne (Hudson County) delivery in clude a Spartan ER Metro Star MFD

(Salem County) has purchased from the Freewood Acres FC in Howell Township (Monmouth County) their tractor-drawn pumper/tanker. It is a 1989 Peterbilt 357 tractor with 4 Guys trailer redone in 1991 by Bar Bel Fab ricators. The tractor has a 1500-gpm pump and the trailer holds 6500-gallons.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2026

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May, 2026

1st R esp on d er N ew sp aper - NJ

APPARATUS OF THE MONTH Continued from Page 50

DOWNE TWP. FIRE/RESCUE AND DIVE TEAM

D ow ne T o w n sh ip M e m b e rs C e le b ra te P i Day w ith DTES S tu d e n ts DOWNE, NJ - On March 13th, twelve members from Downe Township participated in the an nual Pi Day celebration at Downe Township Elementary School (DTES). Nine of the members, including CICI the Clown, took part as special guests in a fun-filled activity where students had the chance to throw pies at them. The event was met with enthusiasm and laughter, cre ating a memorable experience for both the students and participants. The team expressed their appreciation to the school for the invitation and for including them in such an enjoyable community celebration.

Firefighter 1has delivered the follow ing: to West Keansburg FC in Hazlet Township (Monmouth County), a Fer rara Inferno pumper. The Camden Fire Department (Camden County) has re ceived a Ferrara mid-mount platform for Ladder 3. It is an HD 85 on an Inferno chassis. Mendham (Morris County) has received an Inferno rescue pumper. The}' have also delivered a Fastlane rescue truck to Northvale (Bergen County) and a Type 1 Road Rescue ambulance to the Tewksbury Township First Aid & Rescue (Hunterdon County). Haledon (Passaic County) has ordered an E-ONE HR-100 quint on a Typhoon chassis. It will have a 2,000-gpm pump and 500-gallon water tank. .Also in Pas saic County, the West Milford FC 4, Macopin received an E-ONE Typhoon stainless steel pumper/tanker. It has a 1500-gpm pump and 2530-gallon water tank. In Monmouth County, the Adelphia FC in Howell Township received their EONE HP 100. New Jersey Emergency Vehicles has made the following P.L. Custom ambu lance deliveries: to the Rahway EMS, a Medallion on Ford E-450 chassis, with a gasoline engine (Union County), to the Jersey Shore Hatzolah (Monmouth County) a Medallion on a Ford E-450 chassis, to the Lakewood FAS (Ocean County) a Medallion on a Ford E-450 chassis, to the North .Arlington EMS (Bergen County) a remount o f a Ford E450 chassis, and to the Cranbury FAS (Middlesex County) a remount o f a Ford F-550 chassis.

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Blaze Emergency Equipment has de livered to the Reliance FC, Mays Land ing in Hamilton Township (Atlantic County) a Sutphen pumper/tanker. Specs include a Monarch Long Cab (72-inches) with 10-inch raised roof, eight seats (5 SCBA) 8 position Firecom 5100D wire less intercom system, Cummins X I 5, 605 hp diesel engine, top mount pump panel, Waterous CSU, 2,000-gpm pump, Trident auto pump primer, 2500-gallon poly water tank, 10-inch rear Newton dump valve, front intake, a total o f 13 discharges, two 1 /4-inch speedlays, one 2 /4-inch crosslay, booster reel, pre-piped deck gun with Extend-A-Gun, ROM roll up compartment doors, seven SCBA cylinder storage compartments, Zico Quic-Lift electric ladder rack, FRC Spec tra brow and scene lights, Smart Power 8 kw generator, Hannay electric cord reel and a Will Burt NS 15-4000 light tower. Fire & Safety Services reports the fol lowing Pierce orders: for Pennsauken, an Enforcer 100-foot mid-mount tower (no pump or tank); for Cherry Hill District 13, an Enforcer pumper (both Camden County); for Long Branch an Enforcer 107-foot Ascendant ladder with tandem rear axle; for Ramtown FC in Howell Township, an Enforcer 100-foot mid mount tower (both Monmouth County) and for the City o f Wildwood (Cape May County) an Enforcer pumper. Pierce de liveries include to Glassboro (Gloucester County) an Enforcer pumper and to Moorestown District 1 an Enforcer pumper and an Enforcer 105-foot ladder (Burlington County).

1ST R espon der N ew spaper - NJ

May, 2026

PAGE 53

________________ WORKING FACES________________ If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

FRANK SAIA

Camden FF Rashon Melvin stretching a 2 1/2" handline at a working fire at 1260 Liberty Street, Camden, NJ on February 9,2026.

Camden FF Chris Jimenez carries ladder to the fire building at a working fire at 1260 Liberty Street, Camden, NJ on February 9, 2026.

Camden Captain Will Johnson at the working fire at 1260 Liberty Street, Camden, NJ on February 9, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Camden Battalion Chief Dan Baker directing fireground operations at the working fire at 1260 Liberty Street, Camden, NJ on February 9, 2026.

Harrison Twp. FD Lt. Chris Conley at a working fire in Glassboro, NJ on February 12, 2026.

Lindenwold Fire Chief, PK Beeler, at the command post, directs fireground operations at this 2nd alarm fire at the Laurel Hill Apartments on February 24, 2026.

PAGE 54

1st R espon d er N ew spaper - NJ

May, 2026

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May, 2026

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May, 2026

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