VOLUME 13, NO. 8
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes JANUARY 2019
Full story on page 8 - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Happy & Safe New Year From The Staff At Fire News – New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 3
In this issue... Evesham All-Hands House Fire A kitchen fire extends into the attic of a middle-of-the-row dwelling. See story on page 10
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor
Once Again in Paterson 3rd Battalion firefighters take on a fire in a three-story mill building once again. See story on page 14
21 Injured at Farmington Car-into-Building Two people are seriously injured and 19 less seriously when a car plows into a Social Security Office. See story on page 18
Tractor Trailer Goes Off Byram Bridge A tractor trailer goes off a Route 80 overpass onto Waterloo Road in Byram Township. See story on page 21
Elevator Rescue Training North Bergen Mutual Aid Association holds a three-day seminar on elevator rescue. See story on page 30
Derailment Drill in Elberon Multiple agencies take part in a train derailment exercise at the Elberon train station. See story on page 32
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page26 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 30 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Michael J. Coppola, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
2019; A Year to Recommit As life seems to move by faster and faster, it is hard to believe that 2019 has arrived. A few days ago, I sat back and gave thought to some of the concerns I have about the fire service. Response has become an issue for many volunteer fire departments. The worst thing you can do is to ignore staffing and response issues. Urban, suburban and rural demands for response are all different. However, in the end, the oath we took to protect life, property and the environment is what matters. The time has come for you, the department member, to reevaluate your oath and ask yourself if you are truly committed to living up to what you are expected to do as a volunteer firefighter. I know we are living in complicated times. Members are challenged to find the time to constantly train, maintain equipment, meet their recommended Best Practices for Fire Department Training Programs, and respond to a required amount of calls. You must understand that for many, being a volunteer firefighter is like having a second or third full-time job. I compliment those of you who have put their hand up to become part of the volunteer fire service. Thank you for finding the time to do an outstanding job of raising a family, work your job, and still volunteer as first responders in your community. The reality is
that the number of volunteer firefighters is dropping. In New York State the number of volunteer responders has dropped from 110,000 in 1990 to 84,000 by 2010, mirroring national trends. Thanks to various state organizations, efforts have been made to recruit and retain new members. Visit FASNY.com and look at their RecruitNY program. One of the problems with new recruits is that they soon realize their heart is in the right place, but the reality of meeting today’s rigorous training schedule may not be as easy as it appeared when they signed up to become part of the your department. There are approximately 1,160,400 firefighters serving in 27,198 fire departments nationwide and responding to emergencies from 58,150 fire stations. Of those firefighters, 30 percent were career firefighters and 70 percent were volunteers. As the number of calls increases each year, departments are giving thought to combination departments. Many departments have met their EMS needs by having paid crews available 24hours a day, seven-days a week. Yet, departments still have to be creative to answer multiple EMS calls that happen when the paid crew is not available. In 2019, I ask that all volunteer first
responders give thought to their dedication and commitment to the communities that they serve. Being a first responder is not a joke and requires that you take your job seriously. Whether you live in an area that has a full-time paid fire department, a combination department or an all-volunteer fire department, the job is the same. In 2019, take the time to recommit yourself to protecting the life and property of the people you serve, along with protecting our environment. Have a safe, healthy and happy new year! Dennis
LODD: Green Knoll’s Michael Galay On November 21, 2018, Green Knoll Firefighter Michael ‘Jerry’ Galay, 71, responded to smoke and a fire alarm activation at an office building. He returned from the incident and proceeded to assist several firefighters at Station 1 with the arrival of a new engine company. Firefighter Galay then went home, where, on the morning of November 22, his wife of 37 years, Joan, attempted to wake him and found him unresponsive. EMS responded, ALS and CPR was administered and Firefighter Galay was transported to the hospital where he
died a short time later. He served 12 years with Green Knoll and was previously a Firefighter and past-Chief in Olyphant, Pennsylvania. Michael designed and managed a multi-state data centers for Thomson Financial. Michael and team rebuilt the Manhattan data center in Newark within one week of its destruction on 9/11. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Green Knoll Fire Company #1, PO Box 6004, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.
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Bayview Collapse The volunteer fire companies of Bayview and Oceanville responded to East Elm Avenue on September 24, 2018, for a reported structure fire. Bayview Assistant Chief Scott Winneberger, requested City of Absecon, and the remaining Galloway Township Fire Companies of Germania, Pomona, South Egg Harbor and the City of Port Republic. Units arrived to a heavily involved two-story, wood frame, singlefamily dwelling. Bayview Engine 2646 stretched a line and a Blitz Fire, Engine 2663 grabbed a nearby hydrant and laid a five-inch line, as did Absecon, to supply the Oceanville ladder which had their main in service. The attic of the structure had a tremendous fire load that collapsed into the second floor but command, with Oceanville Chief Mooney as Operations on the A side, kept firefighters at a safe distance while using hose streams. Due to the amount of fire and the long hose lays, a decision was made to augment the scene with water tenders from Oceanville and Port Republic. Firefighters actually made quick work of the fire, but the overhaul of the attic load was the most time consuming and used the most water. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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DĂŠjĂ vu in Paterson
Just before 0300 on October 2, 2018, Paterson Fire units were dispatched to East 27th Street for a possible fire. Some of the units assigned were just taking up from another alarm and could see a glow in the sky while en route. Units arrived to a building heavily involved. Due exposure concerns a second alarm was requested.
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The building was a vacant 2-1/2 story frame which had been the scene of another second alarm in August 2017. A good portion of the roof had been burned off by the previous fire. Several handlines and a tower ladder were put into service and quickly knocked down the bulk of the fire. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Cover Story
Millville MVA Ruptures Gas Line, Starts House Fire The City of Millville Fire Department responded to Buck Street on November 28, 2018, at approximately 1440 hours for a report of a vehicle which had struck a building. Firefighters arrived to find a pickup into the side of a multi-story wood frame building of multiple occupancy with heavy fire showing. Command struck a second alarm, bringing mutual aid from the area. Three ladders were used to fight the fire along with numerous handlines. Responding were City of Millville, City of Vineland Ladder 2, Rosen-hayn, Laurel Lake and Gouldtown (coverage), Millville EMS, Millville Police, Cumberland County Fire Police, Cumberland County Fire Coor-dinator. Also assisting at the scene was the Downe Township Fire Department. The vehicle that struck the building was struck by another vehicle, which then struck the building and ruptured the gas meter. - Fire News photos by Dennis C Sharpe and Ken Badger
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West Atlantic City Fire The West Atlantic City Volunteer Fire Company responded to Black Horse Pike on October 27, 2018, for a report of a structure fire. West Atlantic City Chief Wallace Bakley arrived and requested apparatus from Farmington and Cardiff. West Atlantic City Engine 1552 arrived and and its crew made short work of the fire. The mutual aid companies assisted in overhauling. Also responding were EHT Police, EHT Ambulance, and N.J. DOT who assisted with traffic control. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Long Lay in Oceanville The volunteer fire companies of Oceanville and Bayview responded to Chesire Drive in the Society Hill Development of The Oak at Galloway on October 1, 2018, for an investigation of smoke coming from the front of the building. Oceanville Assistant Chief Chuck Uhl established command and reported smoke coming from the C side of a middle-of-the-row unit and had Oceanville Engine 26-14 lay in 1000 feet of five-inch hose from a hydrant. Command requested mutual aid from Pomona and the City of Absecon (coverage). Engine 26-14 stretched a handline to the front door, and then A/C Uhl transferred command to Oceanville Chief John Mooney, and Uhl went in with the first crew and did a primary search. The fire was contained to the second floor with the remainder of the structure suffering heat and smoke damage. One firefighter was transported to the local hospital where he was treated and released. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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All-Hands Dwelling Fire On October 24, 2018, District 22 units were alerted to a reported kitchen fire in the Barton Run section of Evesham. FM22 (Freedman) arrived to smoke showing from the roof and requested an all-hands be struck. Chief Bittenbender reported a kitchen fire had extended into the attic of a two-story middle-of-the-row dwelling. The fire was brought under control quickly by units from Evesham and Medford. Crews successfully removed multiple pets from the home including a 19-year-old gecko ‌ which tried to sell crews insurance. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Quick Work in Bergenfield
On September 2, 2018, the Bergenfield Fire Department was dispatched for a fire on East Clinton Avenue. Companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the delta side of the home and heavy smoke pushing from the roof. A second alarm was quickly requested for mutual aid. Lines were advanced into the home, the roof was ventilated and the bulk of the fire was knocked down in approximately 15 minutes. Due to high temperatures and humidity command requested a third alarm for manpower. The fire was brought under control in an hour, and the cause was determined to be electrical. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
3 Displaced by Millville 2-Alarmer
On September 27, 2018, the City of Millville Fire Department dispatched Engine 34, Ladder 32, Rescue 34, Station 30 (all call) and Chief Michael Lippincott to North Street for a structure fire. Chief Lippincott arrived to a 2-1/2 story wood frame with heavy smoke and fire showing and upgraded the call to a second alarm, which brought Station 30 paid recall, City of Vineland Ladder 2, Rosenhayne Engine 2901, Downe Township Rescue 39, Inspira EMS and Millville Police, with Station 13 Laurel Lake to cover. Crews deployed three handlines and opened the roof. Vineland Ladder 2 laddered the Bravo side and assisted in overhaul. The residence suffered severe fire damage to a second-floor bedroom with extension into soffits, walls and kneewall on the third floor along with smoke and water damage to the first floor. Two adults and a child were displaced. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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No Cup of Tea at Teaneck Blaze On September 3, 2018, the Teaneck Fire Department responded to Griggs Avenue for a house fire. Companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the first floor of a 2-1/2 story frame dwelling. A second alarm was requested bringing all Teaneck companies along with an engine from Englewood and a ladder from Hackensack, and additional mutual aid for cover. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down on the first floor, but the fire had already gotten into the walls and was in the attic and second floor. High heat and humidity took a toll on the firefighters as they tried to get an upper hand, but due to the older construction of the home, the fire continued to spread through voids and concealed spaces of the attic. A third alarm was requested bringing Ridgefield Park, Bogota, Bergenfield and Hackensack MSU. The fire appeared to have started in the kitchen on the first floor. Several firefighters were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Once Again in Paterson In the early morning of October 26, 2018, companies from the Paterson Fire Department 3rd Battalion were dispatched to Paterson Street for a fire in a three-story mill building which was well known, having been the scene of several other fires. Battalion 3 reported fire on all three floors. Deputy Chief Calamita requested the Passaic County hazmat team to respond for chemicals stored in and around the building, as well as in exposure D. He requested a second alarm with all companies going defensive, before the fire was brought under control. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Quick Stop in Scullville
The volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded to Dover Avenue on November 10, 2018, for a structure fire. A member of the Scullville Fire Police radioed dispatch there was smoke showing from a distance. Scullville Chief Steven Prisament requested RIT from City of Somers Point and had Scullville Ladder
1535 stretch two lines to the front of the single-story wood frame. Bargaintown Tanker 1528, grabbed a nearby hydrant and fed Ladder 1535 through an LDH supply line. The fire was quickly knocked down, and crews ventilated and opened up the structure to remove smoke from the attic. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Tilton Terrace Trailer Fire November 18, 2018, the volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Farmington responded to the Tilton Terrace Mobile Home Park on Tilton Road for a report of a dwelling fire. Cardiff Chief Gil Zonge established command and requested a water tender from the nearby Atlantic City Airport Fire Department. Cardiff Engine 1516 pulled two lines, one to begin knocking down the fire, the second to cool propane tanks located in the rear of the structure. They were assisted by Farmington Engine 1543. The Airport Fire Department and the City of Somers Point Fire Department provided RIT, Farmington Engine 1544 provided scene lighting, Air Unit 1546 filled empty SCBA, and Cardiff Rescue 1517 provided warmth for several children. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe and Ken Badger
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21 Injured in Car into Building in Farmington The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff, along with EHT Ambulance and EHT Police responded on November 13, 2018, to the Social Security Building on Doughty Road in the Farmington section of the township for a car into a building. Dispatch confirmed that there was a car into the building with possibly 15 injured. EHT Dispatch requested ALS, two additional BLS and the MAV bus from AtlantiCare. EMTs Flora Phillips and Lexi Falivene reported multiple people injured including possibly two trauma. They also requested a fire department response because of structural integrity and to gain control of the utilities. EHT EMS Director Bill Higbee requested an EMS Strike Team to the scene and established the EMS branch. Responding fire apparatus consisted of Farmington 1546, a confined space /technical rescue unit, Cardiff Rescue 1517 with extrication equipment and Rescue 1527 from Bargaintown. As the incident wore down there were 21 patients treated and transported to various facilities. This included two patients classified as trauma and the rest as walking wounded. All of the patients were transported to the AtlantiCare City and Mainland campuses. Numerous agencies provided mutual aid to the incident, including but not limited to Egg Harbor Township EMS, Police and the Farmington, Cardiff and Bargaintown Fire Companies. AtlantiCare Medics 8 and 10 along with Chief 3201, 3202, Supervisor 3200, South Region Planner Deb Bell, the MAV bus and several BLS units. Other BLS units responding included, Tricare, Galloway, Absecon, Atlantic City International Airport and Hamilton Township. A second EMS Strike Team was requested and staged at the Walmart in Egg Harbor Township to cover the local communities. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger; EHT EMS Chief Wm. Higbee contributed greatly to this article.
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Jersey City 4-Alarmer On October 21, 2018, the Jersey City Fire Department responded to a building fire on Summit Avenue. First arriving companies reported a working fire on the firstfloor rear of a three-story frame. An additional two engines and a truck were requested to the scene, quickly followed by a full second alarm. Numerous lines were stretched into the building as the trucks searched and vented the roof. The companies on the roof reported that the fire had extended into the cockloft at which time a third alarm was transmitted. With numerous lines operating and fire reported on all floors, a fourth alarm was requested for manpower. Eight lines were put into operation and companies made good progress stopping the blaze. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Truck Off Bridge in Byram
The Byram Fire Department was recently requested to Route 80 in Byram Township at mile marker 22.4 for a multiple vehicle MVA with entrapment. Byram Chief 1 requested Budd Lake, Allamuchy and Green Township. A tractor trailer went off the bridge of an overpass, landing on Waterloo Road. Picatinny HazMat and Budd Lake Fire’s Tactical Support 55 were requested for the large fluid spill.
Two areas were worked: one crew securing traffic and the rear of the trailer, while a second crew on Waterloo Road secured the fluid leak and the cab of the truck. Two people from the tractor were transported. Byram Fire remained on scene till the truck was removed. There were no other cars involved and no other injuries. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney
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Car Fire Extends in West Caldwell
On November 6, 2018, the West Caldwell Police Department was dispatched to a residence on Passaic Avenue for a reported vehicle striking a house. While en route, dispatch advised the vehicle was reported to be on fire. On arrival a minivan was found fully involved and extending to
the house. Along with West Caldwell Fire Department, Roseland, Essex Fells, Caldwell, and Fairfield assisted on scene. Fire spread throughout the home and companies responded back later on in the day to extinguish rekindling hotspots. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Colts Neck Arson, Murders On November 20, 2018, a fire in a large private house was reported on Willow Brook Road in Colts Neck. At 1303 command requested a third alarm, and reported a fatality. Soon after, command sounded evac tones for all members to evacuate the building and reported four fatalities and notified the County Major Crimes unit. Mutual aid was requested from Middlesex County for tankers. Paul Caneiro, 51, was later arrested and charged with four counts of firstdegree murder, aggravated arson and weapons offenses in connection with the pre-dawn slaying of his brother Keith Caneiro, wife and their two young children, (eight and 11) at their million-dollar estate. Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni told reporters at a press conference that the motive was “financial in nature� and related to the two businesses Paul Caneiro and his brother ran in Asbury Park. - Fire News photos by Steven White
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Up Close & Personal
(Left to right): Firefighters Lawrence Fornicola and James Migliaccio, Lieutenant James Cook, and Firefighters Timothy Phillips and Ross Zotti of Long Branch Fire Department Tour 2. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Collings Lakes Chief Bill Donnelly and Weymouth Chief John Carrigan at Weymouth’s Open House on October 1, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Weymouth Open House The New Jersey State Police attended the Weymouth open house on October 1, 2018, and the trooper assigned to the detail fielded many requests from the young ladies present about becoming a State Trooper. The young ladies were told to study hard and exercise. Good advice. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Engine One Firefighters Hippen Shah, Marc Pagen and Nick Lorenzo who graduated the Bergen County Fire Academy this fall. - Fire News photo by FF Marc Nazeh
Quakertown Fire Company members Fire Marshal Rich Dziminski, President Devin Strange, past-Chief Charles Patkochis, and FF/EMT Greg Bunting pose by their new 2018 Pierce Enforcer engine that was recently delivered to the fire company. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
City of Millville Fire Department Deputy Fire Marshall Steve Alcorn working on the third Floor of Buck Street two-alarmer on November 28, 2018. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Parade for Child Cancer Survivor
Declan Hegarty, two, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia at five months and underwent a bone marrow transplant when he was eight months. After learning about Declan’s story, local fire departments worked together to honor him with a parade featuring his favorite thing in the world, firetrucks. The parade for Declan, who
lives in Lebanon Borough in Hunterdon County, began with a firetruck escort to the route. The Rally for Declan featured 159 first responder units ranging from fire trucks to EMS and police The parade concluded with the arrival of Santa in a truck. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista
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EHT 35-Year-Plus Members Honored On November 28, 2018, at the township’s Community Center, the Egg Harbor Township Committee in Atlantic County honored the firefighters of Egg Harbor Township by enshrining the names of those who served for 35 years or more on five separate plaques for each of the township’s volunteer fire companies: Cardiff, Bargaintown, Scullville, Farmington, and West Atlantic City. The plaques were the culmination of a project inspired by Egg Harbor Township Administrator Peter J. Miller and past EHTFD Chief Bill Danz, Jr. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Up Close & Personal
Scullville Safety Officer Willard ‘Bing’ Gary at the Waterfront Marina fire on October 17, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
The firefighters of Clifton FMBA Local 21 completed this year’s coat drive, the 10th year that FMBA 21 has organized a collection, and it was one of the most successful. Hundreds of coats were collected during the month of October at all six firehouses and delivered to St. Peter’s Haven in Clifton. FMBA Local 21 also runs a Toys for Tots Drive for Christmas and a Food Drive in May. (From left): St. Peter's staff Kevin Donahue, Eli Velez, Gustavo Orales. FMBA 21 members from left: Steven Turi, Patrick Tanski, Kevin Lyons. - Fire News photo courtesy of Steven Turi
The brothers of Engine One with their newly restored 80-year-old bell that has been chromed, engraved and rebuilt and ready to be mounted on its rightful place on Engine One HHFD. The brothers of Engine One want to thank Captain Tim Moots for all his hard work on the project. - Fire News story by Justin Watrel; photo by FF Marc Nazeh
Three generations of the Danz family who serve with the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company 1 in Egg Harbor Township, Atlantic County, following Bill Jr.’s (center) enshrinement on November 28, 2018, at the township community center. Flanking him on the left are son Bill III and grandson Bill IV, on right. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
EMSCNJ Names Lancaster Squad Member of the Year The EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) has named Middle Township Ambulance Corps (MTAC) EMT Faith Lancaster Squad Member of the Year. A life-long resident of Cape May and Atlantic Counties, Lancaster has been involved in EMS for 30 years. She has served in leadership roles for various squads, and even as a volunteer firefighter. She currently is serving her second term as Chief of the MTAC. She also is a junior and cadet advisor for the MTAC. During her affiliations with four volunteer EMS squads over the years, Lancaster is credited with delivering 13 babies. “When the Woodstown Ambulance Squad's building and vehicles were destroyed by fire, Faith was the first one to organize and deliver donated equipment and supplies 73 miles away to help them get started again,” said Phyllis Linn, Lancaster’s friend of 30 years and fellow MTAC member who nominated her for the award. “Wherever the need is, Faith is always ready to help.” Lancaster volunteered for many years with the Miss America Pageant and Parade, and has assisted local Girl Scouts working toward their firstaid patches and with cookie sales. Despite health issues, “Faith still actively performs her squad chief duties and takes her duty nights every week,” Linn said. “Many times Faith is in the building around the clock to be available for calls.” (Left): Squad Member of the Year Faith Lancaster, left, thanks her friend of 30 years and fellow Middle Township Ambulance Corps member Phyllis Linn for nominating her for the award. - Fire News photo courtesy of Sylvie Mulvaney
City of Millville Fire Department Captain John Wettstein after he saw a dog that was thought to be deceased, while he was standing in the doorway to the burnt porch at a November 28, 2018, twoalarm fire on Buck Street. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Elevator Rescue Training On November 3, 10 and 11, the Northwest Bergen Mutual Aid Association held an elevator emergency training seminar led by Michael Dragonetti of Dragon Rescue Management. The seminar, created for trained professionals responding to stalled elevator emergencies, incorporated both awareness and operational levels of training. Ninety-four students participated in the awareness level class and 44 students participated in the operational level (hands-on training) class. Attendees acquired a skill set to safely and effectively rescue trapped occupants from stalled elevators across northwest Bergen County. - Fire News photos by Dane Policastro
2ND ANNUAL NEW YORK TACTICAL EMS CONFERENCE EXPO Featured faculty such as Lt. Colonel Stephen Rush, M.D.-USAF The 2nd Annual New York Tactical EMS Conference Expo is coming to Long Island January 5 and 6, 2019, at the Huntington Hilton ParaRescue Medical Director; Dr. Amado Alejandro Baez, MDChairman-Tactical Medicine, American College of Emergency Expo Center in Melville. The expo will bring together the best training and products in the Physicians; Dominic Marino, DVM - FBI/ATF K-9; and Dr. John Trentini, M.D., Ph.D. Special guest appearance by fields of EMS, fire and law enforcement. There is former US Army Easy Company “Band of 10,000 square feet of vendors, exhibits and public Brothers” Medic, SSG. Al Mampre. safety trade show featuring products by Quick-Clot, Who is the Conference Designed For? Armor Express, ATT Tactical, Techline The NY Tactical EMS Conference is designed Technologies, AT&T FirstNet, Safariland, North for all first responders (Fire/EMS/Law American Rescue, Rescue Essentials, and many Enforcement/RN/MD/DO/PAs/NPs/Personal more local and national names. The two-day Protective Detail/Security and others). Check out Training Conference features some of the top educathe faculty and course list at www.medicineinbad tors. The conference will also have both an NAEMT places.com/2019courses. certified 16-hour Tactical Emergency Casualty Care The NY Tactical EMS Conference was created by (TECC) Provider Course and an eight-hour Tactical Shawn Soler and Tony Emanuele, the owners of Combat Casualty Care Course (TCCC). The training Medicine in Bad Places, who are both police officers conference will feature over 25 classes with MCI inciand NAEMT instructors who travel the country teachdent debriefs, Operational Medicine and Tactical ing tactical medicine and are passionate about bringMedicine case reviews, topics and hands on scenario ing together police, fire, EMS, and hospital care and skills training. providers. Additionally, Northwell Health’s Trauma Institute Register today at tacmedexpo.com. Agency disand Center for Learning and Innovation have partnered counts available for six-plus members, contact: nytactiwith Medicine in Bad Places to create the Surgical Skills calemsexpo@gmail.com for discounts. Limited disPost-Conference Lab. Two four-hour sessions will be counts available for Medical Residents and ALS/BLS stuoffered and each session will be comprised of five skill dents, FLEOA, and state SWAT organizations. stations, include Endotracheal Intubation with Video For more information: www.tacmedexpo.com. Like us on Laryngoscopy, Supraglottic Airway Insertion, IO Insertion, Facebook: Medicine in Bad Places Facebook Page. Extremity Suturing, and Surgical Airway Insertion.
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 31
Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad Santa Run and Food Drive The Atlantic Highlands First Aid and Safety Squad marked the 20th anniversary of its annual Santa Run festivities and the 10th anniversary of its food drive to help the needy on December 3, 2018. The Santa Runs ran through December 6. Each night from 1800 and 2100, Santa and his team of AHFAS elves visited a section of the borough in a specially designed sleigh pulled by an ambulance and accompanied by a convoy of emergency vehicles. “The Santa Runs are a highlight of our year,” said AHFAS Chief Jerry Pandolfo. “To be able to mark the 20th anniversary of the event, along with the 10th of the food drive, was amazing. It seems like just yesterday we began this adventure. The response from the community grows each year and is really heartwarming.” Santa made stops along the way to pose for pictures, listen to holiday wish lists, and collect food donations for the annual food drive.
Keeping with tradition, the squad used this opportunity to collect non-perishable food items to be donated to the food pantry at the United Methodist Church. Since incorporating a food drive into the Santa Runs in 2008, the AHFAS has collected thousands of food items, store gift cards and cash that have all gone to directly help the food pantry. “Nothing brings as much joy to the Squad than the Santa Runs. The food drive has added an extra element to what was already a significant event for the AHFAS,” said Pandolfo. “To be able to use this fun outreach to help our neighbors in need during the holiday is extremely gratifying and a real honor." Santa (pictured during the 2017 run) was played by AHFAS life member and Vice-President Walter Curry - Fire News photos courtesy of Richard Huff
Page 32, Fire News, January 2019
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Derailment Drill in Elberon On November 3, 2018, the New Jersey Transit Police, Long Branch Fire Department, along with first aid squads from Long Branch, Elberon, West Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, Eatontown, Neptune and Keyport and Long Branch Police took part in a multi-agency drill at the Elberon train station simulating a train derailment response. Multiple actors were on scene taking part to simulate patients along with a box car to simulate an overturned train car, allowing crews to use struts and the truck’s aerial ladder. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 33
Bridgeton Fire Prevention It was fire prevention week around the country and school children were touring fire stations like this one in Bridgeton. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
EMSCNJ Honors Bertagni The EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) has bestowed its 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award on longtime Allentown First Aid Squad member Ruth Smith Bertagni. Her father, Alvin R. Smith, was a charter member of the squad and her mother, Caroline B. Smith, was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary before becoming a squad member. A licensed practical nurse, Bertagni also was a three-year Ladies Auxiliary member before women were allowed to join the squad in 1963. She was auxiliary vice president for many years before the group disbanded in 2012 due to lack of members. Bertagni has served in many capacities during her decades with the squad, including 15 years as Captain. She has been a First Lieutenant, Treasurer, Secretary, Cadet Advisor and remains a Squad Trustee. Although no longer an active riding member, Bertagni continues to attend all squad functions such as meetings, fundraisers, conventions and drills. (Left): Ruth Bertagni accepts the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award from EMSCNJ President Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. - Fire News photo courtesy of Sylvie Mulvaney
Page 34, Fire News, January 2019
Judson Moore (right) meets G. Keith Bryan, US Administrator (left) at the annual International Fire Chief’s Association conference in Dallas, Texas, in August 2018. Moore is past-President of the New Jersey State Fire Chief’s Association and was representing this organization at the convention. Prior to G. Keith Bryan’s presidential appointment, he was the chief of the Oklahoma City Fire Department. “It was a pleasure meeting Mr. Bryant during the convention. He is an extremely friendly person with a sincere desire to make a difference for all firefighters in Washington,” said Moore. - Fire News photo courtesy of Judson Moore
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Water-Covered Road Rescue in West AC The volunteer fire companies of West Atlantic City and Farmington responded to Black Horse Pike on November 25, 2018, for a water rescue. It was reported that an elderly female drove her vehicle into flood waters and was trapped. West Atlantic City Chief Wallace Bakely arrived and requested the township’s Technical Rescue Team, which was already responding on Farmington’s Utility 1546. Command then requested a “5 Ton” from the township police department. Upon the arrival of firefighters and rescue personnel with drysuits, it was decided to push the car out of the water and then remove the driver, who was the only passenger. Also responding were EHT EMS and EHT Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Gunson Honored for His Work Outgoing New Jersey State Fireman’s Relief Association President Frank B. Gunson III was honored at the state relief association meeting on October 27, 2018, at the new building in Wall Township. Frank was presented with a plaque that read, “In Recognition of your Outstanding performance as President and Vice President of the New Jersey State Fireman’s Association. Presented October 22, 2018 By the Officers and Executive Committee.” - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The Township of Hamilton Dive Team from Atlantic County at Weymouth’s Open House on October 1, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe