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MARCH, 2026

DAMIEN DANIS

ROSELLE PARK, NJ - A raging fire broke out at a construction and flooring materials warehouse in Roselle Park on January 1st. Companies arrived after being dispatched to a smell of smoke in the area just before 5 p.m. and discovered a fire at Crossfield Products, located at 140 Valley Road. - See full story on page 2

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

6-Alarm Blaze Destroys Roselle Park Warehouse ROSELLE PARK, NJ -A rag ing fire broke out at a construc tion and flooring materials ware house in R oselle Park on January 1st. Com panies ar rived after being dispatched to a smell o f smoke in the area just before 5 p.m. and discov ered a fire at C ross field Products, located at 140 Valley Road. A quick second alarm was struck, follow ed by greater alarms thereafter, which w ould eventually escalate to a sixth alarm. The fire extended to an exposure building, a com m er cial occupancy on the Bravo side, but that fire was quickly knocked down. Heavy fire took possession o f the building as numerous outside lines and master streams went into operation. Due to the numer ous chem icals involved, the Union County Haz Mat team was brought in. As the fire consumed the building, a severe ember con dition over the neighborhood had firefighters on brand patrol to en sure no roofs o f hom es or other buildings were on fire. The r oof eventually collapsed, causing the outer walls to crack and becom e compromised. A severe icy condi tion formed on the fireground as temperatures were in the low 20s. “Several explosions occurred in the beginning from propane tanks, resins, oils, and other chemicals,”R oselle Park Mayor

DAMIEN DANIS Joseph Signorello, Jr. said. The mayor also stated that fire fighters could not immediately enter the burning building due to the danger posed by the chemicals and fire conditions. He said a

transformer blew, causing about 500 customers to lose power. Fire officials reported no injuries.

- DAMIEN DANIS

DAMIEN DANIS

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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HILLSBOROUGH TW P STATIOH 37 FIRE

On the morning of January 1st, the Colonia Volunteer Fire Department held its yearly swearing-in ceremony to install its Fire and Business Officers and begin the new year. Chief Michael Pirozzoli took the oath of office. Frank Mazzarella and Joseph Fugaro were sworn in as Deputy Chiefs. Dylan Zalink and Justin McGhee were appointed captains; McGhee is not shown. Michael Karafa and Andrew Nilsson took the oath of office as Lieutenants. Additionally, the department appointed its Business Officers, including Anthony Giardina as Treasurer, Brandon Roth as Secretary, Gabriel Carames as Vice President, and Peter Theologis as President.

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 33 No. 3 - 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. A d iv is io n of:

u communications, inc.

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 lnfo@belsito.net

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ - A re ported tractor-trailer fire on Valley Road, January 10th, prompted the Hillsborough Twp. Station 37 Fire. When arriving units discovered a tractor-trailer lire, they started sup pression efforts right away. In order to stop the fire from spreading to neighboring cars and reducing fur ther risks in the region, crews used handlines to contain the fire. C37, DC37, and Tanker 37 were among the responding equipment from Station 37. Firefighters used the incident command system while

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keeping an eye out for hotspots in the car and its surroundings. There were no reported injuries. Before resum ing to service, units stayed on the site to make sure the fire was completely put out and the situation was safe.

-COURTESYOF HILLS BOROUGH TWP. STATION 37 FIRE

KEASBEY FIRE UEPARTMEHT

New Year Brings Leadership Appointm ents in Keasbey KEASBEY, NJ - As the new year got underway, the Keasbey Fire Department named its officers for 2026. Alex Salgado was named Assistant Chief, and John Manna was named Chief. Luis Montalvo was chosen to be the lieutenant, while Rick Polidura will be the captain. For Protection Fire Com pany No. 1 and its voluntary members, the officers will be in charge of operations, training, and reaction prepared ness. The Keasbey region of Woodbridge Township and the neighboring mutual-aid areas continue to receive fire sup pression, rescue assistance, and emergency response services from the department.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 5

March, 2026

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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

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GENERAL MANAGER

In memory of those who gave all

K a th y R o n silli (Kathy@ 1stResponderNews.com)

MANAGING EDITOR L in d s e y P a lm e r (Undsey@1stResponderNews.com)

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR A sh le y R a m o s (Ashley@1 stResponderNews.com)

NEW JERSEY EDITOR

emergency responders lost in the line of duty

R o n Je ffers

OPERATIONAL MANAGER N ic h o la s B elsitO (Nicholas@1stResponderNews.com)

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EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS

South Dakota: Nicholas "Nick" Van Dam, 37 Rank: Captain

Pennsylvania: Ed Margavich, 80 Rank: Fire Police Captain

Incident Date: July 26, 2025 Death Date: July 26, 2025 Fire Department: Murdo Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While responding to the War Creek

Incident Date: Aug. 8, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 15,2025 Fire Department: Third District Volunteer Fire

Fire (Jones County, South Dakota) in a 2,000-gallon ten

Initial Summary: On August 8, 2025, Fire Police

der, Captain Nicholas Van Dam was involved in a motor

Captain Ed M argavich responded with the Third D is

vehicle accident. Captain Van Dam was ejected from the

trict Volunteer Fire Com pany to a vehicle fire that

vehicle as it left the roadway and rolled. Captain Van

spread to a house. After directing traffic at the scene

Dam sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced de

for a while, Fire Police Captain Margavich was walk

ceased at the scene.

Carr •Steven Catena •Don Colamsso •Robert Connell •Damien Danis •Joseph 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 subm issions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore Street, N ew Windsor, NY 12553. Or, giv e us a call or send us an e-mail. I f using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all subm issions you wash to have returned. Publisher resem es the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

ing to a nearby fire station to get additional equip ment when he fell and broke his femur. He was

Keith Addie •Adam Alberti •Bill Auth •Shannon Bock •David Bums •John W Diehl •Doug Fenichel •Joseph Getsinger •Alan Hoffman •Todd Hollritt •Richard

Company

Florida: Jairus Hodge, 26 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: July 21, 2025 Death Date: July 22, 2025 Fire Department: St. Lucie County Fire District Initial Summary: While on duty on July 21, 2025, Fire fighter/Paramedic Jairus Hodge became ill and was sent home. The following day on July 22, 2025, while at his home, Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge felt worse and

transported to a trauma center and underwent em er gen cy surgery. Due to com plications related to the in jury, however, Fire Police Captain Margavich passed away on August 15, 2025.

New Hampshire: Christopher "Brownie" E. Brown, 42 Rank: Captain Incident Date: Aug. 18, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 19, 2025

N ew s@ 1 stR esp on d erN ew s.co m

ported to a local hospital where he later passed away.

Fire Department: Northwood Fire Rescue Initial Summary: On the evening o f August 18, 2025,

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The cause o f death has yet to be determined.

Captain Christopher Brown participated in forcible entry

845-534-7500 ext. 212 •(fax) 845-534-0055

called for help. Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge was trans

training with Northwood Fire Rescue. At 3:12 p.m. on

I f you w ould like information about how advertising in 1st Responder N ews can benefit your com pany call our advertising hotline at:

845-534-7500 ext. 211 •(fax) 845-534-0055 A d v e r tis in g @ 1 s t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m

CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. I f you d o not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. H om e subscriptions are $48 per year.

845-534-7500 ext. 220 •(fax) 845-534-0055 C ir c u la tio n @ 1 s t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m

GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder N ew s’ graphics team wall work with you on your adver tisement free o f charge. A ddition ally, w e offer a com plete 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, n o one else deliv ers the high quality work at our competitive prices. A s a newspaper in the Belsito Com m unications Inc. family, 1st Responder N ews has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scan ning tech nology 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.

B E L S IT O

845-534-7500 ext. 214 •(fax) 845-534-0055 ln fo @ B e ls it o . c o m

Texas: Michael Eugene Phillips, 66 Rank: Chief

August 19,2025, Captain Brown called the fire station

Incident Date: July 5, 2025 Death Date: July 5, 2025

an ambulance. Captain Brown was transported to a local hospital where his condition worsened rapidly. Although

Fire Department: Marble Falls Volunteer Fire

CPR and other lifesaving measures were initiated, Cap

Department

tain Brown was pronounced deceased. The cause o f

Initial Summary: Chief Michael Phillips went missing

death has yet to be determined.

while responding to a call for service on July 5, 2025, during severe storms and flooding that impacted central Texas. The emergency vehicle Chief Phillips was driv ing was swept o ff the roadway by floodwaters. The vehi cle was later discovered, but Chief Phillips was not located with it. After days o f searching, the Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department announced the end o f watch for Chief Phillips on July 15, 2025.

to report that he was in severe back pain and requested

1^ Responder Newspaper - NJ

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March, 2026

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

MAYWOOD FIREFIGHTER GEORGE STEGER WAS AN AMERICAN HERO UPS

DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers

George W. Steger, 102, was part o f the Greatest Generation. He was a World War II hero, mechanical en gineer, family man, volunteer fire fighter, and more. He passed away on January 5th while residing at the New Jersey Firemen's H om e in Boonton. As a youth, George lived on 60th Street in West New York, across the street from Truck Co. l's firehouse. His father was chief o f the WNY auxiliary firemen. Auxiliary firemen were volunteers that go back to the Civil Defense days. So, George be came interested in the fire depart ment and “ buffed”Truck l's house. He graduated from Pratt Institute in 1943 with a mechanical engineer ing degree. The day after his gradu ation, he was drafted into the US Army. After basic training, he boarded a ship that landed in Le Harve, France. With his fellow soldiers, he fought his way to just outside o f Berlin, at the Elbe River, where an entire German tank division surren dered to Steger's troops. Later, he became the 405th In fantry D ivision Company C clerk when his first sergeant discovered that he was a college graduate. Steger served in 19 battles. He was put in charge o f soldiers who maintained order at the Nuremburg trials. At the end o f the war, he was put in charge o f die German prison ers at the trials. When he returned to West New York, he married his high school sweetheart, Ethel. George was em ployed with RCA in Harrison for 33-years. Still interested in the fire service, he became a West New York auxiliary fireman, riding with Truck Co. 1. The couple m oved to M aywood in 1954, and Steger became a vol unteer fireman with Protection H ook & Ladder Company. Over the years, he served as lieutenant, cap tain and as company treasurer for over 30-years. Additional duties in cluded being safety officer. He also returned to West New York on his days off and rode with Truck 1, continuing his auxiliary status. Here, he rose to the rank o f auxiliary fire chief. Never visit a firehouse empty handed. He was fa mous for delivering many desserts. When the West New York Fire D e partment merged into the North Hudson regional department, Steger was still chief o f the auxiliary unit. He continued to ride with North Hudson second battalion chiefs, that were assigned to a West New York firehouse, at the time. Steger was also named an Honorary Battalion C hief with the North Hudson R e gional Fire & Rescue.

While residing in Boonton, G eorge was active in many activi ties. Members o f the M aywood Fire Department and active and retired West New York firefighters visited him on a regular basis. His close friend, M ayw ood Fire C hief Roy D e Young, would organ ize visits to Boonton, and proudly post those visits on Facebook. It was fitting that D e Young had becom e C hief o f Department at the time o f George's passing to lead the way for his funeral. An escort o f M aywood and State Police vehicles proceeded from the funeral home in Paramus to the Grove Church cemetery in North Bergen. The procession included the M ayw ood fire companies. While proceeding down Route 17, the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department provided a final salute at an over pass. The cemetery was filled with M ayw ood firefighters, police and retired and active West New York/North Hudson firefighters. Also present were on duty North Hudson fire companies. Firefighter Steger was buried with military honors. George Steger was the definition o f a mild mannered gentleman, and he was well loved and respected by his fire service family. UPS: Newly appointed firefight ers in Harrison are Anderson Gon zalez, Malik Haynes-Smith and Elijah Pollas. DOWNS: A sedan crashed into an auditorium wall at Elizabeth High School at Bridge & Pearl St.'s, Jan. 5th, shortly after 8 a.m. The driver and a person inside the school were injured. Prior to the collision, the car was driving erratically and drove over the curb before crashing into the wall, authorities said. The driver and a student were hospital ized with minor injuries, according to the Daily Voice. UPS: Wallington Firefighter Stash Kisala has completed 50years o f service with Company 202 and he has been awarded Honorary C hief status. Kisala retired as a cap tain and officer in charge o f the Wallington Police Department after 37-years o f service. DOWNS: Atlantic City firefight ers responded to reports o f a man in distress o ff the jetty near Rhode Is land Avenue Beach, Dec. 31st. FF Dom inic Gitto reached the man using a long board, when officials said the man attempted to stab the firefighter with a screwdriver. FF Gitto was able to deflect the weapon and continue rescue operations. FF Gitto was treated for hypothermia at a local hospital and released. The rescued man faced multiple charges, according to CBS Philadelphia. UPS: Wallington Engine Co. 202 members have awarded FF Paul Stolarz Life Member status. He has served as an officer several times and does a lot o f “ behind the scenes work,”for the company. DOWNS: On the morning o f Jan. 9th the Hasbrouck Heights F.D. was

PROVIDED

Maywood Firefighter George Steger, left, with Chief of Department Roy De Young. dispatched to the Hilton Hotel for an activated alarm. Firefighters found high readings o f carbon monoxide throughout the building. The entire hotel was evacuated and ventilated. A 2nd alarm was transmitted by C hief o f Department Robert Rnobloch and a special call for the Bergen County Fan Unit. It was de termined by PSE&G that die carbon monoxide was caused by a malfunc tioning boiler in die basement. UPS: The National Firefighters Foundation has recognized retired Wildwood Fire Chief Daniel Speigel as this year's recipient o f the Arthur .1. Glatfelter Distinguished Service Award, according to the organiza tion's Facebook post. The ch ief is recognized for his contributions to die organization and his community, and his continued dedication to those in the fire service and their families. DOWNS: A Camden firefighter suffered minor injuries during a re sponse to a fire in a Spruce St. dwelling on Jan. 6th, according to WCAU-TV. The firefighter was taken to an area hospital for treat ment. UPS: In Kearny, Dan Neves has been promoted to fire official. In ad dition, John Albizu has been pro moted to fire prevention specialist. DOWNS: On January 14th, an auto struck the firehouse on Sanford & South Orange Avenues, in Newark. Four occupants o f the vehi cle suffered non-life-threatening in juries. No firefighters were inured, according to a media report. UPS: New firefighters in Passaic are: Lenny Ramirez, Joaquin R o driguez, Roberto Umana, Nucholas Kovacs, Gregory Drelich, Kevin Burgos and Messiah Stevens. DOWNS: A suspicious fire in a multi-family structure on Third St., Carlstadt, claimed the life o f one oc

RON JEFFERS

Firefighter George Steger received a Fire Departmental funeral along with Military Honors. cupant, January 16th. Firefighters knocked down the fire in about 20 minutes, according to Independent Online News. Bergen County arson detectives were investigating the cause o f the fire along with borough police. UPS: Fair Lawn Police Sgt. Luis Vasquez ran into a smoke-filled Third St. home, January 21st, and rescued a kitten trapped during a fast-moving fire. The fire originated in a second-floor bedroom, officials said. Two other police officers en tered the building to make a search. One was later treated for smoke in halation at a local hospital. Fire Chief Mike Salvini said the fire was quickly knocked down. DOWNS: Nine people were dis placed due to a fire involving a But

tonwood St. duplex home in Mount Holly, Jan. 18th, according to News

12. " UPS: Emily Sa has been ap pointed to the Millbum Fire Depart ment. . DOWNS: A fire destroyed a High Street dwelling in Rahway, January 20th. UPS: Asbury Park's new firehouse at 200 Memorial Dr. is set to open in the near future. It is replacing a fire house built in i899 that has “faced numerous challenges over the last 50-years,” according to “The Coaster Editorial Staff,”article. The new building is a 32,000-square-feet structure and a New Jersey certified Division o f Fire safety training site.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

PA GE 9

March, 2026

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

F ire fig h te rs O vercom e R ural W ater C halle nges a t S outham pton Barn F ire SOUTHAMPTON, NJ - At approximately 7:30 PM. on Jan uary 4, 2026, the Burlington County Fire Alarm R oom d is patched the Vincent Fire C om pany and automatic aid com panies to 421 Isaac Budd Road, Southampton Twp., for the report o f a barn fire. Working farms occupy much o f this is part o f rural Burlington County, and fire hydrants are few and far be tween. Vincent Fire C h ief Scott Mitchell, 1710, arrived and re ported a heavily involved barn fire with other buildings and farm tractor equipment as exposures. C h ief M itchell activated the water tender strike team, knowing that this fire would require a large volume o f water to bring under control and there were not any fire hydrants nearby. Several handlines, portable deck guns, and Tabernacle Quint 4313 were used to attack the fire and protect exposures before bringing this fire under control.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

Firefighters work to extinguish pockets of fire after a fire raged through a large barn at 421 Isaac Budd Road in Southampton, NJ in rural Burlington County on January 4, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

The Tabernacle FD aerial was put to work to extinguish a well-involved barn fire at 421 Isaac Budd Road, Southampton Twp, NJ on January 4, 2026. A vast water tender and relay operation was needed to bring this fire under control.

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ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

MARMORA VOLUNTEER FIRE CO.

Marmora Fire and EMS Handle Parkway Crash w ith Entrapment MARMORA, NJ - The Upper Township Division of EMS and the Marmora Volunteer Fire Company were called to a re ported car accident on the Garden State Parkway, close to mile marker 25.7 northbound, on December 1, 2025. Respon ders found the scene on the northbound side, where one car had veered off the road and landed in dense bush about 50feet into the median. When crews entered the car, they dis covered two people inside. Seaville Fire/Rescue and the Tuckahoe Volunteer Fire Company were called in by an Upper Township Fire all-call to help. The Ocean City Fire Depart ment was asked to send another ambulance. After receiving care, both patients were moved. The New Jersey State Police and AtlantiCare Paramedics were also on the scene.

RIO GRANDE FIRE COMPANY

Multi-Company E ffort Controls Rio Grande Structure Fire RIO GRANDE, NJ - A reported structure fire in the 600 block of Breakwater Road in Lower Township on December 11, 2025, prompted the Rio Grande Fire Company to react. Tanker 60, Tender 61, Squad 72 (designated as RIT), and Tanker 72 joined Erma Fire Company in responding. When crews arrived, they saw flames coming from the building's front. Quint 62 moved to the second story after extending two attack lines and putting out exterior flames. Before returning to service, firefighters stayed on the scene for around four hours while operating under established command.

In the New Jersey Gigs sec tion of the D ecem ber 2025 issue, there was a photo graph of an O ldsm obile R oadster at the Firem en's Home M useum in B oonton. That photo brought smiles to the faces of the senior m em bers of the W estw ood Fire D epartm ent. The reason fo r that is because the vehicle, named Alfred and on loan to the m useum , belongs to the departm ent. Alfred used to be housed in the fireho u se in an open space between one of the en gines and the ladder truck. At som e tim e around 1950, there was a barn belonging to W illiam Baker that caught fire. Responding members of the departm ent saved the ve hicle from being lost by pushing it out of the barn. In app reciatio n , Mr. Baker de cided to give it to the fire de partm ent. Fire dam age was m inim al, but A lfred was in disrepair. Repairs were made at a garage and gas station owned by Lawrence Greenip Sr., one of the members who helped rescue it from the fire. Alfred has been referred to as a 1901, 1902 and 1903 m odel. However, the photo of the New Jersey M otor Ve hicle C ertificate of O w ner ship dated May 5, 1951 states that it is a 1900 model Oldsm obile Roadster. Alfred has been driven in the bor ough's M em orial Day pa rades in the past, but not recently. A nother photo is of 1951 C hief W alter H opper standing with Alfred on the apron of the 1929 firehouse. That building was razed in 1997 in preparation fo r the new headquarters that was constructed in the same lo cation. In the m id-1980's, the Boonton Hom e m anagem ent was looking fo r m em orabilia to occupy the museum. The de cision was made to put A l fred on display at the home. The m em bers also fe lt that the vehicle w ould be less vulnerable to dam age in a m useum setting instead of on an open flo o r w ithin the firehouse.

NICK ARIEMMA

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P A G E 12

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

UPS & DOWNS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

DOWNS: An 85-year-old woman died as the result o f a 2-alarm fire at a C ollege Dr. apartment in Jersey City, Jan. 27th. Firefighters re m oved the unconscious victim from the building and turned her over to m edical personnel. She was trans ported to JCMC where she expired, according to news reports. UPS: During the 2025 NJSPBA Valor Awards ceremony. North Hudson Firefighter Tim Colacci, senior member o f Squad C o 1, was pre sented with the Friend In Labor

Award. “Through his service as vice chair o f the Police and Firemen's re tirement System (PFRS) Trustee Board, Tim C olacci has been o f great service to all members. A c cording to the PBA publication, “ New Jersey Cops,”Whenever any o f our members had a problem with getting a pension or there was an issue with accidental disability or an ordinary disability, Timmy was there for us. So we are proud to cal him our friend.”

SOUTH AMROY FIRE DEPT.- ENTERPRISE TRUCK 8

South Amboy Fire Units Recognize New Leadership

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RON JEFFERS

North Hudson Firefighter Tim Colacci, senior member of Squad Co.1, received the Friend In Labor Award at the 2025 NJSPBA award ceremonies for his dedicate work as vice chair of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System Trustee Board.

SOUTH AMBOY, NJ - The chief officers for the upcoming year have been revealed by the South Amboy Fire Department's Enterprise Truck 8. Michael Kelly is assigned to Truck 8 of Enterprise Hook and Ladder Company after being named Chief of Department. Charles Honimar, who works with Protection Engine Company, Engine 6, was appointed First Assistant Chief. Kenneth Kokoszka was chosen to be the Second Assistant Chief and assigned to Engine 7 of Independ ence Engine and Hose Company. The chiefs will be in charge of emergency response prepared ness, training coordination, and department operations. In order to enhance public safety in South Amboy and the neighboring areas, officials stated that the leadership team will continue to collaborate with regional mutual-aid partners and reflect experience from several businesses.

STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

V isit us online for more news around New Jersey!

www.1rbn.com MIKE NOWACKI

The Lincoln Engine Company of the Phillipsburg Fire Department still responds to calls with Engine 94-65, a 1999 Mack MR/Swab 1250/500 engine.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 13

At Least 80 Displaced in East Orange M u ltiple-A la rm EAST ORANGE, NJ - A basement fire in a seven-story apartment building on January 11th, sent smoke throughout the structure, prompt ing a three alarm re sponse to assist in evacuations and fire extinguishment. A second alarm was transmitted on arrival shortly b e fore 6:30 AM'at 85 Washington Street. Smoke vented from several floors o f the building with residents evacuating and others hanging out their windows. A third alarm three minutes later summoned additional units to the scene. Lines were stretched to the basement as firefighters brought residents out from all floors via the interior stairs as w ell as by aerial ladders. Five aerial ladders were extended and two more stood by ready if needed. The fire was quickly knocked down, but the smoke condition continued throughout. D ozens o f residents, as well as two firefight ers, were transported to the h os pital with non-life-threatening injuries. There were no fatalities. Reports state that over 80 resi dents were temporarily displaced. The cause is under investigation.

- BILL TOMPKINS

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PAGE 14

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Late-Afternoon House Fire in Carlstadt Claims One Life CARLSTADT, NJ - A late-aftemoon house fire claimed the life o f a Carlstadt resident on January 16th. Shortly after 4:00 p.m., fire fighters responded to 417 3rd St. for a reported house fire. Arriving A ssis tant C hief Walter Stankiewicz con firmed a working fire and quickly struck a second alarm, bringing mu tual aid companies to the scene. Heavy fire was already venting from the home through several second-floor windows. Handlines were stretched to the in terior, and companies made quick work o f knocking down the heavy fire within 20 minutes. Mutual aid from East Ruther ford, Hasbrouck Heights, Wallington, and Wood-Ridge assisted at the scene, along with the North Jersey County Fire Canteen and the Carlstadt Volunteer Ambu lance Corps. Bergen County Prosecutor’ s Deputy C hief o f Detectives Jeff Angermeyer said members o f his office’ s Arson Squad are investi gating the cause o f the fire with Carlstadt police. The fire appeared to have begun in the rear o f the second floor o f the home. One fire fighter suffered a minor injury.

- DAMIEN DANIS

DAMIEN DANIS

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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P A G E 16

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Early Alarm Lim its Damage in Egg Harbor

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Cr: MIKE NOWACKI

The Warren Chemical Engine Company of the Phillipsburg Fire Department still operates Engine 94-67, a 1994 Mack MC/Swab 1000/750 engine in frontline service. It is scheduled to be replaced in 2026 and will be reassigned to the department's reserve fleet.

EG G H ARBOR TWP, NJ - At 7:33 a.m. on January 5th, the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 and the Bargaintown Vol. Fire Co. were dis patched to a resi dence on West Kennedy Drive for a reported residential fire alarm activation. The alarm company advised that both a heat detector and hallway smoke alarm had activated, prompting a response that included patrol officers from the E gg Harbor Township Police Dept., who arrived to find light smoke coming from the unoccupied home. Rescue 1517 from Cardiff re sponded with a crew, and Cardiff Assistant Chief Craig Thompson ar rived on scene, assumed command, and declared a working fire. Mutual aid was requested from the Scullville Vol. Fire Co., the Atlantic City International Airport FD, and the Northfield City FD. Firefighters en countered heavy smoke from an at tached garage, made entry, extinguished the fire, checked for extension, and ventilated the resi dence. The fire was investigated by the E gg Harbor Township fire inves tigator, with no injuries reported. Firefighters were supported on scene by the E gg Harbor Township Rescue Squad and police. Damage was confined to the garage, credited to the early detection provided by the monitored fire alarm system.

-COURTESY OF CARDIFF VFC #1

CARDIFF VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY #1

ALL IN THE FAMILY If you have photos you would like to see in our “All in the Family”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Bloomfield Home Burns Twice BLOOMFIELD, NJ - Bloomfield firefighters, with assistance from second alarm mutual aid units, made quick work of an afternoon fire at 23 Walter Street on January 21st. Flames were showing from the "B" - "C" corner of the 2 1/2 story frame dwelling on the exterior, from the basement to the sec ond floor with extension to the interior. Belleville, Nutley, and Montclair assisted in bringing the fire under control in less than one hour with no reported injuries. Later at about 10:00 P.M., companies returned to 23 Walter Street and had a heavy smoke condition showing from behind the siding in the area of the original fire. Another second alarm was called for as members tore off much more siding and opened up. Once again, the fire was placed under control in less than one hour. The cause of both fires is under investigation.

JAM ES WOOD

The Felten Family at a recent fire in Passaic, (L to R): Kevin, his son Kevin, Jr., Michael, and his daughter Abigail. Both dads have over 30 years in the fire service. Kevin, Jr. has served for 5 and Abigail for 2.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

P A G E 17

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March, 2026

1st Responder 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

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New M ilfo rd F ire fig h te rs B a ttle Basem ent F ire NEW MILFORD, NJ - Fire fighters were toned out to 732 Berkely St. around 3:30 RM. on January 31 st for a report o f smoke in the home and a possible house fire. First arriving units were met with smoke showing and a con firmed basement fire. Command re quested the working fire assignment to be filled out, bring ing mutual aid from Dumont, Oradell, and River Edge to the scene. Engine 32 was first to arrive, wrapped the hydrant and stretched a 1.75" attack line to the side door access to the basement. A second line was stretched as the truck com pany made a search o f the home. Heavy smoke emitted from the front door, as well as multiple win dows on the first and second floors. Firefighters in the basement.

Jump t o f i i e #013126157

with little visibility, were making an attack as heavy fire vented from the basement window on the Delta side. Command ordered the evacu ation o f the house so companies could knock the fire from the exte rior and re-enter the basement. A third line was stretched and the heavy fire was knocked down from the exterior. Crews made an other interior attack and were able to knock the remaining fire in the basement with little extension to the upper floors. Firefighters re mained on scene to check for hot spots and extension. No injuries were reported, and the cause o f the fire is under investigation.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

DAMIEN DANIS

Saddle Brook Battalion Chief Andy Gallo and Ex-Chief Chris Sloma oversee operations at a car over an embankment incident in Saddle Brook on Rt 80 west, January 26th.

Rick Billings HYDRANTS LAMENT... THEY TEST ME IN THE SPRING EACH YEAR. THOUGH IVE NO /EhCH AN CE TO STUDY. I STAND ALONE J — - L ALL DAY AND @ f / A j [ > 0 NIGHT, WITH q V j h ? f f NO CHANCE OF A BUDDY...

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PAGE 19

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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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

Camden Battalion 1 chiefs respond to fires with this 2013 Chevy Tahoe.

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East Orange Engine Co. 2 was assigned this 1996 HME/Saulsbury 1750-gpm/750-gwt/50-foot squirt apparatus.

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March, 2026

Responder Newspaper - NJ

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Passaic Fire Dept. Swears-ln Seven New P robationary F irefighters PASSAIC, NJ - On January 16th, the City o f Passaic Fire D e partment proudly swore in seven new probationary firelighters under the leadership o f Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost and under the direction o f Chief Instructor Mandeville. The firefighters took the oath o f o f fice after success fully completing rigorous training at the Passaic County Fire Academy. Their training included ex tensive classroom instruction and hands-on experience designed to prepare them for the demands o f emergency service. Chief Trentacost congratulated the new firefighters and empha sized the importance o f profession alism, discipline, and service to the community as they begin their ca reers with the department. The Passaic honorable Mayor Hector Lora was there to swear the newly assigned firefighters with the oath o f office and gave them encouraging words o f the challeng ing tasks that they might face in their new career, and wished them the best o f luck.

- JAMES WOOD

JAMES WOOD

Firefighters Control Large Industrial Fire on Valley Road in Kenilworth KENILWORTH, NJ - The Roselle Park Fire Department was called to a reported fire at Cross field Products on Valley Road at 4:44 p.m. on January 1, 2026. When responders arrived, they dis covered a well-es tablished fire that eventually required a fifth alarm. Other mutualaid agencies and county resources from all around the area responded after the Kenilworth Fire Department and Rescue Squad were first on the scene. For several hours, firefight ers battled to contain the fire and stop it from spreading to neighbor ing buildings. No other buildings were damaged, and the fire was successfully restricted to the origi nal structure. While they waited for heavy machinery to securely handle the structure, crews stayed on the spot. Fire personnel worked with PSE&G to restore power to im pacted residents. There were no re ported injuries. .

- COURTESY OF KENIL WORTH FD AND RESCUE SQUAD KENILWORTH FD AND RESCUE SQUAD

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 23

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

GREEN KNOLL FIRE DEPARTMENT

Green Knoll Handles Highway Rollover LEONIA FIRE DEPARTMENT COMPANY NO. 1

BRIDGEWATER, NJ - On January 13th, the Green Knoll Fire Department was called to a reported car rollover on Interstate 287 heading north. When Engine 34-1 and Rescue 34 arrived, they dis covered that only one car was involved on the roadway. Firefighters stabilized the car, guarded the area, and looked for fuel and fire concerns. To control traffic and evaluate the situation, crews worked in tandem with EMS and law enforcement. While responders assessed the car and road conditions, operations concentrated on scene safety. Until the situation settled and the area was cleared, fire department personnel stayed on scene to assist with incident operations.

Company No. 1 of the Leonia Fire Department took a moment on January 8th to honor a departed member who gave their life while serving the community. On January 8, 1915, Firefighter John J. Bellerson passed away while performing his duties. Firefighter Bellerson's bravery and comm itment continue to play a significant role in the department's history. Generations of firefighters who came after him still remember his service more than a century later.

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PAGE 24

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Crews Control Duplex Fire on East Lincoln Avenue in Wildwood

CITY OF HACKENSACK FIRE DEPARTMENT

WILDWOOD, NJ - The firstalarm assignment was sent to the 100 block o f East Lincoln Avenue shortly before 1:30 p.m. on Janu ary 16th due to a re ported house fire. Chief 3 o f the City o f W ildwood Fire Department arrived at the scene and stated that smoke was com ing from a two-story duplex. In less than two minutes. Squad Company 3 (B Platoon) arrived and started looking for the fire's seat. Soon after. Ladder Company 2 o f the North W ildwood Fire D e partment arrived and helped with operations. Crews had to open the flooring in both apartments in order to access the fire, which was in the crawlspace and floor area be tween the two flats. In around 20 minutes, the fire was contained. Wildwood Crest Volunteer Fire Department (Tower 4), Rio Grande Fire Company (Quint 72), Stone Harbor Volunteer Fire Company #1, Villas Fire Company (Quint 60), and Stone Harbor Firefighters F M B A 151 (Engine 13) all offered mutual aid. Middle Township Am bulance Corps provided rehabilita tion services, while W ildwood Crest EMS supplied EMS support. W ildwood Public Works treated the road because o f the icy conditions, while Atlantic City Electric, South Jersey Gas, and the W ildwood Water Department re sponded to secure utilities. Scene

CITY OF WILDWOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT control was aided by the City o f W ildwood Police Department. No injuries were reported, and fire units operated on scene for approxi mately 1.5 hours. The incident re mains under investigation by the

WFD Fire Investigation Unit and the Cape May County Fire Mar shal’ s Office.

- COURTESY OF CITY OF WILDWOOD FD

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Vehicle Enters Hackensack River Near Court Street Bridge HACKENSACK, NJ - The City of Hackensack Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle in the Hackensack River on January 6th, near the Court Street Bridge. Crews arrived and verified that a car had gone into the river, trapping one per son inside. Rescue efforts were started by fire department personnel, who were successful in removing the person from the car. After that, the patient was moved to awaiting EMS units for assessment and treatment.

ELWOOD VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY - STATION 160

The Elwood Volunteer Fire Company marked a moment of reflection in January by highlighting one of its historic frontline apparatus, a 1975 Mack R pumper equipped with a 1991 Lee’s Emergency Equipment pump. Operated by Station 160, the engine served the Mullica Township community for decades, responding to countless emergencies and representing a generation of durable, hands-on firefighting equipment. The restored apparatus stands as a symbol of the department’s long-standing commitment to volunteer service, preserving the history of Elwood VFC while honoring the firefight ers who relied on the rig in service to their community.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 25

Victim Extricated in Collingswood Car Crash on Park Avenue COLLINGSW OOD, NJ - On January 17, 2026, at approxi mately 6:30 P.M., a vehicle was traveling west on Park Avenue, in the suburban Borough of Collingsw ood, and reportedly struck a parked car and came to rest in the middle o f the road in the 700 block o f Park Av Jum p t o fiie # enue. 012126142 An adult male and a child were in m i the vehicle. The child was removed ■& % and reportedly unin jured, but the adult needed to be extricated from the front passen ger compartment. The C ollin gsw ood Fire D e partment, along with Pennsauken FD and Westmont FC, were dis patched to the MVA rescue as signment. C ollin gsw ood FD was first to arrive and confirmed that one victim needed to be extricated from the front passenger compart ment. They immediately began their work using rescue tools to extri cate the victim through the pas senger side front door. They made quick work to access the victim where he was removed, packaged, and transported to a local hospital for treatment. FRANK SAIA

- FRANK SAIA Collingswood rescuers work to extricate victim from the vehicle. The victim was removed, packaged, transported to a local hospital.

FRANK SAIA

Collingswood, Pennsauken, and Westmont rescuers work to extricate the victim from the vehicle following an MVA on January 17, 2026, in Collingswood, NJ.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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.

DUMONT VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Dumont Ex-Chief and Chaplain, Kenny Florio, Celebrates 95th Birthday RON JEFFERS

North Hudson firefighters opened up many ceilings and walls during a labor intensive 3-alarm fire involving a large 2.5-story wood-frame dwelling on 11th. St., Union City, Jan. 14th. On the scene, witnesses reported that neighbors pulled out an occupant, as flames were venting out of the windows, before the arrival of the fire department. The victim was transported to a local hospital by city EMS.

DUMONT, NJ - On January 20th, the Dumont Volunteer Fire Department celebrated the 95th birthday of former chief and current department chaplain, Kenny Florio, marking a significant milestone. Over the course of his decades of service to the Dumont community, Kenny has demonstrated leadership, devotion, and a steadfast commitment to helping department mem bers. As the department's chaplain and previous chief, he has been instrumental in forming the organization and guiding successive generations of firemen. Members conveyed their gratitude for his lifetime service and the role he continues to play in the department.

ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our "‘On The Liter Side" feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey® lstResponderNews.com.

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H isto ric M ansion Damaged in Paterson Blaze

RON JEFFERS

"Stop! The Gong Club has the refreshments for this job! You can take up."

PATERSON, NJ - Listed on the National Registry o f Historic Places, the Barbour Mansion, a forty two room, twelve fireplace home with a built-in organ, was damaged in a two alarm fire on January 5th. The decades-long va cant building has been deteriorat ing along with the surrounding landscaping that covered over five acres at 855-889 Broadway. Fire units were dispatched at about 8:15 PM, and on arrival, flames were visible on the second

Jump t o f i i e #011026138

floor o f the “ B ”wing and extend ing to the roof and attic. A second alarm was transmitted. A narrow driveway only allowed Ladder 3 and Engine 1 to enter the property. Condition o f the structure and heavy fire through the roof had op erations goin g defensive quickly. One elevated master stream, one deck gun, and multiple exterior

hand lines were put into service. Companies were able to keep the flames from extending to the main part o f the building. By shortly after 10:00 PM, the main body o f fire was knocked down and members began overhaul. The cause was under investigation, but squatters and the hom eless has been a common problem. The fate o f the mansion continues to be un known.

- BILL TOMPKINS

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

P A G E 27

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.

MIDDLESEX COUNTY FIRE DUFFS

A 5-alarm inferno ripped through a warehouse in Roselle Park on New Year's Day.

FLAGTOWN FIRE/RESCUE - HILLSBOROUGH VOL. FIRE CO. #1

Hazmat Team A ssists w ith Fuel Leak M itig a tio n in H illsborough Twp. HILLSBOROUGH TWP., NJ - Crews from Station 37 were sent to Valley Road on January 10th for a reported tractor-trailer fire while Flagtown Fire/Rescue - Hillsborough Volunteer Fire Co. #1 units were responding to a fire alarm on the township's west side. Units were able to redirect to the working fire when it was established that the alarm event was unintentional. Due to travel distance, Station 38 was also sent out. As the first unit to arrive, Ladder 36 set up a hose line to darken the most of the fire. Engine 38 extended a second line from Ladder 36, and Tanker 37 set up a water supply. As suppression was finished, Neshanic Fire Company and Engine 36 helped open the cab.

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City firefighters quickly knocked down a heavy volume of fire venting out of a Bowers Street dwelling, that extended to the rear of Trinity Baptist Church, on January 12th. A second-alarm was transmitted upon arrival of Engine Co. 11. One firefighter was injured and transported to a local hospital.

KENILWORTH, NJ FIRE DEPT. AND RESCUE SQUAD

Crews Control W illow Avenue Structure Fire in Under One Hour RON JEFFERS

During a two-alarm fire on Bowers St., January 18th, the Jersey City Fire Department set up two command boards. One is assigned to manage fire ground operations with Deputy 1 and his aide. The other is designated to assist in safety operations and accounta bility with the Safety Battalion or his designated captain assigned for the tour. The fire involved a large dwelling with some extension into a nearby church.

KENILWORTH, NJ - On Friday afternoon, January 16th, the Kenilworth Fire Department and Rescue Squad was dispatched as auto-aid to the 500 block of Willow Avenue for a reported structure fire. When Kenilworth Ladder Truck 3 got on the scene, Division 2 windows at the CD corner building were displaying considerable smoke and fire. Crews searched the fire location and started fire suppression operations right away. The situation led to the incident being up graded to a second-alarm assignment, which brought more personnel to the scene. In less than one hour, firefighters collaborated with the Roselle Park Fire Department to contain the fire. Later, while overhaul work was underway, Kenilworth workers were tasked with using Roselle Park's ladder truck to ventilate the roof.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Early-Morning Garage Fire Damages Maple Shade Home MAPLE SHADE, NJ - On January 23, 2026 at approxi mately 5:27 AM., the Burlington County Fire Alarm R oom d is patched the Maple Shade Fire D e partment and mutual aid units to 62 W. W oodcrest Avenue in Maple Shade for the report o f a dwelling fire. M aple Shade Fire Chief, Andrew Simonsick, arrived and reported heavy fire showing from the garage and ex tending to the sec ond floor of a 2-story, single-family dwelling. Cherry Hill FD Engine 1352 was the first engine company to arrive, and quickly stretched a 1 3/4”handline to attack the fire. They made a quick hit o f the garage and then m oved to the in terior to halt the rapid fire spread. Other units arrived soon after and stretched additional lines to extinguish the fire. M oorestown’ s Lenola Ladder Company raised their main to make a roof cut. The searches were negative, significant overhaul was per formed, and the fire was brought under control within an hour.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

A firefighter takes a quick look out of the window to get a visual on fire spread at this fire at 62 W. Woodcrest Avenue, Maple Shade on January 23, 2026.

U -H A U L BIGHT EQUIPMENT /

LOWEST CO ST

FRANK SAIA

Crews work to control the fire at 62 W. Woodcrest Avenue, Maple Shade on January 23, 2026.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 29

JOBS and the firemen who fought them ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky

JOBS and the firemen who fought them By Frank Saia Available from: FSP Books 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, M AO 1749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@fire-policeems.com www. fire -police -ems .com Price: $60.00 This is a hard cover coffee table book measuring 9 inches by 12 inches, with 217 pages. The author is a correspondent for 1st Responder News. I do not know him personally, but see his photos in the N ew Jersey edition o f the paper quite often. He is a retired battalion chief from the Camden, NJ Fire Department and has a full page to tell the reader about him self. He is an excellent fire and apparatus photographer who takes pictures as a labor o f love, which will be evident to every reader. A G od Fearing Man (after my own heart), the b ook is en

tirely o f both black and white, as w ell as color photos o f Philadel phia, Camden and other N ew Jer sey towns within the area. Some o f the photos include single shots o f firefighters o f all ranks with their names as w ell as groups o f them posing for his camera. Many o f the photos name the individuals in them. The photos are from all different times. One group is from the Cam pbell Soup Company which is in Camden. If you never knew that they had a fire, well they did in 1992 that went to three alarms. Sears Roebuck, a massive com plex in Philadelphia also had a fire in 1994 that went to four alarms. Also, One Meridian Plaza in Philadelphia (1991), in which three firefighters died, is covered. The PFD actually stretched five inch hose into the building under the direction o f the fire com m is sioner. The story o f the “ Fire Pole” which originated in Chicago back in the days o f horses, is on page 95 along with a photo o f the fire pole in Camden E-7’ s quarters. He is a family man fully supported by his w ife in living his dream, and by his daughter, who is a firefighter/EMT in Westmont where they reside. His daughter is featured in several photos on page 87. If you are fire service oriented, you w ill enjoy this b ook where both career and volunteer fire de partments are featured.

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MARGATE CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Gas Leak Prompts Evacuations and Road Closures in Margate City MARGATE CITY, NJ - At ap proximately 9:20 a.m. on January 9th, the Margate City Fire Depart ment responded to the unit block of South Granville Av enue for a reported high-pressure gas leak. Firefighters ar rived, assessed the situation, and evacu ated a one-block ra dius for safety reasons. Evacuations included businesses along Ventnor Avenue— Casel’ s Marketplace, D ino’ s, Jagielky’ s, and Talk o f the Towne— as well as homes on South Granville Avenue, even-numbered residences on South Gladstone Avenue, and oddnumbered residences on South Haverford Avenue. Crews stretched a 21 /2-inch hoseline and secured a water supply to Engine 22. The leak was shut down by a gas company crew about 45-50 minutes after the problem began. Firefighters remained on the scene for a subsequent leak near Granville and Ventnor avenues, checking impacted buildings with a gas company representative to en sure no dangers remained. Ross and Tighe schools were contacted and pupils were kept in doors due to citywide gas smells. Eleven firemen responded to the scene, with four off-duty personnel called in to cover further calls. The Margate City Police Department, Margate City Public Works Depart ment, and South Jersey Gas C om pany all provided assistance. The incident occurred during city road work on Granville Avenue, and all fire units cleared at 11:40 a.m.

- COURTESY OF MARGATE CITY FD

MARGATE CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

PAGE 30

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Woman Rescued from Passaic Third Alarm House Fire PASSAIC, NJ — At approxi mately 5:45 a.m. on January 9th, Passaic police received multiple calls reporting a lire at 160 Hope Ave. A responding police unit con firmed heavy black smoke coming from the rear win dows o f the home. Battalion Chief Kovacs arrived on scene and was in formed that a woman was still in side the residence on the second floor. As fire units arrived, a search crew was im mediately deployed to locate her. The woman was found, removed from the home, and transported to St. Mary’ s Hospital for treatment o f smoke inhalation. One firefighter was injured but was later released. Nine people were displaced by the fire. Two neighboring homes sustained minor damage, and their residents were able to return inside. The fire caused significant damage to the second floor and attic o f the home and was upgraded to a third alarm. Fire departments from Passaic County and Bergen County assisted Passaic units in battling the blaze. The fire was turned over to the department’ s investigation team to determine the cause.

- JAMES WOOD

v . ' . - . i ' . * ' ! ?MAW’ ILMI-w**,

—

JAMES WOOD

M ulti-Agency Response Contains Camper Fire Near Residence in W alpack Twp. WALPACK TOWNSHIP, NJ On January 19th, a suspected RV camper fire prompted the Sandyston Township Fire Department Station 38 to go to Walpack Township. A firstalarm assignment re sulted from reports that ranged from a camper fire to a p o tential residential structure fire while Engine 38-2 was on its way, according to Sussex County Sheriffs 911. Because o f the inconsistent in formation and travel distance, Frankford, Milford, and Montague were asked for more engines and tankers. When crews arrived, they discovered a fully engaged camper about 30-feet from a house, several cars close by, and a 250-gallon propane tank starting to catch fire. In a matter o f minutes, fire fighters extended an initial handline and put out the majority o f the fire, preventing it from spreading to the house. Units worked with EMS and law enforcement.

- COURTESY OF SANDYSTON TWP. FD

SANDYSTON TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT STATION 38

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 31

DAMIEN DANIS

FRANKLIN PARK VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY - STATION 31

FRANKUN PARK VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY - STATION 31

M u ltip le Agencies Operate at Franklin Township Thick Fire FRANKLIN PARK, NJ - On January 16th, a reported truck fire at South Middlebush Road and Route 27 prompted the Franklin Park Volunteer Fire Company-Station 31 to respond alongside Franklin Fire District 2 and the Franklin Township Bureau of Fire Prevention. Deputy Chief 31 took leadership as Car 31-2 arrived first. With a crew of six, Engine 31 re sponded and used a 1Vi-inch hose line to contain the fire. Traffic control was handled by units from the South Brunswick Police Department and the Franklin Township Po lice Department. Environmental conditions were observed by the Somerset County HazMat Team. Utility 31, Engine 35, fire safety staff, and NJDOT were additional units.

Passaic Battles Second Multi-Alarm Blaze in Two Bays PASSAIC, NJ -Two firefighters were injured and at least 17 tenants were displaced by a blaze in Passaic in the afternoon o f January 10th. Members of Truck Co. 1 were re turning from a fol low-up check o f another fire the day before on Hope Av enue when they saw smoke coming from the rear o f the Quincy Street build ing around 1:15 p.m. A box was struck for 46 Quincy Ave., reporting a fire, which appar ently began on the second floor and was extending to the upper floor. Flames had run up the walls from the second floor to the top floor and cockloft by the time additional companies arrived, and a second alarm was struck. As conditions started to worsen a third alarm was transmitted, bringing additional mu tual aid companies to the scene. Labor-intensive inside work by fire fighters began to help get an upper hand on the blaze. Ceilings and walls had to be checked for further fire extension. The fire was placed under con trol in an hour and a half. One fire fighter sustained a shoulder injury and another firefighter suffered a back injury. Both were treated at St. Mary's General Hospital in Passaic and released, fire officials said. All residents got out safely and without injury. Mutual aid companies from Pa terson, Clifton, Carlstadt, East Rutherford, Garfield, Rutherford and Wallington assisted on the scene while the North Jersey Fire Canteen Unit also responded for rehab oper ations.

- DAMIEN DANIS

DAMIEN DANIS

PA GE 32

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Alternate Careers in the Fire Service IN THE FIRE ZONE JOSEPH CEA

The first occupation that in evitably comes to mind when thinking of the fire service is fire fighter and for obvious reasons. Firefighter positions are varied and can be divided in a couple different ways. First by separat ing the volunteer from the career side but this title can also be di vided into interior, exterior and wildland. However, once you venture into working with “Old Man Fire” what becomes appar ent is that there are a multitude of other different titles within the fire service. Interestingly enough is that both the public and private sector have an equal claim to alternative fire service careers. Access to these other fire serv ice careers typically start out as firefighters i.e. you would have to train and, in some cases, work as a firefighter before being able to accept other posi tions and responsibilities. This is because being a firefighter provides a solid foundational understanding of fire emergen cies that can then be applied to other positions based also on future training and education. If we are just talking about and starting with career firefighting most if not all of the titles de fined here are just simply ad vancement and not necessarily an “alternate career”. This arti cle, however will focus on de scribing several fire service titles but from the perspective of someone transitioning into the fire service from a previously chosen and different career path. The volunteer fire service is ac tually very good in this regard. Volunteers can not only con tinue in their chosen careers but also be firefighters thus building up training and experience to advance in the fire service. For example, training classes can be taken to advance into several ti tles such as fire instructor, safety officer, fire investigator, fire marshal and fire inspector while still working your “day job”. For the purpose of this ar ticle the titles listed here are based on actual positions within

New York State and may vary slightly in other states. Let’s briefly take a look at a few: Fire Instructor: The primary re sponsibilities being instructing and teaching courses in firefight ing. Typically, instructors are provided with a set curriculum that must be followed. A back ground in education and/or coursework as a fire instructor is required. Most fire instructors are employed at the state or county level. In some states (Pennsylvania comes to mind) fire instructors work out of com munity colleges. Fire Investigator: This title fo cuses on the cause and origin of a fire. Investigators would deter mine if arson was involved as well and possibly testify in court. This can be a public or private sector position with insurance companies hiring within the lat ter. Fire Inspector: Inspectors are in volved in compliance with fire codes. The responsibilities of a fire inspector can also be inte grated in other titles from code enforcement officer to fire pro tection specialists and even parking enforcement officer with respect to ensuring compliance with fire lanes and hydrants. Safety Officer: Individuals work ing under this title would moni tor, assess and mitigate hazardous situations on the fireground ensuring personnel safety Fire Marshal (specific to the New York Racing Association NYRA): The Fire Marshal reports to the NYRA Fire Inspector (Chief) and is responsible for en suring full compliance with Na tional Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and New York State Building Codes as they pertain to fire safety. Key responsibilities in clude fire prevention and inspec tion, emergency management and response and fire code com pliance and reporting. Fire Coordinator: In NYS each county has a regional coordina tor that manages inspectors, in vestigators and training opportunities. The top position is the only paid position while all other deputy coordinators are volunteer. Dispatcher: Answers emergency

and non-emergency calls, dis patches appropriate resources, communicates with the public and other first responders. They may provide life-saving instruc tions to callers. Maintain accu rate logs of calls, incident times and locations. So, what is the first step? What if you finally decide to take the plunge into the fire service and potentially changing your occu pation or at the very least sup plementing your current career. Start with some online research. Typically, you can find educa tion, training and experience re quirements for a position of interest at your states and/or county fire service website. NYS Fire Coordinators website (NYSFCA.org) along with the NYS As sociation of Fire Chiefs (https //www. nysfirechiefs.com/) are also good starts. Addition ally, the National Fire Academy (https://www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/) has great information on fire service careers including a num ber of free online courses.

Always a firefighter, Joseph circa 1974 (age 3).

PROVIDED

On the private side visit the Fire Safety Research Institute at https://fsri.org/, Firefighter Asso ciation of the State of New York (Fasny.com) and the New York Racing Association (NYRA.com). For the latter Contact Adam Brement (NYRA Fire Inspector) at 516-408-2924 and/or ABrement@nyrainc.com for more in formation on current positions. Next start making some phone calls. Talk to others that have joined the fire service and/or have used the volunteer fire service to advance and transition their profession. Lastly, visit your local firehouse and talk to an officer to start the ball rolling by applying. Membership in a local volunteer fire company will allow you to start building your fire service resume that will eventually lead to being qualified to apply for any of the listed po sitions and then some. Using my own story, like most kids I had wanted to be a fire fighter but life has a funny way of coming at you sometimes and didn’t become a volunteer until age 46. By then opportunities as a career firefighter had passed me by. Luckily, a passion for the fire service could still be satis fied with other, alternate posi tions. As a volunteer I took classes to build my fire service portfolio to the point of being qualified to work under several

PROVIDED

(L to R): Joseph's fiance, Joseph, and NYRA Fire Marshal JD Cea (Joseph's son). of the titles listed here. Changing careers can be risky as there are so many unknowns and there would a lot of factors to weigh. It can certainly affect your financial situation; retire ment plans as well as personal and family relationships to name

a few. Start by asking yourself “Would I be happier staying in my current career or starting over in the fire service.” Just like on the fireground though, be de cisive and don’t wait. In the end the fire service represents a number of challenging careers and the risk is worth the reward.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Four Alarm Fire Strikes Vacant Red Flea Market in Camden CAMDEN, NJ - On January 3, 2026 at approximately 7:44 P.M., the Camden County Fire Alarm R oom transmitted a box for the Camden Fire Department for the report o f a fire at the Red Flea Mar ket building at 2820 Mt. Ephraim Av enue. The old Red Flea Market build ing was a large, one-story com m er cial building. The building had been vacant and vandalized for several years and was boarded up. The front section o f the building was most problematic, as it was a w ooden structure with w ood inte rior partitions and w ood r oof components. The rear part o f the building was o f non-combustible construction and with little con tents. First arriving units reported fire through the r oof in the front section o f the building. Engine Co. 10 was the first due engine and quickly engaged in the fire fight by stretching a 2 1/2”handline. Squad C o 7 was next to ar rive and quickly went to work with placing their Blitzfire appli ance to work. First due chief, Camden Bat talion Chief, Mike Miller, re quested the second alarm within a few minutes to bring in addi tional units for water supply and master streams. The fire was very advanced and ladder companies were placed around the building to hit the fire from an elevated position in an attempt to stop the progression o f fire. Farge volumes o f water were needed to supply the master streams that surrounded the build ing, and there was some delay as water had to be resourced from several blocks away involving long hose lays. Camden Fire Chief, Jesse Flax, arrived, assumed command and ultimately transmitted the third and fourth alarms before placing the fire under control at approximately 9:27 RM. Farge areas o f the building collapsed and firefighters re mained on location for several hours continuing to hose down hot spots. Two firefighters were reported injured with non-lifethreatening injuries. Camden, Camden County, and State agen cies are investigating the fire.

FRANK SAIA

Camden FF Anthony Hairston waiting for water to the Blitzfire appliance during the early stage of the fire. This vacant food market and flea market building at 2820 Mt. Ephraim Avenue, Camden, NJ on January 3, 2026, went to 4 alarms before be brought under control.

- FRANK SAIA

FRANK SAIA

The Gloucester City Truck Company waits for a water supply to do its aerial work as fire made its way through the roof of 2820 Mt. Ephraim Avenue, Camden, NJ on January 3, 2026.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 35

FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

TOWN OF WESTFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT

TOWN OF WESTFIELD, NJ FIRE DEPARTMENT

Robert Sawicki, Deputy Chief and Emergency Medical Technician, was honored by the Town of Westfield, N J Fire Department for his 22 years of devoted service. Since his hiring on January 1, 2004, Deputy Chief Sawicki has worked for the Westfield community in a number of operational and leadership capacities. He is currently assigned to the Administration Division of the department, where he continues to assist with long-term planning and day-to-day operations.

TOWN OF WESTFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT

Westfield Fire Department Accepts Historic Landmark Plaque WESTFIELD, N J - On January 12th, the Town of Westfield, NJ Fire Department thanked the Westfield Historic Preservation Commission for recognizing Fire Headquarters as a local historic landmark. At its recent 150th anniversary, the department was honored to receive a commem orative plaque commemorating this title. For almost a century, Fire Headquarters, which was constructed in 1910, has been a vital element of both the department and the community. The structure contributed to the town's expansion and prosperity and served as a reminder of West field's early dedication to protecting people and property.

CITY OF WILDWOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has chosen retired chief Dan Speigel to receive this year's Arthur J. Glatfelter Distin guished Service Award. The City of Wildwood Fire Department congratulates him on his selection. The award is named for Arthur J. Glatfelter, who founded Volunteer Fireman's Insurance Services (VFIS), the first organization devoted to providing insurance for volunteer firemen, and was a longtime supporter of the fire serv ice. It is regarded as one of the National Fallen Firefighters Foun dation's most esteemed awards.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Bergenfield Firefighters B attle House Fire in Freezing Temperatures BERGENFIELD, NJ - Fire fighters faced freezing tempera tures as they battled a house fire late Monday night, January 26th. Around 9:40 .M., Bergenfield Firefighters, along with automatic aid from Dumont, was dispatched to 166 West Main St. for a re ported house fire. Chief Zadrozna arrived on scene with smoke showing from the second floor o f a two-and-a-half-story frame. En gine 1 arrived on scene and stretched a 1.75" through the front door. A water supply was estab lished and members from Engine 3 and Dumont Engine 5 assisted with interior operations. As interior crews made a push to the second floor, heavy smoke follow ed by heavy fire began to

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vent from the Bravo side window on the second floor. Interior crews continued to push to the fire room and were able to knock down the heavy fire. A second line was stretched as Englewood's ladder took the r o o f and opened up for vertical ventilation. The fire was under control within 30 minutes. No injuries were reported, and the cause is under investigation. N ew M ilford assisted on scene as the FAST team.

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WORKING FACES

March, 2026

PAGE 37

LITTLE BIG GUYS

I f you have ph otos you w ou ld like to see in our “W orking F aces”feature, please upload them on our website, w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or email them to L indsey@ lstR espon derN ew s.com

I f you have ph otos you w ou ld like to see in our Little B ig G uys feature, please upload them on o u r w e b s it e w w w .lstR esp on derN ew s.com or em ail them to L in d sey @ lstR e sp on d e rN e w s.com .

In Monmouth County, the Middletown Township Fire Police operate unit 430. It has a 2012 Ford F-550 XL Super Duty chassis with Reading body. It is powered by a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. The cab has five seats. Equipment includes a Warn six-ton winch, stop sign bases, caution tape, temporary stop signs, an arrow stick, delineators, zephyr bases, scene lights and a chainsaw.

FRANK SAIA C herry Hill FD S afety Officer, Lt. Sean M cG ow an, at the M aple Shade fire at 62 W. W o odcrest Avenue on January 23, 2026.

JOHN M. MALECKY M iddletow n Tow nship Fire Police Unit 430, 2012 Ford F-550 XL, Super Duty w ith Reading Body. It has a six-ton W arn w inch.

JOHN M. MALECKY FRANK SAIA Cinnam inson Lt. CJ Ricciuti at the w orking fire at 62 W. W oodcrest Avenue, M aple Shade on January 23, 2026.

Right/rear of M iddletow n Tow nship Fire Police Unit 430.

PAGE 38

March, 2026

1st Responder 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

MARTY PELTA

First two lines attempting to get to fire in back of truck.

Fair Lawn Handles Fully Loaded Trash Truck Fire

FRANK SAIA

Maple Shade FD Chaplain, Pastor Vince McDonald and Moorestown FD FF/Chaplain Rudy Thomas at the working fire at 62 W. Woodcrest Avenue, Maple Shade on January 23, 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Cherry Hill FD BC Jason Houck assisted with command and control duties at the working fire at 62 W. Woodcrest Avenue, Maple Shade on January 23, 2026.

FAIR LAWN, NJ - On January 24th at 9:55A.M., Fair Lawn Fire Dept. Companies 2, 3 and 4, and Fair Lawn Heavy Rescue, Fair Lawn Ambulance Corps and D PW re sponded to a garbage truck fire on Broad way in Fair Lawn. The driver o f the truck was traveling on Broadway when he observed flames com ing from the top o f his vehicle. The truck, ow ned by Interstate Waste Services, was fully loaded with compacted cardboard for recycling. The driver pulled into the vacant parking lot o f the closed Boston Market Restaurant and attempted to dump the load. The hydraulics on the truck failed and he was unable to offload. Ladder #2 responded and set up an aerial operation to try to access the fire from above. After approxi mately one hour, the D PW was called and responded with a front end loader, which was able to raise the rear compactor door o f the tmck to get to the seat o f the fire. The Fair Lawn Ambulance Corps, responded with their "heat wagon" forced air propane heat sys tem and set up a rehab tent for warming, as the temperature was hovering around 15-degrees. The extended operation took more than 3 hours to fully extin guish the fire. The trash hauler suf fered extensive damage to the body. Interstate Waste Services responded with a loader and a large dumpster to removed the debris strewn in the parking lot. The D PW also re sponded to salt the area due to ex cess water. There were no injuries reported.

MARTY PELTA

Ladder 2 aiming their water cannon into the body of the truck. - MARTIN PELTA

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 39

DRILLS FROM AROUND THE STATE To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

CAPE MAY FIREFIGHTERS

CRANFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

CAPE MAY, NJ - A training session on trauma rules and helicopter landing zone safety was attended by Cape May firefighters in December.

CRANFORD, NJ - Together with the Cranford First Aid Squad, the Cranford Fire Department finished combined vehicle extrication training on January 18th.

NETCONG FIRE COMPANY NO. 1

FRANKFORD TOW NSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

NETCONG, NJ - Netcong Fire Company recently held an internal training session with a focus on equipment preparedness and firefighter skills.

FRANKFORD TWP., NJ - Pump training and hose line deployments were conducted by Frankford Twp. Fire Department personnel for several hours in January.

FLAGTOWN FIRE/RESCUE - HILLSBOROUGH VOL. FIRE CO. #1

VERNON TWP. FIRE DEPARTMENT CO. #1

HILLSBOROUGH TWP., NJ - Flagtown Fire/Rescue - Hillsborough Vol. Fire Co. #1 crews used the department's forced entry simulator to conduct practical drills and helped new hires with probationary task book checkoffs.

VERNON TWP., NJ - On January 14th, members of the Vernon Twp. FD Co. #1 joined personnel from three neighboring departments for a joint ice rescue training drill.

PAGE 40

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

DRILLS FROM AROUND THE STATE To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindseyw! lstResponderNews.com.

FORKED RIVER, NJ - January 17 - Members of the Wall Town ship Fire Department and the Whiting Fire Company participated in cooperative ice rescue training with the Forked River Fire De partment in January.

LAFAYETTE TOWNSHIP VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

LAFAYETTE TWP., NJ - The Lafayette Township Volunteer Fire Department held a vehicle extrication training program aimed at strengthening skills, teamwork, and operational safety in winter circum stances. FORKED RIVER FIRE DEPARTMENT

DEEPWATER FIRE DEPARTMENT

DEEPWATER, NJ - The Deepwater Fire Department used a donated vehicle from Scott's Auto to un dertake practical vehicle rescue training in January.

FORKED RIVER FIRE DEPARTMENT MCAFEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

MCAFEE, NJ - In January, the McAfee Fire Department participated in a collaborative four-company ice and cold water rescue training exercise.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

PAGE 41

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

APPARATUS IN ACTION I f y o u h a v e p h o to s y o u w o u ld lik e to s e e in ou r A p pa ra tu s in A ctio n fea tu re p le a s e u p lo a d th em on o u r w e b s it e w w w . ls tR e sp o n d e r N e w s . c o m o r e m a il th em to L in d s e y @ ls t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m .

CADEN GALLAGHER

(Lto R): Lieutenants Christopher Husslein, Brady Gallagher, Steve Naylis, Nick Chriscoulo, Captain Kristel Mockler, Deputy Chief Chris Reilly, and Chief Charles Anders IX.

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City Engine 11's 2020 Pierce Enforcer 2000-gpm pumper gets sprayed by the fire hydrant that the rig is hooked up to during a 2-alarm fire on Bowers Street, January 12th. Luckily, the temper ature was 37 degrees, and no ice.

OTFD Installs 2026 Fire Officers The O ld Tappan Volunteer Fire Department's Line (Firefight ing) O fficers were officially in stalled at the January 2026 meeting o f the Mayor and C oun cil. Sworn in by Old Tappan Mayor Tom Gallagher were. Chief o f Department Charles Anders IX, Deputy C h ief Chris Reilly, C ap tain Kristel Mockler, and L ieu tenants N ick Chriscoulo, Steve Naylis, Brady Gallagher and Christopher Fiusslein. The Chiefs and Captain nor mally will assume a higher super visory position such as Incident

TO f il e #011526122

af I Commander and/or Operations Commander at fires and emergen cies. The Lieutenants are charged with the immediate supervision and leadership o f the Department's Firefighters as they carry out the six Firefighting Functions: 1. Stretching and operating hose lines. 2. Forcible Entry. 3. Search and Rescue. 4. Laddering.

5. Ventilation. 6. Overhaul. C hief Anders and the Depart ment wish to remind all O ld Tappan residents to know two ways out o f their residence in the event o f a fire and, during this winter season, to shovel out the fire hy drant closest to their home after any signifcant snowfall, help us, to help you!

- BILLAUTH

MARTY PELTA

MIDDLESEX COUNTY FIRE RUFFS

Union Fire Department (Union County, NJ) using its aerial mas ter-stream at a 5th alarm warehouse fire in Roselle Park on New Year's Day.

Paterson Handles Large Dumpster Fire PATERSON, NJ - On January 21st at approximately 9:45 A.M., Paterson FD Squad 6, Ladder 2 and BC Scherer responded to the report of a dumpster fire on Getty Ave., near the Southside Firehouse. On arrival, units encountered a 30-yard dumpster located in the roadway in front of a scrap metal yard. Initial attack was to the contents, which were still inside the dumpster. Ul timately, the dumpster had to be placed on the bed of the trash hauler to be offloaded onto the roadway to extinguish the fire. There were no injuries and the roadway was reopened in about one hour. There were no injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

March, 2026

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HONORS & PROMOTIONS I f y o u h a v e p h o to s y o u w o u ld lik e to s e e in ou r H o n o r s & P r o m o tio n s feature, p le a s e u p lo a d th em o n ou r w e b s it e w w w . ls tR e sp o n d e r N e w s . c o m o r e m a il th em to L in d s e y @ ls t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m .

CONGRATULATIONS! llEF O F T H E D E P A R T M E N T

!hawnTilt I C h ie f

randeris Ai

RONJEFFERS DAMIEN DANIS

In January, Ed Tanderis was promoted to Assistant Chief in the Wallington Fire Department.

Kitten Saved in Fair Lawn House Fire FAIR LAWN, NJ - The Fair Lawn Fire Department was dis patched to a report o f smoke com ing from a house at 13-43 3rd street at 9:55 RM. on the evening o f January 21 st. Upon arrival. C hief Mike Salvini transmitted a general alarm. A second alarm was struck to provide coverage in the fire houses. The fire was located in a bedroom on the second floor, with fire showing out o f the top floor window. Three officers from the Fair Lawn Police Department made entry into the smoke-filled build ing and successfully located the family’ s kitten, reuniting it with its family. The fire was declared under control after approximately 35 minutes. One police officer was trans ported to an area hospital for

TO file #012226154

aP I » smoke inhalation as a precaution. One resident was also treated on the scene for smoke inhalation, but did not require hospitalization. The Fair Lawn Rescue Squad, Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corp, Fair Lawn Police Depart ment, and Fair Lawn O ffice o f Emergency Management also as sisted on the scene. Providing mu tual aid coverage were E lm w ood Park, Glen Rock, Paramus, and Saddle Brook Fire Departments, while Paterson responded to the scene as a FAST team. The fire is under investigation by the Fair Lawn Fire Prevention Bureau.

- DAMIEN DANIS

RONJEFFERS In Wallington, Anthony Rispoli was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief, January 3rd.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

M utual Aid Brings S tructure Fire Under C ontrol in P ittsgrove Twp. PITTSGROVE TWP., NJ - On January 1st, in the Holly Tree Acres neighborhood o f Pittsgrove Township, the Norma-Alliance Volunteer Fire Rescue and mutual aid partners responded to a re ported structure lire with numerous ex posures on Applew ood Lane. Captain 24 took charge when first-due units verified that the fire was operational. There were as signments for en gines, tenders, ladders, rescues, and a fast inter vention crew. While tanker opera tions supported the water supply, firefighters used both 2 1 /2-inch and P/4-inch handlines. While EMS and fire police assisted with opera tions, crews covered adjacent ex posures and searched for extensions. At 12:29 P.M., the fire was contained. Units were released, and no firefighter injuries were re ported. The Salem County Fire Po lice and the N ew Jersey State Police are investigating the fire.

- COURTESY OF NORMAALLIANCE VOL. FIRE RESCUE NORMA-ALLIANCE VOL. FIRE RESCUE

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March, 2026

PAGE 45

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES I f y ou h ave p h o to s y ou w o u ld like to s e e in o u r “B roth ers & S isters o f the E m e r g e n c y S e n d e e s ”feature, p le a se u p loa d them on our w eb site, w w w .ls tR e sp o n d e r N e w s .c o m or em ail them to L i n d s e y @ ls t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m .

RON JEFFERS

On January 12th, the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue held a promotional ceremony at the Waterside restaurant in North Bergen. Representatives of the five municipalities that are protected by the department were in attendance as Chief of Department David Donnarumma swore in the members to their new ranks. The new Battalion Chiefs are Michael Mastellone, Markus Rehfeld and Steven Wojtowicz. New Captains are Bryce Jacobs, Victor Ramos, Rafal Milikand Elvis Pena.

HIGIfl-ANDS NJ FIRE DEPARTMENT (STATION 17-1)

Rudy Trivett, Sr. was sworn in as fire chief for the third time in his career by the Highlands, NJ Fire Department. He took the oath of office in front of family members at the ceremony.

HOPE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT - STATION 38

On the night of December 14, 2025, members of the Hope Volunteer Fire Department Station 38 met in the firehouse for their annual Christmas dinner, which was attended by family members and de partment supporters. During the occasion, Mike Marino, assistant chief, was awarded a plaque com memorating his 10 years as department chief. The award acknowledged his long-term dedication and leadership within the company. Chief Pedersen addressed the crowd and thanked the firemen for their service over the year.

The town's Fire Department's 2026 officers were sworn in by Mayor Peter Calamari to kick off the new year. The mayor congratulated the department's leadership team for their ongoing community service and administered the oath of office to them during the event. Chief Frank Aiello, Deputy Chief Chris Campo, Battalion Chief Christopher Meier, Captain Tie Stutzer, 1st Lieutenant Keith Mahoney, 2nd Lieutenant Scott Meier, 3rd Lieutenant Tim Meier, and 4th Lieutenant Orion Gruenberg are among the officers sworn in for 2026.

FRANK SAIA

Camden FD Deputy Chief Jose Berrios, assists with incident command and control at the 4th alarm building fire at 2820 Mt. Ephraim Avenue on January 3, 2026.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

Letter to a friend we let them affect our lives that re ally matters. You are better than they think. They do not see your true p o tential. You may have dreams, while you sleep, that may seem real. Is there something that you need to do that is now eating at you? Or are you seeing something about the future? You get inspiration to do something or a warning. Let's hope we remem ber what we need to. I watch as you go through your challenges and many times, I see some o f the same things that I have lived through. It is when we have walked similar paths that we develop empathy and be there to support one another. I know that at times, you may be depressed and want to give up but I ask you to press on and fight the good fight. Sure, take a little time to lick your wounds and regroup for your next attack on life but don't give up. You have no idea who is watching you and what example that you are setting for the person who says nothing but only watches you. You are my dear friend, and I have watched how you have grown. Lean into Psalms. Know that the fight is not over yet because God has not called you home. You still have a mission. Your work is not done. You have not finished effecting peo ple's lives and have not met all the people that G od wants you to meet.

Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh

My friend,

MIDDLESEX COUNTY FIRE DUFFS

Protection Fire Company #1 (Keasbey, Woodbridge Township, NJ) recently placed Engine 4-2 in service.

I know that you have gone through tough times. Your marriage was tough, and it did not last. Sometimes, we go through this for reasons that we cannot figure out. I know that many times we hear peo ple say that we should stay together but sometimes we are abused. You have been betrayed by someone that was close to you, and you trusted this person. Many times, we would not want to forgive this person, but you have risen above it and continue to show love to them. I know that you are uncomfort able being around people. I know that at times most if not all o f us feel that way one time or another. There are times when we need to be present not only to help others but also ourselves. Someone told you that you did not have the skill or talent to do what you felt in your heart to do. There are people that always try to put us down. Are they jealous or just mean spirited? There are times that if we are willing to learn, we can be very successful. I f we let others speak into our lives, we need to make sure that we have the right people, and that includes what we tell ourselves. People who may be challenging may be put into our lives. It is how

Have faith. G od loves you and so do I. Blessings, Didymus McHugh didy mus-mchugh. com

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March, 2026

PAGE 47

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

DENNIS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

Dennis Crews Handle M u lti-A p p a ra tu s Response in South S e aville

CITY OF HACKENSACK FIRE DEPARTMENT

DENNISVILLE, NJ - Units o f the Dennis Volunteer Fire C om pany responded to an incident in Dennis Township's South Seaville neighborhood on D ecem ber 21, 2025. Engine 18, Ladder 18, Tanker 18, and Squad 18 were sent to the area. Crews were given operational responsibilities depending on inci dent demands after com pleting a

to file #122925104

39 £ » scene size-up upon arrival. In ad dition to supporting fireground ac tivities and ensuring the area was safe for responding personnel and the general public, firefighters worked to control hazards. Throughout the response, effective

resource use was made possible by coordination between the many pieces o f equipment. Until m issions were finished and the situation stabilized, units stayed on the scene.

- COURTESY OF DENNIS VOL. FIRE CO.

The City of Hackensack Fire Department recognized two officer promotions during a recent City Council meeting, marking an im portant leadership update within the department. During the City of Hackensack City Council meeting, Captain Hilliard and Lieu tenant Kavanagh took the oath of office. The advancements, ac cording to department officials, demonstrate the fire department's ongoing leadership growth and operational preparedness. Local fire service supporters, department employees, and city officials all attended the occasion. Members of Hackensack Fire Fighters IAFF Local 2081 and Hackensack Fire Officers IAFF Local 3172 ac knowledged the appointments and extended congratulations to both officers.

Visit us on the web! www.1rbn.com DENNIS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

LIVINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

CARDIFF VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

C a rd iff V olunteer Fire Company M arks 100 Years o f Service w ith Anniversary Coin EGG HARBOR TWP., NJ - Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company #1 will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027, honoring a century of volunteer firefighting in the town. According to department offi cials, accomplishing this milestone is the result of years of effort, leadership, and sacrifice by successive generations of members. To mark the occasion, the firm is distributing 100th an niversary challenge coins. Each coin costs $20, and all earnings go towards department oper ations such as maintenance, utility expenditures, and training. Residents and supporters are encouraged to visit the firehouse on Thursday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. to purchase a coin or take a tour of the station. The firehouse is at 6609 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township.

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

LIVINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Dog Dies in L ivin g sto n S tru c tu re F ire

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY #1 INC.

WAYNE, NJ — January 4 — In remembrance of former Chief William "Butts" Butler of Company 5, the Community Volunteer Fire Company #1, Inc. joined other fire departments in Wayne Township to honor Butler's 61 years of service and his enduring contribution to the local fire service. Butler was well-known for his consistent leadership, encouragement of training, and dedication to teamwork throughout township companies throughout his tenure. Firefighters reported that his leadership shaped operations, cooperation, and mentoring during community events and responses. Butler was respected by the Wayne fire community, as seen by the gathering. His commitment set an example for both present and future members, according to fire officials.

LIVINGSTON, NJ - On December 21, 2025, a residential building fire on Mount Pleasant Avenue was reported by Livingston Fire Department units. There were reports of a potential trapped occupant and severe fire conditions on the second and third stories when first-arriving companies arrived. In order to ensure that every resident had left be fore they arrived, Engine Company 5 advanced a handline and carried out a primary search. Later, a family dog was discovered dead. Interior staff were evacuated and activi ties momentarily switched to defensive master streams as the top level fire conditions deteriorated. Firefighters re-en tered the building and began inside operations once there was enough knockdown. Before the fire was contained, Liv ingston and mutual help organizations worked for around two hours.

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March, 2026

IN SERVICE I f y o u h a v e p h o t o s y o u w o u l d lik e to s e e in o u r In S e r v i c e feature, p le a s e u p lo a d th e m o n o u r w e b s it e w w w . 1s tR e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m o r e m a il th e m to L i n d s e y @ l s t R e s p o n d e r N e w s . c o m .

On January 8th, the North Arlington FD placed their 2025 Seagrave/Marauder Engine 1 in to service with a good old fashioned push in, and retired their old one. The truck is equipped with a top-mount Hale Qmax 2000-GPM pump and 750-gallon water tank.

NEW PROVIDENCE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

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NEW PROVIDENCE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

F ire fig h te rs H onored w ith C la ss 1 V a lo r A w a rd s in N ew P ro v id e n c e NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ - On Tuesday, January 6th, members of the New Providence Volunteer Fire Department attended the Borough Re-Organization meeting, where fire officers and hose company officers were properly sworn in for the upcoming year. The event acknowledged the department's ongoing dedication to service and preparedness and sig naled the official beginning of leadership positions for 2026. Firefighters Daniel Nelson and William "Bill" Vignali re ceived Class 1 Valor Awards from Chief Signorello during the meeting. The medals honored their efforts to save lives during a flash flood on July 14, 2025.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

VEHICLES FROM NEW EGYPT

Located in Plumstead Township (Ocean County), New Egypt is a small unincorporated community o f about 3,000 population. It is about foursquare-miles at the intersection of Ocean, Burlington and Monmouth counties. It is a close knit community which features the New Egypt Speed way, antique shops and the New Egypt Flea Market located in nearby Cream Ridge, to name a few attractions. The New Egypt Fire Department was or ganized in 1901 and presently operates out o f one station with a career staff five days a week during the day. The Plumstead Township EMS operates out of the same station 24 hours. In the photos is Engine 39, a 1998 Pierce Saber pumper, Rescue 39, a 2005 Pierce Saber Encore rescue pumper, Tank 3918, a 2025 Spartan ER Metro Star pumper tanker, the former Tank 3918, a 2001 International/KME pumper tanker (formerly from the Fol som Fire Department which had been disbanded several years ago) and Lad der 3915, a 2001 Pierce Quantum quint. The Plumstead Township EMS ambulances are A-304, a 2019 Ford Transit 250/AEV Trauma Hawk and A306, a 2020 Ford F-450 under a 2010 P.L. Custom Medallion module. There are two other apparatus that will be featured in future Little Big Guys fea tures. One is a brush truck and the other is a track truck. The track truck is taken to the speedway by volunteers when it is open. It responds to emer gencies at the track. We wish to also mention that a mural that belonged to a tanker that they once owned is on display in their gym. It was a beautiful 1994 Peterbilt/Saulsbury 3500-gallon tanker with a mural depicting a pyra mid and camel, hence New Egypt. It was a hit at whatever fire apparatus pa rade it went to. As fate would have it, one day it was responding to a call when a driver from a parked car opened the driver door, causing the tanker driver to veer away. In doing so, he lost control o f the apparatus and rolled over, splitting the tank and dumping the contents which flowed down the street. Before we get to apparatus news, we have learned through social media that the Whitesville Fire Company in Jackson Township (Ocean County) has dis banded due to the lack o f volunteers. In apparatus news, Ridgefield Park (Bergen County) has received their EONE Metro HR 100 rear-mount aerial on a Cyclone chassis. Sea Bright (Monmouth County) has ordered an EONE Typhoon pumper with Cummins X10,450 hp diesel engine, 58-inch flat roof, eight seat cab, Hale Qmax 1500gpm pump, booster reel, low hose bed, rear discharges and short wheelbase, Woolwich FC (Gloucester County) has ordered an E-ONE Typhoon LTH 100foot aerial and Lumberton (Burlington County) has received a Typhoon rescue pumper. Specs include a 67.5 inch cab with 16-inch vista roof, Cummins X12, 500 hp diesel engine, Hale Qmax 2,000-gpm pump, 780-gallon water tank, electric deck gun, 150-foot booster reel, aluminum body with full height and depth compartments on Please send any comments or news tidbits you might have about Apparatus o f the Month to us at 1st Responder News, 1Ard more Street. New Windsor, NY 12553. O r you can e-mail them to Apparatus@lstResponderNews.com.

APPARATUS OF THE MONTH A look at what's new with apparatus around the state with John Malecky

JOHN M. MALECKY

New Egypt X-Tank 3918, 2001 International 2674/KME 1250/3000 with two kw Honda portable generator. It formerly served Folsom.

M. MALECKY

New Egypt E-3911, 1998 Pierce Saber 1500/1000 with 7.5 kw gen erator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services. JOHN M. MALECKY

Plumstead Twp. EMS, A-304, 2019 Ford Transit 250/AEV TraumaHawk. It was sold by VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists.

M. MALECKY

New Egypt Rescue 39, 2005 Pierce Saber Encore 300/300 and 30 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Plumstead Twp. EMS, A-306, 2020 Ford E-450/2020 P.L. Custom Medallion. It was sold by New Jersey Emergency Vehicles.

M. MALECKY

New Egypt Tank-3918, 2025 Spartan ER Metro Star 2000/3000. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC. ADAM ALOERTI

both sides, front and rear receiver points, upper hose body side tie offs Fire Tech scene lighting and an FRC 360 camera. Fire & Safety Services has delivered the following Pierce apparatus: to the Highland Lakes FC in Vernon Township (Sussex County) a Saber dry side tanker, and to Totowa (Passaic County) an Enforcer pumper. Campbell Supply Co., LLC is prepping the following apparatus for deliv ery: for Weymouth Township Fire

District 1, Dorothy FC (Atlantic County) a KME rescue pumper with Freightliner 108SD 4 door chassis, Hale Qmax 1500-gpm pump and 1250-gallon water tank; for the Bor ough of Englishtown Fire District 1 (Monmouth County), a Spartan ER Extreme Duty pumper with Metro Star MFD chassis, 10-inch raised roof cab, Waterous CMU two-stage 1500-gpm pump and 750-gallon water tank; for the City of Bayonne (Hudson County) a Spartan ER Extreme Duty pumper

New Egypt L-3915, 2002 Pierce Quantum, 1500/400 with 75-foot aerial. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services. with Metro Star MFD chassis, 10-inch raised roof cab, Waterous CMU twostage 1500-gpm pump and 750-gallon water tank, and for Middlesex County a Ford F-550 Super Duty 4x4, tow ve hicle with two-door cab, 24-inch tan dem axle enclosed goose neck trailer for USAR team, Amdor roll up com partment doors, Honda 7 kw generator, Hannay electric reels and Whelen

scene lighting. They have received an order from the Gibbstown FD in Greenwich Township (Gloucester County) for a KME Severe Service custom pumper with LFD chassis, 16inch raised roof cab, Cummins L10, 450 hp diesel engine, Hale Qmax-XS, 1500-gpm single-stage pump, 750-gallon poly water tank and Flex stainless steel body.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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March, 2026

AC TIO N 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.

TODD HOLLRITT

S n o w p lo w C a tc h e s F ire in W o o d la n d P a rk D uring S to rm WOODLAND PARK, NJ - Some of the heaviest snow fell in northern New Jersey at the end of January, where several communities picked up more than a foot of snow. West Pa terson Fire Dept. Engine 3 responded into the storm for a snowplow on fire, January 31st. The members made quick work of a well-involved engine compartment blaze.

RON JEFFERS

Port Authority Lincoln Tunnel Bridge & Tunnel Agents and North Hudson Regional fire companies responded to a car fire on I. 495, located under the Hudson Avenue bridge in Union City, January 24th. The fire caused I. 495 Eastbound traffic, leading to the tunnel, to be closed, causing a back up as far as Secaucus.

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

RILL TOMPKINS - WWW.RTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Bergenfield firefighters made quick work of a van fire on Saturday, January 31st. The approximately 1:00 PM blaze put up a large column of black smoke and was fully involved on arrival of fire units. The fire was quickly knocked down with no injuries reported.

CLOSTER VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Closter Volunteer Fire Department held an evening training class on the usage of breathing oxygen packs and fundamental Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) techniques on January 27th. The purpose of the refresher course was to strengthen fundamental abilities utilized in interior fire operations.

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March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

FIREFIGHTER PROFILES I f y o u r departm ent has p h otos y o u w o u ld like to se e in ou r “Firefighter P rofiles”feature, p lea se u ploa d them o n our w ebsite, m v w .lstR e sp on d e rN e w s.com o r em ail them to L in d sey @ lstR e sp on d e r N e w s.com

DAMIEH DAHIS

C ar Dow n E m ban km ent on R t 8 0 in S ad dle B ro o k

CHATHAM BOROUGH VOL FIRE DEPT. ASSOC.

CHATHAM, NJ - John Baldwin received the 2025 Captain's Award from the Chatham Borough Volunteer Fire Department Association in recognition of his dedication and devotion over the year. Baldwin re sponded to almost all of the 346 calls the department has handled thus far, recording the highest re sponse total in the department. A member who consistently exhibits availability, dependability, and commitment to emergency response is given the Captain's Award. Baldwin demonstrated a great dedi cation to responding to calls and assisting other firefighters during emergencies in his response record.

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SADDLE BROOK, NJ - An SUV plunged down an embank ment on Route 80 west after the driver lost control of the ve hicle on the afternoon of January 16th. Shortly after 12:30 p.m., NJ State Police and Saddle Brook fire companies ar rived to the area just after Exit 63 and found an SUV went off the road and landed on the bank of the Saddle River. The driver got out with no serious injuries. Firefighters discon nected the vehicle's battery, then Bergen Brookside Towing hoisted the SUV out. State Police are investigating.

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 53

March, 2026

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

UNION FIRE COMPANY #1 MIKE NOWACKI

The Bradley Beach Fire Department recently put into service Engine 88-76, a 2001 Sutphen Monarch 2000/750/30 engine. It formerly served Broughton Fire Department located in Allegheny County, PA. The engine will retain the former department's unique blue color scheme.

M ultiple Units Operate at Deptford Dwelling Fire DEPTFORD TWP., NJ - A suspected home fire in Deptford Township's Blackwood Terrace neigh borhood prompted the dispatch of District 9 units on January 24th. When Engine 933 arrived first, Lieutenant McMahon upgraded the assignment to a functional fire box after noticing smoke coming from the house. Engine 933 launched an inside assault and extended a handline. After arriving second due, Engine 931 advanced a second handline off Engine 933 and installed a five-inch supply line to the nearest hydrant. In order to support internal activities, Ladder Tower 926 came and carried out roof ventilation. Hurffville Road provided a backup water supply for Engine 934. In around 45 minutes, the fire was contained. Union Fire Company #1 was in charge of operations. The Deptford Fire Marshal's Office is looking into the cause of the fire.

Enjoy taking photographs? Get th e m ost o u t o f your hobby. MIKE NOWACKI

Glen Gardner Fire Company No.1 located in Hunterdon County re cently put into service Wagon 12, a 1991 Pierce Lance/2015 Firematic Refurb 1500/1000 engine. It formerly served Buchanan Engine Company No.1, located in Westchester County, NY.

1st Responder News compensates correspondents fo r th e ir a rticle & photograph submissions.

Read m ore a rtic le s fro m around New Jersey on our w e b s ite ! w w w .1 rb n .co m

C o n ta ct Lindsey TODAY fo r m ore in fo rm a tio n ! Lindsev@1 stresnondernews. com

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PAGE 54

March, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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PAGE 55

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

WHITING FIRE COMPANY STA. 33

Whiting Firefighters Control UTV Fire on Congasia Road WHITING, NJ - On January 7th, Station 33 o f Whiting Fire Company was called to a utility ter rain vehicle fire on Congasia Road. When Chief 3300 arrived first, they verified that there was only one UTV fire and that everyone inside had been safely evacuated. Soon after. Engines 3301 and 3311 arrived and set up a P/i-inch assault line that swiftly put out the fire and stopped it from spreading into the surrounding brush. Along with Whiting Fire Police operating utility units 3327 and 3337, who helped with scene control and

Jump t o f ile #012426119

m safety. Assistant Chief 3310 also ar rived on the site. After completing suppression efforts, firefighters looked for any dangers in the vicinrty. The Manchester Police Depart ment was tasked with investigating the incident after the situation was secured.

- COURTESY OF WHITING FIRE CO.STA. 33

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

Half-Century of Service Recognized in Middletown Twp. MIDDLETOWN, NJ - Two long-time members of the Middletown Township Fire Department were honored for their 50 years of community service. After 50 years of service to the people of Belford and Middletown, Bill Hibell of Company 7 in Belford received a Key to the City. Hibell continues to be involved in Company 7 while training younger members. He has held almost every position within the organization, including Chief of Department in 2004. John Drucker of Middletown Fire Company No. 1, Station 8, was also honored by fire officials for reaching the same 50-year milestone and still serving at the departmental level. According to department of ficials, both individuals represent a lengthy history of dedication, expertise, and service within the Middletown fire community.

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March, 2026

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