VOLUME 11, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes MARCH 2017
- Fire News photo by Ken Badger Full story on page 6
Fire News Welcomes Everyone to the Long Island Mega Show at SCCC in Brentwood Visit Us in Booth BB
– New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, March 2017, Page 3
In this issue... Cape May House Fire Three people, rescued by police, are injured in a preChristmas fire. See story on page 10
Partial Ejection in Cologne A rollover requires a lift-andcrib operation to extricate a pinned person. See story on page 16
Knapp Avenue House Fire A house fire requires and hard fight and an extensive overhaul. See story on page 21
EMSCNJ Installation The EMS Council of New Jersey installs its 2017 officers. See story on page 29
Up Close and Personal A closer look at responders from around New Jersey. See story on pages 39-41
Obituaries: Ex-Chief Alfred Stewart Ex-Chief Adrian Birdsall See stories on page 42
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 36 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 38 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 40
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor 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, EVELYN ALOISIO 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 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 286-6866 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: nj@firenews.com
Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
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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 Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
A PIO is A Must Let’s face it, the public has always been interested in what is going on in their community. When they see or hear fire apparatus going through the community, the residents we serve become curious and want to know what is happening. I am sure that if you returned home and found a police car parked in front of your neighbor’s house, you, too, would want to know what’s up. Yes, there is a need and an obligation for information to be preented to the public. Believe it or not, the PIO is part of the Incident Command System (ICS) command staff and reports directly to the incident commander (IC). The assignment of being your departments PIO is not a simple task and not limited to calls. During a call, the PIO may have to establish, develop and maintain contact with media, professional and civic organizations and other special interest groups to promote agency programs. The PIO prepares, edits, coordinates and distributes news releases. On the flip side, the PIO is responsible to develop special educational and promotional materials for presentation at exhibits, fairs, festivals, conferences and schools. They can also help conduct tours of
your fire department. The PIO can also serve as the photographer for an agency. Keep in mind the military has been documenting activities since the mid 1800s and continue to do this today. There are photographs of the Fire Department of the City of New York that also date back to the 1800s. Many other fire and law enforcement agencies have documented their history from their formation. If your department isn’t documenting your departments activities, ask yourself why. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other forms of social media are tools that your department can use to its benefit. For instance, if you have a major incident and want to get the word out that roads are closed in an area, utilizing social media will let the public know that they need to use alternate routes. This cuts down on the traffic flow to a blocked area. How about your department community events? Get the word out to your community through social media that your local firehouse will be open for Fire Prevention Day. Department PIOs should build a positive relation with local newspapers and TV and
radio stations. Let the public know what you do 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When they have a question for your department, do they know who to ask to get factual information? As for Fire News, send us your stories and photographs so other departments see what you do. You can submit stories and photographs to us through a link at www.FireNews.com. Or you can send them directly to me through e-mail. Each of the six editions of Fire News has an e-mail address listed on page 3. Two to four photographs should be accompanied by a short write up about your event. If you have questions regarding how to submit stories, e-mail me at LI@FireNews.com. Be proud of what you do and let your community and the fire service know about it. Dennis
Announcements WOMEN IN THE FIRE SERVICE Do you know a young woman who is interested in the fire service? Introduce her to Fire Service Women of New York State (FSWNYS) Phoenix Firecamp. Phoenix is a remarkable training opportunity offered to young women from 14- to 19-years old. The weeklong sleepover camp is held in conjunction with Utica Fire Department in Utica, NY, and operates both hands-on and classroom instruction. The dates for FSWNYS' Phoenix Firecamp 2017 are July 16-21, 2017. More information and applications for Phoenix Firecamp are posted on the website www.fswnys.org or call 845-309-1325.
(USFA). Recently, Congressman Pascrell introduced H.R. 5123, the Honoring Emergency Response Officers Benefits Reform Act. The legislation is intended to improve the timeliness and transparency of Public Safety Officers' Benefits (PSOB) program's death, disability and education claims.
FLANDERS BLOOD DRIVE
Firefighters and emergency medical personnel of the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad will hold a blood drive at the Flanders firehouse, 27 Main Street, Flanders, from 1400 to 2000 on February 23, 2017. The drive will help replenish blood supplies after the holidays. The blood drive will be conducted by CONGRESSMAN Community Blood Services, which supplies BILL PASCRELL, JR., local and area hospitals with blood and blood products. NAMED 2016 CFSI Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and The Congressional Fire Services Institute are in generally good health may donate blood (CFSI) is proud to announce that Congressman in New Jersey. To get more information or make Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-9) has been selected as the a reservation call 201-251-3703. 2016 CFSI Legislator of the Year. Throughout his distinguished career in ST. BALDRICK’S AND THE Congress, Congressman Pascrell has been a leading advocate for the nation's fire and emerVINELAND KEG & EGGS & gency services. The current chairman of the SHAVE TO CONQUER Congressional Fire Services Caucus, On March 18, 2017, Vineland Firefighters Congressman Pascrell has been a staunch advocate for a number of federal fire service pro- Kegs and Eggs and Shave to Conquer will be grams, including the Assistance to Firefighters held from 0700 to 1200 at the North Italy (FIRE) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Benevolent Association, 414 Virano Lane in Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs, Vineland. John Moriarity of Collings Lake Atlantic as well as the United States Fire Administration
Station 12-3 will be participating in the St. Baldrick’s event for his 10th year. Both efforts are St. Baldrick’s Day fundraisers with the proceeds going to fight childhood cancer. Moriarity’s fundraising page is: www.stbaldricks.org/participants/JMoriarity201 7. The Vineland fundraising page is: www.stbaldricks.org/events/mypage/8161/201.
FARRELL FUND SPONSORSHIP TO ATTEND ART OF FIREMENSHIP DAYS The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund will be sponsoring two (2) firefighters to attend the Art of Firemenship Days in Harrisburg, PA on May 19 and 20, 2017. Hotel included. A typed letter must be sent to 510 Grumman Road West, Bethpage, NY 11714, by March 20, 2017 (No Exceptions!). Letter must include: Name of Department, Rank, and why they deserve to be chosen.
DOES YOUR DEPARTMENT HAVE A PIO? Fire News is compiling a list of department Public Information Officers. If your department has a PIO, please send Fire News the PIO’s name, department and contact information. E-mail us at LI@FireNews.com. Thank you for your help.- Ed
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Fire News, March 2017, Page 5
Good Luck All Around in W. Caldwell Plane Crash
On January 21, 2017, radios across Western Essex County went off for reports of a plane crash behind Patton Drive in West Caldwell. Within minutes, West Essex First Aid Squad, West Caldwell Fire and Fairfield Fire responded. Units arrived to find a small aircraft down in the back yard of a residential home, so close pieces of the plane actually pierced the backyard fence. Just blocks from the airport, the pilot experienced an engine failure resulting in the plane
barely hitting the home behind which it crashed and then burst into flames. Miraculously, the pilot was able to be pulled out of the plane by residents and was transported to St. Joseph’s Paterson with burns and a broken leg. Units from Nutley HazMat operated on scene with local police departments, and Essex County Sheriffs. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Cover Story
House Fire Draws a Crowd
The volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded to Somers Point-Mays Landing Road on January 5, 2017, for a report of a structure fire. Scullville Assistant Chief Vernon Cruz arrived to find the homeowner trying to re-enter the home in an effort to save his dog. A/C Cruz attempted to enter the home while police restrained the homeowner. The dog was later found dead in the upstairs of the home. Scullville Chief Steven Prisament arrived and established command and requested a water tender from Mays Landing, and then requested a second alarm, bringing Cardiff, Farmington and West Atlantic City, along with
one engine from the City of Somers Point. Crews darkened down the fire quickly, but the extent of damage and the cold temperatures prolonged the overhaul. Apparatus had to go into Mays Landing to refill as this was the nearest hydrant. Also responding were Marmora, Egg Harbor Township Police, EHT Ambulance, EHT Chief of Department, Atlanticare EMS, Mays Landing EMS, Atlantic City Electric Company, and — with a big tip of the helmet to — the Ladies Auxiliaries and the neighbors who supplied the firefighters with hot coffee and refreshments. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
2-Alarmer in Rutherford
On December 21, 2016, the Rutherford Fire Department responded to Jackson Avenue for a fire. While units were responding, dispatch received a second call for heavy smoke coming from one of the apartments. Upon arrival, companies had visible fire venting out a window, and a second alarm was struck bringing companies from Wellington, East Rutherford, Lyndhurst and North Arlington. Companies made an aggressive attack and were able to knock down the fire within 20 minutes. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Might Want to Get that Cleaned Next Time
The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing, Laureldale and Cologne were dispatched to Old Harding Highway for a structure fire. Mays Landing Chief Lou Demartine arrived and established command for a fire in a chimney that was attached to a woodstove that had been installed inside the fireplace. Command had Cologne firefighters ladder the roof where they found a build up of creosote so hard they had to use a pike pole to break it up. Mays Landing firefighters went inside to remove the appliance to access the chimney from the inside while other firefighters dug out the soot from the exterior clean out. Laureldale firefighters extinguished the embers as they were brought out and checked under the house for extension - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Cologne Condo Fire
On December 23, 2016, the volunteer fire companies of Cologne, Mays Landing and Laureldale responded to Evergreen Court for a heavy smell of smoke in a unit at the Woodlands Condominium Complex. Cologne Chief Shawn Valluri arrived and established command and could not find a fire, so he had police and EMS proceed to knock on adjacent units to alert occupants and look for a source of the fire. EMS personnel located the fire. Command had first arriving Cologne Engine 1854 begin knocking down the fire. During the primary search, the chief heard a squeal and the fire-
fighters doing the search discovered a dog and cat inside pet cages, which were removed and provided with oxygen. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control with firefighters checking all exposures for extension, along with overhaul. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Also responding were Hamilton Township Rescue Squad, Hamilton Township Police, Hamilton Township Fire Investigator, and Hamilton Township Detectives. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Cape May House Fire
On December 23, 2016, the Cape May Fire Department was alerted for a working fire on Delaware Avenue. Station 51, Station 59 Coast Guard and Station 57 West Cape May responded. While en route dispatch notified responding units of people still in the house. Cape May Police arrived on scene and assisted the occupants out. Cape May and Coast Guard on-duty crews arrived and placed two lines in service, knocking the fire down and searching the home. The three occupants of the house were taken to Cape Regional Medical Center for evaluation. Cape May County Fire Marshals, Cape May Police Detectives and New Jersey Division of Fire Safety are investigating the fire. - Fire News photos by Robert Newkirk
FDIC Speaker David Woods
David Woods is a professor in the Integrated Systems Engineering Division of The Ohio State University. He has worked to improve systems safety in high-risk settings for more than 35 years. On Wednesday, April 26, 2017, from 1330 to1515, Woods will be presenting “Resiliencein-Action: Proactive Safety in a Changing World� in Room Sagamore 3-4-5. Failure is due to brittle systems, not human error. Systems operate successfully due to sources of resilience, usually hidden or underappreciated. Explaining accidents as due to an error by a person hides the operation of the systemic factors that create brittleness and undermine resilience. Breakdowns in learning lead organizations to miss signals that operations are becoming more brittle as relentless production pressure erodes the capabilities that provide resilience in the face of surprises. Learning about resilience-in-action highlights how people in various roles anticipate bottlenecks ahead, act to fill gaps, and are able to stretch system performance in the face of smaller and larger surprises. Analyses of dramatic failures of complex systems, such as the Columbia space shuttle accident, highlight this pattern and the need for proactive safety.
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Rutherford MVA
Fire News, March 2017, Page 11
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On December 16, 2016, the Rutherford Fire Department was dispatched to Rutherford and Delafield Avenues for a reported MVA with entrapment. Companies arrived to find a two cars involved with no entrapment. Engine 4 stayed on scene to assist with clean up. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Newark Structure Fire On December 20, 2016, the Newark Fire Department responded to Victoria Street for reports of smoke coming from a building. Companies arrived to the old fire department motor shop with a heavy fire condition showing in the former offices. Companies needed to force entry and a second alarm was struck, bringing additional companies to assist. The fire was brought under control within an hour. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Garage Fire with Extension
A Not So Quiet Sunday
Units responded to a reported dwelling fire in Riverside on December 27, 2016. The first arriving chief reported a detached garage on fire with extension to two dwellings and requested a second alarm. Units operated five handlines. The bravo exposure suffered radiant heat damage. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
A quiet December 11, 2016, got busy when a maintenance worker for the Eagle Rock Village Apartment complex called police to report they responded to a fire alarm and when they opened the apartment they saw smoke. The dispatcher alerted Budd Lake Fire. Car 51 arrived quickly and reported a fire in the living room and requested a second alarm box. Car 50 and 52 along with Engine 53 and Ladder 58 arrived and one line was stretched up to the second floor apartment and the fire was quickly extinguished. Tower 96 assisted Ladder 58 with ventilation. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney
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HVAC Smoker in Clifton
On December 6, 2016, the Clifton Fire Department responded to Route 3 west for a possible structure fire. Reports were coming in of smoke coming from the building. Companies found a smoke condition coming from the vents of the European Wax Center and proceeded to the roof to check the HVAC system where a problem was found. The unit was shut down. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
E. Orange 2-Alarm
On January 3, 2017, the East Orange Fire Department responded to South Munn Avenue for an activated fire alarm. Engine 5 arrived to heavy fire showing from two balconies. Car 3 arrived and struck a second alarm bringing Bloomfield, Irvington and South Orange to the scene. Companies were able to knock down heavy fire with high-rise packs as the fire was mostly confined to the exterior of the building. A special request was put in for Bell and Siren Rehab to respond due to the cold temperatures. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Grant Street Chimney Fire On January 19, 2017, the Linden Fire Department’s A Shift responded to a report of smoke from a house on the 200 block of Grant Street in Linden. Engine 3 arrived to smoke coming from around the chimney area with the home’s occupants already out. Crews quickly pulled lines in an attempt to knock down the visible fire. It wasn’t until the walls and roof were opened around the chimney that the fire was placed under control. The American Red Cross responded for two displaced residents. Mutual aid came from Elizabeth, Rahway and Cranford to cover. - Fire News photo by Mathew Pribish
Fast Work in Paterson On January 10, 2017, Paterson Fire Department Tour 1 responded to Market Street for a possible fire. On arrival, E-3 reported a moderate smoke condition in a single-story industrial building and stretched a line. All hands went to work for a small fire in the middle of the building which was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Hasbrouck Heights Fire On January 23, 2017, the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department responded to Boulevard for a reported smoke condition, units arrived on scene and declared a second alarm, as companies found fire in the attic of a garden apartment. An engine and rescue from Walling and a Lodi truck responded on mutual aid. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Morris County Bathroom Fire On December 26, 2016, Washington Township fire companies were dispatched to Ruth Lane for a report of a bathroom fire. Chief 2 arrived and instructed the first-due engine to stretch a line just as Hackettstown pulled in and went to work opening the roof as fire started showing. Crews had the fire knocked down within a half-hour and contained the fire to the bathroom area. Long Valley, Fairmount, Schoolye’s Mountain and Tri County also worked the scene, and Budd Lake provided RIT. Long Valley First Aid and the Washington Township Police also assisted. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney
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Partial Ejection in Cologne MVA
Cologne and Laureldale, along with the township’s EMS and police, were dispatched on January 5, 2017, to Wrangleboro Road for an MVA. Cologne Assistant Chief Paul Gramm arrived and established command with a single vehicle overturned and one occupant partially ejected. Command special called Pomona for their heavy rescue. The occupant’s lower extremities were protruding out the
passenger side with the vehicle resting on them as the A post collapsed and the roof came down, pinning the person. EMS and firefighters stabilized the vehicle. Rescuers then performed a ‘lift and crib’ procedure and quickly extricated the trapped occupant, who was then transported to the local trauma center. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Evesham Twp. All-Hands On December 31, 2016, Taskforce 22 was alerted for a house fire, with the caller reporting a possible kitchen fire. Units arrived and confirmed a stove on fire extending into the microwave above. Command placed all hands in service. Engine 2212 stretched a handline and quickly knocked down the fire. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Millville Multi-Family Fire Firefighters from the City of Millville in Cumberland County responded on December 20, 2016, to N. 3rd Street for a report of a structure fire. Command was established by Chief Michael Lippincott with smoke showing from a two-story, wood frame, multi-family structure. Command ordered Millville Engine 34 to place a line in service through the first floor door on the C side, as the fire was located on the ground floor. A working box was requested by Lippincott, recalling all city firefighters. A second alarm was then requested, bringing Vineland Station 2, Station 29, the Rosenhayn Volunteer Fire Company and Station 39, the Downe Township Volunteer Fire Department. The fire took an hour to bring under control, and the Red Cross was requested due to large number of occupants displaced. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Tuckahoe Rd. Fire Draws a Crowd
The volunteer fire companies of Estell Manor City (Sta. 12-5), Dorothy Fire and Rescue (Sta. 12-7, Squad 12-7), Milmay (Sta. 124), and Mays Landing (Sta. 18-1) responded on December 24, 2016, to Tuckahoe Road for a report of a structure fire. Estell Manor Chief Brian Johnson arrived and established command with heavy smoke showing from a two-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling set back from the roadway. Estell Manor Engine 1253 laid an LDH up the driveway to be fed by Estell Manor Tender 1258 from the road. The first-due Dorothy engine pulled two handlines and laddered the roof to begin ventilation. Command then request-
ed a FAST from Tuckahoe and began requesting additional water tenders from the surrounding communities. To fill the incoming water tenders, a second Dorothy engine set up a draft and fill site at the Dorothy fire station. Laureldale was special called to cover Dorothy, but was diverted to the scene for its water supply. The fire was brought under control within an hour and an extensive overhaul was required. Also responding were: Minotola, Landisville, East Vineland, Mizpah, Cumberland, Richland, Laureldale, Belleplain, the New Jersey State Police and Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Knapp Ave. Fire On December 23, 2016, Clifton firefighters responded to Knapp Avenue for a reported house fire. The first-due engine reported heavy smoke in the area quickly followed by the report of a working fire in a two-story frame with fire showing from the attic. The truck company opened the roof and an aggressive attack was made. Several lines were put into operation. The main body of fire was knocked down within 30 minutes and, after extensive overhaul and opening up, the fire was placed under control. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Page 22, Fire News, March 2017
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3-Alarm in Passaic On January 7, 2017, following the first significant snow storm of the year, the Passaic Fire Department responded to Bond Street for a house fire in an unoccupied 2-1/2 story frame dwelling. Heavy fire was discovered in the basement extending into the first floor, and a second alarm was requested. At around the 20-minute mark, companies reported still having heavy fire in the basement and fire now burning through the first floor. Command ordered the evacuation of the building and requested a third alarm. With wind chill factors in the single digits, T-1 placed their elevated stream into operation into the attic as additional companies opened up the exterior walls exposing the fire. After knocking down all visible fire, firefighters re-entered the building and extinguished numerous hot spots. The fire was placed under control in about two hours and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Paterson 2-Alarmer
On December 22, 2016, Paterson Fire Dispatch transmitted a box for a possible building fire on Broadway. Upon arrival, Battalion 3 reported heavy fire showing from the second floor of a large 2-1/2 story frame with possible entrapment and exposure problems. A second alarm was requested. Lines were stretched to the seat of the fire as the trucks and rescue conducted searches and vented the
roof. With three lines stretched and operating, companies made good progress and had the main body of fire knocked down in 20 minutes. Searches proved to be negative and the fire was placed under control in just over an hour. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Cologne Car Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne and Laureldale responded to Wrangleboro Road in front of the Babies-R-Us store for a report of a car fire. Township of Hamilton Police arrived on location and reported smoke showing. Cologne Engine 1854 arrived and its crew stretched a preconnected foam line to the fire and began knocking
it down. Laureldale firefighters arrived and began using forcible entry tools to gain access to the engine compartment, removing the hood for better extinguishment. No other vehicles were damaged, and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Hilron Street 3-Alarm
On January 13, 2017, the Clifton Fire Department responded to Hilton Street for a house fire. Ladder 3 arrived and confirmed the working fire, followed by 8-2 arriving to strike the second alarm. Companies made an aggressive attack and were able to contain the majority of the fire to the basement; a third alarm was struck for additional man power. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Elmwood Park Comm’l Blaze
On January 8, 2017, the Elmwood Park Fire Department responded to activated fire alarms on Boulevard in a large L-shaped, singlestory commercial building housing several businesses. With temperatures in the low teens, companies gained entry and while investigating found heavy smoke in the rear of the building. Command requested a second alarm. As a water supply was established, a 21/2 inch attack line was stretched and the truck crew went to the
roof for ventilation, firefighters discovered fire in the C/D corner, which had extended into the roof. The sprinkler system was shut down in order to allow better access to the fire area. An additional line was stretched to the roof as companies opened up from both the interior and the exterior. A third alarm was requested for cover and, after extensive overhaul, the fire was placed under control. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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ACFA Memorial Service
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association held their 93rd Annual Memorial Service at the Egg Harbor City Fire Department on January 18, 2017, with Association President Amor ‘Skip’ Portale presiding and Howard Berchtold, Jr., being re-appointed Executive Chairman. The bell was tolled for the members that answered their final alarm by Committeeman James Garth, Sr.,
and remarks were given by invited guests and elected officials. President Portale presented outgoing committeeman Rick Coraluzzo a plaque thanking him for his years of service, which was accepted by Chairman Berchtold on behalf of past-committeeman Coraluzzo who could not attend. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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EMSCNJ Installs Officers for 2017
With assistance from two state legislators, EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) officers recited their oaths of office for 2017 on January 15, 2017, at the Middlesex County Fire Academy. Senator Bob Smith (D-Dist. 17) and Assemblywoman Nancy J. Pinkin (D-Dist. 18) were on hand to administer the oaths to several of the officers. The executive board members, all incumbents, include: President Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. (Neptune); Northern Area Vice President Cyndy Reardon (Bloomingdale); Central Area Vice President John Butterweck (Morganville); Southern Area Vice President Phil Wien
(Maple Shade); Treasurer Ken Weinberg (Pittstown); Assistant Treasurer Leroy Gunzelman (Somerville); Council Secretary Barbara Platt (New Egypt); Membership Secretary Sue Meyer (Berkeley Heights). The 21 district vice presidents for 2017 include: District 1 - Anthony Murtha (Spring Lake); District 2 - Kari Phair (Springfield); District 3 - John Tymon (Ridgefield Park); District 4 - Ernest Bubier (Salem); District 5 Marylyn Kampo (Somerset); District 6 Barbara Flowers (East Hanover); District 8 Karen Johansen (Morristown); District 9 Steve Kurs (East Windsor); District 10 - Andie
Hutchins (Phillipsburg); District 11 - Paul Kennedy (Keansburg); District 12 - Edna Deacon (Mine Hill); District 13 - Eric Rudd (Belvidere); District 14 - Alfred Low-Beer (Kendall Park); District 15 - James Ambro (Nutley); District 16 - Kim Iadanza (Tinton Falls); District 17 - Mary Claire Shiber (Wayne); District 18 - Alison Wallin (Demarest); District 20 - Vikki Castellano (Oakland); District 22 - Rich Litton (Moorestown); District 23 - James McAlister (Freehold; District 24 - Tarcisio Nunes (Lyndhurst). - Fire News photos by Sylvie Mulvaney
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Hammonton Christmas Parade
The City of Hammonton Fire Department in Atlantic County held Hammonton. Hammonton Councilman and volunteer firefighter their annual Christmas parade on December 10, 2016. President Mickey Pullia said the parade, “… was about the kids, Santa Claus Donald Trump’s campaign manager Kellyanne Conway served as on a firetruck, and a cup of hot cocoa.” - Fire News photos by Ken Badger Grand Marshall. Ms. Conway’s high school hometown is
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Fire House Kitchen By Ray Cooney If you enjoyed last month’s article, then you will love this one. The winner of the Cooked and Uncorked event I wrote about last month, was the Paterson (New Jersey) Fire Department. To recap, Cooked and Uncorked was a cooking competition between 20 fire departments and 20 restaurants in New Jersey. There were three different competition categories: Fire Department vs. Restaurant, Gourmet Food and Overall Best Dish Patterson Fire Department won in best overall dish category. They made pork belly tacos that were to die for! Being one of the judges at the event, I promised that I would cook, with the winner, on an upcoming episode of Firehouse Kitchen. Flash forward, I jumped in my car, went over the George Washington Bridge and pulled into the Patterson Fire Department. I was greeted by Firefighters Oates, McCones, Jeltema and Duffy. These guys were classic firemen, hence no first names! I was referred to as Cooney. Being a New York City firefighter and having worked in a busy firehouse Ladder 127 in Jamaica, Queens - I thought I was ‘salty.’ Only, Patterson does almost 4000 fire calls a year and 36000 EMS runs (throughout their department). Hence, I wasn’t as ‘salty’ as I thought. On to the pork belly tacos! First, we baked the pork bellies in the oven and then seared them on the grill. When they were finished, we
sliced and sliced and sliced. I don’t even want to know how much pork I ate before we even got to the tacos! The meat was so delicious, I was eating as I was slicing. I was taken back by the use of pineapple in the recipe. Firefighter McCone referred to it as his pineapple mojo sauce. It really brought out the flavor of the sauce. The Patterson firefighters were very welcoming and made me feel like one of their own. The night ended with me going to Duffy’s Bar, with Firefighter Duffy (yes, it’s his bar!).
You know you have really hospitable firemen when they wouldn’t let me buy them a drink. So thanks Mike, Sean, Jason and Ken … for a great episode with great food.
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Neighbors Helping Neighbors
It’s a Family Tradition!
Members of the Richland Volunteer Fire Company (VFC), Station 12-1, were recognized by the Buena Vista Township Committee for distributing 32 jackets to needy children and adults from throughout the township. The Helping People effort is spearheaded by the fire company and they are assisted by two churches in the township, Abundant Living Church in Newtonville, and the First Baptist Church of Richland. (Left to right): John Armoto, BVT Committee (Richland VFC); Anthony Monfredo, Sr., President, Richland VFC; A. J. Levari, Captain, Richland VFC President and Fire Commissioner; 1st District Commissioner Ronald Grattini, Vice President and Lieutenant, Richland VFC; Reverend David Mallory, First Baptist Church of Richland; Reverend Kenneth Albert, Abundant Living Church of Newtonville. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
(Left to right): Gerry Smithson, Jr.; Gerry Smithson, Sr.; and Chris Smithson. Gerry Jr. serves on the New Milford Fire Department Company 2, while Gerry Sr. and Chris serve on the Northvale Fire Department. - Fire News photo by J.P. Fortunato
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Old Tappan Officers Sworn Mayor John Kramer administers the oath of office to Lieutenant Yhu, Captain Kutzin and Lieutenants Morgan and Naylis; Chief Keil holds the Bible. - Fire News photo by Debby Cooke
Tabernacle Gets New Truck Mayor Stephen Lee IV breaks a champagne bottle over Tabernacle Township Fire Department’s new truck, christening Rescue 43. - Fire News photo by Tom Walker
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Building a Wall The East Vineland Volunteer Fire Company constructed a mock up for a ‘Pittsburgh Drill’ for training with their SCBA. The purpose of the drill is to train firefighters in full PPE and SCBA to egress through a stud wall cavity for escape, search and rescue, etc. Shown constructing the wall are (left to right): Firefighters Jon Cooper, Derek Santiago, Joe Lorito and Josh Cooper. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Hammonton Donates 10 Cases of Holiday Hams The Hammonton Independent Volunteer Fire Company Station 2 presented 10 cases of hams to the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry of Hammonton. The hams were distributed to local families for the holidays. - Fire News photo by Joseph Lizza
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Northfield’s AC Lauren Crooks Retires
The City of Northfield Fire Department’s Assistant Chief Lauren Crooks called it a career on December 31, 2016, and was honored by his friends, colleagues, co-workers, and fellow firefighters at a gala dinner held at the Atlantic City Country Club in Northfield on December 30. Assistant Chief Crooks was presented plaques by Chief Bruce Cummings joined by Deputy Chief Scott Goodman (far left), and Assistant Chief Eric Shenkus (far right) then by Retired Chief Hank Martinelli, Retired Assistant Chief Edward Hackett, and Retired Deputy Chief Robert Leeds. Asst. Chief Crooks began his
career with the Northfield Fire Department in 1991 and throughout his career held many certifications such as fire investigator, fire instructor, and Fire Official, as well as EMS certifications which are still held. “Instructing the newer generations of firefighters has been a crowning personal achievement during my career. For retirement I will continue to work as a paramedic for Atlanticare and as a fire instructor for the Atlantic County Firefighter’s Association and for the Atlantic County Fire Academy, enjoy more family time and travel,” said Crooks. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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ASI FIRE/RESCUE APPAREL ACQUIRES THE AWARD SHOPPE ASI Sportswear has acquired “The Award Shoppe,” originally located on Route 112 in Medford, NY. With 34 years of experience producing plaques, awards, and trophies, ASI sees the acquisition of “The Award Shoppe” as a perfect fit with its growing business. Award plaques are the perfect way to show appreciation to firefighters, EMS personnel, and others. Letting someone know their hard work is appreciated helps to build morale in the workplace and character and commitment in the individual. Trophies are also a great way to boost morale and encourage teamwork. We have a large selection of plaques, awards and trophies on display in our newly designed showroom. We can also custom design and manufacture an award or plaque to fit your needs. Our staff will be happy to assist you in selecting and engraving something special according to your vision, and the purpose of the recognition. All our trophies, plaques and medals will meet your event needs and be completed on time. For 35 years, ASI Fire/Rescue Apparel has been a proven leader in providing the highest quality of custom designed products for the fire service. Three years ago we introduced ASI Decals with great interest and success and we are ready to do the same with ASI Plaques/Trophies Feel free to stop by and visit our showroom or contact Ex-Chief Bob Kutch to arrange for an appointment to discuss your needs. We are located at 460 Waverly Ave., Patchogue, NY; 631-242-8400; www.asiwear.com.
ULTRA BRIGHT LIGHTZ 10TH ANNIVERSARY Ultra Bright Lightz is proud to announce we have just celebrated our 10-year anniversary! We would like to thank all of our loyal customers for sticking with us throughout the years for all of their emergency vehicle lighting needs. Our recent rapid sales growth has been our greatest accomplishment and we cannot wait to see where the future of our company takes us. We have transformed from a business ran by just the owner into a business with many employees in a 5,000square-foot warehouse.
It is humbling and rewarding to be able to provide jobs to our dedicated, knowledgeable staff and to soon provide many more jobs as we continue to grow. The warehouse we moved into just last year has allowed us to keep many lights in different color combinations in stock to get orders out as quickly as possible to our customers. It has also given us the space to have a showroom where customers can see all of our lights in action in order to make the right choice for their vehicle needs.
PHIL GERACE NAMED AS TFT’S NEW VP OF MARKETING
Following an exhaustive nationwide talent search, Philip Gerace, former KME Director of Sales and Marketing, has been named as Task Force Tips’ new Vice-President of Marketing, and will be based at the company’s worldwide headquarters in Valparaiso, Indiana. “This is one of those opportunities I couldn’t pass up, because TFT is a rare company that values its employees, takes great pride in the quality products it produces, and goes out of its way to serve those who serve,” Gerace explains. “In the business world, you often come across those who say one thing and end up doing another as they grow. That isn’t true of TFT; this is a homegrown company that has maintained and built on the values they’ve had ever since the day the company started.” Many in the industry know Gerace from his years of service on the Fire Apparatus Manufacturer’s Association (FAMA) Board of Directors, which culminated in his serving as its president in 2015. The Penn State alum’s professional credits, tied with 12 years of service as a volunteer firefighter, earned him invitations to write for
a variety of industry publications, including Fire Rescue 1, Fire Chief, International Firefighter and Fire Apparatus and Emergency Equipment. As with his earlier position at KME, Gerace sees himself first and foremost as a team member, “because if you’re part of the team, then you serve a critical role,” he explained. “A team can always develop more than an individual who is left by his or herself.” He added that TFT is unique in that its marketing department is “self-sufficient,” boasting everything from a state-of-the-art printing and banner production facilities, to having its own in-house staff of seasoned print, digital, and marketing professionals. “By not having to outsource, we have a better control over our quality, can customize projects for our dealers and customers, are better equipped to handle last minute changes, and in the end provide a sleek, professional product to serve those who serve,” he said. “We not only embrace change - we anticipate it and prepare for that point in time that it will inevitably surface.”
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Up Close & Personal
North Hudson Battalion Chief Morrison at a five-alarm furniture store fire in North Bergen on December 21, 2016. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Somers Point Fire Department members (from left): Lieutenant Rob Blaine, and Firefighters Don Dunleavy and Dan Ravese after spreading holiday cheer by taking Santa for a ride around town on the engine. - Fire News photo by Carl Crossman
Jim Smith is the new Chief of the Ocean City Fire Department in Cape May County following the retirement of Chris Bruenig. - Fire News photo by Dennis C.Sharpe
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Up Close & Personal
Delran Firefighter Kait Gunson at a December 27, 2016, two-alarmer. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
Kim, mom Carol, and Dana Swartz. Kim and Dana are the granddaughters of Harold ‘Whitey’ Swartz and they are every bit as good as photographers as their grandfather and father, Bob Swartz. Kim photographed the installation dinner for the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company and Dana has set up Farmington’s website and the slide show for the dinner with her own photos (and used my camera to photograph me getting my awards the fire company!). - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
City of Vineland Fire Chief Robert Pagnani went deer hunting with the 5 Points Gun Club and bagged a buck. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Up Close & Personal
Timothy Rice of the Hackensack Fire Department and his son Timothy ‘TJ’ Rice, Jr., teaching TJ’s class about fire prevention. Tim is also a 20-year member of the Paramus Volunteer Fire Department, Company #4. - Fire News photo courtesy of Regina Rice
Justin Watrel, Lieutenant Valente, incoming-Captain Tim Moots and Chief Angelo Roccamo getting ready for the Hasbrouk Heights Annual Santa Around Town event. - Fire News photo courtesy of Justin Watrel
Rick Smith is the new chief of the Galloway Township Fire Department in Atlantic County. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Obituaries
Ex-Chief Alfred Stewart
Ex-Chief Alfred ‘Freddy’ Stewart passed away doing what he loved. While doing firematic duties in the firehouse, he suffered a health complication and unfortunately passed away. The State of New Jersey and the Fallen Firefighters Foundation out of Maryland ruled that Freddy’s passing would be considered an LODD. Freddy served as Fire Commissioner for many years. He was a member of the Fire Prevention Unit as a fire inspector and he was also an active member of West Milford Fire Department Station 6, with over 50 years of service to the community of West Milford and surrounding areas. Freddy was a mentor to many of the members of the department and his work in the community will never be forgotten. Firefighters from all over attended the wake and funeral service. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Ex-Chief Adrian Birdsall
Ex-Chief Adrian Birdsall served on the West Milford Fire Department for 50-plus years. Adrian was a past Chief and held various ranks in the association. He also was a borough employee and several years before his retirement from the department of public works, he was made superintendent of the Department of Public Works for the Township of West Milford. Some of the greatest memories of Adrian were after every call, he would hang up his gear, walk back to everyone and pull a black comb out of his wallet and comb his hair. Adrian also told us a story about when he was younger and first joined the fire department, he kept his bicycle out on the side porch of his parents’ house and when he would hear there was a fire call, he would get on his bike and ride to the fire house. One day his mother locked the screen door to the porch and Adrian drove his bike through the door. Adrian was loved by everybody in both the fire department and ambulance corp. Hero’s get remembered but legends never die. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton